Lock folder with password in Windows 10

What is Error code 8007002c?

Users when upgrading to Windows 10 operating system from Windows 8/8.1 or Windows 7, often encounter error code 8007002c. This error occurs when there’s an attempt made in performing an overall clean boot procedure. During the installation process, it will reach a certain maximum limit, for instance, 75%, and then reverts to its original state. Sometimes, after installation, users will encounter a black screen issue and there is no cursor visible.

Solution

Error Causes

Misconfigured system files that create registry errors within your operating system normally cause error code 8007002c in Windows 10. This registry error happens when there are new programs being installed over old ones without the old programs uninstalled entirely. Another possible cause could be from some malicious software like spyware, adware, and viruses.

Further Information and Manual Repair

Caution: The following steps are complicated. The risk of being in a no-boot situation or data loss might be encountered. It would be best to be supervised by an experienced user, especially in using the command line.

In order to fix Error code 8007002c occurring in Windows 10 upgrade, you can follow this step-by-step manual repair method. Once the repair method is correctly executed, users will most likely quickly resolve issues such as the Error code 8007002c and be able to upgrade to Windows 10 operating system smoothly.

However, in such cases where there are complex instructions and thus need an expert, seek help from a Windows professional. You may also want to consider making use of an automated tool whenever needed.

There are several ways to fix Error code 8007002c, but here are the most effective and efficient methods:

Method One: Force Windows Update

 To be able to download and install the necessary updates, you may use the force Windows Update tool. See below for the steps:

1. Browse to C:\Windows\Software\Distribution\Download. Afterward, delete all the files found in that folder.
2. Press Windows key + X then click on the Command Prompt (Admin). Type exe /updatenow once the Command Prompt window appears then press Enter.
3. Open the Control Panel. Select Windows Update. At this point, Windows 10 should now start downloading.
4. Press again on Windows key + X to open the Command Prompt window. In the Command Prompt, Type or Copy and Paste the following commands one at a time:

NOTE: Don’t forget to hit Enter after every command.

 Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth

Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

5. Input a machine name for your computer. Make sure to use a simple name, having at least 8 characters.

Here’s how you can input a machine name:

• Click on Start and then right-click on Computer. Afterward, select For users with Windows 8 operating system, press on Windows key + X then click on System.
• Click on Change settings under the Computer name, domain, and workgroup settings.

Method Two: Diagnose RAM Issues

Another reason why Error code 8007002c occurs is when there’s a defective and wrongly installed memory chip. Try using the Windows Memory Diagnostic to diagnose if there are RAM Issues.

1. Press on the Windows Key + X then select
2. Type
3. Select Windows Memory Diagnostic, from that window, select Restart now, and check for problems

Method Three: Use Selective Startup

One more possible cause why Error code 8007002c occurs is due to third-party software. To fix this error, you can try booting up your device with Selective Startup -- a boot type where you can load a limited set of startups and services.

1. Open the System Configuration tool. On your Taskbar, type MSCONFIG in the Search Box then hit Enter.
2. Select the General
3. Select Selective startup option then tick on the Load system services
4. Ensure that Load startup items check box is unchecked.
5. Click Apply and

Can’t seem to put up with the long and technical manual repair process? You can still fix this error by downloading and installing a powerful automated tool that will surely get the job done in a jiffy!

In case you didn’t know, the new Windows 10 v1903 has brought tons of new features around Windows 10 Updates. One of these features is the ability to automatically adjust the Active Hours based on your computer activity. This feature is really useful as it tells the operating system when to install the Windows Updates. A lot of users use the Active Hours feature to ensure that the Windows Update won’t force them to restart their PCs to install the update. So if your computer is turned on, it won’t apply the update during the active hours you’ve specified. In addition, the active hours change for many users and they are not that strict. For instance, if you set the active hours between 10 am to 5 pm, Windows Update won’t be forcing you to restart your computer to install the updates at those times. Note that Windows Update allows enabling an option using where it can monitor the active hours in your computer and change it. To configure this setting, here’s what you have to do:

• Frist, go to Settings > Update & security > Windows Update.
• Next, take note of your current active hours and click on the “Change active hours” link.
• Then toggle the option that says, “Automatically adjust active hours for this device based on activity”. This will change the active hours and if you match it with the previous one, it should be different.

As you can see on the image given above, the earlier active hours were between 8:00 to 17:00 and were changed to 11:00 to 19:00. If you have been using this feature for a while you’ll find how useful and handy it is especially when you’re using your computer and don’t want any notifications like the prompts for Windows Updates to bother you while working.

If you suddenly encounter Activation Error codes such as 0xC004E016, 0xC004F210, 0xC004F034, and 0xC004F00F on your Windows 10 computer, then they all point to the same issue – Invalid Product Key or Version mismatch. When you see any of the aforementioned error codes above, it indicates that you are either entering a wrong product key or you are using an incorrect ISO when installing it on your computer. In such cases, you may see either of the following error messages:

“You are running Windows 10 Pro, but you have a valid digital license for Windows 10 Home.” Or: “The specified product key is invalid or is unsupported by this version.”

If you got the error code 0xC004F00F then it means that you’ve entered a product key for the Enterprise edition of Windows to activate Windows 10 Pro or Windows 10 Home. It could be that you have a key from your work and you accidentally use it on your Home PC. If you got the error codes 0xC004E016, 0xC004F210, then it means that you have entered a product key that is meant for a different edition or version of Windows. On the other hand, if you got the error code 0xC004F034 instead, then it means that you have entered an invalid product key or a product key for a different Windows version. Whichever error codes you have, refer to the possible solutions given below to fix the Invalid Product Key or Version mismatch Activation Error in Windows 10.

Option 1 – Try running the Windows 10 Activation Troubleshooter

The first thing you can do to resolve this Activation error is to run the Windows 10 Activation Troubleshooter. To do so, follow these steps:

• Go to Settings and then select Activation.
• After that, click on the Windows Activation and then troubleshoot. This will help you address most of the commonly found activation issues in Windows devices.

Option 2 – Try purchasing a new license

There is an exception offered by Microsoft – if you are connected to a Microsoft account prior to the hardware change, then you can most certainly use the same license key to reactivate Windows 10 again. Microsoft calls this an “Exception path” which should be fixed easily by the Windows Activation Troubleshooter as pointed out earlier. However, if the Windows Activation Troubleshooter isn’t able to resolve the error you can try purchasing a new license. In such rate case, even if you do have a Microsoft account available on your Windows 10 computer, and if Windows was never activated, this solution will not work. And if you haven’t connected your Microsoft account with your Windows 10 computer prior to the major hardware change, then your only option left is to purchase a new license. For you to do that here are some steps you can follow.

• To purchase a new Windows license, the first thing you have to do is click on the Start button > Settings > Update & Security.
• From there, go to Activation and select the “Go to Microsoft Store” option.
• After receiving your new license, you need to go back to Update & Security then go to Activation and select the “Change product key” option.
• Now update your Windows 10 computer using the new key and it should automatically activate your computer.
• Next, you have to create a Microsoft account or connect to your existing local account to your online account.
• Once the system links the key and the account, you need not buy a new license in case something like this happens again.

Note: If you are an IT administrator, you need to keep in mind that there is a limit to the number of times you can reactivate Windows on your computer. Moreover, if you don’t see any option to reactivate the license, and it is a work computer, you need to contact your organization’s tech support.

Option 3 – Try activating Windows 10 via mobile phone

Activating Windows 10 can also be done using your phone. Just note that you have to call Microsoft to do so.

• In the Start Search box, type in “Slui 4” and tap Enter.
• Next, select your country and click on Next.
• Keep the window open and call the toll-free number of the country you’re from.
• Afterward, a confirmation ID should be given by the automated system which you must take a note of.
• Finally, in the box on the window, type in the confirmation ID and click on the Activate button. That should do it.

A couple of Windows 10 users have reported an error on domain-connected systems when they tried accessing their computer systems remotely. This occurs when the network level authentication or NLA is enabled on the computer. If you are one of these users, you better keep reading as this post will guide you on how you can fix this error. To resolve this issue, there are several workarounds you can try. You can either disable this option directly via properties or you can also modify some registry entries or sub-keys and restart the system. When you encounter this problem, an error message pops up that states:

“The remote computer that you are trying to connect to requires network level authentication (NLA), but your windows domain controller cannot be contacted to perform NLA. If you are an administrator on the remote computer, you can disable NLA by using the options on the Remote tab of the System Properties dialog box.”

Or you could also see this error message instead:

“The remote computer requires Network Level Authentication, which your computer does not support. For assistance, contact your system administrator or technical support.”

Before you proceed in troubleshooting the problem using the options provided below, you need to create a backup for your data or system restore point as well as make a copy of any registry entries you are going to modify.

Option 1 – Disable Network Level Authentication via Properties

The NLA is a useful tool that provides your computer with extra security and helps network administrators in controlling who can log into the system with just a click of a single box. However, there are times when it can become a disadvantage and could prevent you from accessing your system remotely. Thus, you need to disable it using Properties.

• Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
• After that, type in “sysdm.cpl” and tap Enter to open System Properties.
• Next, go to the remote tab and uncheck the checkbox for the “Allow connections only from computers running Remote Desktop with Network Level Authentication (recommended)” option.
• Now click the Apply button to save the changes made and exit System Properties and then try logging into the remote computer again and see if the problem is fixed or not.

Option 2 – Disable NLA via Registry Editor

Note that you can only use this option if the first one didn’t work for you. Take note that this option will require you to restart your PC completely which could mean some downtime if your computer is running a production server. So make sure to save all your work.

• Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box and then type in “Regedit” in the field and tap Enter to open the Registry Editor.
• From there, click on File > Connect Network Registry and input the details of the remote computer and then try to connect.
• Navigate to the path below after you’re connected:

HKLM >SYSTEM > CurrentControlSet > Control >Terminal Server > WinStations > RDP-Tcp

• After that, change the values given below to “0”
  • SecurityLayer
  • UserAuthentication
• The navigate to PowerShell and execute this command – restart-computer

Option 3 – Disable NLA via PowerShell

PowerShell allows you to tap into the remote computer and once you’ve targeted the machine, you can execute the commands given below to disable NLA.

• Tap the Win + S to open Search and then type in “PowerShell” in the field. Right-click on the related result and select the “Run as administrator” option.
• After opening PowerShell, execute the command below:

2. Once in the PowerShell, execute the following command:

$TargetMachine = “Target-Machine-Name” (Get-WmiObject -class “Win32_TSGeneralSetting” -Namespace rootcimv2terminalservices -ComputerName $TargetMachine -Filter “TerminalName=’RDP-tcp'”).SetUserAuthenticationRequired(0) Note: In the command given, the “Target-Machine-Name” is the name of the machine you are targeting.

Option 4 – Use the Group Policy Editor to disable NLA

Another option you can use to disable NLA is via the Group Policy Editor. This is ideal for you if you are blanket disabling. Just take note that the Group Policy Editor is a powerful tool and that if you make some mistakes by changing values you have no clue about, you can render your computer useless so make sure that you create a backup for all the values before you proceed.

• Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
• Then type in “gpedit.msc” and tap Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.
• From there, go to this path – Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Session Host > Security
• After that, search for “Require user authentication for remote connections by using Network Level Authentication” and set it to disabled.
• Now check if the error is fixed or not.

CrazyForCrafts is a Browser Extension from Mindspark Interactive. This Toolbar Extension allegedly offers users tons of DIY crafting guides and tricks, however all that it does is point you in the right direction. It links you back to some of the most popular DIY Crafting websites on the internet that you can find at any time by a simple search.

While this may look useful and faster than looking around the internet for good DIY projects, remember that this extension injects itself into your browser, changing your new tab page to Search.MyWay.com and records your browsing habits, can view your internet history, and know whatever you are looking for or viewing online.

While using this extension you will see additional pop-up ads, sponsored content, and injected ads throughout your browsing sessions.

Due to its behavior this extension has been marked for removal by several anti-virus scanners, and it is recommended to remove it from your computer to prevent data leaks.

About Browser Hijackers

Browser hijackers (sometimes called hijackware) are a type of malicious software that alters web browser configuration settings without the computer owner’s knowledge or permission. These hijacks appear to be increasing at an worrying rate around the world, and it can be really nefarious and sometimes dangerous too. They’re designed to disrupt browser functions for many different reasons. These are typically used to force visitors to a specific website, manipulating web-traffic to earn ad revenue. Although it might appear naive, all browser hijackers are damaging and therefore always classified as security threats. In a much worst case, your internet browser could be hijacked to download malware that will do a great deal of damage to your computer or laptop.

How one can know whether the browser is hijacked?

Symptoms that a web browser is hi-jacked include: the browser’s homepage is changed; new bookmarks pointing to pornographic sites have been added to your favorite pages; the essential web browser settings are modified and unwanted or insecure sites are added to the trusted websites listing; you are finding new toolbars you have never found before; you might see numerous pop-up ads on your computer screen; your browser has become unstable or starts running sluggishly; Inability to navigate to certain sites, especially antivirus as well as other computer security software websites.

How browser hijacker infects computers

Browser hijackers may use drive-by downloads or file-sharing websites or perhaps an e-mail attachment to reach a targeted PC. They also come from add-on software, also called browser helper objects (BHO), browser extensions, or toolbars. Also, certain freeware and shareware can put the hijacker in your PC through “bundling”. Examples of well-known browser hijackers are Fireball, CoolWebSearch. GoSave, Ask Toolbar, RocketTab, and Babylon Toolbar. The presence of any browser hijacker on your system might substantially diminish the web browsing experience, track your online activities that result in serious privacy concerns, develop system stability problems and eventually cause your computer to slow down or to an almost unusable condition.

How to remove a browser hijacker

Some hijackers can be easily removed by uninstalling the free software they were included with or by removing any extension you’ve recently added to your browser. But, most hijacking codes are certainly not very easy to get rid of manually, as they go much deeper into your operating system. You should consider performing manual repairs only if you’re a tech-savvy person, as potential risks are associated to tinkering with the system registry and HOSTS file. Browser hijackers could be effectively removed by installing anti-malware software on the affected system. SafeBytes Anti-Malware can counter relentless browser hijackers and provide you with proactive PC protection against all kinds of malware. In addition to anti-virus software, a system optimizer software, like Total System Care, will help you correct Windows registry errors, remove unwanted toolbars, secure online privacy, and stabilize software programs installed on your PC.

Virus Blocking Access To Safebytes Website And Anti-Malware Downloads - What You Should Do?

Malware can cause all kinds of damage once they invade your PC, ranging from stealing your private details to deleting files on your PC. Some malware is meant to interfere with or prevent things that you wish to do on your PC. It may well not allow you to download anything from the net or it will stop you from accessing a few or all internet sites, especially the anti-malware sites. If you’re reading this, odds are you’re stuck with a malware infection which is preventing you to download or install Safebytes Anti-Malware program on your system. Although this type of issue will be difficult to get around, there are a few steps you can take.

Get rid of malware in Safe Mode

The Windows-based PC has a special mode referred to as “Safe Mode” in which only the minimum required applications and services are loaded. In the event the malware is blocking access to the internet and affecting your computer, starting it in Safe Mode enables you to download antivirus and run a scan while limiting potential damage. To enter into Safe Mode or Safe Mode with Networking, press the F8 key while the computer is booting up or run MSCONFIG and locate the “Safe Boot” options under the “Boot” tab. As soon as you restart the PC into Safe Mode with Networking, you may download, install, as well as update anti-malware software from there. Following installation, run the malware scanner to eliminate standard infections.

Obtain the antivirus software using an alternate web browser

Malicious code could exploit vulnerabilities on a particular browser and block access to all anti-virus software websites. If you appear to have a virus attached to Internet Explorer, then switch over to a different browser with built-in safety features, such as Firefox or Chrome, to download your favorite anti-malware program – Safebytes.

Make a bootable USB anti-virus drive

Here’s yet another solution which is using a portable USB anti-malware software package that can check your computer for malicious software without needing installation. To run anti-malware using a USB drive, follow these simple steps: 1) Download the anti-malware on a virus-free PC. 2) Plug the Flash drive into the uninfected computer. 3) Double click on the exe file to run the installation wizard. 4) Choose the drive letter of the pen drive as the place when the wizard asks you where you would like to install the antivirus. Follow activation instructions. 5) Remove the pen drive. You can now utilize this portable anti-malware on the affected computer system. 6) Run the Safebytes Anti-malware directly from the pen drive by double-clicking the icon. 7) Click “Scan Now” to run a complete scan on the infected computer for malware.

Features of SafeBytes Anti-Malware

If you are planning to buy anti-malware for your computer system, there are lots of brands and packages for you to consider. A few of them are great, some are ok types, and some will destroy your computer themselves! You have to be careful not to select the wrong application, especially if you buy a paid software. Amongst few good applications, SafeBytes Anti-Malware is the highly recommended tool for security-conscious people. SafeBytes antimalware is a very effective and easy to use protection tool which is designed for end-users of all levels of computer literacy. With its cutting edge technology, this software will help you get rid of multiples types of malware which includes viruses, worms, PUPs, trojans, adware, ransomware and browser hijackers.

SafeBytes anti-malware takes PC protection to a whole new level with its enhanced features. A few of them are given as below:

Real-time Threat Response: SafeBytes offers complete and real-time security for your personal machine. This utility will constantly keep track of your PC for any suspicious activity and updates itself regularly to keep abreast of the latest threats. World-class AntiMalware Protection: Using its advanced and sophisticated algorithm, this malware elimination tool can identify and get rid of the malware threats hiding in your computer effectively. Web protection: SafeBytes checks the hyperlinks present on a web page for possible threats and alerts you if the website is safe to view or not, through its unique safety rating system. Lightweight: SafeBytes is lightweight software. It use up a very small amount of processing power as it works in the background so you’re free to use your Windows-based PC the way you would like. 24/7 Support: You can get totally free 24/7 technical assistance from their computer experts on any product queries or computer security issues. Overall, SafeBytes Anti-Malware is a solid program since it has plenty of features and could detect and remove any potential threats. Now you may realize that this tool does more than just scan and delete threats from your PC. For the best protection and the best value for money, you can’t get better than SafeBytes Anti-Malware.

Technical Details and Manual Removal (Advanced Users)

To get rid of CrazyForCrafts manually, navigate to the Add/Remove programs list in the Control Panel and choose the offending program you want to get rid of. For web browser plug-ins, go to your web browser’s Addon/Extension manager and select the plug-in you want to remove or disable. It is also suggested to reset your browser to its default condition to fix corrupt settings. If you choose to manually delete the system files and registry entries, use the following checklist to make sure you know exactly what files to remove before undertaking any actions. Please keep in mind that this is for skilled users only and might be challenging, with incorrect file removal leading to additional system errors. Additionally, certain malicious programs have the capability to defend against its deletion. Completing this task in Safe Mode is advised.

intel's first gaming card that will hit the market soon has been shown in its innovation event, the Intel Arc A770. In its core ticks ACM-G10, coming with 32 Xe-cores and all the way up to 16GB of GDDR6 memory (the basic entry-level version will have 8GB of GDDR6). The card will support ray tracing and supersampling with Intel's XeSS.

This is Intel's first gaming desktop GPU and after testing with some YouTube channels it turned out that the card itself sits somewhere between nVIDIA RTX 3060 Ti and an RTX 3070 so it will still be low in performance compared with the new RTX 4090 or AMD's new RDNA3 upcoming lineup. But as stated this is Intel's first gaming graphics card and having this kind of performance is no small feat for the first-time product.

One thing that is really great tho and that is going for Arc A770 GPU is its price! The Limited Edition card will cost $329 which is at this moment most cheapest GPU currently on the market in that performance range. nVIDIA is between $500 and $700 for comparison and if Intel can hold on to its performance with almost half the price card could be a great hit among gamers. GPU itself will launch on October 12th.

Windows 11 has been officially presented during Microsoft’s virtual event on June 24^th. Since presentation internet has been pretty live and busy with a discussion about it, some discussions are positive, some not so much but that is expected and it happens always when a new product is presented. One of information that we have about Windows 11 is tied to the home edition of this OS, Windows 11 home edition will require an internet connection at setup, and a Microsoft account in order to be installed and used. Previous versions of Windows could be installed and used with local accounts but it seems Microsoft has abandoned that idea for its new OS. OS will be delivered mostly as updates or via internet download so internet and online requirement make sense but why it cannot use the local account and must have a Microsoft one is beyond me.

The System32 folder contains vital configuration and information that are essential to the operating system. It is located inside the “Windows” folder and it consists of important DLL files as well as executable files. You probably have noticed some errors that have the “System32” word in them but that does not necessarily mean that the System32 folder is the one that triggers them as these kinds of errors have only occurred when some important files are corrupted or missing. Some users recently reported that each time they start their computers, the System32 folder will automatically open up in the File Explorer. If you encounter the same problem, read on as this post will guide you on what to do to fix it. This kind of issue is most likely caused by service or application interference – it is possible that there is a third-party application installed in your computer or a Windows service that triggers the System32 to pop up during startup. It is also possible that this is a result of system modification. Thus, you need to identify the third-party program or restore your computer to its previous state.

Option 1 – Put your computer in a Clean Boot State

As pointed out, it is possible that some third-party program or service is the one that’s behind the problem. To isolate this possibility and to identify the culprit, you have to put your computer into a Clean Boot State. To do so, follow the steps below.

• Log onto your PC as an administrator.
• Type in MSConfig in the Start Search to open the System Configuration utility.
• From there, go to the General tab and click “Selective startup”.
• Clear the “Load Startup items” check box and make sure that the “Load System Services” and “Use Original boot configuration” options are checked.
• Next, click the Services tab and select the “Hide All Microsoft Services” check box.
• Click Disable all.
• Click on Apply/OK and restart your PC. (This will put your PC into a Clean Boot State. And configure Windows to use the usual startup, just simply undo the changes.)

After putting your PC in a Clean Boot State, try creating a system restore point and see if the problem still occurs. Clean Boot troubleshooting is designed to help you isolate the problem. For you to execute a clean boot troubleshooting, you must do a couple of actions (the steps given above) and then restart your PC after every action. You might have to disable one third-party app after the other to really isolate the issue. And once you’ve narrowed down the problem, you can either disable the third-party app that’s causing the problem or remove it. Note that you must switch your PC back into the Normal Startup mode after you’re done troubleshooting the problem. Here’s how you can do it:

• From the “Start” menu, go to System Configuration.
• After that, switch to the General tab and click the option for “Normal Startup”.
• Next, go to the Services tab and clear the checkbox for “Hide all Microsoft services”.
• Then find and click “Enable all” and if prompted, you have to confirm.
• Afterward, go to the Task Manager and enable all the Startup programs and confirm the action.
• Restart your PC when prompted.

Option 2 – Perform System Restore

• First, press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
• After that, type in “sysdm.cpl” in the field and tap Enter.
• Next, go to the System Protection tab then click the System Restore button. This will open a new window where you have to select your preferred System Restore point.
• After that, follow the on-screen instructions to finish the process and then restart your computer and check if the problem is fixed or not.

Option 3 – Run System File Checker scan

You might also try running the System File Checker or SFC scan to fix the issue. System File Checker is a command utility built into your computer that helps restore corrupted files and missing files. Refer to the following steps to run it:

• Hit the Win + R keys to launch Run.
• Type in cmd in the field and tap Enter.
• After opening Command Prompt, type in sfc /scannow

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

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

 Restart your computer and see if the System32 folder still pops up at startup or not.

PC Optimizer Pro is a PC optimizer utility developed by Xportsoft Technologies. It is classified as a potentially unwanted program, due to its aggressive scan and registration reminders, and that it is often distributed bundled with other programs in a manner that leads many users to not know how it got on their computer. While not inherently malicious, PC Optimizer Pro adds numerous registry keys, startup entries and while running consumes a relatively high amount of system resources, especially during its scans. The software installs from a .exe file that is around 5.20 MB or 5.453.240 Bytes (depending on the version). As of the publication of these videos, the current version of PC Optimizer Pro was detected as malicious or potentially unwanted by at least 21 AntiViruses.

About Potentially Unwanted Applications

If you have ever installed freeware or shareware, chances are high that your computer can 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 other hidden goals. These kinds of programs are almost always bundled up with free software which you download from the net or are also bundled within the custom installers on many download sites. PUPs did not really constitute pure “malware” in the strict sense of the term. Just like malicious software, PUPs cause problems when downloaded and installed on your PC, but what makes a PUP different is that you give consent to download it – although the truth is vastly different – the software installation package actually tricks you into accepting the installation. Irrespective of whether it is regarded as malware or not, PUPs are nearly always harmful to the user as they might bring on adware, spyware, keystroke logging, and also other bad crapware features on your computer.

What do PUPs do on your computer, exactly?

Potentially Unwanted Programs come in many forms and varieties, but in most instances, these are adware programs that show annoying pop-up adverts and advertisements on websites you check out. The PUPs also get installed into your computer in the form of web browser add-ons and toolbars. Not only they needlessly take up space on your computer screen, but toolbars may also manipulate search engine results, watch your web browsing activities, decrease your web browser’s efficiency, and decelerate your internet connection to a crawl. Potentially Unwanted Programs at times act quite similarly to viruses or spyware. Some PUPs include keyloggers, dialers, along with other software to gather your private details that may result in identity theft. These are programs that don’t do anything good for you; in addition to taking over space on your hard drive, they also slow down your computer, often modify settings without your approval, the list of bothersome features goes on.

Ways to avoid PUPs

• Always study the EULA and privacy statement. Don’t agree until you know precisely what you are acknowledging. • Choose the “custom” install whenever installing a software program. In particular, look closely at those small boxes that have been checked as default, where you may ‘agree’ to receive promotions or install software bundlers. • Use good antivirus software, like Safebytes Anti-Malware that offers real-time protection against PUPs. • Avoid adding a freeware program you do not use. Turn off or remove toolbars and web browser extensions you don’t really need. • Always download software from reliable sources like official sites as opposed to untrustworthy sharing space. Avoid file-hosting sites where/when possible.

What you can do if Malware Prevents You From Downloading Or Installing Antivirus?

Practically all malware is bad, but certain types of malware do much more damage to your computer than others. Certain malware goes to great lengths to stop you from downloading or installing anything on your personal computer, particularly antivirus applications. If you are reading this right now, you have probably recognized that a malware infection is the real cause of your blocked web connectivity. So what to do if you need to install an antivirus program like Safebytes? There are a few steps you can take to circumvent this problem.

Install in Safe Mode

The Windows OS has a special mode known as “Safe Mode” in which just the bare minimum required programs and services are loaded. In the event the malware is blocking the internet connection and affecting the computer, running it in Safe Mode will let you download antivirus and run a diagnostic scan while limiting possible damage. To start the computer into Safe Mode, press the “F8” key on your keyboard right before the Windows boot screen comes up; Or right after normal Windows boot up, run MSConfig, look over “Safe Boot” under Boot tab, and click Apply. After you reboot into Safe Mode with Networking, you can download, install, and update anti-malware software from there. Right after installation, run the malware scanner to remove standard infections.

Switch to an alternate browser

Some malware may target vulnerabilities of a specific browser that block the downloading process. If you seem to have malware attached to Internet Explorer, then switch over to an alternate web browser with built-in safety features, such as Firefox or Chrome, to download your favorite antivirus program – Safebytes.

Install and run anti-virus from the USB drive

Another solution is to create a portable anti-malware program on your USB stick. Adopt these measures to employ a thumb drive to clean your infected computer system. 1) Download Safebytes Anti-Malware or MS Windows Defender Offline onto a clean PC. 2) Plug the Thumb drive into the clean computer. 3) Run the setup program by double-clicking the executable file of the downloaded software, with a .exe file format. 4) Choose the flash drive as the location for saving the file. Do as instructed on the screen to complete the installation process. 5) Now, plug the pen drive into the corrupted computer. 6) Double-click the anti-malware software EXE file on the USB flash drive. 7) Press the “Scan” button to run a full system scan and remove viruses automatically.

SafeBytes Anti-Malware: Lightweight Malware Protection for Windows PC

These days, an anti-malware tool can protect your computer from different types of online threats. But how to choose the best one amongst numerous malware protection application that’s available out there? You may be aware, there are numerous anti-malware companies and tools for you to consider. A few are well worth your money, but many aren’t. You have to be very careful not to choose the wrong application, especially if you buy a paid application. In terms of commercial anti-malware application options, many people select well-known brands, such as SafeBytes, and are quite happy with it. SafeBytes anti-malware is a powerful, highly effective protection tool created to help end-users of all levels of IT literacy in detecting and eliminating malicious threats from their computer. Using its cutting-edge technology, this software can assist you to eliminate several types of malware such as computer viruses, trojans, PUPs, worms, ransomware, adware, and browser hijackers. SafeBytes has excellent features when compared to other anti-malware programs. Let’s have a look at a few of them below: Robust, Anti-malware Protection: Safebytes is made on the best virus engine within the industry. These engines will find and get rid of threats even during the initial phases of a malware outbreak. Active Protection: Malware programs aiming to enter the system are discovered and stopped as and when detected by the SafeBytes active protection shields. It’ll check your PC for suspicious activity at all times and safeguards your personal computer from unauthorized access. High-Speed Malware Scanning Engine: SafeBytes’s high-speed malware scanning engine minimizes scan times and extends the life of the battery. Simultaneously, it will effectively detect and eliminate infected computer files or any online threat. Website Filtering: SafeBytes checks the hyperlinks present on a webpage for possible threats and informs you whether the site is safe to explore or not, through its unique safety rating system. Lowest CPU/Memory Usage: SafeBytes is a lightweight and user-friendly antivirus and antimalware solution. Since it utilizes negligible computer resources, this tool leaves the computer’s power exactly where it belongs to: with you. Premium Support: You may get high levels of support round the clock if you’re using their paid software.

Technical Details and Manual Removal (Advanced Users)

If you wish to manually remove PCOptimizerPro without the use of an automated tool, it may be possible to do so by removing the program from the Windows Add/Remove Programs menu, or in cases of browser extensions, going to the browsers AddOn/Extension manager and removing it. You will likely also want to reset your browser. To ensure the complete removal, manually check your hard drive and registry for all of the following and remove or reset the values accordingly. Please note that this is for advanced users only and may be difficult, with incorrect file removal causing additional PC errors. In addition, some malware is capable of replicating or preventing deletion. Doing this in Safe Mode is advised.

The following files, folders, and registry entries are created or modified by PCOptimizerPro

Computer crashes are one of the most annoying things that can happen to users. It often loses your data and work, you must spend extra time if you were in the middle of something and can even break Windows itself. Before we move to the article I just want to say that technically there are no random crashes, there is always a reason why the system hangs up, why you received blue screen, annoying restarts out of nowhere and many more PC crashes. In this article, we will explore many possible reasons why something may occur and offer you straight forward solution on how to escape the situation and prevent it from happening again. Without further delay, let's begin:

1. Check switch connectors and power outlets

   Yes, sometimes the most basic approach provides the best results, check to see if your power outlet is stable and providing you with constant voltage, if not, maybe you want to invest in a UPS system so you do not face random shutdowns and restarts during work, also while you are at it, check to see if that reset and power switch are connected properly and that they are not dirty or loose.

2. Clean your PC and check connectors

   Dirt can cause many issues with computers, from overheating to shutdowns to blue screens and memory dumps, check to see if your computer is clean enough and that all connectors are connected tight into their respective sockets.

3. Check the temperature of your CPU

   CPU overheating can cause so-called random freezes and blue screens, the computer might shut down or restart also without any visible reason. Check to see if your fan on the CPU is working properly and change the thermal paste if needed.

4. Check the health of your hard drive

   If your hard drive is beginning to go down the path of dying out, many issues can come from this condition. There are many tools on the internet and in Windows itself to check if your hard drive is working properly.

5. Run antivirus and firewall

   Random lock-ups or similar issues can also occur if by any chance you have some malware on your system, run protection software, and keep it updated to make sure the issue does not come from the computer being infected with malicious applications.

6. Keep system clean

   Have a habit to clean regularly system files and registries, keep removing unnecessary files from your computer and regularly update your Windows and applications along with drivers.

7. Run memory test

   Bad RAM bank can cause many issues during the work, check it out to be sure the problem is not RAM itself.

8. Do not run applications that are too demanding for your system

   Some applications require stronger hardware, and some require the latest hardware, if your computer is a little outdated, running a demanding application can cause issues like freezing, restarts, etc.

9. Remove applications you do not use

   This does not seem like anything important but if you are not using a specific application just remove it from the system, why? Sometimes an application has some ties to certain services and if it is outdated can cause issues for newer ones.

10. Stop installing everything you find on the internet

    Yes, that extension for chrome looks cool, yes, that fancy new player seems sick but if it is from an unverified source and from the unknown publisher without any reviews maybe you are better off with it. You can never tell what you might be placing into your system from the internet.

And that's it, 10 reasons and solutions on what to do on random computer freezes, crashes, etc.