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How to Fix Installation Error 1628

What Is Installation Error 1628?

Installation Error 1628 is, as the name suggests, an installation error. When it occurs, a generic 1628 message is displayed to the user. When this message appears, it is either a problem with the install files or an issue with the InstallShield.

Solution

Restoro box imageError Causes

Installation Error 1628 is caused because every Windows-based program or application has been designed that such that it has to be installed on the computer for use.

This installation process is important because it not only moves files to the appropriate location on one’s hard drive but also because the process creates registry entries in Windows System files.

A vast majority of these programs and applications have a built-in tool that’s responsible for aptly performing this installation. This built-in tool is the InstallShield.

This establishes that when this error occurs, it is either because of some unforeseen issue that occurred during the installation process or because of some problem with the InstallShield.

Further Information and Manual Repair

In order to keep this error from occurring in the future, some recommendations are outlined below.

  • Check the installation disc and determine if there are any smudges, scratches, or fingerprints on it. If the system is unable to read data from the disc, Installation Error 1628 will be generated. In order to ensure that the Installation Disc is clean, use a microfiber cloth. Dampen it lightly with water and clean the disc. Wipe the inside of the disc lightly in an outward direction, making sure that it is not wiped in a circular pattern. Try to reinstall the application or program after cleaning the disc. The issue should be resolved. However, if it persists, some problems may be with the InstallShield.
  • The alternative solution is to repair the InstallShield and the procedure goes as follows.
  1. Stop InstallShield’s running process. It may have been crashed and simply needs to be restarted. Now access task manager. Press Ctrl+Alt+Del and the task manager will open. Now go to the processes tab and disable ‘idriver.exe’ and ‘msiexec.exe’ from here.
  2. Now go to ‘C: Program Files/Common Files’. Here you will find the ‘InstallShield’ folder. Select ‘rename’ and modify the folder name to ‘InstallShield1’. Confirm rename and start the installation process again. Now Windows will try to re-install any InstallShield files one needs.
  3. If the error persists after renaming the InstallShield folder, download the Windows Installer from Microsoft’s website. This file will determine whether or not your version is valid. Old versions often have bugs that cause problems. Your system is now ready to be used.

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An Easy Guide to Resolving Error 0x80040600

0x80040600 - What is it?

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

Restoro box imageError 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!
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How to remove AnytimeAstrology

AnytimeAstrology is a browser extension for Google Chrome developed by Mindspark Inc. When installed, this extension will change your default new tab page to a custom search provider called MyWay (search.myway.com).

While browsing the internet with this extension installed, you will see additional ads through your browsing sessions, including but not limited to Sponsored Content, Injected Ads and Pop-up Ads.

While AnytimeAstrology is active it will monitor your browsing habits, recording website visits, clicked links, viewed products, etc. This information is later sent back to Mindspark Ad network servers where it is used to better target additional injected ads into your web pages.

Several anti-virus applications have marked this extension as a Browser Hijacker and it is recommended to remove it from your computer.

About Browser Hijackers

Browser hijackers (also known as hijackware) are a kind of malicious software that modifies web browser configuration settings without the computer owner’s knowledge or approval. These hijacks are raising at an alarming rate globally, and it can be actually nefarious and often harmful too. Browser hijackers could do more than just changing homepages. In most cases, hijackers are created for the benefit of online hackers usually through income generation that comes from forced ad clicks and site visits. While it might seem harmless, these tools are made by malicious people who always try to take advantage of you, so that they can earn money from your naive and distraction. Browser hijackers can also permit other vicious programs without your knowledge to further damage your computer.

Key symptoms that your browser has been hijacked

The following are some symptoms that indicate you’ve been hijacked: 1. your homepage has been reset to some unfamiliar site 2. your browser is constantly being redirected to porn sites 3. default internet search engine is modified 4. you find unwanted new toolbars added 5. you observe a lot of pop-up ads on your screen 6. your browser has become unstable or starts running slowly 7. you can’t visit certain websites such as homepages of antivirus software.

How browser hijacker finds its way to your computer

Browser hijackers could use drive-by downloads or file-sharing websites or perhaps an e-mail attachment in order to reach a targeted computer. They could also come from add-on software, also referred to as browser helper objects (BHO), web browser extensions or toolbars. Browser hijackers sneak into your computer along with free software downloads that you unwittingly install along with the original. An example of some well known browser hijacker includes Conduit, Anyprotect, Babylon, SweetPage, DefaultTab, RocketTab, and Delta Search, but the names are constantly changing. The existence of any browser hijacker on your computer might considerably diminish the web browsing experience, monitor your internet activities that result in serious privacy issues, produce system stability issues and ultimately cause your PC to slowdown or to an almost unusable condition.

The best ways to remove a browser hijacker

Some hijackers can be simply removed by deleting the free software they came with or by eliminating any extension you have recently added to your system. The sad thing is, the majority of the software applications used to hijack a internet browser are deliberately built to be hard to eliminate or detect. Novice computer users should never attempt for the manual form of removal methods, since it calls for thorough computer knowledge to carry out repairs on the computer registry and HOSTS file. Installing and running anti-malware application on the affected system will automatically erase browser hijackers and other unwanted applications. SafeBytes Anti-Malware could counter persistent hijackers and give you proactive computer protection against all kinds of malware. Together with the anti-virus tool, a system optimizer, such as SafeBytes’s Total System Care, could help you in removing all linked files and modifications in the registry automatically.

How to Get rid of Malware that is Blocking Websites or Preventing Downloads

Malware could potentially cause a great deal of damage to your PC. Some malware sits in between the computer and the internet connection and blocks some or all websites that you really want to visit. It might also prevent you from adding anything to your PC, especially anti-malware software. If you’re reading this article, you may have got affected by a virus that prevents you from installing a security software like Safebytes Anti-Malware. Follow the instructions below to get rid of malware through alternate methods.

Eliminate malware in Safe Mode

If the malware is set to run immediately when Windows starts, entering safe mode could very well block the attempt. Just the minimum required programs and services are loaded when you start your PC in Safe Mode. To launch your Windows XP, Vista or 7 computer in Safe Mode with Networking, do as instructed below. 1) At power-on/startup, press the F8 key in 1-second intervals. This will invoke the Advanced Boot Options menu. 2) Select Safe Mode with Networking using arrow keys and press ENTER. 3) Once this mode loads, you will have an internet connection. Now, use your internet browser normally and navigate to https://safebytes.com/products/anti-malware/ to download Safebytes Anti-Malware. 4) As soon as the software program is installed, allow the scan run to eliminate trojans and other threats automatically.

Use an alternate web browser to download an antivirus application

Some malware mainly targets particular internet browsers. If this is your case, make use of another browser as it might circumvent the computer virus. If you suspect that your Internet Explorer happens to be hijacked by a virus or otherwise compromised by online hackers, the best plan of action is to switch to a different browser such as Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, or Apple Safari to download your favorite security application – Safebytes Anti-Malware.

Make a bootable USB anti-virus drive

To successfully eliminate the malware, you will need to approach the problem of running antivirus program on the affected PC from a different angle. Follow these steps to employ a USB flash drive to fix your infected PC. 1) Download the anti-malware program on a virus-free PC. 2) Insert the pen drive on the same system. 3) Run the setup program by double-clicking the executable file of the downloaded application, which has an .exe file extension. 4) When asked, select the location of the USB drive as the place where you want to put the software files. Follow the onscreen instructions to finish the installation. 5) Remove the pen drive. You can now use this portable antivirus on the affected computer. 6) Double-click the antivirus program EXE file on the thumb drive. 7) Run Full System Scan to detect and clean-up up all types of malware.

Protect Your Computer Against Viruses and Malware With SafeBytes Anti-Malware

Would you like to download the best anti-malware software program for your desktop? There are numerous applications in the market that comes in free and paid versions for Microsoft Windows computers. Some are good ones, some are ok types, while some are simply just bogus anti-malware software which will damage your personal computer themselves! You must pick one that is dependable, practical and has a strong reputation for its malware protection. On the list of recommended software programs is SafeBytes AntiMalware. SafeBytes has a really good history of excellent service, and customers appear to be very happy with it. SafeBytes antimalware is a highly effective and easy-to-use protection tool which is created for users of all levels of IT literacy. Through its cutting-edge technology, this software will help you protect your PC against infections brought on by different kinds of malware and similar threats, including adware, spyware, computer viruses, worms, trojan horses, keyloggers, potentially unwanted program (PUPs), and ransomware.

There are plenty of amazing features you will get with this security product. Listed below are some of the great features included in the application.

World-class AntiMalware Protection: This deep-cleaning antimalware program goes much deeper than most antivirus tools to clean out your computer system. Its critically acclaimed virus engine detects and disables hard to remove malware that conceals deep within your personal computer. Active Protection: SafeBytes delivers complete and real-time security for your computer system. They are highly effective in screening and removing numerous threats since they’re continuously improved with new updates and alerts. Safe Web Browsing: Through its unique safety ranking, SafeBytes tells you whether a site is safe or not to visit it. This will ensure that you’re always certain of your online safety when browsing the web. Faster Scanning: SafeBytes’s virus scan engine is among the fastest and most efficient within the industry. It's targeted scanning considerably increases the catch rate for malware that is embedded in various PC files. Lightweight Application: SafeBytes is a lightweight application. It consume a really small amount of processing power as it works in the background so you’re free to use your Windows-based PC the way you really want. 24/7 Premium Support: You can get absolutely free 24/7 technical support from their IT experts on any product queries or PC security concerns. SafeBytes has created a fantastic anti-malware solution to help you conquer the latest malware threats and virus attacks. You can be sure that your computer system will be protected in real-time as soon as you put this software to use. So if you are searching for the best anti-malware subscription for your Windows-based PC, we suggest the SafeBytes Anti-Malware application.

Technical Details and Manual Removal (Advanced Users)

If you wish to manually get rid of AnytimeAstrology without the use of an automated tool, it may be possible to do so by removing the program from the Windows Add/Remove Programs menu, or in cases of web browser plug-ins, going to the browser’s AddOn/Extension manager and removing it. You will most probably also want to totally reset your browser to its default configuration settings. Finally, examine your hard disk for all of the following and clean your computer registry manually to get rid of leftover application entries after uninstallation. Please remember that this is for professional users only and may be difficult, with wrong file removal leading to additional system errors. Additionally, some malicious programs have the capability to defend against its removal. You are urged to do this procedure in Windows Safe Mode.
Folders: C:\USERS\username\APPDATA\LOCAL\AnytimeAstrologyTooltab C:\Users\username\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\Default\Extensions\bdcnkkhncapfcngcjkmfkikanomkgnmb\
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Something happened, we couldn’t start upgrade
As you know, each one of the Windows 10 versions is priced differently and one of the considered more expensive compared to the Windows 10 Home version is the Windows10 Pro. The good thing is, Microsoft allows its users to upgrade from the Windows 10 Home version to the Windows 10 Pro version at a reasonable cost instead of buying the entire license again. However, upgrading your Windows 10 computer is not always that easy and you might encounter some errors along the way. One of the reported errors you could encounter is an error message that says, “Something happened, and we couldn’t start the upgrade”. This kind of problem is due to the problems with the Microsoft Store or the key authorization and to fix it, there are several options you can check out. You can try to run the built-in troubleshooters such as the Windows Update troubleshooter, Windows Store Apps troubleshooter, or Microsoft Accounts troubleshooter. You could also try to reset the Windows Store cache or re-register the Windows Store app. For more details, refer to each one of the given options below.

Option 1 – Try to run the Microsoft Accounts troubleshooter

Since the Microsoft Accounts troubleshooter is not built-in into the Windows operating system, you can download this troubleshooter by clicking on this link.

Option 2 – Try running the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Running the built-in Windows Update troubleshooter could also help you resolve the “Something happened, and we couldn’t start the upgrade” error. To run it, go to Settings and then select Troubleshoot from the options. From there, click on Windows Update and then click the “Run the troubleshooter” button. After that, follow the next on-screen instructions and you should be good to go.

Option 3 – Run the Windows Store App troubleshooter

The Windows 10 Store Apps Troubleshooter will help you in fixing the problem in Microsoft Store. This is a great built-in tool from Microsoft that helps users fix any app issues. To use the Windows Store Apps 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 Window Store Apps.
  • Then click on the Run the troubleshooter option and follow the on-screen instructions and then see if it fixes the problem.

Option 4 – Try to reset the Microsoft Store cache

As you know, like any other apps, Microsoft Store also caches as you view apps and games so it is most likely that the cache is no longer valid and must be removed. To do so, follow the steps below.
  • Right-click on the start button and click on Command Prompt (administrator).
  • Next, type in the command, “wsreset.exe” and tap Enter. Once you do, the command will clear the cache for the Windows Store app.
  • Now restart your PC and afterward, try opening Microsoft Store again and then try to install your app or update your computer again.

Option 5 – Try to re-register the Microsoft Store app via Windows PowerShell

  • Tap the Win + X key combination or right-click on the Start button and click on the Windows PowerShell (Admin) option.
  • If a User Account Control or UAC prompt appears, just click on Yes to proceed and open the Windows PowerShell window.
  • Next, type in or copy-paste the following command to re-register the Microsoft Store app and tap Enter:
powershell -ExecutionPolicy Unrestricted Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register $Env:SystemRootWinStoreAppxManifest.xml
  • Wait for the process to be completed and then restart your computer.

Option 6 – Try contacting Microsoft

If none of the options worked, you might also want to contact Microsoft for further assistance in fixing the error.
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As you know, the Videos folder can be found under “This PC” by default on your Windows 10 computer. However, as per the reports of some users, there are a few occasions where it somehow gets replaced by the Documents folder. In other words, the Videos folders are replaced by a duplicated copy of the Documents folder. Out of the two Documents folder, one Document folder will contain all the usual files and subfolders while the second one is empty. Although when you click the Documents icon on your Desktop (if you have a shortcut), it will still take you to the right Documents folder. To fix this particular issue and get the Videos folder back in the File Explorer, here are some potential fixes that should help.

Option 1 – Run System Restore

The first thing you can try to do to resolve the problem is to run System Restore. This can help you go back to the previous state of your computer before the issue with the Videos and Documents folder.
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  • Next, go to the System Protection tab then click the System Restore button. This will open a new window where you have to select your preferred System Restore point.
  • After that, follow the on-screen instructions to finish the process and then restart your computer and check if the problem is fixed or not.

Option 2 – Try to restore Defaults

The next thing you can do is to restore Defaults. How? Refer to these steps:
  • Open File Explorer and then right-click on any of the two Documents folders.
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  • Next, copy the address and paste it in the field above the “Find target” option, and then click the “Restore Default” button.

Option 3 – Try to change the Registry Path

  • Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
  • Then type “Regedit” in the field and tap Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  • Next, navigate to this registry path: HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionExplorerUser Shell Folders
  • After that, edit the path for {35286A68-3C57-41A1-BBB1-0EAE73d76C95} under the “User Shell Folders” key to match the path shown for My Videos: %USERPROFILE%Videos.
  • Once you’re done, open the folder under “This PC” that has the Documents icon and tap Shift + right-click in the folder background, and then select the “Open PowerShell window here” option to fix the naming of the Documents folder. The path should read: “C:users<UserName>Documents.
  • Next, execute this command: ri desktop.ini –force
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  • Now all you that’s left to do is to find where the target location is going to be for both folders and check if anyone foes to the user name location.
  • Then delete the one which goes to the incorrect location.
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How to Fix Windows 10 Error C1900107

Error Code C1900107 – What is it?

Error code C1900107 is associated with an issue with upgrading to Windows 10. If you are trying to upgrade your Windows 7, Windows 8, or Windows 8.1 to Windows 10, you might have trouble doing it and you might come across this error C1900107. The error prevents you from upgrading to Windows 10 no matter what you do. Common symptoms of this error:
  • The update process continues for a long time and never ends.
  • The update process ends suddenly and a message says “Failed: 1 update. Errors found: Code C1900107. Windows Update encountered an unknown error.”
  • The update process fails after trying multiple times.

Solution

Restoro box imageError Causes

Following reasons may be responsible for this error:
  • There is not enough space for Windows 10 files in the primary drive
  • There is not enough space in System Reserved Partition
  • Windows 10 files are faulty or corrupt

More Information and Manual Repair

Method 1:

Clean boot Windows 8 and Windows 8.1: Whenever you get some unexpected behavior on your Windows 8, the first thing you should do is try to resolve the issue by taking a diagnostic approach. Plenty of factors can be the cause for issues like slowdowns, BSODs, computer freezes, sudden reboots, etc. The best way to detect the problem is to perform a clean boot. Using a clean boot, you can find out if the Operating System is damaged by some third-party app or bad driver. You can exclude the influence of these factors and prevent them from loading. You should do 2 things before you proceed with the clean boot. First, check if any third-party application is causing the problem. If you disable all third-party apps from startup, it will help eliminate software conflicts.
  • Press the Windows + R on the keyboard. The Run dialog box will pop up.
  • Type MSConfig in the dialog box and click "OK".
  • The System Configuration utility will appear on the screen.
  • On the services tab of the System Configuration dialog box, tap or click to select the Hide all Microsoft services check box, and then tap or click Disable all.
  • On the startup tab of the System Configuration dialog box, tap or click Open Task Manager.
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  • On the startup tab of the System Configuration dialog box, tap or click OK, and then restart the computer.
Now, close MSConfig.

Method 2:

The second step is a Safe boot. Follow the steps below for a safe boot:
  • Press Win + R shortcut keys on your keyboard. The Run dialog will appear on the screen. Type MSConfig and press Enter.
  • The 'System Configuration' application will appear on the screen.
  • Switch to the 'Boot' tab, select your Windows 8.1 entry and tick the 'Safe mode' checkbox.
  • Reboot your PC to enter the Safe mode of Windows 8.1.
  • After you finish troubleshooting in Safe Mode, run MSConfig again from Safe Mode and uncheck the checkbox from step 2.

Method 3:

For this method, you will need to find the $Windows.~BT Folder in your primary drive which is C:. This folder might contain corrupt files which are preventing you from installing Windows 10. The folder is hidden and we need to unhide it. Follow the steps below:
  1. Open File Explorer or alternatively double click on This PC or My Computer.
  2. Now from the top option click on View, The Check the Box that says Hidden items.
  3. Now you will be able to see hidden files and folders. Navigate to C:$Windows.~BT and Rename the folder to something like $Windows.~BT1.
  4. Now, try downloading Windows 10 again. The installation process should go through this time without any errors like code C1900107.
Method 4: If the above methods fail, try this method:
  1. Go to C:\Windows\Software Distribution\Download. Now delete all the files from this download folder. Remember, do not delete the folder itself, and just delete the files.
  2. Now, delete the $Windows.~BT Folder. This might ask you for administrator permission. Simply click yes.
  3. Now try to install or upgrade to Windows 10. This method should work fine and there should be no error code C1900107.
If you do not possess the technical expertise required to accomplish this yourself or do not feel comfortable doing so, download and install a powerful automated tool to get the job done.
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Types of Malware Attacks & How to Battle Them

Afraid of the growing threats online? As you should be. But we’re here to show you what kinds of malware are out there and what you can do to keep them at bay.

Malware definition

Malware comes from the term malicious software. It’s software designed to attack and exploit devices and networks to the advantage of the hacker who made it.

Malware can be transmitted in different ways. Most commonly this happens via infected USB drives, downloadable files or malicious websites. Depending on the type and ultimate goal, the consequences of a malware attack can range from negligible to catastrophic.

Credit: Ed Hardie on Unsplash

What kinds of malware are there?

1. Virus

A virus is typically spread via infected files, websites or links. It’s one of the oldest malware types and one of the most difficult to get rid of. That’s because, once activated, it replicates itself - hence the name. 

It can perform different kinds of attacks, depending on what the creator wants to achieve. The main characteristic of a virus is that it really doesn’t show itself until you activate the host. So that’s a scary thought for sure.

2. Adware

Sometimes an ad blocker isn’t enough to fight off unwanted ads. And some of them can, unfortunately, be malicious. They may redirect you to infected sites or prompt downloads of risky files. Even just opening a malicious site can lead to data theft.

So, definitely be careful when clicking around. Even if an ad seems completely legitimate, you can never be too sure.

3. Ransomware

Through ransomware, cybercriminals gain access to a user’s data and use it to extort them for money. Basically, the user is threatened with data deletion or even exposure if a ransom isn’t paid by a specific deadline.

This is a particularly nerve-wracking type of malware. If it targets an individual, it preys upon their sense of anxiety, fear, guilt and even shame. If it targets a business (which is a lot more common), it preys upon not only that business’s profit but also every single one of their customers and their data.

4. Trojans

This type of malware disguises itself very well as a legitimate-looking program. Once you download it, hackers can get full access and control of your device, data and network. They can even be hidden in games, apps and attachments. They cannot self-replicate, though, so we guess that’s… good news?

5. Worms

Worms can replicate, just like viruses, but you don’t need to actually activate the infected program for them to get going. They can be used for various purposes, ranging from data deletion to file encryption to support a ransomware attack.

Credit: Growtika on Unsplash

6. Spyware

Spyware refers to malicious software that stays hidden on your computer and monitors your activity. The best-known type is keyloggers. This can be used to steal sensitive data like passwords and banking information.

7. Rootkits

Rootkits are among the most dangerous types of malware. They allow administrative access and full control of a device, which lets hackers continue hijacking all your data and monitoring your activity without your knowledge.

8. Botnets

Botnets are networks made up of bots - computers that cybercriminals have infected with malicious software. Bots and botnets give hackers remote access to users’ devices and allow them to spy on your camera, take screenshots, memorize passwords and launch Distributed Denial of Service attacks. This one truly makes your hair stand on end.

What can you do about it?

You know the old adage - better safe than sorry. And trust us, malware attacks are such a pain in the you-know-what that you really don’t want to be sorry.

Luckily, there are simple solutions that can shield you from most digital threats these days. What you want to be looking at is a solid antivirus program. Well, technically, you need an antimalware program, but since the latter evolved from the former, we still mostly refer to them as antivirus software.
The majority of antimalware programs these days don’t just shield you from potential risks online, but include additional features as well. For example, some Bitdefender antivirus packages also include parental control and a VPN. And Bitdefender is not just for PCs either - it offers protection for your beloved iPhone or Android as well. You can throw in a password manager in there too, for an additional layer of security.

Credit: Dan Nelson on Unsplash

If you aren’t too concerned about all these various threats or feel like you don’t need extra security, you can at least take a step to protect your information from being exposed to lurking cybercriminals as you’re browsing. This can be done through a good VPN like Surfshark, which hides your identity in the digital space and prevents your data from being tracked.

Choosing the right protective software is especially important if you have children with access to the Internet, since they’re unfortunately even more vulnerable to malicious attacks. If you aren’t sure what the right kind of antimalware program is right for you, you can reach out to us and we’ll be happy to help keep your entire household or office digitally secure.

The bottom line

The truth is that there’s no way to be 100% protected in the online world. Hackers are constantly coming up with new ways to infiltrate our devices. But malware-battling software evolves along with them and there’s still plenty you can do to keep risks away. Stay safe!

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Edge DevTools An error occurred while ...
In case you don’t know, Microsoft Edge, the new default browser of Windows 10, is equipped with the essential tools that are needed to help web developers in testing their websites in the Edge browser. However, it is not without its flaws as there are instances when you could also encounter some errors when using DevTools. One of these errors is the “An error occurred while starting the profiling session” error. You can see this error message in the DevTools Memory Panel, worry not for this post will help you resolve it. A memory panel is one that primarily measures your memory resource usage and compares heap snapshots in different states of code execution. The Memory panel also provides profiling of three different types, such:
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  • Record Allocation timeline
  • Record Allocation profiles
Using a memory panel, you can find issues that affect the page performance in the most common scenarios like bloats and memory leaks. There are two steps you need to carry out to fix this error that’s associated with the Memory Panel of Microsoft Edge (Chromium) DevTools. First, you need to access the Microsoft (R) Diagnostics Hub Standard Collector Service. Second, you need to restart this service. For detailed steps, follow the instructions provided below. Step 1: Access the Microsoft (R) Diagnostic Standard Collector Service To access the Microsoft (R) Diagnostic Standard Collector Service, follow these steps:
  • Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
  • Then type “services.msc” in the field and hit Enter or click OK.
  • This will open the Services Manager. Here, look for the Microsoft (R) Diagnostic Service from the Services panel that opens on the right-hand side.
Step 2: Now restart the Microsoft (R) Diagnostic Hub Standard Collector Service
  • After accessing the Microsoft (R) Diagnostic Standard Collector Service, right-click on it and select the Restart option.
  • Once it’s done, exit the Microsoft Edge Developer Tools as well as the tab.
  • Next, open a new tab and navigate to your page and tap the F12 key.
  • Now, try to check if profiling begins.
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Fix boot into the next phase of installation
There are various complex tasks that take place under the hood while you upgrade or clean install the Windows operating system on a computer. Because of its complexity, there are times when you might encounter some errors when you upgrade or clean install Windows 10. One of the errors you could encounter is the error that states, “Windows could not prepare the computer to boot into the next phase of installation. To install Windows, restart the installation”. This error does not only occur in Windows 10 as it could also occur on the other versions of Windows. There are a lot of possible causes for this error. It could be due to incompatible BIOS, corrupted system files, improper installation media or it could also be due to excessive hardware plugged into your computer and so on. Whatever the cause is, here are some potential fixes you need to check out to fix the problem.

Option 1 – Try to disconnect or disable newly installed hardware

In this option, you will have to disable or remove the hardware you’ve just installed recently since external devices could be the one that’s causing the Blue Screen of Death error to appear. To do that, just disconnect any external device that’s connected to your computer physically and then check if it fixes the error.

Option 2 – Try to update the BIOS

As you know, the BIOS is a sensitive part of a computer. Even though it is a software component, the functioning of the hardware depends on it largely. Thus, you must be careful when modifying something in the BIOS. So if you don’t know much about it, it’s best if you skip on this option and try the other ones instead. However, if you are well-versed in navigating the BIOS, then follow the steps below.
  • Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
  • Next, type “msinfo32” in the field and press Enter to open System Information.
  • From there, you should find a search field on the bottom where you have to search for the BIOS version and then press Enter.
  • After that, you should see the developer and version of the BIOS installed on your PC.
  • Go to your manufacturer’s website and then download the latest version of BIOS on your computer.
  • If you are using a laptop, make sure that you keep it plugged in until you have updated the BIOS.
  • Now double click on the downloaded file and install the new BIOS version in your computer.
  • Now restart your computer to apply the changes made.

Option 3 – Try to reconfigure all the created partitions

You could also try to reconfigure the partitions by deleting and recreating all the available partitions on your computer and then see if it fixes the problem.

Option 4 – Make a proper bootable USB Drive/Stick

To make a proper bootable USB drive, you need to use the Windows Media Creation tool. The Media Creation tool in Windows allows you to use the ISO installation file to make a bootable device that you can use to install Windows on your PC. Note that this is kind of different from the usual installation process as it could erase your computer’s current settings and data on the primary drive. Thus, before you proceed, you need to backup all your data into some removable drive and then use the Media Creation Tool to make a bootable drive.
  • After making the bootable drive, you need to plug it into your computer and then reboot.
  • Next, tap the F10 or Esc key to open the boot options.
  • Now set the boot priority of the removable drive the highest. Once the setup comes forth, follow the next onscreen instructions and install Windows without any problems.
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Printer not activated, error code 30
If your printer has been working just fine and you suddenly get an error message saying, Printer not activated, error code 30”, then something is definitely wrong and it’s not good especially if you have lots of things to do. Worry not, as this post will help you resolve the printer issue. Simply follow each one of the given options below carefully.

Option 1 – Try running the Printer Troubleshooter

The first thing you can to resolve the printer issue is running the Printer Troubleshooter. This built-in troubleshooter can detect and automatically fix the problem for you. To use it, follow these steps:
  • Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
  • Next, type “msdt.exe /id PrinterDiagnostic” in the field and click OK or hit Enter to open the Printer Troubleshooter.
  • Then click the Next button and follow the next on-screen instructions to fix the issue with the printer.

Option 2 – Check if the concerned printer is set as the default one

It could be that the printer you are trying to use is not set as the default printer. This is mostly the case so to fix the issue, you need to set the concerned printer as default. To do that, follow the steps below.
  • Tap the Win + I keys to open the Settings app.
  • After opening Settings, select Devices from the menu and then click the Printers and scanners option.
  • From there, look for the printer you are using among the list of options. After you find it, click on it and select the Manage option.
  • Now click on the “Set as Default” option to set the printer as default.

Option 3 – Try updating the driver for USB Composite Device

The problem with your printer might also be caused by the USB Composite Device. It could be that the USB Composite Device is acting up. Thus, you need to remove and reinstall it. How? Follow the steps below.
  • First, click the Start button and type “device manager”.
  • Then click on the “Device Manager” from the search results to open it.
  • From there, look for the USB Composite Device option and right-click on it, and select the Update Driver from the options.
  • Restart your PC and then click the “Search automatically for updated driver software” option.
  • Now uninstall and remove the printer driver software and reinstall it then refresh.

Option 4 – Try updating all the drivers for your Printer

  • Tap the Win + R keys to launch Run.
  • Type in devmgmt.msc into the box and tap Enter or click OK to open the Device Manager.
  • After that, a list of device drivers will be displayed. Look for Print queues from the list of drivers displayed and click on it to see all the Printer drivers.
  • Next, right-click on each one of the drivers and select “Update driver” to update the driver. Do it for all the Printer drivers
  • After that, select the “Search automatically for updated driver software” option and then follow the instructions to complete the process.
  • Restart your PC and try printing a document again and see if the “Printer not activated, error code -30” no longer pops up.
Note: You also have the option to go directly to the website of your printer manufacturer and check if there’s a new update – if there is, download it.
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