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That might be the safest at this time. Make sure you disable that network card before you uninstall avast because one of the first things these programs do is go to the internet and ask for your input.
Keep us updated on your progress.
No other virus software. Maybe I'll try it on my laptop first - disabling avast to see if it is the culprit. If it is, then what do I do? Just deal with it? I have to have anitvirus. I guess a new install might help too as you mentioned.
If you don't want to do any of that other stuff and thinking it may be avast, it may be a pain in the ass, but just uninstall avast completely to see if that does anything. You'll just have to go back to the website and download it again if you want it.
Also, is there any other virus stuff like mccaffe running?
It's the free version and it is updated.
Okay. Think about trying this. First, while you're still running your main computer, find network settings so you can just disable - that's only 'turn off' your internet connection, not uninstall. You would be just disabling the network card so that it doesn't start up at boot up, which I assume it does.
I can click a desktop icon of my network connection and select 'disable'. You can also try and find the icon on the right side of your taskbar that says 'internet connection',
right click it - select 'open network connections'. Then when settings opens, select 'change adapter options' > right click the icon that is your connected network, mine says
ethernet 3' and from the right click drop down menu, select 'disable'.
Then find and bring up your avast program console window, it should have a setting somewhere to set the program NOT to boot with windows. Find and select that.
Then power off the computer, and this time turn off the power after normal shut down. I have a power strip I turn off.
Then power up normally.
What this accomplishes is 1. You won't connect when you boot up and 2. avast should not be running.
You will know if the response is better. If no improvement and avast is indeed not running, it probably isn't that program.
Did you buy avast, or is it free? How old is it?
No new software and nothing new installed. All my drivers are updated. I am really beginning to think it may be a problem with the anti-virus - reason is because all three of my computers are having slow boot up problems and they all use Avast. I could change the setting on Avast not to turn on until after boot up but from what I read they tell you not to open any sites for a few minutes after booting up if you use this. That just defeats the whole purpose.
Hmmm. Here's a list of links to get started with, I would suggest reading them all first, grab a beer or coffee, and look for matching instructions which would most likely be safe to follow. The last link is a independent, but also has some info.
My advice, should you dare to consider, is DO NOT do a windows re-install. That almost never solves issues, only hides them momentarily. Also, do not waste time with any uboob vids promising to solve problems as 8 out of 10 are click bait and they only just re-show the last guys video. Much easier to copy the text from the websites, print it out to try stuff.
I have my own thoughts what's happening but looking at the microsoft site is probably much safer for you. Also, be aware that people who answer on microsoft aren't always the MS techs, but users as well trying to be helpful.
MS update is most certainly broken right now as there are at least 4 background services that won't release after doing their jobs. That is a memory problem with MS, not ours. Hopefully MS will correct these problems soon. I've always hated MS update.
Aside of update, I think you may have driver issues, maybe with your graphics.
Forgot to ask, did you install or add any new hardware, 3rd party software or new items like a soundbar or something before the problem surfaced? Any thing at all?
gl
https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/windows-10-hangs-on-loading-screen-on-startup/f3c2e596-ce50-4a54-a03d-7b11da5bbfe3
https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/insider/forum/all/windows-10-hangs-on-startup/75568c3b-5e32-467a-ac1d-72375abfdcdd
https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/windows-10-freezes-on-startup/6387ff9c-1e8f-44ae-8a81-3edc89cc2644
https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/windows-10-hangs-on-boot-up/a5526c9b-634a-4553-acff-de92804dab96
https://techcult.com/fix-windows-10-freezes-on-startup/
Ok so I tried that and the most recent update that I didn't have was KB5020030. Installed it and timed the reboot - started it at 9:09 and the Welcome screen finally went away at 9:21. I think it is getting worse. I am just leaving the computer on all week and only turning it off on weekends because I just can't be waiting this long to set things up in the morning. But I wanted to thank you for the suggestion.
There has been quite a lot of reports to MS about it's update programs messing up in the last two updates. There's a couple of background processes that have to do with win update services that aren't unloading it seems.
Since you allow updates, go to MS and look for the most recent updates and service updates.
MS has known about this issue and it's been happening since they revamped their update groups.
I'm thinking now that maybe Avast is causing the slow boot and found this which is interesting:
https://asapguide.com/stop-avast-startup/
Only problem is remembering not to start up any programs for a few minutes after boot. Not sure how that solves things. I could either leave it the way it is and wait a few minutes to boot, or I could change that Avast setting so that it is on delay but I am still waiting, right? Six of one half dozen of the other! lol
I really don't have that many apps running and it is happening on three different machines so they don't all even have the same apps. lol So I am guessing you are not experiencing this problem?
I'd have to look to see what apps are running
So I you saying that I should turn off all startup apps? This will make it boot faster?
It's the window clean to the left then type startup
What are startup apps? I just power up the computer and this happens. Not sure what apps you are referring to.
Have you tried the startup apps?
Anyone having really slow startups recently on Win10? This has been a problem for me for the past few months probably after an update - all three computers taking about 8-10 minutes to start up - the Welcome screen just sits there forever. I have tried all of these fixes and none work:
https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/windows-10-slow-boot-issues/
Thx Zorax,
I changed that setting from 100% to 125% and got the Taskbar font bigger and I can now at least read the Time & Date.
But it seems all title bars and menus got smaller...
Oh well, small sacrifices must be made to enjoy the advanced features provided by 10 over 7...
(I'll let you know when I find any I use***)
***Although it's cool that multi-monitor users can have different sizes/settings applied to different screens without changing their resolution sizes, I think that it's a consequence of some other design changes in Win 10 rather than an intentional included feature.
Perhaps look at this part of 'Settings'.
lower left taskbar > 'Settings'
> Ease of Access
> Display
>> Make everything bigger
Also look at 'Magnifier'
'>' = click name or selection.
Goldilocks said it best "this one is too-hot" ... (big, small or just right) ...
I got the taskbar font a little bigger by increasing the window size slider to 150% but now everything else is too big...oh well...
I am clueless, sorry
Thx Flo - was able to set up the Start menu "better" .
Is there a way to increase the Taskbar text size?
I'm still having problems navigating my "new & improved" Win 10 machine but trying to give it the benefit of the doubt....Wondering how much better Win 11 is over Win 10 vs Win 7...
Seems the color & text settings in Win 10 are disbursed throughout the software whereas Win 7 had most settings consolidated in Personalization - Windows Color and Appearance
LOL - now wait 'til I try to change Palette Title, Message Boxes and Tool Tips...
Try RIGHT clicking on them, then unpin from start
Can the Start button in Win-10 be changed?
Or is there a "Classic" theme available like in Win-7?
I'm having much trouble finding where stuff is located on my "new" Win 10 machine.
Desired Start button changes example:
Remove the red X area...or have a menu listing or have just the green arrow icons shown when Start is clicked
I will be traveling to Mexico later this month. I will taking my laptop and want to be able to make some stock trades. If I get a VPN address, will I be able to have security when using the hotel wifi? Thanks in advance!!
Don't wana speak too soon >
but I ran 3 System Restores & it seems a little-better today .. News Bulletins still load slow, but finally loads .. I haven't gotten the No Internet so far today ...
" Fingas X'd ... !!
" Yeah, I haven't changed any settings that I know of ... soo, this is very odd ... Also I get a Pop-Up saying >
No Internet, or you are offline " ...
...all this while the loading-wheel keeps spinning ...
Same thing with some of mine Larry,,,,some come in a code only,,,mine is in an old SBC email which was under yahoo at one time.........
I use Yahoo-Mail & lately some e-mails won't completely load up ..
Given time tho, they eventually do load up ...
Especially if it is a News Bulletin .. Started about a month ago ..
Could it be that I need to Raise my Memory Settings, or something .. ??
If so, I've forgotten how to do it ..
Windows-7 ~ 64-bit ...
Any help is surely appreciated ... !!
It started working again.
I did both stuck on three black windows and which do not close and do not load anything so need to shutdown in Task manager.
I suggest doing a restart (not a shutdown/restart) to clear your RAM. Then reopen TWS.
My TWS program (trader work station) by interactive broker is not loading. Using 54% of available memory. Any suggestions?
How to Secure Your Router from Hackers
It is important to be aware of what kind of dangers seek you through Wi-Fi connection and how to secure your home router. Today, most homes are filled with a wide range of devices that require an internet connection.
Such devices are referred to as being “smart” and offer a convenience that traditional devices cannot. Consequently, everything in a modern home from the TV to even the fridge is connected to a common home network via Wi-Fi.
Hackers (includes state-sponsored) are always coming up with new ways to take advantage of our vulnerabilities.
Here are our top 10 tips on how to secure your router from hackers:
1. Change the Default Login Credentials:
This is the first and most important step to take when you buy a new router. Router manufacturers usually assign routers with a common username and password. It’s like they want us to get hacked!
Credentials can be dangerous as hackers can easily find them online. I can’t tell you how many passwords I have had to change from the default “password”.
These hackers can then take full control of the Wi-Fi when they change the password. Therefore, it’s a no-brainer that you need to change the username and password as soon as you connect to the home network for the first time.
Also, make sure to choose a hard password. Most sophisticated hackers have tools that can easily test thousands of passwords. Having an outrageously strong password will keep you more secure.
I highly recommend a password manager like LastPass. I personally manage my passwords in LastPass; they are all 20+ random character passwords that would be virtually impossible to crack in a brute force attack.
2. Use Wireless Network Encryption:
Encryption works by scrambling data using a code. Without this code, hackers will have a hard time deciphering your data. The current most secure encryption to use is WPA2.
However, WPA2 is fairly new and earlier devices may not have it. Therefore, it is recommended that you upgrade your router to enhance performance and security.
You can check on the encryption you are using when you set up the Wi-Fi password.
3. Secure Your Router with a Virtual Private Network (VPN):
A premium VPN is the all-in-one protection that you may ever need. They allow you to communicate over an unsecured or unencrypted network more confidentially.
Additionally, a VPN hides your location by altering your IP address. Installing a VPN on your router will enable all your devices to gain these benefits.
A good VPN will likely cost you a couple of extra bucks, but it is the surest way to protect your data. You should consider exploring VPN app reviews before making the purchase.
4. Hide Your Network’s Visibility:
This is yet another simple change that could easily save you from cyber-attacks. When initially setting up your router security, you are given the option to set the Wi-Fi on a publicly visible network or Service Set Identifier (SSID).
Manufacturers almost always have this set to “on” as a default.
This can make it hectic to connect to a network especially if your neighbor has the same router. Hiding your SSID will not only help mitigate attacks, but it will also make it less of a nightmare when your mother-in-law is trying to connect to your router. I mean, how many “Linksys” or "Netgear" SSID’s do you see in your neighborhood?
Simply set visibility to “off” and you have just improved your router security.
5. Turn off Wi-Fi When Not in Use:
Another great tip on how to secure your router from hacking is to simply turn off the Wi-Fi. We are often told that the simplest solution is often the best solution.
Well, it doesn’t get any simpler than turning off your Wi-Fi when it is not in use. Hackers are opportunists that will take advantage of your carelessness.
Turning your Wi-Fi off may just be the precaution that saves you from an attack. It is not a hard thing to do especially when you consider it only takes a minute or so to reboot the whole system.
6. Update Router’s Software:
Hackers and developers are always in constant battle. Developers find vulnerabilities in their systems and fix them with updates.
On the other hand, hackers up their game and find more vulnerabilities. It’s a vicious circle.
The best way to ensure you remain safe in this war is to constantly update your router’s firmware. This will ensure that you block some older vulnerabilities and stay one step ahead of the hackers.
7. Use Firewalls:
A firewall protects your network from intruders and keeps your router secure. Just like a real wall, a firewall protects your network from intruders.
Most new Wi-Fi routers have a built-in version. It is important to ensure that you have this firewall turned on to protect your broadband connections.
Also, these firewalls often receive regular updates to improve their security.
8. Find the Best Secure Router Location:
It may seem trivial, but the location you place your Wi-Fi also affects the security. These devices often have a range with the signal getting smaller with distance.
This means if you place your device at just the right place, you can limit the number of signals leaving your home. Try to keep the router in a centralized location.
This will make it difficult for hackers as they will have a hard time explaining why they are hanging outside with their laptop held up near the window.
It is important to note that some newer devices come with a distance feature. Such devices are awesome as you can easily limit the signal.
9. Use MAC Address Filtering:
Most devices have an in-built feature that lets you identify a physical address or Media Access Control (MAC) address.
This feature lets you limit the number of devices that are connected to the home network.
You have the option to restrict or approve a MAC address as the all-powerful “admin” (remember to change that, see #1!!).
Also, this feature allows you to block unidentified devices from your network. Apart from hackers, this is also useful for taking care of freeloaders.
10. Disable Remote Administration:
Most devices have a remote administration function. This is meant to be a convenient way to maintain control of your device… remotely.
However, hackers can easily take advantage of vulnerabilities in this system and take over as the admin. Therefore, if you are not using this feature, I would recommend that you turn it off.
Summary:
1. Change the Default Login Credentials.
2. Use Wireless Network Encryption.
3. Secure Your Router with a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
4. Hide Your Network’s Visibility.
5. Turn off Wi-Fi When Not in Use.
6. Update Router’s Software.
7. Use Firewalls.
8. Find the Best Secure Router Location.
9. Use MAC Address Filtering.
10. Disable Remote Administration.
https://www.shtfpreparedness.com/how-to-secure-your-router-from-hackers/
.
I still use Windows 7 so dealing with the multiple tasks required to Save Images/Pictures/Screen-Captures is much more involved than when using Gadwin IMO.
Also - I'd rather use the mouse to perform repetitive tasks than the key board...
Never was able to surpass 15 words-per-minute since high school typing class ;^)
There are some benefits but also some limitations to using either the Print Screen Key or the Snipping Tool when compared to the simple single-click feature that Gadwin provides.
All three save captured screen images to the "clipboard" but Print Screen and Snipping Tool require additional steps that must be taken in order to "Save" to disc... Some of the additional tasks that may be required include:
first taking the screen capture image
then opening Paint (or a Word program etc.)
then pasting into those windows
then naming and saving them...
Very nice. Thanks. The capture programs may be very helpful with multi-monitors and save to where you want, but the ability to screen capture is a free part of most all windows. Also, windows has a pre installed program called 'snipping tool' which you may or may not have to setup a shortcut for.
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/keyboard-shortcut-for-print-screen-601210c0-b3a9-7b58-bc40-bae4dcf5f108
https://www.dell.com/support/kbdoc/en-us/000147539/how-to-use-the-print-screen-key-in-microsoft-windows-operating-systems
Using the Print Screen Key in Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8.1 and Windows 8
To capture the entire screen:
Press the Windows logo key + PrntScrn key together.
On tablets, press the Windows logo button + the volume down button together. (The screenshot is saved in the Screenshots folder in the Pictures folder.)
To capture all active windows:
Press the PrntScrn key.
To capture a single active window:
Tap or click on the window you want to capture.
Press the Alt + PrntScrn keys together.
Here's a few freeware utilities you may find useful...
X Mouse button control
Assign one click functions to your multi-button mouse
Gadwin Printscreen 4.7 ...and... Gadwin Printscreen 6.5
These two image capturing programs capture the images that are under the cursor with a single click:
4.7 captures the open window image, names it and saves it to a file of your choosing
6.5 captures the entire screen image, names it and saves it to a file of your choosing
All three freeware utilities can be setup to operate automatically whenever Windows starts
and need no further monitoring for their operations to perform...
I use X Mouse to assign the scroll wheel button to Gadwin 4.7 and assign a side button to Gadwin 6.5.
Multiple clicking is not required nor is opening Microsoft Paint, pasting, naming and "Saving to File"
(such as when you use the Windows Print Screen key or the Windows Snipping Tool. )
These single click functions are especially useful if you are running multiple monitors
with a lot of open windows (such as a Trade Station layout).
Gadwin 4.7 -- Just the open window that's under the cursor
Gadwin 6.5 -- the monitor screen under the cursor
Print Screen key...paste to Paint
Google Chrome emergency update. Current version should be 99.0.4844.84
Not sure about Macs
Well, one thing you should look into if you purchase win10 any version, is seeing if you can do a 'in place' upgrade. I believe that is the process that does not wipe any personal or programs but only upgrades the os itself. Clean install can and mostly will wipe out your saved everything.
Clean install may or may not move things somewhere on the drive to put it back after.
Definitely you'll need to read each process to understand just what it's doing.
The actual process are much faster and pretty dependable. And they walk you through it as well.
Hope I've given you some assistance in a timely matter.
Zorax! I wanted to thank you for all your help. Damn nice of you.
I have more more question if yo don't mind? Decided toinstall Win 10 Pro.,so how hard is to install?
Did your screen background change? You may have the default look since the redo.
Since it's working pretty much you might want to look at a restore point to a time before you think the trouble started. A restore point takes you back to a date hopefully before troubles started and returns to that working state, minus anything you installed since that date.
Restore from a system restore point.
This option takes your PC back to an earlier point in time, called a system restore point. Restore points are generated when you install a new app or driver, and when you create a restore point manually. Restoring won’t affect your personal files, but it will remove apps, drivers, and updates installed after the restore point was made.
In the search box on the taskbar, type control panel, and then choose it from the list of results
In the Control Panel search box, type recovery.
Select Recovery > Open System Restore.
In the Restore system files and setting box, select Next.
Select the restore point that you want to use in the list of results, and then select Scan for affected programs.
Notes:
If you don’t see the restore point that you want to use, select the Show more restore points check box to see more restore points.
If you’re not seeing any restore points, it might be because system protection isn’t turned on. Here’s how to check:
In the search box on the taskbar, type control panel, and then choose it from the list of results.
In the Control Panel search box, type recovery.
Select Recovery > Configure System Restore > Configure and see if the Turn on system protection option is selected.
If the Turn on system protection option is not selected, system protection isn’t turned on and there aren't any restore points. In this scenario, you won't be able to recovery your PC using a system restore point and will need to use one of the other recovery options listed on this page.
If the Turn on system protection option is selected, continue with step 6.
You'll see a list of items that will be deleted if you remove this restore point. If you're OK with the deletions, select Close > Next > Finish.
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/recovery-options-in-windows-31ce2444-7de3-818c-d626-e3b5a3024da5#bkmk_restore_from_system_restore_point
I mean I could not down load programs,could not use my printer, most om drivers had disappeared, it was so bad I had do a Dell Datasafe Restore. It works However, it jut does not look like my old windows7 sp1, Was I suppose to have the window 7 discs?
Okay. What do you mean can't download.
From the internet?
Can't use the right mouse button to bring up the little drop down menu of the mouse?
Save as isn't there?
Can you go to a website and download a PDF from the site? Or anything else?
Could you mean a windows update?
Hello Zorax, sorry it took so long to get back to you. I've been out of town. I have a Dell desktop with Win 7,SP-1.I did a Dell Datasafe restore. However, I still do not have the Windows 7 CD. After the restore I still can not download, And It just does,nt look like Windows also, thanks for the reply,
Hi vegas. We need a little more info about your desktop.
Operating system
Version number of the operating system
Steps you're trying to take to download something.
From the internet? Your computer to USB drive? etc.
Do have virus programs running in the background?
My desktop will not download ANY programs, Any help?
Good morning. Does anyone know where I can get when does 10 at a discounted price or for free?
Hope you're doing much better now.
One way of locating a downloaded file is through your browser 'download' icon. In firefox, at least two places will bring up your download history.
Under top menu 'Tools' is 'downloads in the drop down menu, and depending on your settings, it's also to the far right under the 'hamburger icon or three line thingie..' Firefox also has an icon pop up during the download that you can click on and go to folder location. Check your browser for it's download icon on the menu bar or elsewhere or in browser settings.
It sounds like it's going to a program folder, which is sometimes your default download folder which could be your local disk c:\downloads.
ThisPc - click on C drive - click on Program files
This board is for discussing and attempting to solve problems we have with our computers. The only rule we see necessary at this time is to be civil.
Please tell us all the info you have regarding your problem such as operating system, what you were doing when the problem occurred, etc. If you tell us the brand and model number of your computer it will help tremendously in finding the answer. We do not claim to be experts but we'll try to help.
Google is the best source of information for most computer problems. Almost without fail, there are plenty of people in cyberspace that are having or have had the same problem you have. Search for the answer.
The most common problem is malware of some sort. I am using this term to include rogue downloads, popups, and spyware. There are many legitimate programs to help you manage these problems. The effectiveness of these programs changes all the time so the list will change also. Currently, the best site I've seen along these lines is Securitytango. Follow their Let's Dance link and you will be able to fix most malware problems.
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