If you suddenly encounter a PNP_DETECTED_FATAL_ERROR Blue Screen error, then this post can help you out. The PNP_DETECTED_FATAL_ERROR BSOD usually occurs when any new hardware that is mostly the Plug and Play type is attached. In such cases, when the device is plugged, and the driver for that device crashes or isn’t found or is not compatible, you will most likely encounter this particular BSOD error. There are several error codes that come under this category, some of them are 0x000000CA (0x01681690, 0xEA96A7BE, 0x938A81AD, 0xF8362881. This BSOD error can also occur at any time. However, the only constant thing here is when you plug a PNP device like earphones, microphones, USB drives, and many more. The PNP_DETECTED_FATAL_ERROR bug check has a value of 0x000000CA which indicates that the Plug and Play Manager encountered some severe error which is most likely have something to do with a problematic Plug and Play driver. To fix this error, here are some possible solutions that could help.

Option 1 – 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 PNP_DETECTED_FATAL_ERROR Blue Screen error. It can be found on 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 2 – Try disabling or removing 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 PNP_DETECTED_FATAL_ERROR Blue Screen error.

Option 3 – Try disabling BIOS Memory options namely Caching Shadowing

Disabling the BIOS Memory options such as Caching and Shadowing can help you in fixing the PNP_DETECTED_FATAL_ERROR Blue Screen error. All you have to do is enter the BIOS first and then use the Arrow and Enter keys to select your choices. And if you can’t seem to find it, look for specific instructions from your OEM or you could also look out for instructions from the manufacturer of your motherboard.

Option 4 – Try to run the CHKDSK utility

Running the CHKDSK utility might also help you resolve the PNP_DETECTED_FATAL_ERROR Blue Screen error. If your hard drive has issues with integrity, the update will really fail as the system will think that it’s not healthy and that’s where the CHKDSK utility comes in. The CHKDSK utility repairs hard drive errors that might be causing the problem.

• Open Command Prompt with admin privileges.
• After opening Command Prompt, execute the following command and hit Enter:

chkdsk /f /r

• Wait for the process to be completed and then restart your computer.

Option 5 – Try to uninstall programs you’ve installed recently

Chances are, some programs that you just installed might be the one that’s causing the BSOD error. Thus, you need to uninstall the program to resolve the problem.

• In the search box, type in “control” and then click on Control Panel (desktop app) among the search results.
• After that, select Programs and Features from the list which will give you a list of all the programs installed on your computer.
• From there, look for the concerned program and select it and then uninstall it.

Option 6 – Update the Device drivers

• Tap the Win + R keys to launch Run.
• Type in devmgmt.msc into the box and tap Enter or click OK to open the Device Manager.
• After that, a list of device drivers will be displayed. Look for the device driver you and then select either “Update driver” or “Uninstall device”. And if you find any “Unknown device”, you need to update it as well.
• Select the “Search automatically for updated driver software” option and then follow the instructions to complete the process.
• If you have chosen to uninstall the driver, follow the screen options to complete the process and then restart your PC.
• Connect the device and Scan for hardware changes – you can see this option under Device Manager > Action.

Option 7 – Perform a System Restore

Performing System Restore might help you in fixing the PNP_DETECTED_FATAL_ERROR 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.

The Internet has come a long way from its infant stages and has become so large and huge that it has gained the status of basic human rights. There are very useful information and a lot of great content on it and among them, there are social media websites and other types of websites where you have, most likely placed some personal pictures or other information. One day you might want to cancel some of the services or you would like to take a break from it all. In this guide we will show you how to do exactly that, to delete and remove your data from the internet.

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How to Delete Your Google Account

Google is arguably one of the most visited places on the Web. It stores a huge amount of data for delivering personalized content. It saves personal information, web searches, watched videos, location data, etc. You can view a summary of the data saved by different Google services by visiting your Google Dashboard. To delete personal data from Google, go to myactivity.google.com. Select the Delete activity by from the left menu to start deleting activities. Select All time to delete all of your activities from different Google services. You can also delete files saved to Google services, such as Google Photos, Google Drive, and Keep. Just visit the site, select the files, and delete them. Note that Google retains some information even after you delete all data. They do this to meet business needs and legal requirements. These will be deleted when you delete your Google account altogether.

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How to Delete Your Facebook Account

Facebook stores a huge amount of data for each user. Some of the personal information stored in Facebook’s databases includes name and email, check-ins, location, images, videos, events, etc. You can view and download all of your personal data using Facebook’s information download tool. However, you will need to delete your account altogether for removing your personal data from Facebook. Follow the below steps to delete your Facebook account.

1. Log in to your Facebook account and go to Settings & privacy > Setttings.
2. Select Your Facebook Information.
3. Select Deactivation and Deletion.
4. Select Delete Account.
5. Select Continue to Account Deletion.
6. Select Delete Account.
7. Enter your password and click Continue.

It can take up to 90 days for Facebook to delete your personal data from the Internet. You will not be able to access any of the data once the deletion starts. However, you can cancel this within the first 30 days.

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How to Delete Your Twitter Account

Twitter has also followed in the footsteps of Facebook when it comes to harvesting your personal data. It utilizes this information for delivering personalized ads and tweets. You can download an archive of all of your personal data from Twitter. It makes it easy to monitor what information is available to the platform. Click the More button from the left menu and head over to Settings and privacy. Follow the below steps to download your personal information.

1. Select Download an archive of your data from the Your Account section.
2. Select Request archive from under the Twitter data section. Enter your password when prompted.
3. It will take some time for Twitter to make the data available to you. You’ll receive an email once the data is ready to be downloaded.

It would be best if you also restrict data sharing and off-site activities. Head over to Privacy and safety and inspect the options under the Data sharing and off-Twitter activity section. Look in the Interests and Your advertiser list sections from the Ads preferences tab. You can disable Twitter from tracking you in the Off-Twitter activity tab. Uncheck the options from the Data sharing with business partners and Location information tabs. Finally, you need to deactivate your account for deleting all personal information from Twitter. You’ll have 30 days to reactivate the account. After that, Twitter will begin erasing your information from its systems. Note that they can still retain some information subjected to platform regulations.

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How to Delete Your Instagram Account

Instagram has risen to prominence in the last couple of years. The company collects a huge amount of personal information from its users, including media, name, email, and much more. You’ll need to deactivate your account altogether if you want to delete everything Instagram knows about you. Head over to the Delete your account page and select the reason you want to delete it. Enter your Instagram password to verify your identity, then click on the Delete button. Instagram will hide your account details for the next 30 days and delete all personal data after the given period.

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How to Delete Your TikTok Account

TikTok is another emerging platform that has become quite popular among millennials. Users share a lot of personal information through personalized music videos. You need to delete your TikTok account permanently to remove all personal data from TikTok. To do this, head over to Me, then tap on the … icon in the top-right corner of the window. Select Delete account from under the Manage Account section. Follow the instructions provided there to continue deactivating your account. Like Instagram, TikTok also offers a 30-day time period to allow users to change their minds. It will delete your personal data from the Internet after this period.

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How to Delete Your Snapchat Account

1. Go to Snapchat’s Accounts Portal and log in with your name and password.
2. Select the Delete My Account option.
3. You’ll be taken to the Delete Account page directly.
4. Retype your password once more.
5. Click on the yellow Continue button.

Do keep in mind that Snapchat will hold on to your data for another 30 days, just in case you change your mind and decide to return. If you do decide to come back, all you need to do is visit the Accounts Portal again and log in to your account. This will reactivate your account. While your account is in this deactivated phase, your friends will not be able to contact you or interact with you in any manner on Snapchat. After the 30-day period has elapsed, your account will be permanently deleted.

Error 501 - What is it?

Error 501 is an error code that sometimes may occur while you are using Internet Explorer on your Windows PC. The error message is displayed as:

'Error 501: Not implemented or not supported.'

Solution

Error Causes

It is difficult to narrow down the ultimate cause of error 501. This is because this error code can be triggered by multiple reasons such as:

• Third-party confliction or due to an incorrect HTTP 1.1 setting
• Improper program installation
• Changes in the “LocalAccountTokenFilterPolicy” registry key
• Corrupted Registry Database

Further Information and Manual Repair

The occurrence of this error regardless of what the cause is may cause a lot of inconvenience to you. And if not fixed on the time it can lead to system failure too. To repair the error 501, identifying the cause for the error really helps. By identifying the cause, you can easily select the most suitable solution to fix it.

Let us walk you through the solutions to fix error 501 timely:

Cause: Third-party conflicts or due to an incorrect HTTP 1.1 setting

Solution: If the above cause is the reason for error 501, this means the Local Policy Rights Settings have been altered. And because of that, Windows is not running your desired program. To solve this error simply log on to Windows as an administrator. Then run local computer policy snap-in. Open it and click on the computer configuration. Here you will see the Windows settings option. Click on it and then open security settings, local policies, and click on properties. Now in the add users section select the user which you want to add to the policy and save by pressing OK. After you’ve made changes, now try using internet explorer again. If this is the cause for the error pop, the error will not occur. If it still occurs then this means there is some other underlying cause for the error. Read on to find out.

Cause: Improper Program Installation

Solution: Error 501 may also occur due to improper program installation. The best way to resolve it is to uninstall recently installed programs.

Cause: Changes in the “LocalAccountTokenFilterPolicy” registry key

Solution: Sometimes during installation registry keys also get damaged or changed. If changes in the LocalAccountTokenFilterPolicy” registry key is the issue, then you need to alter the registry key ‘LocalAccountTokenFilterPolicy settings and its value. This key inside the registry database allows Windows to control the various access options that you have. However, due to wrong settings, it denies access and shows error 501 when you open Internet Explorer. To alter registry key settings can be tricky and complex if you are not a computer programmer. In such as scenario it is advisable to download Restoro. This is a user-friendly and multi-functional repair tool embedded with a powerful register cleaner. In addition to this, it also functions as anti-virus and a system optimizer.

Restoro Solution

Restoro is simple and easy to use. To operate this tool on your PC and to reset registry settings you don’t need any technical expertise or sound knowledge. Its smooth navigation makes it easy for users to scan and repair errors like 501 due to registry misconfiguration in seconds.  With this helper, you don’t have to modify Windows registry settings manually. It will do it automatically. Furthermore, if Error 501 is triggered by a corrupted registry database, you can run it to repair this issue too. It cleans and wipes out all the unnecessary and obsolete files that could be corrupting your registry. This includes junk files, internet history, and invalid registry entries. It clears up your hard disk space and repairs your corrupted registry. If your PC’s registry is damaged due to malicious software like viruses and malware, then it uses advanced antivirus to remove them from your system. It has a value-adding backup feature that enables you to create a backup of your files for data safety and recovery in case of loss during repair. Restoro is compatible with all Windows versions.

Starting with Restoro

Here are 3 simple steps to get started:

1. Click here to download Restoro.
2. Once the installation is complete, run it to scan for errors
3. After scanning the errors, simply click repair to resolve the issues including the error code 501.

Along with fixing error code 501 triggered by registry damage, it also repairs all other PC-related issues. It helps maintain a stable and error-free system for the longest time.

The error code 0X8019019A is shown when a user fails to add his Yahoo account to the Mail app due to the outdated or corrupt installation of the Mail app. Not using an App-specific but a normal Yahoo account password may also result in the error at hand. In this guide, we will show you how to effectively fix this error so you can set up Yahoo mail.

1. Reboot PC

   Perform a restart of your system to rule out a temporary glitch in the system. Also, check if you can successfully access your email through a web browser using the same credentials as you are using with the Mail app. Additionally, make sure that no VPN or proxy server is being used to access the internet (VPN/proxy may work fine with the web version of Yahoo mail but may hinder the access through a mail client).

2. Update Windows and the Mail App to the Latest Build

   If your system is not updated to the latest build it can create incompatibility between the OS modules. Updating the Windows and Mail app of your system to the latest build may solve the problem.

3. Re-add the Yahoo Account to the Mail App

   The Yahoo account issue could be a result of a temporary glitch in the communication modules of the system. The glitch may get cleared if you remove and then re-add the Yahoo account to the Mail app.

4. Reset the Mail App to the Defaults

   You may fail to add the Yahoo account to the Mail app if the installation of Mail itself is corrupt. In this scenario, resetting the Mail app to the defaults may solve the problem.

5. Generate an App Password and Use it to Add the Yahoo Account to the Mail App

   Yahoo has implemented tons of security features to its accounts. One such feature is the use of app-specific passwords for less secure apps like the Mail app. If your Yahoo username or password is not working with the Mail app, then using the App-specific password may solve the problem.

Easy Home Decorating is a Browser Extension for Google Chrome. It offers users tips and tricks on how to manage your home decoration, you can find ideas for certain rooms, combine and plan. This might seem useful at the start, however, all this extension does is add a toolbar that links you to the most popular Home Decor Websites that you can find on any Search engine within seconds.

When installed it changes your default search engine and new tab page to MyWay.com or Ask.com (depending on the extension version). It monitors user browsing activity in the background, allowing it to gather visited websites, clicked links, search queries, and other user information. This data is later sent/sold to better target ads.

While using this extension you will see additional ads and sponsored content displaying throughout your browsing sessions. Several anti-virus applications have marked this extension as a Browser Hijacker and a potential security flaw and are therefore not recommended to keep on your computer.

About Browser Hijackers

Browser hijackers (sometimes referred to as hijackware) are a type of malware that modifies web browser configurations without the user’s knowledge or approval. These hijacks happen to be increasing at an alarming rate worldwide, and it could be actually nefarious and sometimes harmful too. Browser hijacker malware is developed for many different reasons. These are generally used to force visitors to a particular website, manipulating web traffic to earn ad revenue. It might seem naive, but the majority of these websites are not legitimate and can present a serious risk to your online safety. Moreover, hijackers could make the whole infected system vulnerable – other destructive malware and viruses would use these opportunities to get into your computer effortlessly.

How one can know if your browser has been hijacked

Here are some signs and symptoms that suggest you’ve been hijacked: your web browser’s home page is suddenly different; if you enter a URL, you find yourself regularly directed to a different site than the one you meant; the default online search engine is modified; unsolicited new toolbars are added to your web browser; you see a lot of pop-up ads on your computer screen; your web browser gets slow, buggy, crashes frequently; you can’t visit specific websites like home pages of security software.

How does a computer get infected with a browser hijacker?

Browser hijackers infect computer systems in numerous ways, including through a drive-by download, a file-share, or an infected email. They can also come from any BHO, extension, add-on, toolbar, or plug-in with malicious purpose. Other times you might have inadvertently accepted a browser hijacker as part of a software bundle (generally freeware or shareware). Examples of well-known browser hijackers are Fireball, GoSave, Ask Toolbar, CoolWebSearch, Babylon Toolbar, and RocketTab. Browser hijackers could affect the user’s web browsing experience significantly, monitor the websites visited by users and steal private information, cause difficulty in connecting to the web, and finally create stability problems, causing programs and systems to freeze.

How you can fix a browser hijack

Certain kinds of browser hijackers can be effortlessly removed from your PC by deleting malicious software applications or any other recently installed shareware. But, many hijackers are very hard to identify or eliminate as they might get themselves associated with some important computer files which allow it to operate as a necessary operating system process. Rookie computer users should never try the manual form of removal methods since it requires comprehensive computer knowledge to carry out repairs on the computer registry and HOSTS file. Anti-malware application is really efficient with regards to picking up and removing browser hijackers that normal anti-virus application has overlooked. To eradicate any kind of browser hijacker from your PC, you can download this certified malware removal program – SafeBytes Anti-Malware. Employ a system optimizer (like Total System Care) together with your antivirus software to solve various registry issues, remove system vulnerabilities, and improve your computer's overall performance.

How To Install Safebytes Anti-Malware On An Infected PC

All malware is bad, but certain kinds of malware do much more damage to your PC than others. Some malware is designed to restrict or prevent things that you wish to do on your personal computer. It may well not permit you to download anything from the net or prevent you from accessing some or all of the websites, especially the anti-virus sites. If you’re reading this article, you probably have got infected by a virus that prevents you from downloading a computer security program such as Safebytes Antimalware on your PC. There are some steps you can take to get around this issue.

Install in Safe Mode

The Windows OS has got a special mode known as “Safe Mode” in which just the bare minimum required programs and services are loaded. If the malware is blocking access to the internet and affecting your PC, running it in Safe Mode allows you to download antivirus and run a scan while limiting possible damage. In order to get into Safe Mode or Safe Mode with Networking, press the F8 key while the computer is starting up or run MSCONFIG and locate the “Safe Boot” options in the “Boot” tab. Once you are in Safe Mode, you can attempt to download and install your antivirus program without the hindrance of the malicious software. Now, you can run the antivirus scan to eliminate viruses and malware without any interference from another application.

Switch to an alternate internet browser

Web-based malware could be environment-specific, aiming for a particular web browser or attacking specific versions of the browser. In case you suspect that your Internet Explorer has been hijacked by a computer virus or otherwise compromised by cybercriminals, the most effective course of action is to switch to a different internet browser such as Chrome, Firefox, or Safari to download your favorite computer security software – Safebytes Anti-Malware.

Run anti-virus from a USB drive

Another solution is to save and operate an antivirus software program entirely from a Thumb drive. To run antivirus using a thumb drive, follow these simple steps: 1) On a clean PC, download and install Safebytes Anti-Malware. 2) Put the USB drive into the uninfected PC. 3) Double-click the Setup icon of the anti-malware program to run the Installation Wizard. 4) When asked, choose the location of the USB drive as the place in which you would like to store the software files. Follow the instructions to finish the installation process. 5) Now, insert the pen drive into the infected PC. 6) Double-click the EXE file to open the Safebytes program right from the flash drive. 7) Click “Scan Now” to run a complete scan on the affected computer for viruses.

SafeBytes Anti-Malware Overview

To help protect your laptop or computer from various internet-based threats, it’s very important to install an anti-malware program on your PC. But with countless numbers of antimalware companies out there, these days it’s challenging to decide which one you should buy for your PC. Some of them are good, some are ok types, while some will harm your PC themselves! You must pick a company that builds industry-best anti-malware and has gained a reputation as reliable. Amongst few good programs, SafeBytes Anti-Malware is the highly recommended software program for the security-conscious user. SafeBytes is a powerful, real-time anti-spyware application that is designed to assist the everyday computer end user in safeguarding their computer from malicious internet threats. With its cutting-edge technology, this application will allow you to remove several types of malware including viruses, trojans, PUPs, worms, ransomware, adware, and browser hijackers.

There are plenty of great features you’ll get with this particular security product. Listed here are a few of the great ones:

Real-time Threat Response: SafeBytes offers real-time active checking and protection from all known viruses and malware. It’ll monitor your PC for suspicious activity continuously and its unparalleled firewall shields your PC from illegal access by the outside world. Antimalware Protection: Built upon a greatly acclaimed anti-virus engine, this malware removal tool can find and get rid of many obstinate malware threats such as browser hijackers, PUPs, and ransomware that other typical anti-virus software will miss. Website Filtering: SafeBytes checks and gives a unique safety rating to every website you visit and block access to webpages known to be phishing sites, thus protecting you against identity theft, or known to contain malicious software. Lowest CPU and RAM Usage: SafeBytes provides complete protection from internet threats at a fraction of the CPU load due to its advanced detection engine and algorithms. Premium Support: For any technical questions or product support, you could get 24/7 expert assistance through chat and email. Overall, SafeBytes Anti-Malware is a solid program as it has lots of features and could detect and remove any potential threats. You can be sure that your PC will be protected in real-time once you put this software program to use. You will get the very best all-around protection for the money you pay on SafeBytes Anti-Malware subscription, there’s no question about it.

Technical Details and Manual Removal (Advanced Users)

If you don’t wish to use an automated tool and prefer to get rid of Easy Home Decorating manually, you might accomplish this by going to the Windows Add/Remove Programs menu in the control panel and removing the offending software; in cases of web browser add-ons, you could remove it by visiting the browser’s Add-on/Extension manager. Additionally, it is suggested to factory reset your web browser settings to their default state. To make sure of complete removal, find the following Windows registry entries on your computer and delete it or reset the values appropriately. Please remember that this is for experienced users only and might be challenging, with incorrect file removal causing additional PC errors. Also, certain malware is capable of replicating itself or preventing deletion. Completing this task in Safe Mode is suggested.

If you are running a System File Checker scan but got an error message instead that says, “There is a system repair pending which requires reboot to complete, Restart Windows and run SFC again”, worry not for this post will walk you through how you can fix the problem. This kind of error can be addressed and fixed with several potential fixes which will be provided in this post. You can try to restart your computer and run a System File Checker scan again or delete the pending .xml file or use the “revertpendingactions” parameter for the DISM tool. For more information, refer to each one of the options given below.

Option 1 – Try restarting your computer and run the SFC again

The first thing you can do to fix the problem is to restart your computer and let the pending process be completed. After your computer restarted, try to run System File Checker again and see if the error is now fixed or not. If not, refer to the other options below.

Option 2 – Try deleting the pending .xml file

The next thing you can do to fix the problem is to delete the pending .xml file. How? All you have to do is navigate to this location at CWindowsWinSxS and from there, look for a pending .xml file and rename it or delete it. This will get rid of any pending tasks and will build a fresh new check.

Option 3 – Try to use the “revertpendingactions” parameter for the DISM tool

If the two options given above didn’t work, you can try using the revertpendingactions parameter for the DISM tool. If you’re not able to boot into Windows, then run Command Prompt from the Recovery Console and execute the given command below.

dism.exe /image:C: /cleanup-image /revertpendingactions

After you execute the command, restart your computer and try to run System File Checker again and see if it has fixed the problem or not.

Driver Pro Description

DriverPro is a program developed by PC Utilities Pro. This program is often found bundled in other installations.

From the author: PC Utilities Pro is a leading software development company founded in 2009. As a group of young enthusiastic programmers, we constantly strive in creating powerful, yet easy-to-use solutions that would enable even the most basic computer users to keep their PCs running like new.

When installed, DriverPro will add registry entries for the current user that allow it to run each time to computer is started. It will also add a scheduled task in Windows, that allows it to run at various times. The optimizing nature of the application allows it to access any file and information on your computer without your knowledge.

Multiple anti-virus programs have marked this application as a Potentially Unwanted Program, and it is not recommended to keep it on your computer.

About Potentially Unwanted Applications

Have you ever discovered an unwanted program running on your PC and wondered exactly how the heck it got there? A PUA / PUP (potentially unwanted application / potentially unwanted program) is a software program that comes bundled with freeware/shareware and you agree to install on your computer. These are programs you certainly don’t want on your computer since it doesn’t provide any useful service. Despite being regarded very dangerous, PUPs aren’t necessarily computer viruses or malware What makes a PUP different from malware is the fact that whenever you download one, you are doing it with your consent – though in most instances unwittingly and unwillingly. PUPs might not be malware but still, they’re harmful programs to your computer. At best, these unwanted applications provide hardly any benefit, and at worst, they could be quite damaging to your computer.

What do PUPs do on your computer, really?

Most Potentially Unwanted Programs will come in the form of adware, which typically aims to exhibit numerous irritating pop-up ads, banners, coupons, and bargains on websites you go to. PUPs that come as browser add-ons and toolbars are readily identifiable. They’ll track your online activities, redirect your search results to unsafe websites where spyware and adware can be downloaded, hijack your home page, and slow your internet browser down to a crawl. PUPs load up a dangerous bite if kept unchecked. They will often include things like information gathering program code which could gather and send your sensitive information back to 3rd parties. These are programs that don’t really do anything good for you; in addition to occupying space on the hard drive, they also slow down your PC, often alter settings without your authorization, the list of annoying features goes on and on.

Great tips on protecting yourself from unwanted software

• When setting up anything on your computer system, always study the fine print, like the license agreement. Don’t accept terms of use that are for bundled programs. • Only Use the “custom” or “manual” install method – and never blindly click Next, Next, Next. • Use an advert blocker/pop-up blocker; Install anti-malware products such as Safebytes Anti-malware. These software programs could establish a wall between the computer and cybercriminals. • Think twice before you decide to download any type of freeware or shareware. Just before adding a plug-in or web browser extension, think about whether it is really necessary. • Only download programs from the original providers’ websites. Avoid download portals because they use their very own download manager to pack extra programs along with the initial download.

Help! Malware Blocking Anti-virus Installation And Access To The Web

All malware is bad, but certain kinds of malicious software do a lot more damage to your computer than others. Some malware is meant to hinder or block things that you wish to do on your computer. It may well not allow you to download anything from the net or it will stop you from accessing some or all websites, particularly the anti-malware sites. So what you should do if malware prevents you from downloading or installing Safebytes Anti-Malware? Do as instructed below to get rid of the malware in alternate ways.

Get rid of malware in Safe Mode

The Windows operating system has a special mode known as “Safe Mode” where just the bare minimum required programs and services are loaded. In the event, the virus is set to load automatically when the PC starts, shifting to this mode may well prevent it from doing so. To start the computer into Safe Mode, press the “F8” key on the keyboard just before the Windows boot screen appears; Or right after normal Windows boot up, run MSConfig, check the Safe Boot under the Boot tab, and click Apply. After you restart into Safe Mode with Networking, you could download, install, and update the anti-malware program from there. Now, you are able to run the anti-virus scan to eliminate computer viruses and malware without any interference from another malicious application.

Switch to some other internet browser

Web-based viruses could be environment-specific, aiming for a particular internet browser or attacking particular versions of the browser. If you appear to have malware attached to Internet Explorer, then switch over to a different internet browser with built-in safety features, such as Firefox or Chrome, to download your favorite antivirus program – Safebytes.

Run anti-virus from your USB drive

Another way is to download and transfer an anti-malware program from a clean computer to run a scan on the affected system. Adopt these measures to run the anti-malware on the infected computer system. 1) On a clean computer, download and install Safebytes Anti-Malware. 2) Plug the pen drive into the uninfected computer. 3) Run the setup program by double-clicking the executable file of the downloaded application, which has a .exe file format. 4) Select the USB flash drive as the location when the wizard asks you where you intend to install the software. Follow the activation instructions. 5) Remove the flash drive. You may now utilize this portable antivirus on the infected computer. 6) Run the Safebytes Anti-malware directly from the flash drive by double-clicking the icon. 7) Press the “Scan” button to run a full system scan and remove viruses automatically.

Detect And Remove Viruses With SafeBytes Anti-Malware

Want to download the very best anti-malware software for your laptop or computer? There are many applications available that come in paid and free versions for Microsoft Windows computers. A few are worth your money, but many aren’t. You need to pick a company that creates industry-best antimalware and has earned a reputation as reliable. Among few good programs, SafeBytes Anti-Malware is the strongly recommended software for the security-conscious end user. Safebytes is one of the well-established PC solutions firms, which provide this complete anti-malware software program. This software program can easily detect, remove, and protect your computer from the most advanced malware intrusions such as adware, spyware, trojan horses, ransomware, parasites, worms, PUPs, along with other potentially harmful software applications. SafeBytes anti-malware offers a plethora of advanced features that set it apart from all others. The following are some of the good ones: Real-time Protection: SafeBytes provides complete and real-time security for your personal machine. It will regularly monitor your computer for hacker activity and also gives users superior firewall protection. Best AntiMalware Protection: This deep-cleaning anti-malware program goes much deeper than most antivirus tools to clean out your computer system. Its critically acclaimed virus engine finds and disables hard to remove malware that hides deep within your PC. Web Protection: SafeBytes gives an instant safety rating about the web pages you are about to check out, automatically blocking unsafe sites and ensuring that you are certain of your safety while browsing the world wide web. Fast Scan: SafeBytes Anti-Malware has a multi-thread scan algorithm that works up to 5x faster than any other antivirus software. Very Low CPU and RAM Usage: This software program is not “heavy” on your computer’s resources, so you’ll not notice any overall performance problems when SafeBytes is operating in the background. Fantastic Tech Support Team: You will get 24/7 technical assistance to promptly resolve any issue with your security application.

Technical Details and Manual Removal (Advanced Users)

To remove Driver Pro manually, navigate to the Add/Remove programs list in the Control Panel and choose the offending program you want to get rid of. For web browser plug-ins, go to your web browser’s Addon/Extension manager and select the add-on you want to remove or disable. You may also want to reset your web browser settings, as well as clear your web browser cache and cookies. Lastly, check your hard disk for all of the following and clean your registry manually to remove leftover application entries after uninstalls. Please note that only professional computer users should try to manually edit the system files mainly because removing any single vital registry entry leads to a major problem or even a computer crash. Also, certain malware is capable of replicating itself or preventing its removal. Carrying out this in Safe Mode is suggested.

Finally upgraded to Microsoft’s newest OS, but the performance is a bit sluggish? Here are a few useful tips you may not have thought about that could significantly transform your experience!

How to speed up Windows 11?

1. Disable startup programs

There are many programs that launch right on startup that really aren’t essential. This, in turn, causes your PC to launch and run more slowly.

To check which programs are enabled on startup, go into the Task Manager and select the Startup tab. Find every program that doesn’t need to launch immediately, right-click on it and press ‘Disable’.

This will not shut down the program in that instant. It’ll just prevent it from running automatically as you turn on your PC. You can always launch it manually when you need it.

2. Expand your memory and storage

If you want your PC to run super smoothly, you need to have enough memory to support that. This is especially significant for those of you who love to multitask. Upgrading your RAM gives your PC more space to store the temporary data it needs to complete processing tasks. In other words, processing takes a lot less time.

Your long-term storage is equally important. Hopefully at this point you’re already using SSD over HDD, since this type of storage offers a faster boot time.

In any case, we recommend expanding your storage capacity. The more files and data you store, the more there is to load, significantly influencing your PC’s speed. Larger storage capacity means new data and essential updates can be stored comfortably, preventing any strain on your PC’s performance.

3. Clean up disk space

If you aren’t willing to upgrade your storage just yet, the least you can do is clean up your storage right now. 

Aside from manually deleting stuff you no longer need, you can also get rid of temporary files that clutter up your storage and eat up performance for no reason. To get to them, click Windows + X and select ‘Run’ (or just type it in the search bar).

A small window will pop up, where you need to type %temp%. This will take you to a whole folder full of all the temporary files you can remove without thinking twice. 

For those who upgraded from Windows 10, there’s a neat trick to get rid of potential leftover files you don’t need on your brand new iteration. Only do this if you’re 100% sticking with Windows 11, though. Go to System > Storage > Temporary files. Make sure to only leave ‘Previous Windows Installation’ and ‘Windows Update Clean-up’ checked and click on ‘Remove files’.

Lastly, make use of Windows 11’s fantastic Storage Sense feature. Turning it on will enable your PC to constantly watch out for junk or unused files to optimize your PC’s performance to the maximum.

4. Install pending updates

This one should go without saying, but pending updates can be detrimental to your Windows 11 performance. The longer you leave them untouched, the more bugs the outdated programs and patches can cause. So, make sure to regularly check for updates and install them as soon as they’re available.

5. Disable visual effects

As cool as visual effects, animations, shadows and transparency are, they can also put quite a toll on your computer’s speed. On a newer setup this generally shouldn’t be a problem, but if you do notice a drop in performance, definitely consider turning off some of these settings.

To do this you can go to the Control Panel, System Properties and click the ‘Advanced’ tab. In the Performance section, choose Settings. If you’d like a quicker way to get to the dialog (Performance Options) with Visual Effects, you can also type sysdm.cpl in the search bar.

Once there, you can either have your PC choose what’s best, choose the best appearance or the best performance. The other option is to manually toggle the effects off and on. The biggest obstacles to speed are taskbar animations, window shadows, control/element animations and animations upon minimizing/maximizing.

In the same vein, you should go to Settings > Personalization > Colors and disable Transparency, to prevent your computer from doing overtime just to hit the aesthetic appeal.

6. Get rid of bloatware

Bloatware is one of the biggest culprits of slow computer speed. 

Pre-installed software that’s pretty much useless but takes up valuable system resources has been around since day one. No matter which device or platform you’re talking about. Luckily, a lot of it is removable, making it easy to lighten the load on your device.

To boost your Windows 11 computer, go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps. You’ll probably see a bunch of apps you don’t want or need. Click on the three dots next to each one you want to remove and press ‘Uninstall’. 

Aside from helping optimize performance, removing bloatware has another great benefit. Unfortunately, often this pre-installed software is quite vulnerable, exposing you to great risk of cyberattacks. So, removing it definitely improves your device’s security and gives you at least some peace of mind.

Summary

These are a few of our fastest tips for boosting performance. There are other, more complex and time-consuming ways, of course. If you’ve tried these quick ones and still need advice on how to improve your PC’s speed, feel free to reach out!

Cortana is your personal digital assistant fully integrated into Windows 10 designed to help you make your life easier. The more you use it, the more Cortana can learn about you, and the experience becomes more personalized and accurate. It can perform a variety of tasks, and it's full of handy tricks, but perhaps one of the best features is the advanced speech recognition that enables Cortana to understand the context of a natural voice conversation. On Windows 10, and across platforms with the Cortana app on iPhone and Android, the assistant can understand virtually any voice command and perform tasks. For example, by just speaking you can find facts, create reminders and manage your calendar, launch applications, change settings, and a lot more. Now, if you're looking for an official list of all the voice commands Cortana supports, you'll never find it because it doesn't exist. Cortana can understand natural language and context, there's no particular set of commands to make things happen. In a sort of way, you are speaking to Cortana as you would to any other person.

Invoking Cortana

Before using voice commands, it's important to know the ways in which you can invoke Cortana using natural language:

• You can click the microphone icon in the taskbar next to the Start menu.
• You can use the Shift + ⊞ Windows + C keyboard shortcut to open Cortana in listening mode.
• You can use the Hey Cortana feature, which lets you invoke the assistant by simply saying Hey Cortana followed by the command. For example, Hey Cortana: How's the weather?.
• On Windows 10 Mobile devices, you can press and hold the search button to open Cortana in listening mode.

Comprehensive list of Cortana voice commands

The following list of commands are examples you can use to learn how to control Cortana with voice commands. Keep in mind that there isn't a specific way to speak the commands. For example, Hey Cortana: Let me listen to some tunes is the same as asking for a more systematic command like Hey Cortana: Play music.

Cortana basic voice commands:

Getting the time for any location:

• "What time is it?"
• "What time is in New York?" or "What time is in Greece?"

Getting weather information for any location:

• "What's the weather like?"
• "What's the weather in Madrid?" or "What's the weather in Slovakia?"
• "When does the sun set?"
• "Is it hot in Hawaii?"
• "How's the weather looking for tomorrow/next week?"

Opening (Store and desktop) apps and websites:

• "Open Photoshop" or "Go to Firefox"
• "Open errortools.com."

Getting news information:

• "Show me top headlines."
• "Show me the latest news."
• "Show me weather news."
• "Show me Blizzard stock."
• "Show me bitcoin exchange rate."
• "What was the score of the last Brazil football game."

Creating a note:

• "Create a note."
• "Create Shopping note."
• "Create Shopping note: Buy a basket of eggs"
• "Take a note."
• "Draft a note."
• "Write a note."

Translating to a different language:

• "Translate."
• "Translate Hello to German"
• "Translate Where is the nearest park? to Spain"

Doing math:

• "What's 34% or $764.89?"
• "What's 43 times 59?"
• "What the square root of 26509?"
• "What's 29 times 6 divided by 12?"
• "Convert 6.9 cups to fluid ounces."
• "How many miles are in 89 Kilometers?"

Defining a word:

• "Define Space."

Tracking packages:

• "Where is my package?"
• "Show me my packages."

Cortana search voice commands:

Finding documents, photos, videos:

• "Find photos from August 1998."
• "Find cat videos."
• "Find document called Collection of poems."

Searching the web:

• "Search the web for Heroes of Might and magic."

Finding facts:

• "How tall is Mount Everest?"
• "Who is Steve Jobs?"
• "When Arnold Schwarzenegger was born?"
• "Who is Mercedes CEO?"
• "When does spring begin?"
• "What's the capital of Zimbabwe?"
• "When is Thanksgiving?"

It's important to note that Cortana is capable of conversational understanding, which means that you can also ask follow-up questions without having to be very specific. For example, if you ask Cortana: "Who is the president of the United States", you can then ask a follow-up question, such as "Who is his wife?" or "When was he born?" and the assistant should be able to answer those questions accurately.

Discovering food places nearby:

• "Find food places near me."
• "Find restaurants near me."
• "Find bars near me."
• "What's a good restaurant near me?"
• "What's interesting nearby?"
• "Show me Chinese restaurants near me."
• "Show me Italians restaurants in Los Angeles."

Cortana health and fitness voice commands:

• "How was my sleep last night?"
• "What was my step count yesterday?"
• "How many calories did I burn today?"

These commands require a tracking device, such as the Microsoft Band 2 to enable your fitness and health activities, and you need to connect Cortana with the Microsoft Health (Microsoft Band) service.

Cortana settings voice commands:

Opening the Settings app:

• "Open Settings."
• "Open Action Center."

Controlling settings:

• "Turn on/off Bluetooth"
• "Turn on/off Wi-Fi"
• "Turn on/off Airplane Mode"

Cortana reminders voice commands:

Creating reminders:

• "Remind me to wash the car."

Creating location-based reminders:

• "Remind me to buy CDs next time I go to Walmart."

Creating person-based reminders:

• "Remind me to ask for vacation time next time I talk to Goran."

Creating time-based reminders:

• "Remind me to watch the basketball game at 6 PM."
• "Remind me to buy the food for the d&d session on Sunday at 3 PM."

Viewing reminders:

• "Show me my reminders."

Cortana calendar voice commands:

Viewing calendar events:

• "How's my schedule looking today?"
• "Show me my appointments for next week."
• "When is my dentist appointment?"

Adding new calendar events:

• "Add dental appointment for Monday at 2 PM."

Moving calendar events:

• "Move dental appointment to Friday at 5 PM."

Cortana alarms voice commands:

Creating alarms:

• "Set an alarm for next Monday at 5:30 AM."
• "Set an alarm for Saturdays at 9 AM."

Viewing alarms:

• "Show my alarms"

Removing alarms:

• "Cancel alarm for Saturdays at 9 AM."

Cortana timer voice commands:

Creating a timer:

• "Set a timer for 5 minutes."

You can only start a one-timer at one point in time. If there is a timer already running, Cortana will ask you to restart it at a new time.

Viewing timer:

• "Show timer."
• "How much time is left on the timer?"

Canceling timer:

• "Stop timer."

Cortana location voice commands:

Knowing your exact location:

• "Tell me where am I?"

Cortana messaging voice commands:

Sending text messages:

• "Send a text to Milan: I'll be late for lunch today."

Sending quick emails:

• "Send email to Milena: See you later tonight."
• "Send email to John and Claudia: How is the project coming along?"

Cortana location voice commands:

Getting directions:

• "What's the traffic like on the way home?"
• "How do I get home."
• "How long would it take to drive to Madison Square Garden?"
• "Get me directions to Port Authority."
• "How do I get from my location to Long Beach, New York?"
• "How far away is the moon?"
• "Show me walking directions to the nearest gas station."
• "Show me public transit to 11 Times Sq, New York, NY 10036."
• "Show me the map of San Francisco."

Tracking flights:

• "Track flight 1056."
• "Is my flight delayed?"
• "Is my flight on time?"

Cortana entertainment voice commands:

Controlling music:

• "Play Metallica."
• "Put some Symphonic music."
• "Shuffle music."
• "Play and Justice for all by Metallica."
• "Stop music"
• "Pause music"
• "Pause song."
• "Play next"
• "Next track"
• "Skip track."

Identifying what's playing:

• "What is this song?"
• "What's playing?"

Movies & TV:

• "What's Blade Runner run time?"
• "Who was the director of Gladiator?"
• "What movies are playing near me?"
• "What are the showtimes for Star Trek lower decks?"

Cortana technical support voice commands:

• "How do I install a printer?"
• "How do I project my screen?"
• "How do I change my background?"
• "How do I update Windows?"
• "How do I make a backup?"
• "How do I change default apps?"
• "How do I change Privacy?"
• "How do I connect a wireless device?"

Sometimes asking a "How to do I" question will result in a web search response.

Cortana phone voice commands:

• "Call wife on speakerphone."
• "Call David at home."
• "Call Goran."
• "Redial."
• "Send a photo to my PC."

Cortana random voice commands:

• "Tell me a joke."
• "Tell me a riddle."
• "Tell me something interesting."
• "Tell me something funny."
• "Tell me a scary story."
• "Sing me a song."
• "Surprise me."
• "Do an impression."
• "What do you look like?"
• "Which is the best smartphone?"
• "What is love?"
• "Which is better, Google or Bing?"
• "Why should I buy this phone?"
• "What do you think about Google?"
• "Do you like Google?"
• "What do you think about Yahoo?"
• "Do you like Windows 10?"
• "Play the movie game."
• "Are you better than Siri?"
• "Where is Clippy?"
• "What do you think about Clippy?"
• "Heads or tails?"
• "Rock, paper, scissors."
• "Roll a dice."

Recently, a number of users reported not being able to use the Restore, Minimize and Close buttons on their Windows 10 computers. This kind of issue can be quite annoying as you won’t be able to use your computer properly, especially when you navigate between programs and windows. In such cases, the buttons on the right side of the title bar won’t respond to any inputs which could be caused by a number of factors such as different input modes, corrupted system files, and many more. If you are one of the users who are currently facing this problem, worry not for this post will guide you on what you can do to resolve it. There are several potential fixes you can check out to fix the issue. You can try to check if Tablet Mode is enabled and if it is, you have to disable it. You could also boot your computer in a Clean Boot State to check if a third-party program is the one that’s causing the problem. In addition, you could also reinstall the program where you experience the problem or run built-in utilities like System File Checker and DISM tool.

Option 1 – Make sure that you are not in Tablet Mode

Since Windows 10 is designed to work on both desktop and mobile devices, it could be that your computer has slipped into Tablet Mode which explains why you’re not seeing the Taskbar. To check if your computer is really in Tablet Mode, follow these steps:

• Go to the Start menu and select Settings.
• Next, select the System setting and from the left pane select the Tablet Mode.
• From there, make sure that the buttons next to the options given below are set to the off position:
  • Hide app icons on the taskbar in tablet mode
  • Automatically hide the taskbar in tablet mode

Option 2 – Put your computer in a Clean Boot State

As pointed out, it is possible that some third-party program or service is the one that’s behind the problem. To isolate this possibility and to identify the culprit, you have to put your computer into 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.)
• Once your computer is in a Clean Boot State, try to open the program where the problem occurred.

Option 3 – Try reinstalling the program

If the first two options didn’t work, then you might want to consider uninstalling the program and then install it back with its latest version. This should resolve the problem.

Option 4 – Try to run System File Checker

System File Checker or SFC is a built-in command utility that helps in restoring corrupted files as well as missing files. It replaces bad and corrupted system files to good system files that might be the cause why the Restore, Minimize and Close buttons don’t work. To run the SFC command, follow the steps given below.

• Type “cmd” in the Start search and then right-click on the appropriate search result.
• Next, select “Run as administrator” to open Command Prompt with admin privileges.
• After opening Command Prompt, type in sfc /scannow

The command will start a system scan which will take a few whiles before it finishes. Once it’s done, you could get the following results:

1. Windows Resource Protection did not find any integrity violations.
2. Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files and successfully repaired them.
3. Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files but was unable to fix some of them.

• Now restart your computer and see if the problem is fixed or not.

Option 5 – Run the DISM tool

You can try running the Deployment Imaging and Servicing Management or DISM tool to fix the 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. Once it’s done, restart your computer.