Have you been feeling anxious in the digital space? Feeling like you have a million eyes on you each time you visit a website? It can definitely make you uneasy. Luckily there’s an easy fix, and it’s called a VPN.
In this article we’ll take you through the basics of what a VPN does and some of the biggest benefits you can reap from buying one.
VPN: definition and how it works
VPN stands for Virtual Private Network, so its name already says a lot about what it does.
A VPN is specialized software that keeps your browsing private and secure. Essentially it hides your identity, preventing possible cyberattacks and data theft. This is especially important in cases of public network use, where you’re highly exposed to potential threats.
To be more specific, this software encrypts your Internet Protocol (IP) address by filtering it through a server hosted by the VPN provider first. That way, it prevents your Internet service provider, third parties and lurking online thieves from tracking the actual you.
Credit: FLY:D on Unsplash
Some providers, such as Surfshark VPN with its IP Rotator feature, even make it a habit to frequently change your IP address to further protect your identity. With most VPN providers, you can also appear to be in a completely different country, adding to your disguise.
There are tons of advantages you can look forward to if you decide to use a VPN. Take a look at some of the crucial ones.
Benefits of using a VPN
When choosing a VPN, you can find both free and paid options. We recommend you go with the paid ones, since they have stronger security, encryption and data protection, as well as more advanced features. Free VPNs come with limitations and risk of malicious attacks on the software itself.
You can choose to buy a singular VPN service or opt for antivirus software that has a VPN built in, for example Bitdefender’s Ultimate Security plan. That depends on what you use your computer for and how much.
When you pick one, here’s what it can do for you.
1. Access region-specific content
When we said you could change your location, we meant it. Say you’re using a streaming service and a show you desperately want to watch isn’t available in your country. You can use your VPN to make it look like you’re browsing from a country where it’s unlocked.
This option is also convenient for gamers who want to access maps, skins and other in-game items unavailable in their location.
In addition, you can use this powerful feature when you’re traveling to a region where some of your favorite content may not be accessible.
Do keep in mind that you need to read the Terms and Conditions (yeah, we know - who does that?) of your games and services before doing this, since you could end up getting a penalty. It’s also important to remember that there are entire countries that have strict regulations or even bans on VPNs, for example Belarus, Russia and China. So make sure to be very cautious with your VPN use, friends.
2. Browse like no one’s watching
VPNs shield your browsing habits from prying eyes on the web. Those can be malicious hackers or just third-party cookies tracking your every move to later bombard you with targeted ads. For example, Surfshark VPN features a Cookie blocker that blocks all cookie-related pop-ups and lets you browse in peace (and secret). It works even when the VPN is turned off, which is also pretty neat.
In addition, their CleanWeb 2.0 technology makes sure ads and especially malware don’t stand a chance at all, since they’re blocked before they can even load.
The inability of sites to track your browsing means they can’t collect and analyze any of your data. So, your personal information - or your company’s information in case that’s what you’re using your computer for - is entirely hidden and secure.
3. Save money
It’s well-known that the prices of certain items and services vary based on your location, browsing time, age and many other factors. This most commonly goes for airline tickets and hotel stays.
You can use your VPN to avoid high prices and surcharges. Clear all cookies, turn on your VPN and visit an online shopping site to check out their prices. Then compare your findings with the offers you see when your VPN is off, when you spend a long time on the site or have an active account with the company.
Sometimes this can really help you find the best deals and avoid breaking the bank. But again, check the Terms and Conditions before you purchase something using a VPN.
4. Secure your smart home
The more smart devices you have connected to your network, the more exposed you are to potential cyberattacks. Phones and computers are generally designed to be decently secure even without a VPN or antivirus, but smart home devices leave a lot to be desired in that regard.
Protecting your home network with a VPN software means all devices connected to it are secure, be it an air purifier or Alexa.
Credit Bence Boros on Unsplash
5. Prevent connection slowdown
Your ISP can intentionally slow down your internet speed based on how much data you’ve consumed (data throttling) or your activities online (bandwidth throttling).
But with a VPN, what kind of data you send and receive and how much is entirely hidden. Therefore, if your ISP can’t see you, they can’t control you and they can’t throttle down your speed.
The bottom line
You can never be too safe online. So definitely think about getting yourself a solid VPN to pump up your privacy and security as much as you can. And if you have any questions or need help choosing the perfect software for you, feel free to reach out to us.
Windows 11 has arrived and it is being adopted all around the globe as we are writing this article. People are adapting it daily and today we will take a look at some advanced security features of the new Windows and do you really need an antivirus in it.
It is not a secret that Windows 11 is the most secure Windows ever created, well at least up until now. It is packed with advanced security features like S-mode, Secure Boot, and Trusted Platform Module (TMP 2.0). All these new security features that Microsoft has advertised made people question are enough for security or do you still need third-party Antivirus software.
In order to get an answer to this question, let us first take a detailed look at what each one of them does, and then we will give you our opinion on a given subject.
Windows S mode
For everyday home use, Windows 11 S mode is the most secure feature to have on your PC. This is a safety protocol where only apps from Microsoft Store are allowed to be installed. This eliminates the risk of installing third-party apps that may contain viruses or malware. Furthermore, S-mode protects your web browsing activity through the Microsoft Edge browser. S-mode does not allow you to use other browsers for security reasons. If you are using Windows 11 in S-mode, your PC and data will be secure in most parts. You need not buy antivirus when using Windows 11 in S-mode.
Windows Defender
The inbuilt security suite, Windows Defender was launched for the first time in 2006. Earlier to that it had existed and was known as Microsoft AntiSpyWare. Windows Defender has undergone significant improvements over the years. In its latest version available with Windows 11, Windows Defender offers a comprehensive range of security features. It is available under the Windows Security system. Some key security features include real-time virus and threat protection, account protection, firewall & network protection, app and browser control, parental controls, and device (hardware) security. This is comparable to security features offered by third-party antivirus programs.
Microsoft Account
In Windows 11, it is necessary to use a Microsoft account that will be linked to your device. This ensures the security of your data in case your device is lost or stolen. You just need to make sure that you have set a strong password for your device. Windows 11 also has Bitlocker that keeps your data in encrypted form.
Ransomware protection
In view of rising cases of ransomware, Microsoft has introduced dedicated ransomware protection in Windows 11. It works by stopping apps from carrying out unauthorized changes to files and folders. Users can choose their important files and folders that they want to be protected from ransomware.
Conclusion
As we went through Windows 11 security features, we can clearly see that it is packed heavily with many security features that aim to protect your data and your identity. Looking at them, one can clearly come to the conclusion that you do not really need any third-party software and that Windows itself can catch and protect most of the issues, and they would be right.
If you use Windows 11 carefully, meaning that you go only to trusted websites, do not open suspicious emails, and click on suspicious links, if you do not use extensively external USB devices or mass media you really do not need any kind of third party protection, Windows built-in tools will do well and keep you protected.
However, if you do come in contact with other people's USB devices if you surf over the net, and overall if you really want to be at peace of mind that you are protected you will still need a well-established third-party software protection solution.
Windows 11 has great security features, best so far in any Windows but it is still far from being a solution that does not require dedicated protection solution. So do yourself a favor and grab one.
We recently had a top antivirus software review, find the article here and pick one that is best for you.
https://errortools.com/viruses/the-best-antivirus-software-of-2021/
0x8007042c is a Windows Firewall error code. This error hampers your ability to turn on Windows Firewall on your PC. Firewall is a network security system.
It establishes a barrier between a trusted, secure internal network and another network (the internet) that is assumed unsecure.
Error 0x8007042c is displayed in the following format:
“0x8007042c” error message when you try to start Windows Firewall
Solution
Error Causes
Error 0x8007042c may pop up on your computer screen because of many reasons. These include:
Firewall service is disabled
Malware infection
Registry corruption
Further Information and Manual Repair
The good news is that this error code is easy to resolve. To repair, you don’t to be technically sound or hire a professional for the job. Try our DIY methods illustrated below to fix the problem by yourself in a few minutes.
Method 1 - Start Firewall Manually
This method allows you to start Windows Firewall service manually and then make sure that it starts automatically in the future. This can be done by following these steps, first, go to the start menu and then type services in the search box.
Right-click services and then click RUN as Administrator. Now scroll down until you see Windows Firewall. Then double click on it. After that, click the startup type box and then click Automatic.
If ‘Service Status’ is stopped, then click Start. Now click ‘Apply’ and then press OK. Scroll until you see ‘Base Filtering Engine’, double click it. If again the ‘Service Status’ is stopped, click start.
Press Apply and then OK to activate changes. Now restart Windows, Firewall will be enabled.
Method 2 - Remove Malware
If the error cause is a malware infection, use the Microsoft Safety Scanner to remove malware immediately from your PC.
Download it from Microsoft’s official website, install, accept terms and then run it to perform a quick scan. The Microsoft Safety Scanner will scan and remove all malware infecting your PC.
Once this is done, click Start and then type Windows Firewall in the Search box. Click Windows Firewall and the navigation pane of Control Panel;
Click Turn Windows Firewall on or off. Click Turn on Windows Firewall for each network location and then press OK to activate changes.
Method 3 - Repair the Registry
Sometimes the underlying cause can be registry corruption. In such a situation, download Restoro. It is a PC Repair Tool deployed with a registry cleaner.
It scans and removes all the bad entries and files infecting your PC, cleans and repairs the registry in a few minutes.
Click here to download Restoro.
Error 504 is a type of runtime error that occurs on Windows PC. A runtime error is a bug that causes software or hardware problems thereby preventing programs from working on your PC correctly.
This error may occur during the execution of the program. It also slows down your PC performance.
Solution
Error Causes
Error 504 can be triggered by many causes such as:
Incompatibility between 2 software programs
Malicious software
Missing DLL files
Registry issues
Further Information and Manual Repair
Whenever you experience the error 504 on your system, it is advisable to resolve it immediately, typically because runtime errors like error 504 can lead to system failure and valuable data loss which is more than often hard to recover.
To resolve this error code, you don’t necessarily have to hire a professional for the job. In fact, here are some solutions that you can try to fix by yourself, even if you are not a computer programmer.
1. Get the latest updates for Windows and for the program showing the error
This is a quick way to resolve runtime error 504 on Windows PC. To update the latest updates for Windows and for the program causing the error, open Windows Update by going to the start menu.
In the search box type ‘update’ and then in the list of results click Windows Update. In the left pane click on check for updates, wait while Windows looks for the latest updates.
It will show you a list of updates available select the important updates that you want to install. Then click ok and then click install updates.
After the updates are successfully complete, restart your PC and try running the application. If the error still persists, then try the solution given below.
2. Scan For Malicious Software
Sometimes the runtime error 504 may occur due to viral infection and malware. So, to resolve it download an antivirus. However, the antivirus can also slow down your PC performance.
3. Scan for Registry Issues
Another way to resolve it is to scan for registry issues. The registry and DLL files get damaged when it overloads with too much data. This particularly includes irrelevant and obsolete files. Registry issues trigger runtime errors like 504.
The best way to resolve it is to download Restoro. This is an advanced and multi-functional PC Fixer embedded with multiple utilities like a registry cleaner, an antivirus, and a system optimizer.
The registry cleaning utility resolves registry issues by removing the unnecessary files completely and repairing the damaged dll files. The antivirus module scans and removes all kinds of malicious software on your PC like viruses and Trojans, thereby resolving the runtime error 504 in seconds.
As for speed, Restoro also functions as a system optimizer which boosts the performance of your system significantly.
Restoro is safe and bug-free software. It has simple navigation and a user-friendly interface which makes it very easy to operate and workaround. It is compatible with all Windows versions.
Click here to download Restoro and resolve error 504 today!
Error code 0xc004fc03 occurs when Windows users fail to activate their Windows operating system due to a networking problem. The error code’s common symptoms include the following:
Inability to activate Windows 10 operating system
Message box with error code 0xc004fc03
Solution
Error Causes
Error code 0xc004fc03 in Windows 10 usually occurs due to issues related to a Windows user’s network. Your computer may be having problems connecting to the Internet or your firewall may be blocking or interrupting your device’s ability to activate Windows 10. In some cases, users may simply need to wait a day or two to reattempt to activate their system using a valid product key, as there may be an issue with the Windows activation servers. Failure to promptly fix this error code might result in other Windows 10 error messages, such as error code 0xc004f034.
Further Information and Manual Repair
To rectify the error code, Windows 10 users will need to perform manual repair procedures that fix the underlying problems causing error code 0xc004fc03. These procedures may include reconnecting to one’s network, checking your firewall settings, or activating your Windows operating system via phone. The manual repair methods are simple and do not require technical knowledge of the Windows operating system. If your attempts at manually repairing this error code fail, however, you may need to try a few other procedures.
Method One: Verify Internet Connection
To check your Internet connection, you’ll need to access the Network & Internet tab in Windows 10. Follow the instructions below to access this tab and fix Internet connectivity issues if they are preventing you from activating Windows on your machine.
Step one: Click the Start button and select Settings
Step two: Select Network & Internet
Step three: Click the Status section of the Network & Internet tab
If your status shows that you are not connected to a network, you will need to fix your connection. Simply use the Network Troubleshooter to troubleshoot your connection. You will be able to activate your copy of Windows once your connectivity issues are resolved.
If, however, the problem persists and error code 0xc004fc03 occurs during the activation process, this simply means that the existence of the error code is not due to connectivity or networking problems. In such a case, move to the next manual repair method listed below and follow the exact instructions given.
Method Two: Check Firewall Settings
Windows Firewall protects your PC from hackers, worms, and other malicious programs. However, in some cases, it may result in error codes like error code 0xc004fc03. If your firewall is interfering with the Windows 10 activation, you’ll be able to rectify the problem by simply adjusting your settings. Follow the steps below to check – and adjust if necessary – your Windows Firewall settings.
Step one: Click search bar and type firewall
Step two: Select Windows Firewall
Step three: Select Turn Windows Firewall on or off
In some cases, Windows users may not be able to adjust settings within the Windows Firewall tab, as your firewall settings may be controlled by a third party antivirus software. If this is the case, open the antivirus software and turn off the firewall if the software does not prevent you from making such changes to its settings.
Note, however, that you will need to readjust the settings as soon as you activate your version of Windows 10. This is due to the fact that turning off your firewall settings permanently may lead to exposure to worms and other malicious programs.
Method Three: Activate Windows by Phone
Activation of Windows via phone is another option for individuals experiencing error code 0xc004fc03. The activate by phone option in the Update & Security tab will be available once you fail to activate Windows 10. To complete this manual repair method, follow the steps below.
Step one: Select Settings
Step two: Click Update & security
Step three: Select Activate by phone
Step four: Follow the instructions provided thereafter.
This is one of the most effective ways to fix error code 0xc004fc03. If the issue persists, however, you can proceed to the last resort.
Method Four: Download an Automated Tool
If you wish to always have at your disposal a utility tool to fix these Windows 8 and other related issues when they do arise, download and install a powerful automated tool.
This is a typical MS Outlook error code. This error message may prevent you from sending and receiving emails via your Outlook account. The error message is displayed in the following format:
"An unknown error has occurred. 0x80040600"
If this is the primary source of your communication in the office, then this error can cause you a great deal of inconvenience as it may prevent you from running important business errands via your Outlook account efficiently.
Therefore, when you experience the 0x80040600 error on your PC, it is advisable to fix it immediately.
Solution
Error Causes
This error code is triggered due to multiple reasons. These include but are not limited to:
PST (Personal Storage Table) file reaches its file size limit
PST file corruption
Viral infection
Incorrect Windows registry settings
Improper shutdown of Outlook
This error code can lower your office productivity as you may be unable to send and receive emails on your Outlook account. Also, you may get locked out of your account and be unable to view your calendar entries and open email attachments saved previously in your account.
Further Information and Manual Repair
To resolve the error on your PC, you don’t have to wait for the network personnel to fix it or be a computer expert. Here is a list of easy and effective DIY methods to help you fix this error code right away.
Method 1: Download a PST File Repair
If the error occurs because your PST file has reached it maximum limit which is normally 2 GB or because of PST file corruption, then it is advisable to download a PST file repair tool. After downloading it, simply run it on your PC. This tool will immediately fix the damaged PST file and file the issue.
Method 2: Download an Antivirus
Deadly viruses like Trojans and spyware can penetrate into your PC if through downloads and opening phishing emails. Therefore, to remove such viruses it is important to install an antivirus and scan your entire PC.
Method 3: Install Restoro.
If the problem is associated with incorrect Windows registry settings or viral infection, it is advisable to download Restoro.
This software is multi-functional deployed with 6 different and powerful utilities including an antivirus, a registry cleaner, and a system optimizer to name a few.
The registry cleaner repairs the registry corrects the settings and fixes the damaged files.
The antivirus on the other hand simultaneously removes all types of viruses including Trojans, spyware, malware, and adware on the system. While the system optimizer feature ensures the PC performance and speed are not compromised during the scanning and cleanup process.
This software is safe, efficient, and compatible with all Windows versions. It has a user-friendly interface and simple navigations which makes it quite easy for all levels of users including novice and intermediate to operate.
Click here to download Restoro and resolve the 0x80040600 error code on your PC today!
Some users installing or upgrading to Windows 10 experienced the theKMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED Blue Screen of Death (or commonly known as BSOD) error. This error can be due to different types of things, ranging from software to driver issues. When you experience this BSOD error while trying to install Windows 10, it will prompt you to restart your computer every single time you experience it. In most cases, you will also not be able to proceed with the Windows 10 set-up.
Solution
Error Causes
The “KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED” error is normally caused by:
Hardware incompatibility
A faulty device driver or system service
Further Information and Manual Repair
You won’t be able to successfully upgrade or set up Windows 10 if you continue to encounter this BSOD error. Note that this error will always prompt your computer to restart every time it happens, preventing you from completing the Windows 10 set-up.
If you’re not tech-savvy or not capable of debugging this issue, it’s highly advisable to proceed with the basic troubleshooting techniques available in this link.
After troubleshooting, below you’ll find a few solutions to rectify the issue.
Method 1 – Check The Cause of The BSOD Error
Two common causes of the KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED issue are hardware incompatibility and faulty device driver or system service.
If you experience this error, check first if any of your newly installed hardware is compatible with Windows 10. You can find the required hardware for Windows 10 from this link.
If all your hardware is compatible with Windows 10, you might need to check the device driver or system service. Review the bug check message. If any of the drivers you have is listed in the message, either disable or uninstall them before upgrading or setting up Windows 10.
You might also find it useful to check the System Log available in the Event Viewer for other error messages that can help you figure out the driver or device that’s causing the error. Running hardware diagnostics can also be useful.
Method 2 – Disable (or preferably uninstall) Software Before Upgrading
If you’re upgrading Windows 10 from Windows 7 or Windows 8.1, you might need to disable or uninstall the software first.
First, try uninstalling your Antivirus utility before starting the upgrade. Restart a few times before starting the Windows 10 installation.
If you’re upgrading using the Windows 10 update, make sure that you disconnect from your Wi-Fi or Internet LAN (Ethernet) connection as soon as the download reaches 100% before attempting to start the set-up.
Other users also reported that the cause of the KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED issue is BitDefender. If this is what happened in your case, it will show in the error message such as KMODE_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED (bdselfpr.sys). Users reported that a common solution for this is renaming the file. In the case of BitDefender, try renaming it to bdselfpr.s__. However, make sure to do this cautiously. Sometimes, renaming a file will even do more damage than good.
Method 3 – Disable/Disconnect From Hardware
If you’re connected to any general USB devices (such a smart card reader), disable it. If your computer is connected to other external devices, disconnect all of them. Examples of this include gaming controllers, printers, external hard disk, USB keys, and other non-essential devices).
Method 4 – Other Troubleshooting Steps
Other troubleshooting steps include:
Upgrade using an .ISO file, instead of directly upgrading from Windows Update. When you do this, make sure you’re disconnected from the Internet during installation. If the process started and you forgot to disconnected, it’s best to restart the installation.
If you’re connected to a domain while trying to set up Windows 10, disconnect and use a local account.
If you’re using a SCSI hard disk, connect a thumb drive with the drivers for your storage device. While Windows 10 is setting up, click on the Custom Advanced Option. Using the thumb drive, use the Load Driver command to load the SCSI drive.
Another possible cause of this error is due to BIOS incompatibility. BIOS issues can be solved by upgrading your version of your system BIOS. If you don’t know how to do this, refer to your BIOS manufacturer’s website.
Method 5 – Use A Trusted Automated Tool
If you still experience the error after doing the methods above, you might want to try a powerful and trusted automated tool to fix the job.
If you encountered an error message saying, “We couldn’t find any drives, To get a storage driver, click Load driver” when you try to install Windows in a VirtualBox machine, then you’ve come to the right place as this post will guide you in fixing this error.
This error message is displayed on the screen where you have to choose a partition to install the guest operating system. This error is most likely due to the lack of correct settings as well as a corrupted virtual disk. To fix this error, you have to remove existing storage devices, create a new storage device and select the correct ISO file.
For complete instructions, follow the given steps below.
Step_1: The first thing you have to do is remove all the existing Storage devices and since this option is already available in VirtualBox by default, there is no need for you to install any third-party software.
Step_2: After that, open VirtualBox and select the virtual machine and then click the Settings button.
Step_3: Next, switch to the Storage section and on your right-hand side, you will see “Controller: SATA” and two other sub-labels. From there, select Controller: SATA and then click on the red cross button that says, “Remove selected storage controller”.
Step_4: Now click on the Add new storage controller icon and select the “Add SATA Controller” option from the given list.
Step_5: Afterwards, click the “Add hard disk” button and select the “Create new disk” option, and then you have to create a new virtual disk for your virtual machine.
Step_6: Verify if you have selected Dynamically allocated while you create the virtual hard disk. Once the process is completed, you will get a “.vdi” file in the list.
Step_7: Next, click on the “Add optical drive” button and select the “Choose disk” option. Here, you have to select the ISO file and if you can find an ISO file in the given list, select it from there, else, you have to click the Add button and navigate to the folder where the ISO file is located.
Step_8: Once you’re done, click the OK button and boot your virtual machine. You should see options instead of the “We couldn’t find any drives, To get a storage driver, click Load driver” error message. If you see the options, you can now create a new partition and start the installation process of the Windows operating system in the VirtualBox machine without any problem.
Updating your computer does not always end up successfully as there are a number of things that could go wrong with the Windows Update module in your Windows 10 computer. One of the issues you could face when you update your computer is error 0x80244019. This error could be caused by a number of factors. If you are currently having problems fixing this Windows Update error, read on as this post will help you resolve this problem.
Here’s the full content of the error:
“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: (0x80244019).”
In this kind of Windows Update error, you might not be able to get the download file of the requested update started to your computer and this could be due to some third-party application or the overall internal components that contribute to the functioning of the Windows Update module.
Refer to each one of the following options to fix the Windows Update error 0x80244019.
Option 1 – Restart your computer
The most basic thing you can do to fix the problem is to restart your computer. It usually works in fixing common issues like the Windows Update error 0x80244019. However, if it didn’t work, proceed to the next given options below.
Option 2 – Try to run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
The Windows Update Troubleshooter will help you in fixing error 0x80244019. This is a great built-in tool from Microsoft that helps users fix any issues with Windows Update. So this is worth a try to solve the problem.
To use the Windows Update Troubleshooter, follow the steps below.
Tap Win + I keys again to open the Windows Settings panel.
Go to Update & Security and then go to Troubleshoot.
Under the Troubleshoot section, on your left-hand side, scroll down to find Windows Update and then click on Run the troubleshooter option and follow the on-screen instructions and then see if it fixes the problem.
Option 3 – Try configuring the Windows Update-related Services
Configuring all the Windows Update-related services could also help in fixing the error as it makes sure that all the required services are available.
Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
Then type “cmd” in the field and tap Enter to open an elevated Command Prompt.
Next, execute the following commands. Note that you have to type and enter each command one after the other.
SC config wuauserv start= auto
SC config bits start= auto
SC config cryptsvc start= auto
SC config trustedinstaller start= auto
The commands you executed will make sure that the Windows Update-related services are available. Once it’s done, restart your computer and see if the Windows Update error is now fixed.
Option 4 – Run Windows Update in a Clean Boot State
It could be that some third-party application is the one that’s causing the problem so it’s best if you put your computer in a Clean Boot state. During this state, you can start the system with a minimum number of drivers and startup programs that will surely help you in isolating the root cause of the issue.
Log onto your PC as an administrator.
Type in MSConfig in the Start Search to open the System Configuration utility.
From there, go to the General tab and click “Selective startup”.
Clear the “Load Startup items” check box and make sure that the “Load System Services” and “Use Original boot configuration” options are checked.
Next, click the Services tab and select “Hide All Microsoft Services” check box.
Click Disable all.
Click on Apply/OK and restart your PC. (This will put your PC into a Clean Boot State. And configure Windows to use the usual startup, just simply undo the changes.)
After that, try to run Windows Update again.
Note: If you are able to install the app without any trouble at all then it means that the error is caused by some third-party application on your computer. You need to look for the culprit and uninstall it once you found it.
Option 5 – Try to fix the Proxy Settings
In the Cortana search box, search for Internet Explorer and then click on the related search result.
After that, tap the Win + T keys on your keyboard and click on Internet Options.
Next, navigate to the Connections tab and click on LAN Settings.
Then click on the Advanced button and delete all the entries in the list generated in the Exceptions section. And if the Advanced button is disabled because the “Use a proxy server for your LAN (These settings will not apply to dial-up or VPN connections)” option is disabled then you are good to go. Now proceed to the next step.
Tap the Win + X keys or right-click on the Start button and select Command Prompt (Admin) or you could also search for “cmd” in the Cortana search box and right-click on Command Prompt from the search results and select the “Run as administrator” option.
If a User Account Control appears, click on Yes to proceed. After that, type each one of the commands listed below, and don’t forget to hit Enter after you type each one of them.
netsh winhttp reset proxy
net stop wuauserv
net start wuauserv
Now restart your computer and check if the problem is fixed or not by checking for Windows Updates again.
The Error Code 0x800F0923 is one that appears only when attempting to update from older versions of Microsoft Windows to Microsoft Windows 10. This error does not occur with every install and is believed to be the result of a driver incompatibility issue. It is unclear which specific drivers are having the compatibility issues, though it is widely believed that DuplexSecure's SPTD drivers are the ones at fault. When operating correctly, without errors, the update process should not take longer than 30 minutes.
Common symptoms include:
Error message window/pop-up during the install process, giving the Error Code 0x800F0923
Inability to install and update from older versions of Microsoft Windows to version 10
Solution
Error Causes
There are various relevant factors associated with the error code 0x800F0923 incompatibility issue in Windows 10 installation/upgrade. These factors include but are not limited to:
The Operating System (OS) upgrading does not support older hardware.
Your computer’s specs did not meet the minimum requirements.
Not enough hard disk space.
The new software might lack software drivers for older hardware
Further Information and Manual Repair
Microsoft has recently released its Windows 10 operating system. While there are still a few kinks to be worked out, overall the reviews have been positive. As with any new Microsoft update, compatibility issues can arise. If you are unsure whether your current PC will be able to handle the new Windows 10, here is an easy way to check your system.
Method 1: Check if your computer is compatible
Locate the “Get Windows 10” application icon in your notification tray (bottom right corner of your screen, white Windows logo).
Right-click on this icon, then select the “check your upgrade status” option.
Be prepared for the menu to take a few minutes to open.
Click on the menu on the upper left-hand corner of this new dialog box. (It looks like three blue horizontal lines)
Select “check your PC”
After the system checks for compatibility, it will let you know whether or not your PC has the appropriate drivers, etc. (Keep in mind that this is not a foolproof method for checking compatibility status).
Method 2: Download or upgrade your drivers/software
If you have already attempted to update to Windows 10, and have received the Error Code 0x800F0923, this is the simplest way to solve the issue yourself.
1. Open the “Get Windows 10” application.2. Open the menu in the upper left corner, looks like three blue lines.3. Select “Check your PC”.4. The system will tell you which drivers are incompatible.5. Go to the Microsoft Support website to install and/or update the drivers that proved to be an issue.6. Once the driver issue is corrected, retry the Windows 10 update.
Method 3: Create space on your computer
If your computer does not have sufficient space to accept the upgrade, you might want to clear up some space on your computer. Here’s how to do it.
If you have not attempted to install Microsoft Windows 10 yet, it is a good idea to check your system's compatibility prior to installing. While it is not absolutely necessary, it will save time and frustration. Microsoft Support suggests contacting them directly if you are unable to solve your driver compatibility issues, or if the above do-it-yourself method is unsuccessful.
To resolve this compatibility issue and get your upgrade going use a powerful and user-friendly tool to clean up the problem.
Click here to download Restoro.
Users should also be aware that those who choose to upgrade to Windows 10 have 30 days in which they may decide that they would rather use their old system. However, reverting back to the older system may not be a smooth process, and some data could be lost.
Windows 10 is has a lot of features that help a user in optimizing a computer. So when the operating system encounters a problem, it is able to provide users with proper resources to get the problem fixed. There are even times when a user is not notified and an issue is either being repaired or dodged in the background. This kind of feature is known as the Diagnosis of the Automatic Repair feature that starts when your computer is booting. In such times, you will either see the “Diagnosing your PC” or “Preparing Automatic Repair” message on your screen.
Although this feature is useful and has proven to be effective, some users reported that the process gets stuck. If you experience the same problem, read on as this post will guide you on what to do to fix it but before you start troubleshooting the problem, you might want to perform a Hard Boot first. All you have to do is to power down your computer, remove the battery and the AC adapter and then reconnect them. After that, tap and hold the power button for about 20 seconds and see if your computer boots up properly. If it doesn’t, follow the given fixes below.
Option 1 – Try disabling the automatic Startup Repair
The Automatic Startup Repair window will automatically open during boot when you have some system driver-related problem. So if you think that this is where the problem lies, you can try to disable the automatic Startup Repair.
Click on Troubleshoot and go to the Advanced options.
After that, select Command Prompt and execute the following command:
bcdedit /set recoveryenabled NO
Restart your computer after that and then check.
Option 2 – Run the System File Checker
System File Checker or SFC is a built-in command utility that helps in restoring corrupted files as well as missing files. It replaces bad and corrupted system files to good system files that might be the cause why you’re facing this problem. To run the SFC command, follow the steps given below.
Type “cmd” in the Start search and then right-click on the appropriate search result.
Next, select “Run as administrator” to open Command Prompt with admin privileges.
After opening Command Prompt, type in sfc /scannow
The command will start a system scan which will take a few whiles before it finishes. Once it’s done, you could get the following results:
Windows Resource Protection did not find any integrity violations.
Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files and successfully repaired them.
Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files but was unable to fix some of them.
Now restart your computer and see if the problem is fixed or not.
Option 3 – Run CHKDSK to check your disk for errors
When it comes to some issues concerning the hard drive or removable devices, there is a utility in Windows that might help which is called “chkdsk”. This error check utility can help with several issues in the system.
Tap the Win + S keys to open the Search box.
Then type “command prompt” in the field and from the search results that appear, right-click on Command Prompt and select “Run as administrator”.
After opening an elevated command prompt, copy and paste the following command and hit Enter:
chkdsk /r /f
Now if you are prompted to run CHKDSK after your reboot your computer, just tap Y and reboot your PC.
If CHKDSK is not able to find any errors, tap the Win + E keys and navigate the access window. From there, right-click on the concerned drive and click on Properties.
After opening Properties, click on the tab Tools and then click on the “Check” button under the Error-checking section.
Wait until the process is completed and then restart your computer.
Once your computer has restarted, try accessing the file and check if the error persists.
Option 4 – Run the DISM tool
The next thing you can do is run the DISM tool. This tool is known to repair potentially corrupted files in your system as having them could also system issues like your computer getting stuck in the “Diagnosing your PC” or “Preparing Automatic Repair” screen.
Tap the Win + X keys and click on the “Command Prompt (Admin)” option.
After that, input each one of the commands listed below sequentially to execute them:
Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Once you’ve executed the commands given above, restart your computer and check if the problem is now fixed.
Option 5 – Try to use installation media to boot and repair your computer
Another thing you can try to resolve the issue is to use the Windows installation bootable media so you can boot and repair the operating system. To use it, follow these steps:
You need to first create an installation media which has the dame version of the operating system installed in your computer.
After that, once you reach the Install Windows screen, click on the “Repair your computer” link.
Wait until the repair is completed and then shut down your computer
Now once your computer has restarted, check if it can now boot properly.
It is not a secret that Windows 11 is the most secure Windows ever created, well at least up until now. It is packed with advanced security features like S-mode, Secure Boot, and Trusted Platform Module (TMP 2.0). All these new security features that Microsoft has advertised made people question are enough for security or do you still need third-party Antivirus software.
In order to get an answer to this question, let us first take a detailed look at what each one of them does, and then we will give you our opinion on a given subject.
