Microsoft Windows - Appuals Tech from the Experts Tue, 02 Apr 2024 12:02:42 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 How to Fix Windows Desktop Not Auto-Refreshing? https://appuals.com/desktop-not-refreshing-automatically/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=desktop-not-refreshing-automatically https://appuals.com/desktop-not-refreshing-automatically/#disqus_thread Tue, 02 Apr 2024 12:02:42 +0000 https://appuals.com/?p=409697 The Windows Desktop is designed to auto-refresh whenever you make changes on it. However, due to various reasons, it may not refresh automatically. For example, When you create a new file, folder, or shortcut, your Desktop or Windows Explorer may fail to refresh automatically. This requires you to manually refresh by pressing the F5 key …

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The Windows Desktop is designed to auto-refresh whenever you make changes on it. However, due to various reasons, it may not refresh automatically. For example, When you create a new file, folder, or shortcut, your Desktop or Windows Explorer may fail to refresh automatically.

This requires you to manually refresh by pressing the F5 key or using the context menu to see the changes. This issue also occurs when deleting, downloading, or moving/copying files on the Desktop or in File Explorer.

Upon investigating this issue, we discovered that it often results from corrupted history within Windows. Moreover, if your desktop folder resides in OneDrive, this issue is likely to occur.

Having discussed several causes, let’s delve into the methods to resolve this issue.

1. Restart the File Explorer

Restarting the File Explorer is an effective solution to this problem. It not only restarts File Explorer but also refreshes the necessary services and clears data from memory. To do this, follow the steps below:

  1. Right-click the Taskbar and select Task Manager.
  2. In the Processes tab, right-click Windows Explorer and choose Restart.
  3. Check to see if the Desktop or File Explorer now refreshes automatically after changes are made.

2. Restore File Explorer to Default

The issue is frequently caused by File Explorer’s history. Clearing this history and restoring File Explorer to its default settings may fix the problem.

  1. Press Win + E to open Windows File Explorer.
  2. Click on the three dots at the top and select Options.
  3. In the Privacy section, click Clear followed by Restore Defaults.
  4. Click Apply and then OK.
  5. Verify if the issue has been resolved.

3. Modify the Registry

The problem may also arise if the registry entry named DontRefresh is missing. Creating this entry could enable automatic refreshing after changes are made.

Before proceeding with modifications in the registry editor, ensure you create a backup. Learn how to restore the registry backup if needed by following this guide: How to Back Up and Restore the Registry.

  1. Search for Registry Editor using the Start Menu and open it.
  2. Press Enter.
  3. For 64-bit operating systems, navigate to
    HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Wow6432Node\CLSID; for 32-bit systems, go to HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\CLSID.
  4. Right-click on CLSID, hover over New, and select Key.
  5. Name the key {BDEADE7F-C265-11D0-BCED-00A0C90AB50F}.
  6. Right-click on the new key, select New > Key, and name it Instance.
  7. Right-click on Instance, select New, and choose DWORD (32-bit) Value or QWORD (64-bit) Value depending on your system. For 64-bit operating systems, it’s advisable to try both, but delete the one that doesn’t work.
  8. Name the value dontrefresh and set it to 0.
  9. Close the registry editor and restart your computer or File Explorer for the changes to take effect.

4. Reset Desktop Icons

This unusual solution has worked for some users. Resetting the desktop icons moves them back to their default positions and, for unknown reasons, can help with this issue.

  1. Right-click on the Desktop and select Personalize.
  2. Navigate to Themes > Desktop Icon Settings.
  3. Click Restore Default, then Apply, and finally OK.
  4. Check if the issue has been fixed.

5. Uninstall OneDrive

OneDrive integration might be another reason for this problem, particularly if the desktop folder is stored in OneDrive. To resolve this issue, either unlink OneDrive from your PC or completely uninstall it. Many users have found uninstalling OneDrive to be effective.

5.1 Unlink OneDrive

  1. Open OneDrive from the notification area.
  2. Click the Help icon and choose Settings.
  3. Under the Account tab, click Unlink this PC.
  4. Test to see if the issue is resolved.

5.2 Uninstall OneDrive

  1. Go to Settings and then to Apps > Installed Apps.
  2. Find OneDrive, click the three-dot menu, and select Uninstall.
  3. Afterward, open the Microsoft Store and reinstall OneDrive from there, if desired.

If nothing works, you are not out of options. You can still attempt to fix the issue by resetting Windows or performing a system restore.

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How to Fix “gpupdate /force” Command Not Working Issue? https://appuals.com/gpupdate-force-command-not-working/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=gpupdate-force-command-not-working https://appuals.com/gpupdate-force-command-not-working/#disqus_thread Tue, 02 Apr 2024 11:51:26 +0000 https://appuals.com/?p=407588 When attempting to update the Group Policy on a client PC connected to the Domain Controller, the error “Computer Policy could not be updated successfully” may occur, accompanied by various error messages, or you may experience a prolonged wait at the “Updating Policy” stage. This error can arise for multiple reasons, such as domain resolution …

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When attempting to update the Group Policy on a client PC connected to the Domain Controller, the error “Computer Policy could not be updated successfully” may occur, accompanied by various error messages, or you may experience a prolonged wait at the “Updating Policy” stage.

This error can arise for multiple reasons, such as domain resolution failure or Active Directory replication errors—which are specified within the error message itself. Additionally, this issue may manifest when domain user credentials have expired or become corrupt.

1. Clear Domain User Credentials

The error frequently surfaces when the Domain user’s login credentials stored in the Credentials Manager become compromised or outdated.

Expired or corrupt credentials can obstruct the application of Group Policy updates to the computer. To resolve this, clear the domain user credentials to eliminate any potentially problematic stored credentials.

  1. Download PSTools from the provided link.
  2. Right-click the PSTools zip folder and choose Extract to PSTools.
  3. After extraction, navigate to the folder and minimize the window.
  4. Click the Start Menu and search for Command Prompt.
  5. Right-click on it and select Run as administrator.
  6. Maximize the window with the PSTools folder.
  7. Copy the address from the folder’s address bar.
  8. In the command prompt, type `cd ` and press enter.
  9. Run `PsExec64.exe -i -s cmd.exe` for 64-bit operating systems, or `PsExec.exe -i -s cmd.exe` for 32-bit systems. A new command prompt window will open.
  10. Type `rundll32.exe keymgr.dll, KRShowKeyMgr` in the new command prompt window, and press Enter. The Stored User Names and Passwords window will appear.
  11. Select and remove the credentials one by one.
  12. Repeat this for all stored credentials.
  13. Close the windows and, in the command prompt, type `gpupdate /force` and hit Enter to force the Group Policy update.
  14. After these steps, the issue should be resolved.

2. Check Event Viewer

If the problem persists, consult the Event Viewer for further investigation. Errors logged in the Event Viewer relevant to Group Policy can provide insights into the underlying cause.

  1. Press the Start Menu and type Event Viewer.
  2. Hit Enter to open it.
  3. From the left pane, select System.
  4. Examine the Group Policy-related errors in the right pane and apply suitable fixes as indicated by the error messages. If problems with name resolution or the domain controller persist, consider following the guidance in this article.

3. Restart the Group Policy Service

The Group Policy service is imperative for implementing administrator-configured settings on computers and users. If this service is disrupted, the associated settings will not take effect. Therefore, verify that the Group Policy service is active.

  1. Right-click on the Start Menu and choose Run.
  2. Input `services.msc` and hit OK to open the services menu.
  3. Locate the Group Policy Client, right-click on it, and select Properties.
  4. Switch the Startup type to Automatic.
  5. Click Start, then Apply, and finally OK.

4. Recreate the Registry.pol File

The Registry.pol file in Windows contains local Group Policy settings. A missing or corrupt Registry.pol file may prevent updates. To rectify this, recreate the file by removal or renaming.

  1. Press the Win + E keys to open File Explorer.
  2. Navigate to the directory:
    C:\Windows\System32\GroupPolicy\Machine
  3. Here, delete the Registry.pol file and restart the computer.
  4. Press the Start Menu, search for Command prompt, and run it as an administrator with the key combination Ctrl + Alt + Shift + Enter.
  5. Run the `gpupdate /force` command and check if the issue is resolved.

If the above solutions do not resolve the issue, consider resetting the Group Policy to its default settings, although be aware that this may cause the loss of important configurations. It may nevertheless be worth it to rectify the underlying problem.

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How to Resolve GIFs Not Showing Issue in Microsoft Teams? https://appuals.com/microsoft-teams-gifs-are-missing/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=microsoft-teams-gifs-are-missing https://appuals.com/microsoft-teams-gifs-are-missing/#disqus_thread Tue, 02 Apr 2024 11:43:08 +0000 https://appuals.com/?p=410397 If you’re having trouble seeing GIFs on Microsoft Teams, it’s often due to misconfigured settings. This is a common issue where GIFs may disappear within the application. Other potential causes include enabled hardware acceleration or corruption in the Microsoft Teams cache and files, which may result in this problem. To fix this issue, you can …

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If you’re having trouble seeing GIFs on Microsoft Teams, it’s often due to misconfigured settings. This is a common issue where GIFs may disappear within the application. Other potential causes include enabled hardware acceleration or corruption in the Microsoft Teams cache and files, which may result in this problem.

To fix this issue, you can try several methods. Having discussed the possible causes, let’s jump into the solutions.

1. Disable Hardware Acceleration

Hardware Acceleration is intended to offload specific tasks to specialized hardware components, like the GPU, allowing the task to run more efficiently than it would using other components, typically the CPU. Despite being a useful feature, it can sometimes cause problems with applications.

By default, hardware acceleration is enabled in Microsoft Teams. If you encounter issues, it’s recommended that you start by disabling this feature.

  1. Open Microsoft Teams and navigate to Settings.
  2. In the General tab, select Disable GPU Hardware Acceleration (Requires Restarting Teams).
  3. After making this change, restart Teams and check if the issue has been resolved.

2. Configure Microsoft Teams Settings Correctly

Incorrectly configured Microsoft Teams settings could also cause GIFs to vanish. Make sure that specific options allowing GIFs to be displayed in Microsoft Teams are enabled.

  1. Click on the three dots at the top-right corner and select Settings.
  2. From the left pane, select Privacy and scroll down to the end of the list.
  3. Enable the Optional Connected Experiences setting, which will improve your Teams experience by offering cloud-based services, including the display of GIFs.
  4. Next, if you have an Admin Microsoft Teams account, click on the three dots next to the class name and select Manage Team.
  5. Navigate to Settings using the top navbar.
  6. Expand the Fun Stuff section and turn on the Giphy feature.
  7. After these adjustments, you should be able to send, receive, and view GIFs in Microsoft Teams.

3. Clear Microsoft Team Cache

When you launch an application for the first time, it stores relevant information in cache files so that it can reuse the data rather than retrieving it from the server again.

However, if cache files become corrupted, this can prevent GIFs from appearing in Microsoft Teams. Clearing the cache can resolve the issue by allowing Microsoft Teams to recreate the cache data.

3.1 Windows

  1. Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type in %AppData% and click OK to open the folder.
  3. Navigate to Microsoft > Teams within the Roaming folder.
  4. Delete the following folders:
    • Cache
    • blob_storage
    • Code Cache
    • GPUCache
    • Local Storage
    • IndexedDB
    • databases
    • tmp

  5. After this, re-open Microsoft Teams to see if the issue is resolved.

3.2 Browser

  1. Select the three dots at the browser’s top corner and choose Settings.
  2. Choose Privacy and Security from the left, and then click on Clear Browsing Data.
  3. Select “All time” as the Time Range and click Clear Data.
  4. Check to see if the issue has been fixed.

4. Reinstall Microsoft Teams

If the above steps fail to resolve the issue, reinstalling Microsoft Teams may help. Reinstallation can fix problems caused by corrupted files that are preventing the use of GIFs.

  1. Access your Windows Settings by pressing Win + I.
  2. Navigate to Apps > Installed Apps.
  3. Search for and locate Microsoft Teams among the installed apps.
  4. Click the three dots and choose Uninstall.
  5. Confirm by clicking Uninstall again to remove the application.
  6. Once removed, reinstall Microsoft Teams from the Microsoft Store and verify if the issue persists.

It’s possible that your admin has disabled GIFs for your group. If you are unable to view or send GIFs after following the steps above, you may want to discuss this issue with your administrator to ensure it’s not a policy setting that’s blocking GIFs.

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How to Fix the File System Error (-2015294522) in Windows? https://appuals.com/file-system-error-2015294522/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=file-system-error-2015294522 https://appuals.com/file-system-error-2015294522/#disqus_thread Tue, 02 Apr 2024 11:35:03 +0000 https://appuals.com/?p=409883 The File System error (-2015294522) typically occurs when attempting to access text documents through Notepad. Although this error can appear under various scenarios, it primarily arises during text document access. This error is relatively uncommon and may be triggered by a range of factors, including corrupted system files, issues with Notepad itself, an incorrectly set …

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The File System error (-2015294522) typically occurs when attempting to access text documents through Notepad. Although this error can appear under various scenarios, it primarily arises during text document access.

This error is relatively uncommon and may be triggered by a range of factors, including corrupted system files, issues with Notepad itself, an incorrectly set region, or an outdated Windows operating system.

With the potential causes in mind, let’s delve into the solutions to resolve this issue.

1. Change Your Region

Many users have successfully resolved this error by changing their region settings. If your current region setting is incorrect, making an adjustment may resolve the error message.

  1. Press the Win + I keys simultaneously to open Settings.
  2. From the left pane, select Time & Language.
  3. In Language & Region, ensure the region is set to the United States, regardless of your actual location.
  4. Check if the error persists after changing your region.

2. Run SFC Command

Corrupted system files can be the culprit for this error, but they can be repaired by using the System File Checker (SFC) command. This utility restores or fixes corrupted system files and can be complemented by the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) commands, which are used to repair Windows images.

  1. Type Command Prompt in the Start Menu and open it.
  2. Launch Command Prompt as administrator by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Enter.
  3. Enter the command: sfc /scannow to initiate the repair of system files.
  4. Follow this with the DISM command:
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

  5. After executing both commands, verify if the error has been resolved.

3. Reset or Repair Notepad

  1. Launch Settings in Windows and navigate to Apps > Installed Apps.
  2. Search for the Notepad application.
  3. Click the three dots next to Notepad and select Advanced Options.
  4. Navigate to the Reset section and click Repair.
  5. If the issue continues, click Reset.
  6. Check to see if the problem is resolved. If not, proceed to the next steps.

4. Reinstall Notepad

  1. Use Win + I to open Windows Settings.
  2. Navigate to Apps > Installed Apps.
  3. Enter Notepad in the Search Bar.
  4. Click the three dots next to Notepad and then select Uninstall.
  5. Following the uninstallation, search for Windows Notepad in the Microsoft Store, and reinstall it.
  6. After installation, verify if the error has been addressed.

5. Use an Older Version of Notepad

If the error remains unresolved, consider using the classic version of Notepad or alternative text editors such as WordPad or Notepad++.

  1. Press Win + E to open File Explorer.
  2. You can access the classic Notepad at the following file paths:
    c:\windows\system32\notepad.exe
    c:\windows\notepad.exe
  3. Navigate to one of the above directories and launch Notepad.
  4. To open a file, click File at the top of Notepad and select Open.
  5. If the classic Notepad is missing, it may need to be installed manually. Start by searching for Optional Features in the Start Menu.
  6. Locate Notepad in the Optional Features window, click the dropdown icon, and then select Install.
  7. With installation complete, you can begin using the classic version of Notepad.

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How to Fix Error Code 53003 in Microsoft 365 Applications? https://appuals.com/error-code-53003-microsoft-365-apps/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=error-code-53003-microsoft-365-apps https://appuals.com/error-code-53003-microsoft-365-apps/#disqus_thread Tue, 02 Apr 2024 11:20:16 +0000 https://appuals.com/?p=410763 The error code 53003 typically appears in the Outlook application. However, it may also occur in other applications within the Microsoft 365 suite. According to the error’s description, it stems from Azure Conditional Access Policies implemented by an organization’s IT administrator for the user’s account. Although the issue is associated with Azure Conditional Access Policies, …

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The error code 53003 typically appears in the Outlook application. However, it may also occur in other applications within the Microsoft 365 suite. According to the error’s description, it stems from Azure Conditional Access Policies implemented by an organization’s IT administrator for the user’s account.

Although the issue is associated with Azure Conditional Access Policies, other factors such as corrupted cache files or an outdated Windows system could also prompt this error.

1. Contact Your Organization’s IT Administrator

Should your account be managed by an organization, begin by reaching out to the IT administrator to have your credentials validated. This step is crucial as incorrect login information could be the reason why you are experiencing error code 53003.

2. Reset or Repair the Microsoft 365 App

Resetting Microsoft 365 will eliminate application-specific data such as cookies, settings, cache, and images. In contrast, the repair function will address potentially corrupted files within the application. It is advisable to attempt to repair the Microsoft 365 app initially; if the issue continues, proceed with resetting the app.

  1. Access Windows Settings by pressing Win + I keys concurrently.
  2. Select Apps > Installed apps.
  3. Locate the Microsoft 365 app that is causing the issue.
  4. Click on the three dots and select Advanced Options.
  5. Scroll to the Reset Option, and choose the Repair option.
  6. Afterward, you may reset the app by selecting the Reset button.

3. Clear Browser Cache

For those using Outlook via a web browser and encountering this error, clearing the browser’s cache could potentially resolve the problem.

  1. Within your browser, enter Settings by clicking the three dots at the top-right and selecting Settings.
  2. Navigate to Privacy and Security on the left sidebar.
  3. Select Clear Browsing Data from the available options.
  4. Modify the Time Range from 24 Hours to All Time and press Clear Data.
  5. Proceed to verify if the issue has been resolved.

4. Reinstall the Microsoft 365 App

After trying the aforementioned solutions without success, consider reinstalling the Microsoft 365 app to determine whether corruption within the application files is the source of the problem.

  1. Launch the Start Menu and input Settings.
  2. Press Enter to open the settings window.
  3. Head to Apps > Installed Apps.
  4. Find and select the Microsoft 365 App.
  5. Tap the three dots and choose Uninstall.
  6. Confirm by clicking Uninstall once more.
  7. Finally, reinstall the application and check if the issue persists.

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How to Fix Wpcmon.exe’s High CPU Usage Issue in Windows? https://appuals.com/wpcmon-exe-causing-high-cpu-usage/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=wpcmon-exe-causing-high-cpu-usage https://appuals.com/wpcmon-exe-causing-high-cpu-usage/#disqus_thread Tue, 02 Apr 2024 00:47:43 +0000 https://appuals.com/?p=409469 Wpcmon.exe is part of the Family Safety Monitor, a software developed by Microsoft to enable parental controls on computers. This software allows parents to set time limits, and restrict access to inappropriate content on websites and applications, ensuring a safe environment for children. If you utilize the Family Safety Monitor, it’s essential that Wpcmon.exe remains …

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Wpcmon.exe is part of the Family Safety Monitor, a software developed by Microsoft to enable parental controls on computers. This software allows parents to set time limits, and restrict access to inappropriate content on websites and applications, ensuring a safe environment for children.
If you utilize the Family Safety Monitor, it’s essential that Wpcmon.exe remains running in the background. However, if Wpcmon.exe causes high CPU usage, you can apply several methods to mitigate this issue.

1. Scan your Windows with Windows Defender

Malware in your system may also cause high CPU usage. Running a full system scan can help detect and eliminate malware that might be causing high resource consumption.

  1. Press Win + I simultaneously to open Settings.
  2. Navigate to Privacy & Security on the left, then select Windows Security from the choices at the top.
  3. Choose Virus & Threat Protection from the list of options.
  4. Select Scan options, found under Current Threats.
  5. Opt for Full Scan and then click on Scan Now to initiate the scanning of your Windows system.

2. Delete or Rename WpcMon.exe

If you do not use the Family Safety Monitor, you can safely delete or rename WpcMon.exe to prevent high CPU usage. The file is stored in the System32 folder. You will need to obtain permissions from the TrustedInstaller to modify files in this location.

  1. Press Win + E to launch File Explorer.
  2. Follow this path:
    C:\Windows\System32
  3. Search for and locate WpcMon.exe among the files and folders listed.
  4. Right-click on WpcMon.exe and choose Properties.
  5. Navigate to the Security tab and click Advanced.
  6. Click Change, next to the label that reads TrustedInstaller.
  7. Type your user account name and click Check Names. If uncertain of your account name, click Advanced, then Find Now.
  8. Select your user account from the displayed list, and click OK to confirm.
  9. Click Apply, then OK to save the new settings.
  10. Revisit the Properties window, and click Advanced once more.
  11. Then, select Change Permissions followed by Add.
  12. In the Permission Entry window, click Select a principal.
  13. Type your user account name and click Check Names. If needed, repeat steps 7–9 to select the correct account.
  14. After confirmation, click OK. In the permissions window, check all the options under Basic Permissions.
  15. Upon completion, click OK.
  16. You are now ready to remove or rename the WpcMon.exe file without encountering any errors. We suggest renaming it, in case you need the file later. Right-click WpcMon.exe, choose Rename, append a 1 to the file name, and press Enter to finalize the renaming.

If none of the methods mentioned above work, consider resetting your Windows without data loss, or utilize a system restore utility if you have previously created a restore point.

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How to Troubleshoot Npswf32.dll Not Found Errors on Windows? https://appuals.com/npswf32-dll-is-missing-or-not-found/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=npswf32-dll-is-missing-or-not-found https://appuals.com/npswf32-dll-is-missing-or-not-found/#disqus_thread Tue, 02 Apr 2024 00:34:57 +0000 https://appuals.com/?p=410264 If you use Adobe Flash Player to view multimedia content, you may encounter errors related to Npswf32.dll. This third-party DLL file is essential for Adobe programs to function correctly. DLL files can become corrupted, misplaced, or deleted for various reasons. Often, these files are corrupted due to malware infections from untrusted applications or games. Application …

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If you use Adobe Flash Player to view multimedia content, you may encounter errors related to Npswf32.dll. This third-party DLL file is essential for Adobe programs to function correctly.

DLL files can become corrupted, misplaced, or deleted for various reasons. Often, these files are corrupted due to malware infections from untrusted applications or games.

Application files that have become corrupt are also a common cause of missing DLL file errors. When the Npswf32.dll file becomes corrupted, you are likely to encounter the following errors:

  • Npswf32.dll is Missing.
  • The program can’t start because Npswf32.dll is missing from your computer.
  • Npswf32.dll Not Found.

If you encounter any of these errors, there are several methods to resolve the issue.

1. Download the DLL File from a Third-party Website

One of the most reliable methods is to download and install the Npswf32.dll file from a trusted third-party website, such as dll-files.com. You can replace the corrupted DLL file with the new one:

  1. Visit dll-files.com and search for Npswf32.dll.
  2. Press Enter to display the results.
  3. Select the appropriate DLL file from the results.
  4. Scroll down to download the DLL file.
  5. After downloading, extract the file using WinRar or 7zip.
  6. Navigate to the extracted folder, copy the Npswf32.dll file, and paste it into the directory that corresponds with your operating system:
    For 32-bit operating system: C:\Windows\System32
    For 64-bit operating system: C:\Windows\SysWOW64

  7. Check if the error has been resolved.

2. Run a Full Windows Defender Scan

Many times, DLL files become corrupted due to malware. You can try running a full scan with Windows Defender or a trusted third-party antivirus program:

  1. Press the Win key and type Windows Security.
  2. Press Enter to open the settings.
  3. Select Virus & Threat Protection.
  4. Choose Scan Options and select Full Scan.
  5. Verify whether the error has been resolved after the scan.

3. Disable Antivirus Software

Sometimes, your antivirus software may block the Npswf32.dll file. It is recommended that you disable your antivirus program temporarily, whether it’s Windows Defender or a third-party solution.

3.1 Windows Defender

  1. Open Settings by pressing Win + I.
  2. Select Privacy & Security from the left panel.
  3. Navigate to Windows Security.
  4. Under Protected Areas, select Virus & Threat Protection.
  5. Click on Manage Settings under Virus & Threat Protection Settings.
  6. Toggle off Real-time Protection and any other active options.
  7. Check for the issue again after disabling the protection.

3.2 Third-party Antivirus Software

  1. Right-click on the antivirus icon in the notification area at the bottom right of the screen.
  2. Find an option resembling Control or Manage in the context menu.
  3. Choose to Disable for 10 minutes or to Disable Permanently.
  4. Afterward, check if the error still occurs or if it has been fixed.

If the issue continues, you may have corrupt application files causing the error. Reinstall the program from the official website for a potential fix.

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How to Troubleshoot Error Code 0x8A150049 on Microsoft Store? https://appuals.com/microsoft-store-error-0x8a150049/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=microsoft-store-error-0x8a150049 https://appuals.com/microsoft-store-error-0x8a150049/#disqus_thread Tue, 02 Apr 2024 00:19:05 +0000 https://appuals.com/?p=409305 When a problem occurs with the Windows installer service or component, it can result in error code 0x8A150049 while attempting to install apps from the Microsoft Store. This error is commonly caused by the Windows installer service failing to respond. As a result, many users are unable to resolve this issue because they apply solutions …

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When a problem occurs with the Windows installer service or component, it can result in error code 0x8A150049 while attempting to install apps from the Microsoft Store. This error is commonly caused by the Windows installer service failing to respond. As a result, many users are unable to resolve this issue because they apply solutions intended for fixing Microsoft Store issues, not those related to the Windows installer component.

The Windows installer is a key component responsible for the installation, modification, and uninstallation of software products. Consequently, any issues with the Windows installer component will prevent the installation or uninstallation of applications.

Other potential causes of error 0x8A150049 include corrupted Microsoft Store files and cache. Having discussed the causes, let’s proceed to the solutions.

1. Restart the Windows installer service

Considering that problems with the Windows installer are among the primary causes, it is advisable to begin by troubleshooting this component. Restarting the Windows installer service may resolve the issue, allowing you to install the Microsoft Store app without encountering the error message.

  1. Right-click the Start Menu and select the Run option to open the Run Program.
  2. Enter services.msc in the Run Window.
  3. Locate and right-click the Windows Installer service, then select Properties.
  4. Switch the Startup type from Manual to Automatic.
  5. Click Start to activate the service.
  6. Try installing the app from the Microsoft Store once again.

2. Reregister the Windows installer service

Reregistering the Windows installer service can be an effective troubleshooting step for error 0x8A150049.

  1. Press the Win key to access the Start Menu.
  2. Search for Command Prompt in the Windows search bar.
  3. Right-click on it and select Run as administrator.
  4. Execute the following commands:
    msiexec /unregister
    msiexec /regserver

  5. Check if the error still occurs by attempting to install the Microsoft app.

3. Ensure TLS 1.2 and TLS 1.3 are enabled

Transport Layer Security (TLS) is a protocol designed to secure communications between a client and a server. Enabling TLS 1.2 and TLS 1.3, which are the more recent versions of the TLS protocol, has resolved many Microsoft Store error codes.

  1. Search for Internet Options from the Start Menu.
  2. Press Enter to access the Control Panel Internet Options.
  3. Select the Advanced tab in the Internet Properties window.
  4. Scroll to the bottom and deselect SSL 3.0, and TLS 1.0 and 1.1.
  5. Ensure that TLS 1.2 and TLS 1.3 are selected.
  6. Click Apply and then OK.
  7. Restart your computer and attempt to install the app from the Microsoft Store once more.

4. Reset the Microsoft Store cache

Occasionally, cache data can become corrupted, which may interfere with app installation. This is a common issue with the Microsoft Store. If this is the case, simply resetting the Microsoft Store can clear the cache and potentially resolve the problem.

  1. Press Win + R simultaneously to open the Run Window.
  2. Type wsreset.exe and click OK to reset the Microsoft Store Cache.

5. Reinstall Microsoft Store

If none of the above methods work, you may need to reinstall the Microsoft Store, as file corruption within the Store may be preventing proper installation of apps. Unlike third-party apps, the Microsoft Store cannot be uninstalled in the traditional manner. You will need to use Windows PowerShell and specific commands to reinstall the Microsoft Store.

  1. Hit the Win key and search for Windows PowerShell.
  2. Right-click on PowerShell and select Run as administrator.
  3. In PowerShell, type the following commands to reregister the Microsoft Store:
    Get-AppxPackage -allusers Microsoft.WindowsStore | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}

  4. Restart your computer afterwards.
  5. Now, you should be able to install apps from the Microsoft Store without encountering any errors.

If reinstalling the Microsoft Store does not work, it is possible that the Windows installer component is damaged, which is why you cannot install apps from the Microsoft Store.

To address this problem, consider resetting your Windows without losing data, or use a system restore utility if you have previously created a restore point.

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How to Fix the “Dependency Service or Group Failed to Start” Error in Windows? https://appuals.com/dependency-service-or-group-failed-to-start/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=dependency-service-or-group-failed-to-start https://appuals.com/dependency-service-or-group-failed-to-start/#disqus_thread Mon, 01 Apr 2024 23:18:05 +0000 https://appuals.com/?p=406414 The “Dependency Service or Group Failed to Start” error is exceedingly common among Windows users. It has surfaced on systems from Windows 7 and continues to affect users on Windows 10 and Windows 11. This error predominantly occurs for those who utilize selective startup to speed-up Windows boot-up process. While this mode is effective at …

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The “Dependency Service or Group Failed to Start” error is exceedingly common among Windows users. It has surfaced on systems from Windows 7 and continues to affect users on Windows 10 and Windows 11.

This error predominantly occurs for those who utilize selective startup to speed-up Windows boot-up process. While this mode is effective at preventing third-party services and drivers from loading during startup, it may inadvertently obstruct the essential network services required for establishing an internet connection, ultimately leading to this error.

Since the error is displayed within the Network and Sharing Center, many attempt to resolve it by initiating the network troubleshooting utility. This approach occasionally fixes the error. Therefore, if you haven’t tried the troubleshooting utility yet, it’s worth using it before diving into more technical solutions.

Moreover, issues with the stored DNS cache have been known to trigger this error. Bearing these potential causes in mind, let us proceed to explore the solutions for this troublesome error.

1. Load All Services and Drivers at Startup

As we previously mentioned, your PC may be failing to run some essential network services that are vital to internet connectivity, which might explain why you’re encountering this error.

To verify whether this is the case, adjust the system configurations to enable a normal startup, which ensures all device drivers and services configured to run at startup are loaded, be they third-party or Windows-specific services.

  1. Right-click the Start Menu and select the Run option.
  2. In the Run dialog, type msconfig and press Enter to open the System Configuration tool.
  3. Select Normal startup if selective startup is currently chosen.
  4. Click Apply and then OK.
  5. Restart your computer for all services to load, which should rectify the error.

2. Add Network Service/Local Service to the Administrator’s Local Group

In Windows, the Network and Local Service accounts are used by the service control manager to present credentials across the network. Assigning administrator privileges to these accounts often resolves the “The Dependency Service or Group Failed to Start” error. To do this, you must add both the Network and Local Service accounts to the administrator’s local group.

  1. Press the Win key to bring up the Start Menu.
  2. Type Command Prompt in the search box.
  3. Right-click on it and select Run as administrator.
  4. In the elevated Command Prompt, execute the following commands one at a time, pressing Enter after each:
    net localgroup administrators localservice /add
    net localgroup administrators networkservice /add

  5. After completing the commands, restart your computer.
  6. Navigate to the Network & Sharing Center and run the troubleshooting utility.
  7. Should you receive the error “The Diagnostic Policy Service is not running,” simply select Try these repairs as an administrator. This action should resolve the error and allow for internet connectivity.

3. Flush Your DNS

Your DNS cache may possess outdated or incorrect information leading to this error. To correct this, you can flush the DNS, which prompts the system to refresh its DNS information.

  1. Access the Start Menu by pressing the Win key.
  2. Type Command Prompt in the search box, then press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to launch it with administrative rights. Once opened, enter the command:
    ipconfig /flushdns

  3. Close the Command Prompt after execution and verify if the issue has been resolved.

4. Restart Essential Network Services

Your Windows system may not be running the crucial network services required for internet access. By setting up essential network services to start automatically with PC boot-up, you can ensure no necessary service is being overlooked.

  1. Press the Win + R keys at the same time to open the Run dialog.
  2. Enter services.msc and hit OK to launch the Services window.
  3. Locate the Application Layer Gateway Service in the list.
  4. Right-click it and select Properties.
  5. If its startup type is set to Manual, change it to Automatic.
  6. Click Apply followed by OK.
  7. Repeat these steps for each of the following services:
    Remote Access Connection Manager
    Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
    Remote Access Auto Connection Manager
    Telephony
    Network Location Awareness (NLA)
    Network Connections
    Plug and Play
  8. Restart your PC after making these changes and check if the error has been resolved.

5. Reinstall the Network Adapter

Your network adapter facilitates internet connectivity. If the above methods have not resolved the issue, the problem might lie within the network adapter itself. Reinstalling the network adapter could determine whether it is the source of the problem.

  1. Open the Start Menu and search for Device Manager.
  2. Press Enter to navigate to the Device Manager.
  3. Expand the Network adapters section and right-click on your specific network adapter.
  4. Select Uninstall Device.
  5. Confirm the action by clicking on Uninstall again.
  6. Restart your computer, which will lead to the reinstallation of the adapter.
  7. Verify if the issue still persists post-reinstallation.

6. Reset the Network Settings

If none of the previously mentioned methods resolve the issue, consider resetting the network settings. This can fix errors caused by any misconfigured settings causing the problem.

  1. Press the Win key, type Network Reset, and press Enter to access the appropriate settings.
  2. Click on Reset now. Your PC will restart with default network settings, which should resolve the error.

7. Restore Your Windows to a Previous Point 

This solution is intended for individuals who have created a system restore point. For those unacquainted with the system restore utility, it’s important to note that the Windows update utility routinely creates a restore point in case of complications arising during updates.

System restore allows users to roll back their system to a previous state if a restore point was created. A restore point contains a snapshot of system files, drivers, and registry settings. This can be invaluable if the need arises to revert to a past system state due to issues.

  1. Right-click the Start Menu and select Run.
  2. Type the command rstrui in the run dialog and click OK to launch the System Restore utility.
  3. Click Next, choose a restore point, and then click Next again.
  4. Press Finish to commence the restoration process.
  5. Once the process is complete, check to ensure the error no longer appears in the Network and Sharing Center.

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How to Bypass the “This Feature Requires Removable Media” Error https://appuals.com/password-reset-error-this-feature-requires-removable-media/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=password-reset-error-this-feature-requires-removable-media https://appuals.com/password-reset-error-this-feature-requires-removable-media/#disqus_thread Mon, 01 Apr 2024 23:17:52 +0000 https://appuals.com/?p=406802 You may encounter the error “This Feature Requires Removable Media” when attempting to reset your local account password. This error occurs because resetting the password necessitates a previously created password reset disk as a backup measure. Consequently, only the individual possessing the password reset disk can access your PC. However, if you have not created …

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You may encounter the error “This Feature Requires Removable Media” when attempting to reset your local account password. This error occurs because resetting the password necessitates a previously created password reset disk as a backup measure. Consequently, only the individual possessing the password reset disk can access your PC.

However, if you have not created a reset disk, you won’t be able to reset the password using this method. Nevertheless, you still have other available options for resetting your password.

1. Use System Image Recovery to Change Your Password

To circumvent the Windows login, you must rename `cmd.exe` to `Utilman.exe`. `Utilman.exe`, also known as the Ease of Access Center, facilitates login for users with disabilities.

The strategy involves renaming `cmd.exe` to `Utilman.exe`, so when you press the Ease of Access button from the login window, the Command Prompt window—running with system administrator privileges—appears instead of the Ease of Access options.

Accounts with system administrator privileges can access the highest settings level, which we can use to change or remove the password for the local account.

To rename `cmd.exe`, you must access the system files. Here, we will use System Image Recovery, a utility that allows users to restore the state of Windows when they have created a backup. However, our intention here is to use it solely to navigate the system files and rename `cmd.exe` to `utilman.exe`.

  1. Turn off your PC using the power button.
  2. Then, turn it on again. When the Windows logo appears, interrupt the process by pressing the Power button to shut it down.
  3. Keep repeating these steps until you boot into the Windows Recovery Environment.
  4. Select Advanced Options > Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > System Image Recovery.
  5. Once in the System Image Recovery Window, click Next > Advanced > Install a driver > OK.
  6. Locate the disk where Windows is installed. Drive letters may differ; locate the correct drive and navigate it.
  7. Go to the Windows > System32 folder, and first rename `utilman` to `utilman1`.
  8. Next, rename `cmd` to `utilman`. Refresh the window to confirm the changes.
  9. Exit all windows and select Continue to boot into Windows.
  10. At the login screen, click the Ease of Access button to open the Command Prompt.
  11. Now, you are operating under the system account, which has significant privileges in Windows.
  12. List all user accounts by typing the command net user in the Command Prompt.
  13. Select the user account whose password you wish to reset by typing the following command.
    net user "account name" *
  14. If your account name includes spaces or special characters, enclose it in quotation marks when entering the command. For example: net user “John Doe” *
  15. Type the new password, press Enter, and then retype it for confirmation. To remove the password, press Enter twice. The password will not be displayed for security reasons.
  16. After changing the password, close the Command Prompt and attempt to log in with the new credentials.
  17. If successful, ensure that you revert `cmd` and `utilman` to their original names.

2. Perform a Factory Reset

If you cannot regain access to your local account via the above method, consider backing up your data onto a flash drive through System Image Recovery in the Windows Recovery Environment prior to performing a system reset.

  1. Hold down the Shift key, click the Power icon, and then choose Restart.
  2. Do not release the Shift key until the PC has completely shut down.
  3. After restarting in the Windows Recovery Environment, select Advanced Options > Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
  4. Select Keep my files and choose Local Reinstall.
  5. Click Reset to initiate the reset process.

3. Create a Password Reset Disk

After resetting your PC, it is strongly advised you create a password reset disk. Thus, if you forget the password again, you can easily reset it using the ‘forgot password’ feature.

  1. Open the Start Menu and type Control Panel.
  2. Press Enter to access the Control Panel.
  3. Navigate to User Accounts and click on Create a password reset disk.
  4. Then, click Next, and select a USB flash drive to use for the password reset disk, then click Next again.
  5. Provide the current computer password when prompted, then click Next.
  6. Lastly, click Yes, and then Next, followed by Finish to create the password reset disk.
  7. Verify that the password reset disk works properly by testing the feature with your USB flash drive.

Utilizing a Microsoft account rather than a local account in Windows simplifies password reset. It is particularly beneficial for those prone to forgetting passwords and looking to avoid future complications.

Resetting your Windows login password with a Microsoft account is as straightforward as resetting a Facebook account password. Hence, consider transitioning to a Microsoft account on your PC if you haven’t already.

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