Windows 10 troubleshooting
Like any OS, Windows 10 is not immune to problems. Issues with Wi-Fi connectivity or Windows Update or Windows activation will crop up here and there. As a result it's important that IT pros know how to troubleshoot any issues that arise and understand what steps they can take to keep problems at bay before they affect users.
Top Stories
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Tip
15 Dec 2021
How to scan and repair disks with Windows 10 Check Disk
Windows 10 Disk Check is an intuitive tool that can scan and repair hard drives to reduce the risk of total disk failure and loss of critical information. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Dec 2021
How to troubleshoot when Windows 10 won't update
Windows updates can lead to unexpected issues for IT administrators, but there are some simple steps they should always take to find the cause of the update issue. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Dec 2021
7 Windows 10 issues and how to troubleshoot them
Microsoft offers different troubleshooters to fix common Windows 10 problems, and once you find the right one for your issue, these troubleshooters are easy to use. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Nov 2021
Top 5 methods to address Windows 10 performance issues
Strong desktop performance is a difficult balance to maintain, but with these 5 methods and a careful approach, IT admins can address any Windows 10 performance issues. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Sep 2021
How to perform Windows 10 disk optimization
Normal use of a PC causes the disk drive to fragment over time, resulting in suboptimal performance. Use Windows 10 disk optimization to defragment a drive and increase efficiency. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Dec 2020
How to configure proxy settings using Group Policy
IT pros can use this labor-saving tip to manage proxy settings calls for properly configured Group Policy settings. Here are the steps to take. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Nov 2020
11 tips to improve Windows 10 performance
With a few minor tweaks, such as maximizing RAM, disabling visual effects and getting rid of unnecessary services, you can increase Windows 10 performance. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Nov 2020
How and when to perform a Windows Registry cleanup
Desktop administrators should learn the best methods to edit the Windows registry, and how to avoid manual registry edits due to the damage that registry issues can cause. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Oct 2020
A complete guide to troubleshooting Windows Hello
Windows Hello has several common issues that administrators may need to troubleshoot. Find out what those issues are here and what to do about them. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Jul 2020
How to fix a Windows 10 boot loop
A Windows reboot loop is a vicious and frustrating cycle, but there are ways you can fix a Windows 10 boot loop problem, including booting in Safe Mode. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Jul 2020
Learn native Windows 10 virtual memory management methods
With the variety of local techniques for managing Windows 10 virtual memory, desktop administrators can address numerous performance issues on end-user machines. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jul 2020
6 Group Policy best practices for Windows 10 admins
Group policies are a central component of Windows 10 configuration. Here are six best practices that can simplify Group Policy management for Windows 10. Continue Reading
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News
07 Jul 2020
Microsoft launches Windows File Recovery tool
Despite the prevalence of cloud storage and data backups, important files are still lost. Microsoft's Windows File Recovery tool aims to address the problem. Continue Reading
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Answer
24 Apr 2020
How to change UEFI and BIOS password on Windows 10
Admins may need to open the BIOS or UEFI interface to change BIOS passwords on Windows 10. This process isn't too complex, but IT pros should follow these steps to accomplish this. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 Apr 2020
Why isn't Adobe Reader working on Windows 10?
When Adobe Reader isn't working with Windows 10, admins can take a few troubleshooting steps to rectify the issue. Begin with Adobe's AcroMonitor tool. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Apr 2020
Combat Windows update issues with a consistent testing plan
When it comes to deploying Windows updates, there is one key step that IT must take to ensure users' productivity isn't hindered: a comprehensive plan for testing the updates. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Apr 2020
Understand and manage Windows 10 virtual memory
It can be difficult for IT pros to understand the intricacies of Windows 10 virtual memory, but they should develop a basic knowledge of virtual memory to effectively manage desktops. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Mar 2020
How to enable and troubleshoot fast startup in Windows 10
The fast startup feature on Windows desktops can add value, but IT must understand when it should and shouldn't enable this feature and how to troubleshoot common issues. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
10 Feb 2020
MS Assistant Addresses Office Issues
A downloadable MS Assistant Addresses Office Issues of all kinds, including my weird Internet Calendar Subscriptions issue. Worth downloading for admins and power users tasked with Office upkeep. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
07 Feb 2020
Windows 10 Blank Search Bites Production PC
When Windows 10 blank search bites production PC, I recognize this as a widely-reported and common issue. Fortunately, it's also quite easy to fix. Here's how... Continue Reading
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Blog Post
03 Feb 2020
Win10 Outlook 365 Pro Crashes Prompt Timely Update
When my rock-solid production PC Reliability Index drops dramatically, discovering a Win10 Outlook 365 Pro crashes prompt timely update. Hope it's fixed! Continue Reading
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Blog Post
31 Jan 2020
Cloud Download Reset Reappears in Build 19555.1001
When I check, I learn that Cloud Download Reset reappears in Build 19555.1001. This lets users reset Win10 PCs using direct download from MS servers. Good stuff! Continue Reading
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Blog Post
30 Jan 2020
Firefox Tightens Web Security Clamps
When my usual browser refuses to take me to a couple of sites I visit daily, I realize that Firefox tightens web security clamps by insisting on a valid certificate before it will connect. Interesting! Continue Reading
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Blog Post
06 Jan 2020
NirSoft ShellExView Pinpoints Explorer Context Menu Problems
After 8 days away, I find my production PC beset with 17 BEX64 faulting application events. I recall that NirSoft ShellExView pinpoints Explorer Context Menu problems. A quick fix ensues. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
20 Dec 2019
Nirsoft USBLogView Monitors USB Events
In trying to track down a mysterious USB plug/unplug problem, I learn that Nirsoft USBLogView Monitors USB Events. Good stuff! Continue Reading
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Blog Post
18 Dec 2019
UUPDump.ml Invaluable Resource
I call UUPdump.ml invaluable resource because it grabs MS internal download components and uses them to create ISOs for most (if not all) known versions of Windows 10. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Dec 2019
How to shut down and restart a remote computer
Shutting down or restarting a computer remotely is often a necessary process. Explore the multiple ways to do so, using methods such as GUI and CLI commands. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
04 Dec 2019
Windows Graphics Card Reset Key Sequence
If all you see on your Windows PC is a black screen, possibly with a white cursor, it's always a good idea to try the Windows graphics card reset key sequence Ctrl+Shift+Win+B. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Dec 2019
How to repair Windows Server using Windows SFC and DISM
Administrators can diagnose and treat a buggy server operating system by using the Windows SFC and DISM utilities for image analysis and repairs. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
02 Dec 2019
How to fix printer problems after a Windows 10 update
Windows 10 updates, especially an update to Windows 10 version 1809, can sometimes cause printer issues. You can fix these problems with these tips. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
25 Nov 2019
Thanksgiving Break 2019
I'll be taking this week off from blogging, so I'll wish everyone a happy, healthy and prosperous long holiday weekend instead. Cheers! Continue Reading
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Blog Post
15 Nov 2019
USB iPhone Link-Up Causes BSOD
On a desktop running 18363.476, a USB iPhone link-up causes BSOD each time I try to plug it in. Basic diagnosis indicates a driver problem of some kind, so I switch to another PC for the time being. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
04 Nov 2019
RAW Win10 Disk Report Thankfully Transitory
When a RAW Win10 Disk reports itself in Explorer and dskchk, I immediately reboot my system. Fortunately, that cures the problem. Otherwise, more serious repairs -- discussed herein -- become ... Continue Reading
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Blog Post
28 Oct 2019
More Odd USB-C Symptoms
More odd USB-C symptoms manifest for a hinky device on a test PC: dwm.exe (Windows Desktop Windows Manager) crashes 9 times for each incident. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Oct 2019
How to use and troubleshoot with Device Manager in Windows 10
Device Manager can be extremely useful if you know how to use it properly. Understand how to access and use Device Manager in Windows 10 to manage device drivers and more. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Oct 2019
10 Microsoft Ignite 2019 sessions for Windows admins
Windows OS admins attending Microsoft Ignite 2019 will have a variety of relevant sessions from which to choose. Consider these 10 sessions to get new management techniques and tips. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Oct 2019
5 ways to speed up Windows 10 performance
Windows 10 performance can slow down over time. Fortunately, you can do a few things to speed up performance, including freeing up storage space and removing bloatware. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Oct 2019
Troubleshoot Bluetooth connection problems in Windows 10
Bluetooth connection problems in Windows 10 are fairly common. Fortunately, there are a variety of troubleshooting steps that IT can take to restore the connection. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Sep 2019
How to fix 5 common printing problems in Windows 10
Printing problems in Windows 10 are fairly common and can be a nuisance for IT admins. Here are five issues you may run into and how to troubleshoot them. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
12 Sep 2019
Cycling Power Fixes Wireless Weirdness
It takes me a phone call to ASUS tech support to figure it out, but cycling power fixes wireless weirdness on my new ASUS wireless access device. Go figure! Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Sep 2019
2 methods to tackle Windows Autopilot troubleshooting
Windows Autopilot isn't perfect, and you can run into errors during its deployment. Explore two ways to troubleshoot Windows Autopilot issues, using event logs and registry keys. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
03 Sep 2019
1903 KB4512941 Garnering Numerous Issues
When I say 1903 KB4512941 Garnering Numerous Issues, I'm talking about three or more actual gotchas, one of which stymies successful installation. Be wary! Continue Reading
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Blog Post
24 Aug 2019
Partially Disconnected USB Cable Puts Mouse MIA
Takes me a while to figure this out, but a partially disconnected USB cable puts Mouse MIA -- at least until I shove the two extension cables fully together. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
16 Aug 2019
1903 Hyper-V Networking Interference?
After installing KB4512508 on my local Win10 PCs, I notice some 1903 Hyper-V networking interference (no Internet!). A quick uninstall/reinstall fixes the issue. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 Aug 2019
Which options does IT have for Windows 10 bloatware removal?
Bloatware isn't just annoying -- it can negatively affect OS security, for example. Find out ways to get rid of Windows 10 bloatware once and for all with these tips. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Jul 2019
3 Windows 10 known issues and how to fix them
There are a few issues that accompanied the Windows 10 1903 update. Before deploying the latest update, IT admins should familiarize themselves with the most common problems. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Jul 2019
How to troubleshoot the blue screen of death for Windows 10
The blue screen of death is never a pretty sight. Learn how to troubleshoot and fix this dreaded issue in Windows 10, using a variety of different methods and tools. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Jul 2019
4 Windows 10 management tools to troubleshoot desktops
Windows 10 administrators can take up a lot of time setting up desktop deployments and troubleshooting applications. Consider these four Windows 10 management tools to ease that process. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
21 Jun 2019
Reliability Monitor Error Info Propels Fixes
When you know how to read what you see, and what you see makes any kind of sense, Reliability Monitor error info propels fixes. An APPCRASH on a UPS monitor immediately suggested a software ... Continue Reading
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Blog Post
17 Jun 2019
Win10 Sleep Issues Make Sleepstudy Worthwhile
Looking for information about system power states on a PC to resolve Win10 sleep issues make Sleepstudy worthwhile. The Powercfg command uses this option to produce an info-packed report. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jun 2019
How to boot to Windows Safe Mode on Windows 10
Having problems with Windows crashes, applications or performance issues? Try booting to Windows Safe Mode on Windows 10 to pinpoint and troubleshoot the problem. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Jun 2019
How to use Windows Admin Center to manage Windows 10
Windows Admin Center started as a Windows Server tool, but it can manage Windows 10 desktops too. Learn which features can help with Windows 10 management. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
27 May 2019
Recent Windows 10 Updates Kill Built-in Restore Facility
If you get caught in a recent WU snafu, certain recent Windows 10 Updates kill built-in restore facility that makes use of restore points. MS offers a workaround, but it's classified as a "known ... Continue Reading
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Blog Post
08 May 2019
Windows 10 Workaround Versus Fix
When I can't complete an RDP login on a Skip ahead Insider Preview PC I find myself pondering this dilemma: Windows 10 Workaround versus fix. For me, a workaround will do. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
03 May 2019
19H1 Release Preview Bug Bites
You'll know when the Windows 10 19H1 Release Preview bug bites, when you see an error message from Windows Update that reads "What needs your attention. . ." Turns out removing the SD card usually ... Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Apr 2019
Top Windows 10 issues facing IT
Windows 10 can be a challenging OS for both end users and IT admins. Here, IT pros discuss the biggest challenges they've experienced with Windows 10 management. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Mar 2019
How to create Windows 10 toast notifications with PowerShell
IT can send pop-up notifications to a Windows 10 user's taskbar with a PowerShell module called BurntToast. Here's how to get started creating toast notifications. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
11 Mar 2019
Reboot Still Solves Simple Win10 Problems
As I observe that a reboot still solves simple Win10 problems, I'm reminded that trying easy and obvious fixes early in the troubleshooting process remains a good idea. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
25 Feb 2019
Nvidia LiveKernelEvent 141 Error Returns
When Nvidia LiveKernelEvent 141 error returns to Reliability Monitor, I start troubleshooting my Nvidia drivers. I eliminate GeForce and the driver installer as the cause, but not the error. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Feb 2019
How to access Windows 10 troubleshooting tools step by step
Running into problems with Windows 10 booting, starting or other performance issues? Get to know the menus and options for Windows troubleshooting. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
25 Jan 2019
Win10 Safemode Trap Defeated
If you only use an MS account to log in to Windows 10, you might get caught in a trap. Here, I show the Win10 Safemode trap defeated and disarmed. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
24 Jan 2019
Win10 1809 Update Unknown Device Works
To my surprise and delight, I find that Win10 1809 update Unknown Device works in Device Manager. At least it did for a couple of UART system devices yesterday. Cool! Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Jan 2019
How to find Wi-Fi settings in Windows 10
In Windows 10, the Wi-Fi -- and wired -- connectivity settings are in a new spot, but they're as easy to access and configure as ever. You just have to know where to look. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
15 Jan 2019
CU KB4480116 Hiccup Offers Easy Fix
CU KB4480116 Hiccup Offers Easy Fix: if you apply the update and lose the Start Menu and/or UWP apps, a quick restart/reboot may set things right. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
19 Nov 2018
Default Screen Res Kills Event Viewer Log Filtering
Although default Screen Res kills Event Viewer log filtering in Win10 versions 1803, 1809, and Insider Preview, it's easily worked around by temporarily resetting Scale and Layout to 100%. Continue Reading
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News
15 Nov 2018
Microsoft reissues Windows 10 October Update, Server 2019
Windows Server 2019 and the Windows 10 October Update are back in IT admins' hands, six weeks after the company pulled them from the market when some users reported lost data. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
09 Nov 2018
MS Activation Server Issues Temporarily Negate Win10 Licenses
When MS Activation Server issues temporarily negate Win10 licenses, consternation reigns for a few hours. A couple of simple fixes will set affected PCs straight, though. No biggie! Continue Reading
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Blog Post
02 Nov 2018
Win10 Registry Backup Task Broken
A Win10 Registry Backup task broken: it's named RegIdleBackup and it reports successful completion in Task Manager even though it writes no backup files. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Nov 2018
5 Windows 10 management tools every IT pro must know
With tools such as PowerShell and the Microsoft Deployment Toolkit, IT can make managing Windows 10 much simpler from deployment through mobile device management. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
19 Oct 2018
Build 17763.55 Fixes USB Issues
After the initial release of Windows 10 1809 demoted USB 3.0 devices to 2.1, Build 17763.55 fixes USB 3.0 issues. All drivers back to current levels. Continue Reading
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News
12 Oct 2018
Microsoft Windows 10 October 2018 Update stumbles out of gate
The most recent Windows 10 update includes enhancements for business users, but it ran into major problems shortly after its release. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
01 Oct 2018
Marginal Power Mars Win10 USB Flash Drive Access
When using 500 GB and 1 TB mSATA SSDs, I discover that marginal power mars Win10 USB flash drive access, with drives dropping out or completely inaccessible. Easy fix, though. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
26 Sep 2018
Hard Disk Warning Prompts Win10 Tool Search
Casual use of a freebie tool means hard disk warning prompts Win10 tool search. Net net: new hard disk arriving next week by mail. Continue Reading
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Answer
14 Sep 2018
What to do if Windows Defender updates don't work
Without the latest Windows Defender updates, your users' desktops won't be completely protected. When update problems occur, there are several actions you can take to solve them. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Sep 2018
Reduce update-related downtime after a Windows 10 OS upgrade
Windows 10 updates are a necessary evil, as they add new features and improve security, but also cause downtime for users. IT can downplay the negative effects of updates. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
13 Aug 2018
About Logitech Driver Interface Drivers
As I dig into and learn more about Logitech Driver Interface Drivers, I quickly realize that they're essentially no-ops (not needed, not loaded, and not used). 'Nuff said! Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Aug 2018
How to stop Windows 10 updates temporarily
A poorly timed Windows 10 update can cause a major headache for an end user. Fortunately, users can pause updates or IT can take steps to halt updates using Group Policy. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
03 Aug 2018
Latest GeForce Driver 398.82 Bluescreens PC
When the latest GeForce Driver 398.82 bluescreens PC this morning, I find myself on an unwanted nostalgia trip. Been here before, not eager to go back. Even so, I'm waiting to see if it happens one ... Continue Reading
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Blog Post
02 Jul 2018
Strange Display Behavior Gets Workarounds
Strange display behavior gets workarounds in Windows 10: right-click the taskbar entry, Alt+Space to restore the original window, or force-change then restore screen resolution. Very interesting! Continue Reading