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WeatherBlink Malware Removal Guide

WeatherBlink is an extension for google chrome, Mozilla, and internet explorer. It allows users to check out the weather anywhere in the world at any time. This might seem like a convenient feature, however, this toolbar also displays unwanted ads, hijacks your browser home page, collects personal data about your web surfing habits, visits, and clicks.
From the author: Access local weather forecasts, weather radar, allergy, and pollen reports, and worldwide weather news – all in one convenient spot!
This extension configures your New Tab page to WeatherBlink™ to provide these features.

Be prepared with instant weather forecasts. Access FREE and accurate weather forecasts with one click!

About Browser Hijackers

Browser hijack is a very common type of online fraud where your web browser settings are modified to make it do things you do not intend. Browser hijackers can do more than simply modifying home pages. It redirects you to the sponsored internet sites and inserts ads on the internet browser that helps its creator generate ad revenue. A lot of people assume that these kinds of websites are legitimate and harmless but that is not true. Nearly every browser hijacker poses an actual threat to your online safety and it is necessary to classify them under privacy dangers. In a worst-case scenario, your internet browser could be hi-jacked to open up your computer to a host of additional computer infections.

Indications of browser hijack

Below are some symptoms that indicate you’ve been hijacked:
1. the browser’s home page is changed
2. bookmark and the new tab are also modified
3. default online search engine is modified
4. you see unwanted new toolbars added
5. you notice a lot of pop-ups on your computer screen
6. web pages load very slowly and often incomplete
7. you’ve disallowed entry to particular web pages, for example, the website of an antimalware software firm like SafeBytes.

So how exactly does a browser hijacker infect a computer?

A browser hijacker could be installed on your PC when you go to an infected website, click an email attachment, or download something from a file-sharing website. They also come from add-on applications, also referred to as browser helper objects (BHO), browser extensions, or toolbars. Sometimes you may have mistakenly accepted a browser hijacker as part of a software program bundle (usually freeware or shareware). Typical examples of browser hijackers include CoolWebSearch, Conduit, RocketTab, OneWebSearch, Coupon Server, Searchult.com, Snap.do, and Delta Search.

Tips on how to remove browser hijackers

Certain browser hijacking can be easily stopped by discovering and eliminating the corresponding malware application from your control panel. However, certain hijackers are more difficult to find or eliminate as they might get themselves associated with certain crucial system files that enable it to work as a necessary operating-system process. You should think about carrying out manual repairs only if you’re a tech-savvy person because there are possible risks associated with fiddling around with the system registry and HOSTS file.

How One Can Eliminate Malware that is Blocking Websites or Preventing Downloads

Malware could potentially cause several different types of damage to PCs, networks, and data. Certain malware goes to great lengths to prevent you from downloading or installing anything on your PC, especially anti-malware applications. If you’re reading this, you probably have got infected by a virus that prevents you from downloading security software like Safebytes Anti-Malware. There are a few fixes you could try to get around with this issue.

Start Windows in Safe Mode

Safe Mode is actually a unique, basic version of Windows where just essential services are loaded to counteract malware as well as other problematic programs from loading. In the event the malware is blocking access to the internet and affecting your PC, launching it in Safe Mode enables you to download anti-virus and run a diagnostic scan while limiting possible damage. To start the computer into Safe Mode, hit the “F8” key on your keyboard right before the Windows logo screen comes up; Or after normal Windows boot up, run MSCONFIG, check Safe Boot under Boot tab, and click Apply. Once you restart into Safe Mode with Networking, you may download, install, as well as update anti-malware software from there. At this point, you could run the anti-malware scan to eliminate computer viruses and malware without any interference from another application.

Switch over to an alternate browser

Some malware may target vulnerabilities of a specific browser that block the downloading process. The most effective solution to avoid this problem is to pick a browser that is renowned for its security features. Firefox has built-in Phishing and Malware Protection to help keep you secure online.

Install antivirus on a thumb drive

To effectively remove the malware, you have to approach the problem of running an anti-malware software program on the affected computer from a different angle. Adopt these measures to run the anti-virus on the affected computer.
1) Download Safebytes Anti-Malware or Windows Defender Offline onto a virus-free computer system.
2) Plug the USB drive into the clean 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 activation instructions.
5) Unplug the flash drive. You may now utilize this portable anti-virus on the infected computer.
6) Double-click the Safebytes Anti-malware icon on the flash drive to run the program.
7) Press the “Scan Now” button to begin the virus scan.

SafeBytes Anti-Malware: Lightweight Malware Protection for Windows Computer

Do you want to install the best anti-malware software for your computer system? There are plenty of applications available in the market which comes in paid and free versions for Microsoft Windows computers. A few of them are good, some are ok types, while some will damage your computer themselves! You need to be careful not to select the wrong application, particularly if you purchase a paid application. On the list of recommended software programs is SafeBytes AntiMalware. SafeBytes has a very good track record of top-quality service, and customers seem to be very happy with it.

SafeBytes can be described as a powerful, real-time anti-spyware application that is made to assist the common computer end user in safeguarding their PC from malicious internet threats. Using its cutting-edge technology, this application can assist you to get rid of multiples types of malware which include computer viruses, PUPs, trojans, worms, ransomware, adware, and browser hijackers.

SafeBytes has a variety of features that can help you protect your PC from malware attacks and damage. Below are a few of the great ones:

Antimalware Protection: With a critically acclaimed anti-malware engine, SafeBytes gives multi-layered protection which is intended to find and eliminate viruses and malware that are concealed deep in your computer’s operating system.

Real-time Threat Response: SafeBytes provides round-the-clock protection for your PC restricting malware intrusions in real-time. It’ll regularly monitor your laptop or computer for hacker activity and also gives users sophisticated firewall protection.

Quick Multi-threaded Scanning: SafeBytes’s high-speed malware scanning engine lessens scan times and extends the life of the battery. At the same time, it’ll effectively detect and get rid of infected computer files or any internet threat.

Internet Security: Safebytes allots all sites a unique safety score that helps you to get an idea of whether the website you’re just about to visit is safe to browse or known to be a phishing site.

Low CPU/Memory Usage: SafeBytes is well known for its minimal influence on computer resources and great detection rate of numerous threats. It works quietly and efficiently in the background so you are free to utilize your computer or laptop at full power all the time.

24/7 Customer Support: You will get 24/7 technical support to promptly resolve any problem with your security tool.

Technical Details and Manual Removal (Advanced Users)

To remove WeatherBlink manually, go to the Add or Remove programs list in the Control Panel and select the program you want to get rid of. For internet browser plug-ins, go to your browser’s Addon/Extension manager and select the plug-in you want to remove or disable. You will probably also want to reset your internet browser.

Finally, examine your hard drive for all of the following and clean your registry manually to remove leftover application entries after uninstallation. Please remember that only experienced users should try to manually edit the registry because incorrect file deletion results in a major problem or perhaps a PC crash. Furthermore, certain malware is capable of replicating or preventing deletion.

Carrying out this malware-removal process in Safe Mode is recommended.

Files:
C:Program FilesWeatherBlink
C:ProgramDataWeatherBlink
C:UsersYOUR_USERAppDataRoamingWeatherBlink

Registry:
Key HKLMSOFTWAREClassesWeatherBlink.DynamicBarButton
Key HKLMSOFTWAREClassesWeatherBlink.FeedManager
Key HKLMSOFTWAREClassesWeatherBlink.HTMLMenu
Key HKLMSOFTWAREClassesWeatherBlink.HTMLPanel
Key HKLMSOFTWAREClassesWeatherBlink.MultipleButton
Key HKLMSOFTWAREClassesWeatherBlink.PseudoTransparentPlugin
Key HKLMSOFTWAREClassesWeatherBlink.Radio
Key HKLMSOFTWAREClassesWeatherBlink.RadioSettings
Key HKLMSOFTWAREClassesWeatherBlink.ScriptButton
Key HKLMSOFTWAREClassesWeatherBlink.SettingsPlugin
Key HKLMSOFTWAREClassesWeatherBlink.SkinLauncher
Key HKLMSOFTWAREClassesWeatherBlink.SkinLauncherSettings
Key HKLMSOFTWAREClassesWeatherBlink.ThirdPartyInstaller
Key HKLMSOFTWAREClassesWeatherBlink.ToolbarProtector
Key HKLMSOFTWAREClassesWeatherBlink.UrlAlertButton
Key HKLMSOFTWAREClassesWeatherBlink.XMLSessionPlugin
Key HKLMSOFTWAREMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionExplorerBrowser Helper Objects9b9dcae3-be34-424c-8d73-75e305a9e091
Key HKLMSOFTWAREMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionExplorerBrowser Helper Objectsdc9051c2-8f55-479a-97a4-747980d9047f
Key HKLMSOFTWAREMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionUninstallWeatherBlinkbar Uninstall Firefox
Key HKLMSOFTWAREMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionUninstallWeatherBlinkbar Uninstall Internet Explorer
Key [email protected]/Plugin
Key HKLMSOFTWAREWeatherBlink
Key HKLMSOFTWAREMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionRunValue: WeatherBlink Search Scope Monitor Data: C:PROGRA~1WEATHE~2bar.bingcsrchmn.exe
Key HKLMSOFTWAREMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionRunValue: WeatherBlink Browser Plugin Loader Data: C:PROGRA~1WEATHE~2bar.bingcbrmon.exe

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Error Causes

A Crash Dump usually points to some serious and critical errors with your Computer. Below are some of the possible causes for this error:-
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Further Information and Manual Repair

Most PC users get scared and anxious when a crash dump happens. Which need not be the case. You can easily repair a Crash Dump without necessarily requiring a computer technician. Follow these simple steps and the malfunction will soon dissipate:

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b) Push F8

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c) Click "Repair My Computer"

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d) Click on the "Startup Repair"

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ChatZum is a Potentially Unwanted Program that installs a Toolbar into your browser. This program allegedly allows users to zoom in on photos without clicking on them, however, upon further research, it was discovered that this function does not work on the latest version of browsers.

From the Author: ChatZum is a Browser add-on (toolbar) that enables its users to hover over images in Major Social network's websites and view a larger version of an image.

While installing this toolbar will track user web browsing sessions and will record website visits, clicks, and sometimes even personal information. This information is later used to display targeted ads to the user. To allow easier user tracking, the program changes the browser home page and default search engine to Nation Search Advanced, which injects additional advertisements and tracks user activity.

Several anti-virus applications have marked this program as Potentially Unwanted, and it is not recommended to keep it on your computer, especially considering the fact it will most likely not work on your browser.

About Potentially Unwanted Applications

If you have ever installed a free application or shareware, chances are high that the computer will get installed with a bunch of unwanted applications. A Potentially Unwanted Program, also called PUP, in short, is actually software that contains adware, installs toolbars, or has got other hidden objectives. These types of programs are generally bundled up with a free application that you download from the internet or may also be bundled inside the custom installers of many download websites. PUPs aren’t always viewed as “pure” malware in the strictest sense. A fundamental difference between PUP and malware is distribution. Malware is normally dropped by silent installation vectors like drive-by downloads while PUP gets installed with the consent of the computer user, who knowingly or unknowingly approves the PUP installation on their computer system. But, there is no doubt that PUPs remain bad news for PC users as it could be quite dangerous to your computer in many ways.

The damage PUPs can do

The unwanted programs after installation display numerous annoying pop-up ads, trigger fake alerts, and sometimes even forces a computer owner to pay for the software. PUPs that come as browser add-ons and toolbars are commonly recognizable. These toolbars alter your homepage and your search engine in the installed web browser, track your web activities, modify your search results with redirects and sponsored links, and eventually slow down your browser and diminish your browsing experience. Potentially unwanted programs use aggressive distribution methods to get onto your computer. The worst part of setting up a PUP is the adware, spyware, and keystroke loggers that could lurk inside. Even if the PUPs really aren’t inherently malicious, these applications still do practically nothing good on your PC – they’ll take valuable system resources, slow down your PC, weaken your computer security, making your PC more vulnerable to malware.

How to avoid ‘crapware’

• Read the EULA thoroughly. Look for clauses that state that you have to accept advertising and pop-ups or bundled applications from the company. • Always opt for the custom if you’re offered an option between “Custom” and “Recommended” Installations – never ever click Next, Next, Next thoughtlessly. • Use a good anti-malware application. Try Safebytes Anti-malware which can find PUPs and treat them as malware by flagging them for deletion. • Be alert if you download and install freeware, open-source applications, or shareware. Do not ever install software applications that seem shady or malicious. • Always download applications from the original website. The majority of PUPs find their way onto your laptop or computer is via download portals, so steer clear of it altogether. Remember the fact that even though PUPs could potentially cause damage and hinder the proper functioning of the PC, they can’t enter into your system without your consent, so be alert not to provide them with it.

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

Malware could potentially cause many kinds of damage to PCs, networks, and data. Some malware goes to great lengths to stop you from downloading or installing anything on your computer, especially antivirus software. If you’re reading this article, odds are you’re stuck with a malware infection that is preventing you to download or install the Safebytes Anti-Malware program on your PC. Even though this sort of problem can be tougher to circumvent, there are some steps you can take.

Make use of Safe Mode to resolve the issue

If the malware is set to run automatically when Microsoft Windows starts, stepping into safe mode could block the attempt. Just minimal required programs and services are loaded when you boot your computer in Safe Mode. To launch your Windows XP, Vista, or 7 computers in Safe Mode with Networking, do as instructed below. 1) Tap the F8 key repeatedly as soon as your PC boots, however, before the big Windows logo or black screen with white texts come up. This would invoke the Advanced Boot Options menu. 2) Choose 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 program you want by utilizing the web browser. To install the program, follow the guidelines in the installation wizard. 4) Right after installation, do a full scan and allow the software program to get rid of the threats it detects.

Switch to an alternate internet browser

Some malware mainly targets certain browsers. If this is your situation, employ another internet browser as it might circumvent the computer virus. When you suspect that your Internet Explorer has been hijacked by a trojan or otherwise compromised by online hackers, the best thing to do is to switch over to an alternate internet browser such as Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, or Apple Safari to download your chosen security program – Safebytes Anti-Malware.

Create a portable USB antivirus for eliminating viruses

Another technique is to download and transfer an antivirus application from a clean computer to run a scan on the infected computer. Follow these steps to run the anti-malware on the affected computer. 1) Download the anti-malware on a virus-free PC. 2) Connect the flash drive to a USB slot on the clean computer. 3) Double click on the exe file to run the installation wizard. 4) Choose the USB stick as the location for saving the file. Follow the instructions on the screen to finish off the installation process. 5) Now, transfer the flash drive to the infected computer. 6) Run the Safebytes Anti-malware directly from the USB drive by double-clicking the icon. 7) Click the “Scan Now” button to start the virus scan.

Protect your PC from Malware With SafeBytes Security Suite

If you are looking to install an anti-malware program for your PC, there are lots of tools in the market to consider nonetheless, you just cannot trust blindly anyone, regardless of whether it is a paid or free program. A few of them are great but there are several scamware applications that pretend as authentic anti-malware programs waiting around to wreak havoc on your PC. You have to pick a company that develops industry-best anti-malware and it has earned a reputation as reliable. One of the highly recommended applications by industry analysts is SafeBytes Anti-Malware, the safest program for Microsoft Windows. SafeBytes can be described as a highly effective, real-time antivirus application that is made to assist the average computer user in protecting their PC from malicious internet threats. Through its cutting-edge technology, this software will help you protect your computer against infections brought on by various kinds of malware and other internet threats, including spyware, adware, trojans, worms, computer viruses, keyloggers, ransomware, and potentially unwanted program (PUPs).

There are many wonderful features you’ll get with this particular security product. Listed below are some of the features you will like in SafeBytes.

Active Protection: SafeBytes offers a completely hands-free active protection and is set to observe, block, and kill all computer threats at its very first encounter. It will check your PC for suspicious activity at all times and its unrivaled firewall shields your computer from illegal entry by the outside world. Robust, Anti-malware Protection: Using a critically acclaimed malware engine, SafeBytes offers multilayered protection which is made to catch and remove threats that are concealed deep inside your PC. Web Security: Safebytes allots all sites a unique safety ranking that helps you to get an idea of whether the webpage you’re just about to visit is safe to view or known to be a phishing site. Extremely Speed Scanning: SafeBytes’s virus scan engine is among the fastest and most efficient in the industry. It's targeted scanning significantly increases the catch rate for viruses which is embedded in various computer files. Lightweight: SafeBytes is really lightweight software. It consumes an extremely small amount of processing power as it runs in the background which means you will not observe any computer performance difficulties. 24/7 Support: For any technical concerns or product assistance, you may get 24/7 expert assistance via chat and email. To sum it up, SafeBytes Anti-Malware offers outstanding protection combined with an acceptable low system resources usage with both great malware detection and prevention. You now may realize that this particular tool does more than just scan and remove threats from your computer. You will get the best all-around protection for the money you pay on SafeBytes AntiMalware subscription, there’s no question about it.

Technical Details and Manual Removal (Advanced Users)

If you wish to do the removal of ChatZum manually rather than using an automated software tool, you can follow these simple steps: Navigate to the Windows Control Panel, click the “Add/Remove Programs” and there, choose the offending application to remove. In case of suspicious versions of web browser plug-ins, you can easily get rid of it through your web browser’s extension manager. You might also want to reset your home page and search providers, as well as delete browsing history, temporary files, and cookies. If you choose to manually remove the system files and Windows registry entries, use the following list to make sure you know exactly what files to remove before undertaking any actions. Please note that only advanced users should try to manually edit the system files mainly because removing any single vital registry entry results in a serious problem or even a PC crash. In addition, certain malware is capable of replicating itself or preventing its removal. Doing this malware-removal process in Safe Mode is recommended.
Files: Search And Delete: tbcore3.dll arrow_refresh.png basis.xml chatzum.dll info.txt inst.tmp loaderie.js suggestion_plugin.dll TbCommonUtils.dll tbcore3.dll tbhelper.dll TbHelper2.exe uninstall.exe uninstaller.exe update.exe Folders: C:\Program Files\ChatZum Toolbar\ C:\Documents and Settings\username\Application Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\gb5e8gtn.default\extensions\staged\ADFA33FD-16F5-4355-8504-DF4D664CFE83 Registry: Key HKLM\SOFTWARE\ChatZum Toolbar Key HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\ChatZum Toolbar
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hive ransomware

ProxyShell wide abuse

ProxyShell is a set of three vulnerabilities in the Microsoft Exchange Server that allows remote code execution without authentication on vulnerable deployments. The flaw has been used in past by various ransomware like Conti, BlackByte, Babuk, Cuba, and LockFile.

Security vulnerabilities have been reported to be fully patched on May 2021 but how Hive was able to still be successful in exploiting PowerShell and infiltrating into the system there seems to be still some unpatched and open issues.

Hive

Hive has gone a long way since it was first observed in the wild back in June 2021, having a successful start that prompted the FBI to release a dedicated report on its tactics and indicators of compromise.

In October 2021, the Hive gang added Linux and FreeBSD variants, and in December it became one of the most active ransomware operations in attack frequency.

Last month, researchers at Sentinel Labs reported on a new payload-hiding obfuscation method employed by Hive, which indicates active development.

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A Guide to Fixing Error Code 0x8007007b in Windows 8

Error Code 0x8007007b – What is it?

This error code occurs when users fail to activate their Windows operating system. It is one of the more popular Windows error codes since it affects many versions of Windows including Windows 7, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10. Error code 0x8007007b has common symptoms which include the following:

  • Inability to activate a Windows installation
  • Message box highlighting error code 0x8007007b

Solution

Restoro box imageError Causes

Error code 0x8007007b in Windows 8.1 usually results due to one or more main clauses. Windows 8.1 users may experience this error due to the use of volume-licensed media. The error code may also arise if the activation wizard is unable to connect to Key Management Service (KMS) host computer or if corrupted system files are present on your computer.

Further Information and Manual Repair

Windows error codes such as Error code 0x8007007b can be a complicated issue, requiring the use of technical knowledge and skills. For this reason, we have listed instructions in the simplest of forms to enable even average users to successfully complete manual repair methods that will resolve error code 0x8007007b.

The same approach has been applied to all our error code solutions. See also Error Code 0x00000024 and Error Code 0x80004005.

Below are the two main methods for correcting this issue.

Method One: Use Multiple Activation Key (MAK) to Activate Windows

This method involves the use of a Multiple Activation Key (MAK) instead of the Key Management Service (KMS) to activate the Windows operating system you intend to use on your PC. This manual repair method requires the use of Command Prompt so ensure you follow the instructions provided carefully so as to avoid the risks of causing harm to your system.

  • Step one: Select Windows log key + X.
  • Step two: Click Command Prompt, then Admin
  • Step three: Type in admin password if Command Prompt requests it
  • Step four: Type slmgr -ipk followed by the MAK product key. Note that the product key should have 25 characters with dashes between them like this xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx

Attempt to activate your Windows installation once you’ve completed the exact instructions above. If you are unable to complete this process, consider getting help from a Windows repair technician or simply move to the next manual repair method listed below.

Method Two: Run System File Checker

System File Checker (SFC) enables Windows users to scan and repair errors or corruption on system files. Since such errors within your system files can cause error code 0x8007007b to occur, follow the steps below to fix this error code.

  • Step One: Go to Start and type Command Prompt or CMD.
  • Step Two: Run as Administrator
  • Step Three: Type sfc /scannow with a space between “sfc” and “/scannow”.

The System File Checker tool will begin scanning your machine for corrupted or missing files in need of repair. If these files are found on your system, the tool will repair and replace them. Once this is done, restart your computer then check to see if you can now activate your Windows operating system.

Method Three: Use an Automated Tool

If you wish to always have at your disposal a utility tool to fix these Windows 8 and other related issues when they do arise, download and install a powerful automated tool.

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Fix 0x80070037: The specified network ...
If you are trying to copy a file but suddenly encountered an error message saying, “An unexpected error is keeping you from copying the file”, then you’ve come to the right place as this post will help you resolve the problem. This error comes along with another message that states, “Error 0x80070037: The specified network resource or device is no longer available”. This kind of error occurs when the power supply to the external device is weak and causes the device to be disconnecting and reconnecting consistently. To fix this problem, you need to check out the potential fixes provided below.

Option 1 – Try to physically check the USB ports

You need to check the USB ports as there could be some ports that are loose or damaged physically which affects the overall performance of the port. You could also try to change the USB port since modern computers have a variety of USB ports. So if your USB drive supports USB 3.0 or 3.1, make sure that you plug it inside a USB 3.0 or 3.1 ports. If you’re not sure which port, just keep in mind that the USB 3 port is usually blue or you can also use your computer’s documentation or manual as a reference to locate it.

Option 2 – Check the connected cables physically

Aside from the USB ports, you also have to check the physical status of the connected cables because if there are damaged ones, just like with USB ports, it would also affect the overall connectivity of the device with the computer. So if you notice some irregularities in the connecting cable physically, you might have to buy another one and replace it and then see if it fixes the problem or not.

Option 3 – Update or reinstall the Universal Serial Bus Controller driver

Since it could be a driver issue, you can try to update or reinstall the Universal Serial Bus Controller drivers using the Device Manager. Refer to the following steps:
  • 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 “Universal Serial Bus controllers” option and then right-click on each one of the USB drivers and select the Update Driver from the menu.
Note: If it is a regular USB drive, then it will be listed as a USB Mass Storage Device but if you have a USB 3.0 device, then look for a USB 3.0 Extensible Host Controller.
  • Restart your PC and then click the “Search automatically for updated driver software” option.
Note: If updating the USB Controller drivers didn’t work, you can try to reinstall them instead.

Option 4 – Try connecting to a slower USB port

If connecting your device to USB 3.0 or 3.1 ports didn’t work, you might want to try connecting it to a slower USB port this time. There are times when the device is not capable of supporting the higher power supply from a USB 3.0 or 3.1 port which is why the weak circuits do not work properly. Thus, try connecting your device to a USB 2.0 port and check if your device is now working.

Option 5 – Try to turn off the Power Saving option

You could also try to turn off the Power Saving option to resolve the problem. All you have to do is switch to Power Management after you select the Properties of the USB device and from there, uncheck the “Allow the computer to turn off the device to save power” option. On the other hand, if you are using a laptop and did not use the USB device for a long time, then it could be powered off. This will ensure that the system does not turn off the USB device.

Option 6 – Try to connect your device to another computer

It is also possible that your computer does not support your device. To check that possibility, you can try connecting your device to a different computer and see if it is working without any issues. If it is, then you need to get another device that’s compatible with your computer.

Option 7 – Try to use a different device

You could also try using a different device and connect it to your computer. This will help you figure out if your device is damaged or not. So if the other device you connected is working just fine, then you might have to replace your device with a new one or consult an expert and have it repaired if possible.

Option 8 – Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooters

  • 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.
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How to Fix Error Code 0x80073afc

Error Code 0x80073afc - What is it?

Error code 0x80073afc deals with an antivirus program first built into Windows 8/8.1 This error occurs when Windows Defender, the built-in anti-virus software in Windows 8/8.1 and higher, does not start automatically and users attempt to manually start the program. During the initialization period of the program start-up, something goes wrong and users get a 0x80073afc Error message. The error message states there was a problem with the initialization of the program. Windows Defender provides protection of your computer and it is advised by the Microsoft Corporation that you ensure it starts up automatically on every start-up.

Solution

Restoro box imageFurther Information and Manual Repair

Users have found several manual repairs that have fixed the problem without needing to contact technicians for extra help. While the methods below should solve your problem easily, if this is the first time you have encountered the issue you may want to do a simple restart. This has fixed the problem for some users and is the easiest first troubleshooting move. If it doesn’t work move on to the methods listed below, which are easily completed without extra help.

Before trying any of these methods, please make sure that you are logged into a profile that is listed as the administrator of the computer of his administrative powers enabled. If this is not the case you will not be able to complete the following methods. Please log out and log back in on the administrator profile.

Method 1:

First, check to see if you have a third-party anti-virus program installed on your computer. Some users believe that the built-in Windows Defender program is not powerful enough to handle the safety of their computer so they usually download a third-party program. However, that program may have caused a conflict with Windows Defender and may not allow it to open. If you do have a third-party program installed, try uninstalling it then manually starting Windows Defender.

Method 2:

If method one does not work, you may be infected by malware or a virus that has tampered with the settings on your computer and will not allow Windows Defender to start automatically or manually.

First, open Run by holding the “Win” key and pressing the “R” key. Then type “Regedit”. The program will ask for permission to follow through with this action. Click on “Yes” and the Open Registry Editor will open.

Find the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESoftwareMicrosoftWindows NTCurrentVersionImage File Execution Option and check to see if there are any files similar to MSASCui.exe or MpCmdRun.exe. If there are any file entries that resemble that, you will want to right-click on them before selecting the “Delete” option. If you do not see any entries that match, this is not the issue with your Windows Defender and you will want to try another method.

The Registry on your computer is very important. It helps tell your computer what programs are safe to run, what programs should be run, and what programs should not be run. If it is tampered with by a virus or Malware, multiple system operations can be affected.

However, if you did find similar file names, and you deleted them, try to start Windows Defender manually. If it does not work again, move on to the next method. 

Method 3:

If the first two methods do not work for your issue, and you are still receiving error code 0x80073afc when attempting to start Windows Defender, this step should solve the problem if you have Restore Point installed on your computer, which you most likely do.

For this method, we will be restoring your computer to a previous Restore Point. First, just like in method two, hold the “Win” key and press the “R” key. This will open run. Next type “Rstrui.exe” and click “ok”. After some time, you will see System Restore Windows. Click “Next” and select the restore point that you would like to go back to. After your computer has restored to the point you selected, check to ensure that Windows Defender has started correctly.

If the above methods aren't able to rectify the issue, you might have to download and install a powerful automated tool to get the job done.

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