Category: SmartWindows

Maintaining your computer’s performance and security is essential. Sometimes, despite all efforts to keep your system in top shape, you may encounter persistent issues that require more than just routine maintenance. A factory reset is one such solution. This blog will guide you through understanding when a factory reset is necessary and how to perform it on a Windows 10 system.

When is a Windows 10 Factory Reset Required?

Restoring your computer to its initial configuration by erasing all installed applications, personal data, and system settings is possible with a factory reset. Here are some scenarios where a factory reset might be necessary: 

Persistent Performance Issues

If your computer is running slow, freezing, or crashing frequently, and no amount of troubleshooting, updating, or optimizing seems to help, a factory reset can give it a fresh start.

Malware or Virus Infection

When your system is compromised by malware or a virus that you cannot remove through antivirus software or other security measures, a factory reset ensures that all traces of malicious software are eliminated.

Preparing to Sell or Give Away Your PC

Ensure all your personal data is deleted before giving someone else access to your computer. A factory reset ensures all your private data is lost.

Corrupt System Files

Sometimes, system files become corrupted due to software conflicts, unexpected shutdowns, or failed updates. A factory reset can resolve these issues by reinstalling a clean version of Windows 10.

How to Factory Reset Windows 10?

Performing a factory reset on Windows 10 is straightforward, but it’s essential to back up your data before proceeding, as this process will erase everything on your hard drive. Here’s how you can do: 

Step 1: Open Settings

Choose Settings (the gear symbol) from the Start Menu by clicking on it.

Step 2: Go to the Update & Security page

Click Update & Security in the Settings window.

Step 3: Recovery Options

Pick the Recovery option from the menu on the left.

Step 4: Launch the Reset Process

Under the Reset this PC section, select the Get started option.

Step 5: Select an Option

There will be two choices available to you: 

• Keep my files: Using this option will save your personal files while removing applications and settings.
• Remove everything: This will erase all private files, settings, and applications.

Step 6: Follow the On-Screen Instructions

Select the one that best fits you, then adhere to the on-screen directions. Also, if you wish to wipe everything, you will be asked to choose if you want to erase all your data or the entire drive. A full clean is more secure but takes longer.

Step 7: Complete the Reset

Click Reset after making your selections. Once the procedure starts, your computer will restart many times. After everything is finished, Windows 10 will be reinstalled, and the factory settings of your machine will be restored.

Conclusion

A factory reset can be a lifesaver when dealing with persistent system issues, malware infections, or preparing your PC for a new user. You can make sure your Windows 10 system resets successfully by following the instructions. Keep in mind that this procedure will remove every piece of data from your hard disk, so before starting, make a backup of any crucial information. With a fresh start, your computer will run like new, free from previous issues and ready for future tasks.

These days, a large portion of our lives—including work, entertainment, and personal organization—center around computers. When our systems encounter problems, it can be incredibly frustrating. Installing the operating system again is one way to fix a lot of problems. For Windows 10 users, this can be a highly effective way to restore system performance, resolve persistent problems, and ensure a fresh start.

In this blog, we’ll explore what issues can be resolved by reinstalling Windows 10, the types of reinstalls available, and a step-by-step guide on how to perform a reinstall.

Related Blogs: https://smartwindows.app/blog/12-tips-for-improving-your-slow-laptops-speed/  

What Issues Can Be Resolved by Reinstalling Windows 10?

Reinstalling Windows 10 can address a wide range of problems that may be affecting your computer. The following are some typical problems that are fixable: 

1. System Performance Problems

Your computer may get slowed down over time by unnecessary files, out-of-date applications, and fragmented data. Reinstalling the software can help solve these problems and increase speed and performance.

2. Malware and Viruses

If your system has been compromised by malware or viruses, reinstalling Windows 10 can help to completely remove these threats and restore your computer to a secure state.

3. Software Conflicts

Installing and uninstalling various programs can sometimes lead to software conflicts and system instability. A clean reinstall can help resolve these conflicts by providing a fresh start.

4. System Crashes and Errors

Frequent system crashes, blue screens of death (BSOD), and other persistent errors can often be resolved by reinstalling Windows 10, as it can fix corrupted system files and drivers.

5. Upgrade Issues

If you’ve encountered problems during a Windows update or upgrade, a fresh install can help ensure that your system is running the latest version of Windows 10 without any issues.

Types of Reinstalls for Windows 10

When it comes to reinstalling Windows 10, there are several methods you can choose from, depending on your needs and the severity of the issues you’re experiencing: 

Reset This PC

This option allows you to reinstall Windows 10 while keeping your personal files intact. It’s a good choice if you want to address performance issues or remove problematic software without losing your data. 

Clean Install

To do a clean installation, you must format your hard drive and install a brand-new copy of Windows 10. This method is the most thorough and is ideal for resolving severe issues, such as malware infections or significant system errors. However, it requires you to back up your data beforehand, as everything on your drive will be wiped. 

In-Place Upgrade

This method involves using the Windows 10 installation media to upgrade your current installation. It can resolve some system issues without affecting your files or applications. However, it’s not as comprehensive as a clean install. 

How to Reinstall Windows 10?

Although reinstalling Windows 10 could appear difficult, if you follow the appropriate instructions, it’s a simple procedure. Here’s how: 

1. Using the “Reset This PC” Option

• Open Settings: Select “Settings” (the gear symbol) by clicking on the Start menu. 
• Navigate to Update & Security: To access the Settings panel, select “Update & Security.” 
• Choose Recovery: From the option on the left, choose “Recovery.” 
• Reset This PC: Click the “Get started” button located under the “Reset this PC” section. 
• Choose an Option: Either select “Keep my files” or select “Remove everything.” Select the solution that best meets your requirements. 
• Follow the Prompts: To finish the reset process, adhere to the on-screen directions. 

2. Performing a Clean Install

• Back-Up Your Data: Before starting, ensure that you back up all important files and data. 
• Create Installation Media: Make a bootable USB device or DVD by downloading the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool from the Microsoft website. 
• Boot from Installation Media: After inserting the USB drive or DVD, turn on your computer again. To access the BIOS or boot menu and choose the installation medium, press the corresponding key. 
• Install Windows 10: For Windows 10 installation, follow the on-screen directions. Choose “Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)” to perform a clean install. 
• Complete Setup: After the installation is finished, set up your fresh Windows 10 installation by following the instructions. 

3. Performing an In-Place Upgrade 

• Download the Installation Media: Use the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool to download the latest version of Windows 10. 
• Run the Setup: Open the downloaded file and run the setup. Choose “Upgrade this PC now.” 
• Follow the Prompts: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the upgrade process. 

Conclusion

Reinstalling Windows 10 may be a useful fix for several system problems, including malware and performance concerns. You can guarantee a seamless and effective reinstallation procedure by being aware of the various reinstallation options and taking the right precautions. Whether you choose to reset your PC, perform a clean install, or do an in-place upgrade, you’ll be able to restore your computer to its optimal state and enjoy a fresh start.

If you have ever opened the Task Manager in Windows 11 and cannot seem to find your GPU, then, for once, you are not alone.

The details of your GPU are shown in the Task Manager. The Task Manager lets users monitor and manage their system resources, including their GPU. However, sometimes, for many reasons, you won’t be able to see your GPU listed there. In this article, we will help you fix this issue.

Why is my GPU not showing up in the task manager in Windows 11?

The Task Manager shows your GPU’s entire processing report. However, sometimes, your GPU won’t appear in the Task Manager. The following tips can help you fix this problem.

Update your graphic drivers.

Updating your GPU should be your first step towards fixing this problem. Updating the drivers can become critical, as corrupted drivers can cause your GPU to not appear in the Task Manager.

• Open Settings and go to Update & Security; from there, navigate to Windows Update.
• Look for a link named View Optional Updates.
• You will see a list of updates. Install those you need.

However, you can use Driver Update Software, or if you have an AMD graphics card, you can use AMD Driver Autodetect to update your GPU. Moreover, you can use the NV Updater to update your GPU if you have an NVIDIA card.

Check the BIOS settings.

If your BIOS settings are misconfigured, your GPU won’t appear in the Task Manager. So, it is vital to configure your BIOS to the correct settings to ensure your GPU is visible.

Go to the BIOS settings during system startup and ensure that the integrated graphics or discrete GPU is enabled. However, if this setting is already enabled, reset the BIOS to its default values. A corrupted BIOS can cause your system to malfunction.

Repair all the corrupted system files.

Another reason you cannot see your GPU, is due to corrupted or missing files. You can fix this issue through a SFC scan.

• Search for the Command Prompt by pressing the Windows key.
• In the administrator mode, run the Command Prompt.
• Type the command: sfc/scannow
• Check whether the issue is resolved by restarting your device

Disable power-saving mode.

Power-Saving mode can be a great way to save battery, but it can limit your GPU’s performance. But you can turn it off to resolve this issue.

• Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
• Navigate to System and Power & Battery.
• Select Balanced or Best Performance from the drop-down menu.

Check for hardware issues.

Lastly, check whether your device’s hardware has any issues. Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter to fix the issue. However, if that doesn’t fix the issue, visit your nearest service center.

How do I make my GPU show up in the Task Manager in Windows 11?

If you want your GPU to appear in the Task Manager, press CTRL + ALT + Delete and select Task Manager. Expand the Performance section and click on your GPU. Moreover, if your device has multiple GPUs, they will be labeled as GPU 1, GPU 2, etc.

Conclusion

Your GPU is one of the most important parts of your device, and being unable to find it in the Task Manager can adversely impact it. You won’t be able to monitor how your GPU is performing and what apps are consuming the most GPU resources. However, you can implement the fixes described in this article and get the most out of your device.

Does your work require you to take a lot of screenshots? If yes, then you might have faced the issue of your screenshots not saving at your desired location. This can happen due to a few reasons, most commonly a change of destination folder.

But sometimes, it can be a bit more serious than that, and you might have to dig into the Windows registry settings to set it right.

In this blog post, we will look into the reasons why your screenshots are not saving into the default Pictures folder and how you can fix that issue with a few simple fixes.

Why are my screenshots not saving in Windows 11?

A simple reason why your screenshots are not being saved in the Pictures folder is that your default folder has been changed. You can check where your screenshots are saved by right-clicking on the image and clicking on the Properties option.

But if your images are still not saving in your desired folder, then it might be that your registry files are corrupted. But if you go about fixing it without knowing what you are doing, then you can do more harm than good and might disturb other registry settings.

How can I save my screenshots in Windows 11?

If your registry files are corrupted, which is causing your screenshots to not save in your desired folder, then you can implement the following fix to resolve the issue:

• Press Win+R to open the Run dialogue box.
• In the dialog box, type regedit
• Navigate to Explorer in HKCU.
• Right-click on it and create a new DWORD (32-bit) value.
• Rename it ScreenshotIndex.
• Select the decimal option by double-clicking on it.
• Enter the data value of 695.
• Save these settings by clicking OK.
• Navigate to the User Shell folders.
• After that, click on the following {B7BEDE81-DF94-4682-A7D8-57A52620B86F}
• Enter the following user profile: %USERPROFILE%\Pictures\ Screenshots
• Save the it and reboot your PC

Here’s a bit more detail on these steps:

Before changing your registry settings, make sure to create a system restore point. Subsequently,  press the Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog box. Type regedit in the dialog box to open the Registry Editor.

Afterward, navigate to the following location:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer

Once you navigate to the aforementioned location, look for ScreenshotIndex. You will not find this DWORD in your registry editor. This is the reason why your screenshots aren’t being saved in the default folder. You have to create this word yourself.

Start by right-clicking on the right window pane and create a new DWORD value. Double-click on the word to modify its decimal value to 695.

The next step is to point out this word in the correct user profile settings. You can do this through the User Shell Folders entry inside the Registry Editor. Start by navigating to the following location:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\User Shell Folders

In the right pane, click on the following entry:

 {B7BEDE81-DF94-4682-A7D8-57A52620B86F}

Make sure that the entry points to the following value data:

%USERPROFILE%\Pictures\Screenshots

After setting the value data, close the Registry Editor and reboot your PC. Now, try to take screenshots. You’ll see that your screenshots are saved in your desired folder.

How can you change where your screenshots are saved in Windows 11?

If you don’t want to use the default screenshot folder and want to change it, you can do it through the Registry Editor. After changing the default location through the Registry Editor, your computer will automatically start saving your screenshots to your new provided location.

Conclusion

There you have it. With the steps mentioned in this guide, you can successfully resolve your screenshot-saving issues by just tweaking a few Registry Editor settings. But, before you change any settings in the Registry Editor, ensure that you first create a restore point. Because if the registry settings are wrongly changed, you can face serious issues with your PC.

That’s why you can save and restore your app positioning, display settings, and Registry Editor settings with SmartWindows. Smart Windows is a top-notch Windows utility tool that lets you become highly productive by allowing you to create multiple profiles for your Windows for multiple users and various tasks.

If we were to ask you what operating system you have on your PC, chances are you would say Windows. Windows 10, without a doubt,  is among the most popular operating systems in the world. However, one question that comes up regularly is how to use the product key and how many times you can use it.

The number of times you can use a product key depends on the license you have purchased. In this article, we’ll explain how you can use the product key and how you can use it multiple times.

How many times can you use a Windows 10 product key?

After purchasing Windows 10, you’ll be given a product key that is used to activate Windows. This key can be used multiple times to activate the operating system; however, the exact number of times you can use it depends upon the license you have purchased.

Let’s look in detail at what licenses you can purchase.

What licenses do you need to activate Windows 10?

The two licenses that you need to activate Windows 10 are the OEM license and the retail license.

OEM License

An OEM license is typically associated with specific hardware, such as laptops and desktops, and therefore cannot be transferred to another device. So, you can only use that product key for that specific device with a pre-installed OEM license.

Retail License

Retail licenses are not tied to any specific hardware. Retail licenses can be used for multiple devices. So, you can use the product key on up to 10 devices if you buy Windows 10 with a retail license.

Can you use the same Windows product key twice?

As we discussed earlier, reusing a Windows 10 product key entirely depends on the license. If your Windows 10 has an OEM license, then you can only use the product key once. However, if you have a retail license, you can use it up to 10 times.

Can you upgrade your Windows 10 license?

You can upgrade your Windows 10 license. If you have an OEM license, then you can buy a retail license from Microsoft or a third-party vendor. This will allow you to use your product key multiple times.

Conclusion

You can reuse a Windows 10 product key multiple times with a Retail license. However, if you have an OEM license, you cannot use it more than once and also cannot transfer it to another device.

Therefore, if you want to reuse your product key for multiple devices, you need to get the right Windows license.

FAQs

Can you reactivate Windows 10 with the same key?

Yes. if you have uninstalled and reinstalled it on the same computer, you can reactivate Windows 10 with the same key. The key will be automatically reactivated.

However, if you have an OEM license and use the key on another computer, Microsoft will detect this and block the key from being used again.

What happens if you don’t activate Windows 10?

You can use Windows 10 without ever activating it, however, you won’t be able to use certain features, such as multiple desktops, Task View, or the Windows Store.

Moreover, you won’t be able to personalize your lock screen or change the themes, and your notifications will also be disabled.

Do you need to attach more monitors to your PC for work, study, or even gaming? Also, do you run Windows 10 on your PC and find it difficult to effectively set up the monitors running the same OS? 

In this guide, we will be suggesting fixes that can help you to fix these issues.

How many monitors can Windows 10 support?

Windows 10 supports a maximum resolution of 5120 x 2880. So you can set up, in addition to your primary monitor, up to ten 1080p and four 4K monitors. However, there are some issues that can prevent you from connecting additional monitors to your PC.

Monitor limit set

Windows 10 is able to support ten additional monitors due to the default setting in Applet, however, some users can only attach up to three monitors. This is because there is a set limit by the Display Properties Applet, which doesn’t allow the configuration of monitors exceeding four or more.

Exceeded graphic card limit

Another reason why your Windows 10 might not support additional monitors is due to your PC’s graphics card. Usually, typical graphics cards support two additional monitors. When the limit of the graphics card exceeds, it becomes impossible to configure additional monitors.

Compatibility issues

Sometimes a monitor isn’t compatible with Windows 10. If the Windows 10 OS doesn’t recognize a monitor it will not be able to support any external monitors.

Limited USB and HDMI ports

If your PC has a limited number of USB and HDMI ports and all are used up, then you cannot attach any other external monitors unless an external source is attached to them.

Graphic cards and motherboard compatibility issues

Usually, graphic cards can support up to two monitors, but it is still possible that your graphics card isn’t compatible with your motherboard. So, you have to update the motherboard or the graphics card.

How can you fix the Windows 10 support issue?

To fix these issues, you can follow the following steps:

Check the maximum configurable limit

By changing the default settings of the Display Properties Applet in Windows 10, you can attach multiple monitors. Also, you can change the limit on how many monitors you want to attach. Here’s how:

• Go to the Control Panel.
• Search for Display Properties Applet
• Click on the Customize button.
• Configure more than ten monitors by customizing the Display Properties Applet
• Turn off your PC and attach the additional monitors.
• Turn on your PC, and your monitors will be set up.

Check the graphic card limit.

If you cannot configure your computer with more than four external monitors, then check the limit of monitors a graphic card can support. Usually, it depends on the model of the graphic card, but a graphic card usually supports up to two monitors.

You can check the limit of your graphic card by checking the settings of your graphic card.

Check the compatibility of your monitors with Windows 10.

Another thing you need to check before attaching a monitor is whether or not it is compatible with Windows 10. Check with the manufacturing company to see if it is compatible with Windows 10. Your screen will not boot if you don’t check its compatibility.

Check the total number of USB and HDMI ports.

Before you attach your monitors to your PC, check how many USB and HDMI ports are on the motherboard. If your computer has only a few USB ports, it can only attach and support only those monitors attached to them. You can attach an additional CPU or a USB hub to attach additional monitors.

Use a graphic card that is compatible with the motherboard.

Last but not least, you can try changing your graphics card to one that is compatible with your motherboard. 

Set up your monitors with SmartWindows!

Here you have it! Windows 10 can support up to 10 monitors by just customizing the Display Properties applet. Moreover, you should check the compatibility of your graphics card with both Windows 10 and your PC.

Also, check the USB and HDMI ports on your motherboard. This will also give you an idea of how many monitors you can attach to your PC.

If you want to boost your productivity, you can use SmartWindows! SmartWindows is a Windows utility app that lets you improve multi-screen productivity by prioritizing app positioning and snap layouts on up to six displays.

FAQs

Is it possible to attach multiple monitors to a laptop?

Yes. You can attach multiple monitors to a laptop that has Windows 10 installed. Moreover, even if the laptop has a single USB or HDMI port, a setup of two or more monitors However, to save the laptop from any extra load, it is recommended to use a USB hub or additional GPUs.

Can you use HDMI cables to attach monitors to a PC?

Yes. It is necessary to use HDMI cables to attach monitors to a PC. Otherwise, the PC will not be able to detect the additional monitors.

Can Windows 10 support seven monitors or more?

Windows 10 can support up to ten monitors via the Display Applet. Therefore, it is possible to attach seven monitors or more to a PC.

The latest version of Windows, Windows 11, offers new features that facilitate multitasking, making it more convenient for users. Seamlessly orchestrating a symphony of windows on your desktop is now at your fingertips, courtesy of the ingenious snap layouts. These fresh alternatives transcend the familiar territory of the time-honored Alt and Tab shortcut. In this blog, we’ll discuss how to arrange multiple Windows in Windows 11. So, let’s get started! 

Snap Your Windows to Increase Productivity 

The Snap feature is the best to boost your productivity. It lets you put multiple app windows together on one screen. There are multiple layout options available, each with varying sizes. You can access and use your preferred apps easily with this feature while focusing on your tasks. Let’s look at how you can get advantages from the Snap feature.

Snap Layouts

Windows’ Snap feature brings a handful of ready-to-use layouts that let you easily organize all your open windows.

Using Snap with a mouse in Windows 11 is straightforward:

To access Snap layouts:

• Press the Windows Logo Key + Z to open the layout options in the window you want to snap.
• To snap a window, simply hover over that window’s Minimize or Maximize button. This will trigger the layout options to appear.

Depending on your screen size, you might come across various predefined layouts designed specifically for your display dimensions.

Snap Assist

Once you’ve snapped your initial window, the Snap Assist tool steps in automatically. It presents thumbnails of all your other open windows, allowing you to cherry-pick which ones you’d like to incorporate into the chosen layout.

Here’s how to make the most of Snap Assist in Windows 11:

Snap Assist comes to your aid when you need to tweak the size of the layout boxes. Pick a dividing line, drag it, and voila, your window sizes readjust. If you resize one window, the neighboring one adapts to fit snugly, eliminating any wasted screen real estate.

Keep in mind that Snap Assist only works with two app windows at a time on Windows 11 SE.

Snap Groups

As soon as you opt for a layout and Snap all the designated windows into their respective spots, it magically transforms into a Snap group. This handy feature is particularly useful when working on multiple tasks within different applications. Even if an interruption prompts you to open a new app, don’t worry; revisiting your Snap group is a breeze. Just hover over any open apps within the group, and like a breadcrumb trail, it guides you back to your cherished Snap group.

Snap with the Keyboard

In Windows, there are two methods to Snap using your keyboard:

Using the keyboard to open the Snap layout box

• Use Windows Logo Key + Z to access the layout box.
• Key in the number corresponding to your desired layout. Then, type the number for the spot where you want your window to fit in that layout.
• You can also use your mouse to pick your preferred layout.
• Click to choose your preferred layout.

It’s as simple as that when you’re Snap-ing with your keyboard in Windows 11.

Using keyboard arrows for Snap layout

• Hold down the Windows Logo Key + Arrow to Snap the app you’re currently on. You can keep juggling Snap positions using your keyboard arrows.
• Left Arrow: The app aligns to the left side of your screen.
• Right Arrow: The app takes its place on the right side.
• Up Arrow: The app snugly fits on the upper side.
• Once you’ve landed on your desired Snap spot, release the Windows Logo Key.

You can still use Snap Assist to populate your layout with additional windows or apps you wish to Snap together on your screen. The key is to ensure that your space meets your needs!

Snap with the Mouse

There are multiple ways to work with your mouse when using Snap in Windows.

Maximize Your Space with a Hover

• To Snap an app, simply hover your cursor over the Minimize or Maximize button. This will prompt the Snap layout box to appear automatically.
• Select the Snap layout you prefer from the choices in the layout box.

Arrange Apps by Dragging to Screen Sides

• To Snap a window or app to the side or edge of your screen, simply click and drag it. The Snap layout box will appear.
• Choose the layout you want to use and release the app accordingly.
• Snap Assist can also help you fill your layout with other windows or apps to Snap together.

To create a side-by-side Snap, simply drag an app toward your screen’s middle right or middle left.

Arrange Apps by Dragging to Screen Sides

• To use the Snap feature, simply move the window or app you want to Snap to the upper middle of your screen by clicking and dragging it. The Snap layout box appears.
• Release the app into the layout you desire.

Making the most of these mouse-driven Snap techniques empowers you to arrange your workspace efficiently. It’s all about tailoring your screen to suit your needs!

SmartWindows Restores Preset Display Arrangements and Snap Layouts on Windows 10 and 11

Have you experienced your display settings or ‘Snap Layouts’ on Windows 11 being disrupted by system changes or glitches? SmartWindows is the ultimate solution for easily restoring display arrangements and Snap Layouts configurations.

SmartWindows is your trusty tool that understands the value of your workspace layout. With it, you can swiftly reclaim your carefully organized Windows and application placements on Windows 11 and easily harness the power of ‘Snap Layouts’ on Windows 11.

Gone are the days of fretting over unintentional window shifts or layout distortions. Whether you’re a meticulous multitasker, a creative professional, or someone who takes your workspace arrangement seriously, SmartWindows offers the peace of mind you deserve. Restore your display settings easily and return to being productive in just a few clicks.