network settings Archives

Winsage

February 21, 2025

How to Fix the “Windows Could Not Find a Driver for Your Network Adapter” Error

The "Windows Could Not Find a Driver for Your Network Adapter" error occurs when Windows cannot communicate with the network adapter due to outdated, corrupted, or missing drivers. To resolve this issue, users can reinstall network adapter drivers by opening "Device Manager," locating the network adapter under "Network Adapters," right-clicking it to select "Uninstall Device," confirming the uninstallation, and then scanning for hardware changes to prompt Windows to reinstall the adapter and its drivers. Alternatively, users can perform a network reset, which removes all network adapters and restores settings to their original defaults. This involves opening the Settings app, selecting "Network & Internet," clicking on "Network reset," and then clicking "Reset now" to initiate the process.

Winsage

February 18, 2025

100+ run commands that can help you work efficiently on Windows

Windows 11 and 10 provide run commands that streamline workflow by allowing quick access to various system tools, applications, settings, and diagnostic features. Administrative Tools: - compmgmt.msc: Opens Computer Management. - devmgmt.msc: Launches Device Manager. - diskmgmt.msc: Opens Disk Management. - services.msc: Manages background services. - eventvwr.msc: Opens Event Viewer. - secpol.msc: Opens Local Security Policy. - regedit: Opens Registry Editor. - taskschd.msc: Opens Task Scheduler. - gpedit.msc: Opens Group Policy Editor (Pro & Enterprise). System Diagnostics and Troubleshooting: - msinfo32: Opens System Information. - dxdiag: Launches DirectX Diagnostic Tool. - verifier: Opens Driver Verifier Manager. - resmon: Opens Resource Monitor. - perfmon: Opens Performance Monitor. - mdsched: Runs Windows Memory Diagnostic. - msdt: Opens Microsoft Support Diagnostic Tool. - dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth: Repairs Windows image. - sfc /scannow: Scans and repairs system files. - chkdsk: Runs Check Disk. - winver: Checks Windows version. - cleanmgr: Opens Disk Cleanup. File and Storage Management: - cleanmgr: Launches Disk Cleanup. - dfrgui: Opens Disk Defragmenter. - chkdsk: Checks and repairs disk errors. - diskpart: Opens Disk Partition utility. - onedrive: Opens OneDrive folder. - shell:AppsFolder: Opens all apps folder. - wab: Opens Windows contacts folder. - explorer: Opens File Explorer. - recent: Opens recent files and folders. - documents: Opens Documents folder. - downloads: Opens Downloads folder. - favorites: Opens Favorites folder. - pictures: Opens Pictures folder. - videos: Opens Videos folder. - %AppData%: Opens App Data folder. - debug: Accesses Debug folder. - backup: Opens backup folder. - %systemdrive%: Opens system drive. Security and Maintenance: - firewall.cpl: Opens Windows Defender Firewall. - wf.msc: Launches Firewall with advanced security. - ms-settings:windowsdefender: Opens Windows Security. - sigverif: Verifies file signatures. - verifier: Checks driver integrity. - msconfig: Opens System Configuration. - sfc /scannow: Runs system file checker. - dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth: Repairs Windows image. Launching Apps: - notepad: Opens Notepad. - calc: Launches Calculator. - snippingtool: Opens Snipping Tool. - mspaint: Opens Microsoft Paint. - winword: Starts Microsoft Word. - excel: Opens Microsoft Excel. - chrome: Launches Google Chrome. - msedge: Opens Microsoft Edge. - control: Opens Control Panel. - explorer: Opens File Explorer. - powerpnt: Opens Microsoft PowerPoint. - firefox: Opens Mozilla Firefox. - wmplayer: Opens Windows Media Player. - msra: Opens Windows Remote Assistance. - outlook: Opens Microsoft Outlook. Navigating Settings: - ms-settings: Opens main Settings app. - ms-settings:network: Opens network & internet settings. - ms-settings:display: Opens display settings. - ms-settings:personalization: Opens personalization settings. - ms-settings:windowsupdate: Opens Windows Update settings. - ms-settings:privacy: Opens Privacy settings. - ms-settings:bluetooth: Opens Bluetooth settings. - ms-settings:devices: Opens Devices settings. - ms-settings:system: Opens System settings. - ms-settings:accounts: Opens Accounts settings. - ms-settings:timeandlanguage: Opens Time & Language settings. - ms-settings:gaming: Opens Gaming settings. - ms-settings:region: Opens Region settings. - ms-settings:optionalfeatures: Opens Optional Features settings. - ms-settings:storage: Opens Storage settings. - ms-settings:notifications: Opens Notifications settings. - ms-settings:taskbar: Opens Taskbar settings. - ms-settings:start: Opens Start Menu settings. - ms-settings:lockscreen: Opens Lock Screen settings. Network and Connectivity: - ncpa.cpl: Opens Network Connections. - ipconfig: Displays IP configuration. - ping: Tests network connectivity. - control netconnections: Opens Network and Sharing Center. - ms-settings:network-wifi: Opens Wi-Fi settings. - ms-settings:datausage: View data usage. - ms-settings:network-vpn: Manage VPN. - ms-settings:network-proxy: Configures proxy settings. Display and Appearance: - desk.cpl: Opens Display Settings. - control color: Customizes window colors. - dpiscaling: Opens display scaling settings. - ms-settings:personalization: Opens Personalization settings. - ms-settings:themes: Changes desktop themes. - ms-settings:display-advanced: Adjusts advanced display settings. Accessibility: - magnify: Opens Magnifier. - narrator: Launches Narrator. - osk: Opens on-screen keyboard. - utilman: Opens Ease of Access Center. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-display: Opens display accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-cursor: Opens cursor accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-mouse: Opens mouse accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-keyboard: Opens keyboard accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-narrator: Opens narrator accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-magnifier: Opens magnifier accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-colorfilter: Opens color filter accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-highcontrast: Opens high contrast accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-closedcaptioning: Opens closed captioning accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-audio: Opens audio accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-eyecontrol: Opens eye control accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-mousepointer: Opens mouse pointer accessibility settings. Power Management: - powercfg.cpl: Opens Power Options. - ms-settings:powersleep: Adjusts power and sleep settings. - powercfg /batteryreport: Generates a battery report. - powercfg /energy: Creates an energy efficiency report. - powercfg /hibernate: Enables or disables hibernation. - powercfg /deviceenablewake: Enables a device to wake the computer. - powercfg /devicedisablewake: Disables a device from waking the computer.

Winsage

December 7, 2024

How Can You Change DNS Settings on Your Windows 10 laptop?

Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) provides internet access and DNS addresses, which are essential for navigating the web. However, relying solely on your ISP's DNS servers can lead to privacy issues, slower speeds, and unreliability. Third-party DNS services can enhance the internet experience on Windows 10. The Domain Name System (DNS) translates website names into IP addresses, and any disruptions can hinder browsing. Changing DNS settings can improve internet speed and safety, with options for parental controls. To change DNS settings on Windows 10, users should access Advanced Network Settings, select the connection to modify, choose IP Version 4 (TCP/IP v4), and enter the preferred and alternate DNS server addresses. iTop VPN is a service that protects online activities, encrypts traffic, alters IP addresses, and safeguards DNS settings. It offers a fast and free service, DNS protection from unauthorized changes, privacy security features, and the ability to unblock content.

Winsage

December 5, 2024

Acquisition of End User License failed, Event ID 1014 [Fix]

Event ID 1014 indicates that the Acquisition of End User License failed, which can occur during Microsoft 365 deployment or the activation of a new Windows computer. Solutions to address this issue include: 1. Disable Automatically detect settings in LAN settings. 2. Ensure a consistent network during activation. 3. Disable Proxy or VPN connections. 4. Reset the Activation Timer using the command slmgr /rearm. 5. Activate the Windows machine to a Key Management Services (KMS) using the command PLACEHOLDER5852eabe88a412c9 followed by PLACEHOLDER223497629b2020eb. 6. Repair Office or Microsoft 365 through the Apps settings. Event ID 4625 pertains to failed logon attempts in the Windows event log.

Tech Optimizer

November 17, 2024

Bitdefender Total Security review: Great, easy to use protection

Bitdefender Total Security is a mid-tier antivirus solution that includes antivirus, firewall, ransomware defenses, network, web, and email protection. It monitors for brute force attacks, malicious links, and harmful attachments, and offers a spam filter for Outlook and Thunderbird, as well as controls for webcam and microphone access. Additional features include a secure browser, limited VPN access, tracker blocking, parental controls, a vulnerability scanner, and anti-theft tools. It is compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, though not all features are available on every platform. The pricing for Bitdefender Total Security includes a five-device plan for the first year, transitioning to a lower annual fee thereafter, and a ten-device plan with a similar pricing structure. Users can request refunds within 30 days of renewal or purchase, and discounts are available from various retailers. Installation is user-friendly, but users should be cautious during account setup. The application features a clean interface with a shield icon indicating security status. Bitdefender provides real-time protection, scheduled and manual scans, a vulnerability scanner, and controls over the Windows firewall. The VPN offers limited daily bandwidth. Customer support is available through various channels, including email, chat, and phone. In independent tests, Bitdefender has a 100% detection rate for zero-day attacks and a 99.6% success rate in real-world protection tests, with minimal impact on system performance, although it may slow down mid-range and budget PCs during intensive scans.

Winsage

November 2, 2024

Frustrated with Windows 11? Nitrux Linux is the OS you deserve

Nitrux is a modern Linux operating system designed for speed, simplicity, and elegance. The latest version, Nitrux 3.7.1, features an updated Linux 6.11.5-1 system, focusing on performance, security, and compatibility. It includes software enhancements like Firefox 132.0, MESA 24.2.4 for graphics, and the latest Nvidia and AMD drivers, along with support for new hardware such as Qualcomm’s Wi-Fi 6 and Intel graphics. Performance improvements are aimed at gamers and developers, with enhanced network settings, memory optimizations, and a redesigned display manager (SDDM). New GameMode support optimizes settings for gaming, and security measures have been strengthened against network attacks. The KZones feature allows users to snap windows into custom zones, and soft word wrapping is enabled by default in the micro editor for developers. Users can download Nitrux 3.7.1 and run it as a live OS to test its capabilities.

Winsage

November 1, 2024

Try fixing your Windows 11 24H2 network issues with these steps

Users have reported network connectivity issues following the Windows 11 24H2 update. Troubleshooting steps include: 1. Querying the IP address by using commands in an administrative command line session: PLACEHOLDERc1d7ab4061dad558 and PLACEHOLDERcb0300d14ca9cfb4. 2. Setting static DNS servers by configuring the Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) settings to use 8.8.8.8 (Google's DNS) and 1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare's DNS). 3. Setting a static IP address by entering a unique IP address, subnet, and gateway in the Properties window of the network connection. 4. Resetting network settings by navigating to Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings > Network reset. 5. Reinstalling the network adapter driver through Device Manager by updating the driver and selecting from available drivers. These methods aim to restore internet connectivity for affected users.

Winsage

October 11, 2024

Windows 11’s 2024 update is now also killing internet connections

Users are experiencing various issues with the Windows 11 24H2 update, including blue screen crashes, disappearing mouse cursors, and a cache of undeletable files. The 2024 update is causing internet connectivity problems, with affected users reporting that their devices connect to the network but do not have internet access, often receiving an IP address starting with 169. Despite updating drivers and resetting network settings, many users have found these solutions ineffective. Some users initially had internet access after the first restart post-update but lost connectivity after subsequent restarts. The recommended solution for those affected is to roll back to the previous version, Windows 11 23H2, which has resolved issues for some users, although it is not guaranteed to work for everyone.

Winsage

October 1, 2024

New Research Reveals Windows Event Logs Key to Identifying Ransomware Attacks

Recent investigations by cybersecurity experts have revealed that specific ransomware variants leave identifiable traces in Windows Event Logs, enhancing organizations' ability to detect human-operated ransomware attacks. JPCERT/CC confirmed that ransomware families such as Conti, Phobos, Midas, BadRabbit, and Bisamware exhibit unique signatures in event logs. Conti generates event IDs 10000 and 10001, Phobos leaves traces with event IDs 612, 524, and 753, Midas is marked by Event ID 7040, BadRabbit installs cscc.dat documented in Event ID 7045, and Bisamware is indicated by Event IDs 1040 and 1042. While event logs cannot prevent attacks, they are crucial for damage investigations and understanding attack methodologies. Experts recommend centralizing Event ID 7045 logs, implementing automated detection systems, and utilizing PowerShell scripts to monitor system logs for suspicious activities. Organizations should also develop comprehensive log collection systems, advanced hunting queries, and custom detection rules to improve ransomware detection capabilities.

Winsage

September 30, 2024

JPCERT shares Windows Event Log tips to detect ransomware attacks

Japan's Computer Emergency Response Center (JPCERT/CC) has identified specific Windows Event Logs that can help detect ransomware attacks. The four types of logs analyzed are Application, Security, System, and Setup logs. Notable ransomware variants and their associated event IDs include: - Conti: Detected through event IDs 10000 and 10001. - Phobos: Leaves traces when deleting system backups via event IDs 612, 524, and 753. - Midas: Alters network settings, leaving event ID 7040. - BadRabbit: Records event ID 7045 during encryption installation. - Bisamware: Logs the start (event ID 1040) and end (event ID 1042) of a Windows Installer transaction. Other ransomware variants such as Shade, GandCrab, AKO, AvosLocker, BLACKBASTA, and Vice Society leave behind event IDs 13 and 10016, linked to permission issues when accessing COM applications to delete Volume Shadow Copies. JPCERT/CC notes that while older ransomware like WannaCry and Petya did not leave traces in Windows logs, modern strains do exhibit detectable patterns. In 2022, the SANS Institute published a guide on detecting ransomware using Windows Event Logs.