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Tutorials

Useful tutorials on various PC troubleshooting topics. Video tutorials.

How to play Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 on Mac

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Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a captivating RPG that intertwines a poignant narrative with engaging turn-based combat. Set in a world where humanity faces a collective terminal diagnosis, the game explores themes of loss, grief, and the human condition against a fantastical backdrop. The story begins 67 years after a cataclysmic event called the Fracture, which left the Continent shattered and its last inhabitants residing in the surreal city of Lumière. Players join an expedition to save humanity from an ominous entity known as the Paintress, who has been counting down to extinction. The game offers a unique combat system that combines traditional JRPG mechanics with reactive, parry-heavy action, demanding precision and focus akin to an action game. Its well-developed characters and emotionally charged storyline are brought to life by a talented voice cast, including Charlie Cox and Andy Serkis, adding depth and authenticity to its narrative. Visually, the game is stunning, with dreamlike locales and a soundtrack that blends traditional and contemporary styles. While the exploration aspect may feel linear, the dynamic combat and memorable boss fights make up for it, offering players thrilling strategic challenges. The game's popularity is driven by its imaginative reinterpretation of familiar mechanics and its heartfelt storytelling. For Mac users, it is important to note that while the game is primarily available for PC, running it on a Mac might require additional software such as a Windows emulator or compatibility layer like Wine, depending on the system requirements and availability of a native Mac version.
SYSTEM_THREAD_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED BSoD error

How to fix SYSTEM_THREAD_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED BSoD error in Windows 11/10

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Encountering the SYSTEM_THREAD_EXCEPTION_NOT_HANDLED error on your Windows 11 or 10 PC can be alarming, as it often leads to the infamous Blue Screen of Death (BSoD). This error typically means that a system thread in Windows generated an exception that the error handler did not catch. Most commonly, this problem arises due to corrupted, outdated, or incompatible drivers, but it can also be triggered by faulty hardware, system file corruption, or excessive memory load. The error can cause your computer to enter a restart loop, making it difficult to access Windows normally. It may be accompanied by a specific driver file name (such as atikmdag.sys, nvlddmkm.sys, or igdkmd64.sys), which hints at the device causing trouble. Malfunctioning graphics or network drivers are frequent culprits, especially after recent updates or hardware changes. In some cases, incompatible or faulty RAM and even malware infections can contribute to the issue. This error can interrupt your workflow, and if left unresolved, it can potentially lead to data loss. That’s why it’s crucial to address the error promptly and thoroughly. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to fix this error and get your system running smoothly again. By following these troubleshooting steps, you can resolve the issue and help prevent future occurrences.

How to remove CRFILE Ransomware and decrypt .CRFILE2 files

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CRFILE Ransomware is a malicious software belonging to the MedusaLocker family designed to encrypt files on a victim’s computer and demand a ransom for their decryption. Once the ransomware infects a system, it appends a distinctive .CRFILE2 extension to the encrypted files, effectively locking them from access. The encryption process employs a combination of RSA and AES algorithms, which are well-known for their complexity and efficiency in securing data against unauthorized decryption. Upon successful encryption, CRFILE Ransomware generates a ransom note, typically titled READ_NOTE.html, which is placed in accessible directories on the compromised system. This note warns victims against attempting third-party recovery solutions and insists that only the attackers possess the decryption keys necessary to unlock the files.

How to remove Se7en Ransomware and decrypt .se7en files

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Se7en Ransomware is a malicious program identified as part of the Babuk ransomware family, which gains access to targets through various deceptive tactics, including infected email attachments, pirated software, and malicious advertisements. Once inside a system, it begins the encryption process by converting files into inaccessible formats, thereby disrupting typical data access. The files affected by this ransomware are marked with a .se7en extension, transforming filenames such as 1.jpg into 1.jpg.se7en, making it clear which data has been compromised. This encryption method renders the files unusable without the correct decryption key, which attackers claim to possess. Upon completing the encryption, the ransomware generates a How To Restore Your Files.txt ransom note on compromised devices, usually placed in visible directories to ensure victims notice it quickly. This note serves not only as a warning but also as a set of instructions, asserting that encryption can only be undone by securing a decryption tool from the attackers, often involving a financial transaction conducted through anonymous platforms such as Bitcoin.

How to remove Numec Ransomware and decrypt .numec files

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Numec Ransomware is a malicious software designed to encrypt the files on a victim's computer system, effectively locking them out of their own data. It appends the .numec extension to the filenames of encrypted files, turning a previously accessible document into an unusable format that requires decryption to be opened again. This ransomware employs sophisticated encryption algorithms that make it nearly impossible to decrypt the files without the specific decryption key that the attackers possess. When files are encrypted, they are typically stored in a folder named "EncryptedFiles" on the victim's desktop. Furthermore, a ransom note, which is found under the filename GetFilesBack.txt, is dropped on the system, providing instructions on how to potentially regain access to the locked files. Unfortunately, decrypting these files is a challenge; no publicly available decryption tool can handle this particular ransomware variant. Victims are therefore faced with the dilemma of relying on potentially unsafe methods to recover their files.
INVALID_DATA_ACCESS_TRAP BSoD error

How to fix INVALID_DATA_ACCESS_TRAP BSoD error in Windows 11/10

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INVALID_DATA_ACCESS_TRAP error is a Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) issue that can suddenly interrupt your workflow by forcing your Windows 11 or 10 system to shut down. Unlike ordinary application crashes, BSoD errors like this one signal that the Windows kernel has encountered a critical problem it cannot safely recover from, often to avoid further system or data corruption. This error typically arises due to problems with hardware compatibility, corrupted system files, outdated or faulty device drivers, or even malware infections. Users often report seeing this error when upgrading to Windows 11, especially using a bootable USB, or during routine Windows Updates. Sometimes, the system may not meet the minimum hardware requirements, or third-party antivirus software could interfere with the update process. Device drivers, especially for network adapters, printers, or monitors, can also be at fault if outdated or incompatible. Corrupted disk sectors or missing installation files are other frequent causes. Peripheral devices, such as external USB drives or printers, may also trigger this error if they malfunction. Malware infections can corrupt essential files, leading to this problem as well. Troubleshooting requires a methodical approach because the root cause can vary widely from system to system. Understanding the possible reasons behind the INVALID_DATA_ACCESS_TRAP BSoD makes it easier to apply targeted solutions and restore your system’s stability.

How to remove Crone Ransomware and decrypt .crone files

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Crone Ransomware is a malicious program that encrypts files on infected computers, rendering them inaccessible to users. After encrypting the files, it appends the .crone extension to their original names, making them easily identifiable as encrypted. For instance, a file named document.pdf would become document.pdf.crone. This ransomware employs robust cryptographic algorithms, making file recovery without the attackers' assistance nearly impossible. Once the encryption process is complete, the ransomware drops a ransom note titled How To Restore Your Files.txt. The note is typically found in various folders containing encrypted files and provides instructions, often in both English and Russian, on how to pay the ransom to obtain a decryption tool. Victims are usually demanded to pay in Bitcoin to a specified wallet address, highlighting the anonymous nature of these transactions. It's important to note that paying the ransom does not guarantee file recovery, as many cybercriminals do not deliver the promised decryption tool.

How to remove Warning Ransomware and decrypt .warning!_16 files

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Warning Ransomware, part of the infamous GlobeImposter family, is a malicious software that encrypts files on infected systems, holding them hostage until a ransom is paid. This ransomware appends the .warning!_16 extension to each encrypted file, which is a tell-tale sign of this specific malware variant. It utilizes robust RSA and AES encryption algorithms to lock the victim's files, making them inaccessible without the decryption key held by the attackers. Following encryption, the ransomware generates a ransom note titled HOW_TO_BACK_FILES.html in each affected directory. This note informs the victim that their files are encrypted and warns against using third-party recovery solutions, as they could irreversibly damage the files. The note further instructs the victim on how to contact the attackers—via email or a Tor chat link—to negotiate the ransom payment, with a scare-tactic warning that the ransom will increase if contact is not made within 72 hours.