The primary cause of this error is the detection of cheating software, but it may also be triggered by harmless programs mistakenly identified as malicious by Vanguard.

This error is significant because it does not only block your account but also bans the hardware itself, making it impossible to play on the same device without taking action.

The HWID ban typically lasts for about four months, during which players are expected not to access the game on the banned hardware.

Other possible causes could include the use of a VPN, the Vanguard anti-cheat system not running, or conflicts with other software. This ban usually lasts four months but can sometimes be fixed by reinstalling Windows or the game.

In this article, well discuss possible solutions for this problem.

1. Check Server Status

Server issues in Valorant may lead to errors. Check the server status to ensure they are operational before attempting other solutions.

Server status can be checked at the official site here.

2. Restart Your PC and Game

Occasionally, this error could simply be a temporary glitch that might be fixed with a restart of the game or your computer.

1. Right-click on the Windows icon and select Task Manager.
   
2. Choose any task related to Riot Games and select End task.
   
3. Now restart your computer and see if the issue continues

3. Disable VPN

If youre using a VPN, it might cause problems with the game since VPNs are not allowed while playing, according to the terms of service.

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Network & Internet > VPN.
   
3. Switch off any active VPN connections.

4. Try on a Friends PC

To find out if the issue has to do with your computer, try playing Valorant on a friends PC. This can help determine if its a ban or a technical error.

5. Reinstall Valorant

By uninstalling and then reinstalling Valorant, you remove any corrupted files potentially causing the VAN 152 error.

1. Press Windows + R, type in appwiz.cpl, and press enter.
   
2. Pick Valorant, select it, and select Uninstall.
3. Follow the prompts to uninstall the game.
4. Download and install Valorant again from Riot Games official website here.

6. Clean Install Windows

Some players have fixed the issue by starting over with a clean installation of Windows, which removes all drivers and applications.

For step-by-step guidelines on performing a clean Windows installation, check our guide here.

7. Contact Support

If these solutions do not work, reach out to Riot Games support to find out if there is a ban or a technical issue.

Support is available here.

The post How to Fix the VAN 152 Valorant Error? appeared first on Appuals.

The most common cause of the amdppm.sys error appears to be driver conflicts or outdated firmware. Users often report this issue after upgrading to a newer version of Windows, indicating potential compatibility problems. Additional factors might include corrupted system files or hardware malfunctions, particularly related to the CPU or its power management features.

In this article, we will discuss several methods to solve this issue.

1. Run SFC and DISM

Running SFC (System File Checker) and DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) scans can resolve the Blue Screen of Death issue by repairing any damaged or missing system files that are essential for Windows to operate correctly. SFC checks the integrity of these files and repairs them if necessary, while DISM ensures the repair process has the required data from a healthy Windows image. This can help eliminate system-related causes of the error.

1. Open the Search menu, type cmd, and open the Command Prompt as an Administrator.
   
2. Enter the following commands:

   sfc /scannow
   Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

   

3. After completing the scans, restart your PC.

2. Update your System Drivers

Outdated or corrupt drivers can lead to conflicts and system crashes. By updating, you’re ensuring compatibility, eliminating any corruption or misconfigurations that might have caused the Blue Screen of Death.

1. Click on the Search bar and type Device Manager and open it.
   
2. Right-click on each device and choose Update Driver.
   

Third-party driver updater tools are also available to update the drivers. For more information, see our detailed article on Best Driver Updater.

3. Change Power Settings

Adjusting the power settings can resolve the amdppm.sys Blue Screen of Death by ensuring the CPU receives adequate power to function optimally. Insufficient power may lower the processor’s performance, leading to system instability and crashes. By increasing the processor’s power usage settings, you allow it to maintain stable operation, reducing the likelihood of encountering the error.

1. Press the Search box and search Edit Power Plan and open it.
   
2. Select Change advanced power settings.
   
3. Go to Processor Power management.
4. Adjust the minimum processor state to 95% and the maximum processor state to 95%.
   
5. Hit Apply and click OK.
   

4. Enable Virtualization

Enabling virtualization can resolve the amdppm.sys Blue Screen issue by allowing proper utilization of hardware resources for virtualization tasks and improving system stability. When using applications like Android emulators, which rely on virtualization technology, turning this feature on can prevent conflicts that may lead to system crashes.

1. Open the Search menu, type cmd, and open the Command Prompt as an Administrator.
   
2. Enter the following command to activate virtualization:

   dism.exe /Online /Enable-Feature:Microsoft-Hyper-V /All

   

3. Restart your PC.

5. Reinstall Windows

If other solutions fail, consider reinstalling Windows. Reinstalling Windows resets the system to its original state by erasing existing data and software, which can eliminate any software or settings conflicts that may be causing the amdppm.sys error. This fresh start often resolves hard-to-trace issues tied to system files and configurations.

For instructions on how to perform a clean Windows installation, check our guide here.

The post How to Fix amdppm.sys Blue Screen of Death Issue in Windows? appeared first on Appuals.

Common causes of this issue include outdated or corrupt drivers, which are essential for the proper functioning of Bluetooth and audio devices on your system.

Other triggers for the bthhfenum.sys BSOD may be general hardware conflicts or malfunctions, and occasionally, system updates that were incomplete or introduced compatibility problems.

This article discusses solutions to resolve this issue.

1. Run SFC and DISM

The problem could be due to corrupted system files; running SFC (System File Checker) and DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) utilities is recommended to address this. These tools scan for corrupted files, perform repairs, and restore system integrity.

1. Open the Search menu, type cmd, and run the Command Prompt as an Administrator.
   
2. Enter the following commands:

   sfc /scannow

   Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

   

3. Restart your PC once the processes are completed.

2. Clean Boot Windows

Third-party services can interfere with system files and cause issues. To determine if they are the cause, try performing a clean boot of Windows; this stops all non-Microsoft services from running at startup, which might resolve the problem.

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
   
2. Navigate to the Services tab, tick the Hide all Microsoft Services checkbox, click Disable all, and click OK.
   
3. Press Windows + SHIFT + ESC to open the Task Manager.
4. Switch to the Startup tab and disable all third-party programs.
   

3. Update And Reinstall Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers might also be the root cause of this issue. Updating drivers could solve the problem, and it’s especially recommended to reinstall Audio and Wireless drivers since they are connected to the problematic file.

1. Use the Search box to locate and open Device Manager.
   
2. Right-click on each relevant device and select Update Driver.
   
3. To reinstall drivers, choose ‘Uninstall device’ and restart your PC.
   

4. Update BIOS

Updating the BIOS can resolve the bthhfenum.sys BSOD problem as it updates the motherboard’s firmware to the latest version. This can improve hardware compatibility, fix known bugs, and enhance overall system stability, including the management of Bluetooth and audio functions that rely on the bthhfenum.sys driver.

For a comprehensive guide on how to update your BIOS, see our articles for Lenovo devices and for MSI motherboards.

5. Clean Install Windows

If none of the above solutions work, a clean installation of Windows is advised. This will remove all corrupted software and provide a fresh version of Windows, which may fix the issue.

For a detailed tutorial on how to perform a clean installation of Windows, click here.

The post How to Fix bthhfenum.sys BSOD on Windows? appeared first on Appuals.

Other contributing factors may include improperly configured Windows security settings, software bugs, and outdated Windows versions. The following guide provides various solutions to resolve this issue.

1. Update Windows

Installing the latest Windows updates, which often contain fixes for bugs and issues, may resolve this problem.

1. Click on the Start Button, then click on the Settings icon.
2. Click on Update & Security > Windows Update > Check for updates to initiate an automatic search and installation of the latest Windows updates.
   

2. Deleting Detection History Files

Removing problematic detection history files allows Windows to create new files and potentially resolves the issue.

1. Click on the Start button, type “CMD” in the search box, then right-click on “Command Prompt” and select “Run as Administrator.”
   
2. In the Command Prompt window, enter the following commands sequentially:

   del "C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows Defender\Scans\mpcache*" /s > NUL 2>&1

3. Enter the next command, type ‘Y’, and press Enter to execute.

   del "C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows Defender\Scans\History\Service\DetectionHistory\*"

4. Now, input the following command. If an error appears, stating “The process cannot access the file because it is being used by another process,” you may need to disable Microsoft Defender temporarily. Please refer to our guide on how to turn Windows Defender on or off before retrying these steps.

   del "C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows Defender\Scans\mpenginedb.db"

   

5. Restart your computer, re-enable Microsoft Defender following the guide mentioned above, and check if the issue has been resolved.

3. Reset Window Security

Resetting the Windows Security app can restore its default settings and potentially fix the problem.

1. Click on the Start Button, type “Apps: Windows Security” in the search box, right-click on it, and select “App settings.”
   
2. Within the app settings, find and click on the “Terminate” button, then click the “Reset” button just below it.
   

4. Use Defender UI Overlay

Defender UI is an overlay application for Microsoft Defender with a feature named “clear and repair protection” that can address the missing protection history issue.

1. Download the application from the Defender UI website.
   
2. Execute the downloaded file of Defender UI and adhere to the installation prompts.
3. Open the app, then select the ‘Recommended’ security profile on the welcome screen.
   
4. Click on the ‘Clear and Repair Protection History’ button in the utilities section and confirm the restart when prompted.
   
5. After your computer restarts, check if the issue has been resolved. You may uninstall the Defender UI overlay if desired.

The post How to Resolve the Missing Protection History Issue in Windows? appeared first on Appuals.

If you’re on PC, you might have resorted to mods once you’ve had your fill of the game, to further enhance what you felt were its shortcomings, like the lack of a New Game Plus mode. Like most, you would be using the Mod Manager, a tool that organizes your mods and lets you choose the mods you want to load. If the game isn’t launching using the Mod Manager, read on below for potential fixes.

Why Do Gamers Use a Mod Manager?

A mod manager is exactly what it sounds like; an app designed to help organize and manage all your mods for a specific game. Mod managers help select which mods to load before launching the game and can minimize the risk of a game crashing due to overlapping or problematic mods. They can also work in conjunction with other modding tools like custom scripts, ReShade, etc.

Mod managers are preferred over the traditional modding method, as they are much easier to use, more organized and can also be accessed in-game. They also come with some default quality-of-life mods like skipping the game startup sequence, mute annoying music that can’t be muted through the in-game settings, etc. Larian is also planning to do this for via a universal modding tool for all platforms.

READ MORE: How to use Vortex Mod Manager [Nexus Mods] ➜

Why isn’t Baldur’s Gate 3 Launching Through the Mod Manager?

Unfortunately, if you’ve found yourself in a situation where BG3 won’t launch, you aren’t alone. Many players are victim to the same problem and are baffled as to what’s causing the issue. Here are the probable causes and what you can do to fix them:

1. Incompatible Mod Files

The most probable cause, because obviously we’re dealing with mods here. Try running the game with only a single mod loaded, and do this for every mod you have installed. You’ll be able to single out the problem after some time. Also, try running the game in vanilla settings (without any mods at all) to see whether the mods have altered any game files.

For many users, the problem was stemming from the Achievement Enabler mod. However, the mod was updated to fix the issue. Since there are a lot of mods for BG3 out there, you’ll need to make sure that the mods you download are not causing any major issues.

2. Launching the Game as Admin

If you’ve set the game to launch as an administrator to avoid unexpected issues, we regret to inform you that this is exactly what might be causing the issue here. Launching the game through the mod manager tends to skip out on the “start as admin” confirmation pop-up and may render the game unbootable. Simply switch it off by following the steps below:

1. You can open up the installation folder for any game by right–clicking and choosing Manage, followed by Browse local files from your Steam Library, or by opening up the following path on the File Explorer:

   "The drive on which the game is installed":\SteamLibrary\steamapps\common\Baldur's Gate 3

   

2. Next, head over to the bin folder and right–click on the bg3 file. Select Properties.
   

   

3. In the Properties menu, navigate to the Compatibility tab and uncheck the Run this program as administrator option.
   

   

READ MORE: 8 Easy Fixes for Baldur’s Gate 3 File Verification Error [Guide] ➜

3. Old Mod Settings being Applied

You can’t blame yourself for installing a bad mod, it’s a part of the modding journey and a valuable lesson. That said, bad mods can have serious consequences as they can alter crucial game files, which in the worst case, can only be fixed via a complete reinstall.

If, unfortunately, you find yourself a victim of a bad mod, and are unable to launch the game, it may be because of the mod settings applying the bad mod even after deleting it. Mod settings are stored in a separate file across different locations, usually 2 or 3 locations. You need to find a file named “modsettings.lsx” in the following paths. Use the Run command (Windows +R) to access these paths:

1. %LocalAppData%\Larian Studios\Baldur’s Gate 3\global\
2. %AppData%\Local\Larian Studios\Baldur’s Gate 3\PlayerProfiles\Public

Once you hit Enter, a File Explorer should open up. Use the Search feature to quickly locate the “modsettings.lsx” file and delete it. After that try, launching the game through the mod manager again.

READ MORE: Baldur’s Gate 3 Won’t Launch or Open in PC (6 Fixes) ➜

4. Corrupted Game Files

Many users who encountered this issue reported that verifying the game files fixed their issue. Some mods may remove contradicting game files or replace them in an unnatural manner, causing the game to malfunction. You can verify the integrity of game files on Steam by following these steps:

1. Open up Steam and navigate to your Library.
   

   

2. Now, right-click on the game you want to verify from the list. From the menu, click on Properties.
   

   

3. Now, click on the Installed Files section. Click on the Verify integrity of game files option to begin the process.
   

   

4. Wait patiently for the verification process to finish. It can take some time around 5-15 minutes, depending on where you’ve installed the game.
   

   

5. Once the verification is complete, launch your game again through the mod manager to make sure that the issue is resolved.

   

5. Game Folder and Files are in a Read-Only state

Although a rare occurrence, this issue has affected a few players. If you’ve recently installed an update for BG3, it may have converted all your game files and folders to a read–only state. This means that any new mods that you’re trying to load are probably being rejected by the game directory, on account of it being read-only, rendering the game unplayable.

To check whether your game files and folder is in a read-only state, follow the steps below:

1. Open up the folder where Baldur’s Gate 3 is stored. You can do this by opening up the following path on the File Explorer:

   "The drive on which the game is installed":\SteamLibrary\steamapps\common\

   

2. Next, right–click on the Baldur’s Gate 3 folder and select Properties.
   

   

3. Under the General tab, check whether the Read–only option is enabled. Uncheck it and click on Apply.
   

   

READ MORE: Is Baldur’s Gate 3 Finally Getting New Game+ in 2024? ➜

Conclusion

Modding any game is quite fun, and a game like BG3 which is already brimming with things to do and explore, you’re going to want anything that can make your experience even better. However, BG3’s sheer size bounds it to have its fair share of errors when modding. Luckily, we’ll be here to help you out if you encounter any issues, so mod away to your heart’s liking!

The post FIXED: Baldur’s Gate 3 Mod Manager Can’t Launch Game appeared first on Appuals.

Outdated or incomplete graphics drivers are the most frequent cause of this issue, as they may result in rendering failures that lead to a white screen. Other contributing factors include software conflicts, corrupted Roblox files, browser problems, or Windows issues. Roblox server errors or network connectivity problems may also be to blame.

Multiple restarts of the game may resolve the issue. If not, consider the following solutions:

Preliminary Fixes

• Disable Third-party Antivirus: Sometimes, third-party antivirus software can interfere with the proper functioning of applications and games. Disabling it temporarily might correct a white-screen crash error.
• Reinstall DirectX: Corrupted DirectX files can impede game performance and lead to errors. Learn how to reinstall DirectX here.
• Update Windows: An outdated version of Windows could be causing the problem. Check for the latest system updates and upgrade when necessary. Discover how to update Windows here.

1. Basic Check

Rebooting your device or browser can often fix temporary issues like this error. Doing so can help clear up minor glitches and get your game back up and running. Shut down Roblox, turn off your system for a few minutes, and then power it back on. If you’re utilizing a web browser to play Roblox, close and reopen it.

2. Clear Cache

Cached data can sometimes become corrupted or outdated. Clearing the cache removes temporary files that may be the culprit behind the white screen issue.

1. Open your browser and select the three vertical dots in the upper right corner.
   
2. Choose Settings from the dropdown menu.
   
3. Scroll to the Privacy and Security section.
   
4. Click on Clear browsing data.
   
5. Select the appropriate time range, make sure the necessary boxes are ticked, and hit the Clear Data button.
   

3. Try a Different Browser

If the browser in use has compatibility issues or problems with its cache, switching browsers may solve the problem. Install a different web browser like Google Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, or Safari. Also, review any extensions that might be affecting your primary browser. Access the Roblox website using the new browser to see if the game loads correctly.

4. Compatibility Mode

Windows Compatibility Mode allows running programs that are designed for previous Windows versions on your current operating system like an older version of the software.

1. Right-click the Roblox desktop shortcut and choose Properties.
   
2. Click on the Compatibility tab.
   
3. Tick the Run this program in compatibility mode for: box.
   
4. Select the Windows version that previously worked well with the program.
   
5. Click Apply, then OK to save changes, and try launching Roblox again to see if the error persists.
   

5. Update Graphics Drivers

A white screen can occur due to outdated or problematic graphics drivers. Ensure your GPU drivers are current by visiting the manufacturer’s website for the latest updates.

Avoid using the device manager and instead use your GPU manufacturer’s applications (like Nvidia GeForce Experience or AMD Radeon Software) to ensure you’re getting the correct drivers for your graphics card.

1. Open your GPU manufacturer’s software (e.g., Nvidia GeForce Experience or AMD Radeon Software).
2. Go to the Drivers section.
   
3. Click on Check for updates, then select Download and Install.
   
4. After the update, restart your PC and try accessing Roblox to see if the issue has been resolved.

For further help, contact the Roblox Support team.

The post How to Resolve the White Screen Error in Roblox? appeared first on Appuals.

This issue is common among users trying to overclock their monitor’s refresh rate. They force the monitor to function beyond its compatible and rated refresh rate, which causes the monitor to display a black screen.

Often, this issue can be resolved simply by waiting for 15 seconds without clicking anything or pressing any keys while the screen is black. By default, Windows and any third-party resolution-changing programs will automatically revert your refresh rate back to the default or previous setting to prevent this issue.

However, there are times when this may not solve the problem because the confirmation pop-up may be accidentally dismissed by pressing the ‘Enter’ or ‘Esc’ keys.

In such cases, your only option is to remove and reinstall your computer’s graphics driver completely. Doing so will reset all graphics settings and configurations back to their defaults.

Since the screen is completely black, and you cannot navigate or download a program, you must boot your computer into safe mode with networking. Then, download a program that can detect and remove the graphics driver from your computer, reboot into normal Windows mode, and reinstall the driver.

We will walk you through this process in the following steps:

Step 1. Boot Into Safe Mode

1. Shut down your computer and turn it back on.
2. After the Windows logo appears, shut down the computer again. Repeat this action three times. On the fourth attempt, Windows will automatically begin Preparing Automatic Repair.
   
3. After it loads, click on Advanced Options.
   
4. Go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
   
5. Press 5 or F5 to Enable Safe Mode with Networking.
   

Step 2. Download DDU

DDU, or Display Driver Uninstaller, is a reliable and compact utility designed to completely erase display/graphic drivers from your system. The default method for removing display drivers in Windows doesn’t always thoroughly eliminate all files and registries. Therefore, we will use this tool for a proper uninstall.

Note: If network drivers are not functional in Safe Mode, you may need to download DDU on a different computer and transfer it via USB or other means.

1. Navigate to the following website.
2. Choose Mirror (EU) or Mirror (USA)—whichever is closer to you.
   
3. Download and extract the files.
4. Double-click the .exe file that you have just extracted.
   
5. Choose a suitable file location and click Extract.
   
6. Open the newly extracted folder (DDU v18.0.7.4).
   
7. Run the Display Driver Uninstaller.exe to open the uninstaller.
   
8. Select your Device type on the right side.
   
9. Finally, click on Clean and restart.
   

Step 3. Re-install Graphic Drivers

Once you have booted into safe mode and removed your display drivers using DDU, you’ll need to reinstall the graphic drivers.

To reinstall your graphic drivers, refer to the guide on our website: https://appuals.com/update-graphics-driver-windows/

The post How to Fix Black Screen After Changing Refresh Rate? appeared first on Appuals.

If you had been searching for a way to boost performance or visuals or avoid some bugs, you must have heard the term DirectX and Vulkan. So what are these? Well, they are graphics APIs. What’s that and how can they affect your game? Read on below!

What are Graphics APIs and How Do They Work?

To understand what graphics APIs are and how they work, we first need to understand what an API is.

Application Programming Interface (APIs)

An API (Application Programming Interface) is a set of protocols that allow 2 or more parts of a computer system to communicate with each other. These parts can be both either software or hardware; it depends on the type of API being used. APIs do not have user-interfaces and work in the background within their parameters. They do not allow a normal user to modify their functioning.

APIs can be low-level or high-level in nature. Low-level APIs allow developers to have more control and access over the hardware being targeted, at the expense of increasing complexity. High-level APIs have reduced amount of code which allows for easier, but limited, functionality.

Graphics API

Now that we’ve understood how APIs work, let’s take a look at graphics APIs. Graphics APIs are protocols that translate the instructions/data given by the function the user is performing, in a format that allows it to access the graphics hardware (more specifically, your GPU) and perform that function through it. It also converts these instruction in a form that is easily interpretable for the GPU.

Graphics APIs allow software developers to access your GPU for performing functions without writing code specific for each GPU. They allow a generalized code that can be used by any GPU that is capable of supporting that graphics API.

READ MORE: What is a Teraflop? Understanding The New Graphics Buzzword ➜

The Most Popular Graphics APIs Today

The most popular graphics API in use right now are:

1. DirectX

The most common graphics API used in Windows PC games, it’s hard to imagine a PC game that doesn’t support DirectX. Developed by Microsoft and first released back in September 1995, DirectX has received many updates over the years. The most recent version is DirectX12, but the industry standard remains DirectX11, with the legacy versions being DirecX10 and DirectX9. All are high-level graphics APIs.

2. Vulkan

Originally, AMD started working on a new graphics API, but abandoned it midway and gave full ownership of the project to the Khronos Group for free. In February 2016, the first Vulkan SDK (Software Development Kit) was released, along with the fully open-source code. Due to its low-level nature, Vulkan has been implemented in most devices including Android phones running Android 8.0 (Oreo) or above.

3. Metal

Metal is Apple’s proprietary graphics API, and is exclusive to their devices. This includes iOS, iPadOS, macOS and tvOS. Released in June 2014 for the first time, it is another low-level graphics API that allows Apple devices to gain increased performance through their graphics hardware.

Recently, at WWDC 2022, Apple announced MetalFX, the 3rd version of Metal, which introduces its own upscaling technology. It was introduced alongside iOS 16, iPadOS 16 and macOS Ventura.

READ MORE: How to update graphics driver in Windows? (AMD, Nvidia, Intel) ➜

Path of Exile: DirectX11 vs. DirectX12 vs. Vulkan

Now, on to the main topic; the affect of different graphics APIs on Path of Exile. Initially, Path of Exile launched with DirectX9. In 2019, Grinding Gear Games; the developers behind Path of Exile, announced that they would be ending support for Windows XP and Vista, by replacing DirectX9 with DirectX11.

On May 2020, GGG added the Vulkan API to the game. Since DirectX12 was still relatively new and the industry still relied on DirectX11 for development, it was only added in an update on April 2022.

DirectX11 on Path of Exile

While DirectX11 (DX11) has been around since the first day, it still suffers from a handful of issues. Stutters, FPS spikes, rare freezes are all issues still encountered by users running Path of Exile on DX11. However, it’s still the best option for those running the game on relatively older hardware, as DirectX12 can instabilities caused by implementing newer features.

DirectX12 on Path of Exile

DirectX12 (DX12) improves upon the many shortcomings of DX11, while introducing several of its own. As mentioned above, DX12 works best on modern hardware. However one should keep in mind that even DX12 has been around for nearly a decade, and its definition of modern hardware is variable.

You may get either better or worse FPS, depending on your hardware. Also you’ll be rid of DX11’s stutters, FPS spikes and freezes. You’ll also experience a better visual quality, but expect a bit of high CPU usage. Unfortunately, your game may have a tendency to crash.

Vulkan on Path of Exile

Vulkan offers similar performance to DX12, along with similar visual quality. Basically, it is on par with DX12, but depending on your hardware, may give better performance. However, it is very CPU-intensive and a bit unstable, with a tendency to crash like DX12.

READ MORE: What is Vulkan Runtime Libraries and Do I Need It? ➜

How to Change Graphics API in Path of Exile

You can only change the graphics API of Path of Exile on the PC platform. Here’s how you to do it:

1. Launch Path of Exile.

2. Open up the Options from the Pause menu or home screen.

   

3. By default, the Graphics section should be open. Click on the Renderer drop-down.

   

4. Select your choice of graphics API from the list. Click on Save.
   

   

5. Exit the game. You’ll be required to restart the game. Make sure to use a monitoring tool to check up on your device’s performance. 

READ MORE: How to Reinstall DirectX on a Windows Computer ➜

Which API Should You Choose?

There’s no correct answer to this question. Each API offers its own advantages and disadvantages. Using a tool like MSI Afterburner will help you check which graphics API is running. This will also help you to see the performance metrics of using exact API.

However, since most of us have modern hardware, we recommend using DX12 or Vulkan. At the end of the day, its up to you to decide which API you want to use and base the best settings around it. Good luck and may you get better frames!

The post Path of Exile: DirectX 11 vs 12 vs Vulkan — Which is the Best? appeared first on Appuals.

To address this, you should first restart your computer and run the built-in troubleshooters to identify any persistent issues. If the problem remains unresolved, follow the solutions below:

1. Free up Disk Space

Lack of sufficient free disk space can prevent the KB5011048 update from installing. To facilitate a successful installation, create more space on your device through these steps:

• Run the Disk Cleanup tool.

  

• Delete temporary files.
• Move files and documents to cloud storage.
• Uninstall apps and programs that are no longer needed.
• Delete any large files that are redundant.

  

2. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

The Windows Update Troubleshooter can diagnose and rectify problems associated with Windows updates. If you’re having trouble with the KB5011048 installation, using this tool might help.

1. Click the Windows button and open Settings.
2. Go to Update & Security and select Troubleshoot.
3. Select Additional troubleshooters from the right-side panel.

   

4. Choose Run the troubleshooter under Windows Update.
5. Wait for the troubleshooter to identify any issues with the Windows Update components.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions to apply any recommended fixes.

   

3. Repair Corrupted System Files

The System File Checker (SFC) can search for and repair missing or corrupted system files in the Windows operating system. The Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool can download fresh system files from Windows servers to replace damaged ones. Running these two scans can help rectify the error impeding the KB5011048 update installation.

1. Search for Command Prompt, right-click, and choose Run as administrator.
2. Type the following command in the Command Prompt window and hit Enter:

   sfc /scannow

   

3. Allow the System File Checker time to scan and mend corrupt files, then reboot your computer to implement the changes.

If problems persist, execute the commands listed below, pressing Enter after each:

Dism.exe /online /Cleanup-Image /checkhealth
Dism.exe /online /Cleanup-Image /scanhealth
Dism.exe /online /Cleanup-Image /Restorehealth

4. Reset Windows Update Components

Resetting Windows Update components involves clearing the cache and refreshing related components potentially causing update failures like KB5011048’s. This process requires stopping services, renaming or deleting certain files, and restarting the services.

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Use the following commands to stop BITS and other related services, pressing Enter after each:

   net stop bits
   net stop wuauserv
   net stop cryptsvc

   

3. To delete qmgr*.dat files, type the following command and press Enter:

   Del "%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Application Data\Microsoft\Network\Downloader\qmgr*.dat"

   

4. Execute the commands below to rename the software distribution folders, pressing Enter after each line:

   Ren %Systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution\DataStore DataStore.bak
   Ren %Systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution\Download Download.bak
   Ren %Systemroot%\System32\catroot2 catroot2.bak

   

5. Reset BITS and the Windows Update service to their default security descriptors with the following commands, hitting Enter at the conclusion:

   sc.exe sdset bits D:(A;CI;CCDCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRSDRCWDWO;;;SY)(A;;CCDCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRSDRCWDWO;;;BA)(A;;CCLCSWLOCRRC;;;IU)(A;;CCLCSWLOCRRC;;;SU)
   sc.exe sdset wuauserv D:(A;;CCLCSWRPLORC;;;AU)(A;;CCDCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRSDRCWDWO;;;BA)(A;;CCDCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRSDRCWDWO;;;SY)

   

6. Navigate to the System32 directory with this command:

   cd /d %windir%\system32

7. Re-register BITS and Windows Update files by entering the following commands in Command Prompt, pressing Enter after each one:

   regsvr32.exe atl.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe urlmon.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe mshtml.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe shdocvw.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe browseui.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe jscript.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe vbscript.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe scrrun.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe msxml.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe msxml3.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe msxml6.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe actxprxy.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe softpub.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe wintrust.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe dssenh.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe rsaenh.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe gpkcsp.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe sccbase.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe slbcsp.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe cryptdlg.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe oleaut32.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe ole32.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe shell32.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe initpki.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe wuapi.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe wuaueng.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe wuaueng1.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe wucltui.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe wups.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe wups2.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe wuweb.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe qmgr.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe qmgrprxy.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe wucltux.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe muweb.dll
   
   regsvr32.exe wuwebv.dll

   

8. Reset Winsock with this command:

   netsh winsock reset

9. If using Windows Server 2003 or Windows XP, configure proxy settings with:

   proxycfg.exe -d

10. Restart the BITS, Cryptographic, and Windows Update services by typing and running:

    net start bits
    net start wuauserv
    net start cryptsvc

11. Clear the BITS queue in Windows Server 2008 or Windows Vista with:

    bitsadmin.exe /reset /allusers

5. Try a Clean Boot

Initiating a clean boot launches Windows with only essential programs and drivers, enabling you to check if a background program is the source of the installation failure.

1. Search for “system configuration” and hit Enter.
2. Check the Hide all Microsoft services box on the Services tab.

   

3. Press the Disable all button.
4. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
5. In the Task Manager, disable all third-party programs.

   

6. Restart your PC and verify if the clean boot resolved the update installation problem.
7. If the issue is resolved, sequentially uninstall recently added applications to find the one causing the conflict.

6. Disable Third-Party Antivirus Software

Antivirus programs can occasionally disrupt the Windows Update process. Temporarily deactivating your antivirus might facilitate the installation of KB5011048. Remember to reactivate it later to safeguard your system.

1. Launch the Start menu and search for “Windows Security”.
2. Choose the Windows Security app from the search results, head to Virus & Threat Protection, and under this section, click on Manage settings.

   

3. Toggle Real-time protection to Off. Note that this action will postpone scanning of downloaded or newly installed files until the next scheduled scan.

7. Use Installation Media

In cases where your Windows installation is corrupted, performing a repair installation might be necessary. Use installation media to reinstall Windows and then attempt the update process once more.

If you have exhausted these steps and still face problems with the KB5011048 installation on Windows 11/10, consider reaching out to the Microsoft support team for further assistance. Alternatively, you can leave a comment below, and one of our experts will respond to your query.

The post How to Fix KB5011048 Fail to Install on Windows 11/10? appeared first on Appuals.

In this article, we’ll address this issue, guide you through troubleshooting steps to successfully launch GOG Galaxy, and enable you to start playing games with ease.

1. Preliminary Fixes

• Check Internet: Verify your internet connection’s status and speed at Fast.com. Poor internet connectivity might be the reason GOG Galaxy fails to launch, as an active connection is required for the app’s operation.
• Check Server Status: Server-related issues could also disrupt GOG Galaxy. You can monitor the server status at Downdetector.
• Disable Antivirus: Occasionally, antivirus programs may conflict with other software, preventing proper function. Learn how to temporarily disable your antivirus in our guide here.

2. Reset Winsock

Connectivity issues might prevent GOG Galaxy from launching. Resetting Winsock is known to resolve temporary misconfigurations or glitches affecting communication between your computer and the internet.

1. Enter ‘cmd‘ into the Search Box and select Run as Administrator.
   
2. Execute the following command:

   netsh winsock reset

3. Consider resetting network settings for further troubleshooting, as explained here.
4. Restart your computer and verify if the issue is resolved.

3. Enable DirectPlay

DirectPlay, an API of DirectX that facilitates networking functionalities primarily for online gaming, can help resolve compatibility problems. Since GOG Galaxy is a multiplayer gaming platform, activating DirectPlay might repair the launching issue.

1. Access the Search Bar, type “Turn Windows features on or off”, and open the feature.
   
2. Locate Legacy Components, enable DirectPlay, and click OK.
   
3. Restart your computer following the changes.

4. Update Graphics Driver

An outdated graphics driver may also be a contributing factor to GOG Galaxy failing to launch. Updating the graphics driver may resolve the issue.

Our guide on updating graphics drivers can be found here.

5. Run Communication Process Manually

The file GalaxyCommunication.exe is essential for ensuring smooth communication between the GOG Galaxy client and GOG servers. Running this file manually could solve the issue if it’s not launching automatically.

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialogue box.
2. Enter the following path and click OK:

   C:\ProgramData\GOG.com\Galaxy\redists\GalaxyCommunication.exe

   

6. Add GOG as an Exclusion in Windows Security

Windows Security may inadvertently be blocking GOG Galaxy. Adding the GOG folder as an exclusion can prevent potential conflicts.

1. Type ‘Virus and Threat Protection‘ into the Search Bar and access it.
   
2. Navigate to the Virus & Threat Protection settings and select ‘Manage settings’.
   
3. Scroll to Exclusions, then choose Add or Remove Exclusions.
   
4. Select Add an exclusion > Folder.
   
5. Include the following directory path:

   C:\Program Files (x86)\Gog Galaxy\

   

6. Attempt to launch the application once again.

7. Uninstall Conflicting Programs

Certain third-party applications can interfere with GOG Galaxy’s functionality. Reported culprits include Advanced System Care, Driver Booster, Malwarebytes, among others. Uninstalling any program that appears to be causing interference is advisable.

Our tutorial on uninstalling programs can be found here.

8. Launch Game Directly

If your objective is to play a game without the need for GOG Galaxy, you can directly run the game’s executable file from its installation directory.

1. Open File Explorer and navigate to the folder where the game is installed.
2. Locate and execute the .exe file to launch the game autonomously.

Should none of the above solutions prove effective, it may be time to consider reinstalling GOG Galaxy. Using Revo Uninstaller is recommended for a comprehensive removal of all related files.

Instructions on using Revo Uninstaller can be accessed here. To reinstall GOG Galaxy, visit the official website.

The post How to Fix GOG Galaxy Not Launching Issue? appeared first on Appuals.