PowerShell script Error 0xFFFD0000 in Windows

If you suddenly get a message telling you that “Your Windows license will expire soon, You need to activate Windows in Settings” on your Windows 10 computer but you know that your Windows 10 is already activated. Worry not for this post will help you get rid of that error message right away. Before you get started, make sure that you have the Windows product key with you. If you don’t, you can get it by running the following command in an elevated Command Prompt:

wmic path SoftwareLicensingService get OA3xOriginalProductKey

Take note of the product key and then proceed to the options given below.

Option 1 – Try activating Windows 10 again or use another product key

• If you’re sure that you have the correct product key, click the Go to the Settings button.
• After that, click the Activate button once again.
• If you have another license key, you can also use that as well, just simply click on the Change product key.
• Then enter the new product key and click on Activate. That should fix the problem, if it doesn’t, refer to the next option below.

Option 2 – Try to reset the licensing status

• Click the Start button and then type “cmd” in the Search box and then tap Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open an elevated Command Prompt.
• Next, type the “slmgr –rearm” and hit Enter to reset the licensing status.
• Restart your computer and check if the error is now gone or not.

Option 3 – Try uninstalling the product key and re-enter it once more.

• The first thing you have to do to uninstall the product key is to know the Activation ID of your Windows installation. To do so, open an elevated Command Prompt and type this command, and hit Enter – vbs /dlv
• After you enter the command, you should see the licensing status and Activation ID. And to get all the Activation IDs of all the installed Windows versions, key in this command and hit Enter – vbs /dlv all

Note: The “/dlv” parameter will give you the license information for the installed operating system.

• After you enter the second command, you should see a Windows Script Host window with all the Windows licensing and activation status. Take note of the Activation ID.
• Next, in the same elevated Command Prompt, type this command – slmgr /upk <Activation ID>

Note: In the third given command, “/upk” stands for “uninstall product key”. This parameter uninstalls the product key of the current Windows edition.

• Restart your PC. After that, your computer will be in an unlicensed state so you need to re-enter the product key again.

Option 4 – Try rebuilding the Tokens.dat file.

The issue might be caused by a corrupted Tokens.dat file. The Tokens.dat file is a digitally signed file that stores most of the Windows Activation files so if it is corrupted then no wonder you’re having activation issues. To rebuild the Tokens.dat file, refer to these steps:

• From the WinX Menu, open an elevated Command Prompt.
• After opening Command Prompt, you need to type each one of the following commands and after you type each command, hit Enter.
  • net stop sppsvc
  • cd %windir%ServiceProfilesLocalServiceAppDataLocalMicrosoftWSLicense
  • ren tokens.dat tokens.bar
  • net start sppsvc
  • exe %windir%system32slmgr.vbs /rilc
• Now restart your computer.

Option 5 – Try running the Windows 10 Activation Troubleshooter

• 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 6 – 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.

DiscoverAncestry is a Browser Extension for Google Chrome developed by Mindspark Inc that presents itself as a web tool to discover the origins or meanings of particular family names. When installed this extension changes your default new tab page to search by MyWay, as well as your default search engine to Search.MyWay.com

While active, DiscoverAncestry logs user browsing information, recording clicked links, visited websites and viewed products. This information is later used to better target personal ads. Browsing the internet with this extension active will result in injection of additional ads, sponsored content and even pop-up ads throughout the browsing sessions.

DiscoverAncestry is usually found bundled with other potentially unwanted software, this combined alongside its aggressive ad injection is why DiscoverAncestry has been marked as a Browser Hijacker, and it is recommended to remove it from your computer.

About Browser Hijackers

Browser hijacking is regarded as the web’s constant risks that target web browsers. It’s a type of malware program that redirects web browser requests to other suspicious websites. Basically, most browser hijackers are made for advertising or marketing purposes. It redirects you to the sponsored websites and inserts adverts on your internet browser which helps its developer generate income. It might seem naive, but the majority of such websites aren’t legitimate and can pose a significant risk to your on-line safety. In a much worst case, your internet browser could be hi-jacked to download malware that will do a lot of damage to your computer.

Browser hijacking signs and symptoms

There are several symptoms that could indicate a browser hijacking: 1. your homepage is reset to some unknown site 2. bookmark and the new tab are also changed 3. default online search engine is modified 4. you’re getting browser toolbars you haven’t witnessed before 5. you will find random pop-ups start showing regularly 6. your internet browser has instability issues or exhibits frequent errors 7. you are blocked to access the websites of antivirus solution providers.

How does a computer get infected with a browser hijacker?

Browser hijackers can get into a computer by some means or other, for instance via file sharing, downloads, and email also. Many web browser hijackings originate from add-on applications, i.e., toolbars, browser helper objects (BHO), or extensions added to web browsers to give them extra features. A browser hijacker may also come bundled-up with some free application that you inadvertently download and install, compromising your PC security. Common examples of browser hijackers include CoolWebSearch, Conduit, Coupon Server, OneWebSearch, RocketTab, Snap.do, Delta Search, and Searchult.com. Browser hijackers may record user keystrokes to gather potentially valuable information leading to privacy issues, cause instability on systems, drastically disrupt user’s browsing experience, and eventually slow down the computer to a stage where it becomes unusable.

Removal

Some browser hijacking can be simply reversed by discovering and eliminating the corresponding malware software through your control panel. However, many hijackers are really tenacious and need specialized applications to remove them. Also, manual removals demand deep system understanding and thus can be quite a difficult task for novices. Professionals always suggest users eliminate any malicious software including browser hijackers by using an automatic malware removal tool, which is easier, safer, and faster than the manual removal procedure. To remove any kind of browser hijacker from your laptop or computer, you should download the following certified malware removal tool – SafeBytes Anti-Malware. Along with anti-virus software, a system optimizer tool, similar to Total System Care, will help you repair Windows registry errors, get rid of unwanted toolbars, secure your online privacy, and stabilize programs installed on your computer.

Learn How to Get rid of Malware that is Blocking Websites or Preventing Downloads

Viruses may cause a lot of damage to your computer. Some malware sits in between your PC and the internet connection and blocks some or all internet sites that you really want to visit. It will also prevent you from adding anything to your PC, particularly antivirus applications. If you’re reading this article, you probably have affected by a virus that prevents you from downloading a security program like Safebytes Antimalware on your PC. There are some actions you can take to circumvent this issue.

Install anti-malware in Safe Mode with Networking

In the event the malware is set to run at Windows start-up, then booting in safe mode should avoid it. Just bare minimum required programs and services are loaded when you boot your PC in Safe Mode. Here are the steps you need to follow to start into the Safe Mode of your Windows XP, Vista, or 7 computers (check out the Microsoft website for instructions on Windows 8 and 10 computers). 1) At power on, press the F8 key while the Windows splash screen begins to load. This should bring up the Advanced Boot Options menu. 2) Choose Safe Mode with Networking using arrow keys and hit Enter. 3) Once you get into this mode, you will have an internet connection again. Now, obtain the malware removal program you need by utilizing the web browser. To install the program, follow the directions within the setup wizard. 4) Right after installation, do a complete scan and allow the software eliminate the threats it finds.

Utilize an alternate browser to download antivirus software

Some malware only targets certain browsers. If this sounds like your situation, utilize another internet browser as it can circumvent the malware. The ideal way to avoid this problem is to opt for a internet browser that is known for their security features. Firefox contains built-in Phishing and Malware Protection to keep you safe online. Create a portable USB antivirus for removing viruses Another method is to download and transfer an anti-malware application from a clean PC to run a virus scan on the infected computer. To run antivirus using a USB drive, follow these simple measures: 1) Make use of another virus-free computer system to download Safebytes Anti-Malware. 2) Plug the USB drive into the clean computer. 3) Double-click the executable file to open the installation wizard. 4) When asked, choose the location of the USB drive as the place where you want to store the software files. Follow the on-screen instructions to finish the installation. 5) Transfer the flash drive from the clean computer to the infected computer. 6) Double-click the anti-malware software EXE file on the pen drive. 7) Run Full System Scan to identify and clean-up up all sorts of malware.

SafeBytes Anti-Malware: Lightweight Malware Protection for Windows Computer

If you are looking to purchase anti-malware for your desktop, there are numerous brands and packages for you to consider. A few are well worth your money, but most aren’t. When looking for an antivirus tool, select one which provides dependable, efficient, and comprehensive protection against all known computer viruses and malware. On the list of highly recommended applications by industry leaders is SafeBytes Anti-Malware, well-known security software for Windows computers. SafeBytes is a powerful, real-time anti-spyware application that is made to assist everyday computer users in safeguarding their computers from malicious threats. Once you’ve got installed this software, SafeBytes advanced protection system will make sure that absolutely no viruses or malicious software can seep through your PC.

There are lots of amazing features you’ll get with this security product. The following are some typical features present in this software program:

Active Protection: Malware programs aiming to get into the system are discovered and stopped as and when detected by the SafeBytes real-time protection shields. This utility will always keep track of your computer for any suspicious activity and updates itself continuously to keep current with the latest threats. World-class AntiMalware Protection: Built upon a highly acclaimed antivirus engine, this malware removal tool can find and get rid of various obstinate malware threats such as browser hijackers, PUPs, and ransomware that other typical anti-virus applications will miss. Fast Multi-threaded Scanning: SafeBytes’s virus scan engine is one of the fastest and most efficient within the industry. It's targeted scanning tremendously increases the catch rate for viruses which is embedded in various computer files. Web Protection: SafeBytes provides instant safety rating about the webpages you’re about to visit, automatically blocking dangerous sites and to make sure that you’re certain of your online safety while browsing the net. Lightweight Utility: This software is lightweight and will work silently in the background, and will not impact your PC efficiency. 24/7 Customer Service: You can obtain totally free 24/7 technical support from their IT experts on any product queries or computer security issues. SafeBytes has created a wonderful anti-malware solution to help you conquer the latest computer threats and virus attacks. Now you may realize that this particular software does more than just scan and eliminate threats from your computer. So if you are searching for the best anti-malware subscription for your Windows-based computer, we strongly recommend SafeBytes Anti-Malware software.

Technical Details and Manual Removal (Advanced Users)

If you don’t want to use an automated tool and prefer to eliminate DiscoverAncestry manually, you might do so by going to the Windows Add/Remove Programs menu in the control panel and deleting the offending software; in cases of web browser plug-ins, you can remove it by visiting the browsers Add-on/Extension manager. You might even want to reset your web browser settings, and also delete temporary files, browsing history, and cookies. To ensure complete removal, manually check your hard disk and registry for all of the following and remove or reset the values accordingly. Please remember that this is for skilled users only and may be challenging, with wrong file removal leading to additional system errors. Furthermore, certain malware keeps replicating which makes it tough to eliminate. You are suggested to do this process in Windows Safe Mode.

When we purchase a computer, usually it is meant to be used by one person. Sometimes we would like to share our computer with other people, with friends and family members but we would also like to keep some privacy for ourselves in the process. Lucky for us Windows 10 will let us create multiple user accounts which then can be used by other persons with their own settings, documents, etc. The only requirement is to already have one user account which is automatically created when Windows is installed. This guide will lead you step by step in the creation of a new user account within Windows 10, so grab your favorite drink, and let's begin.

Creating new account

First thing is to click on the windows icon on the bottom left and open start menu, from start menu click once on settings. When the settings window opens, choose ACCOUNTS on it. Windows will then go to the accounts settings page. Within that page, click on the Family & other users to open the setting for the chosen section on right. On the right settings, screen navigate to the lower section and click once with the left button on add someone else to this PC When add someone else to this PC is clicked, pop up window will appear which will ask you to provide the persons email address and later on the password of his/her Microsoft account, after the required information is provided you are done, a new user has been added and he can use his Microsoft credentials on the login screen to use this computer.

Setting up a user without Microsoft ID

However, if you do not wish to add a new user via his Microsoft login credentials or the person does not have them, on the pop-up window click on I don't have this person's sign-in information. This will open yet another pop-up giving you the option to create a Microsoft account for this person, to use a phone number instead of a Microsoft account, or to create a new email address for the user. Any of these options will create a new user for this computer with provided credentials but there is the last option at bottom of the pop-up which will allow you to create a local user only without a Microsoft account. This user will be able to use this computer, will not be able to transfer his document through various devices like he/she would if using a valid Microsoft account but it could use the computer and personalize it fully to his/her liking. Once the link is clicked, you will be presented with a floating window requiring you to input needed information in order for the account to be created. You will need to provide username, password, and answers to 3 security questions. Once all information has been provided, click on next and your new non-Microsoft local user has been created. Now when you click on Family & other users you will see that Windows has added a new user with the provided name to this computer. If you wish, you can add another user in the same manner, following the previous steps. Microsoft Windows does not have a limit for how many users can be on one computer so feel free to create as many as you like.

User account options

Now, clicking on the existing created user will open user options. From there you will have options to remove the user, therefore removing him/her from this computer, note that removing the local user will remove permanently his/her settings and they would not be able to be restored, or you can change the user account type. Click on Change account type. Under account type, you will have the option to promote this user to an administrator if you wish or you can leave it as a standard user.

Logitech announced the Logitech G CLOUD gaming handheld, somewhat of a STEAM Deck competitor. Somewhat, because the reason is that not like Deck this device is not packing huge power in order to run locally PC games, instead it is made with one goal in mind to connect to Cloud gaming and let you play games in that way.

The device is packed with a 7-inch display featuring 1080p resolution in a 16:9 ratio with a refresh rate of 60Hz, an analog thumbstick, a D-pad, 4 action buttons, and triggers. Inside the device beats Snapdragon 720G (CPU used in most Android phones), 4GB of LPDDR4X RAM & 64GB of internal storage. As seen hardware is way less impressive than one that is packed inside the STEAM deck but as stated this handheld is not meant to run natively PC games so this hardware will suffice for its purpose.

Logitech has partnered with both Nvidia and Microsoft to add GeForce now and Xbox Cloud Gaming access to its device. If you have an account on either one of these services you can fully use them on the Logitech G Cloud gaming handheld. You can also play some Android games via the Google play store but the main goal is Cloud gaming.

The price of 350$ USD is not very impressive since STEAM Deck which is a way more capable device is running for 400$ USD, for the difference of only 50$ USD Deck has an advantage, and the price itself is a hard point for selling and if we place into this mix som retro handhelds that go as low as 100$ USD Logitech is in an awkward position. Note that Nintendo Switch is 300$ USD.

Error Code 1007 - What is it?

This is a typical system error.  This error means the requested operation cannot be performed in full-screen mode. It hampers your ability to run your desired program on Windows PC. It is displayed on computer screens in the following format:

"ERROR_FULLSCREEN_MODE" and/or as the hexadecimal value 0x3EF.”

Solution

Error Causes

The system error code 1007 can be triggered due to several reasons. This includes but is not limited to:

• Windows registry damage or corruption
• Device driver conflicts
• Spyware or viral infection
• Hardware malfunction
• Software file damage or corruption

Unlike the blue screen of death error codes, this error is not fatal. But it may hamper your ability to run and work on your desired program. To avoid the inconvenience, it is advisable to fix it immediately.

Further Information and Manual Repair

Try these easy and effective do it yourself methods to repair the system error code 1007 on your PC:

Method 1 - Scan Your System for Viruses

If the underlying cause of error 1007 on your system is viral and spyware infection, then it is advisable to download a powerful antivirus and scan your entire PC. An antivirus not only detects but also removes all types of viruses including spyware, Trojans and adware. Once removed, try running your desired program again, if the program runs successfully, this means the error is resolved.

Method 2 - Update the Drivers

When the error code 1007 occurs due to driver conflict, then it is advisable to update the drivers. To do so simply use the driver update wizard from within Device Manager. The wizard will guide you through the entire driver update process, making it extremely simple for you to update the drivers in minutes.

Method 3 - Clean and Repair the Registry

You may experience the error 1077 because of registry damage or corruption. If this is the reason, then it is suggested you download Restoro. This is a user-friendly and multi-functional PC Fixer deployed with a powerful registry cleaner. It scans your entire system for registry related errors and issues, removes all unnecessary and obsolete files like cookies, junk files and bad registry entries, notorious for registry corruption. In addition to this, it also repairs the registry and damaged system files, thereby resolving the system error code 1007 immediately. Click here to download Restoro on your PC and fix system error code 1007 today!

What is Search.schooldozer.com? And how does it function?

Search.schooldozer.com is a browser extension that functions as a search engine. It is developed and maintained by “Schooldozer”. It claims to improve users’ browsing experience by providing them with improved search results. However, it does not really do the things it claims to do. In fact, they’re quite the opposite ones – instead of improving the browsing experience, it makes users’ browsing experience unsafe and full of sponsored content. This is in contrast to what it states in its Privacy Policy:

“Install applications the easy way and without the hassle, using the Schooldozer downloader. The Schooldozer platform stems from years of experience with installing applications, resulting in a highly optimized process, yielding faster downloads, better user experience, and more successful installations.”

In addition, once installed Search.schooldozer.com is installed, it will change the default settings of a browser such as the default search engine, homepage, and new tab page. This is why security experts regard this browser extension as a browser hijacker and a potentially unwanted program. The modification of the browser's settings allows it to control users’ browsing by redirecting them to sponsored sites as well as deliver sponsored content from its affiliated sites in order to gain profit via pay-per-click marketing. And if you think that the ads it displays are harmless, think again for some of these ads can redirect you to suspicious websites that might contain harmful content. What’s more is that this browser hijacker can also keep track and monitor all your browsing activities in order to obtain your browsing data like search queries, what sites you always visit, browsing history, browser type, OS version, and so on. The information collected is then used and may even be shared with its affiliated third parties to deliver more customized and personalized advertisements.

How is Search.schooldozer.com distributed over the web?

Like a typical browser hijacker, Search.schooldozer.com is distributed using the software bundling method where several unknown and unwanted programs are bundled in a software package. Thus when you install any software bundle, make sure to always opt for the Custom or Advanced installation setup rather than the quick setup to avoid installing unwanted programs like Search.schooldozer.com. To remove Search.schooldozer.com from your computer, follow the removal guide below carefully. Step 1: Start the removal process by closing all the browsers infected with Search.schooldozer.com. If you’re having a hard time closing them, you can close them using the Task Manager just tap on Ctrl + Shift + Esc. Step 2: After you open the Task Manager, go to the Processes tab and look for the infected browser’s process and end it. Step 3: Then close the Task Manager and tap the Win + R keys to open Run and then type in appwiz.cpl to open Programs & Features in Control Panel. Step 4: From there, look for Search.schooldozer.com or any unfamiliar program that could be related to it under the list of installed programs and once you’ve found it, uninstall it. Step 5: Edit your Hosts File.

• Tap the Win + R keys to open then type in %WinDir% and then click OK.
• Go to System32/drivers/etc.
• Open the host file using Notepad.
• Delete all the entries that contain Search.schooldozer.com.
• After that, save the changes you’ve made and close the file.

Step 6: Reset all your browsers to default to their default state.

Google Chrome

1. Launch Google Chrome, press Alt + F, move to More tools, and click Extensions.
2. Look for Search.schooldozer.com or any other unwanted add-ons, click the Recycle Bin button, and choose Remove.
3. Restart Google Chrome, then tap Alt + F, and select Settings.
4. Navigate to the On Startup section at the bottom.
5. Select “Open a specific page or set of pages”.
6. Click the More actions button next to the hijacker and click Remove.

Mozilla Firefox

1. Open the browser and tap Ctrl + Shift + A to access the Add-ons Manager.
2. In the Extensions, menu Remove the unwanted extension.
3. Restart the browser and tap keys Alt + T.
4. Select Options and then move to the General menu.
5. Overwrite the URL in the Home Page section and then restart the browser.

Internet Explorer

1. Launch Internet Explorer.
2. Tap Alt + T and select Internet options.
3. Click the General tab and then overwrite the URL under the homepage section.
4. Click OK to save the changes.

Step 7: Hold down Windows + E keys simultaneously to open File Explorer. Step 8: Navigate to the following directories and look for suspicious files associated to the browser hijacker such as the software bundle it came with and delete it/them.

• %USERPROFILE%Downloads
• %USERPROFILE%Desktop
• %TEMP%

Step 9: Close the File Explorer. Step 10: Empty the contents of Recycle Bin.

When trying to run Computer Management, or when running mmc.exe or compmgmt.msc from a command prompt you get the error that the application has been blocked for your protection then keep reading in order to solve the issue. This is a permission issue where if a regular user tries to run such system tools will result in saying that it has been blocked. Along with this, you may have a Group Policy issue. This can be fixed, but you will need admin permission to achieve it. It’s because when they are run from the command prompt with elevated privileges, it works.

1. Change Group Policy Settings

   If your account is an admin account, and you are still facing the issue, then change the group policy settings: Open Group Policy Settings by typing gpedit.msc in the run prompt followed by pressing ENTER Navigate to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Microsoft Management Console > Restricted/Permitted snap-ins Locate Computer Management policy, and double click to open it Enable it, exit Group Policy. When Enabled: The snap-in is permitted and can be added into the Microsoft Management Console or run from the command line as a standalone console. When Disabled: The snap-in is prohibited and cannot be added into the Microsoft Management Console or run from the command line as a standalone console. An error message is displayed stating that the policy is prohibiting the use of this snap-in.

2. Temporarily disable UAC

   UAC is the user access control panel, and if you need to run the command right away, you can choose to disable it for some time. Click on the Start button, and then type UAC to find the User Account Control Settings. Click to open, and then slide down the notification setting at the bottom. It will temporarily allow launching the application as there is no check. However, make sure to switch to default once you are done.

Afraid of the growing threats online? As you should be. But we’re here to show you what kinds of malware are out there and what you can do to keep them at bay.

Malware definition

Malware comes from the term malicious software. It’s software designed to attack and exploit devices and networks to the advantage of the hacker who made it.

Malware can be transmitted in different ways. Most commonly this happens via infected USB drives, downloadable files or malicious websites. Depending on the type and ultimate goal, the consequences of a malware attack can range from negligible to catastrophic.

What kinds of malware are there?

1. Virus

A virus is typically spread via infected files, websites or links. It’s one of the oldest malware types and one of the most difficult to get rid of. That’s because, once activated, it replicates itself - hence the name. 

It can perform different kinds of attacks, depending on what the creator wants to achieve. The main characteristic of a virus is that it really doesn’t show itself until you activate the host. So that’s a scary thought for sure.

2. Adware

Sometimes an ad blocker isn’t enough to fight off unwanted ads. And some of them can, unfortunately, be malicious. They may redirect you to infected sites or prompt downloads of risky files. Even just opening a malicious site can lead to data theft.

So, definitely be careful when clicking around. Even if an ad seems completely legitimate, you can never be too sure.

3. Ransomware

Through ransomware, cybercriminals gain access to a user’s data and use it to extort them for money. Basically, the user is threatened with data deletion or even exposure if a ransom isn’t paid by a specific deadline.

This is a particularly nerve-wracking type of malware. If it targets an individual, it preys upon their sense of anxiety, fear, guilt and even shame. If it targets a business (which is a lot more common), it preys upon not only that business’s profit but also every single one of their customers and their data.

4. Trojans

This type of malware disguises itself very well as a legitimate-looking program. Once you download it, hackers can get full access and control of your device, data and network. They can even be hidden in games, apps and attachments. They cannot self-replicate, though, so we guess that’s… good news?

5. Worms

Worms can replicate, just like viruses, but you don’t need to actually activate the infected program for them to get going. They can be used for various purposes, ranging from data deletion to file encryption to support a ransomware attack.

6. Spyware

Spyware refers to malicious software that stays hidden on your computer and monitors your activity. The best-known type is keyloggers. This can be used to steal sensitive data like passwords and banking information.

7. Rootkits

Rootkits are among the most dangerous types of malware. They allow administrative access and full control of a device, which lets hackers continue hijacking all your data and monitoring your activity without your knowledge.

8. Botnets

Botnets are networks made up of bots - computers that cybercriminals have infected with malicious software. Bots and botnets give hackers remote access to users’ devices and allow them to spy on your camera, take screenshots, memorize passwords and launch Distributed Denial of Service attacks. This one truly makes your hair stand on end.

What can you do about it?

You know the old adage - better safe than sorry. And trust us, malware attacks are such a pain in the you-know-what that you really don’t want to be sorry.

Luckily, there are simple solutions that can shield you from most digital threats these days. What you want to be looking at is a solid antivirus program. Well, technically, you need an antimalware program, but since the latter evolved from the former, we still mostly refer to them as antivirus software.
The majority of antimalware programs these days don’t just shield you from potential risks online, but include additional features as well. For example, some Bitdefender antivirus packages also include parental control and a VPN. And Bitdefender is not just for PCs either - it offers protection for your beloved iPhone or Android as well. You can throw in a password manager in there too, for an additional layer of security.

If you aren’t too concerned about all these various threats or feel like you don’t need extra security, you can at least take a step to protect your information from being exposed to lurking cybercriminals as you’re browsing. This can be done through a good VPN like Surfshark, which hides your identity in the digital space and prevents your data from being tracked.

Choosing the right protective software is especially important if you have children with access to the Internet, since they’re unfortunately even more vulnerable to malicious attacks. If you aren’t sure what the right kind of antimalware program is right for you, you can reach out to us and we’ll be happy to help keep your entire household or office digitally secure.

The bottom line

The truth is that there’s no way to be 100% protected in the online world. Hackers are constantly coming up with new ways to infiltrate our devices. But malware-battling software evolves along with them and there’s still plenty you can do to keep risks away. Stay safe!

Upgrading your Windows 10 computer does not always go smoothly and you often encounter not just one but various errors so, in this post, we are going to cover several Windows 10 upgrade errors such as 80240020, 8007002C, 80246007, 80070004. All these upgrade errors are related to the Windows Update folder. Thus, you need to clear the Software Distribution folder, repair the System Image and fix System Health in order to resolve all these Windows 10 Upgrade errors. Before you get started on the steps to resolve these tons of errors, you have to disable your security program for the meantime, disconnect your peripherals, remove USBs connected to your PC and then make sure that your PC is connected to the main power supply. Once you have everything covered, carefully follow the options given below.

Option 1 – Delete Windows 10 Update Files 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. A lot of users tried deleting the files in this folder to fix the problem and so far it has worked. Like them, you can try clearing the Windows Update cache by simply deleting the contents of the folder named “SoftwareDistribution” since Windows apparently can’t clear and re-download the update contents once they are corrupted. Thus, deleting the contents of this folder will make Windows download the contents again which will fix the problem. To do that, follow the steps below.

• 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 stop bits

• After entering these commands, it will stop the Windows Update Service and the Background Intelligent Transfer Service.
• 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.
• Once all the contents in the Software Distribution folder are deleted, restart your PC and then go back to Command Prompt and input the following commands again.

net start wuauserv net start bits

Since the folder has already been flushed, it will be populated afresh the instant your restart your computer and open Windows Update.

• Now Open Settings and check for Windows Updates. Windows 10 should begin the download right away.

Option 2 – Try using the DISM tool

Running the DISM Tool helps in repairing the Windows System Image as well as the Windows Component Store in Windows 10. Using this built-in tool, you have various options such as the “/ScanHealth”, “/CheckHealth”, and “/RestoreHealth”.

• Open the Command Prompt with admin privileges.
• Then type in the following commands and make sure to hit Enter right after you type each one of them:
  • Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
  • Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
  • exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
• Do not close the window if the process takes a while as it will probably take a few minutes to finish.

Note: If it happens that the Windows Update client is broken, you need to run the following command to repair it then restart your PC and click on Update once again.

DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /Source:C:RepairSourceWindows /LimitAccess

Note: The Windows Upgrade error, with error code 80240020 is an expected error message that happens when the upgrade requires customer user action. Thus, you need to do the following steps to resolve this particular Windows Upgrade error.

• Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
• Then type “regedit” in the field and hit Enter to open the Registry Editor.
• After that, navigate to this registry key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionWindowsUpdate
• Now right click on WindowsUpdate located in the left pane and then create a new key and name it as “OSUpgrade”
• Next, right-click in an empty space in the left pane and create a new DWORD and name it “AllowOSUpgrade” and enter “1” as its value.

Option 3 – Try running the Windows Update in a Clean Boot State.

Putting your PC in a Clean Boot state can also help you install Windows Updates or Upgrades without any trouble because, during this state, you can start the system with a minimum number of drivers and startup programs that will surely help you in isolating the root cause of the issue.

• 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” checkbox 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” checkbox.
• 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 that, try to install the Windows Updates or upgrade again.

Computer upgrades are the most common and most efficient ones. RAM upgrade is one of the easiest ones you can do and the most common ones but even as simple an upgrade as this one can cause certain issues. If you are experiencing error 0164, memory size decreased after RAM upgrade we are offering you solutions on how to fix this particular error and get your computer back in working order.

1. Change BIOS settings

   Enter your motherboard BIOS (usually by pressing the del key on startup) Load BIOS defaults Save changes and exit If the Error 0164: Memory size decreased issue persists even after loading setup defaults, then it must be configured manually inside the BIOS.

2. Clear CMOS

   Follow the instructions precisely:
   • Turn off all peripheral devices connected to the computer.
   • Disconnect the power cord from the AC power source.
   • Remove the computer cover.
   • Find the battery on the board. The battery may be in a horizontal or vertical battery holder or connected to an onboard header with a wire.
   If the battery is in a holder, note the orientation of the + and – on the battery. With a medium flat-blade screwdriver, gently pry the battery-free from its connector. If the battery is connected to an onboard header with a wire, disconnect the wire from the onboard header.
   • Wait one hour, then reconnect the battery.
   • Put the computer cover back on.
   • Plug the computer and all devices back in.
   • Power on the computer.