Windows got stuck on Preparing Windows screen

You might have experienced a situation when you restarted your Windows 10 PC after an upgrade and you tried logging into your account but only a screen with a message saying, “Preparing Windows”. If the screen only stays that way, this indicates that Windows 10 is trying to complete the upgrade or waiting for some files to load up so that you can use your account. Some users also reported that when they tried logging into their accounts, they also get the same message on their screens. To resolve this issue, read on as this post will show you what you can do if your Windows 10 PC is stuck on the “Preparing Windows” screen.

A lot of users have tried logging back into their account once more but to no avail as the same screen still greets them. And even when they tried the Ctrl + Alt + Del combo, it still didn’t work. This only goes to show that your account might somehow be corrupted.

Option 1 – Try booting your PC into Safe Mode

The first thing you can do to resolve the issue is to try booting your computer into Safe Mode and then log in using an Admin account. If it seems like your admin account has caused the problem, you need to create an admin account first and then log in after you reboot into the account and then log off. After that, restart your PC normally and check if the problem’s resolved or not. If not, refer to the next given option below.

Option 2 – Try to repair your corrupted profile via Registry

In this second option, you can try to repair the corrupted profile using the Registry but before you proceed, make sure to create a System Restore Point and then follow the steps below.

  • Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
  • Then type “regedit” in the field and hit Enter or click OK to open the Registry Editor.
  • Next, go to this registry key: ComputerHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindows NTCurrentVersionProfileList
  • Once you’ve opened the registry key, you should see a list of all the user profiles on your computer. Now click on each S-1-5 folder and look for the “ProfileImagePath” entry and double-click on it to check which user account it is related to. You will see a path like “CUsersACK” where “ACK” is the username.
  • You should know which among the user account is corrupted. Just look for a key named “RefCount” and change its Value data to “0” and click OK. And if it isn’t available, simply right-click on the right pane and create it.
  • After that, double click on the key named “State” and make sure that the Value data is “0” and click OK.
  • Exit the Registry Editor and restart your computer to apply the changes made.

Option 3 – Try running the System File Checker

System File Checker or SFC is a built-in command utility that helps in restoring corrupted files as well as missing files. It replaces bad and corrupted system files with good system files that might be the cause why your screen is stuck at “Preparing Windows”. To run the SFC command, follow the steps given below.

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

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

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

Option 4 – Try to repair hard disk errors using the Chkdsk utility

You can also run the Chkdsk utility to resolve the problem. If your hard drive has issues with integrity, the update will really fail as the system will think that it’s not healthy and that’s where the Chkdsk utility comes in. The Chkdsk utility repairs hard drive errors that might be causing the problem.

  • Open Command Prompt with admin privileges.
  • After opening Command Prompt, execute the commands listed below, and don’t forget to hit Enter right after you type in each one of them.
  • chkntfs /t
  • chkntfs /t:10

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Quick Guide to Fixing 0x0000007E Error

What is 0x0000007E Error Code?

If you’ve been experiencing a 0x0000007E error code pop message on your PC frequently then you need to get it fixed before it causes serious damage to your system. 0x0000007E is a Stop error or Blue Screen of Death error code. This error message turns your computer screen blue and locks you out of the program running on your computer. It freezes your system and hampers your ability to perform any type of task on your PC.

Solution

Restoro box imageError Causes

Error 0x0000007E, a blue screen of death error triggers registry issues. It’s not easy to narrow down the cause of 0x0000007E as it results due to many reasons like memory overload, cluttered disk space, viral infection, malware attack, and if the hardware malfunctions. Ignoring 0x0000007E error pop up is not wise. It is more like a warning of the serious damage that can happen to your PC if it is not fixed timely. It also leads to slowing down the system and increases boot time. This error message exposes you to dangerous Windows PC threats like registry corruption and damage. Registry corruption can lead to system crash and failure and you may also lose all your important data saved on your PC.

Further Information and Manual Repair

Install Restoro

You don’t always have to spend hundreds of dollars to hire a technician to fix error pop-ups on your PC try using Restoro Restoro is an advanced and multi-functional PC repair tool with a comprehensive suite of powerful features designed to resolve almost all types of PC errors in seconds including 0x0000007E error code. It is a next-generation PC repair tool that serves as a system optimizer, anti-virus, and quality registry cleaner. Its built-in intuitive technology enables Restoro to scan, identify and repair the ultimate cause of the error code 0x0000007E in just a few seconds. Eventually, it spares you from the hassle of finding the root cause of the 0x0000007E error message and then selecting a tool specifically designed to resolve only that particular cause with limited features. This highly functional PC error tool is the answer for all your registry issues. By running Restoro on your PC, you can fix the 0x0000007E BSOD error code and avoid registry corruption.

Why Restoro?

The smart registry cleaner utility embedded in this tool enables it to scan for registry errors and clear up disk space accumulated by junk files, internet temporary files, invalid entries, and other types of unnecessary files taking up a good chunk of your disk space. This clutter also slows down your PC performance as it requires more power than it has to run the system because of the excess load on the RAM. However, by wiping out the clutter with this helper, you can optimize the speed of your PC and see a significant difference in its performance. Restoro backup feature enables you to create backup files for safety purposes. Furthermore, it has several other built-in value-adding features like privacy error utility and system stability utility for enhanced functionality. To resolve the error code 0x0000007E in seconds, all you need to do is download and install Restoro on your system and run it to scan for errors. In a few seconds, you will see a scanning report with comprehensive details of the types of PC damages. To fix the issue right away, create backups and click ‘fix’ to resolve. In just a few clicks you can repair your PC. Download Restoro Today!
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Malware Guide: How to Remove Solimba

What is Solimba?

Solimba is a bundled executable program. It was created to be launched as a promotional tool to get advertisements loaded on a user’s system, upon installation. As a bundle, Solimba offers installation of various programs, with the objective of promoting various products and services. It utilizes unethical techniques, as in the case with adware tactics to influence or for want of a better word, hijack an Internet Browser to affect a website’s result on a search results page. In this assessment, Solimba distributed ads on Internet Explorer, Chrome, and Mozilla browsers, by hijacking various Internet Browsers to change the user's experience. (Images are shown below) Technical details about Solimba PUP include:
Digital Signature:  POPELER SYSTEM, S.L. Entry Point:   0x0000C1DC

Assessment of Solimba Potentially Unwanted Program

Solimba PUP is all about the ads. Once this executable is installed, it penetrates your computer system and sends ads all over your Internet Browser – Chrome, Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, and the likes. For this assessment of Solimba.exe PUP, two installations were carried through. In layman's terms, I actually installed Solimba on two occasions to decipher the true nature of the PUP. It was shocking to find that both installations revealed different bundled programs and advertisements. In the first instance (as shown below), Solimba proved more aggressive in featuring ads for revenue advancements.
 Solimba employed aggressive advertising techniques
It’s important to note that hijacked results resulting from the installation of Solimba. This affected the results of the website on the Internet browser to boost its ranking, even without the use of a search engine. The advertisement displayed on the Internet Explorer search page routes the user to a software installation website. The utility tool in question was a “Windows 8.1 PC Repair” tool used to identify threats present on the Windows 8.1 OS.Advertisement shown on Chrome after Solimba Installation The advertisement displayed on the Chrome Browser search page routes the user to a health and beauty magazine website. This site advocates health and beauty, especially issues concerning weight loss. Several ads were visible on-site, displaying products to assist people in losing weight. During my installation of Solimba, the installation wizard underscored that four programs would be downloaded. These programs included N8Fanclub.com_KinoniRemoteDesktop, Lolliscan, PaceItUp, and SearchProtect. Interestingly, only two programs from the list were apparent or obvious. An N8Fanclub.com_KinoniRemoteDesktop file was made on the Desktop and SearchProtect was seen in “All Programs”, along with files stored on the computer’s Local Drive. The other programs that were “supposedly” installed remained concealed. A test was done to determine whether these were counted as extensions or add-ons to the varying web browsers but nothing was found on any of the tested browsers – Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, and Mozilla Firefox.

Description of 4 Installed Files

N8Fanclub.com_KinoniRemoteDesktop

When this file was initially found on the Desktop, a rootkit came to mind. A rootkit was used as a means to an end. Whoever was on the receiving end of this unwanted file would be able to connect to an infiltrated system without the knowledge of the user. After running the file to determine its behavior, nothing much happened. A message appeared indicating that the software couldn’t execute on the computer. That was pretty tricky since, to begin with, I didn’t place that specific file on the desktop but it came along with the territory and so I had to accept it. Further research online into N8Fanclub.com_KinoniRemoteDesktop proved very rewarding. A search of the entire file name was not able to do the trick so I had to do research on both terms separately. After landing on N8Fanclub.com, I was nicely asked to disable my adblocker. There seemed nothing harmful about the site. However, due to the fact that it was not what I initially installed, the program was an unwanted program. That’s exactly what Solimba does. It installs several other programs that were not requested by the user in an attempt to make money from advertising. The mere fact that this program got installed meant that it was to promote an online service.

KinoniRemoteDesktop

was a separate program. It was combined with N8Fanclub as a way to allow users to use their PC computer “as if they were sitting in front of it.” A user would be able to make use of a full web browser, watch Flash videos, play games, and even use office applications. This would be done from the user’s Nokia device. This is an advertisement at its best.

Lolliscan

This program did not allow me to see much since it didn’t leave a physical trace behind. However, during the installation, Lolliscan was listed as one of the four programs that would be installed. Overall, Lolliscan supposedly should be able to save people money since this form of the ad focuses on showing coupons when visiting sites such as Amazon. While this seems like a good deal, this ad will invade your personal space and distribute pop-ups at the most inopportune times.

PaceItUp

As the name states, PaceItUp is software added to a browser with the intent to speed your computer. Quite the contrary, PaceItUp does the total opposite since it installs bundled programs that slow down a computer system. PaceItUp is also known for displaying ads and tracking what the user does on his/her computer system.

SearchProtect

It’s known for hijacking your computer’s homepage. In fact, this addition is very stubborn and often possesses a challenge when a request to uninstall is made.

Further Information on Solimba

The second installation of Solimba also had its own dose of bundles to display. In comparison to the first installation, two programs from the bundle were different while two remained the same. two additional programs were installed along with the second installation of this bundle. These were dubbed Optimizer Pro and GamesDesktop. SearchProtect and N8Fanclub.com_KinoniRemoteDesktop remained triumphant and unbeatable. They were repeated within the installation. To completely remove Solimba from your computer, click here to download and install Spyhunter.
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Update cannot currently check for updates
If you receive an error message saying, “Windows Update cannot currently check for updates because updates on this computer are controlled”, while trying to change the Windows Update preferences or manually update, then read on as this post will guide you in fixing it. You can mostly encounter this error in managed systems where an Administrator controls the permission on the operating system. The reason why you are not able to modify the Windows Update preferences or manually update your system is that a group policy prevents you from doing so and that the only user who can do these things is none other than the administrator of the system. Troubleshooting this kind of problem is the same as when you troubleshoot an error message that says, “Some settings are managed by your organization”. In such cases, you need to check both the Windows Update Group Policy and Registry settings. If you’re just a standard user, you have to contact your system administrator regarding this issue and if you are the administrator, you can make adjustments to the system settings via the Registry Editor and the Group Policy Editor. Refer to the instructions given below for detailed instructions.

Option 1 – via the Registry Editor

If you are using the Home edition of Windows 10 and you want to change the policy for non-admin users on your local computer, then you can use the Registry Editor for that. Here’s how you can do it:
  • 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 the following registry key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREPoliciesMicrosoftWindows
  • From there, look for the key named “WindowsUpdate” in the Windows folder and if it does not exist, you can just right-click on the Windows folder and select New > Key.
  • Now name the new key “WindowsUpdate” and create a new sub-key under the newly created key and input “AU” as its name.
  • Keep AU selected and then right-click anywhere in the right pane and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
  • Then name the Value as “AUOptions” and right-click on AUOptions and select Modify.
  • Next, change the value of the Value data to “5” and click OK to save the changes made to the settings. Note that the Value Data of 5 refers to the policy to allow the local admin to choose the setting.
  • Now restart your computer once you’re done and check if non-admin users can now modify the Windows Update settings or update Windows.

Option 2 – via Group Policy Editor

  • Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box and then type “gpedit.msc” and hit Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.
  • Next, navigate to this folder: Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update.
  • Now look for the “Configure Automatic Updates” policy on the right pane and double click on it to open its Properties.
  • After that, shift the Radio button to “Enabled” and from the drop-down menu for Configure automatic updating, select option 5: Allow local admin to choose the setting.
  • Then click on Apply and OK to save the changes made to the settings.
  • Restart your computer and check if the problem’s fixed or not.
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New toys in new PowerToys for Windows
A new update to popular Microsoft PowerToys has brought a few new features that are aimed at speeding up the workflow. PowerToysThe first new feature that was slid in is Always on top utility. With this cool utility, you can keep the window as the name suggests, always on top of other windows. To enable this cool feature all you have to do is press the key combination of ⊞ WINDOWS + CTRL + T and an active window will be now always on top of all other windows. To reverse and unlock this window from being always on top just press key combination again. A second new feature is a really great one and my favorite thing to happen in power toys. Often we are making the search in our browsers to find stuff, things, maybe some explanations, information, etc. The newest update in power toys brings this to a whole new dimension. While you are on PC you just simply need to type ?? followed by questions like: ?? When doctor strange 2 is coming out and that will launch your default browser with your chosen search engine and provide you with the answer. Third and final thing is G-code support in the file explorer preview pane and thumbnails, meaning that if you work with CNC equipment you can now have a thumbnail preview of the code itself inside File Explorer. And that’s it for now, thank you for coming and reading, Take care and I hope to see you next time.
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How to remove AnytimeAstrology

AnytimeAstrology is a browser extension for Google Chrome developed by Mindspark Inc. When installed, this extension will change your default new tab page to a custom search provider called MyWay (search.myway.com).

While browsing the internet with this extension installed, you will see additional ads through your browsing sessions, including but not limited to Sponsored Content, Injected Ads and Pop-up Ads.

While AnytimeAstrology is active it will monitor your browsing habits, recording website visits, clicked links, viewed products, etc. This information is later sent back to Mindspark Ad network servers where it is used to better target additional injected ads into your web pages.

Several anti-virus applications have marked this extension as a Browser Hijacker and it is recommended to remove it from your computer.

About Browser Hijackers

Browser hijackers (also known as hijackware) are a kind of malicious software that modifies web browser configuration settings without the computer owner’s knowledge or approval. These hijacks are raising at an alarming rate globally, and it can be actually nefarious and often harmful too. Browser hijackers could do more than just changing homepages. In most cases, hijackers are created for the benefit of online hackers usually through income generation that comes from forced ad clicks and site visits. While it might seem harmless, these tools are made by malicious people who always try to take advantage of you, so that they can earn money from your naive and distraction. Browser hijackers can also permit other vicious programs without your knowledge to further damage your computer.

Key symptoms that your browser has been hijacked

The following are some symptoms that indicate you’ve been hijacked: 1. your homepage has been reset to some unfamiliar site 2. your browser is constantly being redirected to porn sites 3. default internet search engine is modified 4. you find unwanted new toolbars added 5. you observe a lot of pop-up ads on your screen 6. your browser has become unstable or starts running slowly 7. you can’t visit certain websites such as homepages of antivirus software.

How browser hijacker finds its way to your computer

Browser hijackers could use drive-by downloads or file-sharing websites or perhaps an e-mail attachment in order to reach a targeted computer. They could also come from add-on software, also referred to as browser helper objects (BHO), web browser extensions or toolbars. Browser hijackers sneak into your computer along with free software downloads that you unwittingly install along with the original. An example of some well known browser hijacker includes Conduit, Anyprotect, Babylon, SweetPage, DefaultTab, RocketTab, and Delta Search, but the names are constantly changing. The existence of any browser hijacker on your computer might considerably diminish the web browsing experience, monitor your internet activities that result in serious privacy issues, produce system stability issues and ultimately cause your PC to slowdown or to an almost unusable condition.

The best ways to remove a browser hijacker

Some hijackers can be simply removed by deleting the free software they came with or by eliminating any extension you have recently added to your system. The sad thing is, the majority of the software applications used to hijack a internet browser are deliberately built to be hard to eliminate or detect. Novice computer users should never attempt for the manual form of removal methods, since it calls for thorough computer knowledge to carry out repairs on the computer registry and HOSTS file. Installing and running anti-malware application on the affected system will automatically erase browser hijackers and other unwanted applications. SafeBytes Anti-Malware could counter persistent hijackers and give you proactive computer protection against all kinds of malware. Together with the anti-virus tool, a system optimizer, such as SafeBytes’s Total System Care, could help you in removing all linked files and modifications in the registry automatically.

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

Malware could potentially cause a great deal of damage to your PC. Some malware sits in between the computer and the internet connection and blocks some or all websites that you really want to visit. It might also prevent you from adding anything to your PC, especially anti-malware software. If you’re reading this article, you may have got affected by a virus that prevents you from installing a security software like Safebytes Anti-Malware. Follow the instructions below to get rid of malware through alternate methods.

Eliminate malware in Safe Mode

If the malware is set to run immediately when Windows starts, entering safe mode could very well block the attempt. Just the minimum required programs and services are loaded when you start your PC in Safe Mode. To launch your Windows XP, Vista or 7 computer in Safe Mode with Networking, do as instructed below. 1) At power-on/startup, press the F8 key in 1-second intervals. This will invoke the Advanced Boot Options menu. 2) Select Safe Mode with Networking using arrow keys and press ENTER. 3) Once this mode loads, you will have an internet connection. Now, use your internet browser normally and navigate to https://safebytes.com/products/anti-malware/ to download Safebytes Anti-Malware. 4) As soon as the software program is installed, allow the scan run to eliminate trojans and other threats automatically.

Use an alternate web browser to download an antivirus application

Some malware mainly targets particular internet browsers. If this is your case, make use of another browser as it might circumvent the computer virus. If you suspect that your Internet Explorer happens to be hijacked by a virus or otherwise compromised by online hackers, the best plan of action is to switch to a different browser such as Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, or Apple Safari to download your favorite security application – Safebytes Anti-Malware.

Make a bootable USB anti-virus drive

To successfully eliminate the malware, you will need to approach the problem of running antivirus program on the affected PC from a different angle. Follow these steps to employ a USB flash drive to fix your infected PC. 1) Download the anti-malware program on a virus-free PC. 2) Insert the pen drive on the same system. 3) Run the setup program by double-clicking the executable file of the downloaded application, which has an .exe file extension. 4) When asked, select the location of the USB drive as the place where you want to put the software files. Follow the onscreen instructions to finish the installation. 5) Remove the pen drive. You can now use this portable antivirus on the affected computer. 6) Double-click the antivirus program EXE file on the thumb drive. 7) Run Full System Scan to detect and clean-up up all types of malware.

Protect Your Computer Against Viruses and Malware With SafeBytes Anti-Malware

Would you like to download the best anti-malware software program for your desktop? There are numerous applications in the market that comes in free and paid versions for Microsoft Windows computers. Some are good ones, some are ok types, while some are simply just bogus anti-malware software which will damage your personal computer themselves! You must pick one that is dependable, practical and has a strong reputation for its malware protection. On the list of recommended software programs is SafeBytes AntiMalware. SafeBytes has a really good history of excellent service, and customers appear to be very happy with it. SafeBytes antimalware is a highly effective and easy-to-use protection tool which is created for users of all levels of IT literacy. Through its cutting-edge technology, this software will help you protect your PC against infections brought on by different kinds of malware and similar threats, including adware, spyware, computer viruses, worms, trojan horses, keyloggers, potentially unwanted program (PUPs), and ransomware.

There are plenty of amazing features you will get with this security product. Listed below are some of the great features included in the application.

World-class AntiMalware Protection: This deep-cleaning antimalware program goes much deeper than most antivirus tools to clean out your computer system. Its critically acclaimed virus engine detects and disables hard to remove malware that conceals deep within your personal computer. Active Protection: SafeBytes delivers complete and real-time security for your computer system. They are highly effective in screening and removing numerous threats since they’re continuously improved with new updates and alerts. Safe Web Browsing: Through its unique safety ranking, SafeBytes tells you whether a site is safe or not to visit it. This will ensure that you’re always certain of your online safety when browsing the web. Faster Scanning: SafeBytes’s virus scan engine is among the fastest and most efficient within the industry. It's targeted scanning considerably increases the catch rate for malware that is embedded in various PC files. Lightweight Application: SafeBytes is a lightweight application. It consume a really small amount of processing power as it works in the background so you’re free to use your Windows-based PC the way you really want. 24/7 Premium Support: You can get absolutely free 24/7 technical support from their IT experts on any product queries or PC security concerns. SafeBytes has created a fantastic anti-malware solution to help you conquer the latest malware threats and virus attacks. You can be sure that your computer system will be protected in real-time as soon as you put this software to use. So if you are searching for the best anti-malware subscription for your Windows-based PC, we suggest the SafeBytes Anti-Malware application.

Technical Details and Manual Removal (Advanced Users)

If you wish to manually get rid of AnytimeAstrology 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 web browser plug-ins, going to the browser’s AddOn/Extension manager and removing it. You will most probably also want to totally reset your browser to its default configuration settings. Finally, examine your hard disk for all of the following and clean your computer registry manually to get rid of leftover application entries after uninstallation. Please remember that this is for professional users only and may be difficult, with wrong file removal leading to additional system errors. Additionally, some malicious programs have the capability to defend against its removal. You are urged to do this procedure in Windows Safe Mode.
Folders: C:\USERS\username\APPDATA\LOCAL\AnytimeAstrologyTooltab C:\Users\username\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\Default\Extensions\bdcnkkhncapfcngcjkmfkikanomkgnmb\
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UEFI Firmware settings goes missing
When it comes to booting an operating system on a computer, one of the most essential pieces of software you can use is the UEFI. In fact, a lot of users now prefer to use UEFI instead of BIOS. It also depends on whether the UEFI or the BIOS is supported on the motherboard. Recently, a number of users reported an issue with UEFI where they were unable to find it under the Advanced Options screen where it’s supposed to be located. The missing UEFI Firmware settings in the Advanced Options could be caused by several reasons. It is possible that the access to the UEFI menu is blocked or it could also be due to the Extra Fast Startup feature being enabled. It is also possible that the operating system is installed in Legacy mode. There are several options to try to fix this issue. You need to check if your computer supports UEFI or you could also try to disable Fast Startup or bypass the Extra Fast Startup feature. You can also use a boot to UEFI shortcut as well as check the CMOS battery.

Option 1 – Try checking if your computer supports UEFI

The first thing you have to do is to verify if your computer supports UEFI. If your computer does not support UEFI, then it’s no wonder why you don’t see the UEFI Firmware settings in the Advanced Options.

Option 2 – Try turning off Fast Startup

  • First, boot your computer in Safe Mode.
  • Once your computer is booted in Safe Mode, tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box and type in “control” to open the Control Panel.
  • Next, click on the Hardware and Sound section and click on Power Options.
  • Afterward, select the “Choose what the power buttons do” option from the left side menu pane.
  • Now click on Change settings that are currently unavailable and uncheck the entry that says, “Turn on fast startup (Recommended)”.
  • Then click on Save Changes and restart your computer and see if it has fixed the problem or not.

Option 3 – Try bypassing the Extra Fast Startup feature

As mentioned, the missing UEFI Firmware settings could be due to the Extra Fast Startup feature. To fix it, you have to disable this feature. All you have to do is tap and hold the Shift key and click on the Shutdown button from the Start button. This will boot your PC with the UEFI booting from the beginning and then use the hotkey for your motherboard to boot into the UEFI setup.

Option 4 – Try using a boot to UEFI shortcut

  • Right-click on any empty space on your Desktop and select New > Shortcut.
  • This will open a new mini window. And here, you have to type this in the text field: shutdown /r /fw
  • After that, click on Next and name the desktop shortcut and then click on Finish.
  • Next, right-click on the newly created shortcut and select Properties.
  • Click on the Advanced button and select the “Run as administrator” option.
  • Now click OK to save the changes made. Each time you execute this shortcut, your computer will automatically be booted to the UEFI Firmware Settings.

Option 5 – Try to check the CMOS battery

Another thing you can do is check the CMOS battery physically on the motherboard and see if it has to be replaced since a damaged CMOS battery can also cause the issue with the missing UEFI Firmware settings.

Option 6 – Set your computer from Legacy to UEFI

If applicable, you can try to set your computer from Legacy to UEFI to resolve the problem.
  • In the Windows Search box, type “command prompt” and from the search results that appear, right-click on Command Prompt and select the “Run as administrator” option.
  • After that, execute this command: mbr2gpt.exe /convert /allowfullOS
  • Now, wait until the process is completed since you can track its process on your screen.
  • Once it’s done, go to Settings > Update & Security > Advanced Startup options and from there, click on Restart Now. This will restart your computer and give you advanced options.
  • Next, select Troubleshoot > Advanced Options where you will see further options including System Restore, Startup Repair, Go back to the previous version, Command Prompt, System Image Recovery, and UEFI Firmware Settings.
  • Now select the UEFI Firmware Settings. This will take you to the BIOS. Boot Mode is typically available under Boot > Boot Configuration. Once you’re there, set it to UEFI and then save the changes you’ve made. After that, your computer will restart.
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Win Update enables itself after turning it off
Windows Updates are important and though it is not recommended for any user to turn it off completely, there are just some remote cases where you might have to keep it off. Such are the cases when you want to use your Windows 10 computer just for gaming and you don’t want Windows Update to interrupt it because of some messy driver update. A lot of users have in fact want to disable Windows 10 updates completely. Although you can always use the built-in option to delay Windows Updates or make Windows 10 inform you before downloading the updates, however, there are instances when Windows 10 Update may enable itself even after you turn it off or delay it. To resolve this issue, read on. You may have to disable the Windows Update Medic Service if Windows Update just keeps on starting and turning itself back on even after turning it off in Windows 10 on top of turning off the Automatic Windows Update Service or wuauserv and setting a Guest Log on. To get started, refer to the instructions prepared below.

Option 1 – Change the Log on account of the Windows Update Service

It appears that one of the major upgrades in Windows 10 has made sure that Windows 10 enables back the Windows Update Service all on its own even if the service has been set to disable by the administrator. And that’s the important thing here, Windows 10 uses admin credentials in order to ensure that it can re-enable the Windows Update Service each time it is in a disabled state. So in this fix, you can prevent the Windows Update Service from changing the account credentials used to run it.
  • Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run prompt with admin privileges.
  • Then type “services.msc” and click OK or hit Enter to open Services.
  • After that, locate the Windows Update Service from the list. Once you see it, double-click on it to open its Properties.
  • From there, click the Stop button to stop the service.
  • Next, go to the Log On tab and select the “Log on as ‘Guest” option which is the Guest account.
  • Just leave the password blank and then click Apply to save the changes made.
Note: After you made the changes, every time the Windows 10 Update Service attempts to run, you might get an error message that states, “Windows could not start the Service” or “The account specified for this service is different from the account specified for other services running in the same process”. This is what makes this fix a lot better compared to other software or batch file to keep turning off the Windows Update Service. You did not exactly disable the service but you just changed the account used to run the Windows Update service and since there is a password, the service never really works. On the other hand, Windows Defender can’t be stopped using this trick as it will keep getting an update.

Option 2 – Try to disable the Windows Update Medic Service using the Windows Update Blocker

Aside from changing the Log on account of the Windows Update Service, there is also another way you can prevent the service from enabling itself after you disable it. This alternative you can use is the Windows Update Blocker. This is a new Windows Service that was introduced in the recent Windows 10 versions. You can use this service to disable the service.
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Fix SPECIAL POOL DETECTED MEMORY CORRUPTION
If you suddenly encounter the SPECIAL POOL DETECTED MEMORY CORRUPTION Blue Screen error with a bug check value of “0x000000C1” while you are using your computer then it might be due to some problem with the hardware of your Windows 10 computer. According to security experts, it is most likely caused by the physical RAM which could be due to some error in the Realtek driver for Wireless USB 2.0 as well as corruption of the files inside the RAM, and so on. This kind of problem indicates that the driver wrote to an invalid section of the special pool. On the other hand, system files like the rtwlanu.sys or nvlddmkm.sys can also trigger the SPECIAL_POOL_DETECTED_MEMORY_CORRUPTION Blue Screen error. To resolve this Blue Screen error, you can use the options provided below as reference but before you do that, make sure to create a System Restore point first. After you have that covered, proceed to the given options below.

Option 1 – Delete the settings of the Driver Verifier Manager

  • Open the Driver Verifier Manager using the Start search.
  • After that, select or click on the “Delete existing settings” option and then click on Finish.
  • Reboot your computer and see if it fixes the Blue Screen error or not.

Option 2 – Try to update or rollback your Network driver

If you have updated the driver software as of late and you suddenly got this BSOD error, you might have to roll back the device driver – in other words, switch back to the previous working version. To do that, follow these steps:
  • Tap the Win + R keys to launch the Run window and then type in the “msc” command and hit Enter to open the Device Manager window.
  • Under the Device Manager, you will see a list of drivers. From there, look for the Network Adapters and expand it.
  • From the list of Network Drivers, look for “Realtek <Model> Wireless LAN 802.11n PCI-E NIC” and then right-click on it and select Update Driver.
  • Restart your PC and see if it helped in fixing the BSOD error.
Note: If you see any of the following entries under the Network drivers, you might want to download their latest available versions from each one of their manufacturer’s websites.
  • Realtek High-Definition (HD) Audio Driver
  • Realtek Card Reader Driver
  • Realtek Local Area Network (LAN) Driver
On the other hand, if updating the Network driver didn’t help, you can also try to roll back to its previous version.
  • Open the Device Manager again and then look for Network Drivers.
  • Next, select Realtek <Model> Wireless LAN 802.11n PCI-E NIC from the list of Network Drivers and then double click to open a new mini window.
  • After that, make sure that you’re on the Driver tab and if you are not, just navigate to it then click the Roll Back Driver button to switch back to the previous version of the Realtek driver.
  • Now restart your computer to successfully apply the changes made.

Option 3 – Try running the ChkDsk utility

You can also run the ChkDsk utility to fix the SPECIAL_POOL_DETECTED_MEMORY_CORRUPTION Blue Screen error.
  • First, open This PC and right-click on your operating system partition for Windows.
  • Next, click on Properties and navigate to the Tools tab.
  • Then click on Check under the Error Checking section.
  • After that, a new mini window will be opened and from there click on Scan drive and let it scan your disk drive partition for any errors and then restart your computer.

Option 4 – Use the Windows Memory Diagnostics

Since the problem has something to do with the physical RAM, you need to use Windows Memory Diagnostics. To run it, refer to these steps:
  • Tap the Win + R keys to open Run and type exe and hit Enter to open the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool.
  • After that, it will give two options such as:
    • Restart now and check for problems (Recommended)
    • Check for problems the next time I start my computer
  • Once your computer has restarted, perform a basic scan or you could also go for the “Advanced” options such as “Test mix” or “Pass count”. Simply tap the F10 key to start the test.
Note: After you select the option, your PC will restart and check for memory-based issues. If it finds any issues, it will automatically fix them.

Option 5 – Run the Blue Screen Troubleshooter

The Blue Screen troubleshooter is a built-in tool in Windows 10 that helps users in fixing BSOD errors like SPECIAL_POOL_DETECTED_MEMORY_CORRUPTION. It can be found in the Settings Troubleshooters page. To use it, refer to these steps:
  • Tap the Win + I keys to open the Settings panel.
  • Then go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
  • From there, look for the option called “Blue Screen” on your right-hand side and then click the “Run the troubleshooter” button to run the Blue Screen Troubleshooter and then follow the next on-screen options. Note that you might have to boot your PC into Safe Mode.
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Fixing To use System Restore you must ...
There are cases when you want to undo some changes you’ve made to your computer and to do that you have to perform the System Restore task. However, if you encounter an error that states “To use System Restore you must specify which Windows installation to restore”, when doing so, read on as this post will help you fix the problem. This kind of error in System Restore could be due to corrupted files in the system. There are also situations where you are not able to boot up once you encounter this error which could be a big problem. On the other hand, this error might have something to do with corrupted BCD files. Whatever the cause is, here are some potential fixes you have to try.

Option 1 – Try to run System File Checker offline

Like pointed out, since the error might be due to corrupted system files, you can try to run System File Checker offline. How? Refer to these steps:
  • You need to go to the Advanced Startup Options and from there select Troubleshoot.
  • Next, select the Advanced Options and then Command Prompt.
  • After opening Command Prompt, type the commands given below and tap Enter right after you type each one of them.
    • Cd /
    • Dir
  • If you can see the “Users” folder, that is your system’s drive. However, if you can’t see it, you can just change the drive-by assigning “D” as its alphabet volume.
  • Then execute this command where “C” is the system drive: sfc /scannow /offbootdir=C: /offwindir=C:Windows
  • Now repeat the given steps sequentially.

Option 2 – Try to run DISM tool

You can also run the DISM tool to repair the potentially corrupted system image. First, you have to check the health of the system like checking the integrity of the system files and Windows services. To run DISM, follow the given steps below sequentially.
  • Open Command Prompt from the Advanced Startup options.
  • After that, execute this command where “C:” is the system volume: DISM /Image:C:Windows /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /Source:C:WindowsWinSxS
  • If you encounter an error after executing the given command, insert the Windows USB or DVD and then execute this next command where “E:” is the USB or DVD drive: DISM /Image:C:Windows /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /Source:esd:E:SourcesInstall.esd:1 /limitaccess
  • In some cases, “install.esd” would be “install.wim” and in such case, you have to modify and execute this command: DISM /Image:C:Windows /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /Source:wim:E:SourcesInstall.wim /limitaccess

Option 3 – Try to repair corrupted BCD

As mentioned, the error could also be due to corruption in BCD, and to fix it, you can use Bootrec.exe – a built-in command-line tool used to troubleshot issues related to boot up and Windows Startup. Before you run this tool, make sure that you have inserted a bootable USB or DVD into your computer. Once you have that covered, follow these steps:
  • You need to go to the Advanced Startup Options.
  • Then click on Troubleshoot.
  • Next, select the Advanced Options and then Command Prompt.
  • Once Command Prompt has been pulled up, enter each one of the following commands and in the sequence that they are given to rebuild BCD files and repair MBR files:
    • Bootrec /Fixmbr
    • Bootrec /FixBoot
  • After you execute the commands given above, you should see a confirmation message that says, “The operation completed successfully”.
  • Now type the “Bootrec /RebuildBCD” command to rebuild BCD.
  • Finally, close Command Prompt and then restart your computer to successfully apply the changes made.

Option 4 – Try to run the Automatic Repair Utility

You might also want to use Automatic Repair in fixing the error. To do so, follow the steps below.
  • You can start by creating and booting from a bootable Windows 10 USB Stick.
  • After that, click on Repair your computer located in the bottom left corner when you are on the initial Windows Startup screen.
  • Next, click on Troubleshoot, and then on the other screen, click the Startup Repair option.
  • Now select the operating system you want to repair. Once you do that, it will start to repair your operating system. Wait until the process is completed and then check if the problem’s now fixed.

Option 5 – Try to use the Windows Recovery Environment

If the four options given above didn’t help fix the problem, you could try running Windows Repair and a Windows bootable USB or DVD.
  • First, insert the bootable USB or DVD and boot into it, and select the “Repair your computer” option.
  • Next, once you see the manufacturer logo on your computer, tap the key to enter into Windows Recovery Environment.
  • After that, change the Boot sequence to DVD drive under the UEFI Firmware settings and restart your computer.
  • Once your computer has restarted, select the boot order and make changes accordingly as displayed in the BIOS.

Option 6 – Try running System Restore in Advanced Startup Options

Since you probably can’t boot into your Windows 10 computer, you can try to run System Restore again in the Advanced Startup Options.
  • Boot your computer into the Advanced Startup Options screen.
  • From there, you will see some options to troubleshoot when you can’t log in to Windows in the usual way.
  • Now select Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Command Prompt.
  • After that, type “exe /OFFLINE:C:Windows” and hit Enter to execute the command which will start the System Restore process.
Note: You need to replace “C” with the drive where Windows Installation is located.
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Fix PNP_DETECTED_FATAL_ERROR in Windows
If you suddenly encounter a PNP_DETECTED_FATAL_ERROR Blue Screen error, then this post can help you out. The PNP_DETECTED_FATAL_ERROR BSOD usually occurs when any new hardware that is mostly the Plug and Play type is attached. In such cases, when the device is plugged, and the driver for that device crashes or isn’t found or is not compatible, you will most likely encounter this particular BSOD error. There are several error codes that come under this category, some of them are 0x000000CA (0x01681690, 0xEA96A7BE, 0x938A81AD, 0xF8362881. This BSOD error can also occur at any time. However, the only constant thing here is when you plug a PNP device like earphones, microphones, USB drives, and many more. The PNP_DETECTED_FATAL_ERROR bug check has a value of 0x000000CA which indicates that the Plug and Play Manager encountered some severe error which is most likely have something to do with a problematic Plug and Play driver. To fix this error, here are some possible solutions that could help.

Option 1 – Run the Blue Screen Troubleshooter

The Blue Screen troubleshooter is a built-in tool in Windows 10 that helps users in fixing BSOD errors like PNP_DETECTED_FATAL_ERROR Blue Screen error. It can be found on the Settings Troubleshooters page. To use it, refer to these steps:
  • Tap the Win + I keys to open the Settings panel.
  • Then go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
  • From there, look for the option called “Blue Screen” on your right-hand side and then click the “Run the troubleshooter” button to run the Blue Screen Troubleshooter and then follow the next on-screen options. Note that you might have to boot your PC into Safe Mode.

Option 2 – Try disabling or removing newly installed hardware

In this option, you will have to disable or remove the hardware you’ve just installed recently since external devices could be the one that’s causing the Blue Screen of Death error to appear. To do that, just disconnect any external device that’s connected to your computer physically and then check if it fixes the PNP_DETECTED_FATAL_ERROR Blue Screen error.

Option 3 – Try disabling BIOS Memory options namely Caching Shadowing

Disabling the BIOS Memory options such as Caching and Shadowing can help you in fixing the PNP_DETECTED_FATAL_ERROR Blue Screen error. All you have to do is enter the BIOS first and then use the Arrow and Enter keys to select your choices. And if you can’t seem to find it, look for specific instructions from your OEM or you could also look out for instructions from the manufacturer of your motherboard.

Option 4 – Try to run the CHKDSK utility

Running the CHKDSK utility might also help you resolve the PNP_DETECTED_FATAL_ERROR Blue Screen error. If your hard drive has issues with integrity, the update will really fail as the system will think that it’s not healthy and that’s where the CHKDSK utility comes in. The CHKDSK utility repairs hard drive errors that might be causing the problem.
  • Open Command Prompt with admin privileges.
  • After opening Command Prompt, execute the following command and hit Enter:
chkdsk /f /r
  • Wait for the process to be completed and then restart your computer.

Option 5 – Try to uninstall programs you’ve installed recently

Chances are, some programs that you just installed might be the one that’s causing the BSOD error. Thus, you need to uninstall the program to resolve the problem.
  • In the search box, type in “control” and then click on Control Panel (desktop app) among the search results.
  • After that, select Programs and Features from the list which will give you a list of all the programs installed on your computer.
  • From there, look for the concerned program and select it and then uninstall it.

Option 6 – Update the Device drivers

  • Tap the Win + R keys to launch Run.
  • Type in devmgmt.msc into the box and tap Enter or click OK to open the Device Manager.
  • After that, a list of device drivers will be displayed. Look for the device driver you and then select either “Update driver” or “Uninstall device”. And if you find any “Unknown device”, you need to update it as well.
  • Select the “Search automatically for updated driver software” option and then follow the instructions to complete the process.
  • If you have chosen to uninstall the driver, follow the screen options to complete the process and then restart your PC.
  • Connect the device and Scan for hardware changes – you can see this option under Device Manager > Action.

Option 7 – Perform a System Restore

Performing System Restore might help you in fixing the PNP_DETECTED_FATAL_ERROR Blue Screen error. You can do this option either by booting into Safe Mode or in System Restore. If you are already in the Advanced Startup Options, just directly select System Restore and proceed with the next steps. And if you have just booted your PC into Safe Mode, refer to the steps below.
  • Tap 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.
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