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Fix NMI_HARDWARE_FAILURE in Windows

If you encounter the NMI_HARDWARE_FAILURE Blue Screen error while using your Windows 10 computer, then read on as this post will guide you in resolving this kind of Blue Screen of Death error.

NMI HARDWARE FAILURE or “Non-Maskable Interrupt” Blue Screen error occurs when there is some hardware malfunction in your computer. When you encounter this Blue Screen error, you may get a stop code of 0x00000080 which can randomly occur while you use your computer. However, a lot of users reported encountering this error while they were trying to update or install their Graphics Card drivers.

The stop code that you may get for this BSOD error is 0x00000080. The error can occur randomly during your usage of the computer – but a large number of users have reported this error while they are updating or installing their Graphics Card drivers. In this post, we will be covering all the possible fixes for this error.

NMI_HARDWARE_FAILURE error on Windows

The NMI_HARDWARE_FAILURE bug check has a value of 0x00000080. This bug check indicates that a hardware malfunction has occurred. There are various hardware malfunctions that can cause this kind of Blue Screen error. However, pinpointing the exact cause is quite difficult. Worry no more for the following fixes provided below can help you resolve the NMI_HARDWARE_FAILURE Blue Screen error no matter what the cause of the problem is.

Option 1 – Try removing hardware or drivers that you’ve installed recently

If you have recently installed some hardware or drivers, you might want to disable or remove them since external devices are proven to be one of the factors that trigger Blue Screen errors like NMI_HARDWARE_FAILURE. All you have to do is physically disconnect any external devices that are connected to your computer and then check if it fixes the BSOD error or not.

Option 2 – Try to rollback, update, or disable the Graphics card drivers

Since the NMI_HARDWARE_FAILURE Blue Screen error has something to do with Graphics card drivers, you can either roll back, update or disable them depending on your preference in order to resolve the error.

  • First, boot your computer into Safe Mode.
  • After that, tap the Win + R keys to launch Run.
  • Type in devmgmt.msc into the box and tap Enter or click OK to open the Device Manager.
  • After that, a list of device drivers will be displayed. From there, look for the Display Adapters and click on them.
  • After that, right-click on each entry under the Display Adapters and select the “Uninstall Device” option from the menu.
  • Now restart your computer.
  • After restarting your computer, go to the Settings app and Check for Updates in the Windows Update section.

Note: You also have the option to go directly to the website of your graphics card manufacturers like NVIDIA, Intel, or AMD and go to the section called Drivers then check if there’s a new available update – if there is, download and install it.

Option 3 – Make sure that all memory modules have the same type

This third option is quite technical and tricky. If you often use multiple physical RAMS on your Windows 10 computer, then you have to check first if they are of the same frequency. After that, the first thing you should verify is if the chip is properly compatible or not. And if the sockets are attached using some kind of adapter or non-recommended device, it could cause some issues while giving a performance hit to your computer.  If you were able to find such a setup, you have to undo it or install the proper and recommended as well as compatible hardware.

Option 4 – Try to run the Blue Screen Troubleshooter

As you know, the Blue Screen troubleshooter is a built-in tool in Windows 10 that helps users in fixing BSOD errors like the NMI_HARDWARE_FAILURE 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.

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There is No Sleep Option in Power Menu
If the Sleep option is missing from the Power Menu then this could be caused by the power settings, local group policy configuration, etc. in your computer. Based on the reports of users who experience the same problem, the issue occurred after they’ve updated or upgraded their Windows 10 computers. As you know, the sleep mode is quite useful in certain cases and is utilized by most users. If you put your computer in sleep mode, it actually minimizes the power usage of your computer while at the same time keeps your current session running. So if sleep mode is suddenly missing, then that could be a problem but worry not for this post will give you possible fixes to resolve the issue. Make sure to follow each one of them carefully to achieve good results.

Option 1 – Check the Power settings

As mentioned, one of the reasons why the Sleep option is missing could be the power settings in your computer. To check this possibility, make sure that you’ve enabled the sleep mode in the Power options setting window. How? Refer to these steps:
  • First, go to the Start menu, and from there open Control Panel.
  • Next, set the View by Large icons and select the Power Options.
  • After that, click on the “Choose what the power buttons do” option on the left-hand side.
  • Then click on the “Change settings that are currently unavailable” option and make sure that Sleep is checked under the Shutdown settings.
  • Afterward, click on Save changes.

Option 2 – Modify the Local Group Policy

If the Power setting isn’t the cause of the problem, then you might want to check the Local Group Policy and modify it. There is a dedicated policy for showing the sleep option in the power menu and if this policy is disabled, then it’s no wonder why you don’t see the sleep option in the power menu. To change this policy, refer to the steps below.
  • Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
  • Then type “gpedit.msc” in the field and hit Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.
  • Next, navigate to this path: Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> File Explorer
  • Look for the “Show sleep in the power options menu” option from the right-hand side pane and double click on it.
  • Now change it to Enabled and click on the Apply and OK buttons to save the changes made and restart your computer.

Option 3 – Try to turn on Standby

Standby, also known as InstantGo, is a feature in Windows 8 and 10 that allows users to maintain network connectivity after a computer has been put into sleep mode. Thus, if this feature is disabled, it can cause the Sleep option to disappear from the power menu. To turn it on, follow these steps:
  • Tap the Win + R keys to open Run.
  • And type “Regedit” in the field and tap Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  • Next, navigate to this path: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetControlPower
  • From this path, look for the “CsEnabled” key on the right-hand side of the pane and double-click on it.
  • Set its value to “1” and click OK to save the changes made.
  • Now reboot your PC.
Note: If you were not able to find the CsEnabled key, then this indicates that your computer does not support the Standby feature. And if that’s the case, proceed to the next given option below.

Option 4 – Try to install a Video Card driver

On the other hand, some users reported that the problem was caused by the video card driver. And if your computer lacks the video adapter driver, it can also cause the same problem. Windows 10 typically install the video card driver on its own, however, there are rare cases when it doesn’t which is why you have to do it yourself manually. All you have to do is go to your manufacturer’s website and look for the video card driver, download it and then install it. Once you’ve installed the video card driver, reboot your computer and check if it has fixed the problem.
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Fix Folder Redirection Failed in Windows
If you got an error message saying, “Folder Redirection Failed, Failed to build the list of regular subfolders, Access is Denied” after you configured a new Group Policy Object or GPO which redirects User folders to a new network share or when you click on Reset default location under the Windows File Explorer or Folder Options, then you’ve come to the right place as this post will show you how to resolve this kind of error on your Windows 10 computer. Follow the given options below carefully to fix the “Folder Redirection Failed” error.

Option 1 – Take Ownership of the folder

If you are not able to access the folder could be one of the reasons why you’re getting the “Folder Redirection Failed” error and so you need to take ownership of the folder to resolve the problem. Before you proceed, make sure that your account is an admin account.
  • First, locate the concerned folder and right-click on it then select Properties.
  • Next, click on the Edit button in the Properties window and click OK to confirm if you got a User Account Control elevation request.
  • After that, select user/group from the permission windows or click on the Add button to add another user or group. It would be best if you add “Everyone” to give permission.
  • Then check “Full Control” under the “Allow” column to assign full access rights control permissions.
  • Now edit the permission to Full Control for “Everyone”.
  • Click OK to save the changes made and then exit.

Option 2 – Try to add Authenticated Users or Domain Computers

Make sure that the Folder Redirection group policy removal option is set to “Redirect the folder back to the user profile location when the policy is removed” when using the Folder Redirection. After that, you have to add Authenticated Users group with the “Read” permissions on the Group Policy Objects or GPOs. And if the Domain computers are part of the group of “Authenticated Users”. Note that by default, the “Authenticated Users” have these permissions on any new Group Policy Objects or GPOs. Once again, you have to add just “Read” permissions and not “Apply Group Policy” for “Authenticated Users”. Furthermore, to fix the “Failed to build the list of regular subfolders” errors, here are some options that could help.

Option a – Try to clear disk space

You might have to check if your disk is running out of space because if it is, then it will fail to create a list abruptly. And so you need to free up some disk space. You can either check on the files manually especially if you tend to keep your files at random places in your disk drive.

Option b – Find the Target route

You need to find the target route of the folder and then restore it if you are getting the “Failed to build the list of regular subdirectories” when you try to relocate the folder to the original location.

Option c – Try to change Ownership/Reset Defaults for all the User folders

If the “Failed to build the list of regular subdirectories” error pops up when you are trying to move a large number of files from one location to another, then you need to change the ownership of the folders as pointed out earlier.
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Chrome automatically opens a new tab
Recently, a number of users reported that their Google Chrome browsers keep on opening new tabs no matter what they do. This issue could be due to lots of reasons but the main ones are corrupt installation, background applications, adware, dubious browser extensions, malware, and so on. Although there are a lot of possible causes for this particular issue in Chrome, its potential fixes are straightforward so you should not have any problem following the given options below.

Option 1 – Get rid of any conflicting browser extensions

As mentioned, shady browser extensions can cause unusual behavior in a browser. Chances are, these extensions or toolbars might be conflicting with the loading of the website. Thus, you have to get rid of these unwanted extensions and toolbars to fix the issue.
  • Open Chrome and press Alt + F keys.
  • Go to More tools and click Extensions to look for any suspicious browser extensions or toolbars.
  • Click the Recycle bin and select Remove.
  • Restart Chrome and press Alt + F keys again.
  • Proceed to On Startup and mark Open a specific page or set of pages.
  • To check if the browser hijacker is still active, click Set pages, if it is active, overwrite the URL.

Option 2 – Try to disable applications from running in the background

  • Open Google Chrome and then click on the menu button located in the top-right corner.
  • From the drop-down, select Settings and then scroll down until you see the Advanced button. Click on it.
  • Next, turn off the toggle for “Continue running background apps when Google Chrome is closed” under the System section.
  • Now restart Chrome and check if it is working properly.

Option 3 – Try to configure the search settings of Chrome

  • Open Google Chrome and type any search query in the address bar and then tap Enter.
  • After that, it will open the Google search engine. From the top-right corner, click the Settings button.
  • Next, select Search settings from the drop-down menu.
  • Then scroll down to the new page that appears and make sure that the “Open New Window for each result” option is set to Uncheck.
  • Once you’re done, save the changes made and restart Google Chrome.

Option 4 – Reset Chrome

Resetting Chrome can also help you fix the error. This means that you will be restoring its default settings, disabling all the extensions, add-ons and themes. Aside from that, the content settings will be reset as well and the cookies, cache, and site data will also be deleted. To reset Chrome, here’s what you have to do:
  • Open Google Chrome, then tap the Alt + F keys.
  • After that, click on Settings.
  • Next, scroll down until you see the Advanced option, once you see it, click on it.
  • After clicking the Advanced option, go to the “Restore and clean up option and click on the “Restore settings to their original defaults” option to reset Google Chrome.
  • Now restart Google Chrome.

Option 5 – Try to clean reinstall Chrome

There are instances when programs leave files behind after you’ve uninstalled them and the same thing can happen to Chrome so before you reinstall Chrome, you have to make sure that you have deleted the User Data folder. To do so, refer to the following steps:
  • Hit the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
  • Next, type “%LOCALAPPDATA%GoogleChromeUser Data” in the field and hit Enter to open the User Data folder.
  • From there, rename the default folder and name it something else, e.g. “Default.old”.
  • After that, install Google Chrome again and check if the issue is now fixed.

Option 6 – Try scanning your computer using Windows Defender

As mentioned, the error when accessing the security settings or properties of a folder or file might be due to a virus or malware. It could be that it had made some modifications that prevents you from accessing security settings or properties. To eliminate it, you have to scan your computer using security programs like Windows Defender.
  • Tap the Win + I keys to open Update & Security.
  • Then click on the Windows Security option and open Windows Defender Security Center.
  • Next, click on Virus & threat protection > Run a new advanced scan.
  • Now make sure that Full Scan is selected from the menu and then click the Scan Now button to get started.
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What to do if the Windows Wireless Service in Windows 10 is not running
When experiencing internet connection problems, most users run the built-in troubleshooter to fix the problem. However, you might come across another problem when instead of fixing the problem, the troubleshooter throws up an error message saying, “The Windows Wireless Service is not running on this computer”. After displaying this error message, the troubleshooter would exit. Usually, this kind of error indicates that Windows has failed to initialize the wireless service so it can start searching for broadcast signals and try to connect to them. So in this post, we have prepared some workarounds that might help you resolve the issue.

Option 1 – Try to check the WLAN Status

You have to make sure that the wireless service is enabled in your computer before you proceed to the other troubleshooting options below as this error could occur for a simple reason as the wireless capability is turned off from your PC either on some built-in settings or physically. This is why you need to make sure that Wireless is enabled. And if it turns out that it is disabled, you need to turn it back on and then reconnect to the wireless network again. You should now be able to connect to the internet without any issue.

Option 2 – Try to check the WLAN AutoConfig Service

The WLAN AutoConfig service is the one that provides the logic and functionality required to discover, connect and configure wireless networks with your PC. Aside from that, it also contains the module that allows your PC to be discoverable to other systems on a network. Thus, you need to verify if the WLAN AutoConfig service is on or not.
  • Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
  • And in the field, type in “services.msc” and hit Enter to open Services.
  • After opening the Services window, look for the entry named “WLAN AutoConfig” and then right-click on it and select Properties from the context menu.
  • Next, click on the Start button to turn on the service and then set the startup type as “Automatic”.
  • Then try to connect to your Wireless network again and check if the issue has been resolved.

Option 3 – Try to reset the Network Configurations

Resetting the Network Configurations can also help you in fixing the Windows Wireless service as the network settings often get disrupted or corrupted in a variety of different cases every now and then. Note that this module will reset all the network settings stored on your computer.
  • Tap the Win + S keys to open Search and then type in “command prompt” in the field.
  • From the search results that appear, right-click on Command Prompt and select the “Run as administrator” option.
  • After opening Command Prompt, copy and paste the following command and hit Enter to execute it:
netsh winsock reset
  • The command given will reset the Winsock data. Once it is executed, restart your PC for the changes to take effect and then check if the internet connection is now fine.
Note: Do make sure that the WiFi drivers are up to date. To do that, follow these steps:
  • 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. If you see a red or yellow sign that shows up against the driver, right-click on the driver’s name and select “Update Driver Software” or “Uninstall”. 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.
  • Restart your PC.
Note: You also have the option to go directly to the website of your graphics card manufacturer and check if there’s a new update – if there is, download it.

Option 4 – Perform System Restore

Recently, a lot of issues have resurfaced after users installed the latest Windows update. So the wireless service issue might also be related to it. To fix the problem, you can perform System Restore to roll back your Windows to the last time when it was working just fine. It automatically creates backups in time whenever you install a new update or periodically. Follow the steps below to perform System Restore.
  • Tap the Win + S keys to open Search and then type in “restore” in the field and select the topmost result.
  • Once you’ve opened the restore settings, click on System Restore located at the beginning of the window under the System Protection tab.
  • After that, a wizard will appear that will guide you through all the steps needed to restore the system. You can choose either the recommended restore point or a different one.
  • After you select the restore point, click Next to proceed to the next on-screen instructions.
  • Then select the restore point where the Windows Update was installed on your computer. If you have more than one restore point, you can just select the latest restore point and check the functionality from there. If it doesn’t work, you can just try another restore point.
  • Another prompt will appear and will ask you to confirm your actions. Click OK and wait for the system to be restored. Once it’s done, check if the problem’s now fixed.
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How to Fix Error Code HPQTRA08.exe

HPQTRA08.exe - What is it?

HPQTRA08.exe (Hewlett Packard Tray 08) is the Hewlett Packard Digital Imaging Monitor task. It is installed with the drivers of HP imaging products like PhotoSmart Printers.

It incessantly monitors and indicates the connectivity status with any recognizable HP product.

Simply put, HPQTRA08.exe is an exe (executable) file that contains step-by-step instructions that a computer follows to carry out a function.

HPQTRA08.exe error code is displayed in any of the following formats:

  • "Hpqtra08.exe Application Error."
  • "Cannot find hpqtra08.exe."
  • "Hpqtra08.exe not found."
  • "Error starting program: hpqtra08.exe."
  • "Hpqtra08.exe is not a valid Win32 application."
  • "Hpqtra08.exe failed."
  • "Faulting Application Path: hpqtra08.exe."
  • "Hpqtra08.exe has encountered a problem and needs to close. We are sorry for the inconvenience."
  • "Hpqtra08.exe is not running."

Solution

Restoro box imageError Causes

Error code HPQTRA08.exe can be triggered for several reasons. However, some of the most common causes include:

  • Corrupt Windows registry keys
  • Virus infection
  • Deleted, damaged, or corrupted HPQTRA08.exe file
  • HPQTRA08.exe file conflict
  • Corrupt or incomplete installation of Hp Digital Imaging

It is advisable to repair the error code HPQTRA08.exe on your PC immediately. Delays can lead to serious problems especially if the underlying cause of the error is related to registry corruption.

Further Information and Manual Repair

To resolve this error on your PC, you don’t need to hire a professional and pay hundreds of dollars for the repair. Simply try the DIY methods listed below to fix the problem right away.

Method 1 - Download and Install HPQTRA08.exe File

If the error cause is related to deleted, corrupted, or damaged HPQTRA08.exe file, then the best way to fix the problem is to install the HPQTRA08.exe file on your PC.

However, first, make sure the site you select to download the file from is reliable and trusted.

By downloading from an unreliable website you can expose your PC to potential malicious programs and risk your data security.

Method 2 - Remove all Viruses

Sometimes viruses and malware tend to disguise in the form of exe files such as the HPQTRA08.exe file.

In such a situation scan your entire PC for viruses and malware using a powerful antivirus. Remove all the malicious programs found to fix the issue.

Method 3 - Clean and Repair the Registry

The registry saves all PC-related activities and information including both important and obsolete files such as cookies, bad registry entries, invalid keys, internet history, and junk files.

If these files are not removed from the registry frequently, these accumulate in the registry and corrupt thereby triggering error codes. Error code HPQTRA08.exe is generated when the corrupt Windows registry keys are associated with the HPQTRA08.exe file.

To resolve, clean the registry and repair it. Although this can be done manually it can be time-consuming and tricky especially if you are not technically sound, therefore it is advisable to download Restoro.

Click here to download Restoro and resolve error HPQTRA08.exe.

Method 4 - Locate and Install the Driver

As was pointed out, you might need to reinstall the printer driver again. Using DriverFIX, you’ll be able to automatically update your computer system and install the drivers your computer needs to operate smoothly.
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How to Turn off Advertising ID in Windows
In case you don’t know, Microsoft hooks up every machine that is running Windows 10 with an Advertising ID which helps them in providing Windows 10 users with relevant ads. These ads are delivered to users in the Action Center, Start Menu as well as the ads inside the UWP Applications. What makes these advertisements relevant is that they keep track of your browsing trends, likes and dislikes, with the help of the Advertising ID. However, if you are not fond of advertisements and you do not want this feature of Microsoft to track your usage, worry not for you actually have the option to disable targeted ads on your Windows 10 computer by turning off the Advertising ID. And you can do that during Windows 10 Setup or using the Group Policy Editor. For more details, refer to the instructions provided below for each one of the methods.

Option 1 – Turn off Advertising ID during Windows 10 setup

If you are about to install Windows 10, then during the installation process, your computer boots into the Install and Configure Windows 10 screen with Cortana that assist you during the setup. Once you reach the last page which is “Choose privacy settings for your device”, you will see the Advertising ID of your computer. Under the Advertising ID, you have to disable or toggle off the “Apps can use advertising ID to provide more personalized advertising in accordance with the privacy policy of the app provider” option. After you disable it, click on the Accept button to proceed with the installation. After that, the copy of your Windows 10 you are using will have the Advertising ID disabled by default.

Option 2 – Turn off Advertising ID via Group Policy Editor

  • First, tap the Win + R keys to launch the Run utility.
  • Then, type “gpedit.msc” in the field and click OK or tap Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.
  • Next, navigate to this group policy setting: Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > User Profiles
  • Now double click on the “Turn off the advertising ID” option and set the radio button to Enabled. Once you do, you will see the following description on your screen:
“This policy setting turns off the advertising ID, preventing apps from using the ID for experiences across apps. If you enable this policy setting, the advertising ID is turned off. Apps can’t use the ID for experiences across apps. If you disable or do not configure this policy setting, users can control whether apps can use the advertising ID for experiences across apps.” Note that setting the radio button to Enabled or Not Configured will turn off the data collection of the Advertising ID.
  • Finally, exit the Group Policy Editor and then restart your computer to apply the changes made successfully.
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Free Quake upgrade comes to Steam and more
quake remasterWithout any fanfare, news, or information Bethesda has released a completely free upgrade for legendary Quake 1. Free upgrade is automatically applied to all users who possess the original game and it has already been rolled out.

What has changed for good?

New textures, effects, and resolutions are one thing that will come first into your focus when you start the game. From the moment game is started it feels and looks like a game you remember from a long time ago. Models are also upgraded with a higher polygon count. Another thing that will hit you right away is the legendary OST by Trent Reznor in its full glory. If you have the original Quake and played it you will know that OST was missing from the Steam release and having it fully back is a great feature. I would argue that placing just OST alone in the steam release is enough for people to play it again since it adds so much atmosphere. Deathmatch and other multiplayer goodies are all here as well and there is a completely free new episode in the game with several levels. Yes, you get a free Quake upgrade in HD with an extra episode completely free.

The bad side of Quake coin

So this might come as a purist or obsessive nit-picking but there were two things that I, personally am not a fan of and have noticed during my gameplay. Please know that this is personal preference and by no other chance reflects the quality of the game itself but I just had to talk about it. Quake remake is made in a new engine and as such dynamic and gunplay feel different from the original, granted they have done the best they could to replicate the authentic feeling of the original game but there are parts of the game where I have felt that simply put, it feels different. Another thing is also tied to technology and the overall game is somewhat a little brighter and in some areas little softer in dark areas. Like I said this is purely personal preference and might come as nitpicking but I preferred the darker and grittier look of the original game. Darkplaces, the free custom-made upgrade did this in my opinion better.
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How to remove Aro 2012 from your Computer.

Aro2012 is a PC Optimizer Software that typically comes bundled with other software. Even though Aro2012 poses no threat itself, the programs that it comes bundled with may pose a problem to your computer.

From the Author: ARO is an advanced repair and optimization utility designed to help improve and maintain computers running the Windows operating system (both 32- and 64-bit). ARO focuses on finding errors that hide out in the Windows registry, identifying PC and web browser clutter that may be hindering PC performance, and ensuring computers have adequate security solutions installed and up to date. With its advanced scanning engine, ARO provides deep scanning capabilities to identify and repair registry errors. ARO also searches for and removes “junk” files that accumulate over time and can put a damper on PC performance.

When installed Aro2012 creates a startup entry that allows it to run each time the computer is started. It also adds a task scheduler that allows it to run at various times.

About Potentially Unwanted Applications

Have you ever found an unwanted program on your computer system and pondered how it got there since you are sure you didn’t purposefully download and never gave authorization to be installed? A PUA / PUP (potentially unwanted application / potentially unwanted program) is a piece of software that comes bundled with freeware/shareware and you agree to install on your computer. These are programs you definitely don’t want on your PC since it doesn’t give any beneficial service. The term PUP was first coined to outline this downloadable crapware as something other than malicious software. The reason is, most PUPs get into a PC not because they slip via the security holes, for instance, but because the users have installed them by themselves – 100 % unintentionally needless to say. PUPs might not be malware but nevertheless, they are dangerous programs for your laptop or computer. At best, these types of unwanted programs provide hardly any benefit, and at worst, they can be quite harmful to your computer.

What do PUPs do on your PC, precisely?

Most Potentially Unwanted Programs comes in the form of adware, which typically aims to exhibit lots of annoying pop-up ads, banners, coupons, and bargains on web pages you explore. PUPS also comes in the form of unwanted toolbars or browser plug-ins. Not only they entirely take up space on your computer screen, but toolbars could also manipulate search engine results, track your surfing activities, decrease your internet browser’s overall performance, and slow down your internet connection to a crawl. They could appear innocent but PUPs tend to be spyware. And in the large majority of the cases, end-users will not be aware that they’re installing an unwanted program. These are software programs that don’t do anything useful to you; in addition to taking up space on your hard disk drive, they will also slow down your computer, often modify settings without your permission, and the list of frustrating features goes on and on.

How can you avoid ‘crapware’

• Read the fine print so that the end-user license agreement (EULA) you’re accepting is only for the program you actually intend to download. • Always choose “Custom” or “Advanced” installation and never blindly click the Next button, which should let you uncheck any “foistware” software programs you do not want. • Have a solid anti-virus program such as Safebytes Anti-malware that can protect your computer from PUPs. As soon as you install this software, protection from malware and PUPs is already turned on. • Avoid installing a freeware application you will not use. Nowadays ‘freeware’ isn’t actually freeware – but “crapware” bundling nonsense. • Don’t download software programs from pop-ups, online advertisements, file sharing websites, as well as other unreliable sources; look out for any preset, unwanted options when downloading the program. Avoid visiting blogs and sites that support pirated programs.

What To Do When You Cannot Install Any Anti-Malware?

Practically all malware is inherently unsafe, but certain kinds of malicious software do a lot more damage to your computer than others. Some malware is designed to interfere with or prevent things that you’d like to do on your computer. It may well not permit you to download anything from the net or it will prevent you from accessing some or all of the websites, especially the antivirus sites. If you’re reading this, odds are you’re stuck with a malware infection that is preventing you to download and install the Safebytes Anti-Malware program on your computer. Although this type of issue will be harder to get around, there are some actions you can take.

Install in Safe Mode

If the malware is set to load at Windows startup, then booting in safe mode should avoid it. Only minimal required applications and services are loaded when you start your computer into Safe Mode. To launch your Windows XP, Vista, or 7 computers in Safe Mode with Networking, follow the instructions below. 1) At power-on/startup, hit the F8 key in 1-second intervals. This should bring up the Advanced Boot Options menu. 2) Use the arrow keys to select Safe Mode with Networking and hit ENTER. 3) Once this mode loads, you should have internet access. Now, get the virus removal application you need by using the internet browser. To install the program, follow the guidelines within the setup wizard. 4) Immediately after installation, do a complete scan and let the software get rid of the threats it detects.

Download the antivirus program in a different internet browser

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

Install and run anti-malware from a Thumb drive

Another option is to create a portable antivirus program on your USB flash drive. Adopt these measures to use a thumb drive to clean your corrupted system. 1) Make use of another virus-free computer to download Safebytes Anti-Malware. 2) Insert the USB drive on the same computer. 3) Double-click the Setup icon of the antivirus software to run the Installation Wizard. 4) Select the USB flash drive as the destination for saving the software file. Follow the on-screen instructions to finish the installation process. 5) Now, insert the pen drive into the corrupted PC. 6) Run the Safebytes Anti-malware directly from the flash drive by double-clicking the icon. 7) Simply click “Scan Now” to run a scan on the affected computer for viruses.

SafeBytes Anti-Malware: Lightweight Malware Protection for Windows PC

Want to install the very best anti-malware software for your laptop or computer? There are plenty of applications available that come in paid and free versions for Windows systems. Some of them are excellent, some are ok types, and some will ruin your PC themselves! You need to pick out a product that has obtained a good reputation and detects not only viruses but other kinds of malware also. On the list of strongly recommended applications by industry experts is SafeBytes Anti-Malware, the most dependable program for Microsoft Windows. SafeBytes can be described as a powerful, real-time antivirus application that is designed to assist the typical computer user in protecting their computer from malicious threats. Using its outstanding protection system, this software will quickly detect and get rid of most of the security threats, including adware, viruses, browser hijackers, ransomware, trojans, worms, and PUPs. SafeBytes has got a plethora of wonderful features that can help you protect your computer from malware attacks and damage. A few of them are given as below: Active Protection: SafeBytes provides round-the-clock protection for your personal computer limiting malware attacks instantly. It’ll continuously monitor your laptop or computer for hacker activity and also gives users superior firewall protection. Most Reliable AntiMalware Protection: With a critically acclaimed malware engine, SafeBytes gives multilayered protection which is designed to catch and remove viruses and malware which are concealed deep in your computer. Extremely Speed Scanning: SafeBytes’s very fast malware scanning engine lessens scanning times and extends battery life. At the same time, it will effectively detect and remove infected computer files or any internet threat. Website Filtering: Through its unique safety ranking, SafeBytes notifies you whether a website is safe or not to access it. This will ensure that you’re always certain of your online safety when browsing the web. Minimal CPU and RAM Usage: This software is lightweight and will run quietly in the background, and will not affect your computer efficiency. Premium Support: Support service is readily available for 24 x 7 x 365 days through email and chats to answer your queries.

Technical Details and Manual Removal (Advanced Users)

To eliminate Aro 2012 manually, go to the Add or Remove programs list in the Control Panel and choose the 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 intend to disable or remove. It is also advised to reset your web browser to its default state to fix corrupt settings. To ensure complete removal, find the following registry entries on your computer and remove them or reset the values accordingly. Please keep in mind that only professional users should try to manually edit the registry because removing any single critical system file results in a serious issue or perhaps a PC crash. Additionally, some malicious programs have the capability to defend against its deletion. Completing this task in Safe Mode is advised.
Files: Search & Delete ARO2013_tbt.exe CleanSchedule.exe soref.dll AROSS.dll CheckForV4.dll aro.exe Registry: Search and delete: CURRENT_USER / AROReminder
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How to Fix Error 0x8024a206 in Windows
When you upgrade or update your Windows 10 computer but you suddenly got Error 0x8024a206 while trying to install the updates, it is due to a rouge update that was downloaded or because of some corrupted component in Windows. In case you don’t know, any file downloaded by Windows is verified for its integrity and if the files don’t pass the integrity test, then Error 0x8024a206 will most likely pop up during the Windows update or upgrade.

Option 1 – Reset the Windows Update components to the default

You have to stop a couple of services such as BITS, Cryptographic, MSI Installer, and Windows Update Services. And to do that, you need to flush the contents in the SoftwareDistribution folder. The Software Distribution folder in the Windows operating system is a folder that can be found in the Windows directory and is used to store files temporarily which might be required to install the Windows Update on your PC. Thus, it is required by the Windows Update and maintained by WUAgent. Aside from that, it also contains all the Windows Update History files and once you delete them, you will most likely lose the Update history. As a result, the next time you run the Windows Update, it may result in a longer detection time.
  • Open the WinX Menu.
  • From there, open Command Prompt as admin.
  • Then type in the following command – don’t forget to hit Enter right after typing each one of them.
net stop wuauserv net start cryptSvc net start bits net start msiserver
  • After entering these commands, it will stop the Windows Update Service, Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS), Cryptographic, and the MSI Installer
  • Next, go to the C:/Windows/SoftwareDistribution folder and get rid of all the folders and files thereby tapping the Ctrl + A keys to select them all and then click on Delete. Note that if the files are in use, you won’t be able to delete them.
After resetting the SoftwareDistribution folder, you need to reset the Catroot2 folder to restart the services you just stopped. To do that, follow these steps:
  • Type each one of the following commands.
net start wuauserv net start cryptSvc net start bits net start msiserver
  • After that, exit Command Prompt and restart your computer, and then try to run Windows Update once more.

Option 2 – Re-register DLLs related to Windows Update

DLL files, also known as Dynamic Link Library, are parts of applications that are separated from the core program so that they can be used again as well as independently be updated. The DLL files are loaded into memory and then used. Note that they have to be registered with Windows so they can be loaded. So if they’re not, the main program will fail. And this is the same with the DLL files related to the Windows Update. Thus, you need to register them in order to resolve Error 0x8024a206.
  • In the Cortana search box, type “command prompt”.
  • From the search results that appear, right-click on Command Prompt and select the “Run as administrator” option.
  • After that execute the commands listed below one after the other and don’t forget to hit Enter right after you key in each one of them.
    • regsvr32 JSCRIPT.DLL
    • regsvr32 MSXML3.DLL
    • regsvr32 WUPS2.DLL
    • regsvr32 WUPS.DLL
    • regsvr32 WUAUENG.DLL
    • regsvr32 WUAPI.DLL
    • regsvr32 WUCLTUX.DLL
    • regsvr32 WUWEBV.DLL
Note: You also have the option to run the commands together via a batch file. Simply create a batch file by copying all the commands in a notepad and then save it as “WURegisterDLL.bat”. After that, run the batch file and it will execute the commands all at the same time. Then you have to restart your computer and see if it has fixed the Error 0x8024a206.

Option 3 – Run the System File Checker

The SFC or System File Checker scan could detect and automatically repair damaged system files that could be causing the Error 0x8024a206. 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. To run the SFC command, follow the steps given below.
  • Tap Win + R to launch Run.
  • Type in cmd in the field and tap Enter.
  • After opening Command Prompt, type in sfc /scannow and hit Enter.
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.

Option 4 – Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Running the built-in Windows Update troubleshooter could also help you resolve the Windows Update Error 0x8024a206. To run it, go to Settings and then select Troubleshoot from the options. From there, click on Windows Update and then click the “Run the troubleshooter” button. After that, follow the next on-screen instructions and you should be good to go.
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Fix Error Code 0x80072EE7 in Windows
Installing or updating Google Chrome does not always go smoothly as there are times when it also encounters some errors like the error code 0x80072EE7. This kind of error in Chrome is most likely caused by the Windows Firewall or third-party Firewall (if you’re using one) that blocks the installation or update process. Aside from this known culprit, there are also other factors to consider such as corrupted or incompatible installation files or it could also be caused by some issue with your internet connection. If you face this kind of problem when installing or updating Chrome, you will see the following error message on your screen:
“An error occurred while checking for updates: Unable to connect to the Internet. If you use a firewall, please whitelist GoogleUpdate.exe. (error code 7: 0x80072EE7 — system level).”
Whatever the cause of this error is, you need to use the options prepared below to fix it.

Option 1 – Whitelist the “googleupdate.exe” in Firewall

If the issue is really caused by the Firewall, you need to whitelist the googleupdate.exe program to fix the error. To do that, follow these steps:
  • Tap the Win + E keys to open the File Explorer.
  • Next, copy and paste the following location in the address bar and tap Enter to go there.
Control Panel/All Control Panel Items/Windows Defender Firewall/Allowed apps
  • After that, click on the Change Settings button, and from the given list, look for Google Chrome.
  • Now check both Private and Public connections for it and then click on OK and see if it fixes the error or not.

Option 2 – Disable the proxy server for LAN

If the problem has something to do with your internet connection, then you can try disabling the proxy server for LAN and see if that helps.
  • Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
  • Then type “inetcpl.cpl” in the field and hit Enter to pull up the Internet Properties.
  • After that, go to the Connections tab and select the LAN settings.
  • From there. Uncheck the “Use a Proxy Server” option for your LAN and then make sure that the “Automatically detect settings” option is checked.
  • Now click the OK and the Apply buttons.
  • Restart your PC.
Note: If you are using a third-party proxy service, you have to disable it.

Option 3 – Check your VPN

If you are using a VPN application, then this option should apply to you, if not, skip this option and proceed to the next one. There are times when VPN software causes some issues like this error. If that’s the case, you can try to disable your VPN temporarily and see if the error is resolved or not and if turns out that your VPN is the culprit, you have to uninstall it and install a new one or its latest version. To uninstall it, follow the steps below.
  • Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box
  • Then type “appwiz.cpl” in the field and hit Enter to open the Programs and Features in Control Panel.
  • From there, look for the VPN service you are using, select it and then click on Uninstall to remove it.
  • After that, restart your computer and try to install the latest version of the program again. It should work now. If not, proceed to the next available option below.

Option 4 – Try to run the Chrome Cleanup tool

You might want to run Google Chrome’s built-in Malware Scanner & Cleanup tool as it could also help in getting rid of any unwanted ads, pop-ups, and even malware, as well as unusual startup pages, toolbars, and anything else that might overtake the network and could affect the performance of the browser.

Option 5 – Reset Google Chrome

Before you proceed, make sure that the Chrome browser is not running anywhere in the background via Task Manager. Once you’ve made sure that it’s no longer running, refer to these steps:
  • Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
  • Then type “%USERPROFILE%AppDataLocalGoogleChromeUser Data” in the field and tap Enter to open this location.
  • From there, look for the Default folder and then tap the Shift + Delete button and if a confirmation prompt appears, click on Yes.
  • After deleting the Default folder, open Google Chrome and click on the three vertical dots icon located in the top-right corner to open the menu.
  • Next, click on Settings and scroll down and then click on Advanced to open the Advanced Settings.
  • Then scroll down until you see the “Reset and clean up” section and click the “Restore Settings to their original defaults” option.
  • After that, you will see a confirmation box and from there, click on the Reset settings button to reset your Google Chrome browser.
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