Steam is a game store behemoth that offers more titles than any other game store online, take that along with the fact that steam was one of the first online dedicated stores for games and you can guess that many people have a steam account, buy and play games on it. It is a platform where you can meet new people in games and add them as friends on steam so you can spend some time together. But happens if you want to have friends on Steam but you would like to hide your game activity? Or even if you want to go fully private on Steam so no one can find you so you can play whatever you want without paying and judging eyes?
Luckily Valve appreciates your privacy and offers ways to do exactly this. Keep on reading on how to set up your privacy settings in Steam.
Hiding Steam game activity
Launch Steam on your PC.
Go to the top bar of Steam and click on your name.
Select Profile from the context menu.
Click on the Edit Profile button present at the right section of the window.
Next, click on the My Privacy Settings button.
Now, the Privacy Settings page will be opened.
Scroll down and go to the My Profile section.
Open the drop-down list given next to the Game Details and select the Private option.
Now, check if this process is working or not. For this, right-click anywhere on the blank space in the Steam screen > choose the Copy Page URL option.
Then, open a browser and paste the copied page URL in the address bar and check whether your Steam game activity is hidden or not.
Making profile private
Launch Steam > click on your name > select Profile from the menu list.
Click on the Edit Profile > My Privacy Settings button.
Go to the My Profile and open the dropdown menu.
Click on the Private option.
Now, the changes will be saved automatically.
If you would like to read more helpful articles and tips about various software and hardware visit errortools.com daily.
If you suddenly encounter an error message that says, “This webpage is not available, Err_Connection_Closed” while browsing the internet or visiting a website and the website fails to load, then it means that there is some problem with your network connection. Similarly, you may also get other error messages like “Err_Network_Changed”, “Err_Connection_Reset” and “Err_Internet_Disconnected” errors in different browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
The problem lies in your Windows 10 computer and your internet connection since this is a network issue. So before you troubleshoot the problem using the suggestions given below, you need to refresh your browser first or you could also tap Ctrl + F5 on your keyboard to hard reload the webpage. If you’re still getting the same error message, then proceed to the guide below.
Option 1 – Try removing the Proxy
Removing the Proxy might also help you in fixing the “This webpage is not available, Err_Connection_Closed” error. Here’s how you can do it:
Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
Then type “inetcpl.cpl” in the field and hit Enter to pull up the Internet Properties.
After that, go to the Connections tab and select the LAN settings.
From there. Uncheck the “Use a Proxy Server” option for your LAN and then make sure that the “Automatically detect settings” option is checked.
Now click the OK and the Apply buttons.
Restart your PC.
Note: If you are using a third-party proxy service, you have to disable it.
Option 2 – Try using Google Public DNS
If the first option didn’t resolve the issue, you can try to use the Public DNS by Google and see if it can help fix the problem. You have to modify the DNS settings in your system explicitly and use the DNS IP addresses.
The first thing you have to do is right-click on the network icon in the Taskbar and select Network and Sharing Center.
Next, click on the “Change Adapter Settings” option.
After that, search for the network connection that you are using to connect to the internet. Note that the option might be “Wireless Connection” or “Local Area Connection”.
Right-click on your network connection and click on Properties.
Then select the new window to choose the “Internet Protocol 4 (TCP/IPv4)” option.
After that, click on the Properties button and click the checkbox in the new window for the option “Use the following DNS server addresses”.
Type in “8.8.8.8” and “8.8.4.4” and click OK and exit.
Option 3 – Reset Winsock, TCP/IP & Flush DNS
Resetting Winsock, TCP/IP, and flushing DNS might help you resolve the Err_Connection_Closed error. To do so, follow these steps:
Right-click on the Start button and click on Command Prompt (administrator) so you can pull up an elevated Command Prompt.
After that, execute each one of the commands listed below. And after you typed in one after the other, you have to hit Enter.
netsh winsock reset – type in this command to reset Winsock
netsh int ip reset resettcpip.txt – type in this command to reset TCP/IP
ipconfig /flushdns – type in this command to flush the DNS cache
Next, restart your PC and check if the problem’s fixed.
Option 4 – Disable both the Antivirus program and Firewall temporarily
There are times when antivirus programs and the firewall blocks a website that they consider to be malicious or even because of false-positive effects which is why you have to disable these programs temporarily as it might be the reason why you’re getting the “This webpage is not available, Err_Connection_Closed” error when trying to browse the internet.
Option 5 – Try to check the network cables and then restart your router
The most obvious thing you can do first is to try checking if the network cables connected to your computer or router are properly connected or not. If it turns out that some network cables are not connected properly, then it’s probably why you’re getting this error.
Option 6 –Try a Network Reset
When all else fails, you might have to consider resetting your entire network settings. Simply follow the steps below to do so.
Click on the Start button and then click on the gear-like icon for Settings to open it.
Next, select Network and Internet.
Then scroll down and look for “Network Reset” – click on it and then click on the Reset now button.
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.
New Tab Aid is an extension for Google Chrome. It is published by Spigot Inc. It is classified as a potentially unwanted browser hijacker as it injects Yahoo search into your new tab windows. This extension also adds recently viewed tabs under the search bar. It also redirects all your searches to Yahoo instead of your default browser search engine. It is often found bundled with other software found on the internet and not installed directly by the user. For these reasons, numerous anti-malware utilities flag New Tab Aid as potentially unwanted or malicious.
About Browser Hijackers
Browser hijackers (sometimes called hijackware) are a kind of malicious software that changes internet browser configurations without the user’s knowledge or permission. These types of hijacks appear to be increasing at an alarming rate around the world, and they could be actually nefarious and often harmful too. Browser hijackers could do more than just modifying homepages. The idea is to force users to visit specific websites that are looking to improve their website visitor traffic and produce higher ad earnings. Even though it may seem naive, all browser hijackers are damaging and therefore always regarded as security risks. Browser hijackers can even allow other vicious programs without your knowledge to further damage your personal computer.
Major signs that your web browser has been hijacked
There are numerous signs of browser hijacking:
1. the home page of your respective web browser is changed all of a sudden2. you see new unwanted bookmarks or favorites added, typically directed to advertisement-filled or pornography sites3. the default web browser settings are changed and/or your default web engine is altered4. unwanted new toolbars are added to your browser5. you observe numerous ads show up on your browsers or computer screen6. your web browser gets sluggish, buggy crashes regularly7. Inability to navigate to particular websites, particularly anti-malware and other security software sites.
How does a browser hijacker infect a computer?
Browser hijackers might use drive-by downloads or file-sharing networks or even an email attachment in order to reach a targeted computer. Many web browser hijackings come from add-on applications, i.e., toolbars, browser helper objects (BHO), or plug-ins added to browsers to provide them additional features. Browser hijackers sneak into your computer in addition to free software application downloads also that you unintentionally install alongside the original. Popular examples of browser hijackers include Conduit, CoolWebSearch, Coupon Server, OneWebSearch, RocketTab, Searchult.com, Snap.do, and Delta Search.
Browser hijacking can result in severe privacy issues and also identity theft, affect your browsing experience by taking control of outgoing traffic, substantially slows down your personal computer by consuming a lot of resources, and cause system instability also.
How to fix a browser hijack
Certain browser hijacking could be quite easily stopped by discovering and eliminating the corresponding malware software through your control panel. However, most hijackers are hard to get rid of manually. No matter how much you attempt to remove it, it may come back again and again. Moreover, browser hijackers could modify the Windows registry therefore it can be very hard to repair manually, particularly when you’re not a very tech-savvy individual.
Virus Blocking Access To Safebytes Site And Preventing Anti-Malware Downloads - What To Do?
Malware can cause all kinds of damage if they invade your computer, from stealing sensitive information to deleting files on your computer system. Certain malware goes to great lengths to stop you from installing anything on your computer system, especially anti-malware software programs. If you’re reading this, you probably have affected by malware that prevents you from installing a computer security application like Safebytes Anti-Malware. Although this sort of issue will be tougher to get around, there are a few actions you can take.
Eliminate malware in Safe Mode
If any malware is set to load immediately when Microsoft Windows starts, getting into Safe Mode could block this attempt. Just minimal required applications and services are loaded whenever you start your personal computer into Safe Mode. The following are the steps you need to follow to take out viruses in Safemode.
1) Tap the F8 key repeatedly as soon as your PC boots, however, before the large Windows logo shows up. This should bring up the Advanced Boot Options menu.2) Select Safe Mode with Networking with arrow keys and hit ENTER.3) When this mode loads, you should have the internet. Now, obtain the malware removal application you want by using the web browser. To install the software, follow the directions within the installation wizard.4) Once the application is installed, let the diagnostic scan run to eliminate viruses and other threats automatically.
Switch over to an alternate browser
Malicious program code may exploit vulnerabilities on a particular browser and block access to all anti-malware software sites. The most effective solution to avoid this issue is to choose a browser that is well known for its security measures. Firefox contains built-in Malware and Phishing Protection to keep you safe online.
Install and run antivirus from your USB drive
Another way is to download and transfer an antivirus application from a clean computer to run a scan on the affected system. Do these simple measures to clean up your affected computer using a portable antivirus.
1) Download the anti-malware program on a virus-free computer.2) Insert the USB drive on the same system.3) Double-click the exe file to open the installation wizard.4) When asked, select the location of the pen drive as the place in which you want to put the software files. Follow the instructions on the computer screen to finish off the installation process.5) Now, transfer the USB drive to the infected computer.6) Double-click the Safebytes Anti-malware icon on the pen drive to run the software.7) Run Full System Scan to detect and get rid of all sorts of malware.
Ensure the Safety of Your PC by Installing SafeBytes Anti-Malware
These days, anti-malware software can protect your computer from various types of internet threats. But exactly how to decide on the best one among many malware protection application that is available on the market? As you might be aware, there are several anti-malware companies and products for you to consider. Some of them are good, some are ok types, and some will destroy your computer themselves! When searching for antimalware software, pick one that provides reliable, efficient, and full protection against all known viruses and malware. One of the highly recommended software by industry experts is SafeBytes Anti-Malware, the most dependable program for Microsoft Windows.
SafeBytes anti-malware is a powerful, very effective protection tool designed to assist end-users of all levels of computer literacy in detecting and eliminating malicious threats out of their computer. This program could easily detect, remove, and protect your computer from the most advanced malware attacks including spyware, adware, trojan horses, ransomware, parasites, worms, PUPs, along with other possibly damaging software programs.
SafeBytes has excellent features when compared to various other anti-malware programs. Let’s look into some of them below:
Active Protection: Malware programs trying to get into the computer are discovered and stopped as and when detected by the SafeBytes real-time protection shields. This tool will constantly monitor your computer for any suspicious activity and updates itself continuously to keep current with the latest threats.
Antimalware Protection: With its enhanced and sophisticated algorithm, this malware removal tool can identify and remove the malware threats hiding in your PC effectively.
Web Security: Safebytes allots all websites a unique safety rating that helps you to get an idea of whether the webpage you’re about to visit is safe to browse or known to be a phishing site.
Lightweight: SafeBytes is well known for its minimal impact on computer resources and great detection rate of diverse threats. It operates quietly and efficiently in the background so you are free to utilize your personal computer at full power all of the time.
24/7 Customer Service: For any technical concerns or product assistance, you can get 24/7 professional assistance through chat and email.
Technical Details and Manual Removal (Advanced Users)
If you wish to manually remove NewTabAid 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 NewTabAid
One of the important processes in the Windows operating system is the Setting Synchronization or SettingSyncHost.exe. This process is the one responsible for synchronizing the settings of your computer with other devices. It is the one that replicates settings like OneDrive, Internet Explorer, wallpapers, and so on, to other systems. However, it has been known to cause high CPU usage in Windows 10 and there are times when it causes the system to freeze or system lags. So if you notice that the SettingSyncHost.exe process is causing high CPU usage in your computer, worry not for this post will guide you in fixing them.
You have to be cautious when you notice high CPU usages caused by system processes since cybercriminals mostly set the names of viruses in a way that the system or the user won’t be able to identify them. Cyber crooks could name the virus and malware the same as one of the system processes like SettingSyncHost.exe to make it seem like it’s a legitimate process. Thus, you need to keep in mind that original system processes like the SettingSyncHost.exe file are located in the System32 folder.
The original SettingSyncHost.exe file is located in the System32 folder. To check for the same, right-click on the troublesome process in the Task Manager and select Open file location. If the place is any other than the System32 folder, run a full system anti-virus scan on the system.
The SettingSyncHost.exe causes high CPU usage when it gets stuck in the sync process and is not able to come out of the loop. To fix this problem, you need to follow the solutions offered below but before you proceed, make sure that you create a System Restore point first.
Option 1 – Apply some registry tweak
The first thing you can do is to apply some tweaks to the Windows Registry. To get started, follow these steps:
Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run utility and type “Regedit” in the field and then tap Enter to open the Registry Editor.
Next, navigate to this registry path: HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftInputPersonalizationTrainedDataStore
From there, right-click on the key and select Permissions.
After that, check the box next to “Allow” for Full Permission for every user group.
Now click on the Apply and OK buttons to save the changes made.
Then restart your computer.
Option 2 – Close the Host process for setting synchronization
If the registry tweak didn’t work, you can try to close the host process for setting synchronization, especially if this process continues to hog resources. You can terminate this process by opening the Task Manager. From there, end the process or task of the host process. On the other hand, you can also turn off the Host process for synchronization by opening Settings > Accounts > Sync settings located in the left pane. After that, turn off the Sync setting.
Option 3 – Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter or the Performance Troubleshooter
Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter:
The first thing you need to do is click on Start and then on the gear-like icon to pull up the window for Settings.
After opening Settings, look for the Update and Security option and select it.
From there, go to the Troubleshoot option located on the left-hand side of the list.
Next, select Hardware and Devices from the list and open the Troubleshooter and run it. Once it is doing its job, wait for it to complete the process and then restart the system.
After the system restarts, check if the problem’s now fixed. If not, refer to the next option given below.
Performance Troubleshooter:
Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
Type “exe /id PerformanceDiagnostic” in the field and hit Enter to open the Performance troubleshooter.
Then click on Next to get started. Wait until the process is completed.
Option 4 – Try scanning your computer using Windows Defender
As mentioned, it is possible that the SettingSyncHost.exe could be infected with a virus or malware. To eliminate it, you have to scan your computer using security programs like Windows Defender.
Tap the Win + I keys to open Update & Security.
Then click on the Windows Security option and open Windows Defender Security Center.
Next, click on Virus & threat protection > Run a new advanced scan.
Now make sure that Full Scan is selected from the menu and then click the Scan Now button to get started.
If you encounter a blank page with an error message saying, “Origin Error” when you try to load a webpage, then this post will surely help you resolve this error. As you can see, this error is a very uncommon one and it is not about the popular game known as Origin where all you have to do is reinstall the client.
Although this error message is a very uncommon one, you will see a blank page with a message saying, “Origin Error” when you attempt to load a webpage. To fix this error, this post will provide you some potential fixes that might help. Follow the fixes given below carefully and see which one fixes the problem.
Option 1 – Use Ctrl + F5 keys to clear browser cache
The first thing you can try is to “Hard Refresh” to clear the cache of your browsers. You can do that by using the Ctrl + F5 keys on your keyboard. On the other hand, you can also clear the cache manually for Chrome, Edge, and Firefox.
Option 2 – Remove the Proxy
You might also want to try removing the Proxy as it could also help you in fixing the Origin error. Here’s how you can do it:
Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
Then type “inetcpl.cpl” in the field and hit Enter to pull up the Internet Properties.
After that, go to the Connections tab and select the LAN settings.
From there. Uncheck the “Use a Proxy Server” option for your LAN and then make sure that the “Automatically detect settings” option is checked.
Now click the OK and the Apply buttons.
Restart your PC.
Note: If you are using a third-party proxy service, you have to disable it.
Option 3 – Try to flush the DNS, reset Winsock and the TCP/IP
You might also want to flush the DNS and reset Winsock as well as reset TCP/IP as it could help in fixing the Origin error. To do so, refer to these steps:
Click the Start button and type in “command prompt” in the field.
From the search results that appear, right-click on Command Prompt and select the “Run as administrator” option.
After opening Command Prompt, you have to type each one of the commands listed below. Just make sure that after you type each command, you hit Enter
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /all
ipconfig /flushdns
ipconfig /renew
netsh int ip set dns
netsh winsock reset
After you key in the commands listed above, the DNS cache will be flushed and the Winsock, as well as the TCP/IP, will reset.
Now restart your computer and open Google Chrome then try opening the website you were trying to open earlier.
Option 4 – Try using Google Public DNS
You might want to try changing your current DNS to the Google Public DNS. All you have to do is change the DNS settings explicitly on your operating system by using the DNS IP addresses. Here’s are the steps to do that:
The first thing you have to do is right-click on the network icon in the Taskbar and select Network and Sharing Center.
Next, click on the “Change Adapter Settings” option.
After that, search for the network connection that you are using to connect to the internet. Note that the option might be “Wireless Connection” or “Local Area Connection”.
Right-click on your network connection and click on Properties.
Then select the new window to choose the “Internet Protocol 4 (TCP/IPv4)” option.
After that, click on the Properties button and click the checkbox in the new window for the option “Use the following DNS server addresses”.
Type in “8.8.8” and “8.8.4.4” and click OK and exit.
The Windows Defender program can both scan and monitor almost the entire folder on a Windows 10 computer. So if you have a folder that may have files that could trigger an alarm to Windows Security, then it would be better if you add an exclusion to Windows Security.
Note that it is okay to do this as long as you’re certain that the contents of the folder you want to exclude are safe and that Windows Defender is only throwing out warnings for nothing. This way, Windows Defender won’t scan those folders in the future. And besides, there are also some Windows folders and files that you may exclude from the Antivirus scans, especially if you want to save your scan time. This kind of feature also comes in handy when you trust a file type or folder or any process that you believe is safe but the Windows Security considers as malicious.
To exclude a folder or a file or process or a file type from the Windows Security scan, here are some steps you can follow. Make sure to do them carefully.
Step 1: Search for “Windows Security” in the Search box and then click on it from the search results to open it.
Step 2: Next, click on Virus & threat protection > Manage settings > Add or remove exclusions.
Step 3: After that, on the next screen, click on Add an exclusion > Folder. It will show you a list that includes File, Folder, File Type, and Process.
Step 4: Now click on “+Add and exclusion” on the next window and then select a folder you want to exclude and click OK to add it in the Exclusions list.
Step 5: Click on the down arrow button to remove it and then click on the Remove button.
Note: If you want to only ignore a few file types, it’s better if you configure your antivirus program to ignore these files with a specific extension. This way, it will ignore all of them no matter what their location is. Also keep in mind that when you select a folder, all the subfolders in it will also be excluded from the scan. Thus, you need to understand what you’re about to do. Once you’re done excluding the folder, it is recommended that you protect the folder using the Controlled Folder Access since this folder is not monitored for threat. The Controlled Folder Access will ensure that an external program does not alter it. This way, you can be sure that even though this folder is not included in the scan, it is still secure.
In case you don’t know, the Windows Script Host provides capabilities such as batch files but it also includes many other features like it can be used by a user manual as well as created by the operating system to automate the flow of operations in the system. However, there are a lot of errors that could take place in such a process. One of them is the following error:
“Script: <PATH of the VBS Script>Line: xChar: xError: The description of the error.Code: xxxxxxxxSource: (Source of the error)”
At the time of writing, it isn’t clear yet what the root cause of the error really is but there are several potential fixes you can check out to fix it. You can try to run the System File Checker or set the default value for the .vbs key, or troubleshoot the problem in a Clean Boot State. You could also try to repair Install Windows 10 or scan your computer for malware. For more detailed instructions refer to the following options.
Option 1 – Try to run a System File Checker scan
In the Windows Start Search, type “command prompt” and right-click on Command Prompt from the search results, and then select the “Run as administrator” option.
After opening Command Prompt with admin privileges, type the “sfc /scannow” and tap Enter to execute it.
Once the scan is finished, restart your computer and see if the Windows Script Host error.
Option 2 – Try setting the default value for the .vbs key
Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box and type “Regedit” in the field and tap Enter to open the Registry Editor.
Next, navigate to this registry path: ComputerHKEY_CLASSES_ROOT.vbs
From there, double click on the default string and change its Value data to “VBSFile”.
Exit the Registry Editor and restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
Option 3 – Try troubleshooting the problem in a Clean Boot State
Setting your computer in a Clean Boot State can help you diagnose and later troubleshoot the problems in your computer. During this state, the system will start with a minimal number of drivers and startup programs that help in isolating the problem with the interfering software. To put your computer in a Clean Boot State, follow the given steps below.
Log onto your computer 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.
Option 4 – Try to repair install Windows 10
First, you have to click this link and then click the Download Tool Now button.
Next, click the “Use the tool to create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file)…” option and follow the next given instructions on the screen.
Now select the ISO file option in step 5.
After that, you should now have an ISO file.
Next, go to the location where you’ve downloaded the ISO file.
Then right-click on the Windows 10 ISO file and select the Open with option and then select File Explorer.
Now click on “setup.exe” and follow the next instructions that appear on the screen. When asked, you have to select either Nothing (clean install) or Keep personal files only option. Take note that you must not select the “Keep personal files, apps, and Windows settings”.
Option 5 – Try scanning your computer using Windows Defender
It is possible that your computer is infected with malware which could be why you’re getting the Windows Host Script error. Thus, you need to scan your computer using Windows Defender.
Tap the Win + I keys to open Update & Security.
Then click on the Windows Security option and open Windows Defender Security Center.
Next, click on Virus & threat protection > Run a new advanced scan.
Now make sure that Full Scan is selected from the menu and then click the Scan Now button to get started.
As you know, Windows 10 supports a variety of peripherals which includes a long list of printers. However, a number of users reported that they encountered a glitch on their Windows 10 computers where they receive Can’t print a file and a prompt to save the Word, PDF file, and so on each time they try to print the file. This kind of issue is not common and could be due to various reasons like the malfunctioning of device drivers, misconfiguration of the printer’s settings, and so on.
There are several options you can check out to resolve the problem. You can try to run the built-in troubleshooter or check the configuration of the printer, as well as update or reinstall the driver for printers or reset the printer. For more details, refer to each one of the options provided below and make sure to follow them carefully.
Option 1 – Run the Printer Troubleshooter
One of the first basic troubleshooting you can perform 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 “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 – Try checking the printer’s configuration
The next thing you can do to fix the problem is to check the configuration of the printer since there are instances when there could be some misconfiguration with the settings of the printer that may result in several issues like this one.
First, you need to open Control Panel and from there, look for the option Devices and printers and open it.
After that, right-click on the entry of your printer that you want to use in printing documents and select the Set as a default printer option.
You could also try to open PDF and then go to the Print dialog box and uncheck the Print to file option.
Option 3 – Try to update or reinstall the printer driver
The problem with your printer might also be caused by corrupted or outdated drivers. Thus, you can try to either update or 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 to reset the settings of the Printer or reinstall it
If none of the three options given above worked, you can try to either reset the printer settings or reinstall the printer so that it can go back to its default state. However, if it doesn’t work, you can try to uninstall the printer as well as its related drivers. To do so, follow these steps:
First, go to Settings > Devices > Printer and Scanners.
After that, select the printer and select the Remove Device option.
Once done, restart your computer and check again and see if the error is now fixed.
Error code 0xc004f050 refers to a problem with activating the Windows key. The problem appears when you try to activate a copy of Windows by using Windows Activation wizard. This happens when the system becomes unstable and critical system files start missing. Though Windows 10 is a free upgrade for Windows 7/Windows 8/Windows 8.1 users, the activation error is still an issue. If you already had Windows 7/Windows 8/Windows 8.1 activated and did an upgrade successfully, then there should be no problem. This Problem Occurs only when you do a clean install.
Symptoms
When you try to activate a copy of Windows Vista or Windows 7 by using the Windows Activation wizard, you receive an error similar to the one below:
An error has occurredCode:0xC004F050Description:The Software Licensing Service reported that the product key is invalid
Solution
Error Causes
This causes due to an invalid product key.
This problem may occur if the license validity interval has expired, or if the license is not signed correctly.
Error Code 0xc004f050 occurs when the system becomes unstable and critical system files start missing.
Improper way of installing, deletion of some very important system files, misconfigured system files, etc. may also cause this error.
When you do a clean install, it wipes everything from the Primary Drive and after the install, windows can't find the Hardware ID which is used to verify your license.
For Windows 7, Windows Server 2008, and Windows Vista-based computers, this error may occur if you have entered the key for a beta version of the operating system while using the released version of the operating system.
Further Information and Manual Repair
This error is not something that can be fixed in seconds but will require some time and technical knowledge.
Method 1:
Re-insert the product key by using the Change Product Key tool:
Click Start, click Computer, and then click System properties on the toolbar.
In the Windows activation section, click Change product key.
If you are prompted for an administrator password, type the password or click Continue.
In the Product key box, type the product key, and then click Next.
Follow the steps in the Windows Activation Wizard to complete the activation process.
Method 2:
Activate Windows by using the automated telephone system:
Click Start, and then click Computer.
Click System properties on the toolbar, and then click Click here to activate Windows now in the Windows activation
If you are prompted for an administrative password, type it and click Continue.
Click Show me other ways to Activate.
Click Use the automated phone system and follow the instructions.
Method 3:
Clean install Windows 7/Windows 8/Windows 8.1 using the installation disk and activate your copy.
Now, download all the updates to see the Windows 10 Upgrade notification or download Windows Media Creation Tool and use the option Upgrade this PC to get Windows 10 right away.
Once the upgrade is done, check the Activation Status. It will be fully activated as it should be. The Error code 0xc004f050 should not appear anymore.
If you want to get rid of the old Windows installation folder, then use the Windows Media Creation Tool to create a Flash Drive. Clean Install Windows 10. Now, every time when it asks for a product key, skip it. After installation is complete, Windows will automatically identify and activate your Copy.
NOTE: Clean Install will make Sure you cannot roll back to your previous Windows 7 or Windows 8. So do it only if you are confident of using Windows 10 from here on.
To verify the Windows activation status, follow these steps:
Click the Start button, and then click Computer.
Click System properties on the toolbar, and then view the activation status in the Windows activation section.
This error 80070490 code may occur when you try to update your PC either through the Microsoft Update website or with a Windows update. The error message is displayed in the following format:
Error 80070490 (Element not found)
Solution
Error Causes
Error Code 80070490 is triggered because of a couple of reasons. It indicates the file CBS Manifest that is needed to install Windows update is corrupt or damaged.
CBS (Component Based Servicing) Manifest is the file that is used to help your computer recognize various components inside your PC.
Another reason for error occurrence is registry corruption.
If the registry that stores all the information and activities performed is not cleaned frequently, the obsolete files saved in the registry like the junk files, bad entries and cookies eventually accumulate and corrupt it thereby generating such error codes.
Further Information and Manual Repair
Here are some effective and proven methods that you can try by yourself to resolve error code 80070490 on your PC.
Method 1 - Use the System Update Readiness Tool
Download the System Update Readiness Tool from the Windows website and run it on your PC.
This tool is designed to detect and scan for abnormalities and inconsistencies that could be preventing and causing problems during the system update.
Once you have downloaded and scanned your PC, try to install the updates again. If the error still persists, try other methods illustrated below.
Method 2 - Repair Windows
Here are the steps that you need to follow to repair Windows:
First, close all programs and then reboot your PC. Insert the Windows DVD into the computer’s disk drive and wait for the setup to begin.
If for any reason, the setup doesn’t start automatically, then don’t worry simply click start, then type Drive: setup.exe in the search box. Please note, in the drive insert the letter of your computer’s DVD drive for example D:setup.exe.
Now in the programs list, click setup.exe And then click install now.
After that click ‘go online to obtain the latest updates for installation’, if you are asked for the Windows Product Key, then simply type it to proceed.
In the ‘Which kind of Installation do you want?’ option, click Upgrade.
When the Windows installation is complete, restart your PC and then run Windows update.
Method 3 - Clean the Registry
If the cause of error code 80070490 on your PC is related to registry corruption, then it is advisable to download Restoro. This is an advanced and easy-to-use PC Repair Tool embedded with a registry cleaner.
The registry cleaner scans your entire PC, removes all obsolete and unnecessary files corrupting the registry, and cleans it right away.
Click here to download Restoro to repair error code 80070490
