Category: Microsoft Windows

  • How to Check Windows Recovery Environment

    How to Check Windows Recovery Environment

    Let’s have a look at this article on how to check Windows recovery environment in Windows 11. The Windows Recovery Environment offers different options that play an integral role in helping to repair a bad operating system. Windows puts the Recovery Environment on a separate, hidden partition accessible only through Disk Management. This is done to protect against users making changes that could be disastrous by mistake. However, accidents can and do occur.

    Check Windows Recovery Environment is Enabled

    To check the status of the Recovery Environment, run Command Prompt with Admin rights and enter in, or copy and paste, the below command.

    reagentc /info
    Check Windows Recovery Environment

    If the status returns as Enabled, you are all good. If it returns as Disabled, then run the below command:

    reagentc /enable

    Boot into the Recovery Environment

    There are different ways to boot into the Recovery Environment (Advanced Startup). Read my article, where I explain different methods in detail and explain how to access advanced startup options in Windows 11.
    You can create a desktop shortcut to boot into the Recovery Environment automatically.

    Windows advance options

    A corrupt Recovery Environment or a missing one isn’t good, but, fortunately, it is quite an easy fix. The most effective method to rectify a missing or corrupt Recovery Environment is to perform an in-place upgrade.

    A few requirements before starting the in-place upgrade are as follows:
    Make sure you are logged in as an administrator.
    You must disconnect all external peripherals except the keyboard, mouse, and LAN cable.
    Turn off third-party security products that offer real-time protection, including antivirus software.
    Now, you can download and run the Media Creation Tool.

    Accept the license terms, then select the option to Upgrade this PC now. Click Next and follow the prompts (ensure the option to Keep personal files and apps is enabled).

    This type of in-place upgrade will not only fix a corrupt or missing recovery environment but can also fix several serious Windows issues.

    An active and pristine Recovery Environment offers many useful tools. But remember, I can’t emphasize enough that the best recovery tool is a backup plan that entails routinely making and archiving system image backups.

  • How to Fix the RPC Server is Unavailable

    How to Fix the RPC Server is Unavailable

    In this blog, we will explore how to fix the error the RPC server is unavailable that stops you from connecting to your VPN servers when using the Windows operating system. We will provide a solution for the issue of the system not logging you on due to the following error: the RPC server is unavailable, and Windows 10 can’t log.

    The RPC server is unavailable

    What is RPC?

    The RPC (remote procedure call) is a protocol that allows multiple processes on a computer to communicate with each other to perform a task. An RPC server cannot communicate with another computer on the same network, resulting in an error.

    the RPC server is unavailable when logging on; the Proton VPN app can’t configure DNS settings properly.

    Reason

    There are some reasons for this problem.
    Incorrect DNS settings.
    Incorrect time and time zone settings are necessary.
    The TCP/IP NetBIOS Helper service is not working.
    The Remote Registry service is not working.

    Possible Fix to RPC server unavailable Error

    Follow the steps below the instructions.
    If the first step doesn’t work, then move on to the second step.

    Reset your PC
    Flush your DNS cache
    Make sure all RPC services are running on your computer
    Verify RPC isn’t blocked by your firewall
    Boot PC using a normal startup
    Enable IPv6 and file & printer sharing
    Edit your registry settings

    Flush your DNS cache to Fix RPC server unavailable error

    Search for the command prompt and Run as administrator.

    ipconfig /flushsdns
    ipconfig /renew
    Flushdns command

    Now, attempt to connect to Proton VPN and see if the issue is resolved.

    The screenshots used in this blog are from Windows 10; however, the instructions for Windows 11 are almost the same as the instructions for earlier versions of Windows.

    Restart Services to Fix the RPC server is unavailable remote desktop

    Make sure that all RPC services are running on your computer.
    Search for the Services app and run as an administrator.

    Find the DCOM Server Process Launcher service and right-click on it, then choose properties.

    Services

    Ensure that:
    The startup type is set to Automatic.
    Service status is running.
    If they don’t, set the Startup type to Automatic and start the service.

    Remote Procedure Call (RPC).

    Remote Procedure Call (RPC) Locator

    RPC Endpoint Mapper

    Restart your computer and check if the issue is fixed.

    Boot Using Normal Startup

    Open the run box (Windows + R key), type msconfig, and open it.

    In the General tab, make sure Normal startup is selected. If it isn’t, select it, then click OK and restart your PC to see if the issue is resolved.

    Verify Internet Protocol

    An RPC server is unavailable. RDP may be caused by a misconfigured local network connection. Enabling IPv6 and File and printer sharing on the network can fix the problem.

    Right-click on the network connection and select Properties.

    Network connections

    Click the following boxes, then click OK.
    File and Printer Sharing for Microsoft Networks
    Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)
    Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6)

    Ethernet properties

    Restart your computer and see if the problem is fixed.

    Verify that RPC Isn’t Blocked by your Firewall

    Search for the Firewall & network protection system settings and open it.
    Click Allow an app through the firewall.
    Locate Remote Assistance and ensure that both its Public and Private boxes are checked.
    If you make any changes, select Save and restart your system to verify if the issue is resolved.
    A selective startup is suitable for troubleshooting problems, but it may prevent RPC services from loading.

    Edit your registry settings

    Type regedit in the run box and select ok.

    Back up your registry by clicking File and Export.

    Warning: Do not skip this step. Changing the registry can seriously damage your Windows installation. Always make sure that you possess a backup to restore.

    Go to the following path.

    Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\RpcSs
    Double-click on Start.
    RPC server is unavailable registry editor

    Set Value data to 2 and click OK.

    Repeat step (with Value data: 2) for the below Registry keys:

    Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\DcomLaunch
    Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\RpcEptMapper
  • How To Change Calculator Theme in Windows 11

    How To Change Calculator Theme in Windows 11

    In this article, we will learn how to change Calculator theme in Windows 11. Many people use calculators on their Windows computers. Did you know that you can modify the Windows calculator theme? That is right! If you want to switch to the dark side, the steps below will guide you through how it is done. We have seen how to alter the theme on Google, Mozilla Firefox, and even on social media apps like Instagram and Facebook. Now, it is time for the calculator.

    Now that you know how to do this on all those, it is time to begin your new class.

    Change Calculator Theme in Windows

    This will be shown on my Windows 11 desktop, but you can also use these steps on your Windows 10.

    There are a few ways to locate your calculator app, but I appreciate doing it this way. Click in the search field, type in Calculator, and you will see the app appear. Click to open it.

    Search calculator in Windows 11

    Once the calculator is open, locate the top left. You will see the three horizontal menu lines. Click on it.
    On the menu that appears, scroll down to the bottom for Settings and click on it.

    Calculator navigation bar

    In the settings will pop up, and you will see two options:
    Appearance (App Themes)
    About (Calculator)
    You need to click on the App theme option.

    Calculator app theme

    A drop-down menu will display, and this will show you some options:
    Light
    Dark
    Use a system setting that matches the Windows theme setting.
    Click the radio button to the left of the one you wish to select.

    Here, you can choose the app theme. You have learned how to do this. It is time to share your experiences with others.

    Change calculator theme in Windows

    Enable Dark Mode via Personalization Settings

    As you observed earlier, Calculator’s default App theme setting is set to Use system setting. If you choose a Dark theme for Windows, the Calculator app will reflect the changes. This method would be beneficial if you prefer the Dark mode and would prefer the other apps and elements to adapt to it.

    To enable Dark Mode in the Calculator app via Windows Settings, right-click on the Windows start icon in the Taskbar or hold the Windows key + X to open the Quick Access menu and choose Settings app from the list of options. Alternatively, you can have the Windows key + I to open the Settings app directly.

    In the Windows Settings app, you will find several tabs on the left. Select Personalization, and next, click on Colors on the right.

    Windows 11 settings personalization

    Next, click on the drop-down menu to select your mode option.

    You will now find three options: Light, which is selected by default, Dark, which we will be selecting, and Custom, which allows you to set different modes for Windows elements and apps. In this case, Dark and Custom would do, but we would choose the latter since we intend for the changes to be applied across the system.

    Change them color in Windows

    Launch the Calculator app as discussed earlier, and the theme will be altered along with the other Windows apps and elements.

    Now that you have learned how to enable Dark mode for the calculator app, you can say farewell to the constant eye strain and focus on the work at hand.

  • How to Find PC’s Model Number in Windows 11

    How to Find PC’s Model Number in Windows 11

    In this article, we will show you how to find PC’s model number on Windows 11 and if you plan to upgrade your PC. You wish to get the model number on your computer for some purpose. Do you know how to check the computer model number on your device if you’re running Windows 11? This post has different easy methods.

    Identifying your PC’s model number in Windows 11 might help you solve hardware problems and ensure compatibility with accessories and devices.
    The manufacturer of a product assigns the model number, a name or code specific to that product and identifies its features. On the other hand, the model name is a label that is easy for customers to understand and is used for branding and marketing.

    For example, the model’s name, HP Elite, doesn’t provide specific information about the product other than that it is a workstation under the Elite line. However, the model number, HP EliteDesk 8300, reveals more of the device’s technical specifications and differentiates it from other products in the EliteDesk line.

    Find PC’s Model Number via the System Information

    Open the run box by pressing the Windows + R key, typing msinfo32, and hitting enter, or press the Windows + S key to open the Windows search type “System Information” and open it.

    msinfo32 run box

    You will find computer model number next to “System Model” and the system manufacturer above it.

    Find PC's Model Number

    Find PC’s Model Number via Settings

    Note: You can also get computer model number on the computer’s case or in the user guide. Here are some steps you may take to find it on your computer. Also, the model number is not the same as the serial number; a longer alphabetic code is used to identify each product unit.

    Go to the Settings app, select System, and then About.

    Or search about your PC and open it.

    Search about this PC

    At the top, “Device specifications,” you will find your device’s manufacturer and model number.

    Find PC model number

    Find Out the PC Model Number via the DirectX Diagnostic Tool

    Please follow the steps below to know your PC’s model number using the DirectX Diagnostic Tool.

    Open the Run dialog box by pressing the Windows + R keyboard shortcut.

    Once the dialog box opens, type “dxdiag” and click OK.

    Run dialog box dxdiag

    The DirectX Diagnostic App will open, displaying different tabs. Just click on the “System” tab.

    Under the “System Information” section, you can find the “System Model”, which will give you the name of the model of your device.

    Following these instructions will allow you to quickly find the model’s name of your computer using the DirectX Diagnostic Tool.

    DirectX diagnostic tool see system model

    Find Your Computer Model Number via the Command Prompt

    Using the Command Prompt is another way to find your computer’s model number.

    Click the Windows search icon and search for cmd.

    Right-click on the Command Prompt app from the search result and choose Run as administrator. This will run Command Prompt with administrator rights.
    Copy this command, “wmic csproduct get name, identifyingnumber” and paste it to the Command Prompt and hit Enter.

    The cmdlet will display your computer model number.

    Find PC model number command

    Find Your Computer Model Number via PowerShell Command

    Find Your Computer Model Number via PowerShell CommandOn Windows 11; advanced users can now use Windows PowerShell to check the PC model number.

    Click on the Windows search icon and search for PowerShell.

    Right-click on the PowerShell app from the search result and choose Run as administrator. This will run the PowerShell app as an administrator.

    Copy this command, “Get-CimInstance -ClassName Win32_bios” and paste it to PowerShell, then hit enter.

    Your computer model number can be found in the Model section.

    See computer model number PowerShell

    Finally, getting your laptop or computer model and serial number on Windows 11 can be useful in various situations, such as upgrading components, troubleshooting problems, and maintaining an accurate inventory. System Information, Windows PowerShell, Command Prompt, and other utilities in Windows 11 make it simple to find this information. You can quickly note down your computer or laptop’s model and serial numbers, regardless of brand, such as HP, IBM, Dell, Lenovo, Acer, or others.

  • Digital Literacy with Windows: Preparing Students for a Technology-Driven Future

    Digital Literacy with Windows: Preparing Students for a Technology-Driven Future

    In today’s rapidly evolving world, digital literacy has become essential for students as they prepare to navigate a technology-driven future. As technology continues to shape every aspect of our lives, students must develop a strong foundation in digital literacy. In this article, we’ll explore what digital literacy entails, how Windows can play a pivotal role in enhancing this skill set, and provide valuable tips for educators and parents on preparing students for the challenges of the digital age.

    What is Digital Literacy?

    Digital literacy encompasses a range of skills and knowledge that enable individuals to use, understand, and critically evaluate digital technologies effectively. It’s more than just knowing how to use a computer; it involves competencies such as information literacy, media literacy, online communication, and cybersecurity awareness.

    Windows and Digital Literacy

    Windows, the ubiquitous operating system developed by Microsoft, offers a powerful platform for fostering digital literacy among students. Its user-friendly interface, vast applications, and integration with the Microsoft Office suite make it an ideal choice for educators and learners. Windows provides a seamless environment for students to explore digital tools, collaborate on projects, and develop problem-solving skills. From mastering essential software to understanding file management, Windows can empower students to become confident and proficient technology users.

    Tips on Preparing Students for a Technology-Driven Future

    In today’s rapidly advancing digital landscape, equipping students with the right skills to thrive in a technology-driven world is paramount. Integrating the technology industry seamlessly into the curriculum can play a pivotal role in enhancing students’ digital literacy and preparing them for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Let’s delve deeper into each tip to understand how educators can effectively prepare students for a technology-driven future.

    1. Teach Online Etiquette and Safety

    Teaching students responsible online behavior is essential in a world where online interactions have become the norm. Educators should engage students in discussions about cyberbullying prevention, the importance of respecting others’ digital identities, and the significance of safeguarding personal information. By nurturing good digital citizenship habits, students are better equipped to navigate the virtual realm with empathy, respect, and resilience. Through workshops and open dialogues, educators can empower students to make informed decisions and create a safer online environment for themselves and their peers.

    1. Integrate Technology into Curriculum

    Incorporating technology into the curriculum isn’t just about using computers in the classroom; it’s about transforming learning experiences. Educators can encourage students to harness digital tools for research, creation, and presentation by designing technology-based assignments and projects. Imagine students delving into online Benzinga.com databases to gather information, utilizing multimedia platforms to craft interactive exhibits, and collaborating with peers on virtual projects. This hands-on approach enhances students’ technological proficiency and cultivates critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity—the cornerstones of digital literacy.

    1. Encourage Coding and Problem-Solving

    Coding isn’t just for aspiring programmers; it’s a powerful tool for nurturing logical thinking and problem-solving skills. Introducing students to coding and programming concepts through platforms like Microsoft MakeCode offers them a hands-on experience building and designing within a digital space. As students create algorithms, troubleshoot errors, and witness the tangible results of their code, they develop a deeper understanding of technology’s inner workings. Coding ignites curiosity and experimentation, fostering a growth mindset essential for thriving in an ever-evolving technological landscape.

    1. Utilize Educational Apps

    The Windows Store boasts diverse educational apps that can revolutionize the learning process. Educators can leverage these apps to engage students in subjects ranging from mathematics and science to language arts and history. Interactive simulations, virtual labs, and engaging quizzes make learning more captivating and personalized. For instance, students can explore complex mathematical concepts through interactive visualizations or embark on a virtual journey through historical events. These apps reinforce classroom lessons and empower students to take control of their learning journey, sparking a lifelong love for learning.

    1. Collaboration and Communication Tools

    In a digitally connected world, effective communication and collaboration transcend physical boundaries. Teaching students to use collaborative tools like Microsoft Teams equips them with the skills needed for successful teamwork within and beyond the classroom. Through virtual discussions, group projects, and online brainstorming sessions, students learn to navigate the dynamics of digital interaction, share ideas cohesively, and work together harmoniously. These experiences mirror real-world collaboration scenarios, preparing students to integrate into collaborative professional environments seamlessly.

    Conclusion

    In an era where digital literacy is as critical as traditional literacy, preparing students for a technology-driven future is a shared responsibility of educators, parents, and society. By embracing the capabilities of Windows, educators can empower students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in a digital landscape. Remember, digital literacy is not just about using technology; it’s about understanding, analyzing, and harnessing it effectively.

    As you embark on this journey, explore Microsoft’s Education Hub for comprehensive resources, training, and tools to enhance digital literacy in your educational community.

    BIO

    Elaine Bailey is a seasoned educational consultant and content creator specializing in technology integration in modern classrooms. With a background in instructional design, Elaine is passionate about enhancing digital literacy among students to equip them for the demands of the digital era. Through a variety of roles, including curriculum development and teacher training, Elaine has been dedicated to promoting innovative teaching methods that foster critical thinking, creativity, and effective communication in the digital age. As an advocate for 21st-century learning, Elaine’s work centers on empowering educators and students alike to embrace the power of technology for enhanced educational outcomes.

    Read more: How to Install Windows 11 in Virtualbox Guide

  • VHD Virtual Hard Disk Recovery Step by Step

    VHD Virtual Hard Disk Recovery Step by Step

    A VHD Virtual Hard Disk Recovery file is just like a physical hard drive that has elements like, file systems, disk partitions a boot record, saved data, etc. Loss or corruption of one such file means losing the entire data stored on the VHD. Here is everything you may want to know about how to recover or repair VHD Files.

    Virtual Hard Disk Just like physical hard drives, VHD files are at risk for accidental deletion, corruption, virus attacks, and other reasons of data loss. The ability to restore data from a VHD image could be very valuable.

    Step by step attach and Copy files from a VHD

    I needed some important files that I had backed up as a WindowsImageBackup to the external drive. The only option I could retrieve data from my external disk was buried in system images that I had created. You might think my only way is to restore those system images.

    VHD Virtual Hard Disk Recovery Mount a VHD File in Windows

    Please make sure you have your VHD file accessible. Right-click on the Windows start button and then select Disk Management.

    right click start menu windows

    Select the Action menu and then Attach VHD.

    disk management attach vhd

    Select browse button.

    attach virtual hard disk

    Browse the location of your VHD file. I am using a VHD file stored as a Windows System Image.


    Click open.

    browse virtual hard disk

    Select ok.

    attach virtual hard disk

    The virtual hard disk file is then mounted in Disk Management, just as a physical drive.

    disk management

    Browse your VHD disk volume to see your data.

    windows explorer

    When you have done using the VHD, simply right click on VHD disk and then select Detach VHD.

    disk management detach vhd

    What to do if your VHD is not assigned a drive letter

    Sometimes your VHD might not have a drive letter assigned when you attach it, especially if it is the first time you are attaching the file.
    Right-click the VHD and then select change drive letter and paths.

    disk management change drive letter

    Click Add button.

    change drive letter

    Choose the radio box Assign the following drive letter and then select in the drive letter list box. Choose an available drive letter and then click ok twice.


    Add drive letter or path

    For more details click here

  • How to Install Windows 11 in Virtualbox Guide

    How to Install Windows 11 in Virtualbox Guide

    In this guide, I will show you how to install Windows 11 in VirtualBox in Windows OS. On 24th June, Microsoft announced a new Windows 11. However, if you would like to install and test the new Windows 11 OS then it’s best to install it as a virtual machine like Oracle VirtualBox.

    Please make sure you have Windows 11 ISO for VirtualBox.

    Downlaod Windows 11 Insider Preview

    After that, I would suggest you check your PC Health Check before installing Windows 11. Because it would helpful for you to know whether your system is compatible with the new Windows OS or not.

    Download Oracle Virtualbox

    Download Virtualbox Extension Pack

    Windows 11 System Requirements
    Processor – 1 GHz or faster
    RAM – 4 GB of RAM
    Storage – 64 GB or larger storage
    System firmware – UEFI, Secure Boot capable
    TPM – Trusted Platform Module version 2.0 version 2.0

    Graphics card – DirectX 12 or afterward with WDDM 2.0
    Display – Display (720p)

    Watch Video on How to Install Windows 11 in Virtualbox

    Download and Install VirtualBox Application

    Install the Oracle VM VirtualBox

    Double click to run the VirtualBox installation and then click Next.

    Welcome to virtualbox setup

    Click next.

    custom setup VM VirtualBox

    Custom setup, click next.

    Virtualbox custom setup

    Ready to install Oracle VM VirtualBox, click install.

    Ready to install VM virtualbox

    Click finish.

    Virtualbox installed

    Install Virtualbox Extension Pack

    It is a great utility provided by Oracle Corporation. This utility will helps you in improving & adding some additional features to the Virtualbox VM. Installing this plug-in you can get features (Mouse Integration, Drag & Drop, USB support, Internet Connectivity, and etc…
    Double-click on the extension pack file and then select the Install button.

    Install Virtubox extension pack

    Accept agreement.

    Virtualbox license

    Extension Pack successfully installed.

    Virtualbox extension pack

    Create Windows 11 Virtual Machine

    Choose the New icon to create Windows 11 VM in Virtualbox.

    Virtualbox manager

    VirtualBox creates a virtual machine wizard,
    Name – Type a virtual machine name
    Type – Microsoft Windows.
    Version – Windows 10 (64-bit) and then click on Next.

    Virtualbox create virtual machine

    Windows 11 the recommended 4GB memory, adjust the slider, and then select next.

    Select RAM Size

    Under the Hard disk section, choose to create a virtual hard disk now and then select Create.

    Create a virtual hard disk now

    VHD (Virtual Hard Disk) and then select next.

    VHD (Virtual Hard Disk)

    Dynamically allocated and then select next.

    Dynamically allocated

    Allocate the VM disk size and then click Create.

    Select Disk Size

    Customize Windows 11 VM

    Select the Settings button to edit Windows 11 VM.

    Virtualbox manager Settings

    Select System menu, select Motherboard, and then uncheck the Floppy.

    virtualbox system

    Click on the Processor menu and increase the processors.

    virtualbox processor

    Go to the Display option, select Screen, and increase the video memory (128MB).

    virtualbox display

    Select Storage tab, select Empty, click on the blue disk icon and then select Choose/Create a Virtual Optical Disk.

    virtualbox virtual optical disk

    Click Add.

    virtualbox optical disk selector

    Select the Windows 11 ISO and select Open.

    browse virtual optical disk file

    Click Choose button and then ok.

    virtualbox optical disk selector

    Installing Windows 11 in VirtualBox in Windows 10

    Click Start.

    virtualbox manager

    Select the language and click Next.

    Windows setup language

    Click Install Now.

    Windows install now

    Select I don’t have a product key.

    I don’t have a product key

    Select your Windows 11 Edition and then click next.

    select the operating system

    Accept the license terms and then click Next.

    applicable notice and license

    Select Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).

    Windows 11 custom install

    Click next.

    windows setup unallocated space

    Windows installation process.

    installing windows

    Windows 11 Basic Settings

    Select your region and then click Yes.

    country or region windows 11

    Select the Keyboard layout and click Yes.

    keyboard layout windows 11

    If you need to add another layout, choose to Add layout otherwise Skip it.
    Setup for personal use and then click Next.

    setup for personal use

    Add your Microsoft account and click next
    Choose privacy settings and click Accept.

    windows 11 privacy setting

    Windows 11 is successfully installed on VirtualBox.

    windows 11 desktop

    Related: Install Windows 11 on VMware Workstation

    Read more: How to Install MacOS Ventura VirtualBox on Windows.

  • How to Fix NetFx3 Error While Installing SQL Server

    How to Fix NetFx3 Error While Installing SQL Server

    In this article, I will explain how to fix NetFx3 error while installing SQL Server. While Installing SQL Server 2014 on Windows Server 2012 R2 I have received the below error, which indicates .Net 3.5 is not installed on this machine.
    We were installing SQL Server 2014 on a Windows Server 12 virtual machine, and the installation was already in progress when we received the following error:

    Due to development challenges, people still use SQL 2014 in production. In these cases, one of my clients told me that their application vendor hasn’t approved SQL 2014 and above, so they were forced to install SQL 2014.
    In windows server 2012 R2 .Net framework 3.5 do not install by default.

    NetFx3 error

    Fix NetFx3 Error

    Let’s have a look at how to install .Net 3.5 on Windows Server 2012.
    As per the error message in the pic above, we need to enable NetFx3. It means .Net Framework in the Server Manager.

    Server Manager

    It will new window, click Next.

    Add roles and features

    Choose Role-based or feature based installation and then choose next.

    Role based or features based

    Click next

    Select Server from the pool

    Select Server from the pool.

    Server roles

    Choose .Net Framework 3.5 Feature and click next.

    Server features .net framework

    If your server doesn’t have all the files which were supposed to add this .netframework, then on the next screen you might see the warning. This is the reason why SQL Setup was unable to install the feature. So, you need to alternative the alternative source path. This needs to be from the Server 2012 installation media.

    Click on Specify an alternate source path.

    Specify alternate source path

    Find windows media directory and go to Source\sxs path Mine is installed in D:\ (Maybe you have a different drive) so for me it’s D:\Source\sxs
    Provide directory path and then click OK.

    Specify alternate source path

    Select Install

    Fix NetFx3 error

    It will take a while and then your installation is done.

    Feature installation in progress

    You can use enable .netfex3 error by using below command
    dism /online /enable-feature /featurename:NetFx3 /source:D:\sources\sxs

    .netfex3 error fix command
  • How to Access Windows Boot Options Menu

    How to Access Windows Boot Options Menu

    In this post, I will show you how to access Windows boot options menu. There are many ways to enter Windows 10 advance boot menu with each having its own use case, and let’s take a look at these options.

    If your Windows OS is working fine and then you can access the Windows desktop, and you can use the below methods to access Windows 10 boot options.
    Just hold down the Shift key from your keyboard and then restart the system.

    choose an option troubleshoot

    How to Enter Windows BIOS on a Windows PC

    Select Windows Key and then select Settings.

    windows start button

    Select Update & Security.

    Windows settings

    From the left menu select Recovery

    Under Advanced startup click Restart Now. The computer will restart to a special menu.

    windows settings recovery options

    Click Troubleshoot.

    choose an option troubleshoot

    Click Advanced options

    troubleshoot advanced options

    Choose UEFI Firmware Settings.

    advanced settings uefi firmware

    If you don’t see UEFI Firmware Settings, then select Startup Settings instead. When your system is restarting, tap (F1, F2 or different) to access the BIOS.

    advanced settings startup

    Click Restart.
    Your PC will reboot and then take you to the BIOS.

    startup settings windows

    Here are the system bios.

    system bios

    Access Windows Boot Options Menu

    Using Command Prompt to access Windows 10 boot menu
    You can also access Windows bios advanced boot options using a quick Command Prompt command.
    Right-click on the Windows 10 Start button and then choose Windows PowerShell (Admin) from the menu.

    windows button right click

    In the PowerShell window, enter shutdown.exe /r /o and then press Enter.

    powershell shutdown.exe /r /o

    A window will pop up with “prompt saying you are being signed out”, just close it and then Windows 10 will restart to boot options. Nevertheless, unlike the above ways where Windows reboots immediately, there will be a little delay before the Windows restart.

    about to be signed out

    For more details please visit Microsoft

  • How to Delete thumbs.db File in Windows Explorer

    How to Delete thumbs.db File in Windows Explorer

    In this article, I will explain how to delete thumbs.db file in Windows Explorer. We sometimes received an error that you can’t delete the file. The action can’t be completed because of the file open by the system. When multiple users are logged in on the Windows server they may have opened the files or sometimes those files are supporting other programs or files for some operations.

    In Server 2012 fix the action can’t be completed because the file is open by the system

    When we check in task manager we might not able to find those files opened and gets a hard time deleting them.

    Unable to delete thumbs.db

    Sometimes we need to reboot the computer to delete these types of files but in a case of a Windows server, we can’t reboot the server.

    So follow these steps to delete thumbs.

    db files.
    Launch the server manager. On the Server Manager, Click on the Tools menu and then Computer management.

    It will show you all of the Windows Server-related information. Now expand the Shared Folders, where you will find three more folders under Shared Folders, click on the Open Files folder.
    It will show you all of the files being open by users logged on the server or who have been disconnected from the server login session but the files are open.

    Computer management open files

    Search for the file in the list you wanted to remove but were unable to remove the file. In my case, it is a thumb.db that is under a folder. In the open files list, right-click open file or folder where the file we want to delete is listed. It will open up a menu and give you the option to delete the file. Click on Close Open File.

    Computer management close open files

    Delete Thumbs.db file

    Now go back to the original location where the file was placed and you wish to delete it. Right-click on the file and then select delete. The file will get deleted.

    Watch Video: How to Delete thumbs.db File in Windows Explorer

  • Install Windows 11 in VMware Workstation 16

    Install Windows 11 in VMware Workstation 16

    In this guide, we will learn how to install Windows 11 in VMware Workstation 16. New Preview version of Microsoft Windows 11 released, and you may be thinking of migrating from the old OS. I am testing a new Windows 11 in VMware Workstation 16.

    Windows 11 specifications, features, and requirements

    Here you can download Windows 11 ISO files.

    Downlaod Windows 11 Insider Preview

    Creating Bootable USB Drive

    You can build a Windows 11 installation media (USB or DVD). How to create Windows 11 bootable USB drive.

    Create a virtual machine in VMware Workstation.

    Open VMware Workstation, select file tab, and then New Virtual Machine.

    vmware workstation file menu

    Choose the type of virtual machine and then click Next.
    Note: Custom – This gives you an option of hardware compatibility.

    new virtual machine wizard custom

    Select Hardware compatibility and then click next.

    virtual machine hardware compatibility

    Guest operating system installation

    Installer disc (CD/DVD)
    Installer disc image file (ISO), I have selected Windows 11 .ISO. Choose the Browse button, select the operating system you want to install, and then click Next.

    guest operating system installation

    Guest operating system (Microsoft Windows) and click next.

    guest operating system workstation

    Enter a virtual machine name and specify a location by clicking on the browse button VM files to be saved or leave it as default settings. Click Next.

    virtual machine name vmware workstation

    Select Firmware Type and click Next.

    firmware type vmware workstation

    Choose number of processors and click next.

    virtual machine processor configuration

    Select Memory for this virtual machine and click next.

    memory for the virtual machine

    Select Network Type and click Next.

    new virtual machine network type

    Click Next.

    new virtual machine controller type

    Default Settings, click next.

    disk type vmware workstation

    Select a disk “create a new virtual disk” and then click Next.

    select a disk vmware workstation

    Specify disk capacity for virtual machine
    Choose store the virtual disk as a single file and then click Next.

    disk capacity vmware workstation

    Click Next.

    specify disk file vmware workstation

    Verify the virtual machine configuration settings and click finish.

    ready to create virtual machine

    Installing Windows 11 on VMware Workstation

    Select Power on this virtual machine.

    vmware workstation 16

    Press any key ….

    press any key to boot

    Click Next.

    windows setup language

    Windows 11 Setup, click Install Now.

    windows install now

    Select I don’t have a product key.

    I don't have product key

    Select Windows 11 OS and then click next.

    windows setup operating system

    Accept Windows 11 applicable notice and license, and then click Next.

    Microsoft software license terms

    Windows setup, select the Custom option.

    windows setup custom install

    If you want to create a partition you can or simply click next.

    installing windows 11 partitions

    Windows 11 installation status.

    installing windows 11 copying file

    Windows 11 welcome screen choose language and then clicks Next.

    country or region windows 11

    Select a keyboard layout and then click next.

    Keyboard layout windows 11

    Click Skip second keyboard layouts.
    Choose select for personal use and then click Next.

    set up for personal use

    Sign in with a Microsoft account or you can use an offline account, (I am using an offline account)
    Type an account name, and then click Next.

    Read more: How to Change Username in Windows 11.

    enter your name windows 11

    Enter your password, confirmed password, and then click Next.

    create windows 11 memorable password

    Choose any 3 security questions and then click next.

    windows 11 security questions

    Privacy setting Windows 11, scroll down, and then click accept.

    windows 11 privacy settings

    It might take few minutes to complete.

    don't turn off your pc

    Windows 11 desktop.

    Windows 11 desktop

    Related: This PC Must Support Secure Boot Windows 11

    Related: Solved: This PC Can’t run Windows 11

    Read more: How to Install Windows 11 in VMware Player.