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Malware in Popular CCleaner

On September 18th, 2017, Cisco’s Talos announced that CCleaner, a popular utility with billions of worldwide users, had been compromised by hackers, and was used to unwittingly distribute hidden malware in its installer. Later in the day, Piriform, the publisher of CCleaner, confirmed the problem.

Undetected by all but 1 major antivirus including CCleaner’s own parent company, this occurred for over a month and impacted over 2.7 million users. Users of CCleaner v5.33.6162 and CCleaner Cloud v1.07.3191 for 32-bit Windows are affected. These downloads were live on CCleaner’s official site from August 15th to September 12th, 2017. Anyone who downloaded the program during this time could be affected.

The company claims that while the hackers set up the backdoor and many users were impacted, that the perpetrators have been arrested and that the malware never successfully performed its full task and compromised user’s PCs or sent out their data; in the wake of recent security breaches such as Equifax, users are understandably worried. Given the severity of the threat of hacking and data theft, users should take action immediately if they have CCleaner.

Technical Details of CCleaner Malware Injection

First reported by Talos, the malware, which was hidden in the CCleaner installer without the publisher noticing (despite them being owned by Avast, a massive Anti-virus company), modified a core program DLL file to evade detection, and creates several registry keys. Not only were these files not flagged by any major Anti-Virus, but they were also even digitally signed by Piriform via their Symantec certificate, meaning your PC and security program would likely whitelist and trust the malicious installer. The malware gathers personal information on a user’s PC, including IP address and running programs, and sends it to a remote server. In our testing, the program sent data to IP 216.126.225.148.

Restore Your PC (If Possible)

As of the publication of this article, there have been no assurances given that updating or even uninstalling CCleaner will remove the malware is installed. The only action thus far has been shutting down the remote server where user data was being sent has been shut down by authorities. For this reason, it is best to remove the underlying malware separately, as its presence represents a serious security threat. Unfortunately, as this could have been installed as far back as August 15th, 2017, your System Restore points may not go back that far, or even if they do, restoring to such an outdated point may cause unintended problems with other programs you use and potentially lost files and data. Manually backing up files and doing a full format or clean Windows installation would likely be successful in fully removing the malware, but is extremely time-consuming and can be difficult for many PC users. Unfortunately, this makes a PC Restore or format an unattainable option for many.

Update CCleaner to the Latest Version

While CCleaner has told users to update to the latest version of the program. Prior to doing so, we recommend fully uninstall CCleaner, ensuring you check its program files folders and registry keys, manually deleting any remnants, and then re-downloading the latest version from the official site and reinstalling clean.

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Fix SearchUI.exe errors inside your Windows
The SearchUI.exe file is the one that manages the search feature of Cortana. However, a number of users have recently reported that this feature stops responding within minutes of booting their Windows 10 computer. This kind of problem could be caused by missing system files or some issues with the Cortana program itself. And so if the SearchUI.exe file is not responding, then you wouldn’t be able to use the search feature of Cortana. But worry not for this post will walk you through fixing this problem. Before you troubleshoot the problem, you can try to restart your computer and see if it helps, if it doesn’t, then proceed to the given options below.

Option 1 – Try to run the Search and Indexing troubleshooter

You might also want to run the Search and Indexing troubleshooter in Windows 10 as it checks whether the settings for Cortana are in place and automatically corrects any issues if the update or software installation has changed the settings. To run it just click on the Start button and select Settings > Updates and Security > Troubleshoot. From there, select the Search and Indexing Troubleshooter.

Option 2 – Restart Cortana’s process in the Task Manager

Restarting Cortana’s process in the Task Manager could also help you resolve the problem. Refer to the steps given below to do so.
  • Tap the Ctrl + Alt + Del keys to open the Security options window.
  • From there, look for the Task Manager in the given list and open it.
  • Next, look for the process of Cortana and right-click on it, and then select the End Task option to end its process.
  • After that, the Cortana process will restart by itself and re-initialize.

Option 3 – Try resetting Cortana

  • Open Cortana and go to the Settings section where you’ll see the “Turning off Cortana clears what Cortana knows on this device, but won’t delete anything from the Notebook. After Cortana is off, you can decide what you’d like to do with anything still stored in the cloud” option. Turn this option off.
  • Restart your PC.
  • After your computer boots, launch Cortana again and check.

Option 4 – Try running the DISM tool

You can try running the Deployment Imaging and Servicing Management or DISM tool to fix the Windows Upgrade problem. Using this built-in tool, you have various options such as the “/ScanHealth”, “/CheckHealth”, and “/RestoreHealth”.
  • Open the Command Prompt with admin privileges.
  • Then type in the following commands and make sure to hit Enter right after you type each one of them:
    • Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
    • Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
    • exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
  • Do not close the window if the process takes a while as it will probably take a few minutes to finish.

Option 5 – Try to reinstall Cortana

If none of the options given above works, you must consider reinstalling Cortana.
  • First, right-click on the Start button and click on the Windows Powershell (Admin) option from the list.
  • Next, type the following command and hit Enter to execute it:
Get-AppXPackage -Name Microsoft.Windows.Cortana | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)AppXManifest.xml"}
  • Restart your computer and check if Cortana is now able to connect.

Option 6 – Try troubleshooting the problem in a Clean Boot State

There are instances that some conflicting programs installed in your computer might be the one that’s causing some issues with Cortana or causing the SearchUI.exe process to stop. To identify which program is causing the problem, you need to put your computer in a Clean Boot State. To do so, follow the steps below.
  • 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 the “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.)
  • From there, start to isolate the problem by checking which one of the programs you installed recently is the root cause of the problem.
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Fix MUP_FILE_SYSTEM Blue Screen Error
If you encounter the MUP_FILE_SYSTEM Blue Screen error with a value of 0c00000103, then it indicates that the multiple UNC provider or MUP has got an invalid of unexpected data. This can lead to the fact that the MUP cannot channel a remote file system request to a network redirector, the UNC, or Universal Naming Convention provider. There are several ways you can fix the MUP_FILE_SYSTEM Blue Screen Error on your Windows 10 computer, you can try to check the hardware of your computer physically, update or rollback some device drivers, run the Driver Verifier Manager, remove any hardware you’ve installed recently or fix issues related to IRQ. Use the given options below as reference to fix the MUP_FILE_SYSTEM Blue Screen Error.

Option 1 – Try to physically check the hardware

The first thing you can do is to check the physical status of the hardware in your computer. You can clean the dust off the hardware components like the Network Card of the computer. You might want to use a small blower or you could also use a soft cloth and run the components gently. Make sure that you don’t damage any parts with moisture or cause harm to any circuits while you carry out this task.

Option 2 – Try to rollback, update several device drivers

You can try to roll back, update or disable certain device drivers on your computer to resolve the MUP_FILE_SYSTEM Blue Screen error.
  • First, boot your computer into Safe Mode.
  • After that, 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. From there, look for the device drivers related to the Network Card, Chipset, Disk Drive, and the Graphics Drivers and any other driver related to MUP.sys and SwapBuffers.sys system files
  • After that, right-click on each entry of the device drivers and select the “Update Device” option from the menu.
  • Now follow the next on-screen instructions that appear and then restart your computer.
  • After restarting your computer, check if the Stop error is now fixed.

Option 3 – Configure the Driver Verifier Manager

The Driver Verifier Manager is another tool in Windows that could help you fix driver-related issues. And so if you want to fix the MUP_FILE_SYSTEM Blue Screen error you need to use the Driver Verifier Manager:
  • Type in the keyword “Verifier” in the Cortana search box to search for Verifier in Windows 10.
  • After that, select the option “Create custom settings”.
  • Make sure that you have checked everything except the options “DDI compliance checking” and “Randomized low resources simulation”.
  • Next, select the option “Select driver names from a list” option.
  • Afterward, you have to select all the drivers from any unofficial or third-party provider. To simply put it, you have to select all the drivers that are not supplied by Microsoft.
  • Then click on the Finish button.
  • Open Command Prompt as administrator and execute this command – verifier /querysettings
  • The command you just executed will display the Driver Verifier settings so if you see any of the flags enabled boot your Windows 10 PC into Safe Mode.
  • Open the Command Prompt as admin again and run this command – verifier /reset
  • The command will reset the Driver Verifier. Once the process is done, restart your PC and check.

Option 4 – 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 MUP_FILE_SYSTEM Blue Screen error.

Option 5 – Try fixing IRQ-related issues

The Stop error might have something to do with an issue related to IRQ. You can verify it by switching your PCI Cards around. Aside from that, you can also check if the IRQ2 is assigned to a COM Port that is unavailable at that time.

Option 6 – Run the Blue Screen Troubleshooter

The Blue Screen troubleshooter is a built-in tool in Windows 10 that helps users in fixing BSOD errors like MUP_FILE_SYSTEM. It can be found in the Settings Troubleshooters page. To use it, refer to these steps:
  • Tap the Win + I keys to open the Settings panel.
  • Then go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
  • From there, look for the option called “Blue Screen” on your right-hand side and then click the “Run the troubleshooter” button to run the Blue Screen Troubleshooter and then follow the next on-screen options. Note that you might have to boot your PC into Safe Mode.

Option 7 – Perform a System Restore

Performing System Restore might help you in fixing the Blue Screen error. You can do this option either by booting into Safe Mode or in System Restore. If you are already in the Advanced Startup Options, just directly select System Restore and proceed with the next steps. And if you have just booted your PC into Safe Mode, refer to the steps below.
  • Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
  • After that, type in “sysdm.cpl” in the field and tap Enter.
  • 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.
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Completely Remove MySearchDial Tutorial

MySearchDial is a browser hijacker that typically comes bundled with free software on the internet. This web platform designed for searching the internet and offers the installation of its software. This software injects itself into browsers and gains access to your settings, browsing data & user information. This data is distributed to the ad providers without limitation. While covered by their EULA, most users will be unaware of what they agree to with checkboxes selected by default. The software also adds a huge amount of registry keys and links throughout the operating system. Since the software injects itself into many personal files, removing the software results in a total reset of your browser settings. For these reasons MySearchDial is classified as potentially unwanted and is flagged for removal by a number of internet security utilities.

About Browser Hijackers

Browser hijacking is a common type of online fraud where your internet browser configuration settings are altered to allow it to carry out things you do not intend. Practically the majority of browser hijackers are created for marketing or advertising purposes. Usually, hijackers are designed for the benefit of online hackers usually through income generation that comes from forced ad clicks and website visits. Even though it may seem naive, these tools are designed by vicious individuals who always look to take full advantage of you, so that hackers can make money from your naive and distraction. Some browser hijackers are designed to make certain modifications beyond the browsers, like altering entries on the computer registry and letting other types of malware further damage your computer.

How you can know if your internet browser is hijacked

There are several symptoms that point to browser hijacking: 1. your browser’s home page has been reset to some unfamiliar website 2. your web browser is constantly being redirected to pornography websites 3. default online search engine is changed 4. discover new toolbars that you simply didn’t add 5. you observe lots of pop-ups on your computer screen 6. your internet browser has become unstable or starts running slowly 7. you’re blocked to access the websites of security solution providers.

So how exactly does a browser hijacker infect a PC

Browser hijackers can enter a computer in some way or other, including via file sharing, downloads, and e-mail also. They could also come from add-on applications, also called browser helper objects (BHO), web browser extensions, or toolbars. Other times you may have inadvertently accepted a browser hijacker as part of an application package (generally freeware or shareware). Examples of popular browser hijackers are Fireball, Ask Toolbar, GoSave, CoolWebSearch, Babylon Toolbar, and RocketTab. The existence of any browser hijacker malware on your system might significantly diminish the web browsing experience, track your internet activities that lead to severe privacy concerns, degrade overall system efficiency, and lead to software instability as well.

Getting rid of browser hijackers

Some hijackers could be removed by deleting the free software they were included with or by removing any add-ons you have recently added to your computer system. But, most hijackers are hard to remove manually. Regardless of how much you attempt to get rid of it, it can return over and over again. On top of that, manual removal needs you to execute many time-consuming and complicated actions which are very difficult to carry out for rookie computer users.

Can't Install Safebytes Anti-malware because of a Virus? Do This!

All malware is bad and the effects of the damage could differ based on the specific type of malicious software. Certain malware types alter web browser settings by adding a proxy server or change the PC’s DNS configurations. When this happens, you’ll be unable to visit certain or all sites, and therefore not able to download or install the required security software to remove the malware. If you’re reading this now, you may have probably recognized that virus infection is the reason for your blocked web traffic. So what do if you need to download and install an antivirus application like Safebytes? Although this kind of problem can be difficult to circumvent, there are a few actions you can take.

Install the anti-virus in Safe Mode

If the malware is set to run at Windows startup, then booting in Safe Mode should prevent it. Only minimal required programs and services are loaded when you start your computer or laptop in Safe Mode. To launch your Windows XP, Vista, or 7 PCs in Safe Mode with Networking, do as instructed below. 1) Press the F8 key repeatedly as soon as your computer boots, but before the big Windows logo or black screen with white texts shows up. This will bring up the Advanced Boot Options menu. 2) Use the arrow keys to choose Safe Mode with Networking and press ENTER. 3) Once you get into this mode, you should have access to the internet once again. Now, get the virus removal application you need by using the internet browser. To install the application, follow the guidelines in the installation wizard. 4) As soon as the application is installed, let the scan run to remove viruses and other malware automatically.

Utilize an alternate web browser to download an anti-malware program

Malicious program code might exploit vulnerabilities on a specific internet browser and block access to all anti-virus software websites. If you appear to have a virus attached to Internet Explorer, then switch over to an alternate browser with built-in security features, such as Chrome or Firefox, to download your favorite anti-malware program – Safebytes.

Run antivirus from a pen drive

Another approach is to download and transfer antivirus software from a clean computer to run a virus scan on the affected system. Abide by these steps to run the anti-virus on the affected computer system. 1) Make use of another virus-free computer to download Safebytes Anti-Malware. 2) Plug the Flash drive into the clean computer. 3) Run the setup program by double-clicking the executable file of the downloaded software, with a .exe file extension. 4) When asked, select the location of the USB drive as the place where you would like to store the software files. Follow the on-screen instructions to finish the installation. 5) Transfer the USB drive from the clean computer to the infected computer. 6) Double click the Safebytes Anti-malware icon on the thumb drive to run the application. 7) Click on the “Scan Now” button to start the virus scan.

SafeBytes Anti-Malware Features

In order to protect your computer or laptop from many different internet-based threats, it is very important to install an anti-malware application on your PC. However, with countless numbers anti-malware companies in the market, nowadays it is actually difficult to decide which one you should purchase for your PC. Some of them do a good job in getting rid of threats while some will damage your PC themselves. You have to choose a product that has got a good reputation and detects not just computer viruses but other sorts of malware too. When considering commercial antimalware software options, most people choose well-known brands, such as SafeBytes, and are very happy with it. SafeBytes antimalware is a highly effective and easy-to-use protection tool that is ideal for end-users of all levels of IT literacy. Using its outstanding protection system, this tool will instantly detect and remove most of the security threats, including viruses, adware, browser hijackers, PUPs, trojans, worms, and ransomware. SafeBytes carries a plethora of amazing features which can help you protect your laptop or computer from malware attack and damage. The following are some popular features found in this software program: Real-time Active Protection: SafeBytes gives complete and real-time security for your personal machine. They’re highly effective in screening and getting rid of various threats because they’re constantly revised with the latest updates and safety measures. Most Reliable AntiMalware Protection: Safebytes is made on the very best virus engine in the industry. These engines will identify and remove threats even during the early stages of a malware outbreak. Internet Security: SafeBytes gives an instant safety rating on the pages you’re going to visit, automatically blocking risky sites and making sure that you’re certain of your safety while browsing the net. Lightweight: SafeBytes provides total protection from internet threats at a fraction of the CPU load because of its advanced detection engine and algorithms. 24/7 Online Tech Support: Support service is readily available for 24 x 7 x 365 days through email and chats to answer your queries.

Technical Details and Manual Removal (Advanced Users)

If you wish to manually remove MySearchDial 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 browser extensions, going to the browsers AddOn/Extension manager and removing it. You will likely also want to reset your browser. To ensure the complete removal, manually check your hard drive and registry for all of the following and remove or reset the values accordingly. Please note that this is for advanced users only and may be difficult, with incorrect file removal causing additional PC errors. In addition, some malware is capable of replicating or preventing deletion. Doing this in Safe Mode is advised.

The following files, folders, and registry entries are created or modified by MySearchDial

Files: %PROGRAMFILES%Mysearchdialbhmysearchdial.dll. %PROGRAMFILES%MysearchdialescortShld.dll. %PROGRAMFILES%MysearchdialmysearchdialApp.dll. %PROGRAMFILES%MysearchdialmysearchdialEng.dll. %PROGRAMFILES%Mysearchdialmysearchdialsrv.exe. %PROGRAMFILES%MysearchdialmysearchdialTlbr.dll. %PROGRAMFILES%MysearchdialSqlite3.dll. %APPDATA%MozillaFirefoxProfilesENV(mysearchdial_path)[email protected]. %APPDATA%mysearchdialmysearchdial. %APPDATA%mysearchdial. %PROGRAMFILES%Mysearchdialbh. %PROGRAMFILES%Mysearchdial. Registry: Key HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT named esrv.mysearchdialESrvc.1 Key HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT named esrv.mysearchdialESrvc Key HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT named mysearchdial.mysearchdialappCore.1 Key HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT named mysearchdial.mysearchdialappCore Key HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT named mysearchdial.mysearchdialdskBnd.1 Key HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT named mysearchdial.mysearchdialdskBnd Key HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT named mysearchdial.mysearchdialHlpr.1 Key HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT named mysearchdial.mysearchdialHlpr Key 0400EBCA-042C-4000-AA89-9713FBEDB671 at HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTInterface. Key 0BD19251-4B4B-4B94-AB16-617106245BB7 at HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTInterface. Key 219046AE-358F-4CF1-B1FD-2B4DE83642A8 at HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftInternet ExplorerLow RightsElevationPolicy. Key 3004627E-F8E9-4E8B-909D-316753CBA923 at HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTCLSID. Key 3281114F-BCAB-45E3-80D9-A6CD64D4E636 at HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTInterface. Key 44533FCB-F9FB-436A-8B6B-CF637B2D465A at HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTInterface. Key 44B29DDD-CF7A-454A-A275-A322A398D93F at HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTInterface. Key 4ED063C9-4A0B-4B44-A9DC-23AFF424A0D3 at HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTCLSID. Key 82E74373-58AB-47EB-B0F0-A1D82BB8EB5C at HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTCLSID. Key A4DE94DB-DF03-45A3-8A5D-D1B7464B242D at HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTInterface. Key AA0F50A8-2618-4AE4-A779-9F7378555A8F at HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTInterface. Key B2DB115C-8278-4947-9A07-57B53D1C4215 at HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTInterface. Key B97FC455-DB33-431D-84DB-6F1514110BD5 at HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTInterface. Key C67281E0-78F5-4E49-9FAE-4B1B2ADAF17B at HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTInterface. Key D40753C7-8A59-4C1F-BE88-C300F4624D5B at HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTCLSID. Key E72E9312-0367-4216-BFC7-21485FA8390B at HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTInterface. Key EF5625A3-37AB-4BDB-9875-2A3D91CD0DFD at HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTCLSID. Key EF5625A3-37AB-4BDB-9875-2A3D91CD0DFD at HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionExplorerBrowser Helper Objects. Key F6CCB6C9-127E-44AE-8552-B94356F39FFE at HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTInterface. Key FBC322D5-407E-4854-8C0B-555B951FD8E3 at HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTTypeLib. Key FFD25630-2734-4AE9-88E6-21BF6525F3FE at HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTInterface. Key mysearchdial at HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftware. Key mysearchdial at HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareInstallCore. Key mysearchdial at HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWARE. Key mysearchdial at HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREInstallCore. Value 3004627E-F8E9-4E8B-909D-316753CBA923 at HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftInternet ExplorerToolbar.
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Enable or disable Fast User Switching
When your computer is slow, you don’t have much choice but to wait until it gets done with a task at its own pace, albeit a slow one. So if you want to switch user accounts on your computer a couple of times daily, then a slow computer can get really irritating. What makes system processes slow is that the accounts have some programs or applications running and resources allocated to them. And besides, if your computer is already low on performance, it will kill the natural fluidic flow of the user. But worry not, for this post will guide you in switching user accounts with the help of some minor tweaks in your Windows 10 computer. To disable or enable Fast User Switching, you have two methods to do that using the Registry Editor and the Group Policy Editor. Either way, refer to the instructions laid out below.

Option 1 – Enable or disable Fast User Switching via Registry Editor

  • Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
  • After that, type “Regedit” in the field and tap Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  • Next, go to this registry key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionPoliciesSystem
  • Then right-click on System and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value and name this newly created DWORD as “HideFastUserSwitching”.
  • Now double click on it. If you want to enable Fast User Switching, input “0” as the value, and if you want to disable it, input “1” as its value.
  • Restart your PC to successfully apply the changes made.

Option 2 – Enable or disable Fast User Switching via Group Policy Editor

Take note that this option will not work if you are using the Windows 10 Home edition since the Group Policy Editor does not come with Windows 10 Home. Refer to the steps below to enable or disable Fast User Switching using Group Policy Editor.
  • Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box and then type in “gpedit.msc” in the field and hit Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.
  • Next, navigate to this path inside the Group Policy Editor: Computer ConfigurationAdministrative TemplatesSystemLogon
  • Now double click on the configuration listing labeled as “Hide entry points for Fast User Switching” to open the configuration page.
Note: On the configuration page, you will see the following description:
“This policy setting allows you to hide the Switch User interface in the Logon UI, the Start menu, and the Task Manager. If you enable this policy setting, the Switch User interface is hidden from the user who is attempting to log on or is logged on to the computer that has this policy applied. The locations that the Switch User interface appears in the Logon UI, the Start menu, and the Task Manager. If you disable or do not configure this policy setting, the Switch User interface is accessible to the user in the three locations.”
  • From there, you can choose to enable or disable the Fast User Switching depending on your preferences. After you’ve selected, click OK and exit the Group Policy Editor.
  • Now restart your PC to apply the changes made successfully.
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Blinking or Flashing Desktop After login - Windows 10 Upgrade

Blinking or Flashing Desktop After login - What does it mean?

Upon updating to Windows 10, some users might encounter a blinking or flashing desktop after logging in. This will result in a repetitive restarting of explorer or you won’t be able to make the start menu and shortcut keys work. In addition, the network icon might not appear in your taskbar as well. Other Windows 10 error messages include error code 0xc000021a.

Solution

Restoro box imageError Causes

Your blinking or flashing desktop after logging in might be the result of problems with the bushell.dll shell extension, which is a part of the Norton Security Suite. Another possible cause for this annoying problem is an issue with your display driver since not all systems will use the same display driver and will depend on what graphics card you use.

Further Information and Manual Repair

In fixing the bothersome blinking or flashing desktop after logging in problem, you can do a manual repair method to address the root problem. You need to be familiar with the Windows command line to successfully go through the process. However, if you are not knowledgeable or confident enough to do this on your own, it would be best to seek help from a professional. Or, you might want to consider using an automated tool to solve the issue.

You need to identify first what’s causing the blinking or flashing of your desktop after login to properly address the issue. The following methods can be done if your issue is caused by bushell.dll shell extension issue:

Method One: Forcefully Terminate Process

  1. Press on Ctrl+Alt+Del then select Task manager
  2. Start a Command Prompt as an administrator by choosing the File menu then Run New Task.
  3. Type exe. Make sure to tick the checkbox “Create this task with administrative privileges.”

NOTE: Text input is most probably affected by the explorer restarts so you might need to repeatedly type some letters or to carefully input texts.

  1. In the Command Prompt, type taskkill /f /im explorer.exe. This will stop the blinking or flashing.
  2. Type cd “Program Files” afterward, type dir /s bushell.dll to locate where the dll is. (For example, purposes, use c:\program files\Norton Security Suite\Engine6422.5.2.15 as the location)
  3. If the dll file is not found, you can try repeating step 5 but this time, use “Program Files (x86)” However, you can proceed with the next step if you already located where the bushell.dll is.
  4. Type cd ”c:\program files\Norton Security Suite\Engine 6422.5.2.15” to change the name of the directory you found the dll in.
  5. Type ren bushell.dll bushell-crash.dll
  6. Restart now the system by typing shutdown /r /f /t o in the command line.

Method Two: Uninstall Programs

  1. Log out then go to the sign in screen
  2. Press the Shift key as you simultaneously click on the Power button on the screen.
  3. Continue pressing on the Shift key as you click
  4. Continue pressing on the Shift key as you wait for the Advanced Recovery Options menu to appear.
  5. Once the Advance Recovery Options menu appears, click on Troubleshoot then select Advanced options.
  6. Click on the Startup Settings then select
  7. Boot on Safe Mode by pressing 4 on your keyboard.
  8. Log in then press Windows key + X.
  9. Select the Device Manager then expand Display Adapter.
  10. On your Display Adapter, right-click then select
  11. Exit Device Manager
  12. If in case you also have an older Antivirus utility, you should uninstall it as well.
  13. Restart

NOTE: You might need to download the latest Video Driver on a working computer. Save it in a thumb drive then copy and install it on your computer. If in case there is no native Windows 10 driver, you can also download the latest Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 video driver. Afterward, install it in compatibility mode.

Method Three: Use Microsoft System Configuration Utility

  1. Log out then go to the sign in screen
  2. Press the Shift key as you simultaneously click on the Power button on the screen.
  3. Continue pressing on the Shift key as you click
  4. Continue pressing on the Shift key as you wait for the Advanced Recovery Options menu to appear.
  5. Once the Advance Recovery Options menu appears, click on Troubleshoot then select Advanced options.
  6. Click on the Startup Settings then select
  7. Boot on Safe Mode but this time, choose 5 to start in Safe Mode with networking.
  8. Check if your problem is present or not in Safe Mode. If not, then you are on the right track.
  9. Press on the Windows key + R then type msconfig to start up your exe file.
  10. Click on the Services tab then choose Disable All. Afterward, click on
  11. Once you’re prompted to reboot your computer, go ahead and reboot in Normal Mode. Check if the issue is still present.
  12. If the blinking or flashing desktop after login is gone, then you can just do a process of elimination.
  13. Start-up on your exe again then begin bringing up services a few at a time.
  14. You can turn on all other services except for the following which causes the blinking or flashing desktop after login problem: Problem Reports and Solutions Control Panel Support •Windows Error Reporting Service.
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Watch Marvel Universe in chronological order
marvelSo far I believe each person on this planet has at least heard of Marvel superhero movies, perhaps even watched a few of them, and no wonder. Movies are spawning now over 20 titles and they are not really released as events described in them. Throw into mix TV series and you can get confused pretty fast. Now it was officially stated that all TV series that were released before Wanda vision is no canon in Marvel cinematic universe which simplify thing a little but there are still series that are.

So without further blabbering around here is a list of Marvels films and TV series in chronological order:

  • Captain America: The First Avenger
  • Captain Marvel
  • Iron Man
  • Iron Man 2
  • The Incredible Hulk
  • Thor
  • The Avengers
  • Iron Man 3
  • Thor: The Dark World
  • Captain America: The Winter Soldier
  • Guardians of the Galaxy
  • Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2
  • Avengers: Age of Ultron
  • Ant-Man
  • Captain America: Civil War
  • Spider-Man: Homecoming
  • Doctor Strange
  • Black Panther
  • Thor: Ragnarok
  • Ant-Man and The Wasp
  • Black Widow
  • Avengers: Infinity War
  • Avengers: Endgame
  • WandaVision
  • The Falcon and The Winter Soldier
  • Spiderman: Far From Home
  • Loki
And there you go, if you have someone who has not yet seen movies or you would like to view that as the story is revealed and not by the date they were released now you can easily with this list.
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Signs of a dying graphic card
Can graphic cards wear out over a longer period of time? Recent studies and experience from crypto miners say no but they can die due to different reasons like improper use, low cleaning habits, factory mistakes, etc. Many gamers and people who use GPU intense applications tend to think that some glitches and hiccups in the software are a sign that graphic card is dying out and that it is time to be replaced. Altho this could be true in many cases these kinds of behavior are mostly due to old drivers and software issues. Older cards can produce these kinds of results due to their old age and new software is often more demanding than these cards can handle. So in order to diagnose and be sure that your GPU is indeed dying out lookout for these signs.

The Main Signs of a Dying GPU:

The Computer Crashes and Won’t Reboot

If your computer shutdown while working in the graphic application or while playing the game and the monitor loses signal there is a high chance the graphic card is soon going to be gone. Some motherboards have hardware detection failure and can signal immediate fail. If when turning your computer ON you are greeted with a blue screen with the message that the signal can not be found or you do not have picture at all it is most likely that GPU has failed.

Graphic Glitches While Playing Games

If you are playing the game and all of sudden you get off-color pixels, screen flickering, strange graphic behaviors, random artifacts, or similar and that keeps repeating in multiple games it is likely that GPU days are coming to an end.

Abnormal Fan Noise or Performance

Fans are an essential part of cooling the GPU and over time if they are intensively used they could wear out and need replacing. If however you have not noticed and have not replaced the fans card can sustain overheating damage. Many cards have cooling fans that are designed to spin at a higher RPM only when the GPU is under load. It prevents bearings in the fans from dying prematurely, so don’t worry if one of your fans is inactive while you are browsing the web. However, when you play games that utilize software that your card isn’t built to support, the bearings in the fans wear out faster. Once the fans stop working under load, the graphics card can quickly die.

How to Diagnose a Dying Graphics Card

Presented next are essential steps in order to recognize a dying graphic card.

Check Motherboard Error Codes

Many motherboards today completely shut down a component that is no longer working. If your graphics card has died completely, this may be one of the easiest ways to tell. If your motherboard doesn’t have display codes, you can try testing the card in a new system.
  • Open the computer case: Use your screwdriver to remove screws on the side panel and gently slide it back.
  • Locate the error code display on your motherboard: If you have a motherboard with error codes, they should appear near an outer corner.
  • Try to reboot your computer: Record each error number you see after you boot your computer.
  • Consult the motherboard manufacturer manual for error codes: Open the manual and locate the list for your error codes. If the code matches a graphics processing unit error, your video card could have died.

Check Hardware for Damage or Debris

A graphics card that has damage or debris on the physical parts might quickly overheat and kill the card.
  • Remove the screws holding the GPU in place: There are typically one or two screws holding the card to a bracket on the case.
  • Unhook the power cords from the GPU and pull the release tab: Remove the power cords from your GPU by pushing in their tabs and gently rocking them out. Once you remove each cord, gently push or pull up on the release tab near the motherboard.
  • Inspect the GPU for damage/debris: Check the card for any dirt or debris buildup and clean it out with a Q-tip. You can replace broken fan pieces from the manufacturer.

Test Your GPU Under Load

Download GPU stress-testing and heat-monitoring software.
  • With the card installed, run a stress test.
  • As you are running the stress test, run heat-monitoring software: With the stress test running, check your heat-monitoring software for GPU overheating. Any reading over 80 degrees Celsius is too hot.
  • Check device manager for outdated drivers: If your GPU is clean, but still running too hot, your software drivers are not installed correctly. To check, type in “device manager” at the bottom of your desktop and click on Device Manager. Find your display adapter and right-click on it to see if it’s working. If your drivers are not working correctly, it is indicated here usually. However, the driver may appear to be functioning even if it says otherwise in the properties.

Keep your graphic card drivers updated

When you don’t have the right driver installed, graphics cards can quickly burn up, and their cooling components may fail faster. That’s why you should always keep drivers updated for each new game you install or play. Older games may also release new software patches, so your GPU drivers should be updated accordingly.
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How to Fix 0x80070643 Error Code

What is the Ox80070643 Error Code?

The 0x80070643 error is a Windows Update error. It may appear on your computers due to several reasons.  Though this error does not pose any harmful threats to your system it is still advisable to fix it to ensure your system works perfectly and there are no installation issues.

Solution

Restoro box imageError Causes

The error 0x80070643 error code is usually triggered:
  • When the MSI software update registration fails
  • .NET framework installation becomes corrupted on your PC
Though it does not cause any serious damages it is advisable to repair this issue as it may hamper your ability to install updates on your PC.

Further Information and Manual Repair

If you experience the error 0x80070643 on your PC, you don’t have to panic. This error is rated as easy to resolve. All you have to do to fix this error is to uninstall and reinstall the .NET Framework. Here is a step by step guide to repairing the error 0x80070643:
  1. First close all the currently running programs on your PC
  2. Then go to the start menu and click on the control panel. After you click on it you will see a Programs option here.
  3. Now click on Programs and then click ‘Programs and Features
  4. Under the Programs and Features section, you will see lots of programs. Double click on Microsoft .Net Framework 4 Client Profile.
  5. Now as you double click on it a dialog box will open in front of the screen with 2 options Repair .Net Framework 4 Client Profile to its original state and the other option would be Remove.Net Framework 4 Client profile from this computer. Click on the first option that says Repair.
  6. After clicking on the Repair tab, click ‘Next’ and then click ‘Finish’. This shows that the .NET Framework is repaired.
  7. Now to bring the changes into effect, restart your PC and reboot.
  8. After rebooting it, go to the start menu again and type Windows Update in the search box.
  9. Click ‘Windows update’ to check for and install updates.
Follow these steps to resolve the 0x80070643 error code issue immediately. Nonetheless, to avoid the error 0x80070643 from occurring again, it is suggested that you download the Windows Update tool. This helps keep your system updated. By updating the latest vulnerability and performance improvements on your PC, you can ensure your PC works smoothly and is not exposed to such errors and threats.
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Fix Error 0164, Memory size decreased
Computer upgrades are the most common and most efficient ones. RAM upgrade is one of the easiest ones you can do and the most common ones but even as simple an upgrade as this one can cause certain issues. If you are experiencing error 0164, memory size decreased after RAM upgrade we are offering you solutions on how to fix this particular error and get your computer back in working order.
  1. Change BIOS settings

    Enter your motherboard BIOS (usually by pressing the del key on startup) Load BIOS defaults Save changes and exit If the Error 0164: Memory size decreased issue persists even after loading setup defaults, then it must be configured manually inside the BIOS.
  2. Clear CMOS

    Follow the instructions precisely:
    • Turn off all peripheral devices connected to the computer.
    • Disconnect the power cord from the AC power source.
    • Remove the computer cover.
    • Find the battery on the board. The battery may be in a horizontal or vertical battery holder or connected to an onboard header with a wire.
    If the battery is in a holder, note the orientation of the + and – on the battery. With a medium flat-blade screwdriver, gently pry the battery-free from its connector. If the battery is connected to an onboard header with a wire, disconnect the wire from the onboard header.
    • Wait one hour, then reconnect the battery.
    • Put the computer cover back on.
    • Plug the computer and all devices back in.
    • Power on the computer.
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Fix fatal error C0000034 applying update
Fatal error C0000034 happens during the installation of the Windows update and if you are one of the unlucky users who sadly run into this, keep reading as we will provide solutions to this error and how to get around it. Start from point 1 to the bottom and hopefully you will have your PC back into working order in no time.
  1. Run Windows Update troubleshooter

    Usually, a built-in Windows troubleshooter can solve issues painlessly and fast, my advice is to try this as the first option, it is a simple and clean solution worth trying and in 90% it solves the issue all by itself.
  2. Do a clean boot

    Using task manager, remove all nonessential applications and services from starting up, reboot your computer, and once it is cleanly booted try re-running the update process again, if the issue was running the application this time everything will work since the problematic application is not running.
  3. Reset Windows update components to the default

    This solution requires you to use the Reset Windows Update Agent Tool to reset Windows Update components to default or use this PowerShell script to reset Windows Update Client. You can also manually reset each Windows Update component to default and then re-run the update.
  4. Disable firewall and antivirus

    Altho not likely it is still a possibility that some firewalls and antivirus can detect windows updates as malicious software and cut them off. If everything else failed, disable the firewall and your PC protection and when it is fully disabled try updating.
  5. Do automatic startup repair

    This should be the last thing to do but if everything else failed, do it. Perform Windows 10 Startup Repair. Once the startup repair completes successfully, you can re-run the update. The update should install without errors.
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