windows – Fixable stuff https://fixablestuff.com Find Workable Fixes Thu, 24 Nov 2022 05:34:10 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.11 /wp-content/uploads/2020/10/favicon-1-75x75.png windows – Fixable stuff https://fixablestuff.com 32 32 How to get to BIOS on an MSI motherboard https://fixablestuff.com/bios-msi-motherboard/ /bios-msi-motherboard/#respond Thu, 24 Nov 2022 01:22:25 +0000 https://fixablestuff.com/?p=444 Read more]]> The MSI motherboard BIOS controls the boot process while your computer boots up. The process is known as POST or Power On Self Test, in this process the BIOS controlling unit will check for CPU, RAM, POWER, and other device attachments such as Mouse, Keyboard, Printer, and joysticks. When the system is unable to boot to the Windows OS, it is considered as the boot failure or the BIOS is unable to detect the boot device and your computer won’t be able to POST, the first thing you should check is the BIOS Settings on your Computer. This way you can ensure that all the devices are connected correctly and there is no hardware failure.

MSI is a well-known name in the Motherboards market. The company has been around for more than 20 years. They offer all sorts of products from Laptops and desktops to High-end Graphics cards, Motherboards, and Monitors. MSI Motherboard is a well-known motherboard among gamers. It offers high-end performance and Superb build quality.  Their products are specially designed for games and you will find almost every gaming-related product on their official website.

Below we are writing a detailed guide for you to easily access the BIOS settings on MSI Motherboard.

How to get to MSI Motherboard’s BIOS Settings

There are two methods to enter into the MSI BIOS settings. The first method is for people who have not set the password while the second one will teach you to enter the MSI BIOS settings with a password.

How to Enter MSI BIOS with No Password

Step 1

Restart your computer and press the “DEL” key while the system is booting up to enter the BIOS Settings on the MSI Motherboard. In some cases, you need to use the F2 key instead of the DEL key to enter the BIOS setup.

You have to make this process as quick as possible as Windows 10 has a good boot-up speed because of which you might miss your chance of entering the BIOS settings. If the process is successful, the Computer will blink and restart again to enter into the BIOS Setting to perform POST. If you see an MSI Logo appearing on your screen then press the “Tab” key on your keyboard to enter the MSI BIOS Setting.

Step 2

Visit MSI.com and enter the model name in the search box given at the top-right corner. for example, if you are using the MEG Z490 GODLIKE motherboard then type “MEG Z490 GODLIKE” without quotes and hit enter.

msi official website

Step 3

Click on the Manual button below the product description. On the next screen, select your preferred language and download the Manual on your Computer.

download MSI BIOS Manual

Step 4

Follow the instructions given in the manual to make your changes. Once done, click on the Save Changes and Exit button on the bios screen to exit it.

How to Enter MSI BIOS which has Password

Setting up an administrative password will not only secure your Computer but will also help you to Lock your BIOS screen and restrict anyone from entering it. However, if you are struggling to enter the BIOS setup which has Password enabled, follow these steps

Step 1

Restart your computer and press the DEL key as the system is booting up to enter the MSI BIOS settings. Sometimes, you might have to use the F2 key to enter the BIOS Setup.

If you see the MSI Logo appearing on your screen, press the tab key and then press the DEL Key.

Step 2

It will ask you to Enter the Password. Put your Administrator password and hit the “Enter Key” to open MSI BIOS Settings for password enabled system. If the password is incorrect, the system will notify you about it, Try entering the correct password to enter successfully.

Step 3

Visit the official website of msi.com and enter your product name in the search box. Click on the manual button below the product description on the search results page. On the following window, select the manual language and download it on your computer. Follow the instructions given in the manual to successfully apply the changes.

Step 4

Finally, hit the Save Changes and Exit button and enter into your Windows Operating system to check if the changes are applied.

How to Update MSI Motherboard BIOS

If you are facing any glitches or errors while operating the MSI motherboard then it is recommended to update the BIOS on your MSI Motherboard to the latest version. This will ensure that all the previous bugs and errors are fixed and it will also provide you with the latest security patch.

The process of updating the MSI motherboard BIOS is pretty simple and just requires a few steps. However, for a newbie, it might not be an easy task and thus this guide is your savior. Please follow the steps given below to successfully update the BIOS on your MSI motherboard.

Step 1: Visit the official website or MSI using this link and click the search box in the right-hand corner. Type your motherboard model name and number and hit Enter. From the available search results, locate your BIOS model and click the download button.

download msi bios update

Step 2: On the following window, Scroll down to “Drivers and Downloads“, Locate your required bios file and hit the download button to start downloading the update.

msi bios download button

Step 3: Once the BIOS update file is downloaded on your computer. Visit the downloads folder, right-click on the zip file and select the “Extract zip file” option. When asked for the “Select the destination and extract files” option, click the browse button and select your USB flash drive as the destination and hit the extract button. Finally, Remove the USB Flash drive and restart your computer.

Step 4: Replug the USB flash drive and start your computer. To enter the BIOS menu, keep hitting the DELETE button on the restart screen until you see the BIOS menu.

Step 5: On the BIOS menu page, click the M-Flash option from the left side menu and click the “Yes” button when prompted.

msi bios update using m flash

Step 6: Under the “BIOS boot function” select the USB drive you just inserted and from the files option select the extracted BIOS update file click the “Yes” button to start the BIOS update.

select USB flash drive and BIOS update file

Step 7: Wait until the update is complete, your PC will restart automatically once the process is completed.

Final Words!

If you forgot your MSI BIOS administrator password then you have to unscrew your laptop/ Computer. By using the MSI Motherboard manual, locate jumper JBAT1 on your motherboard. remove the jumper from pin 1 and 2 and place it on jumper 2 and 3, Wait for at least half a minute and then change it back again to pin 1 and pin 2. This will reset the BIOS to default factory settings where the password will be removed.

Please let us know if you have any questions regarding the MSI Motherboard BIOS settings by commenting.

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How to Fix “Printer Driver is Unavailable” on Windows https://fixablestuff.com/printer-driver-is-unavailable/ /printer-driver-is-unavailable/#respond Sat, 28 Nov 2020 06:06:24 +0000 https://fixablestuff.com/?p=524 Read more]]> You might encounter an error saying “Printer driver is unavailable”. The issue is common with the HP Printers.  This is because, either the Printer drivers installed on your Computer are Corrupt, outdated, or not compatible. If you have turned off the automatic updates feature on Windows, You might also see the same error as Windows won’t be able to download the updates automatically and it might further require manual input from the user.

If you encountered this error, You won’t be able to print any file until you resolve it. In this article, We will show you the steps to fix this error on Windows.

What are Printer Drivers?

Drivers are used to establishing a connection between your Hardware component and operating system. It lets your Operating system to communicate with the device. In other words, The application calls the functions performed by the operating system and the operating system calls the functions performed by the device using the drivers.

Just like your Mouse, Keyword, and Networking device, your printer also has drivers that help your operating system to communicate with the external device. These drivers are crucial for a smooth and uninterrupted link between both the devices. If your drivers are corrupt, Outdated, or faces any other issue, they won’t perform well, thus showing you the error like “Printer is not available” or “Printer driver is unavailable” on your Windows system.

Fixing the Printer Driver is Unavailable Error

The best way to fix this error is to determine the root cause and perform troubleshooting methods accordingly. To start with, We will fix the check for the connection between the printer and your System, if the connection is right then we will move on to updating the drivers or perform other advanced troubleshooting methods.

Below are a few such methods that can help you to get rid of the Printer driver is an unavailable issue on your Computer.

Method 1: Check your Connection

The very first step is to determine if the connection between your computer and printer is successfully established and your computer is able to detect your printer as an output device. This can be done by unplugging your Printer from your computer completely and then plugging it back in.

Also, check for twisted or broken wires and replace them if needed. Check the power socket for your printer and see if it’s able to get an uninterrupted power supply.

Method 2: Uninstall the Printer Drivers

If your connections are working then you should look for another option. In this method, we will first uninstall the Printer drivers and other supporting programs and install the default drivers from your printer. This technique is known to solve the issue of broken or corrupt Printer drivers thus resolving the “Printer driver is unavailable” error.

Follow these steps to uninstall the printer drivers and install the default drivers.

Step #1: Click the Windows start menu option and type ‘Control Panel’, select the first option that appears. From the top option, select View By: Large icons to see the Drivers and printers option, click it.

Step #2: Right-click the printer name and select “Remove Device”.

Step #3: Head back to the Control Panel option and click “Device Manager“.

Step #4: Scroll through the list and locate “Print queues”, click the small arrow icon to expand the option. Right-click on your printer name and select Uninstall Device.

Step #5: Hit the “Windows + R” key on your keyboard to launch the Run Dialog box and type “aapwiz.cpl” in the dialog box. Here you will find all the applications listed, Right-click on the printer name and select “Uninstall”.

Step #6: Finally, Disconnect your printer, Remove all the connections, if you are using a wireless printer then disconnect it from your router, otherwise remove the USB cable connected to your System.

Step #7: Wait for at least 10-15 minutes, plug everything back and wait until your system detects and installs the drivers automatically on your Windows 10 computer.

Method 3: Reinstall latest Drivers

As we have already said, If you have turned-off your Automatic Windows update feature, the system won’t be able to install any updates including that of driver updates, Thus, security patches, Corrupt or broken code fixes won’t be installed on your computer. However, you can manually update your drivers and fix this issue. Follow these steps

Step 1: Go to the device manager option by clicking the Windows + R key on your PC and type “devmgmt.msc” in the Run Dialog Box.

Step 2: Navigate through the available Hardware drivers and click on the small arrow in front of the print queues option.

Step 3: Right-click on your printer name and select “Update Driver” from the List.

Step 4: Finally, On the following popup screen, click the first option that says “Search automatically for the updated driver software” and follow the steps to complete the updated driver’s installation process.

Step 5: Once the drivers are installed, the system will notify you about the same. Restart your computer and try connecting your printer again and see if the “Printer driver is unavailable” error is solved.

Method 4: Update your Windows Operating System

Windows updates are known to be annoying and require a lot of time and data to be installed. Unfortunately, it is the only way to keep your system up to date. Updates are also required to download the patch files for security issues, Broken or corrupt codes, Outdated system Apps, and drivers. These updates are also known to add extra features and functionality, UI Changes, and other OS-related upgrades.

If you have turned off the automatic update feature on Windows or you haven’t installed any update in recent times, We recommend you to update it to solve the Printer driver or other system-specified issues.

Here are the steps to update windows 10 manually

  1. Click the Start bar and type “Settings”.
  2. From the left pane, select Update & Security.
  3. Under “Windows update“, Click on the “Check for updates” button.
  4. If any update is available, Windows will automatically download and install it on your computer.
  5. Additional Restart might be required after the updates are installed.

Conclusion

That’s it! By using the given troubleshooting methods, You can easily solve the “Printer driver is unavailable” error on your Windows 10 computer. If you find it difficult to download or install the updates or don’t want to get into technical stuff, you can try third-party Driver updater software like Auslogics.

Please let us know if you face any different issues or have any questions or queries regarding the Printer technical errors by commenting down.

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How to Disable/ Turn-Off Avast Antivirus – Windows and Mac https://fixablestuff.com/disable-turn-off-avast/ /disable-turn-off-avast/#respond Wed, 18 Nov 2020 04:23:28 +0000 https://fixablestuff.com/?p=596 Read more]]> Avast might block certain apps and software including Drivers from installing on your computer. the best way to avoid this issue, you can disable Avast temporarily on your Windows or Mac. Using this way, you can ensure the safety of your system and also download or install your favorite program. If you are one of the Avast users, Follow this guide to learn about different ways to disable the antivirus program temporarily.

Avast is one of the widely used antivirus programs in the World. It offers cross-platform support and you can use this app on almost any platform including Windows, Mac, Android. It helps you protect your local files, folders, programs from getting infected with viruses. It also offers a total security package that covers internet protection and blocking malicious URL. The antivirus has free as well as paid plans and you can switch between them according to your usage. Unfortunately, the program is also known for blocking many activities such as installing programs, Drivers, Visiting certain websites, etc. To overcome this issue, you can turn off avast for some time until your activity is done.

Reasons for Disabling Avast Antivirus

Avast is responsible for many security-related activities running on your computer. It hosts different components such as Web Shield, Email Shield, and File Shield. These components work in Real-time to secure your computer instantly if any threat is detected.

Unfortunately, due to strict policies, Avast blocks certain websites and most of the software from being installed on your system. Sometimes, it might also block a certain part of the program you are trying to install, This results in broken or corrupt installation. To overcome these issues, We need to turn off Avast.

How to Disable Avast on Windows

Avast offers you an easy option to disable or turn-off the antivirus program for a few minutes or until the next restart. This enables you to install your favorite software or launch a video program without any warnings. There are many Windows software companies that always recommend the users to turn off the antivirus program to ensure the full installation of the service.

To Disable Avast, Click the Avast icon in the Windows taskbar and select Avast Shield Control. Choose the time for which you want to disable the program and finally click ok when asked for confirmation.

Below are the steps to temporarily disable Avast antivirus on Windows 7/8/10.

Step 1

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Java Update checker – Auto Update/Disable Java Updater https://fixablestuff.com/java-update-checker/ /java-update-checker/#respond Mon, 16 Nov 2020 05:55:37 +0000 https://fixablestuff.com/?p=432 Read more]]> Java offers you an excellent option to set Multiple Java version parameters for handling the java applets that run on your computer. However, if the Java auto-updater shows you a message like “A new version of Java is ready to be installed” and is constantly hammering you with multiple java updates, it becomes annoying while working on some important stuff on your computer. then there are various tools that Java offers in order to disable the auto-update feature. Below we are going to discuss everything you need to know about the Java Update Checker.

Java is a programming language that is used on almost every platform today. It offers the ability to develop complex and advanced apps for Windows and Android. Most of the High-end software or apps that we use today are mostly developed in Java.

You require various Java applets in order to run different applications on your computer. These applets help programs to run smoothly and use different libraries of Java. However, it requires your computer to constantly update all the files related to Java ensuring your system is compatible with all Latest Java Versions.

What is a Java Update Checker?

Java update checker is a tool designed by Oracle that determines which Java script version is required on your computer and installs it on your computer. It helps you to run any type of software on your computer by constantly keeping your libraries and java versions updated. If there is a broken or corrupt code in your java applet, this tool can fix it by downloading and replacing it with a patched copy.

This tool is important for apps to perform smoothly and seamlessly on your computer. visit the official website of java to get more information on Java Update Checker

How to Enable Java Update Checker?

As this tool is crucial for running software on your computer, by default, it is enabled for checking updates on your system. There is no need to enable or activate it and this tool can work in the background without any manual input. However, for downloading updates, it might ask you for confirmation.

If it rarely asks you for confirmation before downloading any update then you should keep it enabled or running. However, if it constantly interrupts you in your work or while doing something on your computer then you can follow the below-given steps to disable Java Update Checker

How to Disable Java update checker?

Oracle, the company behind Java, has recommended keeping the Auto-update feature enabled on your computer. These updates contain various security fixes, Broken code patches, and important system-related updates. If you miss any of the updates, you can get yourself or your system into trouble and hackers can easily use the loophole to attack your computer and gain valuable information and files. If you want to disable the Java auto-update checker, follow these steps.

  1. Click on the Windows start bar and type “File Explorer”.
  2. Go to the “C” Drive and then open the Program Files (x86) or Program Files (x64) folder.
  3. If the folders are hidden then Right-click on the top section of your File Explorer tab and select Properties>> Show Hidden Files/folders.
  4. Inside the Program Files folder, go to Java >> jre7 >> bin.
  5. Look for the “javacpl.exe” file, right-click it and select “Run as Administrator”. Enter your system password if required.
  6. Head over to the “Update” tab on the Java Control Panel and uncheck the box which says “Check for Updates Automatically”.
  7. Finally, click on the OK button and reboot your system to apply the changes.

That’s it! You have successfully disabled the java auto-update checker. Even though after disabling the auto-update checker, you should still check for the updates once a month to keep your system up to date.

How to manually check for Java Updates?

Even though you have disabled the Java auto-updates checker on your computer, you can still update it manually or check for the latest version available.

Follow these steps to manually update Java on your PC

Step 1: Open the start menu on your system and type “Control Panel“.

Step 2: Open the Java Control Panel by clicking on the “Java” icon.

Step 3: Under the “General” tab, click on the “About” button to know about the version of installed Java software.

Step 4: In the Java-Applet Runtime Settings,  Click Java >> View. Here you can see the latest available version of Java software. Note the Version code and compare it with the previously seen version.

Step 5: If both the code matches, your system is up to date. Otherwise, download and install the update on your Computer.

Final Words!

If it is not necessary then don’t disable the Java auto-update checker tool. This way you can keep your system secure, efficient, and free of any security or programming related bug. Even if you disable the auto-update checker on your system, it is recommended to check for updates at least once a month.

Please let us know if you have any questions or comments regarding the Java Auto-updater.

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How to Find Ram Type, Size and Speed https://fixablestuff.com/ram-type-size-speed/ /ram-type-size-speed/#respond Thu, 05 Nov 2020 03:47:59 +0000 https://fixablestuff.com/?p=517 Read more]]>

Finding the RAM type is easy, you don’t need to look into any hardware component to determine your RAM type or Size. In this article, We will take you through a guide where you will learn how to find RAM type, Size, and Speed on your PC.

RAM is what determines the smooth behavior of your system. If you have a small RAM memory size and want to run Professional Applications such as Adobe Illustrator, Final Cut Pro, or play high-end games then you might find it hard. There will be times when your computer will freeze for few minutes or sometimes even for few hours, Also the applications might malfunction and exit without proper warning, due to the low RAM you might face these and several such issues. The best way to deal with this is to determine various factors of your existing RAM and check if you need an upgrade. Even if you buy the best laptop under 800 bucks, you will need to find out whether it has a sufficient amount of RAM for your needs. Read on to learn how to check RAM details in Windows 10.

What is RAM?

Random Access Memory (RAM) is also known as the primary memory on your Computer. This is a fast memory type that is responsible for running Apps, Programs, and other daily tasks on your PC. RAM holds data for the short term and then transfers it to the secondary memory type i.e. ROM or your Hard-Drive.

The More RAM you have, the smoother and fast your system will perform. Also with more RAM, You can play High-end games, Work on Professional software, Using multiple apps simultaneously, Avoid lagging or freezing of your Computer, get rid of computer overheating issues.

If you are struggling with less RAM issues on your computer and thinking of upgrading it? Well, first you should check and see if you have an option to upgrade it. There are many laptops where the RAM is embedded into the motherboard making it impossible to upgrade. However, some new-aged laptops and Almost all Desktop PCs have the upgrade friendly Hardware and you can install multiple RAMs in a single PC.

What Kind of RAM do I have?

There are mainly two types of RAM available for your PC. One is DDR3 and the other is DDR4. the biggest difference between these two is their ability to perform based on various factors. You can not use DDR3 RAM in a DDR4 RAM slot so please be sure to check your RAM type before choosing any upgrade option.

DDR3 Vs DDR4 RAM

Although both the RAM is used on almost all the High-end computers, The difference can easily be detected through their Pins. DDR4 RAM uses a 288-pin connector, while the DDR3 uses a 240-pin Connector.

DDR4 RAM is known to transfer Data at high speed when compared to DDR3, another major difference is between the clock speed of both the RAM. The Clock speed determines the rate at which the RAM can read and write data. The clock speed number denoted the number of cycles per second the RAM can perform, represented in megahertz.

How much RAM do you have in Windows 10?

Earlier, It used to be very difficult to obtain any information about your RAM. also the operating system used to give limited knowledge. However, over time, it has upgraded, and now you can get multiple options to see information about your RAM.

Here are the basic steps to get insights on your RAM in Windows 10.

  1. Click the Windows search bar, type ‘System’ settings.
  2. Click the first option that appears.
  3. Scroll down and click the About option
  4. Finally, look for the information about your RAM.

If you need to see some advanced information then continue with this guide.

How to View RAM type, Size, Speed, and manufacturer in Windows 10

The above step is only useful to get basic information about your RAM. However, If you want to know the RAM type, Clock speed, Memory, Memory Type, or manufacturer, you have to access this information through the Command prompt on Windows 10.

Follow these steps to explorer advance RAM information on Windows.

Step 1

Go to the windows search bar and type “Run” to open the Run dialog box, type “CMD” and hit enter. You can also directly type in the word “Command prompt” in the Windows Search bar and open the Windows Command Prompt.

Step 2

Type the following command inside the command line and hit enter – wmic MemoryChip get MemoryType, Capacity, Name, Manufacturer, Configuredclockspeed, DeviceLocator, FormFactor, Serialnumber, Speed

Step 3

If you need even more information then use this alias – ConfiguredVoltage, DataWidth, MaxVoltage, CreationClassName, InterleavePosition.

How to View your RAM in Windows 10 using third-party software

If you don’t want to follow the above-mentioned steps and just need a simple option to manage your RAM, Download the CPU-Z software on your Windows 10.

type of ram in windows 10

Here are the steps to follow-

Step #1: Go to the official website of CPU-Z and download the copy for Windows 10.

Step #2: Once the file is completely downloaded on your system, double-click the setup file and use the Setup wizard to complete the installation process.

Step #3: Next, launch the Software and use the tab navigation menu, and select the “Memory” option.

Step #4: Under the General Memory option, you will find your RAM Type (DDR, DDR2, DDR3, DDR4), and RAM Size. Whereas in the timing option, you will find DRAM Frequency, Cycle time, and Command Rate.

How to Find your RAM type on Mac?

Finding your system information is pretty simple and straightforward when it comes to the Apple device. Unlike Windows, You can simply grab your System information using these simple steps.

Step 1

Click on the “Apple Logo” located on the Topbar and select “About This Mac”.

As with everything Apple, the process for finding basic details about your hardware is super-simple: just click the “Apple logo” and select “About This Mac.” Your simplistic RAM information gets displayed in the “Overview” tab.

find ram type mac

Step 2

To check the real-time memory usage on Mac. use the Spotlight search and type “Activity Monitor”. Click the first option and check the real-time data.

activity monitor

Final Words!

These are the ways to find your RAM Type, Size, and clock speed on Windows as well as Mac. Once you have determined your RAM components and specifications, You can find similar specifications with upgraded options on various e-commerce websites to upgrade your RAM to higher memory.

If you have any questions then feel free to ask them in the comments section below.

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How to troubleshoot a Flickering screen on my Laptop https://fixablestuff.com/laptop-screen-flickering/ /laptop-screen-flickering/#respond Mon, 02 Nov 2020 03:15:18 +0000 https://fixablestuff.com/?p=469 Read more]]>

Software problems are easy to troubleshoot than hardware problems. Flickering screen on your laptop is one such issue that might cause you a lot of trouble and sometimes screen replacement if untreated. If you are experiencing screen flickering for the first time, there are chances that the issue is minor and can easily be removed with some basic troubleshooting techniques. In this article, we will guide you through all the necessary steps required to resolve your Laptop Screen flickering issue.

Let it be an office or your Home Computer, They are useful in many ways. We can finish our work in a given time, Watch our Favorite Netflix movie, Create presentations, Read documents, etc. A laptop is a portable version of the PC. we can carry it along with us anywhere without worrying about the big cabinet or big screens. A Laptop is designed to fit inside a normal backpack or even you can carry it in your hand. However, these portable devices sometimes create a big mess such as a flickering screen. These types of problems on your laptop can hurt your Productivity. If these issues are untreated, It can spread across your screen and might damage it.

What causes screen flickering on my Laptop?

There are three main types of screen flickering takes place. The Brief flickering, occasional, and persistence. If you could figure out the type of flickering you are experiencing, you can find the solution more quickly. However, before proceeding further, let’s check if the Flickering problem is caused due to an app or is it a display issue.

For this, we are going to use the Task Manager option in Windows.

  1. Press “CTRL + ALT + DEL” on your Windows PC, Select the option which says “Task Manager”
  2. Check if the Task Manager is flickering.
  3. If the task manager is stable, The problem lies with your software, try exiting a few apps through the task manager and check if the issue gets resolved.
  4. If the Task Manager is flickering, the problem is with your display. Continue reading this guide to find a fix.

Below are the steps to get rid of screen flickering due to App compatibility or outdated display drivers.

Stop your Screen from Flickering

1. App Compatibility

If you have recently installed an app on your computer. We suggest you remove it and check if the problem gets solved. iCloud, Photoshop, IDT audio are among others that are known to cause screen flickering in Windows 10.

There are High-end games that can also cause the same error on your PC. Below we are mentioning the steps to remove the software from your Windows computer.

  1. Right-click on the Start menu and select “Control Panel”.
  2. Go to Programs >> Programs and features.
  3. look for the suspicious app, click on it.
  4. Click the Uninstall button.
  5. Follow the uninstall wizard to completely remove that app.
  6. Restart your computer and check if the problem is resolved.

2. Outdated Display Drivers

Display drivers are another main cause for your laptop screen to flicker. Windows updates are known to download and install these drivers automatically. These updates contain security fixes, Bug fixes, and patches. Outdated display drivers can lead to poor screen resolution, glitches, and screen flickering. If you have turned off the automatic update feature on your Windows, these drivers won’t be updated and an outdated driver can lead to this issue. 

If the issue is with your Display Drivers, we can solve it by updating it. However, before proceeding, we have to start windows in Safe mode and then uninstall/ Reinstall the drivers.

Follow these steps.

boot Windows in Safe mode

  1. Click the windows search bar and type “Settings”. click on the PC Settings option.
  2. From the left pane, select “Updates & Security“.
  3. Select “Recovery” from the left panel.
  4. Look for Advanced Startup and select Restart Now. upon restarting, you will see a blue screen with different boot options.
  5. Click the “Advanced Options”, select Startup Settings >> Restart.
  6. Upon system reboot, select the “Enable Safe Mode” option. For this, you have to use the number and function keys. For example, if the Enable safe mode option is at 4th position, click the number 4 key on your keyboard and continue.

Uninstall existing display drivers.

Step 1: Right-click on the Windows taskbar and select “Device Manager”.

Step 2: Scroll through the options to look for Display adapters. Click the small arrow icon to expand the section.

Step 3: Select the name of your current display adapter and Right-click it.

Step 4: Select the “Uninstall device” option from the menu.

Step 5: Upon confirmation, check the box which says delete the driver software for this device and restart your system.
Reinstall Display drivers on your Windows laptop to get rid of the flickering screen.

Step 1: boot your Windows laptop in Power-user mode.

Step 2: Hit the windows search bar and type “update & Security”. Click the option.

Step 3: Under “Windows update”, select “Check for updates”. Windows will automatically download and install the latest display driver on your laptop.

3. Change Refresh Rate

A wrong display rate configuration can lead to the screen flickering issue on your computer. The Refresh rate is a measurement of how many times the screen redraws in one second. It should match the capabilities of your monitor. 

When the refresh rate is laggy, you will see the screen flickering effect. To solve this issue we have to change the screen refresh rate.
Step 1: Right-click the Desktop and select “Screen Resolution”.
Step 2: Click “Advanced Settings” and then monitor.
Step 3: Choose a higher refresh rate from the set of options.

4. Replace the screen

If none of the given solutions work for you, It might not be the software issue and you might have to take it to an expert where he can advance diagnose your system and look for faults. A Technician will further look into the laptop screen flickering issue and check for hardware failure or other stuff that might be causing this problem. In the worst condition, the technician will ask you for a screen replacement.

Make sure to visit a certified technician to diagnose your System and get rid of flickering screen.

Final Words!

If the screen flickering issue is new to you, there are chances that it might go away on its own by a simple restart or by performing basic troubleshooting methods that are given above. If you are still facing the same issue, you can let us know by commenting down.

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How to Edit DDS Files in GIMP https://fixablestuff.com/edit-dds-files-gimp/ /edit-dds-files-gimp/#respond Sun, 01 Nov 2020 02:26:51 +0000 https://fixablestuff.com/?p=457 Read more]]> GIMP is known for providing many features and functionality to edit photos. One of the main features of GIMP is its ability to support DDS or DirectDraw Surface format. The format is mainly used for the DirectX-compatible textures. Below we are listing available ways to edit DDS files in GIMP.

DDS files are often used to texture game environments, Modes, and components. This file format isn’t compatible with all the Image editing Apps. Softwares like Photoshop and Paint might crash while you try to edit the DDS file. However, there are other tools that can make this task very easy and hassle-free. Using GIMP, you can easily open this file format and perform different actions on the DDS image. GIMP offers you tools like a paintbrush, pencil, text editor, Shapes, Textures, Gradient, Paint bucket. You can use these tools to perform various actions on the DDS file.

Editing a DDS File in GIMP

GIMP is a free open source image editor that also acts as a DDS file editor. The Editor is popular and widely used among Graphic Designers, Photo editors, and scientists. GIMP is designed to work for Professional Designers and Content creators. The software offers similar features to its paid alternatives such as Photoshop. GIMP also offers an active online community, here you can share and learn about different techniques and plugins that you can use to enhance your editor and increase productivity

For editing any DDS image file, First, download the GIMP editor from its official website. After downloading, double-click on the program file and follow the installation wizard to install the software on your computer. Once done, follow the given steps to edit the DDS file in GIMP.

Step 1

The first step is to download the GIMP DDS Plugin from the official repository.

official GIMP DDS plugin

Step 2

After downloading the DDS Plugin, Extract the downloaded zip file by double-clicking on it or Right-click on the file and select the “Extract Here” option. If you don’t already have a Zip archiver then you can download it by visiting 7-Zip.

Step 3

Open the extracted folder and copy the file named “dds.exe” to the Plugins directory on GIMP. The location of the plugins directory might vary from system to system, However, in Windows, the location is “C:\Program Files\GIMP 2\lib\gimp\2.0\plug-ins” and Mac users can locate the folder in “$HOME/Library/Application Support/GIMP/2.8/plug-ins/” directory. Once you have copied the file in the directory, continue to the next step.

Step 4

Launch the GIMP image editor program on your computer, Click the File>> Open option and select the DDS file that you want to edit in GIMP, and click on the Open Button.

Step 5

Finally, Edit the DDS file in GIMP.

as we have already told, you can perform various actions and use almost all the Editing tools available in the GIMP editor to edit your DDS File.

Final Words!

GIMP is a free alternative to High-end and costly Image editors like Photoshop and illustrator. because of its open-source nature, You can edit/ modify the software and distribute it under your name. Although, Designers don’t need to do it and they can use the official software without any worries.

We Hope! you have understood and now you can edit the DDS files in GIMP. If you have any questions or queries then please let us know by commenting down.

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what is Infected with URL: Blacklist Avast – Malicious URL Blocked https://fixablestuff.com/url-blacklist-avast/ /url-blacklist-avast/#respond Fri, 30 Oct 2020 11:20:33 +0000 https://fixablestuff.com/?p=449 Read more]]> Is the Avast Antivirus blocking certain URL’s on your system? The blocked URLs will be shown as “Infected with URL: Blacklist” or “URL: Blacklist. This is a common problem many Avast users face, this is because Avast has an excellent web protection system that protects you from all suspicious online activities that might hurt your Computer or Personal Information. Below is a guide to help you understand why the URLs are blocked and how you can unblock the URLs on Avast.

Avast is a well-known company in the field of Antivirus Softwares. They have improved their Antivirus application over the years and currently rank as #1 in the Best Antivirus Softwares for Windows. Though the application is available on multiple platforms including iOS and Android. Avast helps you to keep your computer free of any viruses or malicious files. It also helps you to protect your online data and activities through its Web Shield component.

what is Infected with URL: blacklist

The Web Shield is an Avast component that protects you from online security threats. These threats might include Phishing Attacks, DDoS attacks, Email spam, Spywares, Malwares, and viruses in Downloadable files. By scanning every website and file, Avast determines its security level and allows/ Blocks it.
If you are seeing the URL: Blacklist Popup appearing on your screen while you visit a specific website is because the Avast Web Shield has blocked that URL from opening up on your Computer.

Why Avast Blocked an URL on my Computer?

Antivirus Softwares are designed to protect you from all sorts of threats. It is committed to protecting you from any attack that might harm your computer or steal sensitive information from your PC. Avast is one such Antivirus program that offers you an efficient and fast web spam detection system. Web shield is an Avast component that is responsible for blocking websites on your system. Below are some of the reasons for which the Web Shield Program might block a website.

  • Phishing Scheme.
  • Trojan Horses.
  • Fake Lottery/ Credit Card Scam.
  • Email Scams.
  • Downloading unwanted programs.
  • Fake browser extensions.
  • web trackers.

If the website is found with such vulnerabilities, The Avast Web shield component will block it and display you a security warning saying Infected with URL: Blacklist. However, if you feel like the website you are trying to visit is safe and Avast is throwing a False Positive response then you can unblock it. This question is especially acute if we are talking about b2b security.

How to unblock a Blacklisted Domain in Avast?

Rather than disabling the web shield completely, and exposing your system to various online attacks, you can simply unblock a single website and remove it from the Blacklist. The domains you add to the “Exceptions” list on Avast will be allowed to visit without any warnings or blacklisting.

To Unblock a Blacklisted domain on Avast, Open the Avast Interface and go to Menu >> Preferences. Here, click on the Core Shield tab, under “Web Shield” click on the “Add Exceptions” button to add the specific URL/ Domain that you want to unblock.

For better understanding, we are writing a detailed Step-by-step guide to unblock a blacklisted URL in Avast

Step 1

Open the Avast Security interface on your system and click the menu option located at the top-right corner. Scroll through the options and select “Preferences” from the menu.

avast preferences

Step 2

Click on the “Core Shields” tab, Scroll down until you find the “Web Shield” option. Under Web Shield, click on the “Add Exceptions” button.

url blacklist avaststep 3

Enter the URL you want to remove from the blacklist in the Server URL box. Select both the checkboxes under “Web Server Services” and click the Add button.

unblock blacklisted URL avast

Step 4

Exit the program and open any Web browser such as Google Chrome. Visit the website that you have just unblocked and check if the website is available to visit.

Conclusion:

We hope, you have understood what exactly Infected with URL: Blacklist in Avast means and why does it block the URL. It is always recommended to not visit the website blocked by the Antivirus program or by Google Chrome. This way, you will be safe from most of the online cyber attacks and keep your system free from junk files and spyware.

Please let us know if you found this article useful. If you have any questions regarding the Avast Web shield component, please let us know by commenting below.

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Logitech Wireless Mouse Not working? Here’s how to reset it https://fixablestuff.com/logitech-wireless-mouse-not-working/ /logitech-wireless-mouse-not-working/#respond Thu, 29 Oct 2020 12:31:08 +0000 https://fixablestuff.com/?p=437 Read more]]>
Logitech Wireless Mouse not Working? Well, it’s really simple to troubleshoot your Logitech wireless mouse and there are only a few things that might cause this error. In most cases, Replacing batteries or using a smooth surface might solve your problem, below we have given a few such methods to help you troubleshoot a Logitech mouse.

Logitech wireless mouse is cheap and affordable and due to its long durability and easy to handle design, it is one of the widely sold computer mouses in the World. However, As it is a hardware device, a problem can come anytime without any warning and you have to troubleshoot it and check how can you fix the issue. Below we have gathered few such ways to help you fix the Logitech Wireless Mouse not working issue on your Windows 10 PC.

How to Fix Logitech Wireless Mouse not Working?

It is really easy to identify the problem and fix your Logitech Mouse. If you have recently made any changes or settings regarding your Input device configuration on your Computer then we advise you to revert back to those changes and check if the problem gets resolved. Similarly, we also recommend you to check the Power Switch button on your Logitech Wireless mouse to ensure that it is not turned off. In most of the Logitech mouses, the Power button is situated at the back of the mouse.

Here are the methods to quickly troubleshoot your Logitech wireless mouse

Method 1: Remove the batteries and unifying the receiver

Sometimes, the problem can be as little as removing or replacing the batteries on your Logitech wireless mouse. This method is widely used to hard reset your wireless mouse and allow the computer to re-recognize the device.

To start with this method, First, remove the batteries from your Logitech mouse and the wireless receiver you connected to the USB port. Wait for few seconds for the mouse to discharge completely before inserting the batteries. Finally, insert the batters and the USB wireless receiver, check if the problem got solved.

logitech wireless mouse

Method 2: Replace the Batteries

If removing and re-inserting the batteries and the wireless receiver does not solve your problem then try replacing the batteries. Logitech mice are known for consuming more battery than other wireless mouses. This is because the mouse uses the latest hardware technology to ensure fast and efficient use. If you have not changes your mouse batteries in recent times, it’s time to replace them and fix the issues associated with your wireless mouse.

replace logitech wireless batteries

Method 3: Change USB Slot

If the USB slot fails to work properly, it might block the receiving signals from your wireless mouse thus causing you the mouse failure issue. Due to heavy usage, USB ports can malfunction any without any prior warning. If you are using a computer, try plugging the USB device on both sides of your CPU. Laptop users can try connecting the Wireless receiver to different USB ports. If you experience multiple USB port failure problems, you can order an external USB hub from online websites and try connecting your Mouse.

change logitech USB receiver port

Method 4: Update or reinstall the mouse driver

Drivers are used to establishing a connection between your Hardware device and software. Many times drivers will get installed automatically without any manual actions. Windows automatically installs the drivers when you first connect the device to your computer.

Sometimes due to corrupt file or broken code, these drivers can not function properly and you can fix this by installing an updated copy of your drivers or resetting them back to the default drivers. In this method, we will show you both the ways to successfully troubleshoot problems related to your wireless mouse by repairing the mouse drivers.

  1. Click on the Windows search bar and type “Run” or use “CTRL + R” on your Computer to open the Run Dialog box.
  2.  Type devmgmt.msc and press enter to open Device Manager. Similarly, you can also open the Device Manager by going to the Control Panel.
  3. Scroll down and expand the option which says “Mice and other pointing devices”.
  4. To update the drivers, right-click on Logitech HID-compliant unifying mouse option select “Update Driver“.
  5. To Uninstall the Drivers, right-click the Logitech option and select “Uninstall Device“.
  6. Shut down your computer and disconnect your wireless mouse. Now connect it and start your computer. Windows will automatically detect and install the required drivers for your Logitech wireless mouse.
  7. Check if the mouse is working properly.

Method 5: Test your Mouse on Another Computer

If the above method doesn’t work for you, it is time to test the wireless USB receiver. This can be done by connecting your Logitech wireless mouse to any other computer. Here are the steps to determine if the wireless mouse receiver is functioning properly.

  1. Go to the Device Manager by typing devmgmt.msc in your Run dialog box or directly visiting the Control Panel >> Device Manager option.
  2. Look for Mice and other pointing devices and click on the small arrow to expand it.
  3. If you see Logitech HID-compliant unifying mouse below the mouse option, this means that the USB receiver is working properly.
  4. Try using all buttons on your mouse and see if it is working properly on another computer.
  5. If it is a USB Receiver failure, try ordering a new one to fix the issue.

Method 6: Replace your Mouse

If none of the above-mentioned methods work for you, It is time to decide if you want to switch to a new mouse. You can try ordering the same mouse with the latest technology from Logitech. Check online reviews and customer testimonials before ordering any new mouse. Also, look for the features and options to see if it fits your needs.

Conclusion

Feel free to let us know if you face any difficulties while troubleshooting your Logitech Wireless mouse. If the “Logitech Wireless Mouse not working” problem is new to you then basic troubleshooting methods like replacing your batteries or resetting your Logitech mouse will help you to solve the issue.

If you are frequently getting problems with your Logitech wireless mouse then try the advanced troubleshooting methods such as Updating/ Resetting your mouse drivers to default. If the mouse is old then there might be hardware failure issues and you might have to replace it.

Please let us know which method worked for you. If you have more questions or queries regarding the Logitech Wireless mouse then let us know by commenting down.

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Is 7-Zip safe and how to identify 7-Zip Virus https://fixablestuff.com/is-7zip-safe/ /is-7zip-safe/#respond Thu, 29 Oct 2020 02:54:29 +0000 https://fixablestuff.com/?p=429 Read more]]> We have seen many people asking, Is 7-Zip Safe? or is it a virus? Well, it might sound like a virus to many people because of its name. There are many such questions that people ask when they see a program named 7-Zip installed on their Home or Office Computer. Without wasting more time, Let’s get into what exactly the 7-Zip Application is and what it does.

7-Zip is a legit program for Windows Computers that compresses and Decompresses Zip, Rar, and files with other such formats. It is a free File Compression tool that you can install on your computer and get your everyday task done.

The name kinda looks spammy or tricky and many people mark it as a virus. But, If you scan it with an Antivirus tool such as Avast, You can’t find any suspicious file. There are possibilities that if you are downloading the 7-Zip software on your computer from an untrusted source, It might contain some virus or Spywares, It’s important for you to differentiate between a real 7-Zip File compression program and a Virus.
let’s got more information about what exactly the File Compression tools are and how to detect original 7-Zip Application on your Windows Computer.

What is a File Compression Program?

File Compression is a process of Compression large files into a smaller one without losing its quality or content. Many new-age file compression programs are designed to compress files and make it as light as possible while not compromising on its quality. This is also known as lossless compression, it can compress thousands of files into one folder that is smaller than the combined size of all the files in it.

7-Zip is a well-known File Compression program that helps you to compress/ Decompress your files in formats such as Zip, RAR, GZip, etc. It is a free and open-source File archiving Software Available on Windows and Linux Operating Systems. Once you have successfully compressed the files, you can then send these compressed files to people through Email or by sending a cloud-service link. 

Is 7-Zip Safe? Can we Trust the 7-Zip File Compression Program?

7-Zip is a totally safe and Legit Windows File Compression Program. It is similar to WinRAR or other file compression software. You can download 7-Zip and use it instantly without worrying about safety or privacy. It offers you a more user-friendly and intuitive UI when compared to its competitors, also it doesn’t annoy with some fancy popups or Paid subscription Popups.

7-Zip offers a new file compression format called “.7z”. This file format compresses files more efficiently and securely than other file formats. It is more safe and secure than other File formats such as Zip or RAR. The email providers can’t easily break into your .7z file due to its unique compression methods.

How to Identify a 7-Zip Virus?

There are possibilities that hackers or spammers might name their file as “7-zip” and it might contain viruses, Spyware, Malware, Ransomware, etc. To avoid installing a wrong 7-zip file or a virus 7-zip file, always download it from the official website of 7-Zip. Similarly, you can also try downloading it from trusted software download websites like CNET or Sourceforge

You can use any Antivirus Software such as Avast to scan the files of the 7-Zip program to check any suspicious or malicious file.

There are also possibilities that the archived files you decompress using 7-Zip might contain a virus, Always ensure, you are downloading archived files from a trusted source, Friend, or family.

How to Uninstall 7-Zip?

If you still have doubts or don’t want a 7-zip file compression program on your computer, you can uninstall it. However, we recommend you keep and use it as it is a legit tool and can save your time and space by compressions files efficiently.

Below are the steps to follow in order to uninstall 7-Zip on Windows

  1. Go to the Windows start menu and type “Control Panel”, click on the first program.
  2. Look for the “Programs and Features” option and click on it.
  3. scroll down through the list to locate the 7-zip Program to select it.
  4. Click on the newly appeared “Uninstall” button at the top of the Apps list.
  5. Follow the uninstallation wizard to successfully uninstall 7-Zip on your Windows computer.
  6. Finally, Exit the Control Panel window and reboot your computer to apply the changes.

Conclusion

It is always safe to uninstall or remove unwanted and untrusted programs. 7-Zip is a legit and well-known File Compression Software available for Windows. You can compress or decompress any file using 7-Zip and that too without losing the quality of your compressed files.

If you have some issues trusting 7-Zip then you can scan it by using any Antivirus Program or use its alternative i.e. Winrar.

Please let us know if you need more information on 7-Zip by commenting below.

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