Problem solve

Problem solve

Get help with specific problems with your technologies, process and projects.

• RDP Win10 Black Screen Fixes

  After a recent Insider Preview upgrade I lose the ability to see the desktop in inbound RDP sessions. Along the way, I uncover some RDP Win10 Black Screen fixes. Continue Reading

• 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

• How can you pause Windows Update with Group Policy?

  Mistimed updates in Windows 10 can drive users crazy and cost organizations in terms of productivity. There are steps you can take to pause these updates, however. Continue Reading

• 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

• Operator Error Makes Insider Preview Reflect Bug Persist

  When operator error makes Insider Preview Reflect bug persist, my colleagues at TenForums guide me back to the solution I'd already tried, using the proper patch this time instead. Continue Reading

• Second Data Loss Bug in 1809 Raises Serious Concerns About Win10

  As users report that unzipping files into folders with existing copies may cause earlier versions to be overwritten, a second Data Loss bug in 1809 raises serious concerns About Win10.Continue Reading

• 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

• How to manage cookie privacy in the enterprise

  Cookies can make life easier for users by preventing them from having to re-enter passwords and preferences on websites, but they also carry some legitimate privacy concerns.Continue Reading

• Create an email phishing test to minimize attack vectors

  With email phishing testing, IT can improve its end-user security. Phishing attacks prey on user ignorance, so IT can use a test to teach users how to avoid this attack vector.Continue Reading

• Alternate Win10 1809 Source During Hold Period

  Right now MS has withdrawn the October 2018 release from circulation. For those in (dire) need, I provide an alternate Win10 1809 source during hold period.Continue Reading

• IT must prime its desktop management strategy for the future

  IT cannot rely on its traditional methods of desktop management to control all the devices, OSes and more in the enterprise today. Instead it must take a more modern approach.Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• Get to know the device-as-a-service trend

  Everything is a service these days. You can even get Yankee candles delivered from Amazon on a subscription basis. For EUC admins, device as a service is probably a bigger deal.Continue Reading

• Windows 10 updates options to ease the process

  Windows 10 update issues are commonplace in the enterprise, but IT isn't helpless to deal with them. Group Policy and other tools can help IT regain control over updates.Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• 4 tips for handling the upgrade process to Windows 10

  To ensure a smooth upgrade to Windows 10, IT should take advantage of helpful tools such as the Microsoft Management Console to test Windows 10 application compatibility.Continue Reading

• Macrium Patches Skipahead Preview Reflect Win10 Bug

  Macrium patches Skipahead Preview Reflect Win10 bug in under 24 hours (on a weekend, no less). This is first-rate customer service that goes way beyond the ordinary call of duty.Continue Reading

• How to get the Windows 10 upgrade process right

  To install Windows 10 correctly, IT pros should alter the disk layout for a fresh installation of the OS to match Microsoft's recommended order rather than its default order.Continue Reading

• How to solve Windows 10 updates problems

  Nothing is more annoying than an OS update that breaks something or won't load right. Windows admins may need some tips and tools to manage Windows 10 updates now that they're automatic.Continue Reading

• How can IT fix Windows Update issues?

  Microsoft offers some built-in troubleshooting methods to resolve Windows Update problems. There are also some third-party options IT should be aware of.Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• Fast Ring Win10 Builds 17728 and 17730 May Require Clean Install

  When numerous attempts with Windows Update, WUMT, and even an upgrade install from a mounted ISO all fail, I realize that Fast Ring Win10 Builds 17728 and 17730 may require clean install. To my ...Continue Reading

• 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

• Surface Pro Boot Requires Minimum Charge

  When a tablet connected to A/C power absolutely, positively refuses to boot, I learn that Surface Pro boot requires minimum charge levels to succeed.Continue Reading

• Dell Venue Pro 11 7130 Strange Upgrade Issues

  When Dell Venue Pro 11 7130 strange upgrade issues manifest for recent Insider Preview builds, my usual troubleshooting ritual sets things right. No clean install this time, as I'd feared might be ...Continue Reading

• How can IT turn off Windows 10 automatic updates?

  In some cases, IT pros should disable Windows 10 updates to gain control over the process. They can use methods such as editing group policies and setting a metered connection.Continue Reading

• Why would IT manually upgrade to Windows 10?

  There are some instances where IT should manually upgrade to Windows 10, including when the desktop runs older software for which IT does not have the installation media.Continue Reading

• Get to know your Windows 10 security options

  Protecting Windows 10 takes a lot of juggling. IT must be sure to use all the tools at its disposal to create the strongest security approach possible.Continue Reading

• How to create a Windows 10 security program

  IT can get ahead of Windows 10 security problems by understanding its organizational needs and focusing on a few key areas, including patching and domain password policies.Continue Reading

• MS Answers Offers 1803 Networking Resolution

  MS Answers offers 1803 networking resolution for those seeking to make nodes or network resources visible or available using File Explorer and other tools.Continue Reading

• What can you do if a Windows 10 keyboard or mouse is not working?

  If users encounter problems with a Windows 10 mouse or keyboard, IT pros can follow these steps to troubleshoot the connectivity issue quickly and easily.Continue Reading

• Fixing Win10 Restart PC to Finish Installing Drivers Issue

  Evidence I compiled helped me with fixing Win10 Restart PC to Finish Installing Drivers issue by leading me to the device involved, and possible fixes.Continue Reading

• HID Woes Cause Overkill Win10 Repair

  When HID woes cause overkill Win10 repair, it's because I try a software fix for what turns out to be a purely hardware problem. Sigh.Continue Reading

• How can you change Windows 10 update settings?

  Windows 10 updates can disrupt your workflow and cause frustration. With the right settings, however, you can minimize the risk of an update getting in the way of productivity.Continue Reading

• Create an effective email phishing test in 7 steps

  The best way for IT to improve email phishing security is through comprehensive testing, which helps identify which users are susceptible and what type of fake email is most effective.Continue Reading

• Bring Back PING in Win10 1803

  As I troubleshoot an inexplicable inability to remote into one of my office PCs, I figure out how to bring back PING in Win10 1803. In short, my recent spate of networking issues continue!Continue Reading

• Why Windows Machine Names Are Case-Sensitive in RDP

  When the certificate warning shows up, I finally figure out why Windows machine names are case-sensitive in RDP. The machine name isn't case-sensitive, but the certificate name most certainly is!Continue Reading

• 1803 May Drop Spectre Patches on Some PCs

  According to some usually reliable observers and experts, Windows 10 Version 1803 may drop Spectre Patches on some PCs. Here's how to check if any of your PCs are affected.Continue Reading

• How can IT convince users of the benefits of Windows 10?

  Users may not see the Windows 10 improvements as an upgrade from their current OS. As a result, IT must highlight relevant new features to gain user support.Continue Reading

• Spectre and Meltdown vulnerabilities show haste makes waste

  When the Meltdown and Spectre vulnerabilities came to light, everyone scrambled to find a fix. As a result, the patching process has been anything but smooth.Continue Reading

• God Mode Causes Win10 Office URL Insert Fail

  If God Mode Causes Win10 Office URL Insert Fail and pasting URLs causes Word, Excel and so forth to crash, delete the God Mode parent folder to fix this problem.Continue Reading

• Updating BIOS UEFI When Windows App Fails

  A questionable January firmware update for an older hybrid tablet has me seeking ways of updating BIOS UEFI when Windows app fails to run to completion. Dell Forums provide my answers.Continue Reading

• When USB Hub Gets Weird Win-RAID Provides Fix

  When USB hub gets weird Win-RAID provides fix for MIA Asmedia device. It's got modded drivers for Intel, and most other USB hubs and controllers, too. Worth checking out!Continue Reading

• Macrium Reflect Upgrade Cancels Backup Schedules

  As I follow my twice-monthly drive cleanup routine, I realize that Macrium Reflect upgrade cancels backup schedules. Can't have that!Continue Reading

• How to transition to Windows 10 without the headaches

  IT pros should take a step back and decide if an upgrade to Windows 10 is right for their organizations, or they may encounter problems during the process.Continue Reading

• Post Build 17115 Driver Fix Routine Still Works

  Even post Build 17115 Driver Fix routine still works to fix most common driver issues and difficulties. Try this 3-step sequence and see!Continue Reading

• Top six Windows 10 migration problems and how to avoid them

  Users and IT professionals sometimes have issues after a Windows 10 migration. Careful planning can mitigate these issues before IT undertakes a full-scale migration.Continue Reading

• Fixing Missing Mouse or Keyboard

  When it comes to fixing missing mouse or keyboard in Win10 you can either try different hardware, or boot from a different Windows, to effect repairs.Continue Reading

• Win10 Upgrade Repair Install Tips

  When it comes to fixing misbehaving or flaky Windows PCs, here are some hopefully useful Win10 upgrade repair install tips.Continue Reading

• Win10 Safe Mode Breakout Technique

  If you get stuck in a boot loop while in safe mode, you'll need a Win10 Safe Mode breakout technique. Here's one that works from the command line.Continue Reading

• Bootrec Fixes Win10 Boot Problems

  When boot-up goes wonky, remember this: Bootrec fixes Win10 boot problems! Here, you'll learn how to launch and run this boot repair tool, and what it can do to help.Continue Reading

• Can IT make the transition to Windows 10 smooth for users?

  IT can take a few steps to make the move to Windows 10 easier on users, including considering an in-place upgrade and holding off on any other major changes.Continue Reading

• Update 7-ZIP to 18.01 NOW

  Because of some recently-discovered and somewhat nasty vulnerabilities, you really, really want to update 7-ZIP to 18.01 NOW!!Continue Reading

• KB4058258 Install Fail Fix

  Those who try, and fail, to install KB4058258 should try this simple recipe for a KB4058258 install fail fix. It takes a little while but works pretty well.Continue Reading

• Timely Firmware Update Rescues Surface Pro 3

  After my PC gets caught in an ongoing crash loop, a timely firmware update rescues Surface Pro 3, thanks in large part to the Windows Update MiniTool.Continue Reading

• MS Issues Spectre Reversal Update (Catalog Only)

  Because Intel is taking its sweet time fixing microcode, and reboot and stability problems continue, MS issues Spectre reversal update (Catalog Only).Continue Reading

• Can IT save user settings, files in the move to Windows 10?

  IT can help users maintain their personal settings and files when moving to Windows 10 through an in-place upgrade or through manual or automated processes during a clean upgrade.Continue Reading

• A Windows vulnerability scan should leave no stones unturned

  When it comes to scanning for vulnerabilities in Windows, IT pros need to run both authenticated and unauthenticated scans so they can see the deployment from every angle.Continue Reading

• 17074.1002 Introduces Involuntary Upgrade Repair Install

  The latest Win10 Insider Preview build 17074.1002 introduces involuntary upgrade repair install. What looks like an update is a major version upgrade!Continue Reading

• Operator Error Explains 4TB Drive Mystery

  When I compared the PSU (brick) I'd been using on my dual drive dock to the one I'd just purchased, I realized that operator error explains 4TB drive mystery. Sheesh!Continue Reading

• More Details on KB4056892 Wintel Vulnerabilities

  More details on KB4056892 Wintel vulnerabilities tell us their names, and reveal that vendor hardware support is needed to fix one of this pair of critical items.Continue Reading

• RegHack Fixes Unwanted Win10 Thumbnail Deletions

  A simple RegHack fixes unwanted Win10 thumbnail deletions that make preview images disappear from File Explorer.Continue Reading

• Can you create a dynamically expanding virtual hard disk?

  If you build a dynamically expanding VHD it is important to remember to set the size to match the maximum possible storage space it will use.Continue Reading

• How to create a snapshot of your custom Windows 10 image

  Once you finish creating your custom Windows 10 image, the time is right to take a snapshot of it so you can deliver it to your users.Continue Reading

• Top Windows 10 backup and restore utilities

  The key to a good backup and restore tool is reliability. Look into third-party utilities such as Reflect or OneKey for Windows 10 restore and backup.Continue Reading

• Can you use Sysprep to install a custom Windows 10 image?

  With the right know-how, IT can create and install a custom Windows 10 image using Microsoft's System Preparation tool.Continue Reading

• MS Diagnostics and Recovery Toolset (DaRT) 10

  The Microsoft Diagnostics and Recovery Toolset, aka DaRT, is an invaluable toolset for admins seeking remedies for Windows 10 boot or startup issues.Continue Reading

• Clear cached credentials with the cmdkey and PowerShell

  Cached credentials make users' lives easier, but they can be a security issue in Windows if a device falls into the wrong hands. IT can manage them on a large scale with PowerShell.Continue Reading

• Top five Windows 10 problems and how to solve them

  Windows 10 problems persist, despite all the updates Microsoft sends out. Make sure you know the common issues for IT and end users, as well as how to solve them.Continue Reading

• How can you access Windows 10 advanced repair options?

  To resolve Windows 10 boot problems you can access a few repair options by entering the OS through the back door. Here's how to do it.Continue Reading

• Windows 10 security tools to have handy

  Cyberthreats lurk around every corner, so it's always a good time to fortify Windows 10 defenses. These top security tools can help make that happen.Continue Reading

• Taskkill Terminates Hung Processes

  When Windows processes go south, remember that Taskkill terminates hung processes at the command line. Very handy!Continue Reading

• How to fix Windows 10 update problems with the DISM command tool

  With a few tricks in the Windows Deployment Image Servicing and Management command utility, admins can solve some of the most common Windows 10 update problems plaguing their users.Continue Reading

• Take on Windows 10 Wi-Fi problems and address Wi-Fi Sense

  Windows 10 Wi-Fi connectivity is not as straightforward as it sounds. Microsoft moved the Wi-Fi settings and added security risks with Wi-Fi Sense. Plus, Wi-Fi often fails after an upgrade.Continue Reading

• How to solve four common Windows 10 problems

  Windows 10 comes with some concerns, including activation issues and device driver failures. Learn how to resolve these problems and more.Continue Reading

• How to handle Windows 10 browser compatibility issues

  IT often runs into problems with legacy apps not functioning well on new browser versions. There are a few ways to combat Windows 10 browser compatibility issues in Internet Explorer 11.Continue Reading

• Can I control the Windows 10 user interface?

  You can control the Control Panel, Shared Folders, Start menu and other components in Windows 10 using Group Policy settings.Continue Reading

• Use an in-place upgrade to repair Windows 10

  If your Windows 10 installation has gone wonky and needs some attention, one way to fix it is with an in-place upgrade to the same version of Windows you already use.Continue Reading

• Why do I keep getting Windows 10 driver errors?

  If you keep getting driver errors in Windows 10, a video driver could be to blame. Luckily, the problem is easy to troubleshoot.Continue Reading

• What do I do when I can't activate Windows?

  When you can't activate a Windows installation there are two things you should check before you pull out your hair.Continue Reading

• Windows 10 Image Repair on Boot Fail

  When Windows won't boot, Windows 10 image repair replaces corrupt OS files to restore things to normal. It's worth a try, though it is no panacea.Continue Reading

• GPT Disk Layout Matters for NVMe

  When it comes to optimizing boot speed for an NVMe SSD, GPT disk layout for Windows 10 is essential.Continue Reading

• Emergency Restart Windows 10

  Careful use of keyboard sequences and the on-screen power button lead to a little-known Emergency Restart screen in Windows 10 (and 8 versions).Continue Reading

• Four ways to put Sysinternals Process Explorer to work

  IT admins can use Process Explorer in Sysinternals to find suspicious software, inspect process and object privileges, and more.Continue Reading

• Microsoft Office Trust Center settings that help stop malware

  The Trust Center in Microsoft's Office suite has some important and useful settings to prevent users from opening files infected with malware and viruses, but admins need to know about and enable them.Continue Reading

• How do I fix a frozen or locked application?

  Apps can freeze or lock up for a variety of reasons, including bad memory, operating system issues, update problems and more.Continue Reading

• Comprehensive guide to desktop monitoring tools

  IT admins can identify the source of device and app problems using monitoring tools such as Windows Sysinternals and other offerings.Continue Reading

• How do I create a standard Windows 10 Start menu for all users?

  Users can customize the Windows 10 Start menu, but you might not want them to for business reasons. Luckily, there's a way you can make it so all workers use the same Start menu configuration.Continue Reading

• Top Windows command-line commands

  Examine some of the best command-line commands for Windows, including tools to shut down a user's computer or force updates.Continue Reading

• Ten most useful Windows Sysinternals utilities

  Sysinternals utilities such as Autoruns and TCPView can target specific problem areas in a Microsoft Windows environment, including performance issues.Continue Reading

• Desktop management tools and best practices

  Desktop management tools are the key to making sure things in your fleet are running smoothly. Systems such as Desktop Central and Client Management Suite cover the big five of desktop management.Continue Reading

• The importance of desktop inventory management tools

  Desktop inventory management tools help keep track of how many endpoints are in use and who's using them. That basic information can help with sundry other management tasks, such as budgeting and responses to security breaches.Continue Reading

• What are some common Office 2013 problems?

  Office 2013 problems can stem from an incomplete install, or your particular version or settings. Luckily, there are simple fixes for most issues.Continue Reading

• How do I open an .xpx file in Office 2002 SP3?

  An .xpx file can cause problems for Office 2002 SP3 users, but Microsoft does provide help in Windows 7 and with a free XPS viewer.Continue Reading

• Untangling the Gordian knot of the Windows boot process

  An infinite reboot loop is a common issue with the Windows boot process. Start up in Windows Safe Mode to diagnose device driver or hardware problems.Continue Reading

• How do I remove admin restrictions from Windows 7 laptops?

  To relax the usual restrictions on Windows 7 laptops, use the Windows administrator account, but remember to record your password.Continue Reading

• Using tools to back up and restore bootable USB device images

  Do you have more install or diagnostic environment images to manage than physical UFDs? Learn how to back up and restore bootable USB device images.Continue Reading