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How to Disable 1-Click Ordering on Amazon (and Avoid Surprise Charges)Learn how to disable Amazon's 1-Click ordering to avoid accidental charges like Music Unlimited subscriptions. Quick, easy guide to protect your wallet
How to Fix Shallow Paint Layer Depth in Bambu StudioLearn how to fix shallow or translucent paint layers in Bambu Studio by adjusting top shell settings. Improve color depth and get better multi-color 3D prints with this simple slicer trick
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Windows Recall: What It Is, Why Hackers Will Love It, and How to Stay SafeLearn what Windows Recall is, why it’s raising major privacy concerns, how hackers can exploit it, and how to disable or remove it. This guide covers everything you need to know about Microsoft’s new screen-tracking feature, including storage impact, local data risks, and how to stay protected on Windows 11 Copilot+ PCs.
Star Trek Fleet Command Promo Codes: Redeem Codes for Free Shards, Blueprints And ResourcesIf you're playing Star Trek Fleet Command, paying attention to and grabbing a few promo codes can give you and your fleet a serious edge. These free codes unlock everything from James T. Kirk officer shards to valuable resources like Ultra Recruit Tokens, Artifact Shards, or even full ship blueprints. Best part? They're legit, they're free, and you don't have to spend a single drop of Latinum to get ahead. This guide covers everything you need to know about Sta...
Best Apple Pay Casinos USA 2025 – Top Apple Pay SitesFind the best Apple Pay online casinos in the USA for 2025. Instantly deposit at trusted sites with secure Apple Pay transactions and fast payouts.
Aviator Betting Game Secrets: Unlock 97% RTP & Triple Your WinsUnlock the secrets of Aviator Betting Game! Learn advanced techniques, exploit 97% RTP mechanics, and discover insider tricks that pro players use to consistently win big
What is a '400 Bad Request - Request Header or Cookie Too Large' Error and How to Fix ItAt some point, you have likely encountered a '400 Bad Request - Request Header or Cookie Too Large' NGINX error. It's a pain, and it prevents you from reaching your intended destination.
Fedora 42 - It Might Be the Prettiest Linux YetFedora 42 is here, and it's one of the most exciting Linux releases in years. Packed with upgrades, it blends performance, polish, and forward-thinking tech in a way few distros can pull off. But beyond the usual improvements and package bumps, this release delivers something that's been on many Linux users' wishlists for a long time: HDR support. And yeah, it works with games too.
Swear Your Way to Better Search Results Swear Your Way to Better Search Results (No, Seriously. We Swear.)We've all been there. You type a simple question into Google or Bing, like "where can I buy socks?" — and instead of links to actual stores, you're gifted a 700-word AI-written essay that begins:"Socks are a fundamental part of daily attire. From cotton to wool, they provide both comfort and protection for your feet…"
How to Set Up an Automatic Backup Plan In a Few ClicksLosing important files because of a hard drive crash, accidental deletion, or ransomware attack is one of the worst tech nightmares. As a technician. it is awful to tell clients they have lost their data forever, especially when dealing with personal items like documents or sentimental photos. But this can all be avoided by setting up an automatic backup plan that runs in the background so you never have to worry about losing your files again... and it is easy! Below, we will walk you through the best free backup options, focusing on Windows 10 and ...
The Truth About Cheap Software Keys and Where to BuyEveryone loves a great deal, and software is no exception. Sure, there are plenty of excellent free and open-source options out there, but they don't always cover every need—especially when it comes to must-haves like Microsoft products or the latest games. That's when you start hunting for bargains. Enter cheap software keys: they're everywhere, promising premium tools like Windows, Office, and Adobe at a fraction of the price. But are they the real deal, or is there a catch? Let's break it down MajorGeeks style—straightforw...
PST Files: Keeping Your Outlook Data Organized and Running SmoothlyI get a lot of email. I also use Outlook as my email program. I have nothing against other mail apps like Thunderbird. I like Thunderbird and use it on other personal accounts. However, exporting your Outlook PST files to Thunderbird can be a pain .. so it's Outlook for me for now. That said, maintaining my Inbox can be a chore. Back in the day, it was necessary to manage mailbox space frequently. Today, with storage being cheaper and faster, PST maintenance can be put off a bit longer but can still give your Outlook a performance boost and...
Do You Need to Defragment an SSD? Understanding TRIM and SSD, NVME OptimizationMost of us are too familiar with defragmentation when it comes to maintaining storage drives. For years, defragging hard drives was a go-to solution to keep them fast and organized by placing file fragments closer to improve access speed and system performance. But the rules have changed with the rise of SSDs and the even faster NVMe drives. SSDs don't require traditional defragmentation, and doing so can theoretically reduce their lifespan. Instead, they use a maintenance command called TRIM to manage data efficiently and keep them running at ...
Desktop Slideshow Customization: How To Keep Your Backgrounds FreshAs a hobbyist photographer, I love keeping my desktop fresh by frequently swapping out images from my staggeringly large collection of photos. Whether you're like me and want to showcase your photography or just want to keep things visually interesting, Desktop Slideshow Customization is an easy way to breathe life into your workspace. Instead of being stuck with a single background, you can create a rotating slideshow of images, keeping your desktop dynamic and personalized. But why would you go through the effort to set this up? For one, it&...
What Is The Dark Web: A Beginner’s Guide To Exploring The Dark WebWe've all heard about the dark web—whispers of shady marketplaces, secret forums, and endless anonymity lurking just beneath the surface of the internet. But is the dark web the lawless Wild West everyone makes it out to be? Spoiler alert: Not exactly. Let's look into the dark web, why it exists, how to access it safely, and most importantly, how to navigate this shadowy corner of the internet without stumbling into trouble. I promise you'll leave here with all the knowledge you need to explore this part of the web like a pro — t...
Your Phone May Have Emergency Satellite Connectivity Built In and It Could Be a Lifesaver During Major StormsA friend of mine in Charlotte, NC, recently experienced the terrifying reality of a family member being stranded without communication due to widespread power outages, flooding, and damaged cell towers after Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc across the Carolinas. Increasingly destructive storms like Hurricanes Helene and Milton (Landing in Florida today with 180 MPH winds) can leave entire regions without power, internet, and cellular networks. That's where emergency satellite services come in, enabling people to communicate when traditional netw...
Google's New Dark Web Report: How to Use It To Protect Your Data and Alternatives for Non-Google UsersIs your personal information lurking on the dark web? Probably. With data breaches becoming increasingly common and larger, Google has introduced a new feature called the Dark Web Report to help you stay informed, and it is handy as hell. Below, we will walk you through how to use this tool to secure your data and explore alternative resources for those outside the Google ecosystem. What is the Dark Web? You've probably heard of the dark web. If you haven't, it's the term for the part of the internet where st...
How People Hack Your Webcam And How to Stop ItSince their inception, hackers have loved messing with people's webcams, whether for spying, blackmailing, or just causing chaos. Now, what used to be an add-on device is a place and—frankly —a necessity for remote work, making Webcams a much more accessible target. Gaining unauthorized access to a webcam, often called ''camfecting,'' is unfortunately easier than many realize, but it's not as simple as TV shows might make it seem. In reality, hackers use commonly known methods, but they usually require some level ...
Skip the Ads: A Clever Trick to Watch Youtube Ad FreeHey Geeks, Tired of those pesky YouTube ads? Here's a neat trick: add a dash in the URL, like changing youtube.com to yout-ube.com. This simple tweak removes ads, the related videos sidebar, and the comments section, giving you a cleaner viewing experience. Why does this work? YouTube-nocookie.com is an alternative domain provided by YouTube that is designed to embed videos in a more privacy-conscious manner. When you embed or a video using this domain, YouTube does not set cookies on the viewer’s device until they actually play the video. ...
How to Fix Your Number Pad Not Working on Windows 10 & 11Hey, Geeks. Have you ever tried to punch in some numbers on your keypad only to find it completely unresponsive? Here's some tips to get you sorted out. Check the Num Lock: First, let's make sure your Num Lock key is actually on. If you type like me, you could easily fat-finger the Num Lock Key. Sort of like WHEN YOU ACCIDENTALLY HIT THE CAPS LOCK KEY. :) Locate the Num Lock, or in my case the NL, key and tap it. If the little ''num'' light starts glowing again. Shout ''DOH!'' slap your forehead, a...
32-Bit versus 64-Bit Computing and Why it MattersHey there, Geeks! Have you ever been browsing through the MajorGeeks files database and saw both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of the same program listed? Wondered about the difference between 32-bit and 64-bit computing / and software? You've come to the right place.
How To Code a Space Shooter Game Using ChatGPTHey geeks! Ever wanted to create your own game but thought it was too complicated? Think again! I wanted to play around with the AI hype train and see how easy it would be to make a quick game, and I was super surprised. With a bit of HTML5 and the magic of ChatGPT, writing a game is easier than you might think. You just have to ask. I will share how I built an awesomely cheesy space shooter game without writing a single line of code myself. Full disclosure: This is my first time doing a project of this type. Although I suck at it, I do have ...
Boost Your PC Speed with ReadyBoost: How a Thumb Drive Can Enhance Your System's PerformanceReadyBoost is a feature Microsoft introduced back in 2007. This feature was designed to help improve system performance for computers with slower hard disk access times by using flash memory on a USB drive as an additional cache, which promises to boost your system's performance using something as simple as a thumb drive. Lately, ReadyBoost has been coming up in topics, likely because we are in that cycle of PC upgrades where the use may make sense again. But how effective is it really, and is it still useful?? Here, we will look at how to use ...
Solving the "This Operation Has Been Canceled Due to Restrictions" Error in OutlookAre you getting blocked by your own computer when trying to click links in Outlook? Don't Panic! The ''This operation has been canceled due to restrictions in effect on this computer'' error is common and fixable. Several possible solutions are depending on what caused the initial problem. However, whether it's your software settings, an overzealous antivirus, or deep-rooted system policies, we've got the solutions below to get you back in the link-clicking business. Set Outlook as the Default Email Client First...
How to Create a Desktop Shortcut How To Create a Desktop Shortcut - This simple process will help create a desktop shortcut when an app fails to do so for whatever reason.
Backing Up Your Data Effectively: A Geek's GuideSafeguarding your data is as critical. I have often said that data backups are slightly less important than your heartbeat. Not having a sound backup system is like giving a toddler a drum set. Eventually, it's going to cause a headache.... and probably day drinking.
Resolving Strange PC Errors: The Role of RAM in System PerformanceRAM (Random Access Memory)is a type of computer memory that is used to store data and machine code currently being used. RAM is critical to your machine because it serves as the computer's short-term memory, allowing your system to access data quickly and perform tasks efficiently. The role of RAM in system performance is fundamental and multifaceted, impacting virtually every aspect of computer operations. It allows data to be read and written quickly, in any order, typically much faster than other types of storage, such as hard disks, SSDs,...
How to Get Dark Mode Back in Google Chrome and Improve itHey Geeks, If you were like me this morning, you signed into your PC and loaded Chrome to start your day, only to find that you have been updated with the new version 121.0.6167.140 of Chrome, and all your colors, extensions, and shortcuts are gone. Your layout has been changed, and you were logged out of all your accounts. Thanks, Google! I needed this BS this morning. I had nothing better to do than deal with you rearranging my workspace, yea!
How to Fix File Explorer Search Not Working in Windows 10 or 11How to Fix File Explorer Search Not Working in Windows? Well, Don't Panic. Today, we're diving into the world of Windows troubleshooting, MajorGeeks style. We'll walk you through some nifty tips and tricks to quickly get your File Explorer Search up and running. Let's roll up our sleeves and get geeky with it.
How to Fix Excel stdole32.dib ErrorsIf you are receiving an error when you start your Microsoft Application, indicating an error with stdole32.dib, you are not alone. This file is involved in Object Linking and Embedding (OLE) operations in Microsoft Office applications. Object Linking and Embedding is a technology developed by Microsoft that allows different software applications to share and manipulate data and objects. OLE enables objects created in one application to be embedded or linked to documents in another application. Although I suspect you could encounter this error in an...
Troubleshooting Missing UEFI Firmware Settings in WindowsEver stare at your computer screen only to be met with the cryptic message UEFI Firmware Settings Missing? Don't Panic! Missing UEFI settings might sound scary, but a little knowledge can go a long way to taking the fear out of this one. First of all UEFI settings, short for Unified Extensible Firmware Interface settings. These configuration options for the low-level software initializes your computer hardware before the operating system starts. Think of it as the bridge between your hardware and your operating system...
How to Fix The Spacebar Pause / Play Not Working in YouTubeHey Geeks, With some assurance, we can assume that everyone reading this has watched something on YouTube. If so, you may have wanted to pause the video you were watching at some point. Maybe you need to take a break; you are at a spot you want to share, stop at a specific timeline reference, or attend to one of the life interruptions. But pausing happens. Most folks will use a mouse to click the play button to pause - but we keyboarders tend to use the space bar. However, the spacebar pause/restart feature has stopped working for some people.
How to Keep Your IP Address Hidden in WhatsAppWhatsApp has introduced a new privacy feature that allows you to conceal your location while making calls. This is achieved by relaying the call through WhatsApp servers and not directly connecting to the recipient's device.
How to Get the Download Shelf Back in Google Chrome - Updated January 2024How to Get the Download Shelf Back in Google Chrome - The Chrome download shelf at the bottom of the browser (as shown below) is a valuable tool for knowing when a download is finished and to 'keep' or 'discard' said download.
How to Turn On Google Chrome's Enhanced Safe Browsing FeatureI suppose the first question here is, ''What is Google Chrome's Enhanced Safe Browsing feature, and why should you turn it on?'' Google Chrome is the most popular web browser in the world, and it offers many features to enhance the Security and privacy of its users, such as blocking malicious downloads, warning about phishing sites, and encrypting web traffic. One of these features is Enhanced Safe Browsing, introduced in 2020 but not widely known about or turned on by default. Enhanced Safe Browsing is a mode you can en...
What is the AVIF Image Format?What is the AVIF format? AVIF is a relatively new image format with better compression and quality than the popular JPEG, PNG, and WebP formats. AVIF stands for AV1 Image File Format, based on the AV1 video codec developed by the https://aomedia.org/Alliance for Open Media. AVIF uses the same compression techniques as AV1, such as intra-prediction, transform coding, entropy coding, and loop filtering, to reduce the size of image files without sacrificing visual quality. AVIF supports transparency, animation, color profiles, and HDR (Unlike WebP). ...
What is a WebP Image?What is WebP, and why should you use it? WebP is a modern image format that provides superior compression and quality for web images. WebP can help you optimize your web performance and user experience. As the WEB part of the name implies, WebP is meant for web / internet-based content. Developed by Google is an image format based on the VP8 video code...
How To Fix Desktop Icons with MajorGeeks Windows TweaksAfter swapping display resolutions, my custom icons got ''stuck'' in their smaller size. Refreshing the desktop had no effect. If this happens to you, Don't Panic! There is a simple way to fix this with a click using MajorGeeks Windows Tweaks. Here's how. ...
A Geeks Guide To Getting The Most Out Of Amazon Prime Day Plus The New Invite-Only Program If you're an avid online shopper eagerly awaiting the arrival of Amazon Prime Day, here are some tips for getting the best deals and beating the masses to the items you want. Also, Amazon has launched a brand-new invite-only program that takes your Prime Day experience; we'll explain how that works below. Amazon Prime Day is a yearly event that offers exclusive deals to Prime members on a wide range of products. It started in 2015 to celebrate Amazon's 20th anniversary and has since become one of the most significant shopping events ...
How to Easily Create a Clear Clipboard Shortcut in Windows 10 and 11How To Easily Create a Clear Clipboard Shortcut in Windows 10 and 11 - If you copy and paste a ton of items, you have more than likely wound up pasting the wrong item to the wrong place; this will be for you.
Discover the Steps To Resolve Windows 11 Error Code 0x8007007 If you're struggling with Windows 11 error code 0x8007007, know you're not alone. This problem can be frustrating and challenging to resolve. Fortunately, this article may be able to help.
How To Use VLC Media Player to Trim Video ClipsHey Geeks, do you have a video that is too long or has some parts that you don't want to keep? Maybe you want to make a shorter clips for your social media reels or save some storage space. VLC media player a free and open-source program that can play, edit, and convert almost any video format. You can also trim video with it - Here's how.
How ChatGPT Can Teach You To CodeHey Geeks, do you want to learn how to code but need help knowing where to start? I have been delving into Python for curiosity, and ChatGPT may be your answer. ChatGPT is a free and easy-to-use tool that anyone can access online. All you need is a browser and an account at chatgpt.com to open your world to generative AI.
How to Prevent Edge From Loading in Start UpHow to Prevent Edge From Loading in Start Up. Edge Browser has an internal setting called Startup Boost that preloads the browser's processes in the background when you boot your device. Preloading these resources will reduce the browser';s startup time and the loading time of initial web pages. However, it will also consume system resources and affect your device's battery life. That said, if Edge isn't your primary browser - you should disable this setting. The easiest way to do this is to.....
The Differences in microSD Cards and How to Choose One for Your Device Hey Geeks! Recently I purchased a drone that required a MicroSD card for storage. I figure no big deal; I'll grab a card. However, while shopping noticed that there are different types of micro sd cards in the market, such as microSD, microSDHC, microSDXC, and microSDUC. Frankly, it had been some time since I needed to purchase a MicroSD Card, and I had no idea what those letters meant, and since I had to do the research, you get to read this.
What is Phishing?Phishing is a type of cybercrime that tricks people into giving away their personal information, passwords, bank accounts, credit card numbers, or anything useful to a criminal. Phishing usually happens through emails or websites that look like they belong to legitimate organizations but are fake and designed to steal your data, but they are also common with phone calls, text messages, and social media. For example: Typically, you receive an email from your bank warning that your account has been compromised, which is worded to scare you into c...
How to Find Your Router's IP AddressHow to Find Your Routers IP Address - We have detailed step-by-step instructions to assist you in accomplishing this task. These instructions are simple to understand and can be followed by anyone, regardless of their technical expertise.
How to Stop Microsoft Edge Sharing Visited Sites with BingMicrosoft's Edge web browser submits nearly any visited webpage to Bing automatically. The privacy issue was detected last week and reported on Reddit, and users have been scrambling ever since to find out why the browser is doing that. Microsoft Edge 112.0.1722.34 include an updated feature, Show suggestions to follow creators in Microsoft Edge, which is turned on by default. The feature is not new, but it was limited to a handful of sites, such as YouTube, in previous versions of Edge. According to the information posted, Microsoft Edge is ...
What is ChatGPT? And How to Use ItChatgpt is a web-based application released in November of 2022 by OpenAI that allows you to 'chat' with its neural network model trained on millions of conversations from various sources, like Wikipedia, bogs, etc. When you ask ChatGPT a question, it uses its knowledge of natural languages to try and und...
Internet Problems? Here's How to Tell if It's Your ISP's FaultInternet Problems? Here’s How to Tell if It’s Your ISP’s Fault
How to Turn Off Sound Effects in WindowsWindows has various sound effects that are activated when carrying out different actions. In this How To, we'll show you how to turn off (or modify) sound effects in Windows.
Are You Looking for a Fun and Easy Way to Create Ai-Generated Art? Like everyone in the tech world, I've been diving into AI and what the new tech could do to help with my world. Being a graphics-based geek by nature, AI-generated images have drawn my attention - and in some cases, blown my mind. AI-generated art is a fascinating way of using artificial intelligence to create realistic images and art from text descriptions. There has been an explosion of AI art generators available online, but the prices vary depending on the generator's quality, resolution, and features. Fees range from cost per ima...
How to Block an Unknown Number on WhatsAppHow to Block an Unknown Number on WhatsApp
Removing the McAfee Critical Virus Alert NotificationSome friends called up who were getting unwanted popups while browsing, offering to activate their McAfee urgently... But they did not have McAfee. AntiVirus / AntiMalware scans revealed nothing. They also noted the notification was repeatable when they did something with their browser that required notification, like sending a print job. After inspection, it wasn't a virus but a push notification trying to scare them into buying some junk product. Push notifications are one way of engaging and staying in touch with web and app audiences t...
How To: MPPN Ransomware RemovalMPPN malware, also known as MPPN ransomware, is a malicious software that can encrypt data on your computer or network and deny you access until a ransom is paid. MPPN ransomware is spread through email attachments, malicious links, infected websites, cracked software or drive-by downloads. In order to protect yourself from MPPN malware and others, it is important to implement a comprehensive security strategy.
How to Add the Enhancements Tab in Your Sound Settings The Enhancement Tab in your sound setting can be handy if you are an audio enthusiast or have hearing issues. You can adjust the low-frequency protection, bass boost, room enhancements, and sound equalization with it. However, after updating your Windows drivers and or versions of Windows, sometimes the tab for these options disappears. If you find yourself in this situation, https://majorgeeks.creator-spring.com/listing/major-geeks-dont-panic?product=211Don't Panic, it's an easy fix. You must open your Device Manager by right-clickin...
How to Fix Critical Process Died in Windows 10/11CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED errors are a common problem in Windows, but typically they can be fixed with a few simple steps. We'll show you how to diagnose and fix CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED errors in Windows.
How to Unlock Your PC If Hackers Have Used Lock My PCScammer Payback is a well-known Youtube channel hosted by Pierogi - who efforts justice on scumbag call centers trying to scam you out of money. In the video below, you will see how these low-lives try to impersonate GeekSquad (badly) and attempt to control a PC with Lock My PC - downloaded from MajorGeeks(@5:12)- which is intolerable. Fortunately, the makers of Lock My PC have built a way to circumvent their program and allow you to gain access if one of these lowest of low-life criminals. If you or a friend fall victim to this scam and ar...
MBR or GUID? How Should You Partition Your Drive?There are two primary partitioning schemes that can be used on a hard drive: MBR (Master Boot Record) and GPT (GUID Partition Table). So, which one should you use? The answer depends on a few factors, including the operating system you're using and the size of your hard drive. Here's a look at the pros and cons of each scheme to help you make the best decision for your needs. First, the drive partition should not be confused with the file system. The partition is the container you choose, and the file system is the method of organizin...
MajorGeeks Minute: Cleaning Your Memory with Tweaking Windows Repair (Video)My machine had a bit of a memory leak going on, which offered an opportunity to show a very useful but little-known feature of https://www.majorgeeks.com/files/details/tweaking_com_windows_repair.htmlTweaking.com Windows Repair and how / when to use it. ...
How to Protect Your Computer From the Microsoft Support Diagnostic Tool VulnerabilityMicrosoft announced a known zero-day vulnerability that could allow hackers to use custom URLs to install programs, view, change, delete data, or create new accounts.
How to Turn Microsoft Edge Secure Network VPN Service on or OffBeginning with Microsoft Edge 103.0.1255.0, Microsoft Edge will feature Microsoft Edge Secure Network.
How to Enable or Disable 'Align Icons to Grid' on Windows 10 & 11 DesktopThe Windows Desktop is something that everyone customizes differently. One such option is to allow your icons to be neatly aligned in an invisible grid to stay perfectly spaced apart.
How to Enable or Disable Pop Up Descriptions for Folder and Desktop Items in Windows 10 & 11When you hover over a file, folder, drive, or desktop item in Windows 10 & 11, you will see basic details, including size, type, date, etc. You can enable or disable popup descriptions in File Explorer options or using our registry files. ...
How to View Devices by Connection in Device ManagerOne of the developers at Microsoft made a post mentioning that people have asked him about viewing devices by connection in Device Manager.
How to Properly Uninstall Programs in Windows 10 & 11Anyone who has used Windows knows that over time your computer slows down or even becomes so unstable you have to reinstall or reset your PC. Most of these problems are because you might not be uninstalling your programs correctly.
How to Enable or Disable Aero Shake in Windows 10 & 11Aero Shake or Title bar window shake is a feature that lets you grab a Windows title bar and shake it, minimizing all other Windows. You can enable or disable Aero Shake in Windows Settings.
Is Your Windows Product Key Reusable?Windows keys can be confusing. One of the biggest questions is whether you can use your current product key and move it to another computer.
How to Create a List of Installed Programs in Windows 10 & 11Using the Command Prompt, you can print a list of all installed programs to a text file on your computer.
How to Change Folder Pictures in Windows 10 & 11Windows will show a default picture for folders in File Explorer. Depending on your settings, you might see one of 4 images in the folder or the default yellow folder. You can customize the appearance of your folders to help you find folders quickly.
How to Customize Windows Search in Windows 10 & 11Windows Search has become a very useful tool. When you use Search, you can find almost anything in Windows, including your files, Windows apps, settings, etc. Here's how to tweak Windows Search to suit your needs.
How to Enable or Disable Suggested Actions in Windows 11Beginning with Windows 11 build 25525 and in the US only, a new feature is available for Suggested Actions. Windows will make suggestions when you copy information, including the date, time, or phone number, including phone calls or creating a calendar event.
How to Make a Post Shareable on FacebookMany of us keep our Facebook accounts as private as possible, but sometimes you want to make a post shareable beyond your group of friends. If you have your account set to share your posts with friends or friends of friends, posts you make can't be shared by default. Here's how to make a post shareable.
How to Enable or Disable Modern Standby in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 & 11 can use either S3 or Modern Standby as power modes. S3 is older, so you want to use Modern Standby (S0), if available. Here's enable or disable Modern Standby.
How to Change Scrollbar Width or Height in Windows 10 & 11One cool hidden feature of Windows that shouldn't be is the ability to change the width and height of scrollbars in Windows 10 & 11.
Should You Clean Your Windows Registry?Cleaning the Windows Registry is a popular thing to do in Windows. Many people will clean their registry because they are promised a faster, more stable operating system and even the possibility of fixing errors. Let's take a look at why you shouldn't clean your registry.
How to Enable or Disable Mouse Pointer Shadows in Windows 10 & 11Windows offers thousands of possible customizations, and the mouse is something that can be heavily customized to suit your needs, although some of the settings can be hard to find. One such option is to disable or enable mouse pointer shadows.
How to Boost Bass in Windows 10 & 11You probably notice that the bass can sound tinny when listening to music, watching movies, or anything with audio. You can apply a bass booster to get more bass from your speakers or headphones.
How to Create a Safely Remove Hardware Shortcut in Windows 10 & 11Before removing a USB device, you're supposed to eject it safely, but many of us don't. Creating a shortcut simplifies the process and might even serve as a reminder to ensure you don't lose any data.
How to Play Minecraft Classic For FreeMinecraft is a wildly popular game, beginning with its origins as an indie game. It has amassed 150 million players and is now owned by Microsoft. It has evolved over the years, but you can still play the classic game for free.
How to Remove 'Map Network Drive' and 'Disconnect Network Drive' Context MenuWhen you right-click on This PC in Windows 10 or 11, you might see two options: Map network drive and Disconnect network drive. You can remove these from the Context Menu in the registry or with our registry files.
Open File Explorer To Downloads, Quick Access, or This PCFile Explorer will open to Quick Access or This PC by default. You can choose which library File Explorer opens to in Settings or even open the Downloads folder by default.
How to Add Empty Folder Context Menu in Windows 10 & 11If you find yourself deleting one or more of your folders regularly, adding a Context Menu item to empty folders in one click can be useful and a time saver.
How to Check Your Available VRAM in Windows 10 & 11Gamers and graphics designers usually need a lot of VRAM or Video RAM, and some programs and games require a minimum or recommended VRAM. Here's how you can find how much VRAM is on your video card.
How to Close Not Responding Apps in Windows 10 & 11If one of your apps has stopped responding, crashed, or frozen, you can always force the app to close so you can restart it again.
How to Free up Space in Gmail, Google Photos, and Google DriveGmail, Google Photos, and Google Drive offer a reasonable 15GB of free storage. Google also offers Storage Manager to help you find and delete extra, discarded, or large items to help you stay under your 15GB of free space.
How to Create a New Library in File Explorer in Windows 10 & 11If you use Libraries in File Explorer, you can add a custom named folder to keep and easily find any files you want.
How to Optimize Video Playback on Battery in Windows 11Windows will automatically optimize videos for battery life whenever you watch movies or videos on your laptop. If you prefer better video quality over battery life, you can change that in Settings.
How to Watch Blocked or Restricted Videos on YouTubeSometimes you can't watch a video on YouTube because it is blocked in your region. The reason can vary from country to country or if your system admin blocked YouTube access. Here's how to get around blocked YouTube videos.
How to Change Your Device Usage in Windows 11When you first set up Windows 11, you can tell Windows how you plan to use your device. If you skipped it or changed your mind, you can always choose a new Device Usage setting.
How to Enable or Disable Personal Inking and Typing in Windows 11The personal inking and typing feature in Windows 11 can offer you better suggestions and create a personal dictionary by using your handwriting information. The personal inking and typing feature is on by default in Windows 11 but can be disabled or cleared.
How to Fix Error 0xc0000022 in Windows 10 & 11Some people find that after installing the April 2022 Windows Update, they can't launch Google Chrome, Edge, and Firefox. While it only affects a small number of users, here's how to fix the problem.
How to Enable or Disable Spatial Sound in Windows 10 & 11When enabled, spatial audio allows you to experience more immersive audio in your headphones. Here's how to enable or disable Spatial Sound in Windows 10 & 11.
How to Choose Your Default Windows 10 & 11 Web Browser in One ClickChanging your default web browser used to be difficult, but Microsoft has listened and now made you can set your default web browser with one click.
How to View Your Reliability History in Windows 10 & 11The Reliability Monitor in Windows lets you view details about your computer's reliability and problem history. You can see hardware and software problems affecting your computer and address those issues for a better running PC.
How to Enable Offline Email in GmailBy enabling Gmail Offline Mode, you can read, respond to, and search your Gmail messages even when no internet connection is available. This is handy for anyone traveling or during an internet outage to catch up on your email.
How to Snooze an Email in GmailGoogle Gmail gives you the option to snooze an email, which removes the email from view until a specified time.
How to Undo or Schedule an Email in GmailWhen you send an email in Gmail, the email is sent virtually immediately. Many of us change our minds as soon as we hit send. You have the option to undo an email or schedule it for later.
The Difference Between JPG and JPEG Images ExplainedOver the years, odds are you've collected hundreds, if not thousands, of images on your computer. Most of us have a lot of JPG files. Or are they JPEG files? Is there a difference, and can you convert JPG to JPEG and vice versa?
What Is a Chipset Driver and How to Update Chipset Drivers?You may have previously heard the term chipset drivers when updating your drivers in Windows 10 & 11. What are chipset drivers, and do you need to update the drivers?
How to Change Your Local or Microsoft Account Picture in Windows 11You can change your local or Microsoft Account picture to personalize Windows 11. It's easy to do, here's how.
How to Use Contrast Themes to Make Text and Apps Easier to See in Windows 11Contrast Themes in Windows 11 can be useful for anyone with low vision or light sensitivity problems. Contrast Themes, also called high contrast mode can make Windows 11 more useable than ever if you have difficulty seeing text because of the colors. Even if you don't have vision problems, you might appreciate the appearance using Contrast Themes.
How to Disable the Firefox Download Menu Pop UpThe download menu automatically appears when you download a file with Firefox builds 97 or newer. You can disable this setting, so the download menu no longer appears.
How to Change Folder Icons or Pictures in Windows 10 & 11One often-overlooked way to improve Windows looks is to change the folder or picture icons for your folders in Windows 10 and 11.
How to Disable or Enable Recent Search History in Windows 10 & 11Windows Search uses recent search history to speed up the search results by showing you anything similar you searched for recently. You can enable or disable this feature if you want.
How to See All Signed in Users in Windows 10 & 11Both Windows 10 and 11 can show you who's signed into your computer in a few different locations. If you know who's logged in, that can be useful for security and to log out users if needed.
How to See Transcripts on Any YouTube VideoGetting a transcript of a youTube video is a handy feature if you didn't understand something or if the person went too fast, for example. It's easy to find and use the feature.
How to Get the HEVC and HEIC Extensions for Free!Playing HEVC or HEIC requires downloading the encoders from Microsoft for 99 cents. While not a bank-buster, the encoders should be included in Windows & 11 for free. After all, Microsoft keeps touting how advanced these operating systems are.
How to Open Disk Management in Windows 10 & 11Windows Disk Management is a powerful drive tool that can manage partitions, change drive letters, initialize a new hard drive, etc. Windows offers numerous ways to open Disk Management in Windows 10 & 11. Here are five ways to open Disk Management.
Add or Remove 'Look For an App in the Microsoft Store' Context Menu in Windows 11When you right-click to open a file, one option is "Choose another App" followed by "Look For an App in the Microsoft Store." you can remove "Look For an App in the Microsoft Store" to help clean up your Context Menu.
Is Kaspersky Antivirus Safe?While we're often asked about Kaspersky antivirus and if it's safe, the Ukrainian invasion by Russia has caused this question to appear in numerous forums, news articles, social media posts, and more. Here are our thoughts on Kaspersky antivirus, and it hasn't changed.
How to Change Mouse Sensitivity (Pointer Speed) in Windows 10 & 11Having the right mouse sensitivity can make using Windows a much more pleasant experience. Here's how to change your mouse sensitivity in Windows 10 or 11.
How to Turn Optimizations for Windowed Games On or Off in Windows 11Microsoft has introduced Optimization for Windows Games in Windows 11. If you're having lag or latency issues, you can try to enable or disable Optimization for Windows Games if you are playing your games in Windowed mode.
How to Disable or Enable Remember My Apps in Windows 11Remember my apps is a Windows 11 feature that remembers what apps you installed from the Microsoft Store and then allows you to restore them from your Windows 11 devices.
How to Enable Sound Check on Your iPhoneThe iPhone has a neat feature called Sound Check that attempts to "normalize" the volume of your music.
How to Turn Smart App Control On or Off in Windows 11Smart App Control is a newer feature of Windows 11 that works alongside your current security software to protect you from malicious software.
How to Enable or Disable Windows Sandbox in Windows 11Windows Sandbox allows you to run applications or programs in an isolated environment. Once you close Sandbox, all software and files are deleted and never affect Windows 11. Windows Sandbox is typically turned off by default. Here's how you can turn Windows Sandbox on or off in Windows 11.
How to Fix Print to PDF Missing in Windows 10 & 11If your Print to PDF is missing in Windows 10 or 11, here are some steps to get it back.
How to Change OEM Information and System Product Name & in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 & 11 will show you two product names known as your System Name. Here's how to change your Windows 10 & 11 system product name and OEM information in Settings > System > About.
What Is the WindowsApps Folder in Windows 10 & 11?If you found a folder on your drive named WindowsApps, you might wonder what it is for?
How to Add Hidden Items Context Menu in Windows 10 & 11Showing hidden files, folders, and drives requires quite a few steps to turn it on or off. We can add a Context Menu shortcut to simplify the process if you regularly enable or disable hidden files, folders, and drives.
How to Fix Ran Out of Video RAM or Memory ErrorsRunning out of video memory can be a frustrating problem. This tutorial will go over some of the possible solutions to these errors.
How to Enable or Disable Fullscreen Optimizations in Windows 10 & 11Microsoft, wisely, continues to improve gaming performance in Windows 11. One such optimization is Fullscreen optimizations, or FullScreen Exclusive (FSE), which was created to give the application or game you are running full control of your desktop and display.
How to Show or Hide Desktop Icons in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 & 11 uses Desktop shortcuts or icons. If you don't use Desktop icons, you can disable them easily and enjoy a clean desktop.
How to Turn Always Show Scrollbars On or Off in Windows 10 & 11By default, Windows 10 & 11 will hide scrollbars when they are not used, or the window is inactive. You can change this behavior so you always see scrollbars if you like.
How to Install Windows 11 Home or Pro Without InternetMicrosoft now requires an active internet connection to install Windows 11 Home or Pro. If you don't have an internet connection, you can bypass this requirement during setup with this trick.
How to Change the Windows 10 & 11 Wallpaper Without ActivatingIf you're using an unactivated copy of Windows 10 or 11, you can't change the wallpaper or Desktop background in Settings.
How to Recover a Hacked Facebook AccountHaving a Facebook account "hacked" is a common problem. If your account has been hacked, here's what to do and how to avoid it in the future.
How to Remove 'System Requirements Not Met' Watermark in Windows 11If Windows 11 was unsupported and you managed to install it, the geniuses at Microsoft have decided to place a watermark on your desktop that says 'System Requirements Not Met.' Here's how to remove that watermark.
How to Enable Enhanced Protection in Google ChromeGoogle Chrome offers the option to customize your browsing security using Enhanced, Standard, or No Protection modes. Here's how to enable Enhanced Protection.
How to Check Your Network Adapter Connection Speed in Windows 10 & 11If you use an ethernet connection, knowing your network adapter connection speed might be useful, especially when diagnosing or troubleshooting network issues.
How to Restart Your Graphics Driver in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 & 11 has a little-known keyboard shortcut to restart your NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel graphics card.
How to Manage Blocked People on FacebookOver time we all block people from Facebook. But, if you want to see, or manage your blocked people, here's how to do that.
How to Delete Pending Windows Updates Files in Windows 10 & 11One suggestion when diagnosing Windows Update issues is to delete the SoftwareDistribution folder. You can delete the SoftwareDistribution folder manually, reset Windows Updates, or use our batch files to delete the contents of the SoftwareDistribution folder automatically.
How to Poke Someone on FacebookRemember the Facebook poke? Some people loved it; some people hated it. The popularity (annoyance) of poking people got old in 2011, and Facebook hid it from the general view. Here's a simple trick that allows you to poke (annoy) your friends still today.
How to Send a Confidential Email in GmailGoogle Gmail offers the option to send a confidential email. The recipient will need to verify their identity to read the email, and you can also automatically have the email expire at a time of your choosing.
How to Run Google Chrome Without ExtensionsGoogle Chrome extensions can be useful but also use a lot of resources. You can create a shortcut to start Google Chrome without extension, which is handy when working, disabling a buggy extension, or whenever you need Chrome to run better.
How to Add 'Empty Recycle Bin Context Menu' in Windows 10 & 11If you frequently empty the Recycle Bin, having a Desktop Context Menu shortcut might be convenient. Here's how to add Empty Recycle Bin to your Context Menu. Also, see the similar stories at the bottom of this tutorial for other options.
How to Download Wordle and Play for FreeWordle is a viral word game that came out of nowhere and became an internet sensation, so much so that the NY Times purchased it for low seven figures (over a million dollars). We hope to see the game remain free in the future, and even better, an app for iOS and Android, but as of this writing, the future of Wordle remains in question.
How to Easily Benchmark Restart Time in Windows 10 & 11 With a VBS FileHave you ever wanted a simple way to see how long your computer takes to restart? This information can help you benchmark your computer when optimizing your startup items.
How to Turn Microsoft Defender Firewall on or Off in Windows 10 & 11Microsoft Defender Firewall is an extra layer of protection built into Windows 10 & 11 designed to protect you from malicious software, hackers, and other threats. While you might be using a hardware (router) firewall or have a third-party firewall installed, you should leave Microsoft Defender Firewall on. However, if you need to disable it temporarily, here's how.
How to Enable or Disable Clipboard History in Windows 11Windows 11 allows you to save multiple items to your clipboard. You can view your history at any time by pressing the Windows Key + V. You can also enable or disable your clipboard history.
How to Open Network Connections in Windows 10 & 11Network Connections is a useful Control Panel section that allows you to manage your network connections, including Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Virtual Machines. Here's how to access your Network Connections settings.
How to Reset Windows Update in Windows 10 & 11Problems with Windows Updates can usually be fixed by rebooting, waiting, or trying again later. Resetting Windows Updates can be complicated and require numerous steps. Here's how you can easily reset Windows Updates.
How to Fix Thumbnail Previews Not Appearing in Windows 10 & 11File Explorer shows you icons of your videos, images, and photos, often making it easier to identify what you're looking for. One common problem with File Explorer is the thumbnails not appearing.
What Does 'Pushin P' Mean?Another year and along comes some new slang for you to learn, and this one is as confusing as they come - Pushin P.
How to Enable or Disable Brave Rewards (BAT) in Brave BrowserBrave is a web browser based on the Chromium source code to give you a faster and more secure, private browsing experience. Brave now offers BAT, or Basic Attention Token, as an optional way to earn tokens (Crypto) and support content creators. Here's how to enable or disable BAT.
How to Change The Windows 10 & 11 Clock to 12 or 24 Hour FormatThe clock in Windows 10 and 11 use the 12-hour format by default, but you can change the time to the 24-hour format, also referred to as military time.
How to Remove the Shortcut Arrow Icon in Windows 10 & 11Anytime you create a shortcut, it will automatically have an arrow icon overlay. Removing the shortcut icon is something people like to have a cleaner Desktop, and it's easy to do.
How to Create a "Guest Account" on Windows 10 & 11If you'd like to share your computer with someone without giving them access to your files, you can always create a "Guest Account."
How to Add or Remove a Language in Windows 11When Windows 11 is first installed, you choose a default language. You can also add or remove a language at any time.
How to Fix Richtx32.ocx ErrorsWhen running a program that uses the Visual Basic runtimes, you might receive an error message. The most common message states, "Component 'RICHTX32.OCX' or one of its dependencies not correctly registered: a file is missing or invalid."
How to Enable or Disable Screen Edge Swipe in Windows 10 & 11If your Windows 10 or 11 device has a touchscreen, you can swipe from the edge to open notifications or Widgets. If you don't like the swipe feature, it can be disabled in the registry or Group Policy Editor.
Google Celebrates Betty White's 100th Birthday With an Easter EggGoogle is celebrating Betty Whites' 100th birthday with an Easter Egg.
How to Use System Restore in Windows 11System Protection allows users to create restore points to help them recover from problems. Here are two ways to access System Restore.
How to Find and Use Easter Eggs on Your ComputerYou might have heard about Easter Eggs in computers and wondered what all the buzz is about or how to use them?
How to Play the Hidden Dinosaur Game in Google ChromeDiscover how to play the hidden dinosaur game in Google Chrome with our step-by-step guide. It's a fun way to pass the time when your internet connection is down!
How to Add 'Create Restore Point' Context Menu in Windows 10 & 11If you like to regularly create a restore point in Windows, there are multiple steps. Another option is to add Restore Point to your Context Menu to speed up the process.
How to Enable or Disable Memory Compression in Windows 10 & 11A newer feature introduced in Windows 10 and continuing with Windows 11 is Memory Manager or MM. Windows 10 & 11 use Memory Manager by default, but you can enable or disable it.
How to Enable or Disable Compact OS in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 and Windows 11 include tools to help you use less drive space, including Compact OS, which allows you to run the operating system from compressed files. When running CompactOS, Windows update can replace or remove individual files as needed to help maintain the drive footprint size over time.
What Does Ship Mean?You might have seen people use the slang Ship, Ships, or Shipping on the internet and wondered what they mean?
Windows Cannot Find Gpedit.mscWhen searching for Group Policy Editor, or gpedit.msc, you might receive a message that reads, "Windows cannot find GPEDIT.MSC, Make sure you've typed the name correctly, then try again."
How to Check if a Used iPhone Was Repaired, Refurbished, and MoreWith top-tier smartphones costing as much as $1,200 new, the used market for phones is huge, and you have to be careful who you buy your phone from. Starting with iOS 15.2, you can check if any parts have been replaced and more. You can also check if the phone is new, refurbished, replaced, or personalized.
How to Check Your Battery Health in Windows 10 & 11The health of a laptop's battery is always a big concern. You always want to know the current health of your battery, so you're not scrambling before it's too late.
How to Limit Diagnostic Log Collection in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 & 11 collects data to improve the operating systems and fix problems. While you can turn diagnostic data on or off and delete it at any time[3], you can also limit the number of logs sent.
How to Play a Sound When You Press the Caps, Num, or Scroll Lock KeysPressing the Caps, Num, or Scroll Lock Keys on your keyboard is a common problem. You usually don't know it until you start typing. Rather than wait to find out you pressed the Caps, Num, or Scroll Lock Keys, you can enable a sound in Windows 10 & 11 anytime you press those keys.
What is a DLC in Video Games?The majority of video games offer DLC's in-game. This tutorial explains what DLC's are and why they exist.
10 Google Chrome Flags to Improve Your Browsing Experience in 2022Replacing 10_google_chrome_flags_to_improve_browsing.html which i deleted. oops....
How to Turn System Protection On or Off in Windows 10 & 11System Protection or System Restore can undo changes to your computer following a problem. If you use Reset This PC, have a backup image, partition, or a registry backup, you can disable System Restore to improve performance and free up drive space.
How to Cancel Your Amazon Kindle Unlimited SubscriptionKindle Unlimited is a monthly subscription service from Amazon that gives you access to millions of free digital books, comics, audiobooks, and magazines. You can cancel your Kindle Unlimited subscription at any time - here's how.
How to Enable or Disable Internet (Web) Printing in Windows 10 & 11The option to enable or disable internet printing is not found in settings but rather in the Registry or Group Policy Editor. Here's how to turn internet printing on or off.
How to Backup and Restore Pinned Start Menu Items in Windows 10 & 11If you've spent a lot of time customizing your Start Menu on Windows 10 or 11, you might want to make a backup of your pinned applications.
What is a Snowflake?Odds are you have heard someone call or refer to someone as a snowflake and wondered what it meant?
What Does ATM Mean?ATM is an acronym you could see almost anywhere online or in text messages. Here is what ATM means.
How to Enable or Disable Folder Options in Windows 10 & 11File Explorer is the default File Manager in Windows 10 and 11. There are hundreds of possible customization options available. You can disable access to folder options using our registry files or Group Policy Editor.
How to Enable or Disable Remote Desktop in Windows 11Remote Desktop in Windows 11 allows you to connect to and control your computer from a remote device by using the Microsoft Remote Desktop client for Windows, Android, macOS, and iOS. To do so, you'll want to know how to enable or disable Remote Desktop.
How to Enable and Use Google Chrome FlagsYou probably heard about Google Chromes Flags, but it might not be something you've ever used or are familiar with. Here's all you need to know about Google Chrome Flags.
How to Fix Windows 11 Slow SSD PerformanceThere is a known issue as of late December 2021 causing slow SSD performance. Microsoft will be releasing a fix, but you can download it now.
How to Automatically Sign In to Windows 11 at StartupWhen you boot Windows 11, you have to dismiss the lock screen and sign in using the method you chose earlier (PIN, password, picture password, facial recognition, or fingerprint). Here's how to bypass the Windows 11 sign-in screen.
How to Disable or Enable Startup Apps in Windows 11Managing your startup apps in Windows 11 can help with boot times and overall performance. Here are some ways you can manage your startup apps in Windows 11.
How to Run Troubleshooters in Windows 11Windows 11 can solve many issues by running troubleshooters that keep a database of known problems and their solutions. Here are four ways to open Troubleshooters in Windows 11.
How to Manage Your Windows 11 License and ActivationWindows 11 has made checking your Windows 11 activation and license easier, including upgrading or changing your product key.
How to Reopen Closed Tabs in Chrome, Edge, and All Chromium BrowsersWeb browsers have so many features nowadays, and you might now know about all of them. One such feature in Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and other Chromium-based browsers is reopening a recently closed tab.
How to Create a Folder Starting With a Period in Windows 10 & 11Recently, Windows 10 & 11 began allowing you to create a folder starting with a period or dot. Until now, you had to use the MKDIR command in the Command Prompt, which we will also discuss.
How to Silence Unknown Callers on Your iPhonePhone spam (robocalls) is a real nuisance for everybody, but iPhone users have the option to silence unknown callers.
How to Unblock Blocked Files Downloaded From the InternetWhen downloading files from the Internet, Windows will look at the file and categorize it as High Risk, Moderate Risk, or Low Risk and decide if it's safe for you to run the file. Windows will then allow or block the file. If you know a file is safe, but blocked from running by Windows Security, here are some options to unblock a blocked file.
How to Enable or Disable Bluetooth in Windows 11Bluetooth devices are supported and enabled by default in Windows 11. If you don't use Bluetooth, you might consider disabling it for security and performance reasons.
How to Check if Modern Standby is Supported in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 & 11 can use either S3 or Modern Standby as power modes. S3 is older, so you want to use Modern Standby, if available. Here's how to see if your computer supports Modern Standby.
How to Clean Install Windows 11Installing a clean copy of Windows 10 or 11 allows you to have a fresh install of Windows. Installing Windows has never been simple for many, but we're going to walk you through it. Whether you need help from beginning to end or just a couple of steps, we've got you covered.
How to Easily Benchmark Restart Time in Windows 10 & 11 With a Batch FileHave you ever wanted a simple way to see how long your computer takes to restart? Having this information can help you see how your computer is running.
How to Hide the Mouse Cursor When Typing in Windows 10 & 11If the mouse cursor is blocking your view or annoying you, it's easy to make the mouse cursor disappear when you're typing.
How to Reset Taskbar Notification Icons in Windows 10 & 11The Taskbar and overflow icons can often become corrupted, display incorrectly, or show icons from programs deleted or removed from startup. We can solve most problems by deleting and recreating the registry items associated with the Taskbar.
How to Open Quick Settings in Windows 11Quick Settings in Windows 11 gives you easy access to popular Windows settings, including Internet, Bluetooth, Settings, Night Light, Focus Assist, Accessibility, and more. Here are a few ways to open Quick Settings.
How to Optimize and Defragment Drives in Windows 10 & 11Optimizing or defragmenting your hard drive is important. Not only does it help your computer smoother, but hard drives have the most moving parts of any part of your computer, making maintenance an essential step of maintaining your computer. Windows 11 has made optimizing or defragmenting your hard drive almost effortless.
How to Show More Pins or Recommendations in the Windows 11 Start MenuStarting with Windows 11 build 22509, you can now choose to show more pins or more recommendations in the Windows 11 Start Menu.
How to Enable or Disable Windows 11 Style Menus in Google ChromeGoogle Chrome can use Windows 11 style menus when possible. You can enable or disable this option.
How to Show the Taskbar on All Displays in Windows 11If you use multiple monitors in Windows 11, you have a few options to customize how Windows shows your taskbar on all displays.
How to Add or Remove Folders Next to the Start Menu Power Button in Windows 11Windows 11 continues to improve on the Start Menu. One new option available in Windows 11 is to put folders on the Start Menu next to the Power button, allowing you quick access to your favorite folders, settings, and more.
How to Get Started in Cryptocurrency InvestingAs an obvious geek, I am frequently asked about cryptocurrency and getting started. Here's all you need to know to invest in cryptocurrency.
How to Reset or Repair the Microsoft Photos App in Windows 10 & 11If you're having any problems with the Windows Photos app, you can try to repair or reset the app. Problems may include Photos running slow or not opening.
How to Change Your Microsoft Account Name, Password, and MoreEverything you do in Windows 10, 11, and Microsoft Office is tied to your Microsoft account. More than likely, you'll need to change your account name, password, or other details at some point. Here's how to change your Microsoft account details.
How to Start, Stop, and Restart Services in Windows 10 & 11Services are applications that run in the background without any user interface. At some point, you want to know how to Start, Stop, or Restart a Service in Windows 10 & 11.
How to Turn Windows Update Delivery Optimization On or Off in Windows 11Windows Update Delivery Optimization helps you get the latest Windows Updates, Microsoft Store, and other Microsoft products quickly and reliably by sharing downloads with other computers on your network or the internet. It also can use your computer to do the same for others.
What Is Linux and How to Get Started?Odds are you've heard of Linux but aren't sure what it is or how it works. Here's everything you need to know about Linux.
How to Enable the Hidden 'God Mode' in Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7God Mode is a hidden Windows feature to access all sorts of settings you usually can't see or find in Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11? Think of it as Settings or the Control Panel on steroids. It's very easy to activate yourself in less than a minute.
How to Make Windows Terminal Stay Always on TopWindows Terminal has replaced and combined all of the command prompt (PowerShell and Command Prompt) into one program with numerous options and customization that previously were not available. This tutorial explains how you can set Windows Terminal to always stay on top.
How to Find Your Wi-Fi Password on Windows 10 & 11Once you connect to a wireless network, Windows will save the password in Windows 11. Here's how to find your Wi-Fi password.
How to Add or Remove 'Pin to Quick Access' Context Menu in Windows 10 & 11Quick Access in File Explorer offers a convenient and quick way to find all of your favorites. By adding Pin to quick access to your Context Menu, you can easily add or remove available items from Quick access.
How to Enable the Windows 11 Theme in Google Chrome on Windows 7, 10, and 11Beginning with Google Chrome 96. x you can try out the experimental Windows 11 mode.
How to Enable or Disable Google Chrome Hardware AccelerationGoogle Chrome uses hardware acceleration that can use your graphics card )GPU) to offset to speed up processes and use less of your processer (CPU). There may be times where you want to disable, usually due to a driver issue or other troubleshooting.
How to Restart the Start Menu in Windows 10 & 11If your Start menu is slow, unresponsive, or not working, you might be able to fix this by restarting the Start Menu. Here are some options to fix your Start Menu.
How to Change The Default Web Browser in Windows 11Microsoft has made no secret that they really want you to try Microsoft Edge. Frankly, we made no secret that we like the new Chromium-based Edge better than Chrome, but changing your default browser isn't always that easy.
How to Open or Create a Shortcut to Any Microsoft Store AppUniform Resource Identifier (URI) commands can open Microsoft Store apps using the Command Prompt, Win + R, or create a Desktop shortcut. Here's a list of all known Uniform Resource Identifier (URI) commands.
How to Turn Archive Apps On or Off in Windows 11The Microsoft Store in Windows 11 will automatically archive apps that you don't frequently use, and it can restore them if the app is still available while keeping all of your settings. You can turn this option off. Here's how.
How to Change the Default Mouse Cursor in Windows 11While most of us are accustomed to the default mouse cursor, Windows 11 offers numerous options from minor to major that can help you see and use your mouse cursor easier than ever.
How to Disable or Enable the Windows 11 Startup SoundIf the startup sound in Windows 11 bother or interrupts you, it's easy to enable or disable.
How to Export A List of Running Processes in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 & 11 comes with Task Manager, a powerful app to see all sorts of system information about your computer. You can manage processes, look at performance, see your app history, manage startup items, user accounts, and even manage Windows services. What you can't do, is export a list of running processes; until now.
What is Windows 11 SE?Microsoft has announced Windows SE will be arriving in late 2021 as a competitor to Chromebook, a low-cost laptop that costs a fraction of what a Windows PC does. Here's all you need to know about Windows SE and if you should consider it.
Why You Might See Hundreds or Thousands of .HDR Files on Your Hard DriveI recently noticed many files ending with the hdr extension and a matching file with no extension on my hard drive. Here's why you might be seeing lots of .hdr files on your hard drive.
How to Add Safe Mode to The Desktop Context Menu in Windows 10 & 11If you use Safe Mode regularly, you might find having Safe Mode available from the Context Menu.
How to Add or Remove Linux From the File Explorer Navigation PaneIf you have installed the Linux subsystem on Windows 11, you should see Linux in the navigation pane of File Explorer. If you don't see it or want to remove it, you can use our registry files.
How to Use Picture-in-Picture in Chrome, Firefox, And EdgePicture-in-picture is a feature available on most web browsers and streaming websites, including YouTube and Netflix. Once activated, your video can play on top of other windows anywhere you want to place it.
How to Use Screensavers in Windows 11While many people believe Windows 11 is just a new Start Menu and Taskbar, there are thousands of new yet subtle changes, making Windows a much better experience. One of the things you might be missing is screensavers.
How to Disable Google Chrome Search SuggestionsGoogle Chrome will make suggestions as you type, showing suggestions based on websites that you may have visited or attempting to guess at what you're looking for. If you don't like this feature, it's easy to disable.
How to Install Windows 11 on VMWareMany people want to try Windows 11 without risking using it on their daily or work computers. One easy way to try out Windows 11 is to use a virtual machine like VMware, but VMware often won't install 11 because it doesn't see your TPM or Secure boot. Here's how we got Windows 11 installed.
How to Format Any Hard Drive in Windows 10 & 11Formatting a hard drive is a simple way to delete anything on any drive, including SATA, SSD, NVMe, or any external drive, including flash and thumb drives.
How to Uninstall a Windows Update in Windows 10 & 11While it can be problematic, there are millions of possible PC configurations, so a Windows Update bug that temporarily screws up something on your computer happens to everyone. Knowing how to uninstall an update is essential to solving a Windows Update problem.
How to Reset Quick Settings in Windows 11Quick Settings is located in the lower-right corner of your Desktop or by pressing the Windows Key + A. Quick Settings gives you quick access to your internet settings, including Airplane mode, Bluetooth, Volume, Night Light, Focus Assist, Accessibility, or anything you want to add. If you are having problems with Quick Settings, you can reset it to default fixing most problems.
How to Add or Remove 'Open in Windows Terminal' in Windows 11Windows 11 now features Windows Terminal, a better way to use the command-line, including PowerShell and the Command Prompt. It is the first worthwhile upgrade to command-line tools since PowerShell. When you right-click on the Desktop, Open in Windows Terminal is one of the Context Menu items available, which you can remove for the current or all users.
How to Use Windows Store App Troubleshooter in Windows 11Microsoft has redesigned the Microsoft Store for Windows 11, but if you have issues with Microsoft Store, including not opening, frozen, or other issues, reregistering the Store might help.
How to Re-register Microsoft Store in Windows 10 & 11Microsoft has redesigned the Microsoft Store for Windows 11, but if you have issues, including not opening, frozen, or other issues, reregistering the Store might help.
What is a Hooptie?A hooptie is one of those slang words that many people aren't familiar with or know what it means.
How to Hide the Recycle Bin in Windows 11, 10, 8, & 7Hiding the Recycle Bin is possible on Windows 11, 10, and 7. It can be especially useful to avoid someone accidentally emptying the Recycle Bin.
How to Enable or Disable Google Chromes Side PanelGoogle Chrome features a side panel that can open your reading list and bookmarks on the right side of your screen when clicked. If you don't use it, it's easy to disable.
Scam Alert: Malwarebytes Confirmation and Invoice EmailsFake emails are nothing new. Some people have received emails from Malwarebytes confirming you purchased 1-5 devices of protection, often at the cost of over $500.
What Does the R-Word Mean?The R-word is something that occasionally makes the news when someone is dumb enough to use it. So what is the R-word?
How to Disable Widgets in Windows 11Widgets in Windows 11 give you easy access to weather, news, stocks, photos, traffic, and many common Windows 11 tasks and applications. If you don't use Widgets, you can disable them in Group Policy Editor or the registry.
How to Install Android Apps on Windows 11Hardware virtualization must be enabled. You can enable Intel VT-X in your computer’s BIOS or AMD-V for AMD chipsets. You will need 8GB of RAM minimum, and 16GB is recommended. There are a handful of steps to get Amazon Appstore installed. Click on Set up. Choose whether to send optional diagnostic data. Click Download. Wait for the download to complete. Click Next. Restart your computer. ...
How to Setup File History in Windows 10 & 11File History in Windows 10 & 11 allows you to backup your files should they get lost, deleted, or corrupted. If you have a second hard drive, you can choose what files to back up.
Microsoft is Forcing Windows PC Health Check on Windows 10Windows 10 previously notified you if your computer was ready for Windows 11 and optionally offered PC Health Check. Recently, Microsoft released KB5005463 as part of Windows Update that forces the installation of PC Health Check.
What Does "Lets Go Brandon" Mean?You've probably heard the memes and songs "Let's Go Brandon" on social media websites and wondered who Brandon is and what it all means?
How to Install or Uninstall Microsoft .Net Framework 2.0 and 3.0 in Windows 10 & 11Many older apps and games may require you to install older versions of Microsoft .Net Framework. While some apps might install the required versions of .Net, you can install .Net 2.0 and 3.0 in Windows Features in Windows 10 & 11.
How to Enable or Disable Windows Update Restart NotificationsWindows Updates are important to your computer. Many windows Updates include drivers, bug and security fixes, and even feature updates. Windows 11 can remind you when you need to restart to apply the latest Windows Updates.
Video: How to Add or Remove Optional Features in Windows 11Slimming or customizing Windows is something everyone wants to do. There are simple changes you can make and complicated changes. One safe way to customize Windows 11 is to add or remove optional features.
What is MusNotifyIcon.exe?Windows 10 and 11 users might notice a process called MusNotifyIcon, often wondering if it is a virus or malware. Here's all you need to know.
Meme Stocks ExplainedMeme stocks are a phenomenon that began in late 2020, and it has gotten attention from wall street traders to Fortnite gamers making and breaking millionaires. What are meme stocks, and should you get involved?
What Does NR Mean?NR is another acronym that you can find on social media or text messages. Here's what NR means, where it came from, and how to use it.
What Does TFW Mean?TFW is another acronym that you can find on social media or text messages. Here's what TFW means, where it came from, and how to use it.
How to Share Photos and Videos on InstagramInstagram makes sharing photos with your friends and followers easy to do, but what if you want to share an Instagram video or photo somewhere else? Here's how to do that from your mobile device or PC.
How to Create A Portable Version of Windows 10 or 11Most of us are familiar with Linux Live distributions, but you can also create a live, or portable, installation of Windows on a thumb drive, also called Windows to Go.
How to Find Your Windows 11 Edition, Version and Build NumbersIf you need to find out the current version and build your Windows 11 computer, it's easy to find in a few places.
How to Disable or Enable Title Bar Window Shake in Windows 11Title Bar Window Shake allows you to grab a windows title bar and shake it to minimize or restore all other windows. You can easily disable this feature if you want.
How to Rebuild the Font Cache in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 & 11 both maintain a fonts cache allowing fonts to load faster. If you're having issues with your fonts, rebuilding the fonts cache can often solve the problem. Still, Windows does not offer a troubleshooter or any official way to rebuild the font cache, which might solve many font-related problems.
How to Enable, Disable, or Delete App Diagnostics Data in Windows 11App Diagnostics takes information from your apps, allowing them to work better. Some people are concerned about privacy and performance, preferring to disable app diagnostics.
How to Add Troubleshooters Desktop Context Menu in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 and 11 features Windows Troubleshooters that can check for and apply fixes to known problems. One neat little trick is adding the Troubleshooters to your Context Menu for easy access. Here's how.
How to Stop VLC From Opening Multiple Windows in Windows 10 & 11VLC is a popular media player for Windows. VLC, by default, can open multiple windows when you open another video at the same time. You can disable multiple Windows in the preferences.
What Does SO Mean?SO is an internet acronym that you might see on social media or even text messages. Here's what SO means, where it came from, and how to use it.
What Does JIC Mean?JIC is an acronym that you might see on social media, video games, or text messages. Here's what JIC means, where it came from, and how to use it.
How to Pin Any Microsoft Store App or Game to the Start Menu or TaskbarIf you use the Microsoft Store regularly, you might want to pin some of your favorite apps or games to the Start Menu or Taskbar for quick access.
How to Change High Performance or Power Saving Modes for Individual Apps in Windows 11Windows 11 automatically adjusts your apps for the best power plan and overall performance for your graphics card. While it does an excellent job by default, you might want to check some of your favorite app settings to make sure they perform the best they can.
How to Turn On or Off Game Mode in Windows 11Game Mode in Windows 11 can help Windows prioritize your gaming experience by turning things off in the background, including Windows Updates as you play. Game Mode is on by default and can easily be turned on or off in Settings.
How to Turn Off Suggested or Sponsored Ads in Mozilla FirefoxBeginning with Mozilla Firefox 93, you may now see what Mozilla calls the Firefox Suggest feature, which means that Firefox may occasionally show sponsored suggestions. If you'd like to disable the sponsored suggestions, Mozilla has made it easy to do.
How to Get More Done With Focus Sessions in Windows 11Focus assist in Windows 10 is now called Focus sessions in Windows 11. Focus sessions allow you to prioritize your time and set a schedule to get more done. Here's how to get started with Focus sessions.
What is EasyAntiCheat?Many people discover EasyAntiCheat with numerous file extensions, including EXE, EAC, SYS, and DLL, on their computers and wonder what it is and if it's needed. Here's all you need to know about EasyAntiCheat.
How to Enable or Disable Show Desktop in Windows 11On the far-right corner of your taskbar, you can click it and show your Desktop at any time. If you never use it, you can remove the Show Desktop shortcut from your Taskbar.
How to Bypass TPM and Install Windows 11Microsoft has made official one other possible way to bypass another TPM requirement by editing the registry.
How to Disable Windows 11 Lock Screen Facts, Tips, Tricks, and MoreBy default, the Windows 11 lock screen might show you tips, tricks, facts, and other messages on your lock screen. Here's how to disable that.
How to Restore the Windows 10 Context Menu in Windows 11Windows 11 now features a simplified Context Menu. If you miss the Windows 10 Context Menu, you can edit the registry or use our registry files.
How to Hide Recent Searches When You Hover Over the Windows 11 Search IconWhen you hover over the Windows Search on the Taskbar of Windows 11, you can see some of your recent searches. You have the option to hide those recent searches.
How to Remove 'Show More Options' From the Windows 11 Context MenuWhen you right-click in Windows 11, you will see a modern Context Menu. At the bottom, one of the options is Show more options, which is almost useless as it repeats the same options. If you prefer a condensed, organized Context Menu, you can easily remove Show more options.
How to Fix Ubisoft Connect Repeated User Account Control (UAC) PromptsUbisoft Connect (UPlay)has an annoying bug where the launcher repeatedly asks you to confirm User Account Control (UAC) permission about three times.
How to Find Public Restrooms in Google MapsSo, you gotta go? Google Maps can find the nearest restroom from your location with a simple search.
How to Change YouTube Double-Tap to Skip TimeYouTube allows you to quickly jump forward or backward for 10 seconds by double-tapping the left or right side of the screen. You can customize the 10 seconds from 5-60 seconds.
How to Disable Indexing in Windows 10 & 11After upgrading to Windows 11, I noticed that my drive was indexed even though I had disabled it previously. Here's how to disable indexing on your hard drive.
How to Show All Icons in the System Tray in Windows 11While many things in Windows 11 are similar to Windows 10, one annoyance for me is that you can only see a couple of icons in the system tray of the Taskbar in the lower-right corner of your Desktop.
How to Enable or Disable Animation Effects in Windows 11Windows 11 uses animation effects by default for controls and elements. You have the option to turn this setting off if you want.
How to Fix 'This File is Too Big to Recycle' in Windows 10 & 11The Recycle Bin in Windows 10 & 11 has a size limit that can result in an error that reads, "This file (or these items) is too big to recycle. Do you want to permanently delete it?"
How to Disable or Uninstall Microsoft Teams in Windows 11It would appear Microsoft wants you to use Microsoft Teams. Removing it isn't too tricky, but it's not as easy as it should be. Here's how to disable or remove Microsoft Teams in Windows 11.
How to Use Cleanup Recommendations in Windows 11Windows 11 has introduced a new drive cleaning feature called "Cleanup recommendations." While it's still not as good as some of the best drive cleaners on the market, it's a step in the right direction.
10 Ways to Open the Command Prompt in Windows 11Windows 11 has moved PowerShell and Windows Terminal to the forefront for people who want to work from a command line. This isn't a bad thing, but there are times you might need or prefer, the Command Prompt. Here are all the ways you can still open the Command Prompt in Windows 11.
How to Enable or Disable Hardware Accelerated GPU Scheduling in Windows 10 & 11In May of 2020, Microsoft added Hardware Accelerated GPU Scheduling in Windows 10, which carries into Windows 11. This tutorial explains what Hardware Accelerated GPU Scheduling is and how to enable or disable it.
How to Fix Printer Status is Paused, Cannot Resume in Windows 10 & 11A common problem, often with Hewlett Packard (HP) printers, is an error that reads, "Printer Status is Paused, Cannot Resume." Here are a few steps to try to resolve this error.
How to Use Color Filters in Windows 10 & 11Color Filters in Windows 10 & 11 can make colors on your screen easier to see and differentiate. It can be helpful if you are color blind or anyone who wants a different look.
How to Change The Windows 11 Font Size System-wideIf you'd prefer a smaller or larger font in Windows 11 to make things easier to read, it's easy to do.
How to Hide Your Birthday on FacebookWe've already shown you how to see your friend's birthdays on Facebook; now, let's take a look at how to hide your birthday on Facebook.
How to Find Your Friends Birthdays on FacebookFacebook alerts you whenever someone on your friends list has a birthday. Sometimes, you might want to look ahead or even add some of your friends to your calendar.
How to Use DuckDuckGo as the Default Search Engine in Microsoft Edge DuckDuckGo is now available as the default search engine in Microsoft Edge. Here's how to set DuckDuckGo as the default engine. DuckDuckGo is a privacy-based search engine that allows you to search the web without being tracked. Here's how to make DuckDuckGo your default search engine.
What Is the DriverStore Folder and Can You Delete It?Windows 10 & 11 contains a folder called DriverStore. This tutorial explains what the DriverStore folder is there for and if you can delete it.
5 Ways to Open Windows Security in Windows 11Windows Security is included with Windows 11 and includes Microsoft Defender Antivirus. If you use a different antivirus app, Microsoft Defender Antivirus will be disabled, but Windows Security remains in use. Here are different ways to open Windows Security on Windows 11.
How to Turn Cellular Data on or off in Windows 11Whether you use cellular data with an included eSim or Sim card or plugin a device with cellular access, you may need to enable or disable cellular data.
How to Change Your Primary Display in Windows 10 & 11If you are using multiple monitors, you might occasionally change which monitor is the primary display. You can choose your primary monitor in settings or with your video card software.
How to Change Your First System Product Name in Windows 10 & 11Every installation has a system product name that varies from device to device depending on the manufacturer or if you built your PC. Here's how to change your system product name in Windows 11.
How to Use DuckDuckGo as the Default Search Engine in Mozilla FirefoxDuckDuckGo is now available as the default search engine in Firefox. Here's how to set DuckDuckGo as the default search engine.
How to Restore the Classic File Explorer Ribbon in Windows 11Whenever Microsoft makes a major interface improvement in Windows, some people prefer it the way it was; we get it. One such example is the new File Explorer in Windows 11 that replaces the ribbon with a new command bar.
How to Convert a PDF to JPG, JPEG, PNG, BMP, GIF, or TIFF in Windows 10 & 11If you're looking to convert a PDF to JPG, you're not alone. It's a popular request, and there are a couple of ways to accomplish this.
How to Create Bootable Windows Installation Media For Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7If you need to clean install Windows, you'll need a thumb drive, an ISO file, and a way to burn the thumb drive to a bootable ISO. While this sounds complicated on the surface, it's easy to do. Here's all you need to know.
How to Set Up Alexa Email AlertsAmazon Alexa features the option to alert you whenever an email is received. This tutorial walks you through the steps of setting up Alexa email alerts.
How to Mount or Unmount ISO and IMG Files in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 & 11 both allow you to mount an ISO or IMG file in numerous ways that can be used as a CD or DVD drive in File Explorer.
How to Change Your Mouse Pointer Size, Style, and Color in Windows 11Windows 11 has new settings to change your mouse pointer's size, style, and color (cursor). This can be handy for anyone with vision difficulties or to personalize your computer.
How to Disable or Modify User Account Control (UAC) in Windows 10 & 11Whenever you run an app in Windows, you are prompted by User Account Control or UAC to confirm you want to allow that app to make changes to your device. If you find this annoying, you can disable UAC in a few different ways.
ASUS Releases BIOS Update to Enable TPM on Hundreds of MotherboardsASUS has released BIOS updates for hundreds of their motherboards sold from 2013 to enable TPM on supported Intel and AMD chipsets with firmware TPM technology already built in.
Download a Bootable Windows 11 ISO With EaseUS Win11 BuilderWith the release of Windows 11, you might need to download the ISO, use a third-party app to burn a thumb drive, or even bypass TPM. Here is one of the simplest ways to do it all.
How to Stop Windows 11 From Showing Edge Tabs When You Use Alt + TabWhen you use Alt+Tab in Windows 11, you are shown all Microsoft Edge tabs in a separate window. You could use Task View instead to group all Edge tabs as a single window, or you can modify what Edge tabs you see when you press Alt+Tab.
How to Add or Remove the Task View Icon From the Windows 11 TaskbarWindows 11 features a Task View icon as part of the Taskbar that you can remove if you don't need or use it.
How to Add or Remove the Search Icon From the Windows 11 TaskbarWindows 11 features a Search icon as part of the Taskbar that you can remove if you don't need or use it.
6 Websites to Download Videos Without SoftwareAs someone who has run a software download website for 25 years, a few frustrations stand out. One of these frustrations is trying to download YouTube videos.
How to Zip and Unzip Files in Windows 11Windows 11 has made it easier than ever before to zip or unzip a file in Windows 11. Here's how you can easily manage your ZIP files in Windows 11.
How to Enable Super Duper Secure Mode in Microsoft EdgeSuper Duper Secure Mode is a feature now available to everyone using Microsoft Edge 93 or later, allowing a more secure browsing experience. It was developed to prevent cybercriminals from accessing and exploiting the bugs in the browser. Here's how to enable it on Windows 10 or 11.
How to Enable or Disable Direct Play in Windows 10 & 11DirectPlay is part of DirectX that allows players to establish a link. While DirectPlay isn't used anymore in most newer games, it is still required for older games. Here's how you can enable or disable DirectPlay on Windows 10 or 11.
How to Clear "Watch Later" on YouTubeYouTube keeps a list of videos you can watch later. Of course, over time, this list can get long and even not relevant to you. Here's how to clear out your "Watch Later" list on YouTube.
How to Change Dynamic Refresh Rate (DDR) in Windows 10 & 11DDR, or Dynamic Refresh Rate, manages the frame rates on your computer and is enabled and managed by Windows. If you like, you can speed up or slow down the DDR on your computer.
How to Hide Recommended From the Start Menu in Windows 11The Start Menu in Windows 11 will show you recommendations based on your recent usage. While a handy feature, some might have no use for it and prefer to unclutter their Start Menu by removing Recommended.
How to Change the Default Touch Keyboard Theme in 11If you use the touch keyboard in Windows 11, you might want to change the keyboard theme to suit your needs.
How to Change the Touch Keyboard Size in Windows 10 & 11If you use the touch keyboard in Windows 10 & 11, you might want to change the keyboard size to suit your needs.
What is AliyunWrapExe.exe?AliyunWrapExe.exe is an executable you might have found on your computer that is locked or possibly locking a file that you want to delete. Here's all you need to know about AliyunWrapExe.exe.
How to Change the Spectrum Cable Box Default ChannelSpectrum DVR boxes, by default, will automatically open to the Spectrum news channel. You can change this so that any channel you prefer is the default channel when you turn on your cable box.
How to Create a Signature in GmailIf you use Gmail frequently, you might want to take advantage of creating a signature to add at the end of every email. It's easy to create and customize your unique signature.
How to Pause and Resume Windows 11 UpdatesWindows 11 gives you an easy-to-access option to pause Windows 11 for a week. This feature can be handy whenever you get word of a botched Windows Update.
How to Downgrade Windows 11 to Windows 10If you've upgraded to Windows 11 and want to go back to Windows 10, you have limited options. Here's all you need to know.
How to Find Your IP Address in Windows 10 & 11At some point in all our lives, we need to find our IP address. Luckily, this is easy to do at any skill level. Here are some options for you to easily find your IP address.
How to Run a Microsoft Defender Offline ScanWindows Security and Defender have vastly improved over the years; although we admit it still has a way to go, it's free and included in Windows 10 & 11, saving you the trouble of choosing a third-party antivirus and all of the problems that come with it. You should know how to do an offline scan should a virus or malware slip through.
How to Enable or Disable the Touch Keyboard in Windows 11If you have a touch screen computer, you might prefer using the on-screen keyboard. Windows 11 makes it easy to enable or disable the touch keyboard.
How to Delete Your PayPal AccountPayPal is a popular online payment service, although many people now use other online payments systems. If you no longer use PayPal, here's how you can delete your account.
How to Show or Hide Lock Screen Notifications in Windows 10 & 11Windows 11 can show you notifications on the lock screen. You can customize what notifications, if any, are displayed on the lock screen.
How to Remember Window Locations With Multiple Monitors in Windows 11Multiple monitors are great to have, but you need third-party software to remember Windows positions and placement. This annoyance has been fixed with Windows 11.
Try Out Windows 11 With This Windows 11 SimulatorWindows 11 is all the buzz with Windows, Mac, and even Linux users. If you're not a geek willing to risk trying Windows 11 as an insider, then all you have is videos, screenshots, and articles that describe the experience; until now.
How to Enable or Google Chrome MemoriesGoogle Chrome has implemented a new way to view your browsing history call Memories. Here's to you can enable or disable Memories in google Chrome.
Here Are the Windows Processers That Support Windows 11As everyone knows by now, Windows 11 will require TPM or Trusted Platform Module to install. This raises a lot of questions for most people. Here are the CPUs (Processors) supported by Windows 11.
What Does Pspspsps Mean?Pspspsps is something you might have seen almost anywhere, including memes, social media, and websites. So, just what does pspspsps mean?
What Is twain_32.Dll? Is it Malware and How to Fix ErrorsTwain32.dll is a Dynamic Link Library (DLL) file containing information and instructions to work with executables (EXE) files. This DLL is an important part of Windows, allowing multiple programs to share a single DLL file instead of having numerous locations.
How to Stop Apple From Scanning Your iPhone PhotosApple’s new iPhone photo-scanning feature is a very controversial thing. You might want to consider the only current option to stop Apple from scanning your photos.
How to Disable Background Apps in Windows 11Windows 11 allows you to disable background apps, but the method has changed from Windows 10, making it more complicated to use.
How to Save Network Bandwidth by Playing Low-Resolution Videos in Windows 10 & 11Windows 11 allows you to use less bandwidth by playing videos at a lower resolution. Whether you're on a limited connection or need bandwidth somewhere else, enabling this setting might help.
How to Find Your Motherboard Make and Model in Windows 10 & 11All computer components connect to your motherboard. If you decide to upgrade your computer, you often need to know what motherboard you have.
How to Pin Downloads in Microsoft EdgeDownloading with Microsoft Edge can be confusing. The downloads toolbar only appears when you're downloading something by default. There are two options to access downloads easily at any time.
How to Pin or Unpin File Explorer to the Windows 11 TaskbarBy default, File Explorer is easily opened from the Taskbar in Windows 11. Here's how you can remove or restore the File Explorer shortcut from the Taskbar.
How to Download the Windows 10 Gaming Performance FixWindows 10 has been plagued with Game Mode, and Power Plan issues that have caused frustration with gamers experiencing low or stuttering frame rates. A fix is now available. Here's how to get it.
How to Hide Badges on the Windows 11 TaskbarWindows 11 can show you notifications, known as badges, which appear to alert you of an update, for example, a new email. Badges are on by default, but you can disable them.
How to Hide the Taskbar in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 and 11 offer the option to hide the Taskbar. This option hides the Taskbar, showing more on your Desktop, but reappears when you move your mouse to the bottom of the screen.
How to Enable or Disable Animation Effects in Windows 10Windows has always offered some sort of eye candy to make Windows appear more attractive. These visual enhancements can slow down an older or underpowered computer. In Windows 11, you might consider disabling animations to improve Windows 11 speed and response.
How to Disable the Built-in Password Manager in Chrome, Firefox, and EdgeGoogle Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge all include excellent password managers, but they are not considered secure. We recommend using one of the best password managers and disabling the built-in password managers in your web browser.
How to Enable or Disable Mouse Acceleration in Windows 10 & 11Mouse acceleration, or pointer precision, allows you to quickly move your mouse to the other side of the screen when you quickly move it three inches. Mouse acceleration is on by default, but here's how to enable or disable it.
How to Open or Pin Windows Tools in Windows 11Many of the most popular included Windows tools were merged into a single location called Windows Tools. That's where you can find Windows Accessories, PowerShell and Command Prompt, Windows Administrative Tools, Windows System, and more. Here's where to find Windows Tools in Windows 11.
How to Sign a PDF in Microsoft Edge in Windows 10 & 11Signing a PDF is something many of us have to do at some point, but most web browsers and apps make it difficult. With the Chromium-based Microsoft Edge, singing a PDF is easy.
How to Open Snip & Sketch When You Press Print Screen in Windows 10 & 11If you use the Print Screen button and Snip and Sketch, there is an option to automatically open Snip and Sketch when you press the Print Screen button.
How to Find Your RAM Speed in Windows 10 & 11If you're upgrading your RAM, you should know the speed in MHz to purchase the right memory. Otherwise, you might get errors running incompatible RAM.
Three Ways to Open Sound Settings in the Control Panel in Windows 10 & 11While most of us have gotten used to using Settings in Windows 10 or 11, you can often find more options in the Control Panel. Here are three ways to open the Sounds settings in the Control Panel.
How to Fix Bright Screenshots or Videos When Using Print Screen or Snipping ToolWhen taking a screenshot in Google Chrome, you might experience a very bright, hard-to-see screenshot. Here's how to get your properly colored screenshots back.
How to Remove Rotate Left and Right From The Context Menu in Windows 10 & 11When you right-click on most images in Windows, you are given the Context Menu option to rotate the image left or right. If you like, you can remove Rotate Left and Rotate right from the Context Menu.
How to Add Folder and App Shortcuts to The Windows 11 Start MenuThe Windows 11 Start Menu is different than before and takes some getting used to. One new feature is adding folders directly to the Start Menu for easy access to the most commonly used folders.
What Does Sus Mean?You may have heard the slang Sus being used more lately, mostly by the younger generation. What does SUS mean?
4 Ways to Open Windows Terminal As Administrator in Windows 11In Windows 10, the Windows Terminal was an optional download from the Microsoft Store. Starting with Windows 11, Windows Terminal is included. By default, like Command Prompt or PowerShell, the default setting is to open it normally. Here are 4 ways to open Windows Terminal as an Administrator.
How to Block Windows 11 From InstallingThe Windows 11 update is expected to arrive in the Fall of 2021 and as late as Spring of 2022 for some. Many people know enough not to be one of the first to adopt a Feature Update, nonetheless an entirely revamped operating system. Here is a couple of ways to block Windows 11.
How to Share Files Wirelessly in Windows 10 & 11Microsoft introduced Nearby Sharing in 2018, allowing users to transfer files to other computers on the same network. Here's how you can share files wirelessly on your Windows 10 or 100 computer.
How to Create a Printable Wi-Fi Login & Password QR CodeEveryone is used to typing in a new Wi-Fi connection when visiting someone's home or business. It's often a tedious problem, typing in many different letters, characters, and more, assuming the router has a secure password. How about a QR code you can quickly create so that anyone can scan and connect instantly and easily?
How to Rename Your Wi-Fi or Ethernet Adapter in Windows 11Windows 11 will assign random names to your Wi-Fi or ethernet adapters. This tutorial takes you through the steps to change the name of your Wi-Fi or ethernet adapter.
How to Download a Windows 10 or 11 Insider ISOThere's been a lot of interest in Windows 11, but for those who prefer an ISO and not registering to become a Windows Insider, here's how to download the latest Windows 11 ISO legally.
How to Monitor Your Gaming FPS in Windows 10 & 11There are plenty of freeware apps to monitor your FPS (frames per second) in your video games, but the built-in FPS monitor that comes with Windows 10 and 11 might be the easiest way to see your gaming FPS.
What Does PEBKAC Mean?PEBKAC is a term you might have heard but might wish you hadn't unless your a computer technician or in the IT field.
How to Disable Windows Hello PIN in Windows 10 and 11Windows Hello is an option for Windows 10 and 11 that lets you log on easier by using a PIN you create. However, there are some apps that Windows Hello opens when you don't want it to. Here are your options to stop Windows Hello from popping up.
How to Show or Hide the Taskbar on Multiple Monitors in Windows 11If you are using a dual monitor setup, Windows 11 gives you the option to show your Taskbar on both monitors. Here's where to find the setting to show or hide your Taskbar on multiple monitors.
How to Install or Uninstall TPM Diagnostics in Windows 11Windows 11 has a new app to get information about your TPM, or Trusted Platform Module, which is required to run Windows 11. TPM is a hardware chip to protect and store security keys and sensitive user data. TPM is available on most computers built after 2015.
Show Your Support for MajorGeeks a DonationMajorGeeks accepts donations through PayPal. This page exists to thank those who donated personally.
How to Password Protect Your Google Search HistoryGoogle keeps track of your search history from any device. By turning on extra verification, Google will make sure it’s really you before you can see or delete your full history on My Activity. This can help keep your history safer on shared devices.
How to Travel Back in Time in Google MapsGoogle Maps updates typically every few years. Depending on the location, you can travel back in time, sometimes as far back as 15 years.
How to Bypass Secure Boot & Trusted Platform Module to Install Windows 11Windows 11 requires a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) chip to install during the beta period. Here's a registry hack to bypass TPM and install Windows 11.
How to Play Google's Hidden Pinball Game on iOSGoogle loves Easter Eggs. While many of them are used by going to the Google website, here's a hidden pinball game you can play in the Google App on your smartphone or tablet.
6 Ways to See if Your Computer Has a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) ChipWith the announcement of Windows 11, people have become familiar with Trusted Platform Module, or TPM, something required to run Windows 11. Here's how you can see if your computer has TPM.
How to Move the Windows 11 Taskbar to the Top, Left, or Right Of Your ScreenThe new Windows 11 Start Menu is currently located in the center of your screen and can't be moved, unlike previous versions of Windows. With a registry edit, you can move the Start Menu to the top of your screen.
How to Modify, Enable or Disable Snap Layouts and Snap Groups in Windows 11Windows 11 now has Snap Layouts and Snap Groups that improve upon task-switching or task view over Windows 10. Here's how to modify, enable or disable how these work.
How to Remove Widgets or Chat From the Windows 11 TaskbarWidgets are back in full force for Windows 11, but maybe you have no interest in using them. Disabling Widgets from the Start Menu can help and ad room for another shortcut.
How to Get a Larger or Smaller Taskbar in Windows 11Windows 11 features a newly centered Taskbar. If you'd like a larger or smaller Taskbar, we can do this with registry files or edit the registry yourself.
What Does w/e Mean?w/e is something you may have come across in conversation on the internet (social media, chat rooms) or messages. Here's all you need to know about w/e.
This PC Can't Run Windows 11Following the announcement of Windows 11, many people were surprised to find out that Windows PC Health Check told them their computer couldn't run Windows 11. For most of us, this is an easy fix.
How to Change Alexa's Voice, Speed, Language, or AccentBy default, Amazon Alexa has a familiar voice that most of us enjoy and have become accustomed to. You can, however, change the accent or even change Alexa to a celebrity voice.
The Differences Between the Program Files Folder and Program Files (x86) FoldersAnyone who has used Windows for years knows there are two Program Files folders; Program Files and Program Files (x86). In this tutorial, we explain the difference between the two folders.
7 Ways to Turn off a Windows 10 or 11 ComputerWhile most of us use the Start button to shut down, if your favorite way of shutting down isn't working due to system freezes or apps have crashed, you might want to shut down properly using another method. Here are 7 ways you can shut down your Windows PC.
What Does DW Mean?DW is used in all sorts of communications, including social media, text messages, and more. Here's what it means.
How to Sign in to Google Sites (Gmail, YouTube) Without Signing Into ChromeWhen you sign in to Google sites, including Gmail and YouTube, you are automatically are signed into Google Chrome. If you'd prefer to log into Google sites without logging into Google Chrome, it's easy to do.
How to Open a Website in Internet Explorer Mode With Microsoft EdgeMicrosoft will no longer support the old Internet Explorer in June of 2021. However, they have, for now, made an option available to load a website in Internet Explorer mode.
Why Windows 10 Isn't the Last Version of WindowsWith all of the press about the leaked version of Windows 11, one question continues to surface - Didn't Microsoft say Windows 10 would be the last version of Windows?
How to Use Fewer Google Chrome ProcessesMost people who use Google Chrome discover that it runs multiple processes and can consume a lot of CPU and memory. Here are some options to cut back on Google Chrome processes and hopefully improve the speed and performance.
How to Prevent Users From Deleting Printers in WindowsAny user can add or remove printers from the Windows Control Panel or Settings. With a simple registry edit, you can block users from deleting your printers.
How to Restore the Windows 10 Start Menu With Live Tiles in Windows 11Windows 11 has introduced a new Start Menu that removes Live Tiles. However, if you prefer the old Start Menu with Live Tiles, it's easy to do in the registry.
Windows 11 First LookWindows 11 has leaked on the internet days before the official announcement. Here's a quick look at what's new so far. We expect many more changes, but we love what we see.
How to Move the Start Menu Back to the Left in Windows 11The new Windows 11 has moved the Start menu to the center of the screen, similar to the macOS. In this tutorial, we show you how you can easily move your Taskbar back to the left.
How to Turn Facebook Facial Recognition on or OffFacebook can automatically create a digital footprint of your face which can be used to identify you in photos and videos. Of course, you can disable this feature if you like.
How to Check or Change Your Screen Display ResolutionWindows 10 has simplified changing the resolution of your screen. Some people might want to check out what resolution they are using or even try a larger or smaller resolution.
How to Add Windows Tools Context Menu in Windows 10 & 11Microsoft has moved the most commonly used Windows tools into a folder called Windows Tools. This tutorial explains how you can add Windows Tools to the Desktop Context Menu.
How to Check Your PowerShell Version in Windows 10 & 11If you need to check your PowerShell version, it's simple to do.
How to Hide the Taskbar Toolbars Context Menu in Windows 10 & 11When you right-click on your Taskbar, a toolbar appears that links many Taskbar options without going into settings. If you never use the Toolbars link, you can remove it and save some screen space.
How to Enable or Disable Compact View in File Explorer in Windows 10 & 11Microsft is beginning to roll out Compact View for File Explorer. Compact view reduces the spacing or padding between files and folders. This feature is only available to Windows 10 Insiders at the time of this article but should be rolled out to everyone soon.
How to Disable Shadow Copy or Volume Shadow Copy Service (VSS) in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, and VistaShadow Copy or Volume Shadow Copy Service (VSS) is a part of Windows 10, 8, 7, and Vista that takes a snapshot of your entire drive manually or automatically. If you manage your own backups, you can disable this service.
How to Restore Lost or Damaged Files in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, and VistaShadow Copy or Volume Shadow Copy Service (VSS) is a part of Windows 10, 8, 7, and Vista that takes a snapshot of your entire drive manually or automatically. Here's how to restore files from Shadow Copy Service.
How to Disable Emergency & Government Alerts on the iPhoneThe iPhone is automatically set to notify you of emergency and public safety alerts, including Amber alerts, weather notifications, and other notifications from your Government. Here's how you can enable or disable these alerts.
How to Block or Allow Pop-ups In Microsoft EdgeIf you need to allow popups, even if only temporarily in Microsoft Edge, here's how to do that.
How to Enable or Disable SMBv2 in Windows 10 & 11If you need to disable or enable SMBv2 for troubleshooting purposes, it's easy to do for any skill level. Here's what to do.
Your Brain When Switching From a Curved to Flat MonitorIf you've recently switched from a curved monitor to a flat monitor, you might have noticed something weird?
How to Enable HDR in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 features High Dynamic Range, or HDR for your photos, videos, and games, when possible or available. Here's how to enable or troubleshoot HDR in Windows 10.
What Does LOLD Mean?If you've seen LOLD in your travels, on discussion forums, text messages, or almost anywhere, you might wonder what it means?
How to Restore Files from Windows.old in Windows 10 & 11If you'd like to recover files from your previous Windows installation, you might be able to if you have a Windows.old folder.
How to Add or Remove Pin to Start From Context Menu in Windows 10 & 11Pin to Start is a Context Menu option that appears when you right-click on most applications, programs, or shortcuts. It's a quick way to Pin something to the Windows 10 Start Menu. In some cases, you might want to remove the Pin to Start Context Menu.
How to Disable RGB (LED) Lighting on Your ComputerRGB lights are very popular with gaming computers and especially fans. If you want to disable the RGB lights on your computer, here's all you need to know.
What Is Amazon Sidewalk and How to Opt-Out?Amazon has added Amazon Sidewalk to their devices including Echo, and Alexa. What is Amazon Sidewalk, and should you disable it?
Disk Cleanup Not Working in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 includes a simple drive cleaning app called Disk Cleanup. If it is not working, or working properly, here are some options to consider.
What Does SMTH Mean?If someone sent you a message or you spotted SMTH somewhere on the internet, you might have wondered what that meant.
How to Fix Microsoft Store Error 0x80073CF3If you are getting a 0x80073CF3 error when installing or updating an app in the Microsoft Store, here are some steps you can try.
How to Prevent Users From Changing Your Theme in Windows 10 & 11If you have a shared computer, including universities and businesses, you might want to prevent users from changing your theme in Windows 10. Here's how you can do that.
How to View Recent Files in Windows 10 & 11Because it's easy to misplace a file in Windows 10, File Explorer keeps track of recent files so that you can find them easily. Here are a few ways to find your recent files.
How to Disable or Turn 'Find My Device' on or off in Windows 10 & 11Find my Device allows Windows 10 users to track their devices if lost. Here's how to enable or disable this feature.
How to View Hidden Devices in Device Manager on Windows 10 & 11The Device Manager is a handy tool for diagnosing problems in Windows. Information about all of your devices is here, including General, Drivers, Details, and Events. You might want to be sure that you can see all devices.
How to Restrict Someone From Seeing Your Posts on FacebookWe all have that one friend. You make a post about a certain subject, and here comes the narcissist to make their opinions known to all. You can unfollow them, but that doesn't stop them from seeing or commenting on your posts. Another option would be to add them to a Restricted List permanently or when you make a new post.
How to Enable, Disable, or Clear Your Taskbar History in Windows 10 & 11When you use search in Windows 10, from the Taskbar or using the Windows Key + S, your search history is stored, which is handy if you frequently search for the same things as Windows will make suggestions as you type. You can easily clear your search history and enable or disable it if you prefer.
How to Find and Replace Text in Notepad in Windows 10 & 11Windows NotePad, and most text editors, allow you to search and replace text. This is useful to find text, and if you make a repeated mistake, you can replace any text with something else.
Why Rebooting Your Router (Usually) WorksBy now, we all know that unplugging your router for 10 seconds is the first thing to do when you have internet issues. Most internet providers will ask you to do this first, even if you already have. Why is rebooting a router so effective and the go-to troubleshooting answer?
How to Enable or Disable Offline Files in Windows 10 & 11Offline Files allows Windows users to make files available even when not connected to a Network. By enabling Offline Files, users can still access the files or folders you select when you are offline, or the network is slow.
Is FloC enabled and How to Opt-Out in Google ChromeGoogle is currently testing FloC (Federated Learning of Cohorts), designed to replace cookies while allowing the process to be more secure. Here's how to check for and disable FloC.
4 Ways to Show Your Desktop in Windows 10 & 11Often, you want to show your Desktop in Windows 10. Here are 4 ways you can show your Desktop quickly at any time.
How to Fix Windows 10 Activation Error 0x80070422 & 11Windows 10 Activation Error 0x80070422 is commonly seen with Windows 10 Pro, and you are asking to validate Windows. Here are some possible solutions to the problem.
How to Auto-Delete Your Web and App Activity in Google ChromeGoogle Chrome gives you the option to delete both your web and app activity every 3, 18, or 36 months. Here's how to turn Auto-Delete on or off.
How to Create a Basic HTML Document in Your BrowserWhile there are thousands of apps and online tools to create an HTML document, you might not be aware that you've had the ability to create an HTML worksheet all along.
How to Create a Show Desktop Shortcut in Windows 10 & 11In the farthest bottom-right corner of your Desktop is a small box you can click on to show your Desktop. It's sometimes hard to reach, or maybe you'd like to have the Show Desktop shortcut somewhere else?
How to Update to Windows 10 21H1 (May 2021)If you're debating whether to upgrade to Windows 10 21H1 May 2021 Update, here's all you need to know.
How to Enable or Disable Win32 Long Paths in Windows 10 & 11Enabling Win32 long paths will allow manifested Win32 applications and Windows Store applications to access paths beyond the normal 260 character limit per node on file systems that support it. Enabling this setting will cause the long paths to be accessible within the process.
How to Enable or Disable File History in Windows 10 & 11File History is a backup option in Windows 8 and 10 that allows you to replace lost, damaged, or deleted files. Users who maintain their own backup, or prefer to use Reset This PC or Windows Repair, might want to disable File History.
What Does SGTM Mean?SGTM is an acronym you might have come across typically in conversations with texting or social media, for example.
How to Retrieve Your WI-FI Network Adapter InformationUsing the Command Prompt or PowerShell, you can quickly retrieve all of the information you might need about your Wi-Fi adapter for any skill level.
How to Enable or Disable Amazon 1-Click OrderingAmazon offers the option to place an order with one click using your default address with a feature they call "1-Click." Here's how to enable or disable 1-Click on Amazon.
How to View and Manage Downloads in Microsoft Edge in Windows 10 & 11Microsoft Edge keeps track of your downloads, and you can jump directly to your downloads folder from Microsft Edge to move, copy, or delete any downloaded files.
How to Run VMware Full Screen and Hide the 1 Pixel ToolbarIf you use VMware, it's easy to miss how to run it in full screen. Once you start using full screen, another issue is a 1-pixel sliver at the top of your screen. Both are easy to take care of.
How to Add or Remove Registry Favorites in Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7If you find yourself editing the same registry keys frequently, you can add those keys to your favorites so you can quickly jump to that registry location as easily as you would a bookmark in your web browser.
How to Reset and Renew Your Internet Connection With a Batch FileWhen diagnosing Windows internet problems, it's not unusual to flush the cache, reset Winsock, and reset TCP/IP, essentially completely resetting your network connection. All three steps take some time to do from the Command Prompt, but our batch file can do all of the above for you, saving you time and aggravation.
How to Change the Recycle Bin Icon in Windows 10 & 11If you're looking for a different Recycle Bin icon, it's simple to do for any skill level.
How to Add a Folder or Drive to File Explorer Libraries in Windows 10 & 11If you frequently use Libraries in File Explorer, you can add a folder or driver to a Library allowing you quick access to similar folders.
How to Use Large or Small Taskbar Buttons in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 offers the option to show smaller Taskbar icons. It's easy to do. Here's how.
Your Version of Windows 10 Has Reached End of ServiceSome Windows 10 users might see a tray icon that states, Your version of Windows 10 has reached the end of service. Click to download a newer version of Windows 10 to stay supported.
Enable or Disable Shopping in Microsoft EdgeWhen shopping online with Microsoft Edge, the browser will automatically search for the best price including coupons, and rebates. You can also see price trends and other prices. Shopping in Microsoft Edge is on by default. Here's how to turn it off.
How to Create a Switch User Shortcut in Windows 10 & 11If you use more than one account on Windows 10, you can easily create a shortcut to Switch Users, including Windows 10 Home, which lacks the Swith User executable.
What is Geofencing?When looking at Location options in Windows 10, you might have noticed the Geofencing option. While it might sound like Geocaching, it's not even close. Here's all you need to know.
How to Upgrade Windows 10 Home to Windows 10 ProfessionalIf you are currently using Windows 10 Home and want to upgrade to Windows 10 Pro, here's all you need to know.
How to Enable, Disable, or Change Your Location in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 can use your location by using your IP address and Wi-Fi positioning. You can enable or disable Location or choose what apps are allowed to use your location.
How to Turn Item Check Boxes On or Off in File ExplorerFile Explorer has an option to use checkboxes, allowing you to choose multiple folders, files, and drives. You can turn this option on or off easily.
How to Clear Recent Pictures in MS Paint on Windows 10 & 11Microsoft Paint keeps track of opened images so you can access them quickly from the File menu. What MS Paint does not do, is give you the option to delete some, or all, recent pictures.
How to Change the Default Email Notification Sound on Windows 10 & 11If your bored with your email notification sound or would like something new and different, you can easily choose or use your own sound.
What Is a MD File?If you have a file on your hard drive with the MD extension, here's what it is and how to open it.
What Does Bussin Mean?You might have heard to slang Bussin on social media or in real life and wondered what it meant. Don't be a Janelle; let us explain what Bussin means.
How to Use Task Manager Eco Mode in Windows 10 & 11Microsoft is adding an Eco Mode to Task Manager. Eco Mode can reduce the CPU load on most processes by reducing the process's priority, resulting in a faster, more energy-efficient computer.
Google Chrome - An Error Occurred While Checking for UpdatesWhen updating Google Chrome, you might receive an error that says, "An error occurred while checking for updates." Here's how to resolve this error.
Import Bookmarks, Passwords, and More From Chrome and Firefox to Microsoft EdgeMicrosoft Edge would like you to try their web browser, so naturally, they have made it easy to copy all of your settings from Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Edge Legacy, Internet Explorer, or even an HTML file.
How to Use Vertical Tabs in Microsoft EdgeThe Chromium-based Microsoft Edge continues to improve, and vertical tabs might be another reason to consider Microsoft Edge. Here's how to activate and use vertical tabs.
How to Create a Desktop Background Shortcut to Settings or Control PanelWindows 10 uses Settings to access your Desktop background options. It's easy to create a shortcut to your Background option in Settings, the classic Control Panel, or both.
How to Show Drive Letter Before Drive Names in File ExplorerWhen you open This PC in File Explorer, you are shown a list of drives and more. By default, you will see a drive name followed by the drive letter. We can reverse the order with a little registry trick, so you see the drive letter first.
How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x800F0825One Windows Update error people encounter is error code 0x800F0825. The most frequently seen error message reads, "0x800f0825 – CBS_E_CANNOT_UNINSTALL – Package cannot be uninstalled."
How to Remove All Saved Passwords in Chrome, Firefox, and EdgeOver time, you may have accumulated a lot of passwords in Chrome, Firefox, or Edge. You might want to start clean, or maybe you decided it's time to stop using your browser's password manager. Here's how to delete all saved passwords at once.
How to Create a Website QR (Bar Code) in DuckDuckGoIf you ever needed to create a QR code, DuckDuckGo makes it easier than any other method we've seen.
How to Uninstall Programs When the Uninstall Button Is Grayed OutWhen trying to uninstall some apps, you might find the Uninstall option is grayed out. Here are some options for you to try.
How to Delete Cookies in Microsoft EdgeMicrosoft Edge gives you the option to delete all or some cookies at any point. Here's how.
What Does Bae Mean?You might have seen the acronym BAE used in real life or on social media and wondered what it meant?
How to Enable or Disable Loudness Equalization in Windows 7-10Loudness Equalization is a feature in Windows that attempts to keep sounds at the same level. If you're finding that sound on your computer is constantly fluctuating, you might want to make sure Loudness Equalization is on, if available.
How to Reset the Registry Editor (Regedit) To DefaultIf you use the Registry Editor frequently, you might want to reset the size and position.
How to Disable Steps Recorder in Windows 10 & 11Steps Recorder (Problem Steps Recorder) can help troubleshoot problems by capturing a screenshot for every mouse or keyboard click. If you don't use Steps Recorder, you can disable it in the registry or Group Policy Editor.
4 Ways to Change the Default Sound Output Device in Windows 10 & 11Any device that can play sounds on your computer, including speakers and headphones, will be listed as an output device. Sometimes your sound might not be working, requiring you to select the right output device. Here are the different ways to change the default sound device.
How to Enable or Disable Wake on LAN in Windows 10 & 11Wake On Lan is a Windows feature that allows your network card to wake your computer from sleep or shut down over the network or remotely. Here's how to enable or disable Wake On Lan (WOL).
How to Find Windows Accessories, Windows System, and Windows Administrative Tools FoldersCurrently, in Windows 10, there are numerous tools available located in different locations or folders in the Start Menu. Starting with Windows 10 21H2, Microsoft has moved the Windows Accessories, Windows System, and Windows Administrative Tools folders into a single folder called Windows Tools.
How to Stop Windows Antivirus From Sending Files to MicrosoftWindows 10 antivirus, by default, will send suspicious files to Microsoft. This option can be disabled.
How to Play or Convert a WebM FileWhen saving files from the internet, you might have saved a file in the WebM format. Here's all you need to know to play or convert WebM files.
How to Save Your Favorites Places on Google Maps on Mobile and PCGoogle Maps is easy to use but has so many features one might not have noticed the option to save your favorite places to custom lists.
Registry Editor Not Working, Opening, or CrashesWhen trying to use Registry Editor and it's not working, including not opening, crashing, or the error message "Registry Editor has stopped working," here are some steps to try.
Change Windows 10 & 11 Theme Without Activating WindowsWhile you can use Windows 10 without activating it, there are some limitations, most notably that you can't change the wallpaper or theme.
How to Remove Reading List From Google ChromeGoogle Chrome has added a reading list that allows you to save websites to read later. The problem is that it takes up bookmark bar space, and apparently, Google likes it so much that they have hidden the setting to remove it.
Why Is the C Drive the Default Windows Drive?Regardless of your operating system or computer, your hard drive, by default, is always the C drive. Have you ever wondered why?
How to Make Older Apps Compatible With Windows 10 & 11Most older apps will run in Windows 10, but some might run poorly or not at all. In this situation, we can try to run the app in compatibility mode.
How to Set, Change, or Add a Library Save LocationWindows 10 has libraries including CameraRoll, Documents, Music, Pictures, and Videos. You can set, change, or add a location as the default save folder if you like.
How to Change Operating System Name in Windows 10 & 11 Boot OptionsIf you dual-boot operating systems, it can be convenient to add a custom name to help you better identify the operating system you want to boot when you see "Choose an operating system" when prompted by the boot manager.
How to Enable or Disable Auto Save Screenshots in OneDriveMicrosoft OneDrive can automatically save any screenshots you take to your OneDrive account. Here's how to enable or disable that feature.
How to Enable or Disable Auto Save Photos and Videos in OneDriveMicrosoft OneDrive can automatically save any photos or videos when you connect a camera, phone, or another device to your PC.
How to Create a Startup Apps ShortcutYou can keep your computer running at its best by keeping an eye on a few things and doing some occasional maintenance. You want to watch out for Startup apps so you know what's using resources every time you start your computer. Here's how to create a Startup shortcut on your Desktop.
How to Delete Locked or Undeletable Files or FoldersIf you're having trouble deleting a locked or undeletable file or folder from your hard drive, here are some options.
How to Fix Microsoft Store Error 0xc03f40c8When downloading or updating your apps from the Windows Store, you might encounter error code 0xc03f40c8. Here are some steps to fix the problem.
Windows Update or Activation Error 0xc004f07When trying to update or activate Windows 10, you might see the error 0xc004f07. Here are some steps you can try to resolve this error and or install the latest updates.
Windows Update Error 0x80070541Windows Update error 0x80070541 often appears when trying to install a Feature update in Windows 10.
How to Find Files Quickly in Windows 10 & 11 With Star RatingsIf you use File Explorer search frequently, you can use the star rating system to assign 1-5 stars to many file types to locate them easily at any time.
Bitcoin 101Bitcoin is something everyone has heard about but often doesn't understand. Here's is a primer on Bitcoin that we hope makes it understandable.
How to Restart or Reset Taskbar in Windows 10 & 11If you are having issues with your Taskbar, including freezing, disappearing, or errors, it's possible to restart or reset it.
How to Uninstall Programs With PowerShell or Command Prompt in Windows 10 & 11There are numerous ways to uninstall a program, and using the Command Prompt or PowerShell is one option.
Apple Maps Now Shows You COVID-19 Testing and Vaccine LocationsApple has added the option to find where to get the COVID-19 vaccine or test to Apple Maps.
How to Enable Firefox Proton NowIn May of 2021, Firefox will be getting a long-overdue new look and interface code-named Firefox Proton. Here's how you can check out Firefox Proton now.
Open Multiple Websites With a Batch File in Windows 10 & 11If you start your web browser and frequently visit the same websites, you can create a batch file to open all of your favorite websites at once.
How to Change the Search Box Text in Windows 10 & 11The Windows 10 search box will show "Type here to search" by default. If you like, you can change this to anything you like by editing the registry.
How to Screenshot an Entire Webpage With Your iPhoneiPhone users who take screenshots are surprised to find out that they can save an entire website as an image. Here's how.
How to Change the Default Downloads Folder in Microsoft EdgeMicrosoft Edge should save anything you download to your Downloads folder or library. If your downloads are going to a different folder, or you'd prefer a different default download folder, here's how to find the settings.
How to Find Your System Uptime in Windows 10 & 11Your System Uptime is saved in Windows, keeping track of the last time your computer was restarted or rebooted. Many system administrators can use this information to gauge a computer's reliability, and so can you.
How to Change the Default Downloads Folder in Google ChromeGoogle Chrome should save anything you download to your Downloads folder or library. If your downloads are going to a different folder, or you'd prefer a different default download folder, here's how to find the settings.
How to Improve Network Speed in Windows 10 &11 With IRPStackSizeA little-known and less understood setting called IRPStackSize (I/O Request Packet Stack Size) might be able to improve your network performance by improving how many buffers your computer can use simultaneously.
How to Reset Windows Search in Windows 10 & 11Repairing the search on Windows 10 has numerous possible fixes, but using the Reset Windows Search PowerShell Script is a simple, easy solution to try first.
How to Create a Shortcut to Colors in Windows 10 & 11If you like to tinker with the color and appearance of Windows 10, you can easily create a Desktop shortcut for easy access.
Three Ways to Display Universal Windows Apps (Windows Store Apps) Full ScreenUniversal Windows apps or modern apps in Windows 10 can be resized or used in full screen.
How to Enable or Disable System Restore or Configuration in Windows 10 & 11System Restore can undo changes to your computer following a problem. If you use Reset This PC, have a backup image, or already keep a registry backup, you can disable System Restore.
What Does Tea Mean?If you've heard the slang term tea or t, here's all you need to know.
Add Windows Update to The Control Panel in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 users who prefer the Control Panel don't have Windows Updates available. Using our registry files, you can add Windows update to the Control Panel.
How to Show or Hide Details Pane in File ExplorerFile Explorer has numerous ways to give you an appearance that's most comfortable for you. One such example is the Details pane.
What Does YOLO Mean?If you've seen the term YOLO on social media and wondered what it meant, here's all you need to know.
How to Create a One Drive Folder ShortcutIf you use OneDrive, you might find it easier to create a Desktop shortcut to open your OneDrive folder directly.
How to Change the Default New Folder Name in Windows 10 & 11When you create a new folder in Windows 10, the default name is New Folder. If you like, with a registry edit, we can change the default New Folder name.
How to Search Any Website With GoogleDid you know you can search a specific website using Google? Here's how.
How to Change the Shape of Text in Microsoft PublisherMicrosoft Publisher has a feature that allows you to change the shape of the text. This can be handy for headers or even creating a logo.
The 12 Best Linux Distributions for Windows UsersEntering the world of Linux can be complicated for new users. Today we're going to break down the process and find the best Linux distribution that's most comfortable for Windows users.
How to Silence Unknown Callers on iPhonesIf you get numerous unrecognized numbers (scams) and have an iPhone, you can block unknown calls. Here's how.
What is a 'One Ring' or 'Wangiri' Scam Call?One Ring or "Wangiri" call scams are making the rounds again and have been going on for decades. Here's all you need to know.
What Happens When You Accept All Cookies?All websites are legally required to inform you about cookies and how they are used. You've seen the prompts to accept or reject all cookies. But, what really happens when you click Accept All?
What is a WebP Image?When saving images from a website, you might have ended up with an image in the WebP format. Here's all the info on the WebP file format.
How to Fix Windows 10 & 11 Photos App Running SlowThe Windows 10 Photos app is something people love or hate. One of the reasons people hate it is the slow performance. Let's look at some possible solutions and other options.
How to Check For Weak Passwords in Google ChromeIf you manage your passwords and logins with Google Chrome, it can monitor those passwords and let you know if a password is weak or leaked in a data breach. Here's how.
How to Change Desktop Icon Spacing in Windows 10 & 11The Windows 10 Desktop has a default setting to keep each icon's horizontal and vertical space a certain distance apart. This tutorial explains how you can have more or less space between your Desktop icons.
How to Change Desktop Icon Size in Windows 10 & 11If you frequently use your desktop to launch programs, you might be interested in changing your desktop icons' size.
How to Clear Windows Product Key From the RegistryWhen you install and activate a valid Windows key in Windows 7,8, or 10, that product key is stored in the registry. While that makes the key easy to find with a third-party app, it also makes it easy to steal.
How to Create a Custom Barcode in Microsoft Word or WordPadWe're all familiar with barcodes, but did you know you can create a custom barcode for free using Microsoft Word or WordPad?
4 Ways to Get Microsoft Office For FreeMicrosoft Office is an excellent office suite and well worth the price for most. If you only use Office occasionally and can't afford the $70 a year or $149 for Office 2019, we have some solutions for you.
How to Fix Microsoft Paint 3D Not Working, Opening or Error 0x803F8001Error 0x803F8001 in Windows 10 is an error code generated by Microsoft Paint because of a sync problem or corrupted files.
MSVCR71.dll is MissingSome apps or games require MSVCR71.dd to run properly. If you receive an error including "The program can’t start because MSVCR71.dll is missing from your computer, Try reinstalling the program to fix this problem," then try the following steps.
How to Add Optimize Drives Context Menu in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 has a feature called Optimize Drives that allows you to analyze and defragment your hard drives. You can also enable or disable a schedule to optimize your drives. This tutorial shows you how to add Optimize Drives to the Context Menu using our registry files or manually editing the registry.
How to Backup BitLocker Recovery Key in Windows 10 & 11A BitLocker recovery key is a special key created when you enable Bitlocker Drive Encryption. Windows can back up your key by printing it, saving it to your Microsoft account, a USB flash drive, or a file.
How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80240023Windows Update may fail with an error code 0x80240023. Try these steps to resolve the problem.
How to Remove a Smartphone or Smart TV From AmazonLike many, I am a huge fan of Amazon, and I also purchase a new smartphone every year and a TV every few years. Eventually, you have a bunch of devices you no longer own attached to your Amazon account. Deregistering a Smart Tv or Smartphone should be simple, but there's a trick to finding and removing your devices.
How to Change Volume of Other Sounds When Making Phone CallsIf you use your Windows 10 computer to make phone calls with apps like Skype, you have discovered that Windows 10 will lower other sounds during calls by 80%. Here's how to change that.
How to Resize the Start Menu in Windows 10For most of us, the Windows 10 Start Menu is a big deal. Today, we're going to show you how easy it is to make the Start Menu any size you want.
How to Create a Settings Shortcut in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 Settings is easy to access, but if you like, you can also create a Desktop shortcut, which then can be pinned to the Start Menu or Taskbar.
How to Create a Bluetooth Shortcut in Windows 10 & 11If you need to access your Bluetooth settings frequently, you can create a Desktop, Start Menu, or Taskbar shortcut for easy access anytime.
How to Check for and Install Windows Updates in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 will automatically check for updates daily. You usually will get a lot of smaller or 0-day updates with many larger updates released on Patch Tuesday. Here's how to check for and install the latest updates manually.
Turn Peek at Desktop on or Off in Windows 10Peek at Desktop allows you to click on the furthest right-hand corner of the Taskbar to preview your Desktop without having to minimize any windows. You can also disable this feature if you like.
How to Show or Hide Number of New Notifications in Action CenterThe Action Center in Windows 10 can show you numerous notifications that might need your attention and how many notifications are available. If you like, you can easily hide the number of notifications.
How to Clear Virtual Memory Page File at Shutdown in WindowsWindows uses virtual memory when your computer's RAM fills up. Because you never know what was stored there, it's a good idea to clear the page file at shutdown in Windows 10, 8, and 7.
How to Limit Wireless Data Usage by Using a Metered ConnectionWindows 10 users who have a limited data plan and want more control over their data usage can make any internet connection a metered connection.
How to Enable Dictation in Windows 10 & 11Dictation in Windows 10 is part of the Speech features allowing you to make text entry easier. Here's how to get started with Dictation.
What is WWAHost.exe (Microsoft WWA Host)?WWAHost.exe (Microsoft WWA Host) is an executable that can be found in the System32 folder in Windows, starting with Windows 8.
How to Fix Microsoft Store Error 0x800704C6When downloading, installing, or updating your apps from the Windows Store, you might encounter error code 0x800704C6. Here are some steps to fix the problem.
How to Enable or Disable Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) in WindowsInternet Connection Sharing (ICS) allows you to share your Windows 10, 8, and 7 internet connection with other computers on your Local Area Internet. You can enable or disable ICS following this guide.
How to Disable Game Recording and Broadcasting in Windows 10 & 11The Game DVR is part of the Xbox app that lets you record and share game and application clips and screenshots. Here's how you can disable the Windows Game Recording and Broadcasting features of Game DVR, Game bar, and broadcasting for all users in Windows 10.
How to Create a 'Reset this PC' Shortcut in Windows 10 & 11If you use Reset This Pc regularly, you can easily create a shortcut on your Desktop in a few steps.
What Is the Panther Folder in Windows 10 & 11?If you've spotted Panther folders on your Windows 10 computer, you might have wondered what they were for and if they can be deleted.
Microsoft Store Error 0x80073d230x80073d23 is an error that can appear when launching or uninstalling a Microsoft Store app. The error message might state that it can't launch or uninstall the app.
How to Install the Aero Lite Theme in Windows 10 & 11The Aerolite theme can make the colors of Windows borders and title bars stand out more in Windows 10, although it's not for everyone.
How to Change Active Title Bar Text Color in Windows 10 & 11Any active Windows in Windows 10 will have a title bar with the default color of black for the text. Here's how you can change the title bar color.
How A Group of Reddit Users Changed the Stock Market ForeverMany people are confused by what is going on with WallStreetBets, GameStop stock, and Robinhood. I found this great post that really explained it better than any of these commercial news websites. So, I edited and posted it to my Facebook page, and people loved it so much, I am sharing it with you.
How to Always Show More Details in File Explorer Transfer DialogBy default, Windows will show you minimal details displaying the progress when copying files in File Explorer. You have the option to click on "More details" when transferring, but making More Details the default isn't a Windows option.
What Does Stonk Mean?Stonk is a word you might have seen on social media that can easily be confused as a misspelling of stock.
This Device Has Failed and Is Undergoing a Reset (Code 54)This device has failed and is undergoing a reset (Code 54) is an error that can appear for different reasons, including connecting your iPhone to your computer, among other possibilities.
How to Find, Open, or Recover an ASD File in Microsoft WordMicrosoft Word features Auto Recovery, which allows you to save a document at different intervals. The document is temporarily saved in the file format ASD.
How to Create a Printers Folder ShortcutIf you frequently use your printers, you might be interested in adding a Printer shortcut to your desktop, which can then be moved to the Start Menu, Taskbar, and more.
How to Hide or Show Taskbar Notification Area IconsIn Windows 10, you can find numerous icons on the right side of the Taskbar that can show you notifications or launch these apps. You can decide if you want to see all icons or individually select which icons appear.
How to Turn Manage Default Printer on or off in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 features a unique setting that can set the last used printer as your default printer. While this might work for most people, you might want to manage the default printer yourself.
What Does HODL Mean?HODL is an internet acronym that many people might not be familiar with.
4 Ways to Change User Account Types in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 allows you to add family and other users who have their own unique sign-in and Desktop. Each user can be a Standard User or Administrator. Here's how to switch users from Standard to Administrator or Administrator to Standard.
What Does TMI Mean?TMI is an acronym you may come across almost anywhere, including text messages, social media, online forums, and even in person.
How to Show or Change Color on Title Bars and Borders in Windows 10 & 11If you spend any time changing themes or colors on your Windows 10 computer, you might appreciate being able to change the colors of your title bars and borders.
Add or Remove Network Icon on Lock and Sign-in ScreenWhen you see the network icon at the lock or sign-in screen on Windows 10, you can use the Network icon to connect or disconnect from the network. You can remove the network icon if you prefer.
How to See Your Active Power Plan in WindowsWindows has numerous default Power Plans available, including Balanced, Power Saver, High Performance, Ultimate Performance, and Custom. Here's how to see what Power Plan you're currently using.
What Does OML Mean?OML is an acronym you might have seen on social media, the comments, or even text messages. You might have even spotted it with a hashtag at some point.
How to Turn Show All Folders on or off in File ExplorerFile Explorer has an option to show all folders, which can then show you a few important shortcuts you might frequently use, including the Control Panel and Recycle Bin.
12 Ways You Can Still Open the Control Panel in Windows 10 & 11The Control Panel in Windows 10 has largely been replaced with the more user-friendly Settings. Many a geek knows that the good stuff is still in the Control Panel. Here are 5 ways to open the Control Panel in Windows 10.
How to Enable Windows 10X Boot Logo AnimationThe new Windows 10X features a different boot logo animation that can be enabled in any edition of Windows 10 by editing the registry or downloading our registry files.
Open Quick Link (Win+X) Power Options to Control Panel or SettingsWindows 10 now opens Power Options to Settings instead of the Control Panel. If you like, you can modify this action so that you can open Power Options in the Control Panel using the Windows 10 Power Menu (Windows Key + X).
How to Disable Netflix AutoplayNetflix has two autoplay options: autoplay the next episode and (the more annoying) autoplay previews. Here's how to enable or disable Netflix autoplay.
How to Enable or Disable Sticky Notes InsightsSticky Notes features Insights, where it can read web addresses, phone numbers, emails, stock symbols, and more. Insights can then offer to remind, call, visit a website, set a reminder, or more. It's a neat feature that we think you'll like.
How to Change the Registry Editor Font in WindowsIf you frequently use the registry editor, you might appreciate the ability to change the font and style to make it more comfortable for you to read.
How to Pin a World Clock to Windows 10 & 11 Start MenuWindows 10 Alarms & Clock features a Timer, Stopwatch, Alarm, and a World Clock. If you like to keep an eye on different time zones, you can pin as many clocks as you want to the Start Menu in Windows 10.
How to Keep the Windows 10 & 11 Action Center Always Open Until ClosedThe Windows 10 Action Center has access to many Windows settings and, of course, Windows notifications. If you click anywhere on the screen, the Action Center closes by default. Using or registry files, you can force it open until closed.
How to Reset Local Security Policy in WindowsThe local security policy of a system is a set of information about a local computer's security. Here's how to reset the Local Security Policy in Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, and 10.
Automatically Check for Windows Updates ShortcutWindows Updates will check and install daily, but if you'd like to speed up the process of checking for updates manually, you can create a shortcut or download our shortcut file.
How to Turn Task Manager Always on Top on or Off in Windows 10 & 11Task Manager allows you to see and modify processes, performance, app history, startup, users, details, and service. Sometimes you might want Task Manager to always be on top when in use. Here's how.
Enable or Disable File Size Information in Folder Tips When you hover your mouse over any folder, you will see a balloon showing you the date created, size, and partial files list. Removing the Size can be useful for performance in some situations if you don't need to know the folder file size.
How to Create a Printer Queue Shortcut in WindowsThe printer queue in Windows allows you to see and manage any pending printing jobs. If you use your printer and open the queue frequently, having a shortcut is a handy option.
How to Create a Administrator Command Prompt ShortcutIf you use the Command Prompt frequently, you might appreciate creating a Desktop shortcut so you can launch the Command Prompt as Administrator quickly and easily.
How to Switch Between HKLM and HKCU in Registry EditorWhen editing the registry, you might find that you need to edit the same key in HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE and HKEY_CURRENT_USER. Rather than typing or navigate to both locations, you can easily jump from HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE to HKEY_CURRENT_USER.
How to Add Disk Cleanup to Context Menu in Windows 10 & 11 Windows 10 offers Disk Cleanup to clean your computer of junk files. While there are better third-party apps, Disk Cleanup gets the job done. This tutorial explains how to add a Disk Cleanup context menu shortcut when you right-click on any drive.
How to "Run as Different User" in Windows 10 & 11"Run as a different user" is a lesser-known option that allows you to run .bat, .cmd, .exe, .msc, and .msi with different permissions that the currently logged-in user. You can save yourself the trouble of login out and back in using this method.
How to See if a Process is Running as Administrator (Elevated Privileges)Some processes require elevated privileges or being run as an Administrator. Here's how to see the status of a running app in Windows 10.
3 Ways to Rotate an Image in Windows 10 & 11If you need to rotate an image in Windows 10 and don't want to download a third-party application, here are three ways to rotate an image in Windows 10.
How to Show All Open Windows Stacked, Cascading, or Side By SideWindows 10 offers a feature you might not have noticed that allows you to show all windows as cascading, stacked, or side-by-side.
Enable or Disable Save Passwords With Microsoft Edge in Windows 10 & 11Microsoft Edge has a built-in password manager. You can enable or disable the password manager as well as a few other options.
Some Security Settings Are Missing or Have Been Changed"Some security settings are missing or have been changed" is an error that can appear when running Windows troubleshooters.
How to Change, Save, and Delete Sound Schemes in WindowsYou can customize Windows to play different sounds for events, save your choices, or even turn the sound off completely.
How to Disable the Windows 10 & 11 Startup DelayAs Windows 10 starts up, it doesn't start loading your startup apps immediately to dedicate more resources to load system services and files. If you have a fast computer and particularly an SSD, you can disable this feature and have even your apps start loading the moment Windows boots instantly up.
5 Ways to Open File Explorer Folder OptionsFile Explorer folder options allow you to choose how File Explorer responds, what you can or can't view, and modify search settings. Here's how to access Folder Options for File Explorer.
How to Change the Microsoft Edge Homepage LayoutMicrosoft Edge features a page layout that you can customize to suit your personal preferences.
How to Find Your Current Version and Build of Windows 10 & 11If you ever wondered what version and build of Windows 10 you currently have, it's easy to find out. Here's how.
6 Ways to Open Settings in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 Settings allows you to customize or reset your Windows 10 computer. There are numerous ways to access Settings, which is good to know if your favorite way isn't working or maybe to find a different way to suit your needs.
How to Always Boot Windows Into Advanced Startup SettingsAdvanced Startup Settings allows you to choose from a bunch of troubleshooting options whenever the computer reboots. With a simple Command Prompt command, we can automatically force your computer to boot to Advanced Startup Settings.
How to Remove or Customize News and Interests in Windows 10Starting with Windows 10 Build 21286, there is now a News and interest option that directly shows the weather and news from your Taskbar. Here's how to remove or customize it.
How to Disable the Windows Key on Your KeyboardWhile the Windows key on your keyboard can be useful for most, some people might want to disable it. We can disable the Windows key in the registry.
How to Pin or Unpin Items to the Windows 10 & 11 Start MenuThe Windows 10 Start Menu is a pretty big deal. One way to make the Start Menu work for you would be to pin frequently used programs or applications to the Start Menu for quick access.
The 6 Best Password Managers for 2022Password managers are an essential tool for everyone. Although the Internet's most popular password remains or includes 123456, we all know better. Give us 5 minutes of your time, and we'll help you pick the best password manager for you in 2021.
How to Find Your Hard Drive Serial NumberAll hard drives have a serial number to help you identify your hard drive, often for warranty purposes. Here's how to find your hard drive serial number.
How to Save a Search in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 File Explorer offers a search feature, and you can save frequently used searches to save time.
4 Classic Windows and DOS Operating Systems That Run in Your BrowserComputers and Windows operating systems have evolved so much that you can now run many of them in your web browser.
What Does #BHFYP Mean?While browsing social media, especially Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, you might have spotted the hashtag #bhfyp and wondered what it was all about.
How to Stop Windows Media Player From Automatically Downloading CodecsWindows Media Player will download codecs as needed. If you use third-party codecs or want to save bandwidth, you can prevent Windows Media Player from automatically downloading codecs.
Enable or Disable Automatic Updates in Microsoft StoreThe Microsoft Store gives you the option to update apps automatically. You can easily enable or disable this at any time.
Add Win+X Classic Menu to Desktop Context MenuMicrosoft is removing or hiding the classic Control Panel and replacing it with Settings. Bu using registry files, we can add the classic Win+X menu to the Desktop Context Menu.
How to Create a Wi-Fi Settings Shortcut in Windows 10 & 11If you access Wi-Fi Settings frequently, you can easily create, or download, a shortcut for quick access.
What is Mansplaining?You might have heard the term Mansplaining in your travels and wondered what it meant. There are a few different variations of Mansplaining, but the truth is simple enough.
Disable Right-Click Context Menu in Windows 10 & 11 Start MenuWhen you right-click on any item in your Windows 10 Start Menu, you have numerous options, including move, resize, uninstall, unpin, open file location, and more. You can entirely disable the right-click Context Menu in your Start Menu by editing the registry or using Group Policy Editor.
How to Disable the Windows 10 & 11 Photos App Delete Confirmation PromptWhen deleting a photo in the Windows 10 Photos app, you will always receive a prompt asking if you're sure you want to delete the file. If you like, you can easily disable this prompt.
What is qwertyuiopasdfghjklzxcvbnm?qwertyuiopasdfghjklzxcvbnm is something you can type but possibly never considered.
Why Does the F and J Keys Have Bumps on a Keyboard?When typing, you might have noticed that the F and J keys have small bumps in the shape of a thin line and wondered why?
How to Enable NVIDIA (Ultra) Low Latency ModeNVIDIA (Ultra) Low Latency mode is a feature for NVIDIA video cards allowing gamers to achieve the best frame rates and graphics for GPU-bound games in DirectX 9 and 11 games.
How to Enable Dark Mode in Microsoft EdgeMicrosoft Edge allows you to decide if you want to use Dark, Light, or Default modes for the Chromium-based web browser.
How to Make Microsoft Edge Download PDF Instead of OpeningMicrosoft Edge, by default, will open PDf browsers directly in the browser. If you prefer, you can force Edge to download a PDf rather than open it.
How to Choose Fahrenheit or Celsius in Windows 10 & 11 Weather AppWindows 10 comes with a weather app allowing you to see the past, present, and future weather and forecasts. You can change from Fahrenheit or Celsius easily. Here's how. There are three ways to change from Fahrenheit or Celsius, depending on your preference or needs. Open the Weather app by clicking on Start > Weather. 1: Click on the F or C next to the current temperature to choose Fahrenheit or Celsius. 2: Press Alt + Enter to switch between Fahrenheit or Celsius. 3: Click the Settings gear in the lower-left corner. Look for Show t...
How to Find Out Which Windows 10 & 11 Edition You HaveWindows 10 is available in multiple editions, each having different features or geared toward a specific user type. Here's how to find out what edition of Windows 10 you currently have.
How to Enable or Disable Advanced Indexing OptionsWindows 10, 8, and 7 use the Index for faster search results. You can narrow down the search criteria, but most geeks like to disable Indexing for better performance.
NVIDIA GeForce Experience C++ Runtime ErrorNVIDIA GeForce Experience C++ Runtime Error can appear at any time, most often when updating but also when uninstalling. Here are some known steps to resolve the problem.
How to Delete Half Watched Shows on NetflixNetflix lets you pick up from wherever you left off on any movie or series by looking for "Continue watching" or "Your List." If you decided to stop watching something on Netflix, how do you get rid of partially watched shows?
How to Disable Access to Folder Options in File ExplorerBy accessing Folder options in File Explorer, you can find dozens of settings, including showing hidden files, reset folder views, hide file name extensions, search options, single or double-click, clear history, and more. If you don't want people to access File Explorer options, you can disable access.
What Is a GUI?If you've downloaded software or worked in Windows or Linux, you might have seen the acronym GUI occasionally. So, what does GUI mean?
How to Analyze Drive Space With Microsoft DiskUsageWindows 10 now has a disk space analysis tool to help you discover where all of your hard drive space is being wasted.
How to Validate Steam Cache or File IntegrityValidating your Steam cache is something every Steam user should know how to do. If your game doesn't run, odds are someone will tell you to validate your cache. Here's how.
Steam Game Stuck on Preparing to LaunchIf your Steam games won't start and you're stuck at a "Preparing to Launch," try the following steps to get your games working again.
How to Use Caret Browsing in Microsoft EdgeCaret browsing is a feature in Microsoft Edge that allows you to select text with your keyboard.
Microsoft Defender Antivirus Error 0x80004004Error 0x80004004 in Windows Security is often caused by a failure to update the latest definitions for Microsoft Defender Defender Antivirus.
Here Are All the Available Microsoft Edge Keyboard ShortcutsMicrosoft has made a list available of all the keyboard shortcuts in Microsoft Edge. Many are the same keyboard shortcuts you might already know.
How to Disable the Run Command in WindowsThe Windows Key + R allows you to run many system utilities, including regedit, msinfo32, services, MSConfig, and much more. You can disable the run command, so other users can't use it.
Error 0xc00d5212, This Item Was Encoded in a Format That's Not SupportedWhile playing your videos in Windows Media Player or the Movies & TV app, you might receive an error code 0xc00d5212 with the message "This item was encoded in a format that's not supported," and find yourself redirected to purchase the HEVC codecs from Microsoft or stuck unable to play videos. Here's how to solve the problem for free.
How to Add or Remove Microsoft Print to PDFMicrosoft Print to PDF allows you to print any document as a PDF, saving you the hassle of using third-party applications. In this article, we look at how you can add or remove Microsoft Print to PDF.
How to Change Text Cursor Thickness, Indicator, and ColorWe're all used to seeing the flashing cursor when we type, but did you know you make it wider and change the color? Here's how.
How to Clear Recent Accent Color History in Windows 10& 11Windows 10 allows you to save and select from the last 5 accent colors, but there's no option to clear the history. We can clear the accent color history by editing the registry or using our registry file.
How to Add Boot to UEFI Firmware Settings Desktop Context MenuBooting to UEFI firmware isn't always easy to do, but by adding the option to your Desktop Context Menu, you can always easily boot into your UEFI firmware settings.
How to Turn Visual Feedback on or OffWindows 10 touchscreen users can see visual feedback around their mouse pointer when you touch the screen. You can easily turn visual feedback on or off.
The Application Failed to Initialize Properly (0xc0000135)The application failed to initialize properly (0xc0000135) is an error that appears when launching a program or application. There are a few possible fixes for this problem.
What is a Troll or Trolling?If you've ever read a discussion on the internet, then you've seen trolls. In this article, we explain what a troll and trolling means.
How to Fix hid.dll ErrorsHid.dll, or Hid User Library, is a dynamic link library file that Windows requires for applications to work correctly.
Error 0x000007b, The Application Was Unable to Start up CorrectlyError 0x000007b, The application was unable to start up correctly on Windows 10 is a common error easily explained and fixed once you understand the cause.
The App You’re Trying to Install Isn’t a Microsoft Verified AppWindows 10 now features the Microsoft Store, where you can download trusted applications directly from Microsoft. Depending on your Windows settings, you might receive an error that says, "The app you’re trying to install isn’t a Microsoft verified app."
Windows Update or Upgrade Error 0XC1900103If you receive a Windows Upgrade error 0XC1900103, MOSETUP_E_COMPAT_TIMEOUT when updating or upgrading Windows 10, you might have a compatibility problem.
12 Ways to Open File Explorer in Windows 10 & 11File Explorer in Windows 10 is a must-have way to manage all of your files, including copying, pasting, deleting, moving, renaming, and more. This tutorial shows you different ways to open File Explorer to suit your preference.
What Does plz or pls Mean?The internet is full of acronyms, and plz is one you might encounter in conversations with friends, family, or colleagues.
What Does BRB Mean?The internet is full of acronyms, and BRB is one you might come across in conversations with friends, fellow gamers, family, or colleagues.
What is a Simp?The internet is full of slang, and SIMP is one word you might not be familiar with.
What Does GTG Mean?The internet is full of acronyms, and GTG is one you might come across in conversations with friends, family, or colleagues.
What Does ISWYDT or ICWYDT Mean?The internet is full of acronyms, and ISWYDT or ICWYDT is a classic one you might come across in conversations with friends, family, or colleagues.
Windows Upgrade or Update Error 0XC190010aWhen updating or upgrading Windows 10, you might have experienced an error with the code 0XC190010a. Try these steps to resolve the problem.
Windows Upgrade or Update Error 0XC190010dWhen updating or upgrading Windows 10, you might have experienced an error with the code 0XC190010d. Try these steps to resolve the problem.
How to Disable or Force Microsoft Edge InPrivate ModeMicrosoft Edge has a privacy feature called InPrivate Mode, the same as Incognito Mode in Google Chrome. InPrivate disables browsing history, site data, cookies, and any information you type in forms when active. This tutorial will show you how to disable InPrivate Mode.
How to Use Windows 10 & 11 Gaming Task ManagerMicrosoft has made it easier than ever before to access a modified Task Manager that you can access with a keyboard shortcut or by pinning it so you can see it even while you play your games.
How to Disable or Force Google Chrome Incognito ModeGoogle Chrome has a privacy feature called Incognito Mode that disables browsing history, site data, cookies, and any information you type in forms when active. This tutorial will show you how to disable incognito mode.
What is a HEIC File?You might have found an image on your computer with the HEIF extension and wondered what it was or how you could open it.
No Aldi Isn't Giving Away Free GroceriesAnother Facebook scam is making the rounds, which promises free groceries for commenting, sharing, and taking a survey.
How to Limit or Modify the Bandwidth Used by OneDriveOneDrive allows you to back up and share your files and folders easily in the cloud. However, backing up can be time-consuming and take bandwidth away from other applications. To avoid this, we can limit the amount of bandwidth OneDrive can use.
How to Limit or Modify the Bandwidth Used by DropboxDropbox allows you to back up and share your files and folders easily in the cloud. However, backing up can be time-consuming and take bandwidth away from other applications. To avoid this, we can limit the amount of bandwidth Dropbox can use.
How to Manage Driver Problems in Device ManagerThere are numerous ways to install, uninstall, and update your drivers, but you should know how to use Device Manager if you need to troubleshoot problems.
What is Ghosting?Ghosting is a term that hasn't been around all that long compared to other colloquialisms (casual communications). Here's more than you ever wanted to know about Ghosting.
How to Fix Windows Upgrade Error 0XC1900405Windows Upgrade error 0XC1900405 is often related to a problem with your installation media (ISO, DVD, thumb drive). Here are a few steps to resolve the problem.
How to Fix Windows Upgrade Error 0XC1900404Windows Upgrade error 0XC1900404 is often related to a problem with your installation media (ISO, DVD, thumb drive). Here are a few steps to resolve the problem.
How to Enable Camera On or Off NotificationsThere are numerous ways to tell if your camera is on or off in Windows 10, and here is another option you might like.
What is Leetspeak?You've probably heard the word leetspeak, but what is it, how do you use it, and where did it come from?
How to Disable Malwarebytes on StartupIf you use Malwarebytes for scanning and prefer not to have it start with Windows, it's easy to do. Here's how.
What Happened to the Malwarebytes Offline Database?Malwarebytes is the most popular and effective antivirus and antimalware application on the internet. You used to download an offline database to update Malwarebytes manually if needed, but that's no longer the case.
Windows 10 & 11 Changes Your Default Web BrowserWindows 10 has been known to change your default web browser. There are numerous reasons for your web browser default to change, but only a few ways to make sure your browser of choice is the default browser.
3 Ways to Enable or Disable the Print Spooler Service in WindowsThe Print Spooler in Windows holds printing jobs in memory until you or the printer is ready. You may find situations where you need to start and stop the print spooler.
How to Reset Graphics (GPU) Preferences to DefaultWindows 10 allows you to set graphics (GPU) preferences per application. You can let Windows decide or choose from high-performance or power-saving. You can also reset apps to the default graphics preferences. Here's how.
How to Fix an Upside Down Oculus RiftIf your Oculus play space or home screen is upside-down, it's an easy fix.
What Does Lulz Mean?There's a good chance you've seen Lulz used on the internet, typically on social media, message boards, or forums.
What is Caturday?Social media and websites are full of fun ideas for certain days of the week, and Caturday is one of our favorites.
What Does TBT Mean?The internet is full of acronyms, and TBT is one that you might have seen on social media.
How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x800f024bWindows Update error 0x800f024b on Windows 10 can occur when trying to download a driver. Try these steps to resolve the error.
How to Check What Version of DirectX Is InstalledDirectX is required for most games allowing your software and hardware to communicate properly for the best experience. Here's how to check what version of DirectX is installed on your computer.
What Does TBH Mean?The internet is full of acronyms, and TBH is one that you might have heard. Over the years, the meaning has changed.
What Is a Karen?Everyone has heard about Karen, but there is some confusion about what or who a Karen is.
What Does SMH Mean?SMH is an internet acronym that most people have seen (even if you didn't know it) yet might not know what it means.
What Does IIRC Mean?IIRC is an internet acronym that has quite a few variations, all meaning the same thing IIRC.
What Does IDK Mean?The internet is full of acronyms, and IDK is one that you may not be familiar with, even though it picked up in popularity in 2020.
What is a JFIF File?You may encounter an image file with the extension JFIF. These images often are downloaded rarely on the internet or maybe from a collection of old camera photos. Here's what you need to know about JFIF.
What Does ROTFLMAO, ROFL, or ROTF Mean? The internet is full of acronyms, and ROFL is an interesting one with a few different variations, including ROTF and ROTFLMAO.
What Does IRL Mean?The internet is full of acronyms, and IRL is an interesting one with a long and ever-evolving history.
What Does YMMV Mean?The internet is full of acronyms, and YMMV is a classic one you might come across in conversations with friends, family, or colleagues.
What Does HMU Mean?The internet is full of acronyms, and HMU is a classic one you might come across in conversations with friends, family, or colleagues.
What Does AFAIK Mean?The internet is full of acronyms, and AFAIK is a classic that is used more today than ever.
What Does IMY Mean?The internet is full of acronyms, and IMY is a friendly, frequently used acronym you might like using yourself.
What Does AFK Mean?The internet is full of acronyms, and AFK is a classic that isn't used as much anymore.
What Does ICYDK Mean?The internet is full of acronyms, and ICYDK is one of many you might not recognize or understand, and that's OK. Acronyms are abbreviations of words used to cut down on the time it takes to type. Acronyms are often typed and easier to understand when typed in capital letters. There's no shame in seeing an acronym you don't recognize, and it's happened to everybody (or it eventually will). Some longer acronyms, including ICYDK, aren't something you can pronounce as easily as LOL, so don't expect to hear someone usin...
What Does ICYMI Mean?The internet is full of acronyms, and ICYMI is one of many you might not recognize or understand, and that's OK.
Something Unexpected Happened, Code: 0x80070141If you receive an error that reads, "Something unexpected happened, Code: 0x80070141," we have some solutions for you. You might also see "Acquiring Licenses to Downloading."
Windows 10 & 11 Upgrade Error 0x8007042B - 0x2000DWindows 10 error 0x8007042B - 0x2000D can appear when trying to upgrade Windows 10. Try these steps to resolve the error and finish your upgrade.
Windows Update or Upgrade Error 0x800705AA0x800705AA -2147023446, ERROR_NO_SYSTEM_RESOURCE, Insufficient system resources exist to complete the requested service is yet another Windows Update or upgrade error you might encounter.
How to Get a Dark Start Menu and Taskbar in Windows 10 & 11 Following some large Feature Updates, Windows 10 has been known to remove the dark Start Menu and Taskbar and restore it to the default light theme. Here's how to change your Start Menu and Taskbar to dark mode.
What is an (Unconfirmed) Crdownload File?You might have noticed one or more files in one of your folders with a file extension of .crdownload and wondered what it was?
What is Microsoft .Net Framework or Runtimes?Odds are you've heard about Microsoft .Net. You probably know you have it. And, if you use your computer a lot, you've probably had problems with it. This tutorial explains what .Net is, why you need it, and how to get it or address any problems.
How to Delete a File or Folder in Windows 10 & 11Many of us have had to delete a folder in Windows 10, but if you're having difficulty, then here are all the known ways to delete a folder.
How to Download Drivers in Windows UpdateThere are many ways to download drivers, including Windows Updates in Windows 10. Here's how to update your drivers in Windows 10.
Windows 10 & 11 Upgrade Error 0xC1900101 - 0x4000DWindows 10 error 0xC1900101 – 0x4000D can appear during a major upgrade or when installing Windows 10. Fixing this problem is different than most upgrade or update errors.
How to Turn Off Windows Spotlight NotificationsWindows 10 offer Spotlight Notifications that can become cluttered and requires you to remove them one at a time. While you can't clear all of the notification, you can entirely block them.
How to Find and Save Your Windows 10 & 11 Login Screen PicturesThe login screen in Windows 10 often shows you an image or background picture. You can easily find and download these images.
How to Use Less Memory, GPU, and CPU With SteamSteam is a popular gaming client with a lot of features. All those features use a lot of memory, CPU, and GPU. Here's an option to reduce the memory used by Steam.
How to Restart, Shut Down, Sleep, Switch User, Log Off or Sign out on Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 features numerous ways to restart or reboot your computer. There are times that the typical methods don't work, so here are all of your options. In some cases, other options include Sign out, Switch user, and Sleep.
How to Disable the Snipping Tool in Windows 10 & 11If you'd like to disable the Snipping tool in Windows 10, you can with Group Policy Editor or the Registry.
3 Ways to Synchronize Windows Clock With an Internet Time ServerThe clock on your computer isn't just there to show you the time. It also can record the correct time when you create or modify files on your computer. While the Windows clock automatically updates weekly, there may be times you need to sync with the internet time server manually.
How to Create a Google Chrome Bookmark Desktop ShortcutGoogle Chrome offers bookmarks that can be exported, imported, and even saved to your Google Account. Another bookmark option is to create a Desktop shortcut. It's easy to do in Google Chrome and most Chromium-based browsers.
How to Check if Windows 10 & 11 is ActivatedWindows 10 uses activation to verify you have a genuine copy of Windows 10 that's not being used on other devices. Here's how you can check your activation status.
How to Remove Windows Insider Program Page in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 allows you to preview the upcoming builds of Windows 10 by joining the Windows Insider program. By previewing upcoming builds, you are essentially running the beta or alpha versions of the next version of Windows 10. If more than one person uses your computer, you might want to hide the Insider Program.
How to Create a System Protection (System Restore) Shortcut in Windows 10 & 11System Protection gives you access to all of the System Restore features, including restoring your PC, creation a restore point, and configuration. If you use System Restore regularly, you can add a Desktop Shortcut.
How to Clear Your Activity History in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 features Activity History, which allows you to jump back into what you were doing by storing info about websites you visit and how you use apps and services. You can disable or clear your activity history. Here's how.
How to Disable Feature Update Blocking in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 Feature Updates are often postponed for many due to known issues. If you'd like to download the latest feature update right away, you can bypass what Microsoft calls Feature Update Block Safeguard.
Windows Can’t Verify the Publisher of This Driver Software"Windows Can’t Verify the Publisher of This Driver Software" is an error message that might appear when installing third-party drivers.
How to Change Optimize Drives Scheduled SettingsOptimize Drives is a Windows feature that can defragment or optimize the TRIM on your hard drives. By default, your drive is optimized weekly. If you like, you can change or even remove the schedule optimizations.
How to Fix Windows Updates Error Code 0x80070570If you encounter an error message during Windows Updates that reads, "Some update files are missing or have problems, Error 0x80070570," then here are some steps to fix the problem.
How to Change Number of Taskbar Button Flashes in Windows 10 & 11Whenever a background app is activated, the icon will flash on the Taskbar. You can modify how many times a background app flashes.
Google Chrome - File Is Not Commonly Downloaded and May Be DangerousGoogle Chrome might block and warn you that a file is not commonly downloaded and may be dangerous. Here's all you need to know.
Microsoft Begins Removing the Classic Control Panel (Sort Of)Microsoft has begun phasing out the Control Panel with the Windows 10 October 2020 Update. While you can still access the Control Panel, eventually, it will be gone. Sort of.
How to Disable the Taskbar Context Menu in Windows 10 & 11When you right-click on your Taskbar, a context menu appears with access to many Taskbar related settings. If you like, you can disable the Taskbar Context Menu.
How to Permanently Delete Files Instead of Using the Recycle BinThe Recycle Bin is probably one thing in Windows 10 that everyone likes and thinks little about. You can do a few things to improve the Recycle Bin, including permanently deleting files instead of using the Recycle Bin. Here's how.
How to Hide Family Options in Windows SecurityWindows Security features Family Options, including parental controls and family devices. If you don't need or use Family Options, we can hide it from Windows Security in Windows 10, build 1709, or later.
How to Find Security Identifier (SID) of Users in Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7A Security Identifier or SID is a string value used to identify users or groups and control their access. Here's how to find the SID of users on your Windows 10, 8, and 7 PC.
How to Add 'Windows Defender Firewall' Context MenuWindows Defender Firewall is built into Windows 10 and protects your computer against outside access. There may be times when you need to change your firewall settings or allow a blocked app. In this tutorial, we're going to add Windows Defender Firewall to the Desktop context menu.
How to Set Preferred GPU for Apps in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 now lets you decide which GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) is used for your Desktop or Microsoft Store apps. Here's how.
How to Add Windows Update Desktop Context Menu in Windows 10 & 11Windows Updates is an important part of Windows 10. We often find ourselves checking for updates, looking at our update history, and more. In this tutorial, we're going to add Windows Updates to the right-click Desktop Context Menu for quick access.
Realtek HD Audio Using High CPU or Memory in Windows 10 & 11If your Realtek HD Audio uses a lot of CPU or memory, here's all you need to know to resolve the problem.
How to fix Error 0x8007000d in Windows 10 & 11When installing, updating, upgrading, or activating Windows 10, you might see error 0x8007000d. Here are some steps you can try to resolve this error and install the latest updates.
How to Fix Windows 10 & 11 Update or Activation Error 0x800f0805When trying to update or activate Windows 10, you might see error 0x800f0805. Here are some steps you can try to resolve this error and install the latest updates.
How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x8007012fWhen trying to update Windows 10, you might see error 0x8007012f. Here are some steps you can try to resolve this error and install the latest updates.
How to Turn on or off Enhance Mouse Pointer PrecisionEnhance pointer precision is a setting you can modify that determines how fast the pointer moves in reaction to your movement. You can enable or disable this setting to see which you prefer.
How to View Storage Usage on Multiple Drives in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 features the ability to see how much hard drive space you have and how much is being used in one place.
How to Create a Screen Saver Settings ShortcutScreen savers - you either love them or hate them. But, if you use screen savers, it takes a few clicks to get to the settings or create or download a shortcut.
This App Has Been Blocked for Your ProtectionIf you are getting an error that reads, "blocked for your protection" or "this app has been blocked" when running Computer Management or any app on your Windows 10, 8, and 7 computers, here's how to get rid of that error.
How to Enable or Disable Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) Auto Restart in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 will automatically reboot during a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), not allowing you time to write down the error code. In this tutorial, we will show you how to disable the automatic reboot when a Blue Screen appears.
How to Check Drive Health and SMART in Windows 10 & 11Beginning with Windows 10 Build 20226, Microsoft has introduced and new Storage feature called Manage Disks and Volumes. One of the new features includes the ability to check your hard drive health and SMART status.
How to Check Hard Drive Temperature in Windows 10 & 11Beginning with Windows 10 Build 20226, Microsoft has introduced and new Storage feature called Manage Disks and Volumes. One of the new features includes the ability to check your hard drive temperature.
What is Open Source Software?There are many third-party software choices - freeware, shareware, ad-supported, and Open Source, for example. Open Source software can get complicated if used commercially, but here's what you need to know.
How to Reset All Group Policy SettingsGroup Policy Editor is a great way to make Windows changes, including many features not available in Windows 10 settings. However, if you've made numerous changes and are experiencing problems, we can easily reset the Group Policy Editor.
How to Block the Windows 10 October 2020 (20H2) UpdateWindows 10 will be releasing Windows 10 October 2020 Update, version 20H2 soon. This is a Feature update that many people prefer to put off until it has been proven stable. Here's how you can block the Windows 10 October Update.
Some Update Files Are Missing or Have Problems, Error Code 0x80070570When trying to update Windows 10, you might see error 0x800f0984. Here are some steps you can try to resolve this error and install the latest updates.
How to Change the Minimum and Maximum PIN Length in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 offers the option to use Hello PIN, a 4 digit number that you can use to log into your computer. By default, your PIN is 4 characters, but you can specify any number you like.
How to Change Your Network Location To Public Or PrivateWhen you first signed onto your user account, you were given the option to set your network location to public or private. If you're not, or want to change our preference, it's easy to do.
How to Add Slow Motion Video Effects in Windows 10 & 11The built-in Windows 10 Photos app also features the ability to edit videos. One feature that might interest you is adding slow motion to your videos. Here's how.
Failed to Load steamui.dll ErrorIf you've encountered a "Failed to load steamui.dll" when starting the gaming client Steam, here are the possible fixes for this error.
How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x800f0984When trying to update Windows 10, you might see error 0x800f0984. Here are some steps you can try to resolve this error and install the latest updates.
How to Disable Window Shadows in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10, by default, shows a shadow around many applications. You might not notice it if using a dark theme, or hardly notice it even on white colors.
How to Disable Transparency Effects in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 offers transparency or semi-transparency effects for the Star Menu, Action Center, and Taskbar. If you don't like the transparency effects or are looking to speed up your PC, disabling transparency effects is possible.
How to Find Your Hard Drive On, Off, and Run TimeHave you ever wondered how long your hard drive has been running or how many times you've restarted? Me neither, but it's pretty cool information. Here's how.
How to Find Out if Your Operating System Is 32-Bit or 64-BitMany applications offer you the option of downloading and installing either 32-bit or 64-bit. It's important to know the differences and what's best for you.
How to Create an Advanced Startup Options Shortcut in Windows 10 & 11Advanced Startup Options in Windows allows you to troubleshoot or reset your computer when there are problems you can't fix within the Windows operating system. Advanced Startup can be hard to find, so we're going to create a shortcut, so it's there when you need it.
Convert Text to Speech With NotepadNotepad is a popular, yet no-frills text editor that has always been included with Windows. But, Notepad has a few "hidden" tricks. Yet another one of these tricks is the ability to convert text to speech.
How to Automatically Add Date and Time to Notepad DocumentsNotepad is a popular, yet no-frills text editor that has always been included with Windows. But, Notepad has a few "hidden" tricks. One of those tricks is the ability to add the date and time to your text documents automatically.
How to Show Matrix Effects in NotepadBored? Love the Matrix? Here's a quick and silly time-waster to show the Matrix effect in Notepad.
How to Open File Explorer to This PC Instead of Quick AccessFile Explorer opens Quick Access by default, but you have the option to have File Explorer open This PC instead. Here's how.
7 Ways to Restart or Shut Down Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 offers numerous ways to startup or shutdown your computer. If your preferred method isn't working, here are other ways to restart or shut down your PC.
How to Disable Hardware Acceleration in Windows 10 & 11 Photos AppThe Windows 10 Photos app also features video editing, which has been known to cause problems. If your Windows 10 Photos app is giving you problems and you don't edit videos, you might try disabling hardware acceleration.
How to Delete the Desktop Wallpaper History in Windows 10 & 11When you change your Windows 10 background or wallpaper, you can choose from five images. Windows 10 does not include a way to clear the history of the last five images. Here's a workaround to clear the history.
Show Detailed Information During Startup, Shutdown, Login, and LogoutWindows 10 shows a limited amount of details whenever you start, restart, shutdown, login, or logout. These are known as Verbose Status Messages. We can enable Windows to show you all of these messages with registry files, a simple registry edit, or Group Policy Editor.
How to Display the Day of the Week in Windows TaskbarWindows will show you the current date and time in the Taskbar, but not the day of the week. Here's how to show the day of the week in the Taskbar.
How to Prevent Cortana from Running in the BackgroundCortana is your personal productivity assistant and something many of us never use. You can easily disable Cortana from running in the background and free up resources.
How to Prevent Your Phone App from Running in the BackgroundWhen you link your phone to Windows 10, you can receive notifications and forward calls to your computer. That app automatically runs in the background, which you can disable in just a few simple steps.
How to Change Sound Audio Balance in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 allows you to change the left and right sound balance. Interestingly, when we checked our settings, our balance was uneven at 56, so you might want to check yours. Here's how.
How to Enable Rich Address Bar Autocompletion in Google ChromeGoogle Chrome has a new experiment called Rich Address Bar Suggestions that can show you additional information when you type a URL or search with the address bar.
How to Create a Recovery Drive in Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7While Windows 10 now features Reset This PC, you might want to create a recovery drive in Windows 7, 8, and 10. A recovery drive allows you to reset or troubleshoot Windows. It's easy to do - here's how.
How to Reset Settings App in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 introduced the Settings app, replacing the classic Control Panel. If you're having problems opening the Settings app, you can always try to reset it.
How to Check SMART Predict Failure in WindowsS.M.A.R.T (Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology) or SMART is a Windows technology designed to predict hard drive failure on hard disk drives (HDDs), solid-state drives (SSDs), and embedded Multi-Media Controller (eMMC) drives. Here's how to check your current SMART status.
Windows Defender Threat Returns RepeatedlyWhen Windows Defender discovers a threat, you can choose to Allow, Remove, or Quarantine any found threats. Sometimes, even after allowing a threat, Windows Defender continues to alert you, causing you to take action only to have the same threat return repeatedly.
How to Fix World of Warcraft Wow-64 Critical ErrorWorld of Warcraft players may experience occasional errors, including a wow-64 crash, letting you know that "this application has encountered a critical error."
How to Return or Refund a Steam GameIf you purchase a game on Steam and aren't happy, you might want to return it. Steam allows you to return a game if the return meets specific criteria. Here's all you need to know.
How to Disable Steam Popups & NotificationsSteam, by default, allows popup notifications about games, new and upcoming releases. One of the most annoying Steam popups appears every time you launch Steam, notifying you about new deals on games that rarely interest you. Let's turn that annoying Steam popup off.
How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x800704c7When trying to update Windows 10, you might see error 0x800704c7. Here are some steps you can try to resolve this error and install the latest updates.
Fix - The Properties for This Item Are Not AvailableWhen you right-click on a folder in Windows, you might see an error that reads, "The properties for this item are not available."
How to View DNS Cache Contents in Windows 10 & 11Windows stores a list of DNS cache entries that contain a list of the websites you visit with their remote server names and their corresponding IP addresses. You can view or export your DNS cache. Here's how.
Export or Import Google Chrome Bookmarks to HTMLIf you have a Google account, your Google Chrome bookmarks and settings are saved to your Google account. If you don't have an account, you might want to make a backup of your bookmarks to import later. Here's how.
Change Product Key Link Not Available in Windows 10 & 11If you try and change your Windows product key, we've seen cases where the option isn't available. Often, the link is missing because Windows was never activated. Otherwise, we can still change your product key manually.
How to Install Linux in Windows 10 & 11So you've heard about Linux, and that you can now use it in Windows 10, and you're ready to take the plunge? Here's how to prepare for and install Linux on Windows 10.
How to Find Your Windows 10 & 11 Original Install Date and TimeIf you were wondering when you installed Windows 10, here are a few ways to show the original install date and time.
How to Backup and Restore Printers in Windows 10 & 11Many people are unaware that they can back up their printers, including queues, ports, and printer drivers, to a printerExport file, which can then be used to import that printer to another computer running Windows 7, 8, or 10. Here's how.
We Could Not Complete the Install Because An Update Service Was Shutting DownIf you're getting an error message that reads, "We could not complete the install because an update service was shutting down" when upgrading or possibly updating windows 10, here are some steps to resolve the problem.
How to fix 'The Third-Party INF Does Not Contain Digital Signature Information'When installing drivers on your computer, you might see an error that reads, "The third-party INF does not contain digital signature information." Use these steps to resolve the problem.
How to View and Convert ITHMB FilesOn your Windows computer, you might have discovered files that end in the ITHMB extension, and you can't open them. In this tutorial, we discuss what an ITHMB file is and how you can open or convert these files.
What is MoUSOCoreWorker.Exe?MoUsoCoreWorker.exe is the executable for "Mo USO Core Worker." It also has related executables including USOCoreWorker.exe and USOClient.exe and some additional DLL files, including usoapi.dll, usocoreps.dll, and usosvc.dll.
How to Fix Windows Update or Firewall Error 0x8007042CError Code 0x8007042c can appear when running Windows Updates, upgrading to Windows 10, or if the Windows Firewall fails to start. Try these steps to fix the problem.
How to Always Start Microsoft Edge in InPrivate ModeIf you use InPrivate Mode all the time in Microsoft Edge, you can always start Edge in InPrivate Mode all of the time.
How to Create a PDF in WindowsPDF (Portable Document Format) format is a popular way to share documents regardless of your hardware, software, or operating system. Adobe co-founder Dr. John Warnock invented PDF, and today it is a household name. In this tutorial, we show you how to create a PDF in Windows without Adobe or any third-party applications installed.
How to Fix Windows Store Error 0x803FB005When downloading or updating your apps from the Windows Store, you might encounter error code 0x803FB005. Here are some steps to fix the problem.
How to Show Seconds in Windows 10 ClockThe Windows 10 clock resides in the taskbar and is something we've grown accustomed to and rarely give it a thought. In this tutorial, we show you how to add seconds to your Windows 10 clock.
How to Fix Windows Update Download Error 0x8024200BWhen trying to update or upgrade in Windows 10, you might see error code 0x8024200B. Here are some steps you can try.
How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80071160When trying to update Windows 10, you might see error 0x80071160. Here are some steps you can try to resolve this error and install the latest updates.
How to Clear Windows Update History in Windows 10 & 11Over time, as Windows 10 is updated, you can view the list of installed or failed updates. The list includes Feature, Quality, Driver, Definition, and Other Updates, and can contain dozens of installed or failed updates. There is no option to delete your Update history, but in this tutorial, we will show you how you can.
How to Fix Microsoft Store Error Code 0x000001F7You might encounter error code 0x000001F7 when opening or using the Microsoft Store. Here are some steps to fix the problem.
Windows 10 & 11 Update is Assistant Already RunningWhen running or starting the Windows Update Assistant, some users have reported a problem with the app restarting itself or force-installing Windows 10 while returning an error "Windows 10 Update Assistant is already running." Try these steps to fix the problem.
How to Fix Microsoft Store Error 0x8004e108When downloading or updating your apps from the Windows Store, you might encounter error code 0x8004e108. Here are some steps to fix the problem.
Facebook Needs to Improve Their Advertisement PoliciesLike many, I spend a fair amount of time on Facebook, and one of the largest annoyances (and there are many) is the advertising. While many of us use ad blockers, they don't work on Facebook. The only thing worse than advertising is really bad advertising, and Facebook deserves the crappy advertisement trophy.
What is DuckDuckGo?You have a lot of choices today in search engines, with Google dominating the market. Since you're here, you've heard about DuckDuckgo and might be wondering if it's any good, safe, or worth a look?
How to Fix Windows Unexpected Error 0xE0000100When installing or updating Windows 10, you might have encountered an "Unexpected Error 0xE0000100." Try these steps to continue installing Windows 10.
How to Fix IRQL NOT DISPATCH LEVEL 0x00000008 Blue ScreenThe IRQL NOT DISPATCH LEVEL error can appear when installing or updating Windows and is often due to a hard drive or driver problem.
How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80070246When trying to update Windows 10, you might see error 0x80070246. Here are some steps you can try to resolve this error and install the latest updates.
How to Fix Logitech Setpoint Runtime ErrorThe Logitech Setpoint runtime error is a common Logitech error, and here are some time-tested solutions to the problem.
What is the NVIDIA Ansel Folder and Can You Delete it?You might have noticed a folder on your computer named Ansel and wondered what it was for and if you can delete it?
How to Add or Remove Security Tab in File ExplorerWhen you look at the properties of any file in File Explorer, you can access the Security tab. Here you can choose who has permissions for a file, including modify, read, write, and full control. If you'd like, we can remove the Security tab taking away the ability for users to change the permissions of files.
How to Reset, Repair, or Uninstall Windows Store Apps in Windows 10 & 11If you run into a problem with any installed Windows Store apps, you have the option to reset, repair, or uninstall - one of the few advantages of the Windows Store.
Microsoft Solitaire Collection Error 101_107_1When opening or downloading game data in Windows 10 Solitaire, you might encounter error 101_107_1. Here are some steps you can take to get your Solitaire working again.
How to Fix Windows Update Error 0xc1900201When trying to update Windows 10, you might see error code 0xc1900201. Here are some steps you can try to resolve this error and install the latest updates.
How to Disable Xbox Achievement Notifications in Windows 10 & 11The Xbox Game Bar can be a great feature for gamers, but the notifications can be annoying. Here's how to disable some, or all, Xbox notifications.
Windows 10 & 11 Taskbar Won't HideWhen you're using an app, game, or watching a video, you might find that the Taskbar isn't hidden as it should be. Here are a few things to try.
Stop Windows From Prompting to Delete a FileWindows will protect you from accidentally deleting a file by prompting you before you delete a file to the Recycle Bin. Here's how you can easily disable the prompt before deleting a file.
Use Storage to Find and Free up Space in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 allows you to see, and manage, an overview of your hard drives and how space is being used.
Disney Plus Account Notice ScamDisney+ has proven popular enough for scammers to try and trick you into getting your account information and more. An email is making the rounds using the subject of "Account Notice."
How to Fix Upgrade Assistant Error 0xC1900200When trying to update or upgrade in Windows 10, you might see error code 0xC1900200 accompanied by the always favorite "Something went wrong" error. Here are some steps you can try.
How to Categorize Your Steam Games With CollectionsOver time, your Steam game collection can become massive, and that's a good thing! By default, Steam will categorize your games in a simple category called Uncategorized. Here's how you can create and manage personalized game categories.
How to Fix Microsoft Account Problem NotificationWindows 10 might show you an error that says "Microsoft account problem." Luckily this error is not a problem. Luckily this error is a simple fix.
Facebook Updating Terms of Service on October 1 2020Facebook has announced that they will be updating their Terms of Service again on October 1, 2020.
How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x800703e3When trying to update Windows 10, you might see error code 0x800703e3. Here are some steps you can try.
How to Fix Microsoft Store Sign-in Error 0x801901f4When logging into the Windows Store with your Microsoft account, you might encounter error code 0x801901f4. Here are some steps to fix the problem.
How to Fix Microsoft Store Error 0x80D02017When you log into the Windows Store to download, install, or update your apps, you might see error 0x80D02017. Try these steps to resolve the problem.
How to Fix Windows 10 & 11 Update or Upgrade Error 0x8007042B – 0x4000DWhen trying to update or upgrade in Windows 10, you might see error code 0x8007042B – 0x4000D. Here are some steps you can try.
How to List Installed Programs With PowerShellWe've compiled The Ultimate List of Every Known Command Prompt and PowerShell Commands already, but here's a neat way to view a list of installed programs or apps with PowerShell.
How to Fix Windows Update or Upgrade Error 800704B8 – 0x3001AWhen trying to update or upgrade in Windows 10, you might see error code 800704B8 – 0x3001A. Here are some steps you can try.
How to Fix Windows 10 & 11 Update Error 0x800703F1When trying to update Windows 10, you might see error code 0x800703F1, and "Updates failed." If you clicked retry without luck, here are some steps you can try.
Right-Click Not Working on Taskbar or Start MenuIf your right-click is not working, especially in the Start Menu or taskbar, here are some steps to get it back.
How to Disable Face Recognition in Windows 10 & 11 Photos AppThe Windows 10 Photos app features the ability to detect and recognize faces. This feature is called People and should be off by default. Here's how to enable or disable the People feature in the Windows 10 Photos app.
Could Not Initialize Graphics System"Could not initialize graphics system. Make sure that your video card and driver are compatible with DirectDraw" is an error that can appear in many games, most notably Ages of Empire.
How to Fix Microsoft Store Error 0x801901f4When you log into the Windows Store or anywhere on your Microsoft Account, you might see error 0x801901f4. Try these steps to resolve the problem.
How to Fix Microsoft Security Error 0x80073b01Microsoft Security (Windows Defender) might show you an error that reads, An error has occurred in the program during initialization. If this problem continues, please contact your system administrator. Error code: 0x80073b01.
How to Fix Windows Update Errors 0x800f0988, 0x800f081f, or 0x800f08aSome Windows users have had a problem downloading cumulative updates with error codes 0x800f0988, 0x800f081f or 0x800f08a. Here are the stpes you need to resolve the problem.
How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x800706d9When updating Windows, you might receive an error code 0x800706d9. You are probably seeing "There were some problems installing updates, but we'll try again later."
How to Show App Names in Taskbar IconsWindows 10 gives you the option to show the names of running applications in your taskbar, and it's easy to do at any skill level.
How to Fix GeForce Experience Error 0x0003 or 0x0001GeForce Experience Error 0x0003 and 0x0001 can appear at any time, and here are a few things you can try to get GeForce Experience working correctly again.
How to Fix Microsoft Account Sign in Error 0x800706d9When logging into the Windows Store with your Microsoft account, you might encounter error code 0x800706d9. Here are some steps to fix the problem.
How to Manually Download Windows Updates and Drivers From Microsoft UpdatesWindows Updates includes Feature, smaller, and critical updates, drivers, and more for all versions of Windows. By searching the Microsoft Update Catalog, you can manually download a problematic update, compare Windows drivers to the latest from your manufacturer, and more.
How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80070bc2When updating Windows, you might receive an error code 0x80070bc2.
How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80240008When updating Windows, you might receive an error code 0x80240008. You are probably seeing "There were some problems installing updates, but we'll try again later."
How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80240016Error code 0x80240016 can appear when updating Windows 10. You are probably seeing "There were some problems installing updates, but we'll try again later."
How to Defragment Your Hard DriveDisk defragmentation can cause a computer to run slowly, so it's an essential step to keeping your computer running smoothly. Here's how.
How to Fix Error Disk Too FragmentedERROR DISK TOO FRAGMENTED is an error that can appear in Windows with different error codes, including 0x0000012E. Here are some solutions to the problem.
How to Create Self-Extracting Archives on Windows 10 & 11Many of us have created a compressed archive over the year, but did you know you can create a self-extracting or self-installing package with IExpress built into Windows? Here's how.
How to fix Microsoft Store Error 0x80070520After updating Windows 10, you might encounter an error in the Windows Store that reads, Something unexpected happened, Error code 0x80070520. Here are some possible fixes.
Something Happened and Your Pin Isn't AvailableWindows 10 offers the option to sign in with a Pin. If you're getting an error that states, "Something happened and your PIN isn't available," then here are some solutions.
How to Avoid COVID-19 Contact Tracer Spam CallsScammers are making the rounds attempting to get information by pretending to be contact tracers. Here's how to avoid falling prey to this scam.
Google Chrome Failed - No FileWhen downloading a file with Google Chrome, or any Chromium-based browser, you might see a "Failed - No File" error.
How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80246002When installing Windows Update, you might encounter error code 0x800706ba. Here are the steps you can take to remedy the problem.
CatRoot and catroot2 Folders ExplainedCatroot and Catroot2 are two folders found in C:\Windows\System32. In this tutorial, we explain what these two folders are and how to delete them if needed.
How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x8007371cIf you receive an error 0x8007371c when updating Windows, then we have some solutions for you.
This PC's Processor Doesn't Support a Critical FeatureWhen upgrading to Windows 10, we've seen an error that reads “This PC’s processor doesn’t support a critical feature." Here are a couple of ideas to finish your upgrade from Windows 7 or 8 to Windows 10.
How to Disable Gmail Showing Social, Media Sharing, and Dating NotificationsGoogle Gmail, on most mobile devices, will, by default, notify you of social media posts and other activity not related to email. Here's how to turn this annoyance off.
Windows 10 & 11 Sandbox Internet Not WorkingSome users have reported a problem with Windows 10 Sandbox internet not working, making the Windows Sandbox feature useless. Here are some steps you can try.
How to Allow or Block Automatic File Downloads in Windows 10 & 11When you download online-only files (Dropbox, Windows Media Player) with Windows 10, you will get a notification if the file is an automatic download with details. In this tutorial, we show you how to allow or block apps from requesting automatic file downloads.
How to Add System Protection Context Menu in Windows 10 & 11System Protection is a part of Windows that allows access to System Restore. If you like you can add System Protection to the Desktop Context Menu.
How to Uninstall a Printer Driver in WindowsWhen you remove a printer in Windows, the driver remains installed. In this tutorial, we show you how to uninstall your printer drivers.
How to Check Which Microsoft .NET Version is InstalledWindows 10 has vastly improved on installing the latest .NET for you, but if you need to verify your Microsoft.Net version, here's how.
How to Rename a Printer in Windows 10 & 11Anytime you add a printer, a specific name is assigned to that printer. If you like, you can rename a printer to anything you want.
How to Remove a Printer in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 keeps a list of printers as hardware. If you need to remove a printer, here's how.
How to Run Microsoft Store and Other Apps at Startup in Windows 10Windows 10 offers the option to run programs when Windows starts. You can also add any Microsoft app (calculator, PowerShell, Snipping Tool) and even third-party apps (Steam, Oculus, NVIDIA Control Panel) or system tools (Task Manager, System Configurations, Services) to your startup. Here's how.
How to Fix Windows Update Error Code C8000266While updating Windows 10, you might have encountered an error that read C8000266: Windows Update encountered an unknown error. Luckily, this is an easy fix.
How to Enable New Windows 10 2004 Start Menu NowWindows 10 will feature an improved start menu with transparency, new icons, and more. While not a significant change, it's just subtle enough to be a nice, modern improvement.
What Is the Perflogs Folder in Windows?While browsing your hard drive with hidden files and folders enabled, you might have seen a folder called PerfLogs and wondered what it was and if you can delete it.
How to Enable Windows 10 Insider Program Without a Microsoft AccountThe Windows Insider program is free but designed for advanced users who are willing to test upcoming features of Windows. Typically, you need to log in with your Microsoft account. Until now.
How to Create a Shortcut to Steam Games on the Desktop or TaskbarSteam users have the option to pin a shortcut to their Steam games on the Desktop or Taskbar. Here's how.
How to Enable and Use Telnet in WindowsTelnet is a command-line interface for Windows designed to communicate with other devices. Telnet is something us old-school Windows users are familiar with from the early DOS and Windows days. Telnet has been replaced with better, modern apps including Zoom and TeamViewer. There may come a time you need or want to try Telnet. Here's all you need to know.
What is Device Census or devicecensus.exe in Windows 10?An executable has appeared in Windows 10 called Device Census, or devicecensus.exe. What is this file, and is it safe?
How to Remove Previous Owners Streaming Accounts on Smart TVsIf you've purchased a used Smart TV, the previous owner may not have logged out of installed streaming apps, including Amazon Prime, Netflix, Hulu, and Disney +. We admit to getting stuck on how to remove some accounts, but we figured it out.
How to Free up iCloud Space and Stop Apple Upgrade NaggingRecently, we looked at the lesser-known option to free up iPhone space by deleting 'Other' storage. We also made another discovery that can free up your iCloud space and stop Apple from nagging you to buy more storage.
How to Free up iPhone Space by Deleting 'Other' StorageThe modern iPhone can use up a lot of storage space for videos, photos, and music. Removing these files is easy enough, but if you need more space on your iPhone, you might be surprised at how much space is being wasted in a category called "Other."
How to Reset a Windows Store App in Windows 10 & 11If you're having a problem with Windows 10 apps, also known as Universal Windows Apps or UWP, resetting the app might solve your problem.
How to Benchmark Your ComputerRunning a computer benchmark on your computer allows you to see how well different hardware on your computer is working and can help you identify bottlenecks. Here are some options to benchmark your Windows PC.
The Best Auto Shopping Websites For 2022 - UpdatedCar buying is stressful, and the plethora of car buying websites makes it all the more difficult. A new car is one of the worst purchases you can make in your lifetime, and you want to get it right. So, which car-buying website should you use?
How to Fix Windows 10 Search MissingIf you're Windows 10 search bar or icon is missing or even changed, here are some simple steps you can try.
How to Fix Low or No iPhone Ring and Text VolumeWe've run into a problem with missing phone calls and texts because the iPhone ringer was off, or very low even though we didn't have the phone on mute, and the volume was up.
How to Change First Day of Week in WindowsWindows sets the first day of the week based on your region settings. You can change the first day of the week to any day you want.
How to Add 'Restart Explorer' Context Menu in Windows 10 & 11If you find that you need to restart Explorer regularly with Windows 10, you can add the option to the Context Menu.
How to Delete Diagnostic Data in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 collects data to improve the operating system and fix problems. You can turn diagnostic data on or off and delete it at any time.
How to Add Sound When You Press Print ScreenWindows 10 offers numerous options to add, remove, or change sound events. One missing option is the ability to add a sound when you use the Print Screen button to take a screenshot.
How to See Less Alcohol, Parenting, Pets, and Political Ads on FacebookFacebook ads can be pretty annoying. While you can't turn them off, you can see fewer advertisements regarding Alcohol, Parenting, Pets, and Social Issues, Elections, or Politics.
How to Change Screen Refresh Rate in Windows 10In this tutorial, we show you how to change the refresh rate for your display adapter(s).
How to Turn Autocorrect on or Off in Windows 10Windows 10 gives you the option to autocorrect or highlight misspelled words. We can turn it on or off in Settings, or with Registry Files.
Enable or Disable Desktop Icon Settings in Windows 10, 8, and 7Desktop Icon Settings allows you to show, hide, or change the icons for Computer, User's Files, Network, Recycle Bin, and Control Panel. Using our registry files, you can block access to the Desktop Icon Settings in Windows 7, 8, and 10.
How to Turn On or Off USB Issue Notifications in Windows 10Windows 10 will notify you if a problem is detected with a USB drive. You can turn these notifications on or off if you want.
How to Resize 'Save As' Window in Google Chrome and Other ApplicationsRecently, out of the blue, my Google Chrome 'Save As' dialog box decided to open full screen. While not the end of the world, I found it annoying and couldn't resize the window until I remembered the simple fix. Note that the same problem can happen to almost any application. Numerous keyboard and mouse combinations can ''break'' things on you, wondering how your favorite settings suddenly disappear. Anyway, the top thin line of any application is called the Title Bar. Double-click the Title Bar to exit the fu...
How to Turn AutoPlay On or Off in Windows 10 & 11Windows AutoPlay goes back as far as we can remember, and it's one of those settings many prefer to disable. In Windows 10, you can enable or disable Windows AutoPlay for removable drives, memory cards, smartphones, and more.
How to Change the Taskbar Threshold for ThumbnailsWhen you hover over an icon in the Taskbar and have multiple windows or tabs open, you can see thumbnails of all other windows. Windows uses a limit on how many previews are available, also known as Threshold. Here's how to change the threshold to suit your needs.
How to Check for Updates in Microsoft Store AppThe Microsoft Store is a necessary evil for some developers who don't offer their downloads in multiple locations. In this tutorial, we show you how to make sure your Windows Store apps are up to date.
How to Reset Taskbar Toolbars in Windows 7 and 10Windows 7 and 10 Taskbar offers many features, including the ability to add a toolbar to anything you want. Your Taskbar can become cluttered, and removing items can be time-consuming. Using our batch file, you can reset your Taskbar toolbar and start fresh in one click.
How to Collapse or Hide Apps List in Windows 10 Start MenuThe Windows 10 Start Menu can take up a lot of screen space and get cluttered. With a few registry edits, we can hide or collapse the Start Menu Apps list. If you use Tiles frequently, we think you'll love this idea.
How to Disable Access to Taskbar Settings in Windows 10Windows 10 offers numerous ways to customize your Taskbar. If you'd like to block access to most Taskbar settings, we can do so by editing the Registry or using our Registry files.
How to Add or Remove 'Sign Out' in WindowsWhen you use the Start menu, Alt+F4, or Win+X, you have multiple options, including Shut down, Sign out, Sleep, Shut down, and Restart. If you never use the Sign out option, we can remove it from the list of choices.
How to Fix 'This App Can't Run on Your PC'This App Can't Run on Your PC is a frustrating error that leaves many people at a loss as to why they can't run an application. Here are some steps you can take to fix the problem.
How to Enable or Disable Pin and Unpin Apps on TaskbarWhen you right-click on most app shortcuts or executables in Windows 10, 8, and 7, you have the option to pin or unpin to the Taskbar. Many businesses, universities, companies, and institutions might appreciate the ability to disable pinning to the Taskbar. Here's how.
How to Add or Hide Mixed Reality to Windows 10 SettingsWindows 10 has added or removed Mixed Reality from Settings based on your hardware and software. Using our registry files, you can decide if Windows Reality is available in your Windows 10 settings page.
How to Hide or Show Device Security in Windows 10Device Security in Windows 10 allows you to view and manage hardware security features. You can hide Device Security if you'd like to prevent anyone from accessing Device Security.
How to Rename a Network Adapter in WindowsWindows assigns simple names to each network connection. For example, you might have connections named Wi-Fi or Ethernet. If you prefer something more personal, you can change the name of your network connections in Windows 7, 8, and 10.
How to Create a WLAN Report in WindowsIf you're having trouble with your network or internet connection, you can easily create a WLAN report in HTML format, which provides you with information on all of your connections, including errors or warnings, drivers, devices, and more.
How to Uninstall Microsoft Edge Browser if Uninstall is Grayed OutBeginning in late June, Microsoft began pushing the Chromium-based Microsoft Edge to Windows 10. The update is delivered with KB4559309, and once installed, the Chromium-based Edge replaces the old Edge, and the Uninstall button is light gray and can't be clicked.
How to Disable Indexing of Network Locations in Photos in Windows 10Windows 10 now ships with Photos, which replaces Windows Photo Viewer and Photo Gallery. Now Photos can index network locations for faster image rendering, which you can disable. Here's how.
Show or Hide NVIDIA Display GPU Activity Icon in System TrayNVIDIA drivers offer the option of accessing NVIDIA GPU Activity in the notification area, also known as the System Tray. You can easily add or remove this.
Show or Hide NVIDIA Control Panel in the Context Menu and System TrayNVIDIA drivers offer the option of accessing the NVIDIA Control Panel with the Context Menu (right-click) or from the System Tray. You can easily add or remove either shortcut.
How to Disable Changing Date and Time FormatsWindows offers the option to change your date and time formats. By using the Group Policy Editor or the Registry Editor, we can disable it so no one can change the date and time format.
How to Change Wireless Network Connection Priority in WindowsWindows will show all available Wi-Fi networks starting first with any connection you connect to automatically, then in order of the strongest to weakest signal. You can change the order of available networks. Here's how.
How to Hide or Show the Compatibility Tab in File Explorer PropertiesWhen you right-click on a file and select Properties in Windows, you have numerous options, including Security, Details, Previous Versions, General, Compatibility, and Digital Signatures. In this tutorial, we are going to hide or show the Compatibility tab.
How to Reset and Clear Print Spooler in WindowsResetting the print spooler can help when you have a job stuck in the print queue. Here's how to reset and clear the print spooler.
How to Enable or Disable Mobile Hotspot in Windows 10Windows 10 users can use the mobile hotspot to share a Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or cellular data connection. In this tutorial, we show you how to enable or disable the mobile hotspot.
How to Enable or Disable Snap Pointer To Default Button in WindowsThe Snap To option in Windows can automatically move the pointer to the default button in a dialog box when opened. People tend to love or hate the feature, and you might not even know (or forgotten) the option exists.
How to Set Windows 10 Version to Stay On or Upgrade ToBeginning with Windows 10 Build 2004, there is a new Group Policy Editor option allowing you to choose which build of Windows to stay on, or upgrade to.
How to Fix ERR_SSL_PROTOCOL_ERRORERR_SSL_PROTOCOL_ERROR is an error one can encounter on any website. The reason or meaning behind it isn't clear, but there are a few things you can try.
How to Add A Service in Windows 10, 8, and 7We already discussed how to add a service in Windows 10, 8, and 7, so now we will discuss how to add a Service which is handy if you want to add or restore a Service.
What Is an APU Processor?AMD has long competed with Intel to be the best chipset for Windows computers. While comparing processers, which can be confusing enough, you might have seen, and wondered, what an APU processor is.
How to Change or Disable Hard Disk After Idle in WindowsHaving your hard drive's power down can save energy and usually extend the life of your drives and computer. In this tutorial, we look at how to modify the power downtime or disable it altogether.
What is Adobe Acrobat Update Service or Adobe_Updater.exeYou might have noticed a Windows Service named Adobe Acrobat Update Service or an executable called Adobe_updater.exe and wondered if you should remove or disable it.
This Video Is Unavailable With Restricted Mode EnabledYouTube may occasionally block you from seeing a video if the restricted Mode is enabled. Here's a brief explanation of what Restricted Mode is and how you can enable or disable as needed, so you can understand why this happened.
How to Remove or Restore Notepad in Windows 10Windows 10 includes Notepad, a basic text editor that many have grown to love. Microsoft has now made Notepad an optional feature in version 2004, so you have the option to install or uninstall Notepad in Windows 10.
How to Change the Size of Hiberfil.Sys in Windows 10Hibernate is when Windows 10 saves an image of the Windows kernel and drivers into memory (C:\hiberfil.sys) when your computer sleeps and then loads that hiberfile to resume rather than restart your computer. In this tutorial, we show you how to change the size of hiberfil.Sys for advanced users.
How to Change Windows Error Problem Reporting Settings in Windows 10, 8, and 7Windows Error Reporting can track when problems occur, then report back to Microsoft to provide solutions or to help Microsoft solve everyday problems. In this tutorial, we show you how to customize Windows Error Reporting to suit your needs.
How to Reset Facebook to Default SettingsThere are many articles out there over ten years old, where people ask how to reset Facebook to the default settings. In typical Facebook fashion, there is no magical "Reset defaults" option, and Facebook has so far ignored our requests to add this option. Here's what you can do.
How to Add or Remove 'Move to OneDrive' Context Menu in Windows 10 & 11OneDrive is the free 5GB cloud storage that is included free in Windows 10. When OneDrive is running, you will see a Context Menu item to "Move to OneDrive" when you right-click on any file. Here's how to remove the Move to OneDrive Context Menu.
How to Disable a Camera or Webcam in WindowsMany of us have cameras or webcams and have heard stories about people spying on you or broadcasting when you were unaware. My life is relatively boring, but I still appreciate the privacy. Luckily, disabling the webcam or camera is simple.
How to View Wireless Network Signal Strength in WindowsWhen diagnosing wireless problems, it's important to know your signal strength. In this tutorial, we look at different ways to see your Wi-Fi signal strength.
How to Customize Notifications and Feed Preferences for Facebook Fan PagesFacebook continues to decide what you should see first, and they suck at it. We don't know why we just can't see everything, but here we are. In this tutorial, we will show you how to find the options to make sure you the latest posts from the fan pages you follow show up when you like.
How to Show or Hide Full Details When Deleting a FileWhen you right-click on any file, you can get a lot of details. Using a registry hack, we can make it so Windows will show you the properties of any file before you delete a file to the Recycle Bin.
Ring Doorbell Doesn't See Wi-FiRecently, we suddenly ran into a frustrating problem with our Ring Doorbell not seeing our Wi-Fi connection. The Ring could see other networks in the neighborhood. Here's how we fixed the problem.
Windows 10 Search - This Is Taking Too Long to LoadBeginning in May 2020, a bug appeared that caused Windows Search to display, "This is taking too long to load." Here are the steps you can take to resolve the problem and get your Windows 10 search working again.
How to Remove Properties From the Recycle Bin Context MenuWhen you right-click on the Recycle Bin in Windows 10, you can change the Recycle Bin size and even disable the confirmation dialog. You can remove the Properties option so no one can modify these settings.
How to Disable OneDrive Automatically Starting in Windows 10 & 11OneDrive is cloud-based storage included in Windows 10 and set to start with Windows and sync your files and folders automatically. In this tutorial, we explain how you can disable OneDrive from starting automatically in Windows 10.
Automatic and Manual Trigger Start ExplainedWhile looking at or editing your Windows Services, you probably noticed Manual (Trigger Start) and (Automatic (Trigger Start). In this tutorial, we explain what Trigger Start means.
How to Make Your Scroll Lock Key UsefulThe Scroll Lock key dates back to 1981. Initially, one would use the scroll lock to use the arrow keys instead of the cursor to move text inside a window. Today, the Scroll Lock key is rarely used, or needed and some keyboards don't have a Scroll Lock key. Here are some other uses for the Scroll Lock key.
How to Check Wi-Fi Security Settings in WindowsIn this tutorial, we show you how to find out what security type your wireless card uses, which is based on your router settings.
Microsoft Launches Edge Add-on StoreMicrosoft Edge is the revamped Edge browser that uses Chromium, and instead of being the embarrassment of browsers, and the butt of jokes; it's excellent. During the beta phases, you were able to download and install from the Chrome Web Store, but now Microsft has added the Edge Add-ons website in beta at the time of this article.
How to Restart Graphics Driver for NVIDIA, AMD, and IntelWhile most people tend to restart their computer when they need to restart their graphics driver, here's a simple tip to save you the trouble of rebooting on Windows 10 and 8.
How to Add or Remove XPS Viewer App in Windows 10The XPS Viewer in Windows 10 allows you to view and edit XPS documents. If you don't use the XPS viewer, you can remove it and even add it back later.
How to Enable or Disable Shared Experiences in Windows 10 & 11Shared Experience allows you to share experiences, send messages, weblinks, and even open apps across multiple devices. While you can modify the settings, there's no one-click way to disable Shared Experiences, until now.
How to Get More Fonts in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 features better font management and offers a couple of ways to download fonts from Microsoft safely.
How to Hide Last Signed in Users in Windows 10When you sign out of Windows 10 and have multiple user accounts, you can click on any user name to log into that account. If an account is not password protected, anyone can log in. For security purposes, you can hide all the user accounts from being displayed, forcing a user to enter their account name and password.
No, You Can't Bypass YouTube Ads by Adding a PeriodMany websites, including YouTube, rely on advertising to stay in business and have found ways, or cut deals, with ad-blocking companies to allow their ads to be seen. Here's one little trick you may have heard of to bypass advertising on youTube.
9 Ways to Sign out of Windows 10Windows 10 allows you to sign out (and even another person to log in) without restarting the computer. Here are nine ways to sign out of Windows 10.
How to Add or Remove 'Select Power Plan' Context Menu in Windows 10 & 11Power Plans allow you to save energy, maximize performance, or balance the two. It would be nice to be able to change power plans on the fly, for example, when gaming, and with our registry files, you can change power plans directly from the Context Menu.
How to Add or Remove Intel HD Graphics Desktop Context MenuWhen you install the Intel video card drivers, a Context Menu item is added that you might not need that reads Intel® Graphics Settings. In this tutorial, we show you how to add or remove the Intel HD Graphics Desktop Context Menu in Windows.
How to Enable or Disable Windows 10 Full Screen Start MenuWindows 10 is by far Microsofts most customizable Operating System. The Start Menu is a big deal for many people, especially when they upgrade from Windows 7. In this tutorial, we show you how to enable, or disable the full-screen Start menu, and customize it to fit your needs.
How to Fix Windows Defender Remediation IncompleteWindows Defender may try to remove a virus, trojan, or other malware and return a message stating Remediation incomplete. Remediation incomplete leads one to assume that a virus, trojan or malware was found, but not removed.
How to Add or Remove 'Open with' Context Menu to URL ShortcutsA URL shortcut is a shortcut to open a website with your browser. In this tutorial, we will create a new Context Menu to choose what browser you use to open any URL shortcut.
How to Turn the Desktop Background Image On or Off in Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7Windows 10 has numerous options to personalize your computer, including background images, or wallpaper. You can use a photo, slideshow, or a solid color. Here's how to use only a solid color.
How to Start Google Chrome in Incognito Mode in Windows 7 and 10Google Chrome has a privacy feature called Incognito Mode that disables browsing history, site data, cookies, and any information you type in forms when active. In this tutorial, we show you how to open Incognito Mode automatically with a shortcut.
Spoiler Alert: How Many Letters Are in "the Alphabet"There's a quiz floating around on social media, especially Facebook, asking you a simple question - How many letters are in "the alphabet." Click to see the answer.
How to Enable or Disable USB Write ProtectionUSB Write Protection or USB Write access allows you to protect the data on your thumb or flash drives. You can manually enable write-protection or use the registry. We call these two methods, hardware or software.
Facebook: No, 52 Horses Do Not Need a New HomeAn almost decade-old Facebook post has been making the rounds again, this time adding a Coronavirus twist and different phone numbers.
How to Enable or Disable Windows Insider Program in Windows 10The Windows Insider Program lets you try out upcoming builds of Windows 10 as a beta tester. Here's all you need to know about the Insider Program, including how to participate or opt-out later.
How to Add New > Windows Batch File to the Windows 10 Context MenuWhen you right-click on your Desktop, you can click on New to add a folder, shortcut, create a text document, and more. In this tutorial, we will add New > Batch File to the Context Menu.
How to Enable or Disable Smooth Scrolling in Google ChromeGoogle Chrome has a feature that enables you to animate web pages smoothly when scrolling page content. If your Google Chrome seems to be jerky or stuttering when scrolling, you can enable this feature.
The Differences Between 32-bit and 64-bit ApplicationsYou might have come across a file on a website like MajorGeeks, where you have the option of 32-bit or 64-bit. What are the differences, and how can you tell which version you need?
Why You Shouldn't Take Facebook Surveys or QuizzesYou've seen the posts. Facebook surveys and quizzes (also called games) that claim to tell you about yourself or ask you to take a quiz to test your intelligence. They're not games but instead intended to be viral posts to show advertisements and gather data. While they appear to be fun and harmless, we don't waste our time "playing." Here's why.
Does a New Facebook Algorithm Only Show You 25 or 26 Friends?Some Facebook users continue to share memes or posts warning you that Facebook has a new algorithm that limits your news feed to 25 or 26 people. Here's what we know about the "new" Facebook algorithm.
How to Limit Data Usage on Windows 10Windows 10 allows you to monitor and control data usage for anyone with limited data plans or even to monitor how much data other users are using. Here's how you can limit data use in Windows 10.
How to Block Chromium Microsoft Edge From Installing on Windows 10Windows 10, by default, comes with the Chromium-based Microsoft Edge. If you'd like to block the installation, you can by editing the registry.
How to Show, Hide, Add, or Remove a Folder From Libraries in Windows 10Windows 10 includes a Libraries shortcut with folders for Music, Pictures, Documents, Videos. In this tutorial, we show you how to show or hide Libraries and how to add or remove them.
Why You Shouldn't Share Giveaways on FacebookYou've seen the posts on Facebook. Win this car! Win this house! Win this SUV! Win free airline tickets! Like and share to enter! Let's talk about what the deal is with these "giveaways," why you shouldn't share them, and the one simple tip to spot a fake contest or promotion.
How to Delete a Service in Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7There may come a time you want, or need, to delete a Windows Service. Perhaps it's a service you don't need or a Service that didn't uninstall after you removed an application or malware. It's possible to remove many Services using PowerShell or the Command Prompt.
How to Disable Microsoft Edge Ads in Windows 10 Start MenuBeginning with Windows 10 Build 1909, Microsoft has been pushing advertisements in Windows Search to download Microsoft Edge. There are two different ads; one for a general search, and another for when you search for a browser. Here's how to disable those ads.
How to Disable the Insert Key in Windows 10If you find the Insert key to be an annoyance on Windows 10, you can easily disable it.
How to Delete Chrome Address Bar Suggestions with MouseGoogle Chrome has added the option to delete address bar suggestions in Google Chrome with your mouse.
Roboform - Reload Page to Use This ExtensionRecently, we ran into a problem with Roboform not working correctly in our browser extension unless we refreshed the page, or copy and pasted our passwords. If you're getting the "Reload page to use this extension" error, we have a fix.
Windows 10 Feature Update - Your Device Isn’t Quite Ready for ItWhen checking Windows Updates, you might see - "Feature Update to Windows 10. The Windows 10 Update is on its way. We're offering this update to compatible devices, but your device isn't quite ready for it. Once your device is ready, you'll see the update available on this page. There's nothing you need to do at this time."
How to View Recommended Troubleshooting History in Windows 10Windows 10 can show you any recommended troubleshooting you may have used in the past. Viewing the troubleshooting history can be useful for troubleshooting to save time, especially for techs.
How to Change Font Size, Color, and Style in Notepad in Windows 10Notepad is a basic Text Editor included with Windows. One handy feature available in Windows 10 is the ability to zoom in or out of the text. Here's how.
How to Change Zoom in or out of Text in Notepad in Windows 10Notepad is a basic Text Editor included with Windows. One handy feature is the ability to zoom in or out of the text. Here's how.
How to Play Lets Surf in Microsoft EdgeStarting with build 83, Microsoft has made Let's Surf available for everyone to play as a hidden game or Easter Egg.
VMware Cannot Connect the Virtual Device sata0:1 ErrorIf you're getting an error every time you boot with VMware, here's the solution. The error we're looking at reads, "Vmware Cannot Connect the Virtual Device sata0:1."
How to Buy a New Computer or Laptop in 2021The Coronavirus pandemic has many people firing up their desktops and laptops only to discover that they aren't good enough anymore. We're going to discuss what type of computer options exist, and more importantly, how to choose the best hardware, including video card, memory, motherboard, hard drive, and more to suit your needs and budget.
How to Print a Printer Test Page in WindowsAt some point, many of us need to print a test page from our printer to diagnose printer issues. You can print a test page in Windows, online, or with a third-party app.
How to Clear Recent Documents History in WordPadMicrosoft WordPad stores a list of recently used documents you can access when you click on the File tab. You can remove some or all of your document history in the registry. Here's how.
How to Change Folder View Template for All Folders in Windows 10Windows 10 offers the option to view files and folders as Details, List, or Small, Medium, Large, or Extra large icons. Here's how you can change each folder view option to suit your needs.
How to Add Default Apps as a Desktop Shortcut or Context MenuWhenever you double-click on a file in File Explorer, Windows 10 will automatically open the default app for that file type. For example, when you click on an MP3, Windows will open Windows Media Player by default. You can change the default apps by going to Start > Settings > Apps > Default Apps, or we can add Default Apps to the Context Menu.
How to Use the Windows 10 Network Packet SnifferOne of the things we love about Windows is discovering and using hidden tools that are just waiting for advanced users to find. For example, when Microsoft released the Windows 10 October 2018 Update, they slipped in a network packet sniffer that any networking geek will appreciate. Here's how to use it.
How to Restore Missing Hibernate Options in Control PanelHibernate is a power-saving option that saves your computer's current running state to your hard drive before going to sleep. In some cases, you might find hibernate missing from the Control Panel or power options.
How to Reset Microsoft Paint Default Position and Size in Windows 10Microsoft Paint is a simple graphics editor included with Windows 10. When you close Paint, it will remember the position, size, and a white background. Using our registry file or deleting a few registry keys can rest Windows Paint to the default position, size, and color.
How to Turn On or Off File and Printer Sharing in Windows 10File and Printer Sharing in Windows 10 allows you to share files, folders, and printers with other computers on your network. Here are a few ways to enable or disable file and print sharing.
How to Find or Replace Text in Notepad or WordPadWindows includes Notepad, a basic text editor that has a few features, including the ability to search and or replace text. You can find and replace text using the menu or keyboard shortcuts.
How to Disable or Enable Timeline in Windows 10Timeline is a feature that was added to Windows 10 in version 1803. Timeline keeps track of what you're doing, including your browsers, folders, apps, activities, and more. You can stop and resume seamlessly at any time from any device and even sync your activities to the cloud. You can disable or enable Timeline at any time.
How to Add a New Person to Google ChromeGoogle Chrome features the ability to have multiple users or profiles. Whether you have multiple Google Chrome users or want to separate your work profile from a personal profile, having separate profiles is a good idea and easy to do.
How to Fix This App Has Been Blocked for Your Protection ErrorWhile installing an app, you might come across an annoying error that states, "This app has been blocked for your protection. An administrator has blocked you from running this app."
How to Reset File Explorer Navigation Pane Width to DefaultWindows File Explorer has many features and options, including the ability to size the window and navigation pane to any size you need. What it lacks is an option to set the File Explorer width to the default size. Until now.
How to Enable or Disable Ransomware Protection in Windows 10 & 11Windows Defender features Controlled folder access, which can protect files, folders, and memory areas on your computer from unauthorized changes by malicious apps and threats. In this tutorial, we show you how to enable or disable Controlled Folder Access, including adding a Context Menu item.
How to Remove Dropbox From Windows 10 File Explorer Navigation PaneIf you installed the Dropbox app on your Windows 10 computer, you now have a Dropbox icon (shortcut) in File Explorer. The app has no option to remove the icon, but we can remove it in the registry.
How to Restore or Verify Default Services in Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11If you suspect a problem with one of your Services in Windows 7 or 10, here is a list of all Services, including their Service Display Name, Service Name, Status, and Startup Type, to confirm that the Service in question is running correctly. Also, we've created registry files to restore any Windows 7 and 10 Services to their default state.
How to Show or Hide Touch Keyboard Icon in Windows 10Windows 10 comes with a Touch Keyboard most often used on touchscreen computers. You can enable the Touch Keyboard with a taskbar button to easily switch it on or off. Here's how.
How to Enable Mapped Drives in Elevated PowerShell and Command PromptWindows 7, 8, and 10 disable mapped drives by default from an elevated command prompt or elevated PowerShell when UAC is configured to 'Prompt for credentials.' We can bypass the default setting in the Registry.
How to Create a Battery Saver Shortcut in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 has a feature called Battery Saver that limits background activity and adjusts hardware settings to maximize battery time. Battery Saver is on by default, but you can modify or even disable Battery Saver in settings.
How to Turn Off First Sign-in Animation in Windows 10When you a user first signs in or you install a new build or feature of Windows, some animations appear. Many of us find them annoying and time-consuming. Not anymore.
How to Use Emojis in Windows 10Emojis are here to stay, and why not? They're a fun way to get across a point or feelings. Windows 10 has Emojis built into the operating system. Here's how to get started with Emojis in Windows 10.
How to Verify if System Files and Drivers are Digitally Signed in WindowsSystem files and drivers are digitally signed for your protection should any changes occur. If you suspect problems with any of your files or drivers, we can verify if any unsigned files are on your computer.
How to Show or Hide Task View Button in Windows 10 & 11Task View in Windows 10 allows you to see and switch between all open applications. You can use Task View from the Taskbar, or a keyboard shortcut.
How to Turn Taskbar Notification Icons On or Off in Windows 10In the lower-right corner of your screen, you can find many icons for programs that run on Startup and more. In this tutorial, we show you how to remove or to add Taskbar or System icons.
How to Generate a QR Code for Any Website in Google ChromeGoogle Chrome has a hidden option, or experiment, to enable you to generate a QR code for any web page. Here's how to enable and use sharing a page with QR code.
How to Always, Sometimes, or Never Combine Taskbar Buttons in Windows 10The Windows 10 Taskbar is something people like to customize to their tastes and needs. One of the most popular settings is how you see the Taskbar buttons in the lower-right corner.
How to Reset PowerShell and Command Prompt in WindowsBoth Windows PowerShell and the Command Prompt can be customized or modified; however, there is no option to reset to the default settings if problems occur; until now.
How to Add 'Extract All Context' Menu for ZIP FilesWhen you right-click on a ZIP file in Windows, Windows has a couple of options, usually Open or Open with. In this tutorial, we're going to add Extract All to the (right-click) Context Menu.
How to Enable or Disable 'Receive Updates for Other Microsoft Products' in Windows 10 & 11Windows Updates offers the option to update other Microsoft software, including Microsoft Office. In some cases, you may need to disable this feature. Here's how.
How to Enable or Disable Google Chrome Basic or Advanced Spell CheckGoogle Chrome has the option to use the same spell checker used in the Google Search engine. You can use Basic or Advanced search and enable or disable the spell checker.
How to Change Default Drag and Drop Action in Windows 10 & 11Windows has a default action when you drag and drop a file or folder. The files or folders are moved or copied depending on the source and location. We can modify the default actions in the Windows Registry.
How to Install Google Chrome With PowerShellHere's a fun trick for PowerShell geeks. By using a line of code we provide, you can install Google Chrome in minutes.
What Are Windows DCH Drivers?Starting in late 2018, you might have seen the option to download standard or DCH drivers, especially with NVIDIA. In this tutorial, we explain what a DCH driver is and which driver you should use.
How to Change the Default Alt+F4 Shut Down in Windows 10When you press the Alt+F4 keys, Windows 10 will, by default, show Shut Down when you press OK. If you use Alt+F4, you can save some time by changing the default Shut Down to Restart, Sleep, Sign out, or Switch user.
How to Prevent Google Chrome From Storing Your Browser HistoryGoogle Chrome stores your browsing history of websites you visit. The goal is for syncing Google apps, faster searching, recommendations, and more. While there are some limitations, here are two ways you can prevent Google Chrome from storing your browsing history.
Windows Update Error Code 0x80070005Windows Update Error Code 0x80070005 is a failed attempt at updating Windows 10. The error means Access Denied and is often a permissions problem that can be quickly resolved.
What Is the $WinREAgent Folder and Can I Delete It?If you have show hidden files and folders on, you might have noticed a hidden folder named $Winreagent on Windows 10 computers. What is the $Winreagent, and can you delete it?
Quick Format and Full Format ExplainedWhenever you right-click on a drive, you will see the Format option in the Context Menu. Windows defaults to a Quick Format, which can be unchecked, allowing for a Full Format. Which method is best for you, and what are the differences?
Chinese Robocalls ExplainedHave you received robocalls and voicemails with a female speaking in Mandarin Chinese? Here's the reason for those phone calls.
How to Add Services to Control Panel in WindowsWindows 10 now uses Settings, but many people still prefer the Classic Control Panel. Old habits die hard, and that's OK. In this tutorial, we show you how to add Add Services to the classic Control Panel in Windows 10, 8, and 7.
How to Add Disk Management to Control Panel in WindowsWindows 10 now uses Settings, but many people still prefer the Classic Control Panel. Old habits die hard, and that's OK. In this tutorial, we show you how to add Add Disk Management to the classic Control Panel in Windows 10, 8, and 7.
How to Add Advanced User Accounts to Control Panel in WindowsWindows 10 now uses Settings, but many people still prefer the Classic Control Panel. Old habits die hard, and that's OK. In this tutorial, we show you how to add Advanced User Accounts to the classic Control Panel in Windows 10, 8, and 7.
How to Change Default Sound Output Device in Windows 10The default audio playback device is the device that Windows uses to play sound. If you have numerous devices, including headphones, virtual reality, and more, you might need to select the device that is playing audio manually.
How to Enable or Disable IPv6 in Windows 10 and 11The Internet Protocol version 6, or IPv6, is the latest set of protocols for the network layer of the internet with better security, auto-configuration, and more compared with IPv4. While IPv6 is on by default, you might need to disable it occasionally.
How to Add System Configuration (Msconfig) to Control PanelWindows 10 now uses Settings, but many people still prefer the Classic Control Panel. Old habits die hard, and that's OK. In this tutorial, we show you how to add the System Configuration (Msconfig) to the classic Control Panel in Windows 10, 8, and 7.
How to Add Registry Editor to Control Panel in WindowsWindows 10 now uses Settings, but many people still prefer the Classic Control Panel. Old habits die hard, and that's OK. In this tutorial, we show you how to add the Registry Editor (Regedit) to the classic Control Panel in Windows 10, 8, and 7.
How to Add or Remove PIN in Windows 10Windows 10 can use a Face, Fingerprint, Pin, Security Key, Picture Password, or a Microsoft Account to log into Windows 10. Here's how to add or remove "Sign in with a PIN."
How to Add Group Policy Editor to Control Panel in WindowsWindows 10 now uses Settings, but many people still prefer the Control Panel. Old habits die hard, and that's OK. In this tutorial, we show you how to add Group Policy Editor to the classic Control Panel in Windows 10, 8, and 7.
How to Add Color and Appearance to Control Panel in WindowsWindows 10 Settings allows for many ways to change the colors used in the Taskbar, Window Borders, and the Start Menu. If you find yourself using the Control Panel instead of Settings, you can add the Color and Appearance category for more options. Windows 7 and 8 users can also add the Color and Appearance section.
How to Add and Remove Folders in Windows 10 Photos app The Windows 10 Photos apps includes the option to create, import, or delete folders. Here's how.
How to Find, Change, or Remove Number of Days to Go Back to the Previous Version of WindowsOnce you upgrade to Windows 10, or a new feature update, your old installation is saved in the Windows.old folder in case you want to roll back. The backup is saved, by default, for 10 days. In this tutorial, we show you how to find, change, or remove the number of days you can go back to the previous version of Windows.
How to Change Text Size for Title Bars in Windows 10Changing the text size of title bars is an excellent option for those who have vision problems or just want to change things up. In this tutorial, we show you how to change your Title Bar text size in default or bold fonts.
Three Ways to Turn Sticky Keys Off or on in Windows 10Sticky Keys is a Windows feature that many users, especially gamers, find annoying. In this tutorial, we show you a few ways to turn Sticky Keys off or on.
How to Add or Remove Hibernate in Windows 10 Power MenuWhen you press the Start Menu, Win+X, or Ctrl+Alt+Delete, you have different options, including Shut down, Restart, Sleep, Lock, and Hibernate. In this tutorial, we show you how to remove Hibernate from the Windows 10 Power Menu.
How to Add or Remove Lock From the Account Picture Menu in Windows 10When you press the People icon in the Start Menu, you have the option to Lock your computer. In this tutorial, we show you how to remove Lock from the Start Menu.
How to Add or Remove Sleep in Windows 10 Power MenuWhen you press the Start Menu, Win+X, or Ctrl+Alt+Delete, you have different options, including Shut down, Restart, Sleep, Lock, and Hibernate. In this tutorial, we show you how to remove Sleep from the Windows 10 Power Menu.
How to Erase a Disk Using Diskpart Clean Command in WindowsOne of the lesser-known Diskpart commands is clean or clean, all allowing you to wipe a partition or drive, leaving it unallocated and not initialized.
How to Automatically Lock Computer in Windows 10In Windows 10 Pro and Enterprise, you have the option to define the amount of time before your computer is locked. Locking your computer is a good option if you don't want to log out or shut down.
How to Download and Use Start Menu Troubleshooter in Windows 10The Start Menu Troubleshooter is no longer included as a Troubleshooter on Windows 10, but you can still download and use it to resolve Start Menu problems.
How to Show or Hide Most Used Apps on Windows 10 & 11The Windows 10 Start Menu can display up to six of your most-used apps at the top of the Start Menu for easy access. You can enable or disable this option.
How to Always Show Full Address or URL in Mozilla FirefoxMozilla Firefox, by default, hides the http:// and www part of any URL, or web address you type in. If you'd like to see the full address all the time, here's how.
What Is the MSOcache Folder and Can I Delete It?You may have noticed a hidden folder on your hard drive with the name MSOcache. What is the MSOcache folder, and can you delete it?
How to Turn Core Isolation Memory Integrity On or Off in Windows 10 & 11Memory integrity ensures that code running in Windows is trustworthy to protect processes from the injection and execution of malicious or unverified code. In this tutorial, we show you how to turn Core Isolation Memory Integrity on or off.
How to Show More Tiles in the Windows 10 & 11 Start MenuWindows 10, by default, will show three rows of Tiles when you click Start. Based on feedback, Microsoft has added the option to add a fourth row, allowing you to fit more apps on the Start Menu.
How to Restore Default Font Settings in WindowsIn this tutorial, we show you how to restore the default font settings in Windows 10, 8, and 7.
What to Do When Your Norton or McAfee Antivirus ExpireMost computers come bundled with an antivirus program to protect you. Often, these are trials lasting up to one year, and McAfee and Norton are often the ones bundled on OEM computers. In this tutorial, we explain the insanity and give our advice on what you should do.
What Does OEM Mean in Computers?You may have heard the term OEM discussed when discussing computer brands or manufacturers. In this tutorial, we explain what a computer OEM means to you.
How to Fix 'We Can't Sign Into Your Account' and 'You've Been Signed in With a Temporary Profile' in Windows 10In this tutorial, we're going to address two error messages - "We Can't Sign Into Your Account" and "You've Been Signed in With a Temporary Profile."
How to Run an App as Administrator in Windows 10Some applications require that you run them as an administrator, sometimes referred to as elevated. In this tutorial, we show you all the different ways you can run a program as an Administrator.
Can I Get Coronavirus From Mail or Package Deliveries?As we spend time in isolation, many of us are buying products online, which leads us to the question, "can you get coronavirus from the mail or package delivery?
How to Add Repair Windows Image Context Menu in Windows 10In this tutorial, we give you the option to add Repair Windows Image to your Context Menu. The two suboptions added are Check health of Windows Image, and Repair Windows Image.
How to Always Show Full Address or URL in Google ChromeGoogle Chrome, by default, hides the http://www part of any URL, or web address you type in. If you'd like to see the full address all the time, here's how.
How to Add VBScript Script File to New Context Menu in Windows 10A VBScript (Visual Basic Script or VBS) is a text file written in the VBScript scripting language. VBScripts are most frequently executed (double-clicked) within Windows via the Windows-based script host (Wscript.exe). Anyone who spends a lot of time coding in Visual Basic Script will appreciate the ability to create a new VBScript Script File from the Context Menu.
How to Enable or Disable Adaptive Brightness in Windows 10Most laptops and tablets may utilize ambient light sensors to detect surrounding levels of light. The Adaptive Brightness feature in Windows can detect changes in ambient light and automatically adjust the display brightness as needed to match surrounding lighting conditions. Sometimes, this makes your display dark, and you might want to enable or disable Adaptive Brightness.
How to Easily Boot Into Windows Troubleshooting MenuWindows 10 offers a troubleshooting menu that allows you to access Reset this PC, Startup Repair, Startup Settings, Command Prompt, Uninstall Updates, UEFI Firmware Settings, and System Restore. Here's a quick way to access troubleshooting.
How to Create Safe Mode Desktop ShortcutsBooting into Safe Mode can be simple by pressing the F8 key when you reboot, but it can be even easier by creating Desktop shortcuts. Here's how.
Microsoft Solitaire Collection Won't Open in Windows 10In 2012, the Microsoft Solitaire received an updated look and feel for Windows 10. If you can't get the Microsoft Solitaire Collection to run, or you don't have it, here are the steps you can take.
Disable or Enable Automatically Hide Scroll Bars in Windows 10 & 11 AppsWindows 10 UWP apps will hide the scroll bar by default, a minor annoyance to some who prefer to have a visible, easy to click scroll bar. Here's how to get the old-style scroll bar back in your UWP or Windows Store apps, including your Start Menu.
How to Create a Group Video Chat With Facebook (And Other Options)Facebook offers group video chat in Facebook Messenger, and it's an easy way to connect with up to 50 of your friends and family. Here's how you can get started.
When to Test and Replace Your Smoke Detector and BatteriesSmoke detectors are an essential safety feature of your home, but it's easy to forget about them until it's too late. Here are some often overlooked tips to make sure your smoke detector is working correctly.
How to Disinfect Your Smartphone and CaseDo you clean or disinfect your smartphone regulatory? While many of us rarely consider disinfecting our smartphones, the Coronavirus has drawn attention to the need to clean your smartphone regularly.
Oculus Rift - Your Antivirus Software Blocked InstallationRecently, while installing Asgard's Wrath, we received an error message that our antivirus blocked the installation. We've also had reports of other Oculus game downloads with the same error. Here's how to get your game installed.
Coronavirus Time Killer - Back Up Your ComputerWith many people self-quarantining or out of work, they have resorted to desperate measures - cleaning or painting their house, cooking dinner, and *GASP* checking off all those little projects on their honey-do list. With so many people returning to their laptops and desktops, now would be a good time to back up your valuable data.
How to Add or Remove 'New' Context Menu in Windows 10When you right-click on your Desktop or in File Explorer, you have the option to create new folders, compressed folders, shortcuts, images, and documents. In this tutorial, we show you how to remove the New Context Menu option.
How to Enable Local Security Policy (secpol.msc) in Windows 10 HomeThe Local Security Policy (secpol.msc) in Windows 10 contains information about the security of a local computer. If you're trying to access Local Security Policy in Windows 10 Home, you will receive an error that that says Windows 10 can't find secpol.msc. In this tutorial, we show you how to enable the Local Security Policy in Windows 10 Home.
How to Rename a Network Profile Name in Windows 10In this tutorial, we show you how to rename your ethernet or Wi-Fi connection name.
How to Enable or Disable Network Scanning in Windows DefenderWindows Defender has been known to show a bug that returns the error "items skipped during the scan." In this tutorial, we show you how to enable, or disable network scanning, if you're having that problem or you just want to enable or disable network scanning.
Windows Defender Fails to Scan or Skips Some FilesA recent bug has appeared in Windows Defender in Windows 10 that can cause some virus scans to fail and or show a message that tells you that some unspecified items were skipped during the scan." Here's the fix.
4 Ways to View Pictures as a Slideshow in Windows 10Many of us have hundreds or thousands of photos on their hard drive. In this tutorial, we show you how you can view your pictures in a slideshow.
How to Hide Nearby Wi-Fi Connections From Your List of NetworksIf you have a long list of available neighboring Wi-Fi profiles in your Network Profiles, you can remove one or all of them from your list of Network Profiles or available networks.
3 Ways to Delete a Wireless Network Profile in Windows 10Whenever you connect to a wireless connection, a new profile is created that contains your password key, network name, and security information. Here are a few ways you can delete a network profile.
How to Enable Two-Page View for PDF Documents in Google ChromeBeginning with Google Chrome build 83, you will be able to use a two-page view for PDF files. Here's how.
How to Change Recycle Bin Storage Size in Windows 10 & 11The Recycle Bin holds onto files you've deleted until you're sure you want them permanently deleted. In some cases, you may need more or less space reserved for the Recycle Bin. Modifying the storage size is simple to do.
How to Turn Off Monitor Only on DemandMost of us rely on Power Options to decide when our monitor turns off. In this tutorial, we give you the option of only turning off your monitor as needed on demand.
Coronavirus or COVID-19 Scams to AvoidScammers can make good money at their trickery, and while many of us are in isolation, laid off, or working from home, the scammers are also not willing to take a pay cut.
How to Add Primary NVMe Idle Timeout to Power Options in Windows 10The Primary NVMe Idle Timeout setting specifies the amount of time your NVMe device must be idle before transitioning to the primary non-operational power state, for example, before switching to power-saving mode. The setting is hidden by default but easily enabled.
5 Websites to Track the Coronavirus (COVID-19) LiveMany tech companies, and even a 17-year old computer whiz from Seattle, have provided us with live statistics of the Coronavirus, or COVID-19. Here are some of the best.
How to Add System File Checker (sfc scannow) Context Menu in WindowsMicrosoft System File Checker is a useful, built-in utility that can scan for and restore corrupted files in Windows. It is often used and recommended by techs and advanced users, however, it's relatively simple to use. You can also add System File Checker to your Context Menu in Windows 7, 8, and 10.
How to Add or Remove 'Turn off hard disk after' from Power OptionsAdvanced Power Options allows you to change when your hard drive powers down. If you have a laptop or tablet, you have two options; plugged in and on battery. You can hide this option so people can't change it. Here's how.
Here Are All the Rundll32 Commands for Windows 10Windows Rundll32.exe loads and runs 32-bit dynamic link libraries or DLLs. You can launch most Windows Settings or create shortcuts if you know the Windows Rundll32.exe commands, and here they all are.
How to Add, Remove, or Rearrange Quick Actions in Windows 10Windows 10 has an Action Center found in the lower-right corner of your screen. The Action Center features Quick Actions, including location, Bluetooth, night light, airplane mode, VPN, and more. In this tutorial, we show you how to add, remove, and rearrange the Quick Action to suit your taste.
How to Disable Downloaded Files from being Blocked in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 has an Attachment Manager designed to protect you from opening potentially unsafe files downloaded from the internet, or email. Advanced users may want to disable this feature, even if only temporarily.
How to View Windows Update History in Windows 10Windows Updates are done automatically, once a week, on the day we know as Patch Tuesday. Sometimes you need to know what updates were installed. Here's how.
How to Turn On or Off Network Discovery (Make this PC Discoverable)Beginning with Windows 10 build 1803, the option to Make this PC discoverable or Network Discovery has been removed. Microsoft claims that the setting may return, but you can still turn Network Discovery on or off.
How to Pin Xbox Game Bar Widgets in Windows 10The Xbox Game Bar offers widgets that overlay other Windows. The Performance Widget is one that most gamers will appreciate because you can track processor (CPU), graphics (GPU), and memory (RAM) load at all times.
Shift Key Enables or Disables Caps LockThe Caps Lock key can be annoying to many, but we've also seen a problem where the Shift key turns on the Cap Lock key. Whether you are having that problem or want to use the Shift key as the Caps lock key, here's how.
How to Disable or Enable Thumbnail Previews in File ExplorerFile Explorer can show thumbnails images or icons for files and folders on your computer. In this tutorial, we show you how to disable or enable thumbnail previews in Windows.
How to Add or Remove Run as administrator Context MenuSome programs require you run them as an administrator. If you right-click on any executable, you will see the option to Run as administrator. You can remove this option. Here's how.
How to Turn On or Off Connect Automatically to Wireless NetworkWindows 10 gives you the option to connect to a wireless network automatically. In this tutorial, we look at how to turn on or off Connect automatically.
5GHz Wi-Fi Not Showing up in Windows Wireless adapters can run in 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz, which also is referred to as bands in Windows. If you're experiencing problems with your 5GHz Wi-Fi not appearing in Windows, here are the steps you can try, including verifying that 5GHz is supported.
How to Disable Automatic Maintenance in Windows 10Automatic Maintenance in Windows 10 automatically runs maintenance on a daily schedule at a time you pick, or when the computer is not being used, usually at night. Maintenance can include Windows Updates, security scans, diagnostics, and software updates. In this tutorial, we show you how to disable or enable Automatic Maintenance.
How to Show or Hide File Name Extensions in File Explorer Context MenuFile Explorer hides file extension types by default. With a simple registry tweak, you can show, or hide, file extensions for known types.
How to View Windows Defender Protection History in Windows 10 & 11Windows Security includes Virus & threat protection that keeps track of any found threats. Here's how to view and manage any Windows Defender threats.
How to Disable AutoEndTasks at Shut Down, Restart, or Sign OutHungAppTimeout, or AutoEndTasks, is a feature that pauses Windows from shutting down, restarting, or signing out so that any open work isn't lost or if an app didn't close. With a simple registry edit, we can disable this from happening.
How to Change DPI Scaling Level in Windows 10 & 11In this tutorial, we look at what DPI Scaling is, what the numbers mean, and how you can customize it exactly as you want.
Use Task Manager to Find What Processes and Apps Are Using the Most Power ConsumptionThe Windows 10 Task Manager has added options to view Power usage and Power usage trends. You can use this feature to find out what apps are using the most processor, graphics, and hard drive resources.
How to Create a Slide to Shut Down Shortcut in Windows 10To be able to slide to shut down your touchscreen device, you need to access the SlideToShutDown.exe. In this tutorial, we'll create a shortcut to the executable.
How to Check PowerShell Version in WindowsPowerShell is a cross-platform automation and configuration tool/framework that works well with your existing tools and is optimized for dealing with structured data, REST APIs, and object models. You might want to know what version you currently have.
How to Add or Remove the Recycle Bin to File Explorer Navigation in Windows 10 & 11The Recycle Bin is a Windows feature that saves deleted files so they can be restored. While we all empty the Recycle Bin regularly, having the Recycle Bin in the File Explorer Navigation Pane can be a handy feature.
6 Ways to Empty the Recycle Bin in Windows 10 & 11The Recycle Bin is a nice feature that saves deleted files so they can easily be restored. While we all empty the Recycle Bin regularly, there are many ways to empty it that should suit your needs.
How to Find Devices That Can Wake Your ComputerIf your computer is being woken up from Sleep or Hibernate, finding the cause is simple for any skill level. Here's how.
How to Remove or Restore Previous Versions From Context Menu and PropertiesWindows 10 offers a feature to restore a previous version of files, folders, and drives when possible with a Restore Point, File History, or Windows backup. If you never use this option, removing it from the Context Menu can clean things up.
How to Move Libraries Above or Below This PC in File ExplorerIf you use the Libraries links (Documents, Music, Videos, Pictures) in File Explorer frequently, you've noticed that it's at the bottom and with This PC and Quick Access expanded, often out of sight. With a simple registry tweak, you can move Libraries above This PC for easy access.
How to Disable or Enable Wide Context Menus in Windows 10The Context Menu in Windows 10 is now slightly darker and wider than it was initially. In this tutorial, you can decide to revert to the older style Context Menu.
How to Use Windows Store Apps TroubleshooterThe Windows Store is one of those things that most of us don't use, but sometimes you have no choice. There is a list of known problems with the Store (see similar links below) that can prove frustrating. One of the easier ways is to use the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter.
How to Turn Off Shortcut Name Extensions in Windows 10 & 11Anytime you create a shortcut, you have to look at - Shortcut added the extension. In this tutorial, we're going to make sure that any shortcuts you create in the future no longer have the Shortcut extension.
How to Open the Windows 10 Win+X Quick Link MenuWhile we're all used to using the Windows 10 Start Menu, the Windows Key + X combination can be a real timesaver with shortcuts to many Windows settings, apps, and more. Here are the ways you can use the Win+X menu.
How to Fix a Corrupted Recycle Bin in WindowsWhile the recycle Bin rarely causes problems, we've seen times where it can become corrupted. Symptoms include not being able to empty or delete an item from the recycle bin. Here are the steps to fix the problem.
How to Disable App Launch Tracking in Windows 10App Launch Tracking is a Windows 10 feature that can show you a list of most used apps in the Start Menu. Today, we're going to remove that option from your Start Menu. You can have a cleaner and faster Start Menu if you don't like or need this feature.
How to Move Your Downloads Folder in WindowsWindows 10 keeps your download folder in C:\Users\YOUR NAME\Downloads by default. In this tutorial, we show you how to move the Downloads folder to a different location.
How to Switch from Windows 10 S to Windows 10 Home, Pro, Enterprise, or EducationWindows 10 S Mode is designed for speed and security, only allowing you to install apps from the Microsoft Store. Windows 10 S is often found on cheaper laptops to cut costs and make a device more secure. In this tutorial, we look at how to switch to Windows 10 Home, Pro, Enterprise, or Education.
How to Change Preferred Band (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz) for Wireless Network AdaptersWireless adapters can run in 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz, which Windows refers to as bands. If you're experiencing problems with your wireless connection, you could try and specify the preferred band.
How to Check if User Accounts are Administrator or Standard UsersStandard users and Administrators have separate permissions in Windows 10. Standard users can't run anything that requires elevated privileges. In this tutorial, we show you a few ways to check if a user is a Standard or Administrator Account.
How to Fix Windows Date and Time Changing or WrongAs a habit, we are used to looking at the clock on our computers. But, what happens when the date and time are wrong or changing? There are a few possible solutions to this problem.
How to Change Power Plan Settings in Windows 10Windows 10 provides default power plans as well as the hidden Ultimate performance plan. In this tutorial, we look at how to make changes to your current Power Plan.
How to Rename Your Sound Input or Output DevicesIf you don't like the names of your sound input (microphone) or sound output (default speaker), you can easily rename them. Here's how.
5 Ways to Activate Windows 10 & 11Microsoft has listened to user feedback and made the process of activating Windows as easy as possible. You can even use Windows 10 without activating, but you won't be able to personalize Windows 10. In this tutorial, we simplify the five ways you can activate Windows 10.
11 Ways to Open Device ManagerDevice Manager allows you to see all of your Windows hardware and properties. You can get details, view, update and roll back drivers, details, events, resources, and more. Here are all the ways to open Device Manager.
How to Turn On, or Off Find My Device in Windows 10Windows 10 Find my device allows you to track your device if you've lost it. Find my device periodically tracks your device's location on a map. You can turn Find my device on or off as needed.
How to Add or Remove Burn disc image Context Menu in Windows 10In this tutorial, we are adding a Context Menu item that appears when you right-click on an ISO or IMG file to immediately open Windows Disk Image Burner.
How to Restore or Reset Default Windows Defender Firewall Settings in Windows 10 & 11If you find that you need to restore or reset your Windows Firewall settings, here are a few ways to do so.
How to Add Any Printer to the Send to Context MenuIn this tutorial, we're going to add any printers you like to the Context Menu Send to option to make printing easier. If you use the Context Menu frequently to print or have multiple printers, this can be a real time saver.
How to Add Unblock File Context Menu in Windows 10 & 11Windows Attachment Manager categorizes files into categories; High Rish, Moderate Risk, and Low Risk. After that, Windows SmartScreen warns you before opening a questionable file. We can simplify this process by adding a Context Menu item that allows you to right-click and unblock a folder and or the folder's contents.
How to Hide Device Performance and Health From Windows SecurityWindows Security is now an all-in-one suite built into Windows 10 to monitor and protect your computer from all types of threats.
How to Enable or Disable Always Prompt for Password Upon Remote Desktop ConnectionThe Remote Desktop Connection (mstsc.exe, RDC, Microsoft Remote Desktop) allows you to connect and control your computer from another device. One small problem is that a user can save their credentials and automatically connect. In this tutorial, we can change the default setting, so the client must enter a password every time they connect.
How to Find, View, and Save Windows Spotlight Background Images in Windows 10Windows Spotlight can show you different backgrounds and suggestions on your lock screen. In this tutorial, we give you the option to view and back up all of your Windows Spotlight images.
How to Read the Event Viewer Log for Check DiskWhen you check a drive for errors, the details are saved in your event logs in Event Viewer. Here's how to view your Check Disk (Chkdsk) log, or events.
How to Find Motherboard Manufacturer, Model, Serial Number, and VersionSometimes you need to find out what type of motherboard your computer has for warranty, replacement, BIOS updates, or even to find compatible parts. You don't need to take your computer apart to find out this information. Here's how.
How to Pin the Recycle Bin to the Taskbar in Windows 10Accessing the recycle bin can be a bit of a nuisance if you frequently access it from the Desktop. In this tutorial, we show you how to pin the Recycle Bin to the Taskbar for easy access.
How to Backup and Restore Sticky Notes in WindowsSticky Notes is a preinstalled app included in Windows that allows you to keep notes. Windows will keep your notes stored in the cloud, so backing up is never a concern, assuming you want to login. If you prefer not to log in, we can still backup and restore your Sticky Notes.
How to Turn On or Off Password Protected SharingWith Password Protected Sharing turned on, anyone with a local user account and password can access Public folders, shared files, and printers. With Password Protected Sharing turned off, you can share files with any users without an account and password. Here's how to turn Password Protected Sharing on or off.
How to Show or Hide Your Email Address on the Sign-In ScreenBy default, Windows 10 will hide your email address on the sign-in screen. In this tutorial, we show you where to find the option to show or hide your email address.
How to Turn System Protection on or off in Windows 10System Protection is where you go to manage System Restore. You can delete restore points, choose how much space is allocated, and in this tutorial, you can also turn System Protection on or off.
How to Add Install Cab File to the Context Menu in Windows 10 & 11A CAB, or Cabinet file, is a compressed file most often seen with Windows Updates (although they tend to use MSU more often now). Other times, people have downloaded files, like Realtek drivers. In this tutorial, we can add a Context Menu (right-click) to install a cab file.
How to Customize Fonts, Colors, Window Size and More With Powershell or Command PromptAnyone who has used PowerShell or Comand Prompt might be surprised to find a wealth of options to change font size and type, window size, windows position, colors, and more.
How to Add Inherited Permissions Context MenuChanging Inherited Permissions on a file can be a cumbersome process. Using these registry files will save you from using the Command Prompt or going through numerous steps.
How to View and Remove All Windows 10 ThemesMicrosoft has made installing Themes for Windows 7, 8, 8.1 and 10 easier than ever by using themepacks. In this tutorial, we show you how to view and remove all of your installed themepacks.
How to Make Multiple Taskbar Buttons Automatically Switch to the Last Active WindowAs you already know, all apps with multiple Windows open are found in a single button on the Taskbar. You can line your mouse over, then click on the window you want to open, or press CTRL and click and scroll through the Windows. With a simple registry change, we can make it, so you only need to click to open the last active window simply by clicking the Taskbar icon.
How to Get Full Details About a Windows 10 Installation ISOThe most common way to install Windows 10 now is by using an ISO file. The ISO format is used almost exclusively to compress large files. In this guide, we look at how to get all the details of Windows 10 installation ISO, including edition, size, build, language, version, and more.
How to Open and Use a Cab File in WindowsA CAB, or Cabinet file, is a compressed file most often seen with Windows Updates (although they tend to use MSU more often now). Other times, people have downloaded files, like Realtek drivers, and aren't sure how to use them. Here's all you need to know.
How to Add or Remove User Folder in File Explorer Navigation PaneFile Explorer has many options to customize how you find files and folders. There are also some hidden features we can enable. In this tutorial, we're going to add a User folder to the Navigation Pane.
How to Stop Automatic Driver Updates That OEM's Can Now Push Through WindowsIf you haven't heard, as of February 26, 2020, OEM's (Original Equipment Manufacturers) can now push their drivers onto your computer through Windows Updates, and the new setting is on by default. Companies include NVIDIA and AMD. Here's what you need to know and whether or not you should disable this feature.
How to Add or Remove 'Devices and Printers' to This PC in Windows 10 & 11Device and Printers is a collection of links to your devices, including your hardware, printers, and networking devices. Right-click on any item to see settings, create a shortcut, remove devices, troubleshoot, properties, and more. In this tutorial, we're going to add Devices and Printers to This PC in File Explorer.
How to Rename Your PC in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 computers all have names to identify and communicate on a network. In this tutorial, we discuss how to rename your computer and what is allowed or not.
How to Disable the Task Manager in Windows 10The Task Manager in Windows 10 is a useful function to monitor and manage Processes, Services, Startup, Performance, Users, and App History. Some organizations (schools, businesses) may want to disable Task Manager to keep prying eyes out. Here's how.
5 Ways to Open Administrative Tools in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 Administrative tools contain many useful tools for advanced users and system administrators. There are some tools that anyone will appreciate, including Disk Cleanup, Services, System Information, Defragment, and Memory Diagnostics. Here are five ways you can open Administrative Tools.
How to Back Up Google DriveGoogle Drive is a popular cloud-based backup program that allows you to backup and store up to 15GB for free. In this tutorial, we show you how to download your Google Drive files for backup purposes.
How to Add or Remove 'Delete Folder Contents' Context Menu in Windows 10If you find that you are frequently deleting the contents of your folders and subfolders and don't like to use the Recycle Bin, we have the perfect solution.
How to Add Restart With Options Context Menu in Windows 10We're all familiar with restarting our computer, but there are times where you wish you had additional restart options. In this tutorial, we're going to add a Desktop Context Menu to give you multiple restart options.
How to Add Shut Down With Options Context Menu in Windows 10We're all familiar with shutting down or computer, but there are times where you wish you had additional shutdown options. In this tutorial, we're going to add a Desktop Context Menu to give you multiple shutdown options.
How to Show or Hide the Windows Ink Workspace ButtonWindows Ink puts the power of Windows 10 at the tip of your pen. Windows Ink enables you to write on your device as you do on paper. In this tutorial, we show you how to show or hide Windows Ink Workspace on your Taskbar.
How to Check Driver Model WDDM Version in WindowsWDDM (Windows Display Driver Model) is a display driver architecture introduced with Windows Vista that improves graphics performance over the previous architecture by more fully utilizing a computer's GPU to render system graphics. In this tutorial, we check your WDDM version to see if it's correct.
How to Manage Virtual Memory (Pagefile) in Windows 10 /11The Pagefile in Windows 10 is a hidden file (pagefile.sys) found in the root fo your C drive. The Pagefile is data on your drive that works like virtual memory, reducing the workload of your physical memory or RAM (Random Access Memory). In this tutorial, we discuss how to change your virtual memory settings.
How to Add or Remove 'Edit With Paint 3D' Context Menu in Windows 10When you right-click on a photo, Windows 10 will offer the option to Edit with Paint 3D. In this tutorial, we will remove that option from your Context Menu.
How to Add or Remove 'Edit With Photos' Context Menu in Windows 10When you right-click on a photo, Windows 10 will offer the option to Edit with Photos. In this tutorial, we will remove that option from your Context Menu.
How to Add File Attributes Context Menu in Windows 10File attributes are metadata associated with computer files that define file system behavior with two options; set and cleared. Attributes are different than other metadata, such as dates and times, filename extensions, or file system permissions. In this tutorial, we will add the Attribute option to the Context Menu.
How to Downgrade from Windows 10 Enterprise to Windows 10 ProDowngrading from Windows 10 Enterprise to Windows 10 Pro can be as easy as changing your product key. Here's how.
How to Switch Between Command Prompt or PowerShell on Win+X MenuMost people prefer either the Command Prompt or PowerShell. We get it. In this tutorial, we show you how to choose whether you see the Command Prompt or PowerShell on your Win+X menu.
How to Switch Between a Microsoft and Local Account in Windows 10Windows 10 allows you to sign in to a Local or Microsoft account, and you can easily switch between accounts. Here's how.
How to Move Your Desktop, 3D Objects, Downloads, Pictures, Music, and Video Folder Locations in Windows 10Windows 10 saves all of the default folders, including Desktop, Documents, Downloads, Pictures, Music, Videos, and 3D Objects in your User Profile folder located in C:\Users\User Name. In this tutorial, we show you how to move those folders to another location.
How to Add or Remove 'Pin to Taskbar' Context Menu in Windows 10In this tutorial, we free up a little more Context Menu space by removing the "Pin to Taskbar" option.
How to Change Automatic Maintenance Settings in Windows 10Automatic Maintenance runs scheduled maintenance daily when your computer is not in use. These tasks include updates, security scans, and system diagnostics. In this tutorial, we can change the scheduled time and decide if Automatic Maintenance can wake your computer.
How to Move the Windows 10 Search Box to the Top or BottomToday we're going to move the search bar from the bottom to the top. Why? Why not? :)
Fix - You Don’t Have Permission to Shut Down This ComputerMicrosoft has confirmed a problem related to a Windows Update and Adobe Creative Cloud, where users are unable to shut down their Windows 10 computers.
How to Turn Windows Update Restart Notifications On or Off Windows 10 will notify you when Windows Updates are ready to install. You may see a popup and a notification in the system tray. Advanced users might want to disable these notifications.
How to Install or Uninstall Windows Media Player in Windows 10Windows Media Player is the default player for all video and audio files on Windows 10. In this tutorial, we show you how to install, uninstall, enable or disable the Windows Media Player.
How to Create a Task View Shortcut in Windows 10The Task View in Windows 10 shows all open windows so you can jump to any open application, document, file, or whatever. In this tutorial, we will create a shortcut plus discuss other ways to open Task View.
How to Find all Group Policy Editor ChangesGroup Policy Editor is one way to make Windows changes that aren't ordinarily available in Windows Settings. It's available for Windows 10 Pro and Enterprise users, but Windows 10 Home users can also enable it using this trick. In this tutorial, we show you how to find all the changes you made in the Group Policy Editor.
How to Add or Remove 'Maximum processor frequency' in Windows 10 & 11Maximum processor frequency specifies the operating frequency of your CPU's core. Maximum processor frequency is hidden and set to 0 by default, which means your processor runs as fast as allowed. Advanced users can slow down the processor if your computer is running hot or consuming too much power.
4 Ways to Turn On or Off Windows Defender Real-time ProtectionWindows Security and Windows Defender protect your computer in real-time from viruses, ransomware, and more. There are times that you need to disable Defender, usually, because of a blocked file or website you know is safe. In this tutorial, we give you a few options to temporarily disable Windows Defender real-time protection.
How to Show Your Windows 10 & 11 Version and Build Number on the DesktopThere are many ways to find your Windows 10 version and build number, but if you find yourself looking this information up frequently, you can display the version and build number directly on your Desktop.
How to Clear Your Location History in Windows 10 & 11If you use Windows location services, you might want to clear your location history occasionally, especially if you've moved. Luckily, clearing your location history is easy to do. Here's how.
How to Restore Previous Versions of Files, Folders, and Drives in Windows 10Windows can restore a previous version of files, folders, and drives, assuming Restore Points, File History, or Windows Backup are enabled. Here's how.
How to Fix Printer Error 0x000007d1Error 0x000007d1 is a printer error that often appears after a Windows Update. The full error message might read, "Operation could not be completed (error 0x000007d1), The specified driver is invalid." In this tutorial, we show you the possible solutions.
How to Add or Remove 'Cast to Device' Context Menu in Windows 10Cast to Device is a feature of Windows 10 (formerly called Play to Device) that allows you to stream content from your computer to your television, Xbox, or any Miracast or DLNA supported device. If you don't use Cast to Device, then removing the Context Menu item can help clean things up.
How to Activate a Window by Hovering Over It With the MouseWindows requires you to click on a window for that window to be active, or in focus. In this tutorial, we show you how to make a window active by merely hovering your mouse over it.
How to Reset the Screenshot Index Counter With a Batch File or Context MenuAnyone who takes a lot of screenshots knows that those images are saved with incremental numbers, similar to how a digital camera stores photos. In this tutorial, we show you how to clear out the screenshot index counter with a batch file or even add the option to your context menu for quick access.
How to Enable or Disable the Lock Screen in Windows 10 & 11Pressing the Windows Key + L will automatically lock your computer, requiring you to log in or sign in again. In this tutorial, we show you how to disable or enable the Lock Computer option in the Registry.
How to Reset Folder View Settings in Windows 10File Explorer has numerous options to change the view to suit your preferences. If you've found that your File Explorer view has changed so much that it's easier to start fresh, then we can reset File Explorer to the default view.
How to Shut Down or Restart Your PC Using PowerShell or Command PromptTypically, most of us turn off our Windows computers using Start > Power, but by using the Command Prompt, many more options are available to you.
How to Find Your Microsoft Store Downloads & Temporary FilesIf you've ever used the Microsoft Store, then you've probably noticed that your downloads aren't in the Downloads folder.
How to Add or Remove Quick Launch Toolbar in WindowsThe Quick Launch toolbar is a convenient way to add shortcuts to your Taskbar, where you can drag and drop almost anything you need to access quickly. Also, you can have the options to show your Desktop and switch between programs.
Fix: Windows 10 Search is DownMicrosoft continues to break search, this time breaking Windows Search while we wait for them to fix File Explorer Search. Here's a quick fix to get your Search back online.
How to View and Clear Your Reliability History in Windows 10 & 11Reliability history is a system stability overview that tracks events that impact the reliability of your computer. It provides a System Stability Index with a rating of 1 (stable) to 10 (least stable). In this tutorial, we show you how to open the Reliability History and check your System Stability Index score.
How to Clear All Event Logs in Event Viewer in WindowsThe Event Viewer in Windows details events that happened with your computer and that information is saved as Event Logs that you can view or clear anytime. Here's how.
How to Enable or Disable Ethernet Metered Connection in Windows 10In this tutorial, we look at enabling or disabling a metered connection, something handy for those who are using a limited data plan, or a cellular connection.
How to Reset and Clear Frequent Places and Recent Items in Windows 10In this tutorial, we look at how to reset and clear Frequent Places and Recent Items, which can become longer over time.
How to Add Windows Defender to the Context Menu in Windows 10In this tutorial, we are adding Windows Defender to your Context Menu so you can access Windows Defender to scan a file or folder, and access Windows Defender and Security from the Desktop.
How to Pin or Unpin Locations From Quick Access in Windows 10File Explorer in Windows 10 features Quick Access, which replaced Favorites. You can pin or unpin folders, local and network drives, Recycle Bin, and Libraries.
How to Find the Serial Number of Your Windows PCMost computers have a unique Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) serial number that can help the manufacturer identify your Windows computer if you need support. In this tutorial, we show you how to receive your serial number.
How to Add or Remove New Folder Context Menu in Windows 10Customizing your Context Menu (right-click) can make life easier. In this tutorial, we show you how to move the New Folder context menu entry to the New context menu foldout to free up some space.
How to Add Rotate Image Left or Right to the Windows 10 Context MenuWindows 10 has a feature to rotate an image. In this tutorial, we show you how to add Rotate right and Rotate left to the Context Menu (right-click).
How to Create a Power Plan in WindowsAt some point, many of us have edited our power plans. In this tutorial, we look at how to create a custom power plan to suit your needs.
Restore File Explorer Classic Search in Windows 10For some time now, Microsoft has changed the Live Search in File Explorer frustrating many users and costing us hours of productivity. On their first attempt to fix the problem, they pulled a Microsoft and screwed the pooch. We now have a fix for the problem.
How to Turn the Game Bar on or off in Windows 10Most Windows 10 users have a feeling one way or another about the Xbox Game Bar. But, what if you use it occasionally? In this tutorial, we show you how to turn the Xbox Game Bar on or off as needed.
How to Dismiss Windows 10 Notification With Keyboard ShortcutsHow to Dismiss Windows 10 Notification With Keyboard Shortcuts
How to View and Delete Your Off-Facebook ActivityIt's no secret that Facebook has a lot of built-in tracking, and many of us try to avoid that as much as possible. Facebook has now added an option called Off-Facebook Activity to view or delete the information you've shared with Facebook, including websites and apps.
Microsoft Defender Threat Service Has Stopped - 2020In this tutorial, we look at issues with Windows Defender having a yellow exclamation point, red X, and or Windows Defender Security Center says, "Threat Service Has Stopped" or "Virus protection is turned off."
How to Turn Diagnostic Data Settings on or off in Windows 10 & 11In this tutorial, we look at what Diagnostic data is sent from your Windows 10 computer to Microsft and how to change the settings.
Enable or Disable Enhanced Mode for Windows Search in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 has added many settings to manage Windows Search. By default, Classic mode is on by default, which only searches your libraries and Desktop. The Enhanced mode can search your entire PC. In this tutorial, we help you choose between the two and customize Windows 10 Search.
How to Install or Uninstall Microsoft WordPad in Windows 10Microsoft WordPad is a rich text editor that's better than Notepad but has fewer features than Microsoft Word, which comes with Microsoft Office. In this tutorial, we look at how to uninstall or install WordPad.
How to Add 'Open Command Window Here' Context MenuIn this tutorial, we show you how to add 'Open Command Window Here' to your Context Menu (right-click) on Windows 10, 8, and 7.
How to Show or Hide the Search Box or Search Icon in Windows 10Windows 10 offers many ways to customize how everything works and looks. If you use Windows Search frequently, here are a few ways to access Search quickly from the Taskbar.
8 Ways to Open Task Manager in Windows 10 & 11The Task Manager in Windows is one application geeks turn to regularly. Task Manager serves as a monitoring tool, and you can manage processes, services, startup, and more. Here are the many ways you can access the Task Manager.
How to Add Details Pane to the File Explorer Context MenuIf you prefer to get the most space from File Explorer, but occasionally need the Details pane, you can add the option to the Context Menu to easily enable or disable the Preview Pane whenever you like.
How to Remove or Customize Holidays on the iPhone Calendar AppApple has added so many holidays and calendar events that the calendar has become cluttered with so many days, it's become difficult to spot the calendar events you care about.
How to Fix 'Something Happened' When Installing or Updating Windows 10Some Windows 7 and 8 users might see an error message that reads, "Something happened. Sorry, we’re having trouble determining if your PC can run Windows 10. Please close Setup and try again." In this tutorial, we look at the possible causes.
How to Fix Microsoft Store - Try That AgainIn this tutorial, we look at fixing the Microsoft Store error - Try that again. Page could not be loaded. Please try again later.
How to Permanently and Securely Delete Your Facebook AccountDeleting or deactivating your Facebook account is easy to do; however, you might want to use this checklist to make sure all of your personal information, apps, and devices are no longer shared or in use.
How to Enable or Disable TRIM Support for SSD (Solid State Drives)In this tutorial, we show you how to tell if TRIM is enabled or disable don your computer for both NTFS and ReFs drives.
How to See if Power Throttling is Enabled in Windows 10Power Throttling is designed to reduce CPU power consumption on battery-powered devices and extend battery life. Power Throttling should be on by default on laptops, but if you suspect Power Throttling is disabled, here's how to check.
How to Clear and Reset the Microsoft Store Cache in Windows 10If you're having problems with the Microsoft Store, including downloading, installing, or updating, then clearing the Store cache may solve the problem. Here's how.
How to Count How Many Items Are in Your Start MenuMost of us use the Windows Start Menu every day and noticed we have a ton of apps. Have you ever wondered just how many apps and pinned items you have? Here's how.
How to Turn on or off Fix Scaling for Apps That Are Blurry in Windows 10Windows 10 features a Fix scaling for apps feature that can fix the problem of blurry apps that can appear randomly. There are numerous ways, as always, to turn on or off the Fix Scaling option.
How to Use the Graphing Calculator in Windows 10A graphing calculator is capable of plotting graphs, solving simultaneous equations, and performing other tasks with variables. Most of us currently use a third-party app or online graphing calculator, but Microsoft is adding a graphing calculator to the Windows 10 Calculator for free.
Stop ‘Your Weekend Recap’ Notifications in Windows 10 Photos AppThe Windows 10 Photos app will show you recent events occasionally that are called Your Weekend Recap. In this tutorial, we show you how to disable this notification.
How to Add, Delete or Change Languages in Google ChromeGoogle Chrome has the option to add or change languages built into the Chromium-based browser. In this tutorial, we show you how to add or change your language.
How to Add, Delete or Change Languages in Microsoft EdgeMicrosoft Edge has the option to add or change languages built into the Chromium-based browser. In this tutorial, we show you how to add or change your language.
How to Add 'Secure Delete' to the Windows 10, 8 and 7 Context MenuAnyone who needs to delete files regularly might appreciate the option to delete files securely. In this tutorial, we show you how to add 'Secure Delete' to the right-click Context Menu.
How to Change the Taskbar Location in WindowsThe Windows Taskbar is at the bottom, and the full width, of your screen. It's where you find Start, open apps, and shortcuts to Windows Security, volume, internet, and more. While you're used to it being at the bottom, in this tutorial, we show you how to move the Taskbar any side of your screen.
How to Turn Toggle Key Sounds on or off in Windows 10If you accidentally hit the Caps Lock, Num Lock, or Scroll Lock, you can have Windows 10 play a tone anytime you touch one of those three buttons. Here's how.
How to Check If Users Are Local or Microsoft Accounts in Windows 10Windows 10 allows you to sign in to Windows as a Local Account or Microsoft Account. In this tutorial, we show you how to tell if a user is a Microsoft account or a Local account and how to switch from one to the other.
How to Uninstall Microsoft People in Windows 10Microsoft People is a contact management app and address book included in Microsoft's Windows 8 and 10 that allows you to organize and link contacts from different email accounts. However, you can't uninstall People from Apps & Features.
How to Use Slmgr to View, Install, Uninstall, Activate, or Extend Your Windows LicenseWindows licensing and activation can be a real hassle. We get it. Using PowerShell or the Command-Prompt and Software Licensing Management Tool (SLMGR), we can remove, install, change, or extend your Windows license on local and remote computers.
Error 0xc0020036 - the Product Key You Entered Did Not WorkError 0xc0020036 is an error that appears when activating Windows, indicating that you might have a pirated version of Windows even when you know your copy of Windows is genuine.
How to Disable or Enable Hibernate in Windows 10 & 11Hibernate is when Windows 10 saves an image of the Windows kernel and drivers into memory (C:\hiberfil.sys) when your computer sleeps and then loads that hiberfile to resume rather than restart your computer. In this tutorial, we show you how to enable or disable hibernate.
How to Turn Fast Startup On or Off in Windows 10 & 11Fast startup, also called hiberboot, hybrid boot, or hybrid shutdown, is part of Windows 10 that helps your computer start quicker after shutdown. Fast startup is on by default in Windows 10.
How to Clean Up the WinSxS folder (Component Store) in Windows 10 & 11In the Windows folder, you might have noticed a WinSxS folder that is taking up a lot of space, often over 7GB. Here's all you need to know about the WinSxS folder.
How to Import or Export a Power Plan in Windows 10Windows 10 has a few power plans available, including Balanced, Power Saver, and High Performance. In addition, there are numerous settings available specific to hard drives, web browsers, desktop backgrounds, Wi-Fi, Sleep, and many more. If you've spent some time customizing the perfect power plan, you might want to back your Power Plan. Here's how.
How to Reset and Repair Windows Spotlight in Windows 10If Windows Spotlight is causing you problems, including showing the same image or not working at all, here's an easy fix. For those who aren't aware, Windows Spotlight can display different images every day and offer suggestions from the lock menu.
How to Upgrade From Windows 7 or 8 to Windows 10 for FreeWindows 7 to Windows 10 Silent Upgrade PowerShell Script is a free PowerShell script that should allow anyone to upgrade Windows 7 to Windows 10 for free silently. In this guide, plus video, we walk you through the steps and what to expect with known problems.
How to Add All Tasks or God Mode to the Control PanelUsing some registry files, we can add All Tasks, or God Mode, to your Control Panel for quick access.
Windows 10 Instant Results Live Search Removed - What You Can DoWindows 10 changed the way Live Search works in December of 2019. Previously, you could search with File Explorer and see live results and click on a file as it appears. Live Search has been removed, so when you click on a file now, the image will open.
How to Edit Your HOSTS File to Block Websites in Windows 10When you go to a website, you type in a website name, which is automatically resolved to the site's IP address and loaded. After all, remembering a long series of numbers and periods is a lot harder than remembering Google.com. Knowing this, you can block access to any website by modifying your HOSTS file.
Allow or Deny Website Notifications in Google ChromeMost websites, MajorGeeks included, offer to show notifications. Often these notifications will occasionally popup a deal or an article of interest. In this tutorial, we show you how to change your choice later in Google Chrome.
Microsoft Patch Tuesday ExplainedMost of us know about Windows Updates, but you might have heard the term "Patch Tuesday" and wondered what Patch Tuesday is all about.
How to Stay Safe With Windows 7 After End of SupportWindows 7 end of life (or end of support) arrives on January 14, 2020. In this article, we cover a wide range of topics, including what to expect, how to protect yourself, and what options you have going forward.
Allow or Deny App Access to Documents, Pictures, and Video Folders in Windows 10Windows 10 allows you the option to allow apps access to your Pictures, Documents, and Video folders in Windows 10. You can manage these settings from your Privacy options.
How to Add or Remove 'Accounts Settings' Context Menu in Windows 10If you have several Windows 10 user accounts or want quick access to your Microsoft Windows 10 Account Settings, here's a way to add Account Settings to your Desktop Context Menu (right-click).
How to View Full Details of Any User Accounts in WindowsIn this tutorial, we'll show you how to see all the details of a user account, including (alphabetically) AccountType, Description, Disabled, Domain, FullName, InstallDate, Lockout, LocalAccount, Name, PasswordChangeable, PasswordExpires, PasswordRequired, SID, SIDType, and Status.
How to Add or Remove the OneDrive Shortcut in File ExplorerWindows 10 features OneDrive to back up your files to the cloud. OneDrive comes with 5GB free, and plans are available starting at 10GB for $1.99 month. If you don't use OneDrive, you might find the shortcut ion File Explorer annoying. In this tutorial, we show you how to remove the OneDrive icon from File Explorer and, of course, how to uninstall OneDrive.
Add or Remove the Classic Personalize Context MenuWhen you right-click on your Desktop, Windows 10 now goes directly to Settings. If you miss the option to jump directly to some of the classic personalization settings, it's easy enough to do.
How to Re-Register the Windows 10 Start MenuIf your Windows 10 Start Menu isn't working correctly or seems sluggish, you can reregister the Start Menu following these simple steps.
Firewall & Network Protection in Windows 10 & 11 Explained and How to Hide ItFirewall & network protection is one of seven different subsections of Windows Security that helps you to protect your devices. In this tutorial, we'll explain Firewall & network protection and even show you how to hide it from view.
How to Enable Password Leak Detection in Google ChromePassword Leak Detection is now an official feature of Google Chrome. Password Leak Detection works by checking the websites you visit and checks if your password was compromised as part of a data breach.
How to Mirror Your iPhone or iPad to Your PCThere are many Android, iPhone, and iPad users out there, and many of us also use a PC. Recently, we found the need to mirror a workout app to our screen so we could see it better. Here's what we found.
How to Turn On or Off 'Notify me if my PC Charging Slowly over USB' NotificationWindows 10 will notify you if you're PC is charging slowly. If you're aware of a problem, like using a third-party charger, or failing batteries, you can disable this notification in Settings or the Registry.
How to Disable Clipboard History in Windows 10Windows 10 includes a clipboard history feature that can store your clipboard history, which you can see at any time using the Windows Key + V. Also, you can sync your clipboard history across devices. Here's how to disable this feature.
How to Uninstall Suggested Apps and Ads in Windows 10 SettingsBecause you don't see enough suggested apps (ads) in Windows 10, you might notice "Suggested apps" appears in your Settings menu. Here's how to disable the Settings advertisements.
How to Disable the Windows 10 & 11 Welcome Experience PageWhen you create a new account, or at random intervals, Windows 10 Welcome page may make suggestions. On the first run, Microsoft might suggest you login to your account, try Office 365, setup Microsoft Edge, and more. Here's how to disable the Welcome Experience.
How to Disable Tips, Tricks, and SuggestionsWindows 10 can display advertising on your Desktop, usually as notifications in your Taskbar. They often appear as "Toast" notifications suggesting you try Microsoft Edge, for example. Here's how to disable them.
How to Disable App Suggestions and Advertising in the Start MenuThe Start Menu can often suggest apps or games from the Microsoft Store. You can spot them with the words Suggested and frankly, they don't seem to get the suggestions right, especially if you've already made some privacy tweaks yourself.
How to Disable Featured or Suggested Apps from Automatically Installing on Windows 10Windows 10 installs promoted apps, whether you like it or not. Some of these apps include Candy Crush, Minecraft, Twitter, NetFlix, Pandora, FarmVille2, and more. They are annoying and obtrusive. Not any more.
How to Disable Notifications in File Explorer in Windows 10Windows 10 now shows notifications about changes to Windows 10 inside File Explorer, often following a Windows Update. Here's how you can disable these notifications.
How to Disable All Advertising and Sponsored Apps in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 offers suggested programs and advertising that can be annoying and time-consuming to remove, but in this guide, we simplify the process for you.
How to Remove 'Send to' in Google ChromeGoogle Chrome offers the option to Send to when you right-click on any web content. Here's how to disable that option.
How to Add 'Open With Notepad' Context MenuAdd Open With Notepad Context Menu gives you the option of opening any file type with Microsoft Notepad in the Context Menu by right-clicking on any file and then clicking on Open With Notepad. Anyone who has used Notepad is familiar with the minor frustration of needing to select All Files to open any file that isn't a text file in Notepad. This simple Registry hack allows you to open any file type in Notepad by simply right-clicking on it. You can edit the registry yourself or download the registry files - https://www.majorgeeks.com/files...
How to Backup and Restore the Start Menu in Windows 10The Windows 10 Start Menu has numerous options to suit everyone's needs, including folders, Tiles, Groups, sizes, removed items, and much more. If you've spent a lot of time getting your Start Menu just right, here's an undocumented method to back up your Start Menu.
Enable or Disable Taskbar Transparency in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 users who like a clean, uncluttered Desktop might appreciate the ability to make their Taskbar transparent. There currently are no settings to change how transparent the Taskbar is, but it's still a cool option.
How to Fix Missing Game Mode in Windows 10If your Windows 10 Game Mode is not working or even missing, here are the steps you can take to get Game Mode up and running.
How to Create Screen Snip Shortcut in Windows 10 & 11If you have Screen Snip in Windows 10, Build 17661, or later you can now use a shortcut to take and share a screenshot quickly.
How to Disable or Enable SysMain (Superfetch)Superfetch or SysMain, as it's now called, is a Windows service that can speed up boot time, load programs faster. If you need to disable Superfetch or SysMain, here are your available options.
How to Customize Your Desktop IconsIf there's one thing we know, everyone likes their computer set up a certain way. One example is the Desktop and how one arranges their icons or shortcuts. Windows has allowed numerous ways to display your Desktop icons for as long as we can remember. Here's how.
How to Format and Partition a Drive With PowerShellWhile you can use File Explorer to format a drive in Windows, you can also use PowerShell if you're having issues with File Explorer or Windows Explorer.
How to Download Windows 10 & 11 Enterprise ISO With Windows Media Creation ToolMany of us have used the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool to download the latest ISO Windows 10 Home and Pro editions, but using this trick, you can also download the latest Enterprise Edition, assuming you have a valid product key.
How to Reset or Reinstall Windows 10 & 11 Using the Cloud (Step-by-Step)Beginning with Windows 10 Build 1909, you can now use Reset This PC by downloading a new image from the cloud, saving you the trouble of downloading the Windows 10 ISO should that be needed.
How To Enable Adobe Flash In Google Chrome and Microsoft EdgeMost websites have abandoned Adobe Flash because of the many security risks involved. While that's a good thing, there may be times where you need to enable Flash for a website to work correctly.
How to Download the Latest Windows 10 & 11 ISO Images Directly in Microsoft EdgeMicrosoft updates its downloadable ISO images of Windows 10 for every major update. You can download these using the Media Creation Tool. However, here's a neat hack to download the latest ISO images directly using the Chromium-based Microsoft Edge.
You'll Need a New App to Open This MS-Gamingoverlay LinkWhen pressing Win+G to open Game Mode, you might receive an error that reads You'll need a new app to open this ms-gamingoverlay link. Here's how to fix that issue.
How to Remove Options From the CTRL+ALT+DEL ScreenCTRL+ALT+DEL opens a screen that allows you to log off, open Task Manager, and more. System administrators might be glad to know that we can remove some of the available options when a user presses CTRL+ALT+DEL.
How to Turn On or Off Game Mode in Windows 10 & 11Beginning with Windows 10 build 15019, Game Mode is now available. With Game Mode on, Windows Update won't update your drivers or send restart notifications. Also, all supported games can achieve better and more stable framerates.
How to How to See the Startup Impact of Apps in WindowsIf you're wondering what is taking your computer so long to boot, you might consider looking at the Startup impact of startup apps. Here's how.
Chromium Microsoft Edge - Stop Asking Where to Save Downloads and Change Download LocationBy default, the Chromium-based Microsoft Edge will save downloads to the Downloads folder and ask you where to save a file every time. In this guide, we show you how to change the default download folder and how to stop Edge from asking you where to save every time.
Windows 10 Home Versus Windows 10 ProWindows 10 comes in two primary versions - Windows 10 Home and Windows 10 Pro. One would correctly assume that Home is for home users, and Pro is for business. But what are the real differences? Here are all the features available and what Windows 10 Pro has that Windows 10 Home lacks.
How to Disable Chromium Microsoft Edge From Running in The BackgroundThe Chromium-based Microsoft Edge can pre-load in the background by default on Windows startup, when the system is idle, and even after you close Edge. Here's how to free up some resources and disable this behavior.
How to Disable 'Could Not Reconnect All Network Drives' Notification in Windows 10Windows 10 has a habit of showing an error message that states that it can't reconnect all network drives when all you have to do is click on This PC to reconnect the drive. In this guide, we show you how to disable this annoying error message.
How to Tell the Difference Between a Virus and a False PositiveAs a website that offers tested, safe downloads, it's not all that uncommon for someone to claim a file contains a virus. So, how do you know if a file contains a virus or if it's just a false positive? And, what is a false positive?
Windows Update Is Missing in Windows 10 SettingsSome people have reported that Windows 10 is missing the Windows Updates option after updating Windows 10. Another possible symptom is that Windows Defender is listed at the top of Update & Security in Settings.
How to Enable or Disable Mouse Pointer TrailsWindows offers many options to make your mouse work just the way you want. Some of the many options include speed, swapping buttons, changing pointers, adjusting how the wheel scrolls, and more. Today we're going to enable mouse pointer trails, which makes it easier to follow your mouse cursor.
How to Identify Your Intel Processor and GenerationIf you're shopping for a new computer, you might be surprised to find out that the latest computers might have the same processor you've had for years. Back in 2008, Intel introduced "Generations," meaning your chipset model name (i3, i5, i7) remained the same, while the Generation is updated almost yearly. Here's how that works and how to identify your Intel chipset.
Your Virus & Threat Protection Is Managed by Your OrganizationWhen opening Windows Security and Windows Defender, you may come across an error that reads, "Your Virus & threat protection is managed by your organization."
How to Protect Files and Folders from Being DeletedA common problem in Windows is accidentally deleting files and folders. In this guide, we show you how you can protect your files or folders from being deleted.
How to Add a Trusted Site in Windows 10f you're having trouble with the functionality of a website, you can add the website as a trusted site.
Windows Device Performance & Health ExplainedWindows Defender is part of Windows Security to help manage your computer and security. You can find anything from scanning your computer to resetting your PC. One such section is called Device Performance & Health.
How to Change Your User And Account Names in Windows 10If you need or want to change your Windows computer User name or Account name, it can be relatively simple. Here's how.
Can't Create a New Folder in WindowsIf you are trying to create a new folder in Windows and can't, here are some possible solutions.
Was Windows 10 Last Boot Fast Startup, Full Shutdown, or Hibernate?Windows 10 has three possible startup options; Full Shutdown, Fast Startup, or Hibernate. In this guide, we show you how to see which startup was used last.
How to Clear the Microsoft Windows Store Cache in Windows 10If you're having problems with the Windows Store, resetting or clearing the Store cache can solve some Windows Store issues, and it's easy to do.
How to Add 'Allow Sleep with Remote Opens' Power Setting"Allow Sleep with Remote Opens" is a hidden power setting in Windows Vista, 7, 8, and 10. Those using computers on a network will find this hidden setting useful because it prevents the networked computer from automatically entering sleep mode whenever remote network files are open.
How to Get More Google Search Results per PageIf you've ever been frustrated by not getting enough Google search results per page, we have the solution.
How to install Disney+ As a Windows AppAt the time of this article, Disney+ is currently not available as a Windows 10 app. While it is available in various places, including Xbox, there is a way to install Disney+ as a Windows app.
The Best Drivers for Your Device Are Already InstalledWhen trying to update a driver in Device Manager, you might be told that "the best drivers for your device are already installed," but you know you need an updated driver.
USB Port Remains Active After Using Safely Remove HardwareIf you properly remove a USB device but find that the port is still active, even receiving USB packets and consuming power, then we can fix this from happening with a registry edit.
Microsoft Store Install Button Grayed OutIf you visit the Microsoft Store to download apps or games but find the install button us grayed out and you can't click on it, here are the steps you can try, gathered from the Microsoft Community.
How to Enable Windows Sandbox in Windows 10 HomeWindows 10 Home is missing a couple of essential features, including Group Policy Editor and Windows Sandbox, which allows you to run programs isolated safely. In this guide, we have a workaround that will enable you to run Windows Sandbox in Windows 10 Home Editon.
How to Disable Start Menu Auto Expand On Mouse Over in Windows 10Starting with Windows 10 build 1909, the Start Menu has some changes in store for you. One difference is that mousing over any icons on the left column will auto-expand. If you don't like this new feature, here's how to disable it.
Windows Cannot Find C:\Windows\regedit.exeIf you receive and error on Windows startup or when trying to run the Registry Editor that says Windows cannot find C:/Windows/regedit.exe, here are the steps you can take to resolve this error.
How to View and Reset Network Data Usage in Windows 10Windows 10 includes a feature to view your network data usage by individual network connections or applications. In this guide, we'll show you how to use this feature.
How to Delete Downloaded Netflix Offline ContentDid you know Netflix stores content on your hard drive that can, over time, take up a lot of hard drive space? In this guide, we show you how to delete that content and free up space.
How to Fix Oculus Rift Stuck on Three Dots LoadingRecently, we bumped into the three dots loading screen in our Oculus Rift S headset. Here's how we fixed the problem.
How to Fix 'Oculus Rift Continue Setup in VR' Black ScreenRecently, after setting up a Rift S and playing for an hour, we came back to an error that states, "Continue Setup in VR," followed by "Move to the center of your play area. Put on your headset and follow the instructions you see in VR." The problem is that the Rift was a black screen, and we couldn't continue setup.
How to Stop File Explorer From Showing External Drives TwiceA frustrating bug happens when you plug in an external drive, and the drive appears twice in File Explorer. A reader recently asked us about fixing this problem, and here are the steps you can take to stop seeing your external drives twice.
How to Turn Facebook Top Fan Badges on or off Facebook Top Fan Badges allow you to stand out and be recognized as a top fan of a page you like and frequently interact with. In this article, we show you how to turn on, or off, Facebook Top Fan Badges.
Bad Module Info Has Stopped WorkingBad_Module_Info has stopped working is an error that can appear when launching or playing games, often due to low resources. The error is known to appear in many games, including the popular Fortnite, Minecraft, PUBG, and Counter-Strike.
How to Disable the Registry Editor (Regedit) in WindowsThe Windows registry is a powerful tool but one that can easily break or crash Windows if you don't know what you're doing. In some cases, you might want to disable the Registry Editor. Here's how.
How to Disable the Command Prompt (and CMD and BAT) in Windows 10 & 11PowerShell has almost entirely replaced the Command Prompt in Windows 10, and in some cases, many PowerShell Commands won't work at all. If you like, you can disable the Command Prompt from running on Windows 10 in a couple of different ways.
Application Stays Minimized in the TaskbarWe've seen a problem where some applications will automatically minimize to the Taskbar, and clicking the icon in the taskbar does not maximize the window as expected. Here are some steps to try to resolve the problem.
How to Disable the Run Dialog in Windows 10 & 11Windows had had the run dialog for many years, did you know that Windows 10 allows you to disable the Run dialog if you have a reason to stop people from using it? Here's how.
Windows 10 Doesn't Connect to Wi-Fi on StartupOnce you've made a Wi-Fi connection with your Desktop or Laptop, you expect that the connection will be made every time Windows starts, and it should. If not, here are some troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve the problem.
3 Ways to Log off Another User in Windows 10If you need to log a User out of your computer, you can do so using PowerShell, the Command Prompt, or the Task Manager. Here's how.
Windows Could Not Start the Diagnostic Policy ServiceDiagnostic Policy Service enables diagnostics, troubleshooting, and repairs for problems found in Windows 10. Should receive the error "Windows could not start the Diagnostic Policy Service," then you might not be aware of or be able to resolve any problems that arise.
How to Update Your Intel Wireless Wi-Fi DriversThe Intel PROSet/Wireless WiFi Software are the latest drivers for most Intel wireless cards, including Centrino, Dual Band, Tri-Band, and more. These drivers don't have an installer, but they are easy to install by following this guide and video.
How to Find Your MAC Address in WindowsEvery network card, whether wireless or wired, has a unique 12-digit MAC (Media Access Control). MAC addresses are linked to the hardware of a network adapter, and IP addresses are associated with software known as TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol or Internet Protocol).
How to Change Windows Defender Scheduled Scan TypeWindows Defender has come a long way to replace expensive, shareware, or even or PUP (Potentially Unwanted Programs) ridden antivirus programs, but like any other app, it's not perfect. For example, look at how much effort is required to install Avast without the bloat.
How to Block Political Posts on TwitterLike all social media platforms, Twitter can have plenty of political posts. If you're anything like us, we don't have an interest in seeing these. You can also block any Tweet by muting words. Here's how.
How to Restore The Downloads Folder View in Windows 10Windows 10 has made some changes to the download folder by categorizing files by date. Some people prefer the old view, and it's easy to get it back. Here's how.
How to Enable Dark Mode for All Sites in Microsoft EdgeLots of people prefer a dark mode for their computers, and starting with Microsoft Edge version 80.0.318.0, you can now enable dark mode for all websites.
How to Add, Edit or Change OEM Information in Windows 10If you look in your computers About section in Settings, you might see your manufacturer details, including the manufacturer's name, website, logo, and more. If you clean installed Windows, you can still add anything you like. In this guide, we show you how to change, remove, or add these details.
How to Edit or Change Your Phone Number in Google ChromeRecently, someone asked us how to change your phone number in Google Chrome. While managing your addresses and payment info is more straightforward, changing your phone number requires you to log into your Google account or Gmail.
How to Delete Autofill Entries from Google ChromeAutofill in Google Chrome can automatically fill forms by remembering what usernames, passwords, addresses, and other information was used to fill forms. Over time, you can accumulate thousands of these, and deleting them might be great for security or even speed up Chrome a little.
How to Create a Shortcut to Windows File HistoryIf you didn't know, File History can copy and restore personal files, exclude folders, and even save copies of files on a schedule. Finally, you can add or discover network drives for their file history. In this guide, we show you how to create a shortcut to File History.
How to Open the Control Panel Instead of Settings on Windows 10Today's quick tip is how to get the classic Control Panel on Windows 10 and 8. If there are times you prefer, or miss, Control Panel, it's still available to you.
Should You Try and Fix Your Own Computer?We've been able to help people with their computer problems since 2001 with downloads that help you diagnose issues, how-tos, and even a support forum. If you've ever considered trying to fix your own computer, here's our advice.
How to Change Windows Defender Max CPU UsageWindows Defender has come a long way, now becoming the default antivirus program for most geeks. That doesn't mean you can't make some tweaks, however. One tweak we love to apply is limiting the maximum amount of CPU used during scans.
How to Add, Remove, or Modify Your Vehicle on AmazonAmazon has a Garage feature allowing you to enter what type of vehicle you own to be sure any parts you are shopping for are compatible with your vehicle. If you change or add vehicles, you also need to update your Garage. Here's how.
How to Delete or Restore Windows Power PlansWindows offers four preset power plans to simplify your needs; Power Saver, Balanced, High Performance, or Ultimate Performance. Truth be told, you can manually edit almost any power plan to your liking, but if you prefer to use a default power plan that's missing, here's how to make sure all available power plans are available to you.
How to Delete a User Profile or Account in Windows 10There may come a time when you need to remove a user profile from your computer. While this can be stressful, it's not as difficult as you might think. Here's all you need to know.
How to Disable Screen Savers on Windows 10 & 11Screen savers were created primarily to prevent burn-in on CRT monitors. Today, they serve no purpose except for the personal enjoyment factor. If you'd like to disable screen savers on your computer, we can edit the registry or download registry files.
What Is the $Windows.~WS Folder and Can I Delete It?The $WINDOWS.~WS is a hidden folder created by a Windows Upgrade, typically done with Windows Updates. Other folders may appear, including $GetCurrent, $WINDOWS.~BT, and $SysReset. The folders are hidden, and you can check for them by clicking View > Hidden items in File Explorer.
How to Permanently Delete Your Instagram AccountInstagram currently does not provide a way to delete your account in your Instagram app or desktop settings. Instead, you can disable your account temporarily once a week. If you're sure you want to delete your Instagram account, here's what you need to do.
How to Disable 'These Files Might Be Harmful to Your Computer'These files might be harmful to your computer is a popup warning that can appear when doing something as simple as moving files from one drive to another, especially when you've connected a mapped network drive to a local drive. Here's how to stop seeing this warning.
Critical Process Died ErrorIn this article, we're going to look at possible solutions to the Blue Screen (BSOD) error Critical Process Died. You might also receive an error code 0x000000EF. We're not going to lie, this is one difficult error to troubleshoot but here are the steps we think might help.
What Is The WDAGUtilityAccount?When using the net user command or looking at users in Computer Management on Windows 10, you might notice an account named WDAGUtilityAccount and wondered if your computer was compromised. Here's what you need to know about the WDAGUtilityAccount.
How to Update and Find Your Windows Experience Index ScoreThe Windows Experience Index is a simple, generic way to find out how your computer performs on a scale of 1.0 - 9.9, with 9.9 being the best possible score. WEI is much more useful for finding bottlenecks. A low score in specific categories points out where there's a performance problem. If you're wondering how your computer stacks up, then you'll want to run the Windows Experience Index or WEI.
How to Fix Copy and Paste Not WorkingThe Copy and Paste feature of Windows is very popular. You can right-click to copy and right-click again to paste, or you can use CTRL + C to copy and CTRL + V to paste. But, what can you do if copy and paste aren't working? Try these steps to resolve the problems.
How to Identify the Hardware in Your ComputerAt some point, you might need to identify the hardware on your Windows desktop or laptop. You might need to know what graphics or sound card you have, what type of motherboard, and more. There are a few ways you can identify all of your hardware in minutes.
What Is the $Windows.~BT Folder and Can I Delete It?The $WINDOWS.~BT is a hidden folder created by a Windows Upgrade, typically done with Windows Updates. Other folders may appear including $GetCurrent, $WINDOWS.~BT, $SysReset. The folders are hidden, and you can check for them by clicking View > Hidden items in File Explorer.
How to Run, Use, and Reset WordPad in Windows 10Windows 10 comes with two programs to edit most documents - Notepad and WordPad. Notepad allows you to view and edit text documents, while Wordpad will enable you to open and edit other documents, including RTF, DOCX, ODT, TXT. Her is some information on how to run, use, and reset Microsoft Word.
How to Show Your Internet Upload, Download, and Usage on the TaskbarAt times, monitoring internet speeds can be useful in diagnosing internet problems or monitoring bandwidth use on a daily or monthly basis. Windows cannot display your internet speeds on the taskbar, but we can accomplish this with NetSpeedMonitor.
How to Keep Windows Calculator Always on TopMicrosoft has added a requested option in Windows 10 Calculator to keep the calculator on top of all applications in addition to the standard full-screen view.
Enable or Disable the Windows Update Status Taskbar NotificationWindows 10 will show you a Taskbar icon when a Windows Update is ready to install. There are a few ways to disable the Taskbar icon, assuming you're aware of the importance of Windows Updates.
How to Add File Hash to the Context MenuAdd File Hash Context Menu allows those who frequently download a right-click Context Menu to verify the HASH values of any file quickly. You can calculate SHA1, SHA256, SHA384, SHA512, MACTripleDES, MD5, and RIPEMD160 hash values.
Fix: The RPC Server is UnavailableThe Remote Procedure Call, or RPC, is something you might not have heard of, or even aware was running on your Windows computer. RPC allows client and server software to communicate on a network. Numerous application makes use of RPC, and when there's a problem, you most likely receive the "The RPC Server is Unavailable" error.
Fix: OneDrive Error Code 0x8004def7 (And Other Errors)Recently we received an error message 0x8004def7 when starting Windows 10. Microsoft claims that this particular error means that we have exceeded our OneDrive storage capacity or our account has been suspended. Because we never logged in, nor have an account, we know that the solution isn't always that simple.
Enable or Disable the Recycle Bin Delete Confirmation BoxPower users would prefer that some prompts don't exist. One such situation is the Recycle Bin prompt that asks if you're sure you want to delete the files or folders when you want to delete the files in the Recycle Bin. There currently is only one solution to the problem.
How to Fix a DCP Watchdog ViolationA DCP Watchdog Violation is a Windows error that can often be traced back to a few potential problems being as simple as a driver issue to as bad as a failing hard drive. Try these steps to resolve this annoying "Blue Screen of Death."
How to Restore a Missing F8 Boot OptionWe're starting to see people who find that using F8 to access Safe Mode has disappeared. We're not sure if Microsoft is testing the removal, or if it's a mistake. Regardless, if F8 isn't working for you, we can edit the registry to make sure that F8 works. For other issues accessing Safe Mode, see How to Boot into Safe Mode.
Hid-Compliant Touch Screen Driver Is Missing In this article, we're looking at a problem where the HID-Compliant Touch Screen Driver is missing and no longer available in Device Manager. Also, you might see numerous devices installed by the same name, known as ghost devices.
How to Enable or Disable Disk Write CachingDisk Write Caching uses your system memory to cache write commands sent to your storage devices. Write caching allows the program to run faster by not waiting for the slower drive. Most hard and removable drives have write caching on by default, but here's how to enable or disable write caching.
How to Exclude an App in Exploit ProtectionExploit Protection is part of Windows Defender that protects against exploits that are designed to infect devices and spread. While Exploit Protection is a good thing, there may come a time you need to whitelist a game. Some gamers have reported lag due to Exploit Protection and a particular game, for example.
How to Dispose of That Old ComputerRecently, we were asked how to dispose of an old computer, laptop, or parts. So, let's look at how you can protect yourself by deleting your hard drive data, then disposing of that old computer safely, legally, and without harming the environment.
25 Hidden Google Games You Can Play Right NowGoogle has always had some excellent hidden games, or Google Doodles, built into its search engine if you know where to find them. Here are our favorite games we think you'll enjoy updated asneeded.
How to Upgrade to Windows 10 for Free in 2021When Windows 10 was released, upgrading was free for all Windows users. As time progresses, there are fewer ways to upgrade for free. Because Microsoft wants to show Windows 10 was a success, and they want everyone off the expiring Windows 7, there remain a few possibilities to upgrade to Windows 10 for free.
How to Fix Windows Update Error Code 0x80070002Another Windows Update error appears as 0x80070002. The message states that "There were some problems installing updates, but we'll try again later. If you keep seeing this and want to search the web or contact support for information, this may help: (0x80070002).
How to Fix Boot Device Not Found ErrorBoot Device Not Found Error often has you staring at a blank screen unaware of how to get Windows to start. Additional information may state, "Please install an operating system on your hard disk" and "F2 Diagnostics." Try the following steps to find the problem.
Create a Windows 10 Bootable USB Flash Drive With Windows 10 Media Creation ToolIf you need to install or update Windows 10, Microsoft provides the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool to download and burn a Windows 10 ISO to a USB drive or DVD.
Windows Could Not Configure One or More System ComponentsWhile installing or upgrading Windows 10, you might encounter an error message that states, "Windows could not configure one or more system components." In some cases, the error may state, "To install windows restart the computer with error code 0xc1900101-0x30018." Try these steps to resolve this error.
Open Powershell Window Here as Administrator Context MenuPowerShell users might find it useful to add Open Powershell Window Here to their Context Menu for quick access. Using PowerShell (go figure) this is easy to accomplish.
Change the Default Save Location for New Apps and FilesWindows 10 has default locations where new apps, documents, music, photos and videos, movies and TV, and even offline maps are saved. Here's how to change those default locations.
How to Delete and Rebuild the Windows 10 & 11 Search IndexWindows 10 keeps an index of all your searches so that you can get the fastest search results. If you find that you're getting slow, missing, or incorrect results than it might be time to delete and rebuild your search index.
How to Turn On or Off Require Sign-in on Wakeup in Windows 10For security, Windows 10 will ask for your password when resuming from Sleep or Hibernate. You can find the settings to disable required sign-in by trying these ideas.
How to Show or Hide the File Explorer Status Bar in Windows 10The Windows 10 File Explorer is one of the most used Windows apps by many and comes with numerous options to customize it exactly as you wish. One such setting is the ability to hide or show the status bar. Here's how.
Enable or Disable Autocorrect, Text Suggestions, and HighlightingWindows 10 has the ability to highlight and autocorrect misspelled words as well as show text suggestions while you type on a hardware keyboard. Here's where to find the settings for these three.
How to Turn Public Folder Sharing on or OffPublic Folder sharing is turned off by default, but perhaps you now need to share folders on your network, or you shared folders in the past and forgot how to turn it back off. Either way, we have you covered.
How to Reset Your Hosts File to DefaultIf you're having problems with a modified HOSTS file, possibly from malware or a third-party app has changed it, then here's how to restore your HOSTS file to default.
There Is Insufficient Disk Space to Complete Operation"Error Copying File or Folder – There is insufficient disk space to complete operation" is an error that happens typically when copying files or folders and can occur for several reasons. Here are the steps you can try.
How to Manually Remove Program Entries from the Apps & Features ListThere may come a time when you find that you've uninstalled a program in Apps & Features (Windows 10) or AddRemove Programs (Windows XP, 7, Vista, 8) but the entry is still there. This problem happens when a registry entry wasn't correctly removed during the uninstall.
How to Uninstall Programs Not Listed in Control PanelAt some time, we all want to remove a program and discover that there's no entry in the Add and Remove Programs or Apps & Features on Windows 10. In this situation, you lack an easy way to uninstall an application. Don't worry; there are a few ways to get around this problem.
Force Users to Change Account Password at Next LoginIn an era of insecure and rarely changed passwords, it's a good idea sometimes to force users to change their passwords.
Display Driver Failed to StartOccasionally when running a graphic intensive program, you might receive an error that reads "Display driver failed to start; using Microsoft Basic Display Driver instead. Check Windows Update for a newer display driver." Here are the steps to resolve this error.
How to Disable or Enable Taskbar Thumbnail Cache in Windows 10As you know, Windows 10 will show you a preview of a running app when you hover over that app in the Taskbar. Windows keeps a cache to speed up this preview. That cache can sometimes become corrupted, so the preview either does not work or shows correctly. Here's how to enable, disable, or clear taskbar thumbnail cache.
Block or Unblock Potentially Unwanted Apps Protection in Microsoft EdgeThe Chromium-based Microsoft Edge continues to improve and see new features added. One such feature you may appreciate is the ability to block or unblock Potentially Unwanted Apps or PUPs.
How to Fix Blue Screen Error 0x000000c2Blue screen error 0x000000C2 is an error that will crash your computer on Windows 10, 8, and 7. Try these steps to get up and running again.
How to Split Your Screen in Windows 10 & 11With larger screens becoming more and more affordable, using a split-screen can be useful, and easy to do in Windows 10.
How to Find the IP Address of a Wi-Fi Printer in Windows 10 & 11Printers have gone wireless, and because of this, there may come a time you need to know the IP address of a printer. Here's all you need to know.
How to Use the Microsoft Support Diagnostic Tool & System Diagnostic ReportMicrosoft has always provided a Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter, until now. After Windows 10 build 1809, the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter has been removed, but can still be used. Similarly, you can also try the System Diagnostic Report, another easy to use utility that can spot problems with your computer.
How to Run Disk Cleanup Automatically with All Items CheckedWhile most of us have a personal choice of a favorite drive cleaner, there are times when running the Windows 10 Disk Cleaner can be useful. But, what if I told you that you could run Disk CLeaner from a shortcut with everything already checked?
How to View and Block Recently Updated Windows DriversWindows 10 can update your drivers for you, and frankly, they tend to run months behind. In this article, we show you how to see the latest drivers installed by Windows and while we're at it, how to disable Windows driver updates.
What Is the Update Orchestrator Service (UsoSvc)?One service you may not recognize is the Update Orchestrator Service (UsoSvc). UsoSvc is critical to Windows downloading the latest Windows Updates.
How to Secure Your Facebook AccountFacebook accounts being hacked, or taken over is a problem more common than it should be. In this guide, we look at how you can secure your account before it's too late.
The Default Gateway Is Not AvailableIf, while running the Microsoft Internet Connections troubleshooter, you receive an error that states "The Default Gateway Is Not Available" then try running these steps to resolve the issue.
How to Manage Windows Defender Antivirus Found ThreatsWhen downloading files, you may see a warning from your web browser and Windows Defender that states Threats found. Windows Defender Antivirus found threats. In this guide, we look at how to allow and manage any threats found with Windows Security and Windows Defender.
There Is a System Repair Pending Which Requires Reboot to CompleteWhen you run System File Checker (SFC), you may come across an error that says "There is a system repair pending which requires a reboot to complete," Restart Windows and run SFC again. Try these steps to resolve this error.
Is XVideos Safe?XVideos started around 2007, as many of the other popular adult websites. Xvideos is owned by a Czech company who also owns Bang Bros, Penthouse magazine and all its assets. But, is XVideos safe to use?
Is YouPorn Safe?YouPorn was founded in 2006 and was the most popular free pornographic website at the time. Nowadays, YouPorn is a top 200 website and usually ranks as one of the top 10 adult websites gobbling up over 950 terabytes of bandwidth a day. They were purchased in 2011 by MindGeek, who owns quite a few pornographic websites, including the more popular PornHub. But, is YouPorn safe to use?
Windows 10 Start Menu Corrupted - Tile Database Is CorruptThe Windows Start Menu is something we all use daily, and occasionally problems arise. One particular error is "Windows 10 Start Menu Corrupted - Tile Database Is Corrupt." Here are the steps you can take to repair your Start Menu.
How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80092004Windows Update error 0x80092004 is yet another Windows Update problem that should be easy enough to fix. At the time of this guide, not having Windows Update kb4474419 on Windows 7 and Server 2008 installed was the problem, but there are numerous other possibilities should this error return later.
Is PornHub Safe to Use in 2025? Here's What You Should KnowPornHub is the largest adult website online founded in 2007 out of Canada with offices or servers located in San Francisco, Houston, New Orleans, and London. They were purchased in 2010 by MindGeek, who owns quite a few pornographic websites. But, is PornHub safe to use?
Windows Forgets Folder View SettingsWindows forgetting folder view settings is a recurring problem that no one can explain, and Microsoft has yet to solve. Odds are it's program related or accidentally pressing a keyboard shortcut at the wrong time. Another possibility that's a well-known problem is a limit on how many folder view settings are allowed by default. Here are some steps you can take to restore your folder view.
How to Contact or Get Help From Microsoft SupportContacting Microsoft Support can be frustrating and challenging, explaining why sites like MajorGeeks exist. There may come a time that you have no choice but to contact Microsoft Support. In this article, we give you all the information you need to contact them.
How to Install or Uninstall Fonts in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 comes with quite a few pre-installed fonts, and in this guide, we show you how easy it can be to install or uninstall fonts.
Windows 10 Goes to Sleep Earlye've seen a problem with Windows 10 computers going to sleep too early. In some cases, the computer locks up and has to be rebooted. Here are a few known fixes for your problem.
3 Ways to Restart File Explorer Without RebootingThere are times you need to restart File Explorer because it can freeze and additional problems, including a missing taskbar, volume control, and other issues can occur. Here are three ways to restart File Explorer.
How to Fix the User Name or Password Is Incorrect"The user name or password is incorrect" is an error that appears at the login screen. While this error can show up in certain situations, it most frequently appears after a Windows Update because “Use my sign-in info to automatically finish setting up my device after an update or restart” is enabled.
How to Delete Your YouTube Watch and Search HistoryYouTube has an algorithm to decide what you see based on your watch and search history. YouTube has been around since 2005, so there's a good chance your interests have changed, and many recommended videos aren't your taste anymore. One way to try and improve your recommendations would be to delete your watch and search history.
How to Fix 'Another Computer Is Using the Printer'In a situation where multiple computers use the same printer, you might run into an error message that states, "Another computer is using the printer." The error message means that one computer is either using the printer or most likely that Windows didn't end the task and thinks that the printer is in use. Here are the steps you can take.
How to Permanently Delete Your Yahoo Email AccountLike many companies, Yahoo! suffered a data breach allowing hackers to access personal information. Security-conscious people will want to make sure their account and data are permanently deleted. Here's how.
How to Fix Windows 10 Stuck in Airplane ModeSome Windows users have reported that Airplane Mode in Windows 10 is turned on and they are unable to turn it back off. Of course, this means there's no internet. Here are the steps you can try to turn Airplane mode off.
Programs to View, Validate, and Edit CIF FilesA reader asked us about programs to open CIF files. We admit this is one of those times we were stumped because we hadn't heard of a CIF file, but you learn something new every day.
How to Speed up the Windows 10 Start MenuThe Windows 10 Start Menu is an area that everyone customizes because there are so many possibilities. If you find your Start Menu stutters, is slow to load, or lags, then you can disable a few settings to speed up your Start Menu.
How to Customize the New Tab Page in Microsoft EdgeThe Chromium-based Microsoft Edge now allows you to customize or even turn off what you see when a new tab is opened.
How to Enable and Configure Tracking Prevention in Microsoft EdgeTracking Prevention is a feature available in the Chromium-based Microsoft Edge. Tracking Prevention is designed to limit tracking from websites by blocking cookies loaded from third-party websites you're not visiting. Here's how to enable and configure Tracking Prevention.
Device Requires Further Installation ErrorDevice Requires Further Installation is an error that can appear when plugging in a USB device. When a USB device is plugged in Windows automatically downloads and installs the required drivers. If the driver is outdated or corrupted, you might see this error.
Windows Update KB4515384 Causing Problems on Windows 10Microsoft has confirmed that Windows Update KB4515384 is not rendering multichannel audio correctly. People experiencing problems will notice that their audio does not sound the same as expected. Other users are saying that the update has caused problems with network adapters, search, Start menu, Action Center, and USB connections.
Hard Drive Shows Wrong Free Space In some situations, you might notice your hard drive is showing the wrong free space, particularly with Windows 10. The problem could be as simple as a large file taking up space or even a failing hard drive. Here are the steps you can take to locate the problem.
Microsoft Edge: Administrator Mode DetectedWhen launching the Chromium-based Microsoft Edge, you might receive a notification that reads "Administrator Mode Detected. Close Microsoft Edge and relaunch in non-administrator mode for best performance. Here's why, and how to fix this annoyance.
Drag and Drop Files or Folders Not WorkingDrag and drop is an often-used feature to move files or folders from one location to another. If you're drag and drop has stopped working, try these steps.
How to Show the Actual Path in Windows 10 File ExplorerThe Windows 10 File Explorer address bar, by default, does not automatically show the full address of the folder you're viewing but instead uses breadcrumbs. For example, when you're looking at your Pictures folder, you will see This PC > Pictures. But, this isn't the actual path to the Pictures folder. Here's how to quickly find the actual path.
How to Stop Google Chrome Crash Reports Sending Personal InformationWhen Google Chrome crashes, a crash report is generated and sent to Google to improve their browser. Information sent includes the version of your browser, extensions installed, the website visited at the time of the crash, operating system, and country. Also, personal information, including payment methods and passwords, can be sent. Here's how to disable Chrome from sending your personal information.
Restore, Minimize, Maximize or Close Buttons Not WorkingWe've seen a situation where you're trying to restore, minimize, or close a window and suddenly there's no response. Try these steps to solve the problem.
How to Fix Slow Internet on Windows 10Diagnosing slow internet speeds can be difficult. Your issues can be with your operating system, router, wireless connection, or even your internet provider. If you are experiencing slow speeds with Windows 10, here are some steps you can take.
How to Stop Google Chrome From Starting AutomaticallyGoogle Chrome remains the most used browser on the internet but like any app, has its share of bugs and problems. One problem that can annoy people is Google Chrome starting when you start or restart your computer. Here are a few possible solutions.
What is Window Auto-Tuning?Windows Auto-Tuning is a feature introduced in Windows Vista and still in use on Windows 10. Windows Auto-Tuning was designed to automatically improve the performance for programs that receive TCP data over a network.
How to Remove the Feedback Smiley Button in Microsoft EdgeAs Microsoft continues developing the Chromium-based Microsoft Edge, you might have noticed the Feedback smiley located in the top right corner. Clicking the smiley face will open a Send Feedback page. There's currently no setting to remove the smiley, but we can remove the Feedback button using the registry.
How to Hide Your Gameplay Activity in Steam Profile and ChatAnyone who calls themselves a gamer has Steam. Over the years, Steam has added a lot of social aspects allowing you to see what games your friends are playing and vice versa. If you'd prefer not to share this information, you can do so following these tips.
What is AppVShNotify.exe?AppVShNotif.exe can be found in Windows 10, 8, and 7. in should be located in C:\Program Files\Common Files\microsoft shared\ClickToRun. It stands for Microsoft Application Virtualization Client Shell Notifier and is part of virtualized application integration with Microsoft Office.
How to Use the Ping Command in WindowsThe ping command in Windows is a powerful tool to verify the connection between your computer and another computer or server. Ping is easy enough to use but also offers many switches for custom pings.
Vcomp120.Dll Is Missing ErrorVcomp120.Dll is missing is a common error with games, and some apps, yet simple to fix. The solution is to install the correct, missing Visual Basic Runtimes.
How to Use Vinegar, Salt, and Dish Soap to Kill Weeds NaturallyToday, we're going off the beaten path to try out a natural week killer. If you've read the many articles out there, there's no secret to what the three ingredients are, even though people even argue that point. In this article, we give this natural weed killer a try and show you the results.
How to Open a HEIF or HEIC Image in Windows 10While looking through Apps & features, you might have noticed and wondered what HEIF Image Extensions are and why you can't delete or uninstall it. In this article, we discuss what the HEIF format is and how you can open, or convert them.
How to Uninstall Get Help in Windows 10There are many useful apps included with Windows 10, but there are some you might want to remove. In this guide, we look at how to remove the Get Help App.
How to Uninstall Calculator in Windows 10Windows 10 includes a Calculator that continues to be improved and uses very little space on your drive. But, if you're looking to slim down your Windows 10 installation, you can remove Calculator using one of these steps.
How to Change the Windows 10 Notification Display TimeWindows 10 and apps can send out notifications that appear on the screen for 5 seconds by default. In this guide, we show you how to change the Windows 10 notification display time to whatever you like.
How to Fix No Sound With YouTubeIn this article, we look at the possible reason for YouTube having no sound. We won't insult your intelligence and assume you already checked that your device isn't muted and that the volume level on both your device and YouTube are turned up.
How to Monitor GPU Temperatures Using Task ManagerThe Windows Task Manager is a useful app that can monitor processes, performance, app history, users, details, and even services. Here's how to check your GPU (graphics processing unit) using Task Manager.
How to Update Your Router FirmwareOccasionally, most routers have firmware upgrades. Firmware is software that is written to the read-only memory of your hardware and includes anything from bug fixes, performance improvements, and security fixes. Here's how to check for, and update your router's firmware.
How to Show and Manage all Installed Printers in WindowsOver time, numerous printers can be added or removed, causing conflicts and problems. In this article, we show you how to view and manage all current and previously installed printers.
How to Create and Restore a Windows 10 Recovery or System ImageOne feature we appreciate in Windows 10 is the ability to create a system image. Once you have an image saved, you can recover your Windows 10 installation or upgrade to an SSD hard drive. Here's how.
How to Change Windows Registered Owner and Organization InfoIf you type in winver in the Command Prompt, you will be shown your Windows build and edition as well as who the product is licensed to, better known as the Registered Owner. You can easily change the Registered Owner and the Organization by editing the registry.
A Step by Step Guide to Removing Unwanted iTunes ComponentsAnyone who has an iPhone and a Windows computer might need to install iTunes to manage music, for example. iTunes will also install Apple Application Support (32-bit), Apple Application Support (64-bit), Apple Mobile Device Support, and Apple Software Update installed. Do you need all of them?
How to Customize Windows 10 Location ServicesThe Windows 10 Location service allows Windows to use your device to determine your location. Windows will accomplish this using GPS, nearby wireless access points, your IP address, or nearby cell towers. Some people prefer to disable location for privacy, but some apps won't work without location services enabled. Here's how to enable, disable, or customize our location.
What's the Difference Between Dual-Layer and Double-Sided DVD's?Computer storage has become larger and more affordable. The average hard drive is 1-terabyte and under 50 dollars, while 8-gigabyte flash drives cost only a few dollars. Because of this, the CD and DVD have become relics. The only solution, if you need a DVD, is dual-layer or double-sided DVD's. But what's the difference between the two?
How to Fix Windows Mouse Buttons ReversedIf you find your mouse buttons are reversed, it should be a simple fix. When you left-click, you're probably getting the Context Menu instead of the action you expected. Here's how to fix this problem.
How to Troubleshoot a Mouse That's Slow, Lagging or JumpyWe've dealt with thousands of possible Windows problems and the solutions, but a malfunctioning mouse is one of the worst. Symptoms can include your mouse pausing, jumping, or even just slow. Here are the steps you can take to troubleshoot a mouse that no longer responds like it used to.
How to Switch Between Windows, Hunspell, or no Spellchecker in Chromium Microsoft EdgeMicrosoft has made the Windows Spellcheck part of the Chromium-based Microsoft Edge as well as the default "Hunspell spellchecker." Here is how you can choose the spellcheck you prefer.
How to Disable 'Get Even More Out of Windows'On a clean install of Windows 10, you will occasionally see 'Get Even More Out of Windows' notification. Starting with build 18945, you can disable this in settings, or edit the Registry.
What to Do When Your Window 10 ISO Is Larger Than Your DVDWindows 10 has become larger than the standard DVD size, so how are you supposed to burn Windows 10 to a DVD for installation?
Unpin a Group of Tiles or Folders From Windows 10 Start MenuThe Windows 10 Start Menu comes with a collection of folders and Tiles that you might want to remove. Also, over time, the Start Menu might get cluttered. Windows 10 makes it easy to delete whole groups or folders from the Windows 10 Start Menu. Here's how.
VMWare Failed to Get Exclusive Lock on the Configuration File ErrorRecently while having some issues with VMWare, we received an error that said "Failed to get exclusive lock on the configuration file. Another VMware process might be running using the configuration file." Once we clicked on OK, an "Internal error" followed. We found this easier to fix than expected. Here's how.
How to Uninstall Mail and Calendar Apps in Windows 10If you find you don't use the Mail or Calendar apps in Windows 10, here's how to remove them.
How to Enable or Disable Windows 10 & 11 Tamper ProtectionTamper Protection is a smart Windows Security feature added in the Windows 10 1803 update. Tamper Protection does not allow malicious apps to modify Windows Defender, including real-time protection and cloud-delivered protection. Tamper Protection works seamlessly with all other antivirus programs.
How to Use Windows 10 Focus Assist to Avoid DistractionsMany of us find ourselves easily distracted when working on our computers. Windows has renamed Quiet Hours to Focus Assist and added options to schedule times and what notifications are allowed.
How to Replace the Command Prompt With PowerShell in Start MenuAs you're probably aware, Windows 10 gives you quick access to the PowerShell or the Command Prompt when you right-click on the Start button or press the Windows Key + X. If you use this shortcut frequently and prefer one over the other, there's a setting for that.
Windows 10 & 11 Sandbox Feature Is Grayed OutIf you're trying to enable the Windows 10 Sandbox feature and find that it's grayed out, you'll need to check your BIOS options.
How to Permanently Delete the Camera Roll and Saved Pictures FoldersWindows 10 creates two folders in the Pictures folder called Camera Roll and Saved Pictures. These folders are typically empty, but some people find them annoying especially after deleted and they return. Here's how to remove them permanently.
What Is the System.sav Folder and Can I Delete It?If you have hidden files and folders enabled, you might have spotted a hidden folder called system.sav and wondered what it was and if you can delete it.
The Handle Is Invalid Error on Windows 10"The handle is invalid" error is one that appears when you are logging in, and the problem is usually related to a Windows Update problem or using the wrong credentials to log in.
How to Fix Package Could Not Be Registered ErrorWhile using the Windows 10 Photos app, you might have received an error that ends with "Package could not be registered." The following steps should resolve this error.
How to Disable Bing Search in the Windows 10 Start MenuWhen you use the Windows 10 search from the Start Menu, Bing web results are included. There's no option to change or remove the Bing search, but we can disable the web search entirely using the Windows Registry.
Install Any Website as a Progressive Web App with Microsoft EdgeThe Chromium-based Microsoft Edge now allows you to install any website as an app. You can do this with sites that support Progressive Apps, including Amazon, or even websites that don't, like MajorGeeks.Com.
How to Modify, Turn on, or Turn off the Text Cursor Indicator in Windows 10The text cursor indicator is the flashing cursor you see when typing in any text-based program including Microsoft Office, Microsoft Word, and Notepad. Windows 10 now allows you to set the size and color of the cursor and we even have registry files to enable or disable the indicator, which would be useful for presentations.
Operation Did Not Complete Successfully Because the File Contains a VirusMost antivirus apps, including Windows Defender, may occasionally activate when you activate a file that is suspected of being malicious or containing a virus. The error you get will read, "Operation did not complete successfully because the file contains a virus."
How to Stop a Web Page from Auto RefreshingSometimes you may come across websites that automatically refresh. There are valid reasons for that, including dynamic websites which may refresh or reload the page you're viewing to show you updated content. If you'd like to disable auto-refresh, here's how.
How to Prevent Installation of Removable Devices Preventing the installation of removable devices can add an extra layer of security to your computer by not allowing an external drive to be attached when plugged into your computer. You can avoid data theft by disabling removable devices. Here's how.
How to Uninstall Groove MusicGroove Music is a preinstalled app in Windows 10 that you might want to uninstall. Unlike many built-in apps, you can't always search and right-click to uninstall Groove Music, but it is still easy to remove.
How to Increase or Decrease Android Font Sizes on AndroidYou may run into a time when your message fonts on your Android device became larger or smaller, especially in Messages. Here are a few tips to get your font size to whatever size you like.
How to Manually Update Windows Defender DefinitionsIt's a well-known fact that any antivirus is only as good as its updates. Windows Defender updates daily, but should you run into a problem updating, here's how you can update Windows Defender manually.
How to Update or Pause the Default Task Manager Data Update SpeedWindows 8 and Windows 10 have an updated Task Manager that includes many new features, options, and settings. One of the new settings that are easy to overlook is the ability to change the default data update speed.
How to Clear the Display Cache in Windows 10Windows 10 keeps track of any displays you have in the Windows Display Cache. If you're having problems with your output display clearing the display cache may help. Here's how.
How to Add and Remove Speech Voices in Windows 10Windows 10, like its predecessors, includes text-to-speech which you can use with Cortana and Narrator, amongst other things. Windows 7 and Vista featured Anna, and Windows 8 gave you David, Zira and Hazel voices. In this guide, we show you how to add or remove speeches in Windows 10.
Windows 10 Photos App Opens Slowly or Not at AllThe Windows 10 Photos app is used by many because it's the default app on Windows 10. There are times where you might find the app is opening slow, or not at all. Here are the steps you can take to get the Photos app back up and running correctly.
Your Location Is Currently in Use in Windows 10Windows 10 uses Location Tracking Service similar to how your smartphone keeps track of where you are. For many, the service is useful or even needed, but those who prefer their privacy would prefer to turn this feature off. Here's how.
How to Install and Uninstall Winamp SkinsWinamp continues to live in, and people love it even with its complicated history of ownership and releases. Winamp users also like to share their custom made skins. Here's how to install a skin in Winamp.
Windows Start Menu Not RespondingWe've seen an issue when the Windows Start Menu freezes or stops responding. There are a couple of options to resolve this problem.
This Browser Does Not Support Video PlaybackThis browser does not support video playback is an error that can appear on most popular web browsers including Chrome, Firefox, and Opera. Here are the steps you can try to fix the problem.
How to Clear Browsing Data When Microsoft Edge is ClosedIf you have the Chromium-based Microsoft Edge and like to keep things tidy and private, there's an option to clear any, or all data you want each time you close the browser. Here's how.
How to Diagnose Sound Delays, Lags and Audio Latency in Windows 10If you're experiencing sound delays, lag, or audio latency on Windows 10, here is the reason and the steps you can try to resolve this issue.
How to Fix Gmail Outgoing Emails Marked as QueuedRecently we ran into an error message sending emails on our Android device stating that our outgoing messages were queued. Here's a simple fix for this problem.
There Was a Problem Starting C:\Windows\System32\LogiLDA.dll ErrorIf you receive an error stating, "There was a problem starting C:\Windows\System32\LogiLDA.dll." You might also be told that "The specified module could not be found." The problem is with your Logitech software. The error is known to appear after a Windows Update. Follow these steps to resolve this error.
How to Add and Customize Reserve Battery Level Power OptionsWindows 7-10 users can add the Reserve Battery Level option which allows you to decide what percentage of battery needs to be reached before you're notified.
How to Restore the Old Twitter DesignIn July of 2019, Twitter rolled out a new design and, as always, not everyone is ready for the changes. Here's a simple trick to keep the old design for now or even only see some of the changes you prefer.
How to Diagnose Streaming Issues With Amazon AlexaStreaming issues with Amazon Alexa devices can be frustrating to diagnose. Here are the steps you can take to diagnose internet and streaming problems.
How to Uninstall the Xbox Game Bar in Windows 10The Game bar in Windows 10 is a gaming overlay that many of us don't use. In this guide, we show you how to remove the Xbox Game bar (previously known as Game Bar) from Windows 10 because the Xbox Game bar can no longer be officially uninstalled.
How to Uninstall the Feedback HubFeedback Hub is geared more towards Windows Insiders allowing them to provide feedback, suggestions, and bugs for Windows 10. In this guide, we look at how to remove the Feedback Hub feature.
How to Uninstall the Camera AppThere are many useful apps included with Windows 10, but there are some you might want to remove. In this guide, we look at how to remove the Camera App.
How to Uninstall the 3D Viewer AppThere are many useful apps included with Windows 10, but there are some you might want to remove. In this guide, we look at how to remove the 3D Viewer App.
How to Uninstall the Microsoft News AppThere are many useful apps included with Windows 10, but there are some you might want to remove. In this guide, we look at how to remove the Microsoft News App.
How to Uninstall the Movies and TV AppThere are many useful apps included with Windows 10, but there are some you might want to remove. In this guide, we look at how to remove the Movies and TV App.
How to Add Device Idle Policy to Power OptionsDevice Idle Policy is a little known, hidden feature in Windows 10. Device Idle Policy determines whether conservation idle timeouts or performance idle timeouts are used for devices that integrate with Windows kernel power manager device idle detection. The Device Idle Policy is available to users of Windows Vista and up, including Windows 10.
How to Fix When File Explorer Quick Access Is Slow or Not WorkingQuick Access in File Explorer is a feature that allows you to see recent and frequently used files giving you, well, Quick Access, to these files. If you find that Quick Access is slow, or not working, here are some steps you can try.
Is It Safe to Turn on a Hot or Cold Computer?A common question with computers is if, or when, it's safe to turn on a computer or laptop after it's been sitting in extreme heat or cold temperatures.
How to Fix Greyed out Location Services in Windows 10If you use Location Services in Windows 10, some people have found the option greyed out and hence, not usable. The cause can be from third-party apps, including those that protect your privacy. Here are the steps you can try to get Location Services working again.
Explorer.Exe – System Call Failed ErrorWhen starting File Explorer, you may come across an error that reads Explorer.exe – System call failed. Here are the steps you can take to resolve this error.
How to Fix NVIDIA Geforce Experience Error Code 0x0001Users of NVIDIA GeForce Experience may occasionally run into error code 0x0001 which can be due to out of date or faulty drivers or Windows Services not running correctly. Follow these steps to resolve this error.
Your Browser Does Not Currently Recognize Any of the Video Formats AvailableYour browser does not currently recognize any of the video formats available is an error that can occasionally appear, most often in Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox. The error is usually temporary and easy to resolve. Here are the steps you can take to fix this error.
How to Enable or Disable Media Autoplay in Microsoft EdgeMicrosoft Edge has a unique feature that can limit audio and video that play automatically on websites you visit. The interesting thing about Microsoft Edge is that it will try and learn what websites you visit and whether you interacted with media in the past. From there, you should be able to have autoplay still when you want it.
How to Change Screen and Sleep Settings on Windows 10Windows 10 offers options to change when your Screen turns off as well as when your computer goes to Sleep. Both settings allow you to save Power and even extend the life of your hardware. Here is what you need to know, so your computer turns off your monitor and puts your computer to sleep, so it suits your needs.
How to Remove Chromium MalwareWhile Chromium is legitimate and the source code used in Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge, malware writers have taken advantage of this Open Source code to create and install their own malicious versions of Chromium. In this guide, we discuss how to identify and remove Chromium malware.
How to Rename Computer (1) to This PC After Windows UpdateSome Windows 10 users have reported that their computer was renamed Computer (1) instead of This PC following a Windows Update. While the computer remains fully functional, here's how to change the name back to This PC.
How to Hide the Windows 10 Windows Security Tray IconIf you prefer to keep your tray icons simple, one option is to hide the Windows Security icon. While it's not recommended you do so, who are we to stop you?
How to Change the Default Account Picture in Windows 10Windows 10 uses a simple default picture, or avatar on the Windows 10 login screen. There is no built-in way to remove that picture, but in this guide, we have a workaround for you to remove the User Account picture.
How to Fix Oops! We Couldn’t Save That One ErrorOne error you might come across with the Windows 10 Photos app when saving or overwriting an existing file reads "Oops! We couldn’t save that one." In this guide, we look at a few possible solutions to this problem.
How to Uninstall the Xbox Console CompanionThere are many useful apps included with Windows 10, but there are some you might want to remove. In this guide, we look at how to remove the Xbox Console Companion.
How to Automatically Back up the Registry on Windows 10/11Windows 10 has greatly improved recovering your PC with troubleshooters, Reset This PC and System Restore. One thing that has changed after build 1803 is the automatic registry backup is no longer used. Instead, Microsoft suggests you use System Restore. In this guide, we show you how to enable automatic registry backups.
How to Access a Window When the Title Bar Goes off the ScreenIt's happened to all of us. You're working with an application, and the window slides partially off the screen, and you can't access the menu bar to close or save your work. Here's how you can still access your program.
What Is Microsoft Visual C++ and Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package?Every so often you may run into errors where your search leads you to install the latest Visual C++ Redistributable Package, or runtimes, to resolve your problem. But, what exactly is Microsoft Visual C++ and Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package?
The Ultimate List of Every Known File Explorer Keyboard ShortcutComputer geeks love our keyboard shortcuts. To most of us, they are time-saving second nature habits we've acquired over time. In this article, we look at all of the known shortcuts for File Explorer to get you started, or just as a refresher. Many of these commands also work for Windows Explorer before becoming File Explorer on Windows 10.
How to Fix Reddit Search Not WorkingReddit is undoubtedly a very popular website but with a mediocre search engine at best. In some cases, an error that reads "Sorry we couldn’t load search results" may appear. In this article, we look at possible fixes when the search isn't working for you, or other ways to make use of the Reddit search.
How to Manage, Enable or Disable Reserved Storage on Windows 10Starting with version 1903, Microsoft has introduced Reserved Storage, a feature that allows you to see where your hard drive space is being used on Windows 10. In this guide, we show you how to manage Reserved Storage and how to enable or disable it.
How to Identify Processes or Services on Your ComputerAt some point in time, every computer user sees a process or service and wonders what it is, if it's needed or worse if it's malicious. Finding out what a process or service does is relatively easy to do.
How to Fix Mouse Cursor Jumping or Moving Randomly While TypingIf your mouse cursor is jumping or randomly moving around while typing, here are some steps you can try to fix this problem.
How to Fix You’ll Need a New App to Open This MS-Windows-StoreIf you receive an error that reads "You’ll Need a New App to Open This MS-Windows-Store," then there's a problem with the Windows Store not working.
How to Fix Netflix Error Code u7353If you're getting an error on Netflix that stats "Whoops, something went wrong. We’re having trouble playing this title right now. Please try again later or select a different title. Error code: U7353" here is the steps you can try to resolve this particular error.
How to Download the Latest Drivers for WindowsGetting the latest drivers for your computer should be easy, but with hundreds, if not thousands, of possible combinations of operating systems, hardware and computer manufacturers, getting the latest drivers can be overwhelming. In this article, we explain the best, and worst, ways to get the latest drivers for your computer.
How to Disable or Enable File Grouping in File ExplorerAs you may be aware, File Explorer lets you arrange your files and folders by Name, Type, Date Modified, Size, Author, Tags, and more. Additionally, files that share a common attribute can also be grouped using what's called File Grouping. In this guide, we show you how to disable File Grouping.
How to Check If Your Hard Drive Is SSD or HDDIf you recently bought a new computer or hard drive, you might be wondering if your hard drive is an SSD drive or a standard HDD. In this article, we look at the differences between HDD and SSD and how to tell which one you have.
How to Set the Default Tab in Task Manager on Windows 10Starting with Windows 10 1903 (May Update), you can now set the default tab in Task Manager. Here's how.
How to Check What Graphic Card (GPU) Is in Your ComputerYour graphics card, or GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), is a critical part of your computer. Everything you do on your PC, you do with your eyes and the quality of your video card is essential, but so are the drivers you use. This is even more important if you're a game, photographer, or graphics artist. Here's how to identify your graphics card make and model.
How to Fix Windows 10 Start Menu Search Not WorkingThe Windows 10 search menu has been known to break, and there are numerous reasons why and what you can do to solve the problem. In this guide, we look at all the known solutions to this problem.
How to Check Your BIOS VersionWhen troubleshooting, you might need to check your BIOS version to see if an update is available. While there are a few tools that can check your BIOS version for you, it's easiest to use Windows System Information Tool, the Windows Management Instrumentation command line (typically referred to as WMI or WMIC), or even with the Registry.
Notifications Missing From Action CenterIf you no longer see notifications in the Action Center, here are a few steps to get them back.
Unable to connect to Synaptics Pointing Device DriverIn this article, we look at the possible solutions if you are receiving an error that states "Unable to connect to Synaptics Pointing Device Driver."
Source Path Too Long ErrorWhen trying to delete a file or folder with over 258 characters, you may encounter an error that says, Source Path Too Long followed by "The source file name(s) are larger than is supported by the file system." In this guide, we look at the steps to solve this error.
How to Delete Old Notifications in Action Center on Windows 10Notifications in Windows 10 can be a useful feature to keep you productive and informed, but they can also pile up and be distracting, or even annoying. In this guide, we look at how to delete a single notification or all notifications.
How to Show Hidden or Masked Passwords Behind AsterisksIn most applications and web browsers, your passwords are hidden behind asterisks (*******) for security purposes. While this is a great feature, what happens when you forgot or lost a password?
How to Disable the Blurred Login Screen in Windows 10Beginning with Windows 10 build 1903 you might notice that your login screen is now blurred putting the focus on where you enter your login details. This new feature is known as Acrylic Blur Effect on Sign-in Screen. For those of you who prefer the old way, here's how.
How to Fix Windows Update Components Must Be RepairedIf you receive an error that reads "Windows Update components must be repaired, One or more windows update components are configured incorrectly" then here are the steps to fix Windows Update.
Fix: Some Settings Are Managed by Your OrganizationThere are numerous guides on getting rid of the "Some Settings Are Managed by Your Organization" errors, but they require multiple steps by editing the registry and using Group Polic Editor to access telemetry and privacy settings. The problems here are many, and we've found a better way.
Do Cheap Windows 10 Keys Really Work?If you need to buy a Windows 10 license, you've probably come across websites that are selling what they claim are legitimate Windows 10 keys, sometimes as cheap as $20. How do they sell these keys so cheaply, or is this a scam?
How to Manage Passwords, Payment Info, and Addresses in Chromium-Based Microsoft EdgeLike all web browsers, the Chromium-Based Microsoft Edge can save your personal information, including passwords, credit cards, and addresses simplifying logging into websites and shopping. There may come a time when you need to remove, change, or edit this information. Here's how.
What Is the rundll32.exe Process?rundll32.exe is a legitimate Windows process, but many websites use rundll32.exe as a scare tactic for viruses and malware. Here's what you need to know.
Windows Could Not Connect to the System Event Notification ServiceWindows could not connect to the System Event Notification Service is an error that can appear when you get to the Windows login screen or in the system tray notification area. Here are the known steps to get rid of this error.
How to Force Windows 10 to Reboot Immediately After Windows UpdatesMicrosoft has added (Build 1903) more customization settings for when Windows updates, and when it reboots. One such option is to have Windows reboot automatically after an update. If you have Active Hours configured, your computer can reboot when you're not typically using your computer. Here's how.
How and Why You Can Whitelist Cookies in Drive Cleaning AppsMost popular drive cleaners offer the option to whitelist cookies, and a reader asked us recently why they would want to whitelist cookies.
All Known Issues with the Windows 10 1903, May 2019 Feature UpdateWe recommended you put off the May 2019 update, but if you didn't, here is a list of known issues as the Windows 10 1903, May 2019 is throttling up.
What is LZMA Compression?You may rarely (as a Windows user) come across a file with the LZMA extension and wonder what it is. LZMa is a type of file compression similar to RAR or ZIP, and it stands for Lempel-Ziv-Markov chain-Algorithm. LZMA is mostly used for the Linux operating systems.
Lost My Connection or Can't Connect to Ubisoft ServersWhile playing Ubisoft games, including Uplay you may receive errors stating that you lost your connection or you can't connect to Ubisoft servers. In this guide, we look at possible solutions to these errors.
Windows Is Checking for a Solution to the ProblemWindows includes an Error Reporting Service where Windows will try to find a solution to a problem; usually, an application was crashing. Frequently, when this occurs, the Error Reporting Service will be stuck while searching for similar issues and a solution. If you experience this problem, we can disable the Error Reporting Service.
Mozilla Thunderbird Has Both Junk and Spam or Bulk Mail FoldersMozilla Thunderbird is one of the better free email clients available with built-in spam filters. We've seen times where an additional folder, called spam mysteriously appears. In this guide, we look at the reasons and solutions.
Error: CHKDSK Cannot Continue in Read-Only Mode - Disable Write ProtectionWhile CHKDSK is a handy utility included with Windows, there are several errors you might come across. One such error will reply with CHKDSK Cannot Continue in Read-Only Mode. There are a couple of ways to resolve this error.
How to Check Your Hard Disk Health Using WMICWindows Management Instrumentation or WMI is a lesser-known powerful utility that comes with Windows 10, 8, and 7. WMIC extends WMI for operation from several command-line interfaces and through batch scripts. In this guide, we show you how you can use WMIC to test your hard drive health quickly.
How to Fix a Computer That Shuts down When You RestartAn annoying problem that some run into is when you click Start, Restart and instead, your computer shuts down. Without realizing it, you might be looking at an issue where you're computer has crashed and shut down. Here are the steps you can try to resolve this problem.
PowerCFG Unexpected Error Condition Has OccurredPowerCFG is a command-line utility that first appeared on Windows XP that gives advanced users access to all configurable power system settings including many options you won't find in the Control Panel or Settings. Occasionally, one might run into an error that reads "An unexpected error condition has occurred. Unable to perform operation. You may not have permission to perform this operation."
Diagnose Power or Battery Issues with Power Efficiency Diagnostic Report ToolPowercfg is a command-line utility that first appeared on Windows XP that gives advanced users access to all configurable power system settings including many options you won't find in the Control Panel or Settings. Using PowerCFG, we can diagnose power issues and even generate a Battery Health Report using the Power Efficiency Diagnostic Report Tool.
How to Fix When Windows Shuts down Instead of SleepA known issue with Windows is a bug that is related to BIOS settings or the Intel Management Engine Interface that causes your computer to shut down when it should go into sleep mode. In this guide, we look at the possible fixes for this problem.
How to Disable Driver Signature EnforcementFor security purposes, Microsoft requires that any drivers you install are digitally signed or what is known as Windows Hardware Quality Labs or WHQL certified. There are situations where you might need to install unsigned drivers. In this guide, we show you how to bypass or disable driver signature enforcement.
What is Windows Hardware Quality Labs or WHQL?You've most likely seen stickers on new computers or hardware that says that it's Windows Hardware Quality Labs (WHQL) certified or Certified for Windows. So, what exactly does this mean?
What Is the Pause and Break Key on the Keyboard For?Here's an interesting question we received recently. Every keyboard has a Pause - Break key. Why is it there and what is it used for?
How to Change the Default Search Engine in the Chromium-Based Microsoft EdgeThe Chromium-based Microsoft Edge uses Bing as your default search provider. Edge also Google, DuckDuckGo, and Yahoo! as default search options. Here's how to change your search engine, or use any search engine you prefer as the default.
How to Change Touch Scrolling Friction in Windows 10Users who have a touch screen might find that they're not happy with the speed in which you scroll your finger in any direction. This action is known as Touch Scrolling Friction, and you can adjust the rate in the registry. Here's how.
How to Delete, Add, and Edit Context Menu ItemsThe Context Menu is a handy part of Windows that allows you to right-click on a file or folder and quickly perform frequently used actions. Some third-party applications add Context Menu items. You can also delete, edit, or add items yourself. Here's how.
Should Your Computer Be on the Floor or Desk?Just for fun, today we are revisiting the age-old question of whether your computer should be on the floor or inside or on top of your desk.
How to Fix Steam Missing or Unavailable Content Manifest ErrorsWhen trying to download or update your Steam games, you might encounter errors that say "manifest unavailable" or "missing content manifest." In this guide, we look at why and how these errors appear.
How to Fix Problems Installing Drivers from NVIDIA, Intel, or AMDVideo driver issues including failed installs, freezing during installation and other problems can be very frustrating when your drivers need updating. In this guide, we show you how to install graphics drivers from AMD, Intel, NVIDIA when you're having problems.
How to Turn Tablet Mode on and off in Windows 10There may be times you want to swap in or out of Tablet Mode on Windows 10, or maybe you accidentally found your PC in tablet mode and want to restore your settings to Desktop mode? Here are all the possible solutions.
The Ultimate List of Every Known PowerCFG CommandPowercfg is a command-line utility that first appeared on Windows XP that gives advanced users access to all configurable power system settings including many options you won't find in the Control Panel or Settings.
How to Download Your Google Accounts Including GmailJust about everyone has a Gmail account nowadays. Sometimes you might want to back up your Google data. In this guide, we walk you through the steps of backing up your Google Data focusing on backing up your Gmail as an example.
How to Fix the Windows 10 Orange Screen of DeathWe're all familiar with the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) in Windows, but there's also the Orange Screen of Death. Here are the steps you can take to fix this problem.
How to Turn on or off Tailored Experiences on Windows 10Tailored Experiences on Windows 10 allows Microsoft to get information from you to deliver personalized tips, ads, and recommendations. Many people would call this telemetry, or even spying. In this guide, we show you how you can enable or disable the Tailored Experiences.
What Type of Files Does Windows Media Player Support?Windows Media Player, as of version 12 for Windows 10, has become a more versatile media player that can play most, but not all formats. Here is a list of all the music and movie formats supported by Windows Media Player.
The First Thing to Test If Your Microphone Is Humming or BuzzingSolving an issue with a humming or buzzing microphone can be a frustrating experience. Like you, we searched everywhere for a solution without any luck, here's how we fixed our problem and in our opinion, is the first thing you want to try.
5 Ways to Open Registry Editor in WindowsAlmost any Windows users will find themselves needing to use the Registry Editor (Regedit) to make changes to the operating system that aren't typically allowed in Windows settings. In this guide, we show you the different ways you can open Regedit.
How to Scan and Repair a Single File Using System File CheckerThe System File Checker or SFC is built into Windows and can scan for, then repair or replace corrupted system files. SFC is a handy tool to fix a lot of problems. Typically, when you use System File Checker, you scan every file on your computer. If you know what file is causing the problem you can save time by scanning just the one file you suspect is causing the problem. Here's how.
How to Add the Home Button to Google Chrome and Microsoft EdgeBoth Google Chrome and the Chromium-based Microsoft Edge offer the option to have a home button, but this option is not always on by default. In this guide, we show you how easy it is to add or remove the Home button.
The Windows Update Service Could Not Be StoppedOccasionally when using "net stop wuauserv" from the Command Prompt or PowerShell, you might get an error message saying that "The Windows Update service could not be stopped." Here are the steps you can take to stop the Windows Update Service.
What Is Microphone AGC and Should It Be on or Off?While diagnosing problems, or just looking through your microphone settings, you may come across an option called AGC. What is AGC and should you turn it on or off?
How to Open, Customize, Download and Install Screensavers in Windows 10 & 11While screensavers are no longer needed, they are still readily available and a lot of fun for nostalgia or just for a laugh (remember the Licking Dog screensaver?) In this guide, we take a look at how to open and customize your screensavers.
How to Enable or Disable About:Flags Page in Microsoft EdgeThe about:flags is a hidden page used to change developer settings and allow enable experimental features in Microsoft Edge. These features are often experimental and can change at any time. But, you probably knew all that. Here's how to enable this hidden page.
How to Fix 'No Usable Free Extent Could Be Found' Error When Running DiskpartDiskpart is a feature of Windows that allows you to manage, create, or delete partitions using the Command Prompt or Powershell. One error you may encounter reads "No usable free extent could be found." Here are the steps you can try to resolve this error.
How to Fix Shift Key Not WorkingIn this guide, we show you the steps you can take if the Shift key on your keyboard is not working.
Windows Requires a Digitally Signed DriverIn most cases when installing new drivers, Windows Program Compatibility Assistant won't allow you to install a driver warning you that Windows requires a digitally signed driver. Here's why you receive this error and how to work around it.
How to Stop Google from Blocking Chromium-Based Microsoft EdgeGoogle currently has placed restrictions on some of its services while using the Chromium-based Microsoft Edge. Google says this is done until Microsoft releases a stable, final version of their browser. While there's some debate that Google is using underhanded tactics, we doubt it. Regardless, here's how to access some of the currently blocked services including Google Meet and Google Docs.
How to Optimize USB Drives for Better PerformanceYou might be surprised to find out that Microsoft has dropped the default "better performance" option for the "quick removal" option. Here are the differences between the two modes and instructions on how to turn better performance back on.
How to Fix What Needs Your Attention - This PC Can’t Be Upgraded to Windows 10When upgrading to Windows 10 May Feature update, some of you might see an error message that says "What needs your attention" and "This PC can’t be upgraded to Windows 10."
3 Ways to Change Windows 10 Active HoursActive Hours is a Windows 10 feature that lets you tell your computer when you're most likely to be using your computer. The primary goal of Active Hours is to not automatically reboot your computer after a Windows Update. Changing Active Hours is easy; here's all you need to know.
How to Find Your Wi-Fi Password on Windows 7, 8, and 10If you have another computer that you want to connect to your wireless network, you wouldn't be the first to lose or forget the password. In this guide, we show you how to find your wireless network password.
How to Fix 'Game Security Violation Detected' ErrorsGame Security Violation Detected is an error that appears and can prevent you from playing games including Fortnite, Wildlands, and many other games that come with Steam, Epic, and Ubisoft, to name a few. The error message usually has a pound sign followed by seven zeros and a random number or letter (#00000006 or 00000010, for example). Here are the steps you can take to fix this error.
5 Ways to Open Group Policy EditorMany of our guides suggest using Group Policy Editor, a powerful tool for making changes to Windows including many things you usually can't change in the Control Panel. Group Policy Editor is only available in Windows 10 Pro and Enterprise, but Windows 10 Home users can enable it by following a couple of easy steps.
How to Show or Hide the Safely Remove Hardware IconThe Safely Remove Hardware icon is designed to protect a USB device if ejected. However, many of us either have a device plugged in all the time, or never use this icon. Here's how to hide the icon from view. We also discuss a related problem when you have greyed out options when trying to turn an icon on or off.
How to Fix a Laptop That's Plugged in but Not ChargingIf your laptop is plugged in, but you see a message saying that it's not charging, here are some steps you can try to resolve this problem.
How to Disable Cortana From Starting Automatically in Windows 10Starting with Windows 10 build 2004, Microsoft has made some changes to Cortana, including how to disable Cortana from starting with Windows.
How to Remove or Edit Saved Credit Card Information in Chrome, Firefox, and EdgeMost of us save our credit card information in our web browser to make life a little easier. Sooner or later you'll need, or want, to edit, or remove a saved credit card. You might also want to stop using this feature altogether. In this guide, we show you how to manage all your saved credit card information.
How to Stop Facebook’s Targeted Advertising Facebook, like many large tech companies, tracks your movements and collects information to show targeted advertising. In this guide, we show you how to stop the targeted advertising and even give you back a little bit of privacy.
What Is Jucheck.Exe and Should I Remove It?You may have seen a process on your computer called JUcheck.exe. JUcheck is an automatic updater for the Java Runtime Environment. In this guide, we look at what it does and if you should remove it.
How to Prevent Storage Sense from Deleting Downloaded FilesStorage Sense is the Windows 10 replacement for Disk Cleaner. Storage Sense can remove junk files automatically and free up disk space. Storage Sense will delete files in your downloads folder when run. In this guide, we show you how to change, or stop when downloaded files are deleted.
How to Fix an Upside Down or Sideways ScreenMost laptops will allow you to flip the screen up, down, left, or right, by pressing a few keys. If you suddenly see your screen has rotated, here are the key combinations to restore your screen.
What Is an SS USB Port?On a modern computer, we're all used to seeing the USB icons, but you might also see the letters SS next to some of your USB ports. In this guide, we explain what the SS stands for.
How to Block or Defer the Windows 10 May 2019 UpdateThe next significant feature update for Windows 10 is due at the end of May 2019 known as build 1903. While Microsoft appears to be ready to roll it out slowly to look for issues, many of you might want to put off the update until all the kinks are worked out. Microsoft has changed how you can block the update since the last major update from October of last year.
Why You Shouldn't (Mostly) Use Free VPN ServicesIn a world full of privacy concerns, many people turn to Virtual Private Networks to hide their IP, avoid being tracked, and hide ads. Ironically, many free VPN services can do precisely the opposite.
How to Fix Windows 10 Stuck on Diagnosing your PC or Preparing Automatic RepairWhile Windows 10 automatic repairs have improved, there is a frustrating situation where the computer gets stuck while the screen displays Diagnosing your PC or Preparing Automatic Repair. Here are the steps you can take to solve this problem.
How to Check if Your Windows License is Retail, OEM, or VolumeThere are three types of Windows licenses: Retail, OEM, or Volume. If you're wondering what the difference is, or which version you have, here's all you need to know.
How to Run Windows 10 Troubleshooters AutomaticallyBeginning with Windows 10 Build 1903, Microsoft will be upgrading the built-in troubleshooters with a feature called Recommended Troubleshooting. This new feature can optionally fix critical problems when they appear. In this guide, we show you the three options available for this feature.
How to Fix File Explorer Stuck on 'Working on It' Error MessageA long-running issue with Windows 10 is File Explorer getting stuck when loading the contents of a folder. You will usually see the green progress bar hang, or move very slowly while seeing a message that says "Working on it.." In this guide, we look at the steps you can take to resolve this problem.
Change User Account Control (UAC) Prompt Behavior for Standard Users in Windows 10 & 11Account Control, or UAC, has been built into Windows for security to prevent changes to your computer. While Administrators can quickly get around these prompts, Standard users may need to enter additional credentials. In this guide, we look at how to change the UAC prompt for Standard users.
List of Generic Keys to Use in Windows 10 & 11If you find yourself in a situation where you need a Windows 10 key, Microsoft does provide a list of generic keys. These keys will expire but are perfect for short terms use, for example when using a Virtual Machine.
How to Hide Files or Folders Using Command Prompt or PowerShellHiding files or folders from the File Explorer view is a great way to protect files from being deleted or found. Installing a third-party program can do the trick, although if you're trying to hide files from someone, it could tip them off. In this guide, we look at hiding files or folders using the Command Prompt or PowerShell.
What Is a RAR File and How to Open ThemSooner or later you may come across a file you download that ends in the RAR extension instead of the EXE, ZIP, or MSI format that you're accustomed to. In this guide, we explain what a RAR file is and how you can use it.
How to Install Extensions on Microsoft Edge from Chrome Web StoreThe Chromium-based Microsoft Edge allows you to download extensions from the Google Chrome web store. They both use the same Chromium engine, and at the time of this article, there are many more extensions available for Google Chrome. This is excellent news for Edge users and very easy to do. Here's how.
How to Change, Add, or Remove Windows Notification SoundsWindows 10 has many default sounds for different events that we've grown accustomed to over the years. These sounds range from beeps to short and simple melodies. In this guide, we look at how to change, add or even remove sounds from many Windows events.
How to Enable Device Casting in Chromium Based Microsoft EdgeDevice casting, including Chromecast, is supported in the latest Chromium based Microsoft Edge but you have to enable it because casting is considered experimental at the time of this guide. Here's how you can enable casting now.
How to Fix Low or out of Memory Errors While Copying Files on Windows 10When transferring files, you may occasionally run into error messages including "Out of memory or system resources, Close some windows or programs and try again" and "There is not enough memory to complete this operation – copying files." In this guide, we look at all the known fixes for these errors.
How to Fix Videos Folder Missing or Duplicate Documents Folder in Windows 10An unusual problem with Windows 10 is a missing Videos folder in File Explorer. Sometimes, not only is the Video folder missing but you also now have two Documents folder. Typically, if you have two document folders, one will be empty while the other contains all the files and folders. In this guide, we look at a few possible solutions to this problem.
How to Troubleshoot Microsoft Edge Insider Build Installation ErrorsIf you've downloaded the new Chromium-based Microsoft Edge, it is a Preview build (beta), and some problems may occur. In this guide, we look at all the known errors and solutions.
How to Set up an Ftp Server on Windows 10For someone who needs an FTP server briefly, Windows 10 has a built-in FTP server. We should note that the Windows 10 FTP server wouldn't be one we'd use regularly, but again, in a pinch, it can get the job done. Here's how.
How to Fix Microsoft Windows 10 Media Creation Tool ErrorsThe Microsoft Windows 10 Media Creation Tool is a popular app for people to download the latest Windows 10 ISO to their computer. There are a handful of errors that can appear causing the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool not to work. Here are the steps to fix these errors or better yet, download the latest ISO's a different way.
How to Stop Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge from Running in the BackgroundGoogle Chrome and the Chromium-based Microsoft Edge can gobble up a lot of resources even when closed. Some extensions and apps including Facebook can continue to run in the background and also show notifications. Those who need to free up resources including laptops and gamers might find stopping Chrome and Edge from running in the background to be just what you need.
What Is a wab.exe File?You may have noticed a file called wab.exe on your computer and wondered what it was. wab.exe is part of your Windows Contacts, People, Outlook, and more and is referred to as the Windows Address Book.
How to Fix Screen Flickering with Google Chrome in Windows 10 & 11If you're experiencing screen flickering in Windows 10 with Google Chrome, here's a simple fix for that problem.
How to Add Emojis to File and Folder Names in Windows 10Windows 10 allows you to use Emojis for any file or folder making them easier to spot. As you know, Windows does not let you use most characters to make your folders stand out ( / : * ? ” < > |) so using Emoji's can be the perfect solution. Here's how.
How to Use Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter on Windows 10 if Missing or Asking for a PasskeyMicrosoft has always provided a Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter, until now. After Windows 10 build 1809, the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter has been "removed." We use quotes for removed because it is still in Windows and can still be used if you know how.
How to Diagnose USB ProblemsA frequent issue with USB ports is random disconnects and reconnect for no apparent reason. In this guide, we look at possible ways to fix this problem.
Microsoft Edge Is a Complete Remake of the Popular Browser Using ChromiumMicrosoft Edge is a web browser based on the Chromium open source project and other open source software. A first look video available to watch.
How to Fix Ordinal Not Found ErrorsThe 'Ordinal not sound' error message can come accompanied by different messages making diagnostics somewhat tricky. It's usually accompanied by a number (ordinal XXX) and sometimes includes a specific DLL message. Here are the steps you can try to resolve this error.
How to Check Your Computer for the Asus Shadowhammer MalwareAsus Software Update was compromised allowing as many as a half a million users to be infected with the Operation Shadowhammer malware. In this article, we show you how to see if you're affected and how to clean this malware.
How to Fix Incorrect Date or Time With Windows ClockA common, unusual Windows problem is a clock showing the wrong date or time. In a perfect world, your clock should synchronize automatically and always show the exact, correct date and time. Should your Windows clock stop working correctly, here are the steps you can try to resolve the problem.
How to Fix Diskpart Failed to Clear Disk Attributes ErrorThe Diskpart tool is a command-line tool to manage partitions in Windows 10. A known error can appear when making changes to your partitions that states "Diskpart failed to clear disk attributes." In this guide, we look into possible reasons and solutions for this error.
How to Fix Windows Script Host Access Is Disabled on This MachineIn this guide, we look into resolving the" Windows Script Host access is disabled on this machine, Contact your administrator for details" error.
How to Fix Windows Script Host Errors on StartupA Windows Script Host error can often be mistaken for a virus or malware. While that's possible, there are still a few things we can try to stop this error from appearing.
Sorry, This Content Isn't Available Right Now Facebook ErrorOccasionally you might be seeing an error message on Facebook that states "Sorry, this content isn't available right now." You can ignore this message, which is usually temporary.
Documents or Picture Folders Are Read Only After a Windows UpdateIf your Documents or Pictures folders have become read-only following a Windows Update, here's the correct fix.
How to Enable Num Lock on Startup or Reboot If you're finding that your Num Lock (Numeral Lock key) is not on, disabled or just not working, here are some steps to get Num Lock working correctly.
How to Block Windows 7 End of Support MessagesKB4493132 is a Windows 7 Update with one job - to notify you that support ends in January 2020. If you'd like not to be repeatedly warned about the end of support, you can block this update.
Enable or Disable Battery Life Estimated Time Remaining in Windows 10 & 11Here's how to enable the "Estimated Battery Time Remaining" option when you hover your mouse over the battery icon in the taskbar.
How to Fix Power Options Missing or Grayed OutIn this article, we're going to look at two similar problems with Windows Power Options. One is where Power Options can sometimes be overridden and grayed on multiple operating systems. The second issue we will look at is "There are currently no power options available" message in the Start Menu.
How to Transfer Firefox Bookmarks and Settings to Google ChromeRecently we were asked how to move Firefox bookmarks and settings to Google Chrome. Here is a step-by-step guide with screenshots.
Top Scams to Avoid in 2020Anyone who has ever watched Shark Tank has heard the pitches where the person explains how much money is spent in their industry every year. So, here's a stat you don't often hear about - Cybercrime is expected to generate 2 trillion dollars this year as mobile scams continue to increase. Here's a list of what to watch out for this year.
The Specified Service Has Been Marked for Deletion"The Specified Service has been marked for deletion" is an error that can show up when trying to remove a service. There are numerous reason and explanations for getting this error, mostly dependant on what you were doing at the time.
How to Restore Windows Store on Windows 10 & 11Many privacy or tweaking apps will remove the Windows Store, something we prefer ourselves. However, if you suddenly find you need the Windows Store, restoring it is easy. Restoring the Windows Store can also solve error code 0x803FB005.
How to Open Items with Single-Click or Double-Click in Windows 10By default, Windows 10 opens items with a double-click. In this tutorial, we show you how to make items open with a single click.
The Requested Operation Requires ElevationIn this guide, we're looking at the steps you can take to resolve an error that reads "The requested operation requires elevation" typically with a 740 error code and affecting Window 10, 8, and 7.
How to Copy the Path of a File or a Folder to the ClipboardHave you ever found you need to copy a path in File Explorer to the clipboard? When working with Windows, it's not unusual to have to dig through numerous folders and sometimes need to save that path. In reverse, there are times when having a shortcut to files or folders that are buried deep in File Explorer. In this guide, we show you how to copy a file path to your clipboard.
How to Use DuckDuckGo as the Default Search Engine in Google ChromeDuckDuckGo is now available as the default search engine as of Google Chrome version 73. Here's how to set DuckDuckGo as the default and address bar search engine. DuckDuckGo is a privacy-based search engine that allows you to search the web without being tracked. Here's how to make DuckDuckGo your default search engine.
How to Run Windows Updates from Command Line in Windows 10When you run into a situation where Windows Updates isn't working correctly, it's possible to skip hours of troubleshooting and run Windows Updates using Command Prompt or PowerShell so you can at least get the latest updates. Of course, command-line geeks will like to have the option because they can.
How to Fix Gdiplus.Dll Not Found or MissingA Gdiplus.dll missing has been around for a very long time and can be a frustrating problem to solve. In this guide, we'll go over all the known solutions to resolve this error.
How to Use Windows Calculator for Date CalculationThe built-in calculator in Windows 10 is pretty good, and Microsoft keeps improving it. One neat feature often overlooked is the ability to calculate the differences between dates. Here's how that works.
How to View, Save, and Clear Your PowerShell and Command Prompt HistoryBoth the Command Prompt and PowerShell can show you the history of all commands during the current session. In this guide, we show you not only how to how to view your history but other options including how to clear and save your current Command Prompt or PowerShell session.
What Is Windows Setup Remediations and Can I Uninstall It?While uninstalling apps or cleaning your computer, you might have noticed Windows Setup Remediations with a KB number KB4023057. There are no details, vendor information and it can be on your computer for months on end. So, what is Windows Setup Remediations and can you uninstall it?
Windows 10 Will Uninstall and Pause Problematic Windows Updates for 30 DaysMicrosoft has announced that Windows 10 will now uninstall updates that cause problems with your computers running or starting up. Botched Windows Updates have become a headache for both the company and its customers. Hopefully, this will put an end to that.
Windows Photo Viewer Can’t Display This PictureIf you're receiving an error that reads “Windows Photo Viewer can’t display this picture because there might not be enough memory available on your computer,“ here are some steps you can take to resolve this error.
Can I Have Multiple Windows 10 or Microsoft Office Keys On One Email Account?Recently we were asked by someone if they could purchase an additional copy of Windows 10 and authenticate it with the same email (Microsoft Account) they registered another device on. While you'll find conflicting answers on the internet, the answer is yes. Here's the explanation.
Windows Image Acquisition Causing High CPU and Disk UsageWindows Image Acquisition (WIA) is a service that provides image acquisition for scanner and cameras. This service has been known to cause high CPU or hard drive usage when running. Following these steps, we can eliminate this problem.
How to Exclude a File, Folder and More from Windows Defender ScansWindows Defender will scan your computer at regular intervals for problems and scan as requested. You can have Windows Defender skip scanning files, folders, file types, or processes by following these steps.
How to Convert Audio or Video Using VLC Media Player VLC Media Player is a popular replacement for the default Windows Media Player. It can play most audio, and video formats and even streaming. But, did you know VLC is capable of converting videos? Here's how.
GPT (GUID Partition Table) or MBR (Master Boot Record) When Partitioning a Drive?When setting up a new hard drive, you will often have to initialize the disk by choosing either MBR (Master Boot Record) or GPT (GUID Partition Table). In this guide, we will explain the differences between the two, so you can choose the best one for you.
Your System Requires SMB2 or Higher Error on Windows 10SMB2 is a new version of the old Windows filesharing protocol SMB and is used for filesharing on modern Windows hosts. If you're getting an error that says "Your System Requires SMB2 or Higher" it should be an easy fix.
How to Restore a Missing Bluetooth Icon in WindowsWindows 10, 8, and 7 feature a Bluetooth icon usually found in the Taskbar, or notification area. If your Bluetooth icon is missing, try these steps to get it back.
How to Use Driver Verifier Manager to Troubleshoot Driver IssuesMicrosoft includes a little known program called Driver Verifier Manager in every build of Windows since Windows 2000 except for Windows 10 S. Driver Verifier Manager can detect illegal function calls or actions that might corrupt the system for end users and developers. You can also use it to diagnose driver issues with Blue Screen of Deaths or anytime you think there's a driver problem.
How to Use the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool in WindowsWindows 10, 8, and 7 includes the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool that can scan your memory in Basic, Standard or Advanced modes. In this guide, we show you all you need to know about this tool and why we never use it.
Google Chrome Freezes or Hangs at 100% DownloadingMany people have noticed that Google Chrome pauses or seems to freeze or hang at 100% downloaded when downloading a file. This is not a bug or problems as we'll explain in this brief guide.
How to fix a Kernel Security Check Failure Error in Windows 10A Kernel Security Check Failure Error is an error that appears with a blue screen. The issue could be compatibility, corrupted data, memory or even drivers. Here are some steps to resolve this error.
What Is the Sun and ! Icon on the Windows 10 Lock Screen?Recently, a reader mentioned to us that they had a sun and exclamation point icon on their Windows 10 lock screen and asked us if we knew what it was. Here's an explanation and how to stop that notification from appearing.
What Is Regid.1991-06.Com.Microsoft and Can You Delete It?Recently while cleaning house on our Windows 10 computer, we found a folder in ProgramData called regid.1991-06.com. Naturally, we wanted to delete it. But, what is it and can it be deleted?
How to Fix 'We Are Unable to Connect Right Now' on Windows 10 LoginIf you see a message that states "We Are Unable to Connect Right Now. Please check your network and try again later" requiring you to enter your password every time you reboot or startup, then here's how to fix that.
What Is the Rempl Folder and Can I Delete It?Recently, while cleaning up our computer before installing a new hard drive, we discovered a folder in C:\Program Files called rempl. So, what is this and can you delete it?
How to Fix File System Errors in WindowsFile System Errors typically are caused by a few things including bad sectors or corrupt files. In this guide, we look at the steps you can take to resolve these errors including 1073741819, 2018375670, 2147219200, 2147219196, 2147219194, 805305975 to name a few.
How to Automatically Empty the Recycle Bin in Windows 10 & 11The Windows Recycle Bin is designed to save files for a set amount of time, in case you need to recover them. In this guide, we look at two different ways to manage when files are deleted.
How to View, Edit, and Manage Your Google Chrome PasswordsGoogle Chrome has a password manager that can save and even enter all of your passwords for you. Sometimes you need to edit, change, manage or even export your passwords.
How to Remove Quick Access in Windows 10 File ExplorerWe're frequently asked how to remove Quick Access from File Explorer, and we've spent hours reading guides and beating up our computer to figure it out. Here's all we learned. We've also added instructions on removing the 3D Objects folder as well.
How to Change System Protection Storage Size in Windows 10System Protection Storage is the space reserved for System Restore. If you have a drive with limited space, you can set the maximum amount of storage space reserved for System Restore. Here's how.
How to Install Avast as a Lightweight AntivirusWe have so many great choices in free antivirus nowadays, but they almost all go above and beyond basic antivirus protection. For the geek in the know, all we need a lightweight antivirus without all the bloat. In this guide, we will show you how to install Avast Antivirus, so it is a lightweight antivirus solution.
Get More Windows Screen Space With a Smaller TaskbarIf you're looking for more screen real estate you can hide the clock from the Taskbar while implementing a smaller taskbar. Here's how. Yes, it's a bit of a sloppy way to hide the time, but that's all we have. You may need to resize any open Windows before and after making these changes.
How to Take High Resolution Screenshots in Windows 10Have you noticed that screenshots you take on Windows 10 can often look blurry or low-quality? Here are a couple of things you can do to improve the quality of your screenshots.
Fixing Printer Problems on Windows 10 & 11Printer problems are not at all uncommon. In this guide, we look at diagnosing the most common printer problems on Windows 10. Many of these steps will also work for other versions of Windows.
How to Empty the Recycle Bin When Shutting Down Your ComputerThe Windows Recycle bin exists to allow you to restore recently deleted files. If you're like us, we don't use the Recycle Bin and prefer to save space and keep it empty. Since we both reboot and empty the recycle bin about once a week, why not delete the recycle bin when we reboot? Here's how to empty the recycle bin on every reboot.
Run DISM to Repair Windows System Image and Windows Component StoreIn this guide, we're going to look at how to repair the Windows System Image on Windows 10 and 8. You can also apply this fix if SFC /SCANNOW is not available or if a Windows image becomes unserviceable. This guide is for advanced users who understand the Command Prompt and using DISM and switches.
Windows Update Failed to Install Error 0x80240034Another Windows Update error that can appear is Windows Update Failed to Install Error 0x80240034. It might also say WU_E_DOWNLOAD_FAILED followed by Update has failed to download. Here are the steps you can take to resolve these errors.
How to Restore Missing Action Center NotificationsIf you notice that you have notifications in your Action Center (chat bubble in the lower-right), but there are no messages, or you see multiple messages which disappear when Action Center is closed, then you'll be glad to know this is a simple fix.
Windows Update - Not Enough Disk Space - Low Storage Space IssuesDuring Windows Update, it's possible that you run of-of drive space, especially with the major feature updates that happen a few times a year or so. There are numerous ways to free up some space and get around this error.
Windows Error Code 0x80070017 During Installation, Update or System RestoreWindows Error Code 0x80070017 is an error known to appear when installing Windows, Windows Update, or System Restore. Here are the steps you can take to find and fix this problem.
How to Remove the Clock From Windows 10 TaskbarRecently we were asked how to remove the clock on Windows 10 from the taskbar. Luckily, this is pretty easy to do. Here's how.
Using and Diagnosing Problems with Airplane Mode in Windows 10Airplane Mode in Windows 10 can turn off the Internet, Bluetooth, Cellular data, GPS, GNSS, and NFC. In this how-to, we discuss how Airplane Mode works and how to diagnose problems with Airplane Mode.
Reset Task Manager to Default in Windows 10If you've made a lot of changes to your Task Manager and wanted to start all over, here's how you can restore Task Manager to its defaults.
Powershell Cannot Be Loaded Because Running Scripts Is Disabled on This SystemIf you're trying to run a PowerShell script and get an error that says 'Powershell Cannot Be Loaded Because Running Scripts Is Disabled on This System' then you'll be glad to know this is a really simple fix.
How to Stop Microsoft Edge From Opening PDF and HTML FilesYou know the drill. You have your favorite program to open PDf files or even HTML pages, and Microsoft Edge wants to be your daddy. With these two simple steps, we can stop Microsoft Edge from hijacking your PDF and HTML file associations.
Your Windows License Will Expire SoonIf you've received an error message stating "Your Windows license will expire soon. You need to activate Windows in settings" then here are a few ways to solve this error.
How to Install the Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 Offline in Windows 10Windows 10 continues to update the Microsoft .NET Framework, but if you are running apps that were developed for Windows XP, 7, or Vista, you might need the older Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5. Here's how to install 3.5 quickly and easily offline using your Windows DVD or ISO.
How to Enable or Disable a Startup Boot Log in WindowsWindows is capable of keeping a boot log that can track everything that succeeds or fails when Windows boots. This boot log can be handy diagnosing computer problems and is simple to turn on or off. Once enabled, you will be able to find ntbtlog.txt in the root of your windows folder that can be opened and viewed with any text editor.
How to Fix When Windows 10 Turns Itself onIf you've ever found your Windows 10 computer turns itself on, you're not alone. There's an easy way to find out what the culprit is and stop this from happening any more. This guide may also be helpful in Windows 7, 8, and Vista as well.
The Ultimate List of Rundll32 Commands for Windows 10/8/7Rundll32.exe exists to run programs held in DLL files. While Microsoft originally designed rundll32 for internal use, it can also be used to create shortcuts to most Windows settings. Here's one big list of all the known rundll32 commands and how to set them up.
Windows 10 Can’t See Other Computers on NetworkWhen using File Explorer to see other computers on the network, you may run into a problem where Windows 10 can’t see other computers on your network. Here's how to fix that problem. Step 1 is for those using only Windows computers on their network, and Step 2 is for those using who can't see other computers on their network that are running different operating systems including Linux and Mac. A YouTube guide is also available.
How to Fix the Application Was Unable to Start Correctly (0xc0000142)In this guide, we take a look at trying to resolve error code 0xc0000142. This error can show up in almost any app or game but is well known to show up in Microsoft Office, Fortnite, Steam, AutoCAD and many more. Here are the steps you need to take to find and repair this error.
How to Allow or Block a Program in the Windows 10 & 11 FirewallWhile the Windows 10 firewall works fine by itself, there may come a time where you need to allow or block a program manually. Here's how.
How to Save a Text File of All Running Processes With TaskListTaskList is a feature of Windows that can show you a list of all running processes on a local or remote computer. TaskList can also show you the PID, Session Name, Session#, and Mem Usage. Being able to print out this list can be useful for diagnostics. Here's how.
How to Center Your Taskbar Icons in Windows 10Have you ever wanted to move all your Taskbar icons from the left to the middle, similar to the Macintosh Dock? Here's how.
How to Enable or Disable Storage Sense in Windows 10 & 11Storage Sense is the built-in Windows 10 drive cleanup tool to get rid of junk files and empty the recycle bin. If you use a standalone third-party drive cleaner, then you'll want to shit Storage Sense off. Here's how.
Windows 10 Setup Has Failed to Validate the Product KeyInstalling, updating or upgrading Windows 10 sometimes gives a known error that reads "Setup has failed to validate the product key." Many of these errors come from a clean install from an ISO or using the Windows Media Creation Tool. While frustrating, there are a few things you can check to resolve this error.
How to Change Automatic Maintenance TimesWindows 10 will keep your computer running as smoothly as possible on a maintenance schedule that includes software updates, security scanning, and system diagnostics. Maintenance is run daily at a set time and can wake your computer up by default. Here's how to change those settings.
How to Create a Shortcut to Any Windows SettingsWindows has a lot of settings, and it's easy to get lost when trying to find something you frequently use. In this guide, we will show you how to create, and customize, a shortcut to anything you like. After that, we have the ultimate list of Windows settings you can copy and paste to create shortcuts to any Windows settings.
How to Restore Your SSD Performance by Secure Erasing ItIt is now known that you should never do a low-level format on your SSD as that can cause slowdowns. You should do a secure erase which is faster and doesn't wear out the SSD. It puts all the SSD cells back into a null state where they are ready to have data written to them. Here is a specific step-by-step guide to correctly formatting an SSD drive.
Three Ways to Find Out How Many Cores Your CPU HasEver wondered how many cores your processor has? Sometimes software or hardware requirements tell you that you need 2 or 4 cores, for example. Here's how to find out.
Can’t Connect to This Network ErrorCan’t Connect to This Network Error is a relatively common error with Windows 10,8 and 7 when you can't seem to connect to the internet. Luckily, it's usually temporary or an easy fix. Here are the steps to solve this problem.
Windows Installer Not Working ProperlyThe Windows Installer is a service that allows you to install and uninstall programs or applications. If you suddenly can't install or uninstall any programs, here's how to get the Windows Installer working again.
How to Fix Ctrl+Alt+Del Not WorkingCtrl+Alt+Del is something many of us use out of habit, mostly to access Task Manager or to close a not responding application. But, what happens if Ctrl+Alt+Del isn't working? Here are the possible solutions.
How to Stop Windows 10 & 11 From Reinstalling Apps After a Feature UpdateWe've all been there. You get Windows 10 just the way you like it, and a major Windows Update (known as a Feature Update) gets applied, and all of those apps are back. Here's how to stop that from happening again.
Windows 10 Creates an Extra Disk PartitionWindows 10 began creating a new partition starting with the April 1803 update. This drive is a recovery partition and should be left alone, however, we can hide the drive, so you do not see it in File Explorer, Disk Management, etc. Some people also report low disk errors and other problems.
How to Check Your Windows Update History With PowerShellPowerShell geeks will be happy to know that you can check your Windows Update history with PowerShell. Frankly, even less experienced users might appreciate the simplicity of this. Here's how it works.
How to Create a Notification That Your Laptop Battery Is Charged on Windows 10 & 11While there are a few laptop battery notifications available, one that's missing is a notification that the battery is charged. Here's a neat trick to get notified when your battery is charged.
Windows Was Unable to Get a List of Devices From Windows UpdateWindows Was Unable to Get a List of Devices From Windows Update is an error message that often appears when trying to add a printer or scanner. Here's how to fix this error.
How to Enable and Use Diagnostic Data Viewer in Windows 10Windows 10 collect diagnostic data, but as of Windows 10 version 1803 and later, you can now not only turn Diagnostic Data on or off, you can also use Diagnostic Data Viewer to view the information collected and even diagnose some problems. Here's how.
How to Delete or Remove Third-Party Facebook Applications and WebsitesFacebook users find over time that they give a lot of third-party applications and websites access. Over time, this list can become massive. And, as we've learned over time, many of these apps and websites have been busted harvesting your data. Here's how you can clean up your list and get some of your privacy (sanity) back.
How to Disable Those Annoying Website Notification PromptsBy now you're probably about as sick of websites asking to send you notifications as we are? It's not only but to add insult to injury, the bad guys have figured out they can use 'browser push notifications' to deliver malware that you would normally find on a rogue website. Let's shut off these browser notifications once and for all.
How to Fix Blue Screen Errors Mfewfpk.sys or Epfwwfp.sysIf you're getting a blue screen error with either Mfewfpk.sys or Epfwwfp.sys during, or after a Windows 10 upgrade, here's why, and how, to fix it. You may also be receiving the dreaded 'DRIVER IRQL NOT LESS OR EQUAL' error.
How to Add Encrypting File System (EFS) to the Right-Click Context MenuThe Encrypting File System (EFS) on Microsoft Windows is a feature that provides filesystem-level encryption. The technology enables files to be transparently encrypted to protect confidential data from attackers with physical access to the computer. The downside to EFS is that you have to right-click on a file, click Properties then Advanced to encrypt or decrypt. If you use EFS frequently, you can add EFS to your Context Menu (right-click) to simplify the process.
How to Access Windows 10 Administrative Tools in File Explorer (And More)Windows Administrative tools include repair and diagnostic apps that can you can find in the Start Menu, or by searching using the Windows Key + S. Here's a neat trick that allows you to access all the Admin apps right inside File Explorer.
How to Fix 'The Microsoft Store Needs to be Online' ErrorSome people have experienced an error connecting to the Microsoft Store that says "The Microsoft Store Needs to be Online" even when you know you are online. Here are the steps we know of to repair this Windows Store error.
How to Reactivate Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 can lose activation for numerous reasons, especially after a Windows Update. Here are the steps you can take to reactivate Windows.
How to Show Multiple Clocks on WindowsBy default, Windows 7, 8, and 10 will show you a single clock with your current time and zone. Did you know you can display an additional clock on the taskbar? Here's how.
How to Download the Latest Windows 10 & 11 ISO Images Directly in Mozilla FirefoxMicrosoft updates their downloadable ISO images of Windows 10 for every major update. You can download these using the Media Creation Tool. However, here's a neat hack to download the latest ISO images directly using Firefox or any Firefox-based browser.
How to Download the Latest Windows 10 & 11 ISO Images Directly in Google ChromeMicrosoft updates its downloadable ISO images of Windows 10 for every major update. You can download these using the Media Creation Tool. However, here's a neat hack to download the latest ISO images directly using Google Chrome or any Chromium-based browser.
Diagnose Wi-Fi Problems on Windows 10 With Wireless Network ReportDiagnosing Wi-Fi issues can be frustrating, but Windows 10 includes Netsh, which is a command-line utility that can generate a wireless network report in HTML to help you diagnose problems. The report shows the past three days of Wi-Fi activity, all adapters, and more.
Sleep, Hibernate or Shut Down Your PC?Windows offer three ways to 'turn off' your computer depending on your needs. Here we explain all three so you can select the best one for you.
How to Fix Update Queued in SteamGamers want their games and drivers updated at all times. Odds are you've run into the Steam "Update Queued" error and are wondering how to fix the problem and update your games. Here's how.
How to Add or Remove Sleep, Hibernate or Lock to the Start Menu in Windows 10By default, Windows 10 has a shortcut on the Start Menu for Sleep. You can, however, add or remove Sleep, Hibernate or Lock on your Start Menu. Here's how.
Best Drive Cleaner? CCleaner VS Wise Disk Cleaner VS PrivaZerWe are often asked what the best drive cleaner is. Here we look at three of your best choices depending on your needs.
How to Find a Missing NVIDIA Control Panel and Restore the Context Menu or Tray IconThe NVIDIA Control Panel gives NVIDIA video card owners complete control over their video cards. You should be able to find it in the System Tray (bottom-right of your screen) or the Context Menu (right-click on your Desktop). Here's the latest, correct methods to restore your NVIDIA Control Panel.
What Is a 400 Bad Request and How to Fix ItOccasionally you may get a 400 Bad Request error from your web browser. Here's all you need to know about that error.
How to Disable Auto Suggestions in Run and File ExplorerAuto Suggestions allows you to save time when you begin typing in the search bar by showing you other searches you have made. If you'd prefer to shut this off, it here's how to do so with a simple registry edit.
How to Disable Windows 10 & 11 Activity History PermanentlyWith the latest edition of Windows 10 (Redstone 5), it seems that even if you disable Activity History from PC Settings > Privacy > Activity History, Microsoft still collects activity history. With a simple registry tweak, we can permanently disable Activity History.
How to Make the Windows 10 Start Menu Look Like Windows 7If you're missing the old Windows 7 Start Menu, here's how to get it back easily.
How to Adjust Windows 10 Color Filters for the Color BlindAnyone who is color blind will appreciate that Windows 10 has three different preset settings specifically for colorblindness. Here's how to enable them and even a keyboard shortcut to enable or disable your filters on the fly.
How to Stop or Change the Amazon Alexa Flashing Green RingWalking into our office the other day, our Amazon Alexa had a green ring that was spinning or flashing. We assumed good old Alexa was eavesdropping, but when it wouldn't go away, we know something was wrong. Here's what we discovered.
How to Add and Remove 'Install CAB' to the Context Menu in Windows 10If you find yourself installing .cab files regularly, you can add "Install CAB" to your Context Menu. CAB files are provided by Microsoft, most commonly for Windows Updates before they are officially released. With a simple registry hack, we can add or remove this option.
How to Remove the DTS Control Panel From the System TrayAfter a lot of searching, and a little help, we have finally uncovered how to remove the DTS Control Panel from the System Tray. This registry edit applies to any brand name PC using the DTS Control Panel, primarily Hewlett Packard.
How to Disable the Windows 10 Task Scheduler Privacy and Automatic Maintenance Related TasksAdvanced users looking for a little more system boost and privacy can disable the Windows 10 Task Scheduler and Automatic Maintenance tasks.
How to Restore Missing Pin to Start Context Menu in Windows 10When you right-click on a program or shortcut, you should be able to select "Pin to Start" with the Context Menu. If that option disappeared, it's not a big deal, but it is an easy fix.
How to Restore Missing Power Plans or the Add High Performance and Ultimate Performance Power Plans on Windows 10 & 11In the latest Windows 10 builds, if you are installing it on a laptop or tablet device, you might have noticed that you only have the "Balanced" power plan and no longer have the "High performance" or "Power saver" power plan. Users on a desktop, or not having this problem can click on the article at the end of this story to enable the Ultimate Performance Plan.
How to Fix the Brightness Going Back to 50% Issue Upon Reboot in Windows 10Windows 10 currently has an issue with screen brightness going back to 50% after a reboot. While we expect this will be fixed in a future release, here's how to resolve this problem.
Everything You Need to Know About SSD TrimSSD drives are becoming more and more popular and affordable as larger drives are released, smaller drives become affordable. But, we get a lot of questions about SSD drives, TRIM, and defragmentation. SSD drives are not only faster, but they're also virtually maintenance free. Here's all you need to know.
How to Reinstall Windows 10 Without Losing Your FilesReinstalling Windows 10 can take hours to accomplish, and if you haven't backed up your files, they're gone! Windows 10 now includes "Reset This PC," which can reinstall windows without losing all of your personal files or if you want to reset your computer to factory fresh.
How to Enable the Windows Defender Sandbox in Windows 10 & 11Microsoft has made it possible to run Windows Defender, part of Security Essentials, in a sandbox. Microsoft describes the sandbox as "Running Windows Defender Antivirus in a sandbox ensures that in the unlikely event of a compromise, malicious actions are limited to the isolated environment, protecting the rest of the system from harm.
How to Deal With Bad Disk Sectors or Drive ErrorsWe're often asked about how to repair, or what to do when a hard drive has bad sectors. In this article, we'll discuss what bad sectors are and what you can do about it.
How to Unfollow Instagram Followers in BulkInstagram, like many other social media sites, simply don't let you follow, unfollow or even remove your images easily. Sure, you can do it one-by-one if you have the time. In this guide, we're going to show you how to unfollow Instagram followers in bulk.
How to Show or Hide All Apps on Windows 10 Start MenuCustomizing the Windows 10 Start Menu is a very popular Windows 10 modification that is easy to do. For example, it's possible to hide or disable the All Apps in the Start Menu. Here's how.
Google Chrome - An Error Occurred While Checking for UpdatesRecently we received a Google Chrome error while updating. In our case, the error read "An error occurred while checking for updates: The installer failed to uncompress archive. Please download Google Chrome again. (error code 7: 0x80040902: 50 -- system level)." Here's what to do next.
How to Delete User Profiles in Windows 10, 8 and 7User Profiles save all of your preferences and data in a folder under C:Users. Often these folders are hidden. If a user becomes corrupted, then you may need to delete that Profile and start over. There are two ways to do this. Advanced System Properties or the registry for severe problems. Here's how.
Can I Remove the DTS Audio Control Panel?On a newer computer, we noticed that there was an icon called DTS Audio Panel. As we prefer a lean, mean computing machine, we wanted to remove this icon as we have with the Realtek tray icon over the years. Here's what we discovered.
How to Disable Automount of New Drives in Windows 10If you're reading this, you're already aware that Windows will detect when a new drive is connected and auto-assign a drive letter for that drive. Disabling Windows autodetecting new drives is possible. Here's how.
How to Disable Advertising ID for Relevant Ads in Windows 10 & 11Microsoft uses targeted ads to track user activity and show relevant ads while using the Windows Store. Each Windows 10 user has a unique advertising ID. You can easily opt out, however. Here's how.
How to Enable Possibly Unwanted Applications Protection With Windows DefenderBundleware or PUP's (Potentially Unwanted Programs) is something we all try and avoid. Some software companies have gotten very sneaky making it easy to get tricked. While you probably have some security software installed, Windows Defender can try and watch for any of these programs for you. Here's how to enable, or disable the Potentially Unwanted Applications Protection.
How to Delete Some or All System Restore Points on Windows 10 & 11Depending on how System Restore is configured, it can be wasting a lot of space. Luckily, it's easy to delete all of your Restore points, or even everything but the most recent. While we're poking around System Restore, we'll also point out a few other things, like how much space to use and how to enable or disable System Restore entirely.
How to Make a Program Always Run as Administrator And or Compatibility ModeSome programs always require you to Run as Administrator. The simple solution is to right-click and select "Run as administrator). Easy enough. But, what if you have a program you use regularly, and you want to simplify this by having the program always run as administrator. There are a few ways to accomplish this.
How to Remove the Embedded Adobe Flash From Windows 10 and 8.1 Adobe Flash is embedded in web browsers on Windows 10 and 8.1 and nearly impossible to remove. Until now. Here's how to finally rid your computer of Flash.
How to Restore the Close All Tabs Warning in Microsoft EdgeMicrosoft Edge will show a warning prompt “Do you want to close all tabs” by default. Most of us will click on "Always close all tabs." But, what if you change your mind and want to restore this setting? Here's how.
How-to Generate a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) on WindowsThe Blue Screen of Death is the most feared Windows error. The BSOD often comes with a vague error message and requires a pretty good tech to resolve it without formatting. The BSOD is a much more rare occurrence nowadays that only makes seeing it worse. Since your here then you know we can mess with our friends by causing a fake BSOD on their computer. Here's how.
How to Fix Screen Flickering on Windows 10Quite a few people are reporting screen flickering on Windows 10. Odds are this is driver related, often after a Windows Update. Here are the possible steps you can take to resolve this problem.
How to Uninstall Windows 10 UpdatesDue to the millions of possible Windows configurations, all of us have found problems with our computers after a Windows Update. This can lead to hours of frustration often without finding a way to solve your problem. When you know it was a Windows Update that caused the problem, here's how you can uninstall the problematic update.
How to Restore the Classic Theme After Google Chrome 69Google Chrome has released version 69.x featuring a new interface with a better password manager, improved search, better speed, and less memory use. Of course, change is hard for some of us, so if you're not ready, you can quickly go back to the old interface. Here's how.
Virus Scan Failed or Virus Detected ErrorWindows 7, 8, and 10 has a feature known as Attachment Manager designed to protect your computer from unsafe files you may download on the internet. But, what if you can't download a file that you know is safe? Here's how to get around the "virus scan failed" or "virus detected" message.
How to Delete Facebook Posts in Bulk With Chrome or Firefox (Video)If you're anything like us, you've made plenty of dumb Facebook posts, and you'd like to delete them. There are thousands of articles incorrectly explaining how to do this, and we're guessing you've discovered that removing Facebook posts is not as simple as it should be. Here's the one trick you need to know to delete your Facebook posts in bulk.
Windows Live Essentials 2011 and 2012 Error Codes 0x8104000d and 0x800c0006While Windows Live Essentials are no longer supported, people are still installing it. Error codes 0x8104000d and 0x800c0006 can sometimes stop the installation, often accompanied by an error that says "WaitForCatalog." Here are the known solutions to this error.
How to Pause or Delay Windows 10 Feature or Quality UpdatesWindows 10 has two different Windows Updates. The first is Feature updates, also known as semi-annual releases about twice a year. The second is quality updates or cumulative updates and download on Tuesdays, usually once a month. In this tutorial, we explain the differences between the two and how you can pause or delay these updates.
Microsoft Surface or Laptop Won't Turn onIf your Microsoft Surface or laptop doesn't turn on here are the steps you can try to get it running again.
Your Phone was Hacked Extortion ScamAnother new email scam is making the rounds similar to the adult website scam attempting to extort bitcoins from gullible users. This scam will correctly identify two numbers from the last four digits of your phone number which is designed to get your attention and add authenticity.
How To Disable the Windows Store on Windows 10 (Video)Microsoft continues to make removing the Windows Store difficult by changing the registry and Group Policy Editor, so previous methods of disabling the Store won't work. That means thousands of tutorials are available with instructions that no longer work. We have three possibilities for you to consider.
Download May Be Dangerous, so Chrome Has Blocked ItIf you're trying to download a file and getting the error "Download may be dangerous, so Chrome has blocked it" with the only option being Discard, here's how to get around that.
How to Turn Windows Defender Security Center Notifications on or offWindows Defender Security Center will let you know when various actions occur including system scans and protection updates. If you find these as annoying as we do, you can pick and choose what notifications show up. Here's how.
Windows Live Essentials Error Codes 0x8104000d and 0x800c0006Windows Live Essentials allows you to add programs to Windows including Movie Maker, Photo Gallery, OneDrive, Family Safety, Mail, and Writer. However, support ended in January 2017 making downloading and installing Live Essentials tricky. If you must have Live Essentials and are having difficulties, here's all you need to know.
Troubleshooting a Microsoft Sidewinder JoystickWe've been asked how to get a Microsoft Sidewinder joystick working with various operating systems including Windows 10. Here's all we know about troubleshooting a Sidewinder that won't work.
How to Restore Windows Photos Viewer on Windows 10 & 11In this tutorial, we show you how to restore the classic Windows Photo Viewer and set some or all file associations, so the picture, image, or photos you choose open in Windows Photo Viewer.
Avast Was Uninstalled but Still Running (Video)We recently uninstalled Avast Free Antivirus, and you can imagine our surprise when we rebooted, and Avast was still running. Luckily, Avast provides a freeware, portable tool to uninstall Avast thoroughly and completely.
7 Ways to Launch Calculator on Windows 10 & 11We don't know about you, but the built-in Calculator in Windows has always satisfied our basic math needs. If you find that you use Calculator frequently, then here are 7 ways to launch Calculator to fit your needs.
How To Backup and Restore Your DriversBacking up and restoring your drivers can be especially handy when you have a computer where the drivers are no longer available, to rollback when you have a problem, or for mass deployment in a work environment.
How-To Change and Customize the Function Keys on Dell LaptopsDell had changed how their function keys worked when Windows 8.1 was out. If you're a victim of habit like us, you might want to change how your function keys work. Here's how.
How-To Use the Google Chrome Malware Scanner & Cleanup ToolGoogle Chrome is the most popular web browser out there but did you know that it comes with a malware scanner and cleanup tool?
How-To Keep Track of Your Mouse CursorIf you find that you lose track of your mouse pointer, here's a neat little trick to see your cursor anytime.
Microsoft Office Configuration Progress Startup FixAfter installing Microsoft Office, if you continually get a screen on startup showing a configuration progress window indicating that office is being set up. This will help. This startup window can take over a minute each time and is .. well annoying. Here is an easy fix that should take less than a minute.
Extortion Scam Claims to Have Recorded You on Adult WebsitesThe latest scam making the rounds is an extortion scam claiming that they have video and messages of you visiting a pornographic website that they created. Here's what you need to know.
How-To Find Your Exact Wi-Fi Signal StrengthMost of us have become accustomed to the Wi-Fi icon in the system tray to determine our wireless signal strength, but that is just a vague, number of bars. Finding your exact signal strength is possible and often a necessity when diagnosing wireless problems. Here's how.
How-To Fix System Restore Failed and Other System Restore ErrorsSystem Restore can return some errors including "System Restore did not complete successfully, Details: System Restore failed while restoring the directory from the restore point, Source: AppxStaging, Destination: %ProgramFiles%WindowsApps, and An unspecified error occurred during System Restore (0x80070091). Here's how to fix these and other similar errors.
Find Your Bluetooth Version on Windows 10 & 11Finding your Bluetooth version on Windows 10 is a simple process. Here's how.
Disable The "Unsupported Hardware" Message in Windows UpdateSome Intel and AMD processors can give you an error message when trying to run Windows Updates on Windows 7 and 8 that says you have unsupported hardware. Here's how to get around this error and install the latest updates.
File Explorer Cannot Connect to Other Devices on the Local Network Microsoft is aware of a problem that appeared after the Spring update where File Explorer cannot connect to other devices also running the Spring update. The problem is that when you click the Network tab in File Explorer, other devices on the home network do not appear, and you are unable to perform file sharing or access files on other devices on your home network.
How-to Change Rollback Days for Windows 10 Feature UpgradesWhen you install a new feature upgrade on Windows 10, the files are saved on your drive so you can rollback for any number of reasons. Initially, Microsoft kept the rollback files for ten days, but currently, they are kept for 30 days. Here's how you can change how many days these files are saved.
A Newer Version of OneDrive Is InstalledWhether you use OneDrive or not, there's a good chance you might come across an error "A newer version of OneDrive is installed; You need to uninstall it first before installing this version." Here's how to resolve that error.
Windows Store Cache May Be DamagedIf you've received an error message that the Windows Store cache may be damaged, there are a few possible solutions to getting the Windows Store back up and running.
Most Used Apps Setting Disabled or Grayed out on Windows 10Windows 10 can show you most used apps and settings, but if yours stops working and the option to turn it on is grayed out, luckily it's an easy fix.
Fix: Unidentified Network on Windows 7/8/10If, while trying to connect to a network, you receive an error "Unidentified network," there are numerous possible solutions, and we've compiled them all for you.
Video: Windows 10 & 11 Problems You Can Fix Yourself With Included TroubleshootersWindows 10 has made solving problems more accessible than ever with built-in troubleshooters that previously were in the Control Panel, had to be downloaded or didn't exist at all. These Troubleshooters now have their category, are easy to use, and can solve many common problems.
Hide the Windows Defender Security Center Icon on the Windows 10 TaskbarWindows Defender Security Center protects your computer from threats and places a white shield icon with a green check when everything is OK, or a red cross when something needs your attention. If, for some reason, you want to make the tray icon go away, here's how.
Fix: Getting Windows Ready, Don’t Turn off Your ComputerIt's not at all uncommon when upgrading or updating Windows to be stuck staring at a message during reboot that reads "Getting Windows Ready, Don’t Turn off Your Computer." Here's how to fix the problem.
How to Create Shortcuts to Open Control Panel Items in Windows 10 & 11Microsoft has provided shortcuts to access any Control Panel settings directly. These shortcuts can also launch any setting you frequently use. These shortcuts are also useful if your Start Menu isn't working, or a malware infection disabled access to any of your Control Panel settings.
How to Check Your Memory (RAM) Speed, Available Slots and MoreDid you know that all the information you need about your computer's memory, or RAM, can be found right inside Windows? You can find out how many slots are available, memory clock speed, and more.
How to Disable Connected User Experiences and TelemetryThe Connected User Experiences and Telemetry, originally called Diagnostics Tracking or DiagTracK is a service in Windows that runs automatically and sends data to Microsoft. This service manages transmission and of diagnostic and usage information to "improve the experience and quality of the Windows platform." As far as we can tell, this service can safely be disabled to disable the telemetry and even speed up Windows. Here's how.
How to Stop Microsoft Edge From Running in the BackgroundWhile rebooting or using an app like CCleaner, you might have been surprised to find out that Microsoft Edge has been running in the background. Here's how to easily stop Edge from running in the background.
Will Windows 10 Receive Windows Updates if It's Not Activated?While browsing various support forums, we discovered that there's some confusion as to whether or not Windows 10 will download and install Windows updates if the license isn't activated. Here are the facts.
How To Retrieve an Embedded Windows KeyIf you have a computer that didn't come with a digital or printed license key, then odds are it's embedded in your UEFI firmware or BIOS. The beauty of this method is that don't need to know your key, nor activate Windows; it's all done for you. But, if you want to retrieve your Windows key, it's simple. Here's how.
Fix DISM Errors 2, 3, 11, 87, 50, 87, 112, 1726,1393 or 0x800f081fDeployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool is often a requirement before running System File Checker. DISM will use Windows Update to provide any files that are needed to fix corruptions. Without it, System File Checker, or SFC, may not work properly. Should you receive an error while executing DISM, you have a problem. Here's how to fix that.
Disable the Google Chrome Software Reporter ToolGoogle Chrome Software Reporter monitors Google Chrome add-ons and other software that might interfere with it. Some users have reported that the Google Chrome Software Reporter Tool is hogging memory and wish to disable it. Here's how.
How-To Reset TCP/IP or Internet ProtocolResetting your TCP/IP protocol is one of many ways to fix problems with your internet connection including "The page cannot be displayed" error. Here's how.
How To Reset Winsock on Windows 1087Winsock is a technical specification that defines how Windows network software can access network services, especially TCP/IP. If you're having internet issues, resetting Winsock is harmless and could solve your problem.
Network Diagnostics Troubleshooter Reports Problem With Wireless Adapter or Access PointAfter running the Network Diagnostics Troubleshooter, you might have received an error that states "Problem with wireless adapter or access point" with nowhere else to go. Here's what you can do to fix this problem. This article can also be helpful with just about any network connectivity issues.
Windows Defender Turned off or Not WorkingWindows Defender or Windows Defender Security Center, as it's now called, has become the default antivirus protection for many users, ourselves included. In this article, we're going to look at how you can get Windows Defender up and running should it somehow get turned off or stop working.
How to Run Check Disk or Format a Drive From the Command PromptWhen you can see, but can't access a hard drive, it's possible to run diagnostics from the Command Prompt. Typically, this problem occurs with an external drive, but if you boot from a diagnostic app like Ultimate Boot CD, it's possible on any drive.
Windows Defender Is Turned off by Group PolicyWindows Defender is turned off by Group Policy is an error message that requires you to turn Defender back on via Settings, Group Policy, or the Registry depending on how it was turned off. Windows Defender could have been shut off by other security software as well. Here's how to turn it back on.
How To Remove a Language From Windows 10Windows 10 allows you to quickly change languages as well as use languages for different things like display and text. However, removing a language remains a difficult task, and sometimes the Remove option is grayed out. Here's how to get around all that and remove any languages you want.
Please Insert a Disk Into Removable Disk ErrorIf you're getting the error, "Please insert a disk into Removable Disk," and you've already tried removing and inserting the USB drive including trying other USB ports then here are some other solutions.
How-To Repair the Master Boot Record (MBR)The time may come where you need to repair your Master Boot Record or MBR. The MBR can become damaged after a power outage, malware infection or a failing hard drive and often is accompanied with a "Bootmgr is missing Press Ctrl+Alt+Del to restart" error. Here are the steps you can take to repair your MBR.
Windows 10 Computer Won’t Boot After Power OutageIf you left your computer on during a storm or power outage and found that you can't boot, there are a few possible solutions to get your computer started.
Api-Ms-Win-Core-Libraryloader-l1-1-1.Dll Is Missing From Your Computerapi-ms-win-core-libraryloader-l1-1-1.dll is missing from your computer is an error known to appear when upgrading to Windows 10, especially when using the Windows 10 Upgrade Assistant. Luckily, this is a really simple fix. Here's how.
How To Disable or Enable Notifications on Windows 10Windows 10, by default, Windows will show certain notifications, online tips, and videos by default but enabling or disabling these notifications is simple to do. Here's how.
What's the Difference Between PowerShell and PowerShell Core?As you might be aware, the Command-Prompt is being replaced by PowerShell. PowerShell modernizes the Command Prompt as much as possible, but now we also have PowerShell Core. So, what's different about PowerShell and PowerShell Core?
Windows 10 Activation Error Code 0xC004F012There's a handful of known Windows activation error so let's look at error code 0xC004F012. There are two possible messages you are seeing. "Windows can’t activate right now. Try activating again later. If that doesn’t work, contact support. Error code: 0xC004F012" or "The Software Licensing Service reported that the call has failed because the value for the input key was not found." Here are some solutions.
Windows Could Not the Start Peer Networking Grouping Service on Local ComputerToday, we're looking at an error that reads similar or exactly like "Windows could not start the Peer Networking Grouping service on Local Computer. Error 1068: The dependency service or group failed to start." This error can appear on Windows 7, 8 and 10. Here are some possible solutions.
How-to Edit Your Videos With the Microsoft Photo AppSome of you might be surprised to find out the Photos app included with Windows 10 also allows you to edit your videos. Here's all you need to know.
How-To Fix VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERRORNothing worse than a fatal error but luckily VIDEO_DXGKRNL_FATAL_ERROR, usually accompanied with 0xD80310B0, x05F6C614D, 0x680B871E or 0x96D854E5 error codes, should be a simple fix.
Fix: Photos App Opens Blurry Images on Windows 10If you have high-resolution photos but the Windows 10 Photo app is showing them as blurry, then here are some possible solutions.
Automatic/Startup Repair Couldn’t Repair Your PCIn this article, we're going to look at solutions to address an error message with Startup Repair that states - "Automatic/Startup Repair couldn’t repair your PC. Press Advanced options to try other options to repair your PC or Shut Down to turn off your PC," then we have a few possible solutions.
How-To Diagnose Error Codes 0x800701e3 and 0x8007045dHow-To Diagnose Error Codes 0x800701e3 and 0x8007045d
Windows Update Failed to Install With Error 0x80070643Windows error code 0x80070643 is an error that can appear when trying to install Windows Updates. Here are a few possible steps that should solve your problem.
The USB Controller Is in a Failed State or Is Not Currently InstalledIf, while running the windows USB Troubleshooter you receive the error message that "The USB Controller is in a failed state or is not currently installed" then we have a few suggestions to fix the problem.
Error: The System Cannot Find the File SpecifiedThe System Cannot Find the File Specified is an error that can appear due to corrupted files or after installing a new device like a keyboard or mouse. There are a few things to check to fix the problem.
How-To Fix Google Chrome Kill Pages or Wait ErrorWhen Google Chrome returns an error that "The following page(s) have become unresponsive," you're given two choices; "Kill pages" or "Wait." Here's how you can stop seeing this particular error message.
Computer Sound Volume Is Too Low on WindowsIf you have your sound volume all the way up yet your computer volume is too low, there are a few possible problems to get your sound cranking again.
How To Take Full Ownership of Files & Folders on Windows 10 & 11For this article, we're going to show you how to take control of files and folders that you can't open, delete, move or rename. The TrustedInstaller, part of User Account Control protects crucial files so that even Administrators can't open, delete, move or rename. We've also seen this happen with files on external or secondary hard drives that aren't system files including, and especially, photos. Let's solve this annoying problem.
Access Denied, Error Deleting File or FolderIf you're trying to delete a file and getting the "Access Denied" or "Error Deleting File or Folder" there are a few possible reasons why this is happening and how you can get around it.
How To Activate the Hidden Super Administrator Account in Windows 10 & 11From Windows XP back, there was always just one administrator account, but that changed in Windows Vista, 7, 8, and 10 with what many call the hidden Super Administrator account. Activating Super Administrator can be useful for power users, advanced diagnostics, or if you got locked out of your main account.
Access Denied, Please Log in With Administrator Privileges and Try AgainOccasionally you might face an error that read "Access denied, Please log in with administrator privileges and try again" even when you are logged in as administrator. There are a couple of possible fixes for this error.
How-to Mute Tabs in Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft EdgeMany of us use tabs all the time but rarely bother managing some of the many tab options available to us. One such option is the ability to mute tabs with Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge.
How to Fix a Double Login Screen in Windows 10If you suddenly see two login screens in Windows, there's a good chance you recently had some Windows updates as this is a known issue with two possible solutions. Here are those two solutions.
What Are the $GetCurrent and $WINDOWS.~BT Folders and How to Delete ThemIf you've noticed you have two folders named $GetCurrent and $WINDOWS.~BT then you might want to know what they are for and if you can delete them. Here's all you need to know.
There Were Problems Installing Some UpdatesWindows Updates can give numerous errors including "Updates "failed" and "There were problems installing some updates." You may also get all sorts of error codes including 0x80073712, 0x800705B4, 0x80004005, 0x8024402F, 0x80070002, 0x80070643, 0x80070003, 0x8024200B, 0x80070422, 0x80070020. With the Updates failed error, those error codes don't mean anything because the solution is the same for all of them. Here's what you need to know.
How-To Fix Google Chrome Black Screen IssuesNothing is more frustrating than a black screen with Google Chrome because you can't see anything to repair it! That said, all is not lost. Try these ideas.
AppData, Local, LocalLow, and Roaming Folders ExplainedIf you have Show hidden items available, you may have noticed the Local, LocalLow, and Roaming folders under Quick access or Users > UserName > AppData and wondered what they're used for. Here's the story.
How To Find, Listen, and Delete What Amazon Alexa Has RecordedAlexa listens anytime you talk, waiting to respond when needed. Because of this, there are often numerous recordings saved, some that are not related to you calling on Alexa. In this tutorial, we show you how to find, listen and delete any Alexa voice recordings.
How-To Customize Process Information Viewed in Task ManagerTask Manager is a tool that many of us use to diagnose computer problems but did you know that you can add new views and remove the current ones? It's easy to do and makes Task Manager work better for you.
How To Stop iTunes From Automatically OpeningiTunes is an occasionally necessary evil for those of us who use an iPhone and Windows. Personally, we prefer to install iTunes, do what we need to do to sync our music and playlists, then uninstall it. But, if you need iTunes on a regular basis, it's easy to stop iTunes from automatically opening every time you plug in your phone.
5 Websites to Play Classic DOS Games in Your Browser for FreeIn the mood for some retro games but don't want to tackle emulators? We don't blame you. Getting an emulator working correctly is for the hardcore gaming geek. They're confusing to set up and in many cases, not legal. Why waste your time when you can easily play your favorite 80's and 90's games right in your browser?
The Program Can’t Start Because MSVCP140.Dll Is Missing From Your ComputerMSVCP140.dll Is Missing error can be frustrating because you're often told it's missing, but not shown how to fix the problem. The reason for the MSVCP140.dll error is because you don't have the correct Visual C++ libraries installed for the program causing the error and it's simple to fix.
Enable Windows Defender Application Guard for Microsoft Edge in Windows 10 & 11Ransomware is nothing new to most of us, but protecting ourselves can often be overwhelming. While many people like to knock Microsoft Edge (formerly Internet Explorer), they have come leaps and bounds from what you expect. One of the features that have been improved is the Windows Defender Application Guard, a way to surf the web safely. Currently, it's off by default but easy to turn on. Here's how.
Internet Explorer Crashes Due to iertutil.dll ErrorWhile most of us prefer to use Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox or even Microsoft Edge, some organizations still have to use Internet Explorer for compatibility with older applications. One error you may run into is a DLL error "iertutil.dll" that should be an easy fix.
The Program Can't Start Because bcrypt.dll Is MissingBcrypt.dll is part of the Microsoft Windows Cryptographic Primitives Library, a general purpose, software-based, cryptographic module. BCRYPT.DLL provides cryptographic services in Windows Vista through Windows 10 components and application. Getting a bcrypt.dll error is rare (congratulations) but relatively easy to solve.
How To Flush the Windows DNS CacheClearing your DNS cache can be one of many steps when diagnosing an internet problem. It's simple to do. Here's how.
Your Connection Was Interrupted - A Network Change Was Detected - ERR_NETWORK_CHANGEDIf you've received the "Your Connection Was Interrupted, a Network Change Was Detected, ERR_NETWORK_CHANGED" error, there are a few simple fixes for the problem.
File Explorer or Windows Explorer Crashes or FreezesIs your Windows Explorer File Explorer crashing or freezing especially if you right-click on it? The problem might be an often overlooked issue with one of your Context Menu items
How-To Enable or Disable DHCP in WindowsDynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is a client/server protocol that automatically provides an Internet Protocol (IP) host with its IP address and other related configuration information such as the subnet mask and default gateway. If you're looking at advanced internet connection troubleshooting, you may need to enable or disable DHCP.
How to Disable the Windows KeyGamers and others might occasionally find the Windows Key to be a nuisance, but it can be disabled in more than one way to suit your needs. Here's how.
How-To Use Disk Error CheckingDisk Error Checking was designed to test for, and fix, sectors, lost clusters, and system errors. Used in conjunction with the System File Checker most drive problems can be solved, or diagnosed without needing other utilities. Here's how to use Disk Error Checking.
File Is Not a Valid 32-Bit ApplicationOccasionally you might receive a "File Is Not a Valid 32-Bit Application" error when trying to run an application. There are a few reasons why you might receive this error.
Potential Windows Update Database Error DetectedPotential Windows Update Database error detected is an error seen on Windows 10 that sometimes appears when running the Windows Update Troubleshooter. Sadly, this means you're dealing with a problem on top of a problem. Here are some steps to resolve this problem.
How to Properly Use Microsoft System File Checker in Windows 11 and 10Microsoft System File Checker is a useful, built-in utility that can scan for, and restore, corrupted files in Windows. It is often used and recommended by techs and advanced users, however, it's relatively simple to use. Here's all you need to know to properly use System File Checker or Sfc /Scannow.
Windows Shell Common DLL Has Stopped WorkingDLL (Dynamic Link Libraries) are an external part of an app that loads into memory when used. If that fails for some reason and a program does not load, one particular error that appears is "Windows Shell Common DLL has stopped working." Here are the know fixes to make this one go away.
Windows Can’t Get the Network Settings From the RouterWindows can’t get the Network Settings from the router is an error known to appear using various internet connected items including your printer, hotspot, and more. Here are a few things to try to fix this error.
How to Remove the 3D Objects Folders From Windows 10Are the 3D Objects folders bothering you? It was bothering us but mostly because there's no delete or hide option. 3D Objects can be found in File Explorer under This PC as well as under users in File Explorer. Here's how to remove them.
Selected GPT Formatted Disk Partition Is Not of Type PARTITION_BASIC_DATA_GUIDWindows 10 has made disk partitioning easier, but it's not without a few issues. With that comes this particular, long error message - "The selected GPT formatted disk contains a partition which is not of type PARTITION_BASIC_DATA_GUID and is both preceded and followed by a partition type PARTITION_BASIC_DATA_GUID."
How-To Delete Pending Windows UpdatesIf you need to remove pending Windows updates, for example after disabling Driver Updates, it's a relatively easy fix. Here's how.
How To Stop Windows Updates From Downloading Drivers on Windows 10 & 11Do you want to stop Windows Updates from downloading drivers? We don't blame you. they're often outdated and can even replace your newer drivers. Most tutorials suggest editing the registry or using Group Policy editor. The modified registry didn't work for us, and Group Policy Editor leaves a loud warning message in red that set off our OCD. It doesn't need to be that difficult. Here's all you need to do.
How-to Transfer Your Windows 10 License to Another ComputerIf you want to transfer your Windows license to another computer, it's possible to do so if you purchased Windows. If you bought a PC with Windows installed, your license is tied to the hardware inside your computer and not transferable. Here's how.
Enable Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc) in Windows 10 & 11 Home EditionIf you're reading this, then you already know Group Policy Editor does not work in Windows 10 Home Edition. Until now.
Windows Couldn’t Automatically Bind the IP Protocol Stack to the Network AdapterTalk about a mouthful and an annoying error to fix - "There might be a problem with the driver for the Ethernet/Wi-Fi adapter. Windows couldn’t automatically bind the IP protocol stack to the network adapter." Let's do this.
Extract, Expand or Create CAB Files With the Command-LineCabinet Files or CAB files are an archive and compression format from Microsoft not dissimilar to ZIP or RAR files, for example. The easiest way to open a CAB file is with an app like WinZip, PeaZip, or 7-Zip. If you don't have a third-party app, Windows includes three command-line tools to expand, make, or extract CAB files.
How-To Register or Unregister DLL and OCX FilesBuilt into Windows 7, 8, and 10 is Regsvr32, a command-line app that can be used to register or unregister OLE (Object Linking and Embedding) controls including DLL and ActiveX controls in the Windows registry. In this article, we'll show you how to register and unregister a DLL file to fix Windows problems.
Uninstall This App Now Because It Isn't Compatible With Windows 10With millions of possible configurations, some people have experienced problems upgrading to Windows 10. In this article, we're looking at the "Uninstall This App Now Because It Isn't Compatible With Windows 10" error. The most common error code here is Oxc1900208. The fix is a bit complicated, made easy with a one-click batch and PowerShell download.
Make Scrollbars Always Visible on Windows 10 & 11As part of the Microsoft Fluent Design System, scrollbars can now be shown all the time. By default, your scrollbars are always hidden. Here's how to make scrollbars always visible.
Mozilla Thunderbird FreezesWe've been using Mozilla Thunderbird for many years without issue until recently when Thunderbird started freezing. There are numerous causes for Thunderbird freezing. However, we do believe that Thunderbird freezes due to 100% CPU usage. Let's take a look at some possible fixes we discovered while troubleshooting this issue.
How to Reset Your BIOS to Optimal, Default or Factory SettingsIf your computer is having issues that you believe are BIOS related, then resetting your BIOS to the factory defaults may be required. Doing so is very simple, only complicated by the many different motherboard layouts and where you can find the reset options.
Windows SmartScreen Can’t Be Reached Right NowSmartScreen is a cloud-based anti-phishing and anti-malware component included in Windows 8, Windows 10, Internet Explorer, Microsoft Edge, and Outlook.com. If SmartScreen is down, then you won't be able to download anything. This error can be frustrating, and there are numerous possible fixes for this problem.
Your Device Is at Risk Because It’s out of Date & Missing Important Security & Quality UpdatesIf you're updating Windows and receive an Update Status error, it should be a simple fix. The entire message reads "There were some problems installing updates, but we'll try again later. If you keep seeing this and want to search the web or contact support for information, this may help (0x8024402f)." Your actual error code might be different, but these fixes still apply. After that, you might see "Your device is at risk because it’s out of date and missing important security and quality updates. Let's get you back on track so Windows can run more securely."
Windows Media Creation Tool Error 0x80072F76Error code 0x80072F76-0x20017 appears for some when they downloaded and ran the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool. The entire message reads 'There was a problem running this tool. We’re not sure what happened, but we’re unable to run this tool on your PC. If you continue experiencing problems, reference the error code when contacting customer support. Error code: 0x80072F76 – 0x20017.' This is a simple fix. Here's how.
Remove Windows 10, 8 and 8.1 Built-In Apps Using PowerShellPower users, server admins, IT, and techs can remove Windows 10 built-in apps using PowerShell. The advantage is that you can remove these apps from the default install.wim in your Windows 10 ISO allowing you to have a ready to install Windows 10 ISO without the built-in apps.
How-To Fix a Green Screen When Playing Videos in Firefox or Google ChromeAs if the blue screen of death wasn't enough, Google Chrome can sometimes give you a green screen while watching videos in any Chrome or Firefox powered web browser. Luckily, it's almost always an easy fix.
How to Fix Unable to Connect to NVIDIA ErrorRarely, an error might appear for NVIDIA graphic card owners stating "Unable to Connect to NVIDIA" and often followed by the additional message to "check your internet connection." Fixing this error is often simple. Here's how.
How-To Fix a BAD_POOL_CALLER ErrorBAD_POOL_CALLER is a blue screen of death (BSOD) can often be traced to a driver problem. Typically there's an address, memory sharing or IRQL issue here. Let's take a look at some possibilities.
Windows Could Not Update the Computer’s Boot ConfigurationWhile updating Windows, some people have experienced an error that says "Windows Could Not Update the Computer’s Boot Configuration. Installation Cannot Proceed." This error is most common when upgrading Windows 7-10.
How-to Fix Windows 10 Update Error Code 0x8024a105Error code 0x8024a105 is one that usually appears during Windows Updates. The full error reads "There were problems downloading some updates, but we’ll try again later. If you keep seeing this, try searching the web or contacting support for help. This error code might help: (0x8024a105)." Luckily, this one is often an easy fix.
Remove Windows 10 Apps Using PowerShellWindows 10, as you know, comes with over 20 built-in apps. Odds are you use a few, or none of these apps. One of the best ways to remove the built-in apps is to use PowerShell. The best part about it is that you can always restore these apps from the Windows Store should you change your mind later.
How to Manage Startup Apps in Settings on Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 now has a section called Startup Apps that can show you the impact on your computer and allow you to enable or disable each startup item with a single click.
How to Find and Repair Stuck or Dead Pixels on an LCD MonitorStuck or dead pixels can be a real nuisance. The good news is that there are plenty of free apps that can help you identify problem pixels and unstick them if possible. Here's how.
How to Add Timeline or TaskView to the Windows 10 Context MenuDid you know you could add the Timeline and TaskView to your context menu? With this registry hack, you can add TaskView to Windows 10 1709 or earlier or Timeline to Windows 10 1803 or later. Here's how.
E (or Another) Drive Appears After the Windows 10 April UpdateWe're hearing about people suddenly seeing a drive E after updating from the Windows April update. This is your normally hidden recovery partition. You can ignore it, or we can hide it again. Here's how.
What Is Windows 10 Timeline and How to Use ItTimeline is a new feature added to Windows 10 version 1803. Timeline keeps track of what you're doing including your browsers, folders, apps, activities and more. You can stop and resume seamlessly at any time from any device and even sync your activities to the cloud.
Timeline Feature Not Working in Windows 10Timeline is a new feature added to Windows 10 version 1803. Timeline keeps track of many of your activities including your browsers, folders, apps, and more. You can stop and resume seamlessly at any time from any device. But, what happens if Timeline isn't working? Here are a few suggestions.
Windows Defender Security Center - Sign in to Microsoft for Enhanced SecurityAfter a recent Windows Update (1803 in this case), Windows Defender Security Center began asking us to log in to our Microsoft Account for Enhanced Security. So, what sort of important enhanced security do you get by signing in?
Windows 10 1803 Update Now Available - How to Get It NowMany of us have been waiting for Windows 10 version 1803. 1803 was originally due out in April (they still call it the April 2018 update) and it will be available for everyone on May 8th, but you don't need to wait. This guide also applies to any major Windows update that is expected to release typically in the next week.
Manage, Allow, And Change Pop-Up Options in Google ChromePop-Up blockers are indeed nothing new. Google Chrome allows you to make changes and add or remove websites that can deliver pop-ups. These settings are essential especially if you automatically blocked or permitted pop-ups at one point but have now changed your mind. The settings are easy to manage, but a bit buried in Chrome. Here's how to manage your pop-up settings.
How to Enable Windows Sonic Surround Sound on Windows 10Windows 10 now has a mode called Sonic Surround Sound. Sonic is a surround sound emulator for those using headphones that lack surround sound. This surround sound emulation is fantastic for X-Box users, PC gamers, audiophiles, movie buffs and anyone who use headphones. It's also a free replacement for Dolby Atmos. Sonic is disabled in Windows 10 by default, but it's only one click away.
Bring Back the Old Windows Defender Style on Windows 10If you miss the look of the older Windows Defender, you can bring it back by just creating a shortcut.
PowerShell Data Execution Policies ExplainedPowerShell Data Execution Policies determine what, and how, PowerShell scripts can be executed. It can be as simple as allowing or blocking all PowerShell scripts, or you can go as far as determining what can be run for a particular computer, group, or even the current session. Here's what you need to know.
Safely Convert Your Master Boot Record (MBR) to GUID Partition Table (GPT) with MBR2GPT.EXEIf you didn't know Microsoft now includes MBR2GPT.exe allowing you to convert a disk from the Master Boot Record (MBR) to the GUID Partition Table (GPT) partition style without modifying or deleting data on the drive. It's easy and quick to do although there are some ifs, ands, and buts. Here's all you need to know including what we've experienced and what Microsoft advises.
This Program Can't Start Because xinput1_3.Dll or d3dx9_43.Dll Is MissingThis program can't start because xinput1_3.dll or d3dx9_43.dll is missing is almost always a problem with DirectX 9.0, or you don't have DirectX 9.0 installed. Here's how to fix the error.
How to Fix OneDrive Problems in Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7OneDrive problems can often be fixed with a reset of the full client or a quick registry fix. A reset can be accomplished without losing any data. Common issues include OneDrive not starting, crashing or the OneDrive icon is missing.
How to Make Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox Run Like New AgainOver time, like anything, your Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome web browsers may seem sluggish. You can always uninstall Firefox or Chrome and reinstall or let's try a few easy to do steps to get Firefox back to that new out of the box feel.
What Is the EFSTMPWP Folder and Can You Delete It?If you noticed a folder named EFSTMPWP, you might be wondering where it came from and if you can delete it. Here's all you need to know.
How to Fix Battery Icon Missing on Taskbar or Power Button Setting Grayed outYou may have found that your taskbar battery icon is gone and if you found the setting to re-enable it, you discovered that your power button setting is grayed out, so you can't re-enable the icon. Both are easy to fix. Here's how.
Cannot Start Microsoft Outlook. The Command Line Argument Is Not ValidIf you're receiving an error that states "Cannot Start Microsoft Outlook. The Command Line Argument Is Not Valid. Verify the Switch You Are Using" then there's a couple of possible quick fixes.
How to See Your Network Adapter Speed in Windows 10Part of any proper internet diagnostics is knowing just what network speed your card is capable of. Sometimes you want to know. Here's how to see your current possible maximum network adapter speed.
How to Update Your Steam Privacy SettingsValve Software has updated their privacy settings for Steam to give you more control over how your information is viewed by your friends and the community. Because it's always a good idea to check your privacy settings occasionally, here's how to update your Steam settings.
How to Fix d3dx9_30.Dll Is Missing or Not Found ErrorsD3dx9_30.Dll Is missing or not found errors can appear in many different formats, often with games. D3dx9_30.Dll refers to DirectX 9.0, and the error means there's a problem, or you don't have DirectX 9.0 installed. Here's how to fix the error.
7 Ways to Show, Hide, or Diagnose the 'Show Ribbon Option' in Windows 10 File ExplorerFile Explorer can hide or show the Ribbon, a command bar with many useful shortcuts including open, edit, cut, copy, create a folder, select all, and more. Admins usually decide if they need the ribbon the first time File Explorer is run, so it's easy to forget the Ribbon is there if you chose not to use it initially. Here's how to hide or bring back the File Explorer ribbon.
How to Securely Delete Files in Windows 10 With PowerShell and CipherMost Windows users know when you delete a file that it's not truly "gone." Deleted files initially go to the recycle bin and once removed from there they can be recovered from your hard drive assuming the file hasn't been overwritten. Windows has a little-known utility that can securely wipe free space including files, folders, or your entire drive. Here's how to use it.
What Is the $SysReset Folder and Can I Delete It in Windows 10 & 11?If you noticed a folder called $SysReset on your hard drive, odds are at some point you performed a refresh or system reset. The folder was created and contains various files including log files that can help you determine the problem when a refresh or system reset failed.
How to Use Storage Sense to Delete Junk Files in Windows 10 AutomaticallyWhile many of us geeky types will use third-party apps including Wise Disk Cleaner, CCleaner, or Privacer to clean out junk files, most of us want our computers to work without hassle. One way to do this is to use the built-in disk cleaner, now called Storage Sense in Windows 10.
Disable the Windows Defender Security Center Taskbar IconThere are quite a few tips and tricks for Windows Defender, but if you're looking to disable the tray icon, it's one of the easier tweaks to do for anyone. Here's how.
Some Updates Were Canceled When Running Windows UpdateIf you're receiving an error message that some Windows Updates were canceled, you're not alone. The message also states that "We’ll keep trying in case new updates become available." We've had this happen a few times, and it should be a simple fix.
Windows 10 Apps and Start Menu Won't OpenIf suddenly your Windows 10 app and Start button aren't working, there are a few reasons possible solutions to get you up and running again.
Solved: The Application Has Failed to Start Because Its Side-By-Side Configuration Is Incorrect ErrorToday we're looking at the error known as "The application has failed to start because its side-by-side configuration is incorrect." It concludes with "Please see the application event log or use the command-line sxstrace.exe tool for more details." is a problematic error that can occur in many games and apps and even Microsoft Office, but it's an easy fix.
Three Ways to Turn Peek on or off on Windows 10 Peek allows you to quickly preview your desktop by hovering your mouse over that tiny rectangle in the lower right corner as well as when you hover your mouse over any taskbar buttons. You can turn Peek on and off easily. Here's how.
What Is a Portable App and Why You Should Use ThemWhen downloading applications or games, you might see the option to download a portable version. Portable files help keep your computer running better and are easier to install and uninstall. Here's how they work.
The Program Cant Start Because VCRUNTIME140.DLL Is Missing from Your ComputerVCRUNTIME140.DLL Is Missing error can be frustrating because you're often told it's missing, but not shown how to fix the problem. The reason for the VCRUNTIME140.DLL error is because you don't have the correct Visual C++ libraries installed for the program causing the error and it's simple to fix.
Cortana 'Ask Me Anything' Not WorkingCortana has a known bug that randomly occurs when using "Ask Me Anything." There are a few troubleshooting steps that you can take to try and resolve this error.
How to Restore Default File AssociationsIf your file associations have gotten out of hand, Microsoft makes it easy to reset everything or even individually. For this article, we're going to look at how easy it is to reset all of your file associations.
How to Manage or Delete All the Apps, Websites and Games That Facebook Can AccessFollowing the Cambridge Analytica fiasco, you might be wondering what apps can access your data. Anyone concerned about their privacy should stop and look to see where your Facebook data is going. Anyone who's used Facebook for years might be surprised to see how many apps have access to your data. Here's how to manage them.
How to Tell If Your Facebook Data Was Harvested by Cambridge AnalyticaWe all now know that Facebook has been harvesting data through Cambridge Analytica and the This is your Digital Life app. You might be wondering if you were affected and the good news is Facebook now can tell you with just one click.
Windows Spotlight Lock Screen is Stuck on the Same PictureIf your lock screen is always showing the same picture even though you are using Windows Spotlight, even after you've logged in, it should be a simple fix. Here's how.
How to Use Letters in the All Apps ScreenHere's another tip we have overlooked for a long time now. Clicking on any letter in the Start, All Apps brings up the list of apps by letter. This is a handy shortcut for anyone with a ton of apps.
Paint Shop Pro Says "Browse for Folder - Please Choose a User Directory"Paint Shop Pro is known to break after a Windows Update by asking you to select a folder. The problem is most common with Paint Shop Pro 7. Uninstalling and reinstalling does not work, but there are two possible fixes.
How to Fix a Blurry Display on Windows 10Some people report a blurry display on Windows 10 and aren't sure of the cause. There's a couple of possible fixes for a blurry display. Let's take a look.
How to Add Color to Your Start, Taskbar, Action Center, and Title BarsWindows 10 offers many customization options including the ability to change the default colors. While you can spend hours tweaking or even using third-party apps, there's a simple way to add some color without wasting time or messing up your Windows.
How to Get Back the Old Volume Mixer in Windows 10 & 11Windows 10 changed many things including the Volume Control. If you miss the old Volume Control from windows 7 and 8, you can get it back with this simple registry hack. Also available as downloadable registry files.
How to Download Windows Insider Preview Builds Including Windows 11If you've heard geeks talking about the Windows Insider program and previewing the latest builds of Windows, you might have thought this was a secret club that you needed to be invited to, but it's available for anyone. We've never done it before ourselves until now, so come along for the ride with us and we try it for the first time.
How to Enable the Windows Insider Program When Grayed OutIf you were looking to try out the latest Insider Preview Builds but can't because you can't click on the "Get Started" button, you probably, at one time, used a third-party privacy or telemetry app that disabled installing Windows Insider Preview Builds. Enabling the Windows Insider Preview is easy, here's how.
How to Turn on the Windows 10 & 11 Ultimate Performance Power PlanSince the release of the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update, the only power plan you had available was the Balanced Power Plan. As of the Windows 10 Spring Creators Update you can now choose from Balanced, High Performance, Power Saver, and the hidden Ultimate Performance plan. Here's how to unhide the Windows 10 Ultimate Performance Power Plan.
What Are Desktop.Ini Files and Can You Delete or Hide Them?Typically, you will find a file called desktop.ini in your folders. Let's take a look at what they are, if you can delete them, and how you can hide them.
How to Customize the Windows 10 TaskbarWindows 10 now allows for you to make a lot of changes to suit your personal preferences on how the taskbar works. The Taskbar can be cluttered or hide items depending on your needs. Let's get your Taskbar working for you.
How to Customize the Windows 10 Start MenuThe Windows 10 Start Menu and Taskbar are two areas of Windows we look at every day and get used to using it as is. Microsoft has made it easier to make changes and get your Start Menu and Taskbar working for you. Here's how.
Configure When and How Windows Updates Are DeliveredThe general rule on Windows Updates is always to update. There are a few settings available to configure Windows Updates in the Control Panel, but there are also some hidden settings that give you more control of when and how updates are delivered. Let's take a look.
Netflix - We Need Your Help Resolving an Issue With Your Netflix IDA Netflix email scam is making the rounds trying to trick you into giving up your Netflix billing information. The email title reads ["Netflix] - We Need Your Help Resolving an Issue With Your Netflix ID." As always, let's take a look at how to spot this scam.
Aw, Snap! Something Went Wrong While Displaying This WebpageGoogle Chrome users will occasionally bump into an error message that states "Aw, Snap! Something Went Wrong While Displaying This Webpage." Here's a look at some possible solutions.
Disable Driver Signature Enforcement on Windows 8 and 10Both Windows 8 and Windows 10 include a driver security feature known as "driver signature enforcement" that only allows drivers to be installed that are digitally signed. Using the command prompt, you can quickly turn driver signature enforcement on or off. Here's how.
Disable Quick Access, Recent Files, Favorite Folders, and Other File Explorer TipsBy default, File Explorer will open Quick Access (links to your Desktop, Downloads, Documents, Pictures, etc.) and also store your recent folders and files. While not perfect, there are some File Explorer options that allow you to use File Explorer the way you want.
How to Disable the Windows 10 Login ScreenMany Windows 10 users are prompted when starting, restarting, or coming out of sleep mode to enter a user name or password, even when they don't have one. While only mildly irritating, it's also as easy as 1, 2, 3 to fix. Here's how.
Everything You Need to Know About Virtual Kidnapping SchemesYou've probably heard about the virtual kidnapping schemes and wondered how they work and what you can do to avoid them. Here's everything we know.
How to Disable Live Photos on Your iPhoneLive Photos are a neat feature that allows you to see any photo as a brief video by holding your finger on any photo. But, it does take up 3-5MB additionally per photo causing a problem for those who have smaller capacity iPhones. It's simple to disable. Here's how.
How to Fix a Screwed Up Right-Click Context MenuRecently we discovered an issue with the context menu (when you right-click on something) screwing up. There are a few reasons this could happen and fixing it pretty simple. Here's how.
Computer Won't Detect Your Wi-Fi AdapterIf your Wi-Fi adapter has disappeared, it can be frustrating to locate the cause and get it working. Using an ethernet cable is not an option for most people nowadays. Here are some ways to fix a missing Wi-Fi adapter.
How to Download All Your Facebook DataIf you're considering deleting Facebook, or want to back up all of your photos, videos, posts, and more it can be easily done in just a few steps. Here's how.
Increase Productivity With These Time-Saving Keyboard ShortcutsKeyboard shortcuts are a huge time saver. Rather than fumbling around between the keyboard and mouse, or using the context menu, these shortcuts can save you plenty of time. These keyboard shortcuts are some of the ones that we find ourselves using frequently, are easy to use, and speed up productivity.
Windows 10 Won't Open JPG or JPEG FilesWindows 10, by default, will open JPG or JPEG files with your favorite photo viewer or the Windows 10 Photo app whenever you click any JPG file. If you find your JPG files are no longer being opened as you like, there are a few things to check. We should mention that this also applies to almost any type of image or file type as well.
HomeGroup to Be Removed From Windows 10 - How to Share Your Printers and FilesYou might have heard that Microsoft is removing HomeGroup from Windows 10 in the Spring update. What's this mean for you? Nothing. You can still share files and printers easily.
Do I Need to Format My Hard Drive When Doing a Fresh Install of Windows?When dealing with the dreaded fresh install of Windows people often wonder if they need to format their drives. The short answer is no and here's why.
Windows 10 Missing Check for Updates ButtonAs you know, Windows Updates are essential and should be done as soon as possible. But, what happens if there's no "Check for Updates" in Windows Updates? There are a few possibilities here, let's take a look.
How to Delete the SoftwareDistribution Folder in Windows 10 & 11On your PC there's a folder called Software Distribution that stores temporary files during Windows Updates. Under typical situations, you should leave this folder alone. However, if you have an issue with a stuck Windows Updates, then deleting this folder can often resolve those problems. Here's how.
Windows Update Error Code 0x8024402f in Windows 10Windows Update Error code 0x8024402f appears for a couple of reasons, but Windows does not explain what or why the problem is occurring. There's a couple of possibilities that should solve your problem.
Manage Your Default Apps in Windows 10Windows 10 has settings that decide what app opens what file type. For example, when you open a photo, you most likely expect your favorite graphics program to open that photo. However, sometimes one of your apps suddenly is being opened by a Windows 10 app. We've seen this occur after a large Windows Update or when installing a similar app. It's easy to take back control of your apps. Here's how.
Switching Between Tablet Mode and Desktop ModeWe've read numerous reports from people who either suddenly find large desktop icons, a missing taskbar or vice versa. Some people just say that their desktop isn't recognizable anymore. The fix is simple.
Fixing Random Blue Screens (BSoD) With Different ErrorsThere's only one thing we have more than a blue screen, also known as the Blue Screen of Death or BSoD, and that's a Blue Screen of Death that gives you different error codes making it difficult to understand what the problem is. Here's what you can try.
Trojan:Win32/Critet.BS Might Just Be BSRecently, we noticed a lot of programs, including Tweaking.Com Windows Repair being flagged as infected with the Win32/Critet.BS. The only problem here is Microsoft is the only one flagging it, and they don't bother telling you what it is.
Rebuild Icon Cache and Clear Thumbnail CacheIf you're looking at icons that are slow to load, blank, fuzzy, or even flashing, you might need to rebuild your icon cache or clear your thumbnail cache. Here's how.
Restore a Missing DirectX DLL FileRecently we showed you how to Fix D3dx9_35.dll errors, and one suggestion was to extract the DLL file from DirectX and copy to your computer to fix the problem. Here's how to do just that. Note that these same steps apply to all versions of Windows whether you're using Windows XP, 7, Vista, 8, or 10.
How to Find a DLL File in the DirectX Redistributable DownloadIf you are getting a DirectX file missing error, it can be a bit overwhelming and confusing to find a safe DLL file. Avoid those DLL websites because you can easily get the right DLL file yourself safely and easily. Here's how.
How to Fix D3dx9_35.dll ErrorsD3dx9_35.dll errors are typically related to DirectX 9 and can be simple to fix. The errors typically show up in older operating systems (Windows XP, 7, Vista, and 8) or when playing older games that require DirectX 9. Here's how to fix it.
How to Find Your Router Login and PasswordEvery so often one needs to log into their router to rename it or maybe even make some tweaks to the settings. It's easy enough to with little risk even for novice users. If this is your first time logging into your router, you'll need the default login and password. Here's how.
Code 54 - This Device Has Failed and Is Undergoing a ResetIf you're receiving the Code 53 - This Device Has Been Reserved for Use by the Windows Kernel Debugger for the Duration of This Boot Session, here's how you can fix it.
Code 53 - This Device Has Been Reserved for Use by the Windows Kernel Debugger for the Duration of This Boot SessionIf you're receiving the Code 53 - This Device Has Been Reserved for Use by the Windows Kernel Debugger for the Duration of This Boot Session, here's how you can fix it.
Code 52 - Windows Cannot Verify the Digital Signature for the Drivers Required for This DeviceIf you're receiving the Code 51 - Windows Cannot Verify the Digital Signature for the Drivers Required for This Device, here's how you can fix it.
Code 51 - This Device Is Currently Waiting on Another Device or Set of Devices to StartIf you're receiving the Code 51 - This Device Is Currently Waiting on Another Device or Set of Devices to Start error, here's how you can fix it.
Code 50 - Windows Cannot Apply All of the Properties for This DeviceIf you're receiving the Code 50 - Windows cannot apply all of the properties for this device error, here's how you can fix it.
Code 49 - Windows Cannot Start New Hardware Devices Because the System Hive Is Too Large (Exceeds the Registry Size Limit)If you're receiving the Code 49 - Windows Cannot Start New Hardware Devices Because the System Hive Is Too Large (Exceeds the Registry Size Limit) error, here's how you can fix it.
Code 48 - The Software for This Device Has Been Blocked From Starting Because It Is Known to Have Problems With Windows. Contact the Hardware Vendor for a New DriverIf you're receiving the Code 48 - The Software for This Device Has Been Blocked From Starting Because It Is Known to Have Problems With Windows. Contact the Hardware Vendor for a New Driver error, here's how you can fix it. Windows is most likely reporting that you have hardware lacking drivers for your current operating system.
Code 47 - Windows Cannot Use This Hardware Device Because It Has Been Prepared for Safe Removal, but It Has Not Been Removed From the Computer. To Fix This Problem, Unplug This Device From Your Computer and Then Plug It in AgainIf you're receiving the Code 47 - Windows Cannot Use This Hardware Device Because It Has Been Prepared for Safe Removal, but It Has Not Been Removed From the Computer. To Fix This Problem, Unplug This Device From Your Computer and Then Plug It in Again error, here's how you can fix it.
Code 46 - Windows Cannot Gain Access to This Hardware Device Because the Operating System Is in the Process of Shutting Down. The Hardware Device Should Work Correctly Next Time You Start Your ComputerIf you're receiving the Code 46 - Windows Cannot Gain Access to This Hardware Device Because the Operating System Is in the Process of Shutting Down. The Hardware Device Should Work Correctly Next Time You Start Your Computer error, here's how you can fix it.
Code 45 - Currently, This Hardware Device Is Not Connected to the Computer. To Fix This Problem, Reconnect This Hardware Device to the ComputerIf you're receiving the Code 45 - Currently, This Hardware Device Is Not Connected to the Computer. To Fix This Problem, Reconnect This Hardware Device to the Computer error, here's how you can fix it.
Code 44 - An Application or Service Has Shut Down This Hardware DeviceIf you're receiving the Code 44 - An Application or Service Has Shut Down This Hardware Device error, here's how you can fix it. For error code 44, you'll want to restart your computer. Click Start, click Shut Down, and then select Restart.
Code 43 - Windows Has Stopped This Device Because It Has Reported ProblemsIf you're receiving the Code 43 - Windows Has Stopped This Device Because It Has Reported Problems error, here's how you can fix it. This error message is straightforward. One of the drivers is telling Windows there's a problem. We need to update drivers or remove the device and allow Windows to redetect and install it again.
Code 42 - Windows Cannot Load the Device Driver for This Hardware Because There Is a Duplicate Device Already Running in the SystemIf you're receiving the Code 42 - Windows Cannot Load the Device Driver for This Hardware Because There Is a Duplicate Device Already Running in the System, here's how you can fix it.
Code 41 - Windows Successfully Loaded the Device Driver for This Hardware but Cannot Find the Hardware DeviceIf you're receiving the Code 41 - Windows Successfully Loaded the Device Driver for This Hardware but Cannot Find the Hardware Device error, here's how you can fix it.
Code 40 - Windows Cannot Access This Hardware Because Its Service Key Information in the Registry Is Missing or Recorded IncorrectlyIf you're receiving the Code 40 - Windows Cannot Access This Hardware Because Its Service Key Information in the Registry Is Missing or Recorded Incorrectly error, here's how you can fix it.
Code 39 - Windows Cannot Load the Device Driver for This Hardware. The Driver May Be Corrupted or MissingIf you're receiving the Code 39 - Windows Cannot Load the Device Driver for This Hardware. The Driver May Be Corrupted or Missing error, here's how you can fix it.
Code 38 - Windows Cannot Load the Device Driver for This Hardware Because a Previous Instance of the Device Driver Is Still in MemoryIf you're receiving the Code 37 - Windows Cannot Initialize the Device Driver for This Hardware, here's how you can fix it. Code 37 appears when a driver attempts to start but the driver is already running.
Code 37 - Windows Cannot Initialize the Device Driver for This HardwareIf you're receiving the Code 37 - Windows Cannot Initialize the Device Driver for This Hardware, here's how you can fix it. Code 37 appears when a driver returns a failure when it executed the DriverEntry routine.
Code 36 - This Device Is Requesting a PCI Interrupt but Is Configured for an ISA Interrupt (or Vice Versa). Please Use the Computer's System Setup Program to Reconfigure the Interrupt for This DeviceIf you're receiving the Code 36 - This Device Is Requesting a PCI Interrupt but Is Configured for an ISA Interrupt (or Vice Versa). Please Use the Computer's System Setup Program to Reconfigure the Interrupt for This Device error, here's how you can fix it.
Code 35 - Your Compute's System Firmware Does Not Include Enough Information to Properly Configure and Use This DeviceIf you're receiving the Code 35 - Your Computer's System Firmware Does Not Include Enough Information to Properly Configure and Use This Device. To Use This Device, Contact Your Computer Manufacturer to Obtain a Firmware or BIOS Update error, here's how you can fix it.
Code 33 - Windows Cannot Determine the Settings for This DeviceIf you're receiving the Code 33 - Windows Cannot Determine the Settings for This Device error, here's how you can fix it.
Code 34 - Windows Cannot Determine Which Resources Are Required for This DeviceIf you're receiving the Code 33 - Windows Cannot Determine the Settings for This Device. Consult the Documentation That Came With This Device and Use the Resource Tab to Set the Configuration error, here's how you can fix it.
Code 32 - A Driver (Service) for This Device Has Been Disabled f you're receiving the Code 32 - [b]A Driver (Service) for This Device Has Been Disabled [/b], here's how you can fix it.
Code 31 - This Device Is Not Working Properly Because Windows Cannot Load the Drivers Required for This DeviceIf you're receiving the Code 31 - This Device Is Not Working Properly Because Windows Cannot Load the Drivers Required for This Device, here's how you can fix it.
Code 29 - This Device Is Disabled Because the Firmware of the Device Did Not Give It the Required ResourcesIf you're receiving the Code 29 - This Device Is Disabled Because the Firmware of the Device Did Not Give It the Required Resources, here's how you can fix it.
Code 28 - The Drivers for This Device Are Not InstalledIf you're receiving the Code 28 - The Drivers for This Device Are Not Installed error, here's how you can fix it.
Code 24: This Device Is Not Present, Is Not Working Properly, or Does Not Have All Its Drivers InstalledIf you're receiving the Code 24 - This Device Is Not Present, Is Not Working Properly, or Does Not Have All Its Drivers Installed, here's how you can fix it.
Code 22 - This Device Is DisabledIf you've received the error message Code 22 - This Device Is Disabled, here's how you can fix it.
Code 21 - Windows Is Removing This DeviceIf you've received the error message Code 21 - Windows Is Removing This Device, here's how you can fix it. This is supposed to be a temporary error message that should go away while Windows is removing a device and should go away on its own.
Code 19: Windows Cannot Start This Hardware Device Because Its Configuration Information Is Incomplete or DamagedIf you're receiving the Code 19 - Windows Cannot Start This Hardware Device Because Its Configuration Information (in the Registry) Is Incomplete or Damaged, here's how you can fix it. This error can result if more than one service is defined for a device, there is a failure opening the service key, or the driver name cannot be obtained from the service key.
Code 18 - Reinstall the Drivers for This DeviceIf you're receiving the Code 18 - Reinstall the drivers for this device, here's how you can fix it.
Code 16 - Windows Cannot Identify All the Resources This Device UsesIf you're receiving the Code 16 - Windows cannot identify all the resources this device uses. To specify additional resources for this device, click the Resources tab and fill in the missing settings. Check your hardware documentation to find out what settings to use. error, here's how you can fix it.
Code 14 - This Device Cannot Work Properly Until You Restart Your Computer. To Restart Your Computer Now, Click Restart Computer.If you're receiving the Code 14 - This Device Cannot Work Properly Until You Restart Your Computer. To Restart Your Computer Now, Click Restart Computer error, here's how you can fix it. We feel like we found a secret level here. While most of the Microsoft error codes are like a foreign language, only harder, this error message gets it right. Not only does the error message tell you to restart, it tells you to restart three times.
Code 12: This Device Cannot Find Enough Free Resources That It Can Use. If You Want to Use This Device, You Will Need to Disable One of the Other Devices on This System.If you're receiving the Code 12 - This Device Cannot Find Enough Free Resources That It Can Use. If You Want to Use This Device, You Will Need to Disable One of the Other Devices on This System error, here's how you can fix it.
Code 10 - This Device Cannot Start. Try Upgrading the Device Drivers for This DeviceIf you're receiving the Code 10 - This device cannot start error, here's how you can fix it.
Code 9 - Windows Cannot Identify This Hardware Because It Does Not Have a Valid Hardware Identification NumberIf you're receiving the Code 9 - Windows cannot identify this hardware because it does not have a valid hardware identification number. For assistance, contact the hardware manufacturer error, here's how you can fix it.
Code 3 - The Driver for This Device Might Be Corrupted, or Your System May Be Running Low on Memory or Other ResourcesIf you're receiving the Code 2 - The driver for this device might be corrupted, or your system may be running low on memory or other resources, here's how you can fix it.
Code 1 - This Device Is Not Configured CorrectlyIf you're receiving the Code 1 - This Device Is Not Configured Correctly error, here's how you can fix it. Many of these errors are hardware problems and can be fixed by just updating your device drivers.
Desktop Icons Loading Slowly in WindowsIf your desktop icons are loading slowly, there are a few possible causes. Typically, you see this problem when your computer boots and the desktop icons are grey, or blank, for a few minutes and sometimes your screen will flicker.
Solved: Error Code 20006 - StartService Failed 1058 Recently while launching Ghost Recon Wildlands we were met with an error that that said Error Code: 20006 (Cannot create service StartServiceFailed: 1058). After reading all over the internet, and some trial and error, we have the solution, no thanks to EasyAntiCheat who don't even list the error.
Everything You Need to Know About Pagefile.sysThose who find themselves low on disk space may be considering removing the very large pagefile.sys. What is pagefile.sys and what are your options?
How to Install the Latest Version of DirectXIf your games are giving you trouble, you may need to update to the latest version of DirectX. It's simple to check what version you have and update your DirectX. Here's how.
Here Are All the Device Manager Error Codes and SolutionsThere are thousands of possible Windows error codes, their meanings, and solutions. Device Manager on its own has 38 possible error codes. Here are a list of all known Device Manager error codes and their solutions for all versions of Windows from Windows 7 through Windows 10.
Error: Can't Reach Oculus Runtime ServiceIf your Oculus Rift has been receiving the "Can't Reach Oculus Runtime Service" error, there's a fix available for it. While your Oculus Right typically updates on its own, this error, first discovered in March of 2018, requires a manual patch.
Windows 10 Full Screen Games Are Distorted or ScrambledAre your full-screen games appearing blurry, or with numerous colors? Some might call it a rainbow or acid trip. Regardless, it's ruining game time and easy to fix.
Change the Default Quiet Hours in Windows 10 Home, Pro, and EnterpriseHave you wondered why you couldn't change the default times that Quiet Hours turns on and off? So were we and with a little Group Policy or registry editing, we can take back control of when Quiet Hours turns on and off.
Disable Some or All Notifications on Windows 10Getting distracted by Windows 10 notifications? The good news is that you can shut off some, or all notifications easily. Here's how.
Windows Shuts Down When a USB Device Is Plugged InIf your computer is shutting down when you plug in any USB device, there are a handful of things you can try to address the problem including Update Your USB Drivers, Update or Remove and Reinstall Your USB Devices, Check Your Power Supply, and more.
Failed – Virus Detected on Windows 10 & 11If you receive a message that reads [b]Download Failed – Virus Detected[/b] when downloading a file with Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Internet Explorer 11, or Microsoft Edge, you might wonder why and what you can do about it. Download Failed – Virus Detected means that Windows Defender, part of Windows Defender Security Center, has determined a file that you were downloading is a potential virus.
How to Take Screenshots in Windows 10 and 11Windows has long supported taking screenshots with the Print SCRN button as well as some combinations of Print SCRN and other keys, but Windows 10 gives you more options than ever before to take a screenshot however you want, or need. Here are all of your screenshot options using Windows 10 or Windows 11.
How to Enable or Disable Hardware Acceleration in WindowsHardware acceleration is how tasks are offloaded to devices and hardware. As you might know, most computers send the work to the processor first, then to other hardware, specifically sound and video cards. Hardware acceleration was more prominent in the Windows 7, 8, and Vista days.
Everything You Need to Know About Windows Data Execution Prevention or DEPData Execution Prevention or DEP is a feature introduced in Windows XP Service Pack 2 that is still part of Windows today. In short, it's a hardware and software technology designed to monitor memory to stop malicious code from running. A more straightforward way to describe DEP is that it monitors all processes and services and stops a program if it isn't running properly in memory.
Mouse Cursor Is Blue With Night Mode OnRecently we started using Night Mode 24\7 and appreciate the reduced strain on our eyes. However, we were slightly annoyed by the mouse cursor being blue.
How to Fix Windows 10 Night Light Not Working ProperlyRecently, after staring at our screen for eight hours writing articles like this one, we noticed significant eye strain. But we thought we had Windows 10 Night Light on. It turns out that Night Light wasn't on even though we left it on 24-7. Here are the steps we took to fix Night Light not working correctly.
How to Perform a Clean Boot in WindowsA Clean Boot is very similar to Safe Mode but specifically designed to narrow down a problem by allowing a certain number of drivers or startup programs and eliminate them until you find the problem. It's time-consuming and not a lot of fun. If you were told to boot in Clean Boot, it should be because you're looking for a specific problem.
The Action Cannot Be Completed Because the File Is Open in COM SurrogateThe error message "The Action Cannot Be Completed Because the File Is Open in COM Surrogate" has been known to pop up while attempting to rename a file. Here are a few things to check.
How to Show or Hide Hidden Files, Folders, or Drives in Windows 10 & 11Microsoft intentionally hides any system files from the end-user to protect the operating system from being damaged. For most of us, this is probably best. If the time comes when you need to see hidden files, it's simple to do.
How to Boot into Safe Mode on Windows 7, 8, 10 & 11Booting into safe mode to diagnose issues is a simple, well-known problem solver. Just reboot and tap or hold the F8 key after you see the black and white BIOS screen but before the Windows Splash screen and choose "Safe Mode" or "Safe Mode with Networking." But, what if that doesn't work?
The Action Can’t Be Completed Because the File Is Open in Another ProgramThe Action Can’t Be Completed Because the File Is Open in Another Program is an error that appears in Windows typically when trying to delete a file that is still in use in Windows. There are a few ways that you can put an end to this error.
What to Do and Why Someone Calls You Saying That You Called ThemWhat to Do and Why Someone Calls You Saying That You Called Them. Hopefully, this helps you understand spoofing and unrecognized phone calls. The only way we can stop, or at least slow this down, is to spread the word that you shouldn't answer or call back phone numbers you don't recognize.
Action Center Does Not Open on Windows 10Action Center is a feature of Windows 10 that notifies you about apps and settings on your device. It also provides shortcuts to settings, airplane mode, mobile hotspots, night light, tablet mode networking, location and more.
How to Report Online Scams, Spam Emails and MoreSpam, scams, phishing, drive-by downloads, malware, tech-support scams. Sadly, these are words we're all familiar with. While we can't report everything, imagine if we all just reported one a week? It only takes minutes, and we can do our part to protect our security on the internet and help others.
Remove or Reinstall Internet Explorer 11 From Windows 10There are numerous reasons to remove Internet Explorer 11, but since you're already here, we won't waste your time discussing why. Removing Internet Explorer 11 is easy to do. Here's how.
Windows Media Player Won’t OpenIf you're having trouble getting Windows Media Player to open, there are a few possibilities and easy fixes including the built-in troubleshooter, reregistering DLL files or using a third-party app like Fix WMP/ Let's get your Windows Media Player going again. You can try each step, in any order and see if Windows Media Player opens after each.
How to Troubleshoot Windows Media Player IssuesWindows Media Player has been known to not work correctly including problems with your music library, DVD or Blu-Ray playback to settings not working. Most of your Windows Media Player problems can be easily fixed by trying these fixes.
Disable Windows Defender Temporarily on Windows 10Windows Defender has become a capable antivirus and antimalware app for Windows 10, giving most end users the protection they need without finding a replacement antivirus. That said, sometimes you need to disable it briefly, for example, to download a file that Defender blocks. Disabling Defender temporarily is easy to do. Here's how.
Solved: Windows Store Does Not Open - Missing PurgeCachesIf your Windows Store isn't working and you're getting the error message ms-windows-store:PurgeCaches, we have a solution. One possible difference with this fix over the other is that you might have been told by someone to execute wsreset.exe from the command line.
Solved: You'll Need a New App to Open This Ms-Default-LocationRecently we ran into a Microsoft error that said: "You'll Need a New App to Open This Ms-Default-Location." We hoped we found a secret level, but indeed all we found was another cryptic Microsoft error message. We discovered this error would appear when Windows wants to open an app from the Windows Store, but you have deleted Windows Store or the app required.
How to Set Your Default Location in Windows 10 & 11For those who allow their location to be used in Windows 10, you may have noticed that sometimes certain websites or apps don't seem to know exactly where you are and when they do, it can be slow. That's because by default Windows 10 may have your location but not your address. Here's how to manage your location settings.
Enable, Disable, Manage, Delete or Create a System Restore PointSystem Restore is designed to back up your system files, installed apps, Windows Registry, and system settings. It's not perfect, but it's easy to use and one of many ways to back up your computer should problems arise. It's always a good idea to spend a few minutes with System Restore, so it works right for your particular needs. Here's how.
How to Back up or Restore the Windows RegistryYou've heard it before. Backup your registry before you "fill in the blank." While Windows can be a complicated beast, backing up your registry is really simple. When using the registry editor it's also known as Importing or Exporting. If you're about to edit the registry, it's only a couple of steps, so there's no reason not to. Here's how.
Stop Windows 10 From Automatically Deleting the Thumbnail CacheRecently we showed you how to rebuild the Windows icon cache when thumbnails are broken, but it's also possible to stop Windows from deleting your icon cache ever again. Here's how.
Block Unwanted Pop-ups in Firefox, Pale Moon, WaterfoxWhile pop-up blocking is anything but new, occasionally some websites have figured out how to get around this in Firefox based browsers. Stopping these, or any other pop-ups is easy.
NVIDIA Display Driver Has Stopped Responding and Has RecoveredNothing more fun than diagnosing a display driver problem. In this case, we're looking at the "Display Driver Has Stopped Responding and Has Recovered" followed by the longer, not helpful, "Display driver NVIDIA Windows Kernel Mode Driver, Version xxx.xx stopped responding and has successfully recovered."
How to Rebuild the Windows Icon Cache When Thumbnails or Icons Aren't WorkingMost of us are used to seeing icons for many things especially our photos. But, what happens when suddenly there are no icons there? All of the icons you see are stored in a file called IconCache.db and if it became corrupted or damaged, you'd want to rebuild your icon cache. There are two things you can try.
How to Install .NET Framework 3.5 on Windows 10, Windows 8.1, and Windows 8In some cases, mainly when installing an older app, you might be prompted to install an older version of the .NET framework, often 3.5. Typically, the latest version of the Microsoft. NET Framework is backward compatible, but not always with version 3.5.
Troubleshooting Microsoft .NET Framework Installations and UninstallationsThe Microsoft .Net Framework is required by many applications and should be installed and up to date with Windows Update. When you have a problem, Windows will give you a summary as to what's wrong, but not how to fix the problem. Should your installation be blocked using the web or offline installers, there are many possible explanations why.
How to Fix Msvcr100.Dll Is Missing or Not FoundMsvcr100.Dll Is Missing error can be frustrating because you're often told it's missing, but not shown how to fix the problem. The reason for the msvcr100.dll error is because you don't have the correct Visual C++ libraries installed for the program causing the error and it's simple to fix.You could also get a 0xc000007b error.
Disable Fluent Design Effects In Windows 10Windows 10 gets a lot of the colors and effects you see with Fluent Design System, introduced in 2017. The idea behind it is to add Light, Depth, Motion, Material, and Scale to improve the end user experience.
How to Enable Night Light Mode in Windows 10 & 11 to Reduce Eye StrainEye strain has become a known issue in Windows, and it is well known now that the blue light emitted from your monitor is the cause. Here's a simple and quick way to reduce the blue colors on your screen with Windows 10 night light mode, formally called blue light.
How to Create a Test Account on FacebookFacebook allows you to create a test account without the need for an email, but it's only just for testing purposes. You can also create a free email account you're never going to use and use that to create a bogus Facebook account. Don't post, don't add friends, don't edit anything, after all, who cares?
How to Reset Network Settings in Windows 10 & 11Networking problems are never fun but when all else fails you might need to reset your network settings. Windows 10 makes it simple to do.
How to Access Developer Settings, Diagnostics and More in Microsoft EdgeMicrosoft Edge has numerous options, but the more advanced stuff is buried out of sight, often for a good reason. If you need to access Developer Settings, Diagnostics, Screen Capture, Networking and even Previews it's simple to do.
How to Add Settings to the Context Menu in Windows 10Control Panel as Context Menu is a registry hack from MajorGeeks that adds the control panel to your right mouse click context menu when used on the desktop. Once completed you will now see "Settings" when you right-click on the desktop area.
How to Prevent Installing Extensions in Microsoft EdgeThere is always a security risk allowing anyone to just install any extensions they like, especially on a network or corporate environment. You can block all extensions from being installed with the Group Policy Editor or with a simple registry modification.
What are Vulkan RunTime Libraries?Vulkan RunTime Libraries, sometimes referred to as Vulkan Run time Libraries or VulkanRT, was installed by your display card manufacturer. Most likely you have an NVIDIA, Intel or AMD graphics card and it is a 3D graphics API that is similar to OpenGL and DirectX.
How to Fix Driver Problems by Rolling Back a Device DriverDriver issues can be a real hassle, but often they are simple to fix. Driver problems can include mouse lag, no sound or system tray icons disappearing for your audio and video drivers. These issues often appear after a Windows Update. Here's how to fix your driver problems.
Hide or Block Neighbor's Wi-Fi Networks on WindowsHide or Block Neighbor's Wi-Fi Networks on Windows. When you click on Internet Access or Network in the system tray, you might see numerous neighbor's Wi-Fi networks. The more populated the area, the worse this can get. Currently, Windows has no way to hide these in the Control Panel, but it can be done from a Command-Prompt.
Add "Copy As Path' to the Right-Click or Context MenuThe option to Copy as Path in your Context Menu (or right mouse click) is a built-into Windows 8 and 10 as an extended command meaning it appears only if you press shift and right click. If you use Copy as Path frequently, you can put in permanently into the Context Menu with a simple registry tweak.
Every Known Windows Terminal, Command Prompt and PowerShell CommandCommand Prompt, sometimes referred to as CMD or even DOS is a command line interpreter built into Windows. It is mostly used to diagnose or troubleshoot problems in Windows. Most end users will never use these commands, but if the day ever comes, here is every command we know of, in alphabetical order.
Limit the Bandwidth Windows Updates Uses in Windows 10Limit the Bandwidth Windows Updates Uses in Windows 10
Windows Can't Activate - Try Again Later - Error Code 0xC004F034There's a known error in Windows that appears as [b]Windows Can't Activate. Try Again Later. Error Code 0xC004F034[/b] and the cause is due to a change in the activation process by Microsoft affecting specific Windows installations. It should be easy to fix. Here's how.
Here Are All the Copy, Paste, General, File Explorer and Windows Logo Keyboard Shortcuts Available in WindowsAnyone who's used Windows for years has discovered keyboard shortcuts. These shortcuts save time and make life easier. While most people learn to copy and paste early on (CTRL+C, CTRL+V) there are many other shortcuts that you might not have heard of.
How to Restore Default Shell Folders (Music, Videos, Pictures, Documents)How to Restore Default Shell Folders (Music, Videos, Pictures, Documents)
Unknown Software Exception (0xe0434352) Occurred in the Application at Location 0x77312c1a Unknown Software Exception (0xe0434352) Occurred in the Application at Location 0x77312c1a can appear when shutting down your computer and for a couple of reasons.
Windows Keeps Asking to Activate RepeatedlyWindows Keeps Asking to Activate Repeatedly
This One Trick Could Fix All Your Windows ProblemsThis One Trick Could Fix All Your Windows Problems
How to Change Your Default Browser in Windows 10 & 11Change Your Default Browser in Windows 10
Find Out How Facebook Categorizes Your Political Leanings and How To Disable ItSo, maybe you liked something on a friend's page that was right or left slanted or perhaps it was just done by outright declaring your liberal or conservatism - we don't really care either way but Facebook certainly does.
Can't Create System Image Because Next and Cancel Buttons Are Grayed OutRecently while trying to create a system image on a new expandable hard drive, we were unable to create a system image. The next and cancel buttons remain unclickable. Everything on the hard drive is working correctly otherwise. We should tell you now that you might want to backup your data. We need to play with the partitions, and that comes with a risk of losing all data.
Manage Your Privacy on Windows 10Manage Your Privacy on Windows 10
What Version of Windows 10 Do I Have?What Version of Windows 10 Do I Have?
Speed up Your Computer by Disabling IndexingThere are many ways to speed up a slow computer. One example is to modify or disable Indexing depending on how often you use the search feature. There are two ways to do this. The first method allows you to define folders that remain indexed, and the second method disables indexing on an entire drive.
How to Close a Program and Diagnose Problems With Task ManagerHow to Close a Program and Diagnose Problems With Task Manager
How To Run Windows Terminal, PowerShell or the Command Prompt as AdministratorThe Elevated Command Prompt or PowerShell, also known as Run as Administrator, allows users to execute commands from DOS as Administrator. Almost all commands executed from DOS should be done from an elevated command prompt. Sometimes you may be told to run the command prompt as administrator. They are the same thing, and it's simple to do. Here's how.
Which Anti-Malware App Is Best and Can It Run Alongside My AntivirusWhich Anti-Malware App Is Best and Can It Run Alongside My Anti-Virus - 2018 Edition
What's the Best Antivirus and Is Windows Security Good Enough in 2021?It's time to answer the #1 most asked question on our support forums - What's the best antivirus and is Windows Defender good enough?
Block Notifications, Camera, Microphone, and Location in Google ChromeBlock Notifications, Camera, Microphone, and Location in Google Chrome
Block Notifications, Camera, Microphone, and Location in FirefoxBlock Notifications and More in Firefox
Reset Your Local Account Password In Windows 10Reset Local Account Password In Windows 10
Enable or Disable Auto-Correct and Highlight Misspelled Words In Windows 10Auto-Correct is available in Windows 10 to help you spell words correctly but if you don't use auto-correct, or use a third-party program then disabling it is easy. Here's how.
Video: How to Disable Video Tips In Windows 10Windows 10 now includes how-to videos found in various places in the Control Panel.
How to Reset or Repair Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge or OperaHow to Reset or Repair Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft Edge
Fix: Desktop Icons Jump Back to Original Location When MovedFix: Desktop Icons Jump Back to Original Location When Moved
Fix APC_INDEX_MISMATCH Blue Screen in Windows 10Fix APC_INDEX_MISMATCH Blue Screen in Windows 10
Troubleshooting Windows 10 Blue Screen ErrorsTroubleshooting Windows 10 Blue Screen Errors
Speed up Firefox Quantum by Disabling Telemetry and Data CollectionFirefox Quantum Developer Edition features the latest changes and development tools you need to build for the web, but it can be slow thanks to telemetry and data collection. Here's how you can disable them and speed Quantum up.
Fix: Google Chrome Is Unresponsive - Relaunch Now"Google Chrome is unresponsive, relaunch now?" is an error that can happen when trying to open a link from an external program in Google Chrome. We've bumped into it using email clients including Mozilla Thunderbird and here's how we solved it.
How to Prevent Virtual Reality Motion Sickness or NauseaVirtual Reality motion sickness is real and very common among Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, and Sony PlayStation VR owners. With virtual reality in its current state, how do you deal with motion sickness? For most people, it turns out that playing more in moderation will allow you to build up a tolerance.
How to Avoid Craigslist PayPal ScamsCraigslist scammers have been using PayPal to trick sellers for years. Here's the one trick you need to use to avoid being scammed. We've been using Craigslist quite a bit in the past year, and we are almost amused at the attempts to scam us. Typically, you'll get a text message asking if your item is still available. Often, the text message will have something odd about it.
Enable OpenSSH in Windows 10Enable OpenSSH in Windows 10
Disable the Windows 10 Lock Screen (Video)Disable the Windows 10 Lock Screen
How to Delete the Windows.old Folder from Windows 10During large Windows Upgrades, including the Fall Creators Update, a large Windows.old folder is left behind, often leaving over 20GB behind. The good news is that it can be safely deleted, but not by...
How to Delete the Windows10Upgrade FolderIf you recently upgraded your Windows, you might have noticed a folder called Windows10Upgrade, and it can be safely removed. Here's how. Most likely you recently used the Windows 10 Update Ass...
Remove the "Share" Context Menu in Windows 10With the latest Windows 10, we're sure you've noticed some changes. Today we're going to show you how to Remove the "Share" Context Menu in Windows 10.
Remove the "Give Access to" Context Menu in Windows 10Remove the Give Access to Context Menu in Windows 10
How to Get Command Prompt Back on the Windows 10 Power User MenuYou may have noticed a slight change in the Windows 10 power user menu - Command Prompt was replaced by PowerShell. There will be no pros or cons on either just a quick little bit of info to put Comma...
Superb Battery Saving Trick for Your Android PhoneA friend of MajorGeeks, Snappy Phoenix, sent us in this simple to do tweak to improve battery life on many Android phones by disabling many background apps that you might not be aware are running. This was tested on a Galaxy S8.
How to Protect Against Identity Theft Following the Equifax BreachHow to Protect Against Identity Theft Following the Equifax Breach
Turn Windows Welcome Experience Page on or off in Windows 10 & 11Turn Windows Welcome Experience Page on or off in Windows 10
What Is Windows SmartScreen and How to Disable ItWhat Is Windows SmartScreen and How to Disable It
Four Easy Steps to Turn off WiFi When Ethernet Is Plugged InFour Easy Steps to Turn off WiFi When Ethernet Is Plugged In
How to Uninstall or Reinstall Cortana in Windows 10How to Reinstall Cortana in Windows 10
Fix: Unhandled Exception Access ViolationFix: Unhandled Exception Access Violation
How to Turn off Facebook's Annoying Login With Profile Picture FeatureHow To Turn Off Facebook's Annoying Login With Profile Picture Feature
How to Run Windows PowerShell (Video)How to Run PowerShell Scripts - If you're wondering how to get a PowerShell script to work, look no further.
How to Fix Error Code: 0xc0000034If you've gotten the blue screen of death with an error code of 0xc0000034, it can be pretty scary but here's a solution I have tested and found to work to get Windows to boot without losing any data.
A Guide to Discovering Indie GamesOver the years you may have spotted hundreds of game titles on MajorGeeks that you never heard of. These games are called indie, short for independent games, and it's one of my favorite genres of games. Here's some info on what indie games are all about.
Best USB Wi-Fi Adapters For WindowsNeed a USB Wi-Fi adapter for your computer or tablet? Picking the right one can be difficult
How to Install Windows XP Service Pack 3 or Service Pack 4 UnofficialLooking to play around with Windows XP and want to be sure you have the latest Windows Updates? You have two choices, official and unofficial.
How to Disable, Enable, or Modify User Account Control (UAC)User Account Control (UAC) is designed to protect your computer from running apps you shouldn't but it can also be a pain. Here's how to disable or modify it to your needs.
Opt out of Targeted Ads in Windows 10Windows 10 now runs targeted advertising to generate revenue. Here's how to opt out.
How to Search for Anything in WindowsAre you following instructions somewhere and were told to go to Start, search, and you don't see search? No problem.
Can I Delete the Windows.old Folder in Windows 10?Wondering if you can delete the Windows.Old folder? You can. Here's how.
How to Activate After Reinstalling Windows 10Need to activate Windows 10 after a reinstall? Here's how that's done.
How to Disable Windows Defender Antivirus in Windows 10 & 11Windows Security is included in Windows 10 & 11 to protect your computer from online threats. Windows Defender is the free antivirus portion of Windows Security. We're often asked how to remove Defender from Windows 10 & 11. Here's all you need to know.
8 Ways to Activate Windows 10 & 11Having trouble activating Windows 10? Two scenarios allow you to activate Windows 10.
Fixing the Windows Explorer Crash or Freeze in WindowsIs your Windows Explorer, Computer, Control Panel and other Windows suddenly crashing? Here's how to fix it with video.
How to Fix Sound Problems in WindowsHaving issues with your sound in Windows? Here's how you can fix it.
How to Prevent the Latest iOS Update From Causing High Data ChargesAn easy look at how to prevent high data usage charges on iOS - save your hard earned cash.
Everything You Need to Know About LED Lights for Your HomeHere's everything you need to know about purchasing the right LED bulb for your situation.
How to Enable Dark Mode in Windows 10 & 11A quick and easy guide for enabling dark themes on Windows 10.
Turn Off Windows 10 Lock Screen Ads and Start Menu App SuggestionsHow to easily disable app suggestions and lock screen ads from within Windows 10.
Fixing an Alienware Fan IssueRunning down a fan issue on an Alienware Aurora R3.
How to run GMER when malware prevents itGMER is an application that detects rootkits and allows you to monitor system functions including drivers loading, libraries loading, file functions, registry entries, TCP/IP connections and more. S...
Using G-Parted to Repair Windows Partition InfectionsProcedure to download G-Parted ISO and create bootable Windows CD Step 1: Important instructions for Win XP users ONLY!!!!!! Other users skip to step 2. If you do not have your Windows XP boot...
How to fix the Windows 7 MBR for 64-BitMBR infections are only worsening and sometimes (rarely) can make computer unbootable after attempting to repair the infection. We recommend that you back up your data beforehand and then continue with the below if you wish to attempt to remove this infection.
How to fix the Windows 7 MBR for 32-BitMBR infections are only worsening and sometimes (rarely) can make computer unbootable after attempting to repair the infection. We recommend that you back up your data beforehand and then continue with the below if you wish to attempt to remove this infection.
How to use Kaspersky TDSSKillerPlease download Kaspersky TDSSKiller and save it onto your Desktop. Now double click the TDSSkiller.exe file to run it (if using Vista or Windows 7 do not double click on it but rather, right click ...
How to Remove the Facebook TimelineAt the time this article was written, there is no way to go back to the old layout and Facebook is showing no interest in giving you a choice. In other words; get used to it. There is an option here, however.
Three Ways to Remove or Update Older Versions of Java In this tutorial, we show you three ways to remove or update older or multiple versions of Java installed on your computer. Oracle (the owners of Java) recommends that you remove older versions.
How to Speed up Your Firefox, Chrome or Safari BrowserDoes it take your browser a relatively long time to open? Do websites also take a while to load? After a while, your browser becomes fragmented, often referred to as fragmentation of databases.
How to Disable And Enable System RestoreThere are many reasons why you might need to enable or disable system restore. One worst case scenario is when your computer is infected and you run the risk of having that malware saved in System Res...
How to Fix Missing DVD/CD Drives in Windows File Explorer It is very common these days to have your CD/DVD drive stop functioning. There are various causes; from loose power or IDE cables to broken drives, corrupt drivers, or registry issues. Often, someone has upgraded from a previous Operating System or installed (incompatible) CD/DVD burning software that can cause this issue.
5 Ways to Use the Internet SaferWe want to share our 20 years of computer experience with you to show you just how easy it is to be safer on the internet based on the most common, repeated mistakes we have seen including hundreds of...
How to Remove the "adnow" VirusIf you are infected with the "adnow" virus, you probably have these symptoms...
How to optimize that new computerDid you just spend your hard earned cash on a new computer only to get home and find that it isn’t all that fast? This is a common problem because most new computers come bundled with programs that no...
How to Disable Unneeded Services in Windows Disabling services is a little-used way to improve your computer's performance. To get to them, go to your Control Panel, Administrative Tools, Services.
How to Speed up That Slow Hard DriveIf you find that your computer is running slower over time, upgrading, cleaning, or optimizing your hard drive, which is the single largest bottleneck on your computer, can make a big difference.
How to Maximize Your Android Phone BatteryDoes your cell phone constantly needing charging? Well, you can probably blame part of it on those free Android apps. So, you are saving .99 cents, but you are getting apps that are full of ads that a...
How to Make Your Computer Run Like New in 4 Easy StepsOver time, most computers can become sluggish for numerous reasons. Computer shops could charge you for an hour or two of labor to do a mediocre job, or you can do it yourself at home by following our four easy steps.
How to Manage Your Internet Explorer and Microsoft Edge Saved PasswordsWhenever you visit a website that requires you to enter login details, your Internet Explorer will prompt you "Do you want Internet Explorer to remember the password for xyz website?" If you click 'Yes', then you will not be required to enter the login details again when you visit that site. This removes the hassle of entering the login details every time you visit that site.
How to Improve Your Wireless Network PerformanceWith all of today's devices fighting for bandwidth, it's not unusual to run into a weak signal or slow speed. There are many easy ways to test your internet connection, router, and devices and find out where the problem lies.
How to Remove Trojan:DOS/Alureon.AOur team on the malware forums has written a guide to help remove the Trojan:DOS/Alureon infection. This should help you to remove it on your own but if you are not successful be sure to ask for help on the forums.
How to buy a laptop on a budget - 2012The holidays are here and I am constantly being asked the same question... What laptop should I get for $500 or less? Here is the simplest explanation I can give... This is simply broken down into ...
