When you have to connect to a drive that’s on a different computer or on external storage, that’s where the mapped network drives come in. Mapped network drives make accessing files a lot easier. However, there are times when it won’t work for some reason.
Windows will notify you about the unavailability of mapped network drives in several ways. For one, Windows might display a red X on the network drives or it could be that its status will be unavailable when you try to use it from the Command Prompt or via a notification.
It is recommended that you run a few scripts when you log in to your PC as it may so happen that the network drive takes more than usual to connect. Before you start troubleshooting the problem using the given options below, keep in mind that some workouts might only work under certain scenarios. You might need some network access at logon or you might need access to the Group Policy settings. So you need to choose what you prefer more.
You can try the given workarounds below if the mapped network drives are not showing or connecting or working on your Windows 10 computer. These workarounds use scripts to make sure that you are connected to them as soon as you start to use your PC.
As mentioned, before you can troubleshoot, you need to create scripts first. There are two scripts here namely MapDrives.ps1 which is executed by the second script named MapDrives.cmd and is done at a regular and non-elevated Command Prompt. Follow the steps below to get started.
You have to create a script file named “MapDrives.cmd” first and then save it on a place where the files are safe. To do that, open a text editor like Notepad and then copy and paste the following script:
After that, save the file and name it “MapDrives.cmd”.
Next, create a script file named “MapDrives.ps1” and then copy and paste the following content. Just make sure to save both scripts in the same folder.
Write-Host "There was an error mapping $MappedDrive.RemotePath to $MappedDrive.LocalPath"
}
}
$i = $i - 1
if($error.Count -eq 0 -Or $i -eq 0) {break}
Start-Sleep -Seconds 30
}
Note: Now that you’ve created the script files, it’s time for you to proceed to the options given below.
Option 1 – Try creating a startup item
Note that this option only works on devices that have network access at login. So if it’s not there, the script will fail to reconnect the network drivers automatically. To create a startup item, here’s what you have to do:
Open the Startup folder located at %ProgramData%MicrosoftWindowsStart MenuProgramsStartUp.
From there, copy and paste the MapDrives.cmd.
After that, open the Scripts folder located at %SystemDrive%Scripts copy-paste MapDrives.ps1 and then copy and paste MapDrives.ps1 in there.
Note: After you complete the steps above, a log file named “StartupLog.txt” will be created in the %TEMP% folder. Now all that’s left for you to do is to log out of your computer and then log back in. This will ensure that the mapped drives are open.
Option 2 – Create a scheduled task
It is possible to create a scheduled task that runs as soon as you log in to your computer. To create a scheduled task, follow the steps below.
You have to copy the MapDrives.ps1 script file to the scripts folder of Windows located at %SystemDrive%Scripts.
After that, open the Task Scheduler and select Action > Create Task.
Next, type a name and description of the task in the General tab.
Then click on the Change User or Group button and select a local user group and click OK.
Now check the box labeled “Run with highest privileges” and switch to the Triggers tab.
From there, create a new trigger with the “At Logon” option in the Begin the task drop-down menu and then click OK.
After that, switch to the Actions tab and create a new action then choose to Start a program.
Next, type “Powershell.exe” in the Program/Script field, and in the Add arguments (optional) field, type the following:
And in the Start in the (optional) field, type “%SystemDrive%Scripts” as the location of the script file.
Now under the Conditions tab, select the “Start only if the following network connection is available” option and then select Any connection and click OK.
Restart your computer or log off from your account and then log back in so that the task will be executed.
Option 3 – Use the Group Policy settings
You need this option if the mapped network drives are defined via Group Policy settings. You have to update the action of the drive maps to Replace. As a result, it will delete the existing mapped drive and create the mapping on each logon again. However, any settings on the mapped drive that are changed from the Group Policy settings will be gone on each logon. So if the changes don’t work, you need to run the gpupdate command together with the /force parameter in order to refresh the Group Policy setting quickly.
If you have multiple keyboards, things can get quite tricky. There are times when the keyboard language changes on its own since the keyboard changes while you are typing. The thing is, the keyboard changes because sometimes we accidentally tap shortcuts like Win key + Space key or Alt + Shift or Ctrl + Shift which changes the keyboard pairs or language. Thus, if your keyboard language changes on its own, there are two ways to resolve it. First, you have to make sure that Windows 10 does not add keyboards without your permission. Second, you have to make sure that the shortcut keys don’t change the keyboard language. This second option is what we’re going to discuss in this post.
You need to first set a different input method for each app window. To do that, you have to disable the change in layout. Refer to these steps:
Go to Settings > Language and input.
Next, type “switching input methods” to open the Advanced keyboard settings with this option inside.
After that, select the checkbox labeled as “Let me set a different input method for each app window” and then click the Save button.
Restart your computer.
Now that you’ve disabled the change in layout, you now have to find the keyboard settings. Just go to Settings > Devices > Typing > Advanced Keyboard settings. From there, you have the option to select which keyboard is going to be used for any app. When you change the keyboard every time you use an app, usually, Windows remember it so that you won’t have to set it up all over again. In addition, the Advanced keyboard settings page also allows you to override the default input method which could be different from the first one in your language list. Aside from that, there is also a Language bar option that comes in handy as you can quickly switch between keyboards. And if you removed it, you have the option to restore the language bar back as well.
Now all that’s left for you to do is to change the Language Settings under the Administrative tab. A user from a forum that came up with this solution, reported that the issue occurred when he started typing in some program with non-Unicode characters which caused Windows to use the default system local language to interpret these characters even though the language is unavailable in the Language bar. To change the Language Settings under the Administrative tab, follow these steps:
Go to Settings > Time and Language > Language > Administrative language settings.
After that, click on Copy Settings under the Administrative tab.
Now make sure that all the Display language, Input language, and Format are English (United States) or any language you prefer.
Then mark the two checkboxes in “Copy your current settings to Welcome screen and system accounts & New user accounts”.
After that, click OK and then exit.
Note: You also have the option to disable those shortcut combinations which can change your keyboard settings accidentally.
When it comes to computer peripherals first thing that comes to people's minds is probably Mouse and Keyboard. Also when discussing peripherals brands, Razer is not a stranger and over the years it has built its name and cult following.
Razer’s mechanical keyboards have been always in the upper field of quality and trust from users and Huntsman is no different.
Tech specifics of Huntsman keyboard
Mechanical optical switches
Razer has introduced their new optical technology switch with this keyboard. These switches are faster and more accurate than typical mechanical switches and if tests are to be believed this is the fastest keyboard currently on the market.
Multi-functional digital dial
A multi-function digital dial with three tactile media keys gives you instant access to everything from brightness to volume in seconds. All programmable and customizable through Synapse 3, so you can set your preferred configurations right at your fingertips.
10-key rollover
Anti-ghosting technology that enables 10-key simultaneous presses at the same time
4-side underglow with Razer chroma
Go crazy and personalize lighting effects any way you want with a full 4-side underglow and 38 customization zones. Powered by Razer Chroma
Feel and noise
In the department of noise, well it is the mechanical keyboard so naturally, it will be louder than membrane ones but in terms of comparing it to other mechanical keyboards it is within the same noise range, maybe just a tiny bit silenced.
The keyboard comes with 2 different types of switches, purple clicky ones that are louder and have that *click* sound for sound feedback, and red ones, that are not equipped with clicky sound but are linear providing slightly faster performance.
If you choose the Huntsman elite model of the keyboard it will come with a nice hand resting mat that is very comfortable and feels right. Using a keyboard feels like using a Razer keyboard, it is responsive and gives that superior mechanical feeling.
Conclusion
Razer Huntsman mechanical keyboard is not the cheapest nor the best on the market but it is the fastest one out. It is in the top tier of keyboards and worth the investment.
Nvidia GeForce RTX is a high-end professional visual computing platform created by Nvidia, primarily used for designing complex large-scale models in architecture and product design, scientific visualization, energy exploration, and film and video production. Nvidia RTX enables real-time ray tracing.
Historically, ray tracing had been reserved for non-real-time applications (like CGI in visual effects for movies and in photorealistic renderings), with video games having to rely on direct lighting and precalculated indirect contribution for their rendering.
RTX facilitates a new development in computer graphics of generating interactive images that react to lighting, shadows, and reflections. RTX runs on Nvidia Volta-, Turing- and Ampere-based GPUs, specifically utilizing the Tensor cores (and new RT cores on Turing and successors) on the architectures for ray-tracing acceleration.
Advantage in games
With incredible lighting and shadows, reflection, better smoke, and water effects, and more, RTX has managed to place awesome real-time effects on your desktop all that’s to Nvidia technology behind it.
Of course, in order to harvest this kind of technology and features game itself needs to support and have RTX in it, you can not turn RTX in just any game, the game itself must have technology build in it.
Therefore we are bringing you the list of all RTX games you can find currently on the market so you can enjoy at the moment best graphics a PC can offer
Error 12031 indicates that the connection with the server has been reset or is not properly connected.
In other words, it signifies that the File Transfer Protocol which is the standard network protocol that is used to transfer files from one host to another over the internet is either reset or not working properly.
For example, if you are using a wireless adapter, then you may experience this error code when the adapter loses its association with the access point.
The error code is often displayed in the following format:
"ERROR_INTERNET_CONNECTION_RESET"
"Cannot Connect to the FTP Server"
Solution
Error Causes
Though the error 12031 is largely caused by poor internet connection and failure to obtain files from the FTP server, however, sometimes the error may be caused by invalid registry entries and outdated drivers. Furthermore, it may also be a Firewall issue.
Further Information and Manual Repair
To resolve this issue on your system, we have listed down the best and easy DIY solutions. These solutions are simple to perform and do not require any kind of technical expertise or knowledge. Just follow the steps and you will be able to resolve it in a couple of minutes.
Solution 1: Disable Firewall
If you are unable to connect to the server and you encounter the error code 12031 on your system, then to resolve this issue, disable the Firewall on your PC.
Solution 2: Reset IE (Internet Explorer) Settings
This error is typically experienced by IE7 users. If you can’t access some websites in Internet Explorer and you come across a 12031 error code, then try resetting your IE settings.
To do this, open Internet Explorer, click on tools, and then click on Internet Options. Now go to the advanced tab and select Use Passive FTP. After checking the box, exit and then try accessing those sites that were not accessible before.
If after modifying IE settings you are able to access the sites without any error message display, then this means the error is resolved. Nonetheless, if the error still persists, then the error could be generated due to invalid registry entries.
Solution3: Download and Run Restoro
To remove invalid registry entries from your system and resolve the 12031 error immediately, it is advisable to download and run Restoro. This is a new, cutting-edge, and multi-functional PC repair tool integrated with multiple utilities like a powerful registry cleaner, an antivirus, and a system optimizer.
The registry cleaning utility scans your PC for all registry errors. It wipes out unnecessary files, bad and invalid registry entries, repairs damaged files, and restores the registry thereby resolving the 12031 error on your PC.
This error tool has a user-friendly interface and simple navigations. It is easy to use and compatible with all Windows versions.
In addition to this, you can also use it to scan for malicious software and remove malware. It also functions as a system optimizer and boosts your computer’s speed dramatically.
Click here to download Restoro on your PC and resolve error 12031 right away!
As you know, Windows operating system comes with tons of features. Some of which are not intended to be used by normal customers or users directly which means that only a small percentage of the huge user base of the operating system leverages the use of such features. However, they’ve added some major value to the feature list of the operating system. You can find these features under the “Turn Windows Features on and off” option. This indicates that if you want to, you can just type in “Turn Windows Features on and off” in the search box and then enable any feature that you want to enable. Aside from that, there are other ways you can disable or enable the optional Windows Features in your Windows 10 computer.
Option 1 – via Control Panel
Open Control Panel and select Uninstall a Program.
After that, select the “Turn Windows features On or Off” option on the left side.
Option 2 – via Command Prompt
Tap the Win + X combination on your keyboard or right-click on the Start button and then click on Command Prompt (Admin). Alternatively, you can also type “cmd” in the Cortana search box and right-click on the Command Prompt icon, and select the “Run as administrator” option.
If a User Account Control or UAC prompt appears, click on Yes.
Next, type in the following command to see the list of the available features.
DISM /online /get-features /format:table | more
Now all you have to do is copy the name of the feature that you want to enable and for you to do that, you need to execute the following command:
DISM /online /enable-feature /featurename:[Enter the name of the feature here] –All
Note: Now if you want to disable a feature that’s already enabled in your computer, refer to these sub-steps:
First, you need to check what features are enabled, and for you to find out, enter this command: DISM /online /get-features /format:table | find “Enabled" | more
And if you want to check the detailed information about a particular feature, you can enter this command: DISM /online /get-featureinfo/featurename:[Enter the name of the feature here]
Option 3 – via Windows Powershell
As you know, the Windows Powershell is a very important tool in Windows 10, and a powerful one at that since you can do a lot of things using this command line. So while you use this tool you need to populate the list of available features first and then you have to download the feature your desired feature.
Search for PowerShell in the Cortana search box and then run it with administrator privileges.
Next, type in the following command to populate the list of available features:
Get-WindowsOptionalFeature –Online
After that, enter the following command to install any feature you want to enable from the list of available features:
You also have the option to fetch the latest features from an updated offline source. The source could be an ISO any other type of image or just a folder. So you need to decide if you want to use Windows Powershell or Command Prompt.
If you want to use Command Prompt, just enter this command: exe /online /enable-feature /featurename:< /All /Source:<Enter the path of the feature here>
If you want to use Windows Powershell, use this command: Install-WindowsFeature –Source “<Enter the path of the feature here>”
Note: If you want to get the latest features, you need to get the latest version of the image of the operating system that you are trying to install the feature from.
Error Code 0x80240016 is an error that appears when the Windows Update tool is unable to complete its operation. While it most commonly occurs in Windows 10, versions of this error are also present in past Windows systems, as well. The steps to resolve the error are the same for each of these systems.
Common symptoms include:
Inability to complete the Windows Update process
Sluggishness or freezing
Crashing of your programs
The message that states “IMAP_LOGINFAILURE”
There are a number of different issues that can cause Error Code 0x80240016, so it is important to follow the steps below to address each of them in turn. While basic users can implement several of the methods, some of the methods may require advanced skills or knowledge.
If needed, always get in touch with a qualified Windows repair professional to assist you in the process of error resolution.
Solution
Error Causes
Error Code 0x80240016 happens when the system believes that another installation is already occurring on your device while the Windows Update tool is attempting to run the installation of its own updates. While there may not always be an actual installation going on that prohibits Windows Update from running, several programs can leave traces of background activity that prevent Windows from proceeding as necessary.
Malicious software can also cause your system to believe that files are in use, so several of the methods to fix the error can address this particular set of issues.
Further Information and Manual Repair
There are a number of different background issues that can cause Error Code 0x80240016 to appear on your machine. Follow the steps below to address each aspect of the error code, making sure to restart your computer after each attempt. If you have difficulty in completing these steps, contact a qualified technician to assist you.
Here are the top methods to resolve Error Code 0x80240016:
Method One: Use the Troubleshooting Tool in Windows Update
The first step to addressing Error Code 0x80240016 is to open up the Windows Update tool and click on the option to run the Troubleshooting Wizard. This can identify many of the issues associated with the error. If this tool makes any changes, make sure to restart your computer after it finishes.
Method Two: Run the Registry Repair Tool
The registry repair tool can be a great resource for Error Code 0x80240016. Use it to run a scan on all of your registry entries and to repair any that may be extraneous, faulty, or missing. This step may take some time, so be prepared to wait a while for it to finish. Always restart your computer after running the registry repair tool so that any necessary changes can fully take effect and be recognized by your device.
Method Three: Scan Your Computer for Malicious Software
Use the Microsoft Security Essentials tool to perform a scan of your computer to see if any malicious software has changed or corrupted your system files. Once all the files had been scanned and problems have been addressed, you can restart your computer to see if the error has been successfully resolved. You can also download a powerful automated tool to rectify Windows 10 error code 0x80240016.
Method Four: Update Your Drivers and Perform Updates for Your Software and Operating System
Another method that can help to address Error Code 0x80240016 is to open up your driver settings from the control panel and scan to see if any updates are needed. If there are updates waiting to be installed, go ahead and perform those updates first, then restart your computer.
Next, check your Windows Update tool to see if there are any program or system updates that need to be performed. Allowing updates to stack up can cause a number of errors on your system, so it is important to keep your updates in check. Restart your computer after you finish this process.
Method Five: Backup Your Files, Then Reinstall Your Operating System Version
If none of the above methods have completely fixed the problem, you may need to reinstall your operating system. Before doing so, make sure that you have a backup copy of any important programs and files so that you don’t lose anything during the fresh installation.
Code 17 is a typical Spotify error code. Spotify is a music streaming service. Through this software, PC users can browse songs and search by artist, album, and playlist.
Simply put, it is an audio player available for BlackBerry, iOS, and Microsoft Windows desktop.
You may experience error code 17 if the process fails when downloading Spotify from the internet. The error message is displayed in any one of the following formats:
Error 17: Spotify has encountered a problem and needs to close. We are sorry for the inconvenience. Spotify could not be started (Error code 17)
Some of the symptoms of this error code are program crash, slow Windows performance, and periodic system freeze.
Solution
Error Causes
Error 17 may be triggered by several reasons such as:
Viral infection
Incomplete installation of Spotify software
Corrupt download
Registry corruption
Windows Installer service terminated
To use the audio player Spotify successfully on your PC, it is advisable to fix error 17 right away on your system. Delay may cause inconvenience and limit your access to your desired program.
Further Information and Manual Repair
To repair this error code on your PC, you don’t have to hire a professional or be a technical whiz yourself. The good news is that this error is quite easy to fix.
You don’t need to be technically sound to resolve it. Here are some proven methods for you to fix error code 17 on your system.
So let’s get started:
Method 1 - Make sure that the Windows Installer is running
Sometimes Spotify error 17 may occur if the Windows Installer service is terminated. Therefore before you download, make sure the Windows Installer is running. This is a good way to ensure the error code 17 messages don’t pop up on your PC again.
For this here’s what you need to do, first quit all programs. Now go to the start menu and in the search box type RUN, and press enter. In the Open Box, type msiexec /unregister and then press OK to confirm.
After that, perform the same steps again, and now in the Open Box type msiexec /regserver and press OK to save.
Reboot your PC and try downloading Spotify again. If the program successfully downloads on your system, then this means error 17 is resolved. However, if the error code still persists, then try other methods given below.
Method 2 - Use System Restore to Undo Recent Changes
Another reason for the cause of error 17 is the improper or incomplete installation of Spotify. Improper installations can configure settings and also leave bad entries in the registries.
To resolve, use System Restore utility built-in Windows. By using this system tool, you can undo recent changes and resume your computer to its previous condition as it was before the proper installation was attempted.
To do this, go to the start menu, then in the search box type System Restore and press enter. Go to System Restore and choose a restore point. Once you’ve selected the point, reboot your PC to activate changes.
Method 3 - Remove Viruses
Viruses can enter and damage your PC if you download software programs from unknown websites. These not only damage your PC but also hinder your ability to install desired programs successfully in this case audio player Spotify.
In such an event, simply use an antivirus to remove all viruses infecting your system. After they are removed, make sure you download and install Spotify software from a trusted website.
Method 4 - Repair the Registry
Another cause of error 17 is registry corruption. This occurs due to bad entries, invalid and junk files saved in the registry. To fix the corrupt registry simply download Restoro.
This is a user-friendly PC Fixer embedded with a powerful registry cleaner. This software is compatible with all Windows versions. The registry cleaner detects all registry issues, removes all file corrupting the registry, and cleans it immediately in just a few clicks.
Click here to download Restoro on your PC and resolve Error 17.
Windows Setup in Continuous Reboot Loop – What is it?
After upgrading to Windows 10 operating system from Windows 7 or Windows 8/8.1, a lot of Windows users are complaining about the Windows setup in a continuous reboot loop. The computer would just keep on rebooting every time the machine is booted and this incites frustration for a lot of Windows users.
Solution
Error Causes
When Windows launched the third update for Windows 10, users trying to upgrade to Windows 10 encountered an endless reboot loop problem. The computer will crash repeatedly. The KB3081424, which is a roll-up of bug fixes of Windows 10, continuously fails once you start the update process and then triggers a message showing: “We couldn’t complete the updates, undoing the changes.” The undoing process will then cause a system reboot mandatorily.
Once you log back on your computer again, the Windows 10 update will try to reinstall KB3081424. You will not be able to stop the update which will cause your Windows setup in a continuous reboot loop.
The KB3081424 will not be successfully installed since if it fails for the first time, that initial failure can be detected to create a bad entry in your Windows 10 registry. This will then prevent your subsequent attempts to reinstall KB3081424 to make it work correctly.
Further Information and Manual Repair
In order to fix the problem of Windows 10 setup in a continuous reboot loop, there are a few methods you can try. Try following these simple steps and you’ll be able to get rid of the problem.
Note: If you’re not highly confident to solve this issue on your own, it is highly recommended to consult an authorized computer technician who would be knowledgeable enough to fix the issue for you. In addition, you can also use a system optimizer to resolve the issue.
Method One: Check For Windows Update
Microsoft Windows released an updated fix for the Windows setup in continuous reboot loop problem. You can try fixing the issue through Windows Update.
Open Settings
Go to Update & Security
Select Windows Update then choose Check for updates
At this point, an additional update will be installed and downloaded to your operating system to resolve the continuous reboot loop problem.
Method Two: Eliminate Bad Registry Entry
Before KB3081424 attempts to install again, you can try doing this solution:
Click on the Start menu then type regedit
Once the window opens, go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindows NTCurrentVersionProfileList
Create a backup for your registry key (since this process is a bit risky). Select ProfileList then click on File and Export then choose your backup name.
From the ProfileList IDs, remove anything with ProfileImagePath in it.
Close Regedit then reboot. By this time, the KB3081424 should properly install.
Method Three: Perform A Startup Repair
Another thing you can try to solve the Windows setup in continuous reboot loop problem is to perform a startup repair from a working computer.
Ensure that all unnecessary devices are disconnected from your computer as your computer might detect them.
If you are connected to a network, you need to disconnect from this as well.
On a working computer, download the Windows 10 ISO then you can perform a startup repair.
Boot your computer from the Windows 10 DVD.
To change your BIOS option to boot from the Windows 10 DVD, follow these steps:
Boot your computer then press the F2 function key to enter setup.
NOTE: You must do this quickly since the BIOS loads rapidly.
Once you’re inside the BIOS, navigate to the Boot Configuration screen. On this screen, you’ll be able to change the first device to be loaded.
Go to Removable Devices then hit Enter. Removable devices could either be a thumb drive or DVD. Select DVD to put it at the top and be the first boot device.
Save your changes by pressing on the F10 function key. A setup confirmation box will appear with a message Save configuration changes and exit now. Select Yes.
Exit BIOS by pressing on the ESC key. You should be prompted to boot from the Windows 10 DVD at this point.
If you're not able to execute the aforementioned processes on your own, get help or download and install a powerful system optimizerto assist with the windows continuous reboot loop process and other Windows 10 error messages.
If you are not able to access the Windows 10 Advanced troubleshooting options within Windows then you’ve come to the right place as this post will guide you on how you can repair or boot the Windows 10 installation without losing data using the bootable installation USB or DVD media. To repair or boot Windows 10 using the installation media, you have to download the Windows ISO, create a bootable USB or DVD drive, boot from the media and select “Repair your computer” and then select Startup Repair under Advanced troubleshooting. To get started, follow the given steps below carefully.
Step 1: Frist, download the Windows ISO.
Although this is not necessarily needed, it’s still better if you download the Windows ISO first so make sure that you download the same ISO version as installed on your computer.
Step 2: Next, create a bootable USB or DVD drive.
Insert your USB drive into your PC.
Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box and type in “cmd” and tap Enter to open the Command Prompt. Alternatively, you can also search for “cmd” in the Cortana search box to open Command Prompt.
Once you’ve opened CMD, type in this command to open the DISPART utility – diskpart
After that, you should see a new black and white window that would say, “DISKPART>”.
Next, type in “list disk” in the command line and tap Enter to see the list of all the Storage devices as well as your hard disk connected to your PC. Here, you have to identify your disk’s number.
Type in this command where “X” is the disk number you have identified and then tap Enter – disk X
Type in this command and hit Enter to clear the table records and all the visible data on the drive – clean
Now you have to recreate a new primary partition of the drive so you’ll have to type in this command and tap Enter right after – create part pri
A new primary partition has been created so you have to select it by typing this command and tapping Enter – select part 1
Now you have to format it to make it visible to normal users by typing – format fs=ntfs quick
Note: If your platform supports the Unified Extensible Firmware Interface or UEFI, replace the “NTFS” with “FAT32” in the command on Step 10.
After that, type in this command and tap Enter after – active
Finally, type this command and hit Enter to exit the utility – exit
After you prepare the image for the operating system, save it to the root of your USB Storage device.
Step 3: After creating a bootable drive, boot from the media and select the “Repair your computer” option.
Once you boot from the USB drive, it will start the Windows 10 installation right away. So you must not keep on clicking Next as you will end up installing Windows. You need to look for the “Repair your computer” link on the first installation screen and click on it and then boot your computer into Advanced Recovery.
Step 4: Select Startup Repair under the Advanced options screen
Once you’re at the Advanced Recovery screen, select Advanced Options and select Troubleshoot.
After that, look for the Startup Repair and click on it and then follow the next on-screen instructions. This solution will help you fix issues that do not allow you to boot into your computer.
On the next screen, you will see the admin account with its name. Click on it and verify using the account password associated with the email.
After verification, it will start to diagnose your computer and automatically resolve any detected issues related to boot.
After the issue is fixed, your computer should reboot normally and you should now be able to use it. Note that your personal files are still intact since the process didn’t delete or wipe them out.
Have you been feeling anxious in the digital space? Feeling like you have a million eyes on you each time you visit a website? It can definitely make you uneasy. Luckily there’s an easy fix, and it’s called a VPN.
In this article we’ll take you through the basics of what a VPN does and some of the biggest benefits you can reap from buying one.
VPN: definition and how it works
VPN stands for Virtual Private Network, so its name already says a lot about what it does.
A VPN is specialized software that keeps your browsing private and secure. Essentially it hides your identity, preventing possible cyberattacks and data theft. This is especially important in cases of public network use, where you’re highly exposed to potential threats.
To be more specific, this software encrypts your Internet Protocol (IP) address by filtering it through a server hosted by the VPN provider first. That way, it prevents your Internet service provider, third parties and lurking online thieves from tracking the actual you.
Credit: FLY:D on Unsplash
Some providers, such as Surfshark VPN with its IP Rotator feature, even make it a habit to frequently change your IP address to further protect your identity. With most VPN providers, you can also appear to be in a completely different country, adding to your disguise.
There are tons of advantages you can look forward to if you decide to use a VPN. Take a look at some of the crucial ones.
Benefits of using a VPN
When choosing a VPN, you can find both free and paid options. We recommend you go with the paid ones, since they have stronger security, encryption and data protection, as well as more advanced features. Free VPNs come with limitations and risk of malicious attacks on the software itself.
You can choose to buy a singular VPN service or opt for antivirus software that has a VPN built in, for example Bitdefender’s Ultimate Security plan. That depends on what you use your computer for and how much.
When you pick one, here’s what it can do for you.
1. Access region-specific content
When we said you could change your location, we meant it. Say you’re using a streaming service and a show you desperately want to watch isn’t available in your country. You can use your VPN to make it look like you’re browsing from a country where it’s unlocked.
This option is also convenient for gamers who want to access maps, skins and other in-game items unavailable in their location.
In addition, you can use this powerful feature when you’re traveling to a region where some of your favorite content may not be accessible.
Do keep in mind that you need to read the Terms and Conditions (yeah, we know - who does that?) of your games and services before doing this, since you could end up getting a penalty. It’s also important to remember that there are entire countries that have strict regulations or even bans on VPNs, for example Belarus, Russia and China. So make sure to be very cautious with your VPN use, friends.
2. Browse like no one’s watching
VPNs shield your browsing habits from prying eyes on the web. Those can be malicious hackers or just third-party cookies tracking your every move to later bombard you with targeted ads. For example, Surfshark VPN features a Cookie blocker that blocks all cookie-related pop-ups and lets you browse in peace (and secret). It works even when the VPN is turned off, which is also pretty neat.
In addition, their CleanWeb 2.0 technology makes sure ads and especially malware don’t stand a chance at all, since they’re blocked before they can even load.
The inability of sites to track your browsing means they can’t collect and analyze any of your data. So, your personal information - or your company’s information in case that’s what you’re using your computer for - is entirely hidden and secure.
3. Save money
It’s well-known that the prices of certain items and services vary based on your location, browsing time, age and many other factors. This most commonly goes for airline tickets and hotel stays.
You can use your VPN to avoid high prices and surcharges. Clear all cookies, turn on your VPN and visit an online shopping site to check out their prices. Then compare your findings with the offers you see when your VPN is off, when you spend a long time on the site or have an active account with the company.
Sometimes this can really help you find the best deals and avoid breaking the bank. But again, check the Terms and Conditions before you purchase something using a VPN.
4. Secure your smart home
The more smart devices you have connected to your network, the more exposed you are to potential cyberattacks. Phones and computers are generally designed to be decently secure even without a VPN or antivirus, but smart home devices leave a lot to be desired in that regard.
Protecting your home network with a VPN software means all devices connected to it are secure, be it an air purifier or Alexa.
5. Prevent connection slowdown
Your ISP can intentionally slow down your internet speed based on how much data you’ve consumed (data throttling) or your activities online (bandwidth throttling).
But with a VPN, what kind of data you send and receive and how much is entirely hidden. Therefore, if your ISP can’t see you, they can’t control you and they can’t throttle down your speed.
The bottom line
You can never be too safe online. So definitely think about getting yourself a solid VPN to pump up your privacy and security as much as you can. And if you have any questions or need help choosing the perfect software for you, feel free to reach out to us.