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Fix Microsoft Word Stopped Working in Windows

Microsoft office has set itself as one of the most used and best suites for business use and MS Word as the most widely used word processor. But how even best are not immune to some small bugs and unexpected behaviors so is not Word. Word has stopped working is probably know to a wide audience of its users, I think I could safely say that each Word user has experienced this error at least once, luckily the error is not anything to worry about since it is an easily fixable issue.

Try automated solutions

There are some fully automated solutions that could fix any PC issues, some are available in free versions. If you prefer to do things manually however keep on reading and follow the instructions below.

Manual FIXES:

  1. Update MS Word

    Make sure that you are running the latest build of Word in order to eliminate all bugs and to have a smooth running experience. Go to File > Account > Product Information > Update Options and click Enable Update and then select Update Now.

  2. Check the file

    Corrupted files can cause this crash and this error, try opening another text file inside the Word to eliminate file corruption.

  3. Run Word in safe mode and disable add-ins

    Did you know that MS Word has a safe mode like Windows? In this safe mode, Word will boot up just the application without any add-ins installed and in this environment, you can start one add-in by one to see which one is causing the issue.
    Press ⊞ WINDOWS + R to open the run dialog
    Inside run dialog type in winword /safe followed by ENTER to run Word in safe mode
    If MS Word works fine in Safe mode, disable all COM Add-ins (while being in safe mode) and restart Word. Re-enable the add-ins one at a time to identify the problematic one.
    Click on File and then on Options
    Click on Add-Ins from the options list
    Select COM Add-ins from the drop-down menu and click on Go
    Uncheck all the add-ins and click OK to confirm
    Close the Dialog Box and MS Word. Now try running MS Word normally and see if it works
    Repeat steps to enable the add-ins, one at a time, and check which add-in is causing this error

  4. Repair Word installation

    Press ⊞ WINDOWS + R to open the run dialog
    In run dialog type in control panel and press ENTER
    Inside Control Panel click on Programs and Features
    Locate and click on Microsoft Office to select it
    Once selected click on change located on top of the application list
    Once Office Windows loads click on Repair
    Wait for the process to finish

  5. Reinstall MS office

    If all the previous solutions failed next step would be to completely uninstall MS Office and install it again once the old one has been completely removed from the system.
    Go to the control panel as explained in the previous step and select Office
    Instead of Change this time click on uninstall and follow on-screen instructions
    Once uninstall is finished, install a new copy of MS Office.

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Mastodon test and review

What is Mastodon? Mastodon is an open-source microblogging network very similar to Twitter. You can make 500 characters post messages called toot (tweet), share videos or images, and follow other people. But unlike Twitter, Mastodon is decentralized, meaning the entire Mastodon is not run by a single company pulling all strings.

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Mastodon can be used directly in your web browser or through a mobile client on a smartphone or tablet. It includes features that seem copied from Twitter-like replies, boosts (retweets), favorites (loves), a timeline view, blocking, and voluntary content warnings that hide sensitive content.

Mastodon also has some great features that Twitter does not have like automated post deletion for the older post of a certain age, requiring approval for follows without restricting your account, and opting out of search engine indexing.

Currently, there are also no ads on Mastodon meaning no ad tracking or ad network surveillance.

How Does Mastodon Work?

Mastodon is a social media network made of nodes called servers or instances each running special software meaning anyone can run their own Mastodon instance (if they have a proper dedicated server). When you have your own instance it can be linked in the federation or remain private, so individuals or companies can have control over individual Mastodon servers.

The software itself is open source based on the social networking protocol ActivityPub which was developed by WWW Consortium.

While using Mastodon, people sign up for accounts with specific instances. Once logged in, you can view a local timeline (of posts from that instance only) or, if the instance is federated with others, see a federated timeline comprised of toots from people in other instances. Mastodon users can send messages to each other using their Mastodon account names that are similar to email addresses in that they feature the server address as well as the user name.

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Windows ImageAcquisition High CPU & Disk usage
What is Windows ImageAcquisition High CPU & Disk usage? The Windows Image Acquisition is the driver model in charge of the communication between the graphics hardware and the operating system. There are times when it causes high disk and CPU usage in Windows 10 systems which results in slow performance of the computer. To fix this issue, read on as this post will help you in addressing the problem. The cause of this problem might have something to do with the hardware or the drivers. And so if your computer becomes slow because of the Windows Image Acquisition process, here are some suggestions that might be of help. You can try to restart the Windows Image Acquisition service, run a System File Checker Scan, disconnect & reconnect imaging hardware as well as update and reinstall the drivers and updating the graphics drivers. For a complete set of instructions, follow the given options below.

Option 1 – Try restarting the Windows Image Acquisition Service

  • Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
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Option 2 – Try running a System File Checker scan

As you know, running a System File Checker scan can help in replacing missing files as well as repair the corrupted ones which might be the reason behind the problem.
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  • After opening Command Prompt, type in sfc /scannow
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Option 3 – Try disconnecting and reconnecting the imaging hardware and then update and reinstall its drivers

It could be that the hardware that calls for the Windows Image Acquisition service has some issues which are why disconnecting and reconnecting the imaging hardware like scanners, printers, cameras can help in fixing the problem. In addition, you can also boot your computer in a Clean Boot State so that you can find the problematic hardware by hit and trial method. Refer to the steps below to do so:
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  • 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.
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Option 4 – Try updating the Graphics drivers

  • First, boot your computer into Safe Mode.
  • After that, tap the Win + R keys to launch Run.
  • Type in devmgmt.msc into the box and tap Enter or click OK to open the Device Manager.
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What is OpenCandy?

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Assessment of OpenCandy PUP

During the initial assessment of OpenCandy, I was a little skeptical about what to look out for or expect. In fact, I had to install the OpenCandy.exe file twice to discern its behavior. I’m not sure how this application got its name but I do believe it has something to do with the fact that it supposedly helps Internet users open a new world of Internet browsing. That conclusion was arrived at after realizing that OpenCandy.exe installed mostly Internet browsers along with a tune-up tool on the test computer. However, as a result of the system requirements, there was a pop-up message indicating that Internet Explorer 8 was not compatible with the computer system in question. In comparison to the malware I’ve encountered since I started researching malware, OpenCandy is everything but malicious. In fact, this application is only categorized as malware because of its’ subtle covert nature of installing bundled programs unsolicited by the user. Additionally, OpenCandy coerces users into changing their Internet Browsers by installing those unrequested by the user. In fact, it’s no shock that OpenCandy chose to install the Internet Browser ‘Opera’ as a part of this bundle since it’s one of the least used browsers according to the Federal Government. Clearly, this was a smoothly disguised advertisement or promotion to force users into using the Opera Browser, along with Internet Explorer 8.0. While these aforementioned browsers in themselves aren’t malicious and are in no way considered malware, they were installed as a promotional tool and without the request of the user. Despite being mentioned within the EULA, advertisers are capitalizing on this since most users do not bother to read the agreements when installing a program. Furthermore, OpenCandy, like most other bundled applications I’ve dealt with, threw in a tune-up tool as a part of the promotion. I found this tune-up application annoying since I had to hassle my way into getting it to close from the computer screen. I can only imagine the hassle users would go through trying to remove this software. Image 7: Depiction of a scan performed by Tuneup Utilities. The scan detected that several areas on the test PC could be optimized/tuned up. Image 8: After a scan was completed using the Tuneup utility program, I was given an option to buy the full version. Nothing is wrong with this marketing strategy. In fact, most utility tools if not all will scan your computer to detect threats or loopholes, but they won't exactly allow you to fix those problems unless you buy the full version. It's not unfair, it's just business. Programs installed during the installation of OpenCandy include:
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All in all, the intent of installing an application such as OpenCandy is to unleash a world of promotion or advertisements on your computer. They are pretty annoying and in some cases difficult to remove. Furthermore, as a user, you want to control what gets installed on your computer without being dictated to or coerced in some EULA that you probably overlook. To completely remove OpenCandy PUP from your computer, click here to download and install Spyhunter.
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Option 1 – Try to allow an app or feature through Windows Firewall

The first thing you can do to get rid of the error is to allow a feature or app through the Windows Firewall. To do this, follow these steps:
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Option 2 – Try to uncheck the HSS DNS leak rule in both private and public

The next thing you can do to fix the error is to uncheck the HSS DNS leak rule in both private and public. You can do this by following these steps:
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Coming in October for insiders and in November for all in the update, Microsoft has prepared a series of updates which they call an "additional set of experiences"

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windows 11 transparency off

File Explorer received a UI makeover in the last update but the tabbed interface was missing which was expected by many users so it will come in following the next update.

The rest of the features that we will receive are an updated Photos application, Suggested Actions in the Windows Shell, Overflow menu for the taskbar, and improved Nearby Share.

The tabbed File Explorer interface is essentially File Explorer’s version of Sets, the tabbed window interface that Microsoft tested out several years ago. In testing, the tabbed interface proved handy for moving and copying files, and we’d expect the same once the feature formally goes live. The difference between Sets and the tabbed File Explorer interface is Sets allowed for multiple applications to be clustered together via tabs.

Photos app will include a “new photos-managing experience that brings a gorgeous gallery, simplifying browsing, finding, management and consumption of your collection of photos.” It will allow “easy backup to OneDrive” and a “delightful Memories experience.”

As for other features, nothing specifically was said except giving just some tips on what will they bring, it is obvious that File Explorer and the photos app were the main focus for MS in this upcoming update.

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Resolve Error 0x80240020 in Windows 10

Error Code 0x80240020 – What is it?

Error code 0x80240020 is a Windows 10 upgrade error code that affects users who attempt to upgrade their Windows operating system. This may occur due to a particular program that blocks the upgrade from completing. It can also result when other PC issues interfere with the upgrade process by disrupting the ability of Windows Update to download updates on one’s machine. Common symptoms of error code 0x80240020 include the following:

  • Message box detailing the presence of error code 0x80240020
  • Inability to complete Windows 10 upgrade process

Solution

Restoro box imageError Causes

Upgrade error codes occur when Windows users experience upgrade failure while using Windows Update, the Microsoft Windows Update website, the Microsoft Update website, or the Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) server. Disruption may cause this process to fail, for instance, due to system file corruptions or problems related to the Windows Update services.

Further Information and Manual Repair

To correct issues related to error codes, it is often best to apply manual repair methods. These help Windows users determine the root causes of the error code and provide solutions that permanently fix these issues. For instance, if error code 0x80240020 on your machine is due to an issue within the Windows Update tool, you will need to first verify that this is the problem by using a troubleshooter option found within your machine’s settings. The troubleshooter will detect and fix the issue.

Most of these manual repair methods can be implemented by any Windows user, regardless of their background, technical abilities, or lack thereof. However, in certain cases, technical skills are required. If you have trouble implementing the procedures highlighted below or in any other error code article found on this site, consider getting help from a Windows repair technician or use a powerful automated tool.

Below are details regarding the manual repair methods for fixing error code 0x80240020. Ensure you follow the instructions correctly. After all, any error you make will likely cause further problems on your machine and prevent you from resolving error code 0x80240020 in Windows 10.

Method One: Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

One way to fix error code 0x80240020 is to troubleshoot Windows Update. To do this you will need to access Settings within your machine then simply select the relevant troubleshooting options available. Follow the instructions below:

  • Step one: Type Settings within search box near Start button then press Enter
  • Step two: In the search box within Settings, type Troubleshooting
  • Step three: Select the troubleshooting option
  • Step four: Under System and Security, select Fix problems with Windows Update
  • Step five: Under Windows Update, select Resolve problems that prevent you from updating Windows.
  • Step six: Click Next and wait for the troubleshooter to detect and fix problems

If there are problems with Windows Update, the troubleshooter will be able to fix them. Once this process is complete, restart your PC and then reopen Windows Update. Attempt to upgrade your Windows operating system. If Windows Update completes the process and your machine downloads and runs the upgrade, you have successfully resolved error code 0x80240020.

If, however, there is another upgrade failure and the message box detailing the presence of error code 0x80240020 in Windows 10 appears, you will need to apply another manual repair procedure. Please see below for further details regarding manual repair method two.

Method Two: Use SFC to Scan and Fix Corrupted System Files

Corrupted or missing system files may interfere with your machine’s ability to successfully download an upgrade. For this reason, scan and fix any problems related to system files on your machine using Command Prompt. This manual repair method is often called a System File Check/ Checker (SFC).

  • Step one: Right-click Start Menu
  • Step two: Select Command Prompt (Admin)
  • Step three: Type sfc /scannow

To ensure you follow this procedure correctly, enter the command as it is written above, with a space between “sfc” and “/scannow”. Once missing, corrupted or damaged files are present on your machine, the SFC command will enable Command Prompt to scan and fix these issues.  Wait until the process is complete then reboot your PC.

With your system successfully rebooted, reattempt the Windows 10 upgrade process in Windows Update or on the Windows Update website. If the issue causing error code 0x80240020 was related to problems with system files, you should be able to complete the upgrade after using the SFC tool.

Method Three: Download an Automated Tool

If you wish to always have at your disposal a utility tool to fix these Windows 10 and other related issues when they do arise, download and install a powerful automated tool.

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After Plex, DoorDash, and LastPass, Samsung has also confirmed that they also have experienced a data breach and that some customer data has been stolen.

samsung HQ

On Friday, September 2nd Samsung announced that an unauthorized third party gained access to some of the company's U.S. systems in late July and that Samsung learned in August that some personal information was affected. It was also stated that affected information is: names, contact information, demographics, dates of birth, and product registration information. Also so far it was said that no Social Security numbers nor credit card number information have been compromised.

For now, Samsung is sending an email directly to anyone that has been affected by this data breach, however, they did not state what service or product has experienced this breach, we just know that it has happened at Samsung Electronics America which sells everything, from smartphones to debit cards. Also keep an eye on your inbox if you are a Samsung user since it took them a whole month in order to go public with this information and there is no justification for this, if it was reported on time people could change their information and take other steps.

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How to Fix Error Code 0xc0000001 on Windows 10

Error Code 0xc0000001 – What Is It?

Error code 0xc0000001 on Windows 10 has been reported by some users when attempting to install Windows 10. When you encounter this error, the setup will be in a loop and the error message will keep popping up.

Solution

Restoro box imageError Causes

If you encounter the error code 0xc0000001 while trying to install Windows 10, it most probably be due to corrupted installation file. However, it can also be caused by any of the following:”

  • Damaged SAM file
  • Damaged system files
  • File system integrity compromised
  • Damaged RAM

Further Information and Manual Repair

Here are some methods that will help you fix the error code 0xc0000001 while trying to install Windows 10. Do not perform these methods unless you’re absolutely confident you can do it properly. Otherwise, you might make things worse.

If you’re not that confident, consider seeking advice from a technical expert. If you can’t afford one, you may want to consider getting an automated software to fix the job.

Method 1: Convert drive/partition to GPT

If you need to manually wipe the drive and then convert it to GPT, follow these steps:

  • Step 1: Power down your computer and put your Windows 10 installation DVD or USB drive
  • Step 2: Boot your computer to the USB or DVD key in UEFI mode.
  • Step 3: Once you’re at the Windows 10 Setup, press the Shift+F10 keys. This will open the command prompt window.
  • Step 4: Open diskpart tool from CMD. Just type diskpart and enter.
  • Step 5: Then, type the list disk on CMD again. Press enter. This will allow you to identify your computer’s drive that you want to reformat.
  • Step 6: Choose the drive and reformat it by typing the following on the command prompt:

select disk <disk number> (press enter)

clean (press enter)

convert gpt (press enter)

exit (press enter)

  • Step 7: Proceed with the Windows 10 Setup installation.

Note: when you’re prompted to choose the installation type, make sure to choose Custom. Then, choose unallocated space and click Next. This will automatically start the installation of Windows 10.

Method 2: Use Media Creation Tool to Perform Automatic Repair

Automatic Repair is a Windows feature/utility that allows you to fix certain system problems preventing you from installing or starting Windows. It works by scanning your computer system for any potential problem and tries to fix it.

  • Step 1: Download the Media Creation Tool
  • Step 2: Boot your computer using the Windows 10 DVD, or the System Repair disc. When you’re asked to press any key to boot, just press any key on your keyboard.
  • Step 3: Choose the right time and the keyboard type.
  • Step 4: Click Repair your computer. You’ll see this in the lower-left corner of your screen.
  • Step 5: Choose Troubleshoot from Choose an option screen
  • Step 6: Click Advanced options
  • Step 7: Choose an automatic repair

This will automatically run the utility.

Method 3: Check Hardware Devices

Another possible reason why you are getting this error while installing Windows 10 is due to the connected external hard drives. To fix this, power down your computer. Afterward, unplug and remove all connected external hard drives. If you’re using USB device to install Windows 10, ensure your BIOS is set to boot your computer from the USB.

Method 4: Create New Copy of Windows 10 Installer

Another possible reason why you experience this error is that your copy of the Windows 10 installer is corrupted. To fix this, it’s better to create a new copy of the Windows 10 installer.

  • Step 1: Go to this link
  • Step 2: Click the Download tool now. Choose Run with admin privileges
  • Step 3: On What do you want to do? section, choose installation media for another PC. Click Next.
  • Step 4: Select edition, language, and architecture (32-bit or 64-bit).
  • Step 5: Choose the media you want to use. If you want to use a USB flash drive, make sure the device at least has 5GB of free space. If you’re using an ISO file, you need to save the file first on your computer and then burn the file to a DVD.

Method 5: Use a Powerful Automated Tool

If you still encounter these errors after performing the above methods, find a trustworthy automated tool. As long as the automated tool is powerful and reliable, it will help you fix this error.

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Ever gotten an e-mail offer that seemed just a little bit too good to be true? Might’ve been a phishing attempt! These are everywhere and can come in many different forms. 

So what’s phishing exactly, how can you detect it and how can you keep safe?

What is phishing?

Phishing (pronounced like fishing) is a type of cyberattack that tricks the user into trusting the source and revealing sensitive information. Fishing being the perfect analogy, the bait is a legitimate-looking site, e-mail or file and when you take a bite, your identity, banking information and much more can be revealed and stolen.

Phishing Illustration
Credit: Anne Nygård on Unsplash

Some phishing attempts are incredibly obvious, others are super elaborate. Like with most types of malware, cybercriminals have become extremely well-versed in phishing and anyone can fall for it. To help you recognize and avoid it, we’ll take you through a couple of phishing types and give you tips on what to do if faced with them.

Phishing techniques

E-mail phishing

This is actually the most common type of phishing. A cybercriminal creates an e-mail containing stuff like attractive offers, legitimate-looking attachments or links and makes it appear as though it’s coming from a trusted source.

Illustration of Email Phishing
Credit: Justin Morgan on Unsplash

For example, it looks like it’s coming from your bank or your favorite retailer. The logo looks legit and the structure of the e-mail seems familiar, so you might get tricked into clicking on whatever clickable content is in it.

Unfortunately this exposes your device to malware that hands your data off to the hacker, who can decide what to do with it further.

SMS and social media phishing

Like the above example, you could be approached with lucrative offers or links via text messages or social media messages. Typically, the messages seem relevant to the user as they will be made to look like they’re related to apps or services you’re using.

Voice phishing

Voice phishing attacks are schemes that appear as though they’re coming from a credible number. Normally, you’ll get a call about something related to credit cards or taxes to get you into a state of worry, leading you to disclose personal information on the phone.

Spear phishing, whaling and BEC

Spear phishing normally targets specific individuals within a company who are likely to have access to sensitive data. Spear phishers spend time collecting information they can use to reach out to the individual looking as trustworthy as possible. They’ll typically lead with something relevant, for example mentioning an upcoming company event, and make a seemingly legitimate request.

Whaling is a more elaborate form of spear phishing, which targets people in even stronger positions such as executives or high-value individuals. The ultimate goal is to get them to transfer financial or other sensitive information that can be used to compromise the entire business.

Spear Phishing Illustration
Credit: Azamat E on Unsplash

BEC, or Business e-mail compromise, is a specific spear phishing technique carried out via e-mail. While there are many ways this is done, most commonly you’ll see instances where the phisher poses as a CEO or similar executive, or as a lower-level employee in specific positions (e.g. sales managers or financial controllers).

In the first situation, the impersonator reaches out to employees requesting them to transfer certain files or pay invoices. In the second situation, the phisher takes control of the employee’s e-mail account and sends false instructions to other employees in order to obtain data and information from them.

What can you do?

There are many ways you can be aware and spot a phishing attempt. Here are some tips:

  • Always check the sender’s address in your e-mails, even when they seem to come from a familiar source.
  • In any instance where payment information is requested, be very, very careful.
  • If you are receiving attachments you never asked for and definitely didn’t expect, better not click on them. 
  • Beware of content that transmits a sense of urgency (sales deals, urgent updates to login credentials, etc.).
  • Bad spelling and grammar are usually a telltale sign of phishing.
  • Links that look shortened (e.g. Bit.ly) or just suspicious in general - if you have a bad feeling, do not click on them.
  • If you are receiving threats, you probably shouldn’t be clicking on anything in that message.
  • Always examine first-time senders in detail.
  • Block suspicious e-mail addresses, numbers and social media accounts.
  • If you are receiving a coupon for free stuff… You aren’t.
  • If you’re being asked to update your payment details by a service you use, such as Netflix, chances are it’s an impersonator.

Those are some of the ways to identify and prevent phishing attacks. However, sometimes phishers disguise themselves a little too well or a misclick happens and there you go - you’ve been exposed to malware.

Illustration of a Lock on Keyboard Keys
Credit: FLY:D on Unsplash

This won’t happen if you invest in powerful protection software from the get-go, though. A good antivirus program like Bitdefender will keep you safe from becoming a victim of phishing scams. In fact, it will protect you from malicious attacks overall.

Be it your household or your business you’re concerned about, there are a bunch of different packages and options available, providing different kinds of cybersecurity services. That’s the only way you can ever really be sure you aren’t at risk of a digital attack.

Summary

Have you ever been targeted by phishers and didn’t know that’s what it was until you read this article? Many can relate. Protect yourself before it’s too late!

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Fix Gah, Your tab just crashed in Firefox
If you notice that your tabs in your Firefox browser keep on crashing recently, then there might be something wrong with your browser. Every time any of your tabs crashes, you might encounter an error message saying, “Gah, Your tab just crashed”. If you encounter this kind of error message then it is most likely that your Firefox Profile is having some issues with the existing installation of Firefox. The “Gah, Your tab just crashed” error rarely happens but when it does, it can get quite annoying as you won’t get to browse the internet peacefully. So to fix it, here are some suggestions you could check out.

Option 1 – Try disabling multi-process tabs in Firefox

Since Mozilla has one process for Firefox itself, while one process handles all the tabs, you have the option to disable these multi-process tabs in Firefox. To do that, follow these steps:
  • In the address bar of Firefox, type “about: config” and hit Enter.
  • Next, look for the following configurations and set them to false.
    • tabs.remote.autostart = false
    • tabs.remote.autostart.2 = false
  • After that, double-click on the toggle switch between true and false.

Option 2 – Try checking your Add-ons

In this option, you need to start Firefox in Safe Mode and then check if the problem is fixed. If it is, you may have to check your Firefox add-ons as well as extensions as one of them might be the one that's causing the “Gah, Your tab just crashed” error.

Option 3 – Downgrade the Firefox version you’re using

It could be that the current version of Firefox you’re using has some issues so you might have to downgrade it, especially if you are already using the latest version. To downgrade your Firefox browser, go to the directory of the other versions and languages and select an older version that worked for you. After that, you have to disable automatic Firefox updates.
  • First, click the menu button and select Preferences.
  • Next, go to the Firefox Updates section under the General panel.
  • Then select the radio button labeled “Check for updates but let you choose to install them”. This will ensure that you will not have the same issue with the new update.
Note that this is only a temporary fix since updating your programs, including browsers.

Option 4 – Try sending Crash Reports

You might want to send crash reports to Mozilla. This way, Mozilla might come up with some fix to resolve the problem. All you have to do is type “about: crashes” in the address bar. This will list all the crash reports. Now send it to Mozilla using the built-in interface. Although this won’t instantly fix the problem, a lot of user finds it useful. And besides, the issue will get fixed in future releases or with minor updates.
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