In today's digital age, maintaining the health of your computer is crucial for optimal performance. A well-functioning system not only enhances productivity but also prolongs the lifespan of your hardware. To achieve this, several monitoring programs can help you assess your computer's health, from temperature and hardware performance to software integrity. Here, we'll explore a few of the best programs for monitoring the health of your computer, delving into their features, strengths, and how they can benefit you.

HWMonitor

HWMonitor is a powerful, user-friendly program that focuses on hardware monitoring. This tool provides real-time data on the sensors of your computer's components, including the CPU, GPU, hard drives, and motherboard.

Key Features:

• Temperature and Voltage Monitoring: HWMonitor displays detailed readings of current temperatures and voltages for various parts of your system, helping diagnose overheating and power issues.
• Fan Speed Tracking: It monitors fan speeds and can alert you if fans are not running efficiently.
• Logging Capabilities: The software allows you to log data over time, providing insight into performance trends and potential future problems.

HWMonitor's simplicity and effectiveness make it a top choice, especially for those prioritizing hardware monitoring.

Speccy

Developed by Piriform, Speccy not only offers information about the health of your system but also provides a comprehensive overview of your computer's specifications.

Key Features:

• Detailed System Information: With a clean interface, Speccy breaks down every system component and displays CPU, RAM, motherboard, graphics, storage, and more information.
• Temperature Monitoring: Speccy allows you to see the current temperature of your CPU, motherboard, and hard drives, helping prevent overheating.
• Quick Summaries: The summary view delivers a quick glance at what may need attention in your system.

Speccy is handy for users who want a holistic view of their computer's specifications while overseeing its health.

MSI Afterburner

While primarily designed for gamers and overclocking enthusiasts, MSI Afterburner has robust monitoring capabilities to enhance your computer's health management.

Key Features:

• Performance Monitoring: Users can track GPU performance, including usage percentage, clock speeds, and temperature, in real time.
• Custom Fan Profiles: It allows users to create personalized fan curves for better cooling, ensuring optimal thermal conditions during intense gaming or heavy workloads.
• On-Screen Display (OSD): Users can enable OSD for real-time monitoring during gameplay or other high-performance tasks.

MSI Afterburner is excellent for avid gamers and those looking to fine-tune their graphics card for peak performance while closely monitoring GPU health.

CrystalDiskInfo

Drive health is essential for any computer, and CrystalDiskInfo specializes in monitoring storage device health using S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology) data.

Key Features:

• SMART Attributes Monitoring: CrystalDiskInfo checks various health parameters, including reallocated sectors, spin-up time, and temperature.
• Detailed Status Reports: The software provides a detailed overview of your hard drive's status, indicating if your hard drive is healthy or if there are potential issues.
• Notification System: Users can set alerts for temperature thresholds and other critical storage health indicators.

For users who primarily want to keep an eye on storage devices, CrystalDiskInfo is a reliable tool that can help prevent data loss due to drive failure.

Glary Utilities

Glary Utilities is an all-in-one system utility that provides a suite of tools designed to improve and monitor the overall health of your computer.

Key Features:

• System Cleanup: It helps remove junk files and optimize system performance, contributing to overall health.
• Registry Optimization: Glary Utilities scans for registry errors, allowing users to fix issues that could degrade performance.
• Memory Optimization: The tool includes options for releasing memory that can be used for demanding applications, ensuring smooth operation.

With its comprehensive suite of features, Glary Utilities is a fantastic tool for users who want to proactively monitor and maintain their computer's health beyond hardware monitoring.

Conclusion

Regularly monitoring your computer's health is essential for ensuring longevity and maintaining performance. The programs mentioned above offer a variety of features that cater to different needs, whether you're focused on hardware monitoring, system specifications, or overall optimization. By incorporating one or more of these tools into your routine, you can catch potential issues before they become serious problems, ensuring your computer operates smoothly for years to come. Choose the program that best fits your needs, and take a proactive step in safeguarding your computer's performance.

We've all been there. You're working on an important document or playing your favorite game, and suddenly, the application freezes. The window becomes unresponsive; no matter how much you click or tap, it just sits there. While it's frustrating, there are several methods you can use to close unresponsive applications in Windows. This article will walk you through different techniques to regain control of your system, ensuring you can efficiently handle frozen apps.

Before diving into the solutions, it's helpful to understand why applications freeze. This can happen for various reasons, including excessive memory use, conflicts with other software, or bugs within the application itself. In some cases, a program tries to complete an operation that takes too long, while resource-heavy tasks may overwhelm your system in others. Knowing this can allow you to take preventative measures and approach the issue with a focused mindset.

Using Task Manager

One of the most reliable methods to close an unresponsive app is through Task Manager. Here's how you can do it:

1. Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc or right-click on the Taskbar and select Task Manager.
2. You'll see a list of all open applications and processes in the Task Manager window. Find the app that is not responding. It is usually labeled as Not Responding in the Status column.
3. Once you've located the app, left-click on it to select it. Then, left-click on the End Task button. This will force the program to close.
4. If prompted, confirm that you wish to close the application. Keep in mind that any unsaved changes in that program may be lost.

Using Alt + F4

This method is a quick keyboard shortcut that can be effective in closing unresponsive apps:

1. Make sure the frozen app is selected. You can do this by left-clicking on the application window.
2. Press Alt + F4 on your keyboard. This command usually triggers the close action of the selected window.
3. If the application responds, you may receive a prompt asking if you'd like to save changes. If the app is still frozen, this method may not work.

Using Command Prompt

For users comfortable with command-line tools, the Command Prompt is an alternative way to close unresponsive applications.

1. Search for cmd in the Windows search box, right-click on Command Prompt / System, and select Run as administrator.
2. In the Command Prompt window, type tasklist, and press Enter. This command displays a list of all running processes along with their process IDs (PID).
3. Locate the unresponsive app in the list. Note its name (e.g., notepad.exe) or PID. Then, type taskkill /IM appname.exe /F (replace "appname.exe" with the actual name) for the app name or taskkill /PID number /F for PID. Press Enter to execute the command.

Restarting Windows Explorer

Sometimes, restarting Windows Explorer can resolve unresponsive apps without closing them. Here's how to do it:

1. As previously described, launch Task Manager with Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
2. In the Processes tab, locate Windows Explorer.
3. Right-click on Windows Explorer and select Restart. This action will refresh your Desktop and Taskbar, which may resolve the unresponsive issue without the need to close all applications.

System Restart

A system restart may be necessary if all else fails and the unresponsive application hangs persistently. While this will close all applications and could result in losing unsaved work, it's sometimes the fastest way to regain control:

1. If Task Manager is responsive, select Run new task, type shutdown.exe /r /f /t 00, and hit Enter. This command restarts your computer immediately.
2. If Task Manager is also unresponsive, you can forcibly restart your computer by pressing and holding the power button until it shuts down. Please wait a few seconds, then turn it back on.

Having unresponsive applications can significantly interrupt your workflow or leisure activities, but knowing how to deal with them can minimize frustration. Each method has advantages, from using Task Manager to executing a simple keyboard shortcut.

While the techniques above can quickly resolve issues, it is also worth considering preventative measures such as keeping your software updated, regularly restarting your computer, and monitoring resource use through Task Manager to avoid future situations involving unresponsive apps. By being prepared with these tools, you can tackle unresponsive applications with confidence and efficiency.

I often get asked, "What version of Windows should I get, Home or Professional?". And that all depends on how you are going to use your computer. So, in this article, I'll explain the difference between the Home and Professional versions of Windows.

One of the primary differences between Windows Home and Professional is their target audience. Windows Home is designed specifically for personal and home users. It includes features that cater to everyday computing needs such as web browsing, streaming, gaming, and primary productivity tasks.

On the other hand, Windows Professional is geared towards business and professional environments. It includes additional features to support the requirements of small businesses and enterprises, such as enhanced security, network management, and remote access capabilities.

The history of the two versions of Windows goes back to 1985, when Windows was released. It went through the years, getting improvements and name changes: Windows 1, 2, 3, 95, 98, 98SE, and ME. It eventually became the default operating system on most personal computers.

Then, in 1993, Microsoft released Windows NT, which was meant for the corporate and enterprise environments. It, too, went through the years getting improvements and name changes: Windows NT 3.1, 3.5, 3.51, 4.0, and 2000. It became prevalent in the corporate and enterprise networking environment.

Then Microsoft decided to combine the two current operating systems, Windows ME (personal) and Windows 2000 (corporate) into one, Windows XP. And that is where the two versions of Windows came from. There are a couple of other versions, S-Mode (a restricted version of Home) and Enterprise (every bell and whistle), but neither one is very popular.

I heard an analogy years ago about the difference between the Home and Pro versions. It goes like this: If Microsoft published two different versions, Home and Pro, of a book named Windows, the pages of the network section of the Home book would be stuck together.

Windows Home is designed specifically for personal and home users. It includes features that cater to everyday computing needs such as web browsing, streaming, gaming, and primary productivity tasks. On the other hand, Windows Professional is geared towards business and professional environments. It includes additional features to support the requirements of small businesses and enterprises, such as enhanced security, network management, and remote access capabilities.

So, with Windows Home being the standard version, what features does the Professional version include? The three (3) most significant features that might get you to purchase the Professional version are:

• BitLocker Encryption: This tool allows users to encrypt their hard drives, providing an extra layer of security for sensitive data. This feature is particularly beneficial for professionals who handle confidential information.
• Group Policy Management: This feature enables IT administrators to manage multiple PCs with greater productivity, ensuring that security and software deployment policies are uniformly enforced across an organization.
• Remote Desktop: Windows Professional allows users to connect to their desktop remotely, a crucial feature for businesses that implement remote work or require IT support for machines not physically present.

For everyday users, particularly gamers, the differences in performance between Home and Pro are minimal. Both versions support DirectX 12 and the latest gaming technologies. However, the ability to access Hyper-V (available only in the Professional version) can benefit advanced users who want to run virtual machines or test new operating systems seamlessly.

What if the computer you purchased came with Home version of Windows? The upgrade path from Home to Pro is remarkably straightforward. You can buy an upgrade license, which allows you to transition to the Pro version without the hassle of a fresh installation. This flexibility can be particularly reassuring for users who initially purchased a Home version but realize their needs have outgrown it.

Upgrade Windows Home to Windows Pro

Windows Pro generally comes at a higher price than the Home edition, and its licensing is more complex. Businesses often opt for volume licensing agreements, which can simplify managing multiple installations and come with additional support options.

Choosing between Home and Pro ultimately depends on your specific needs. Windows Home provides a comprehensive set of features if you're a casual user looking for a reliable platform for personal tasks, web browsing, and moderate gaming. However, if you're a professional or part of a business that requires enhanced security measures, advanced administrative tools, and support for remote work, investing in Windows Pro is a decision you can make with confidence.

By understanding the differences between these two operating system versions, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your lifestyle or business needs. Whether you prioritize security, additional features, or even customer support, weighing these elements will ultimately lead you to the correct version of Windows for your circumstances. This understanding empowers you to make a decision that is best for you.

With the release of Windows 11, gamers have a sleek and modern operating system designed to enhance the gaming experience. However, to achieve the best performance from your games, it's essential to tweak a few settings and make some adjustments. Here’s a detailed guide on how to boost gaming performance on Windows 11.

Enable Game Mode

Windows 11 has a feature called Game Mode, which optimizes your PC for gaming by allocating more system resources to your games. By turning on game mode, the CPU (Central Processing Unit) and GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) will prioritize running games, preventing updates and notifications from running and reducing background resources. To enable Game Mode:

1. Left-click on the Start button to bring up the Start menu. In the list of pinned apps on the Start menu, left-click on Settings.
   or
   Right-click on the Start button to bring up the Power User menu. Left-click on Settings.
2. In the left-hand column, left-click on Gaming.
3. In the right-hand column, left-click on Game Mode.
4. Toggle the Game Mode switch to the On position.

Adjust GPU Settings

Both NVIDIA and AMD provide dedicated software to optimize GPU (Graphic Processing Unit) settings. For NVIDIA users, the NVIDIA Control Panel allows you to adjust settings for individual games, such as turning on or off specific features that could enhance performance. AMD users can use the Radeon Software for similar adjustments. Focusing on performance over quality in these applications can lead to a smoother gaming experience.

You will also find that if you have multiple monitors of the same make/model, the software from AMD and NVIDIA allows you to combine two or more displays into a single desktop. AMD Eyefinity works with AMD Radeon series GPUs, NVIDIA Mosaic works with RTX and Quadro series GPUs

Adjust virtual memory settings

Windows 11 uses a paging file as Virtual Memory to supplement physical RAM (Random Access Memory). When Windows 11 runs out of available RAM, it will move inactive apps to the Virtual Memory (paging file). You can adjust virtual memory settings to improve memory utilization.

How to manage Windows 11 Virtual Memory

Adjust visual effects

Windows 11 provides various visual effects that, while useful for general use, can drain resources during gaming. To adjust these settings:

1. Left-click on the Start button to bring up the Start menu. In the list of pinned apps on the Start menu, left-click on Settings.
   or
   Right-click on the Start button to bring up the Power User menu. Left-click on Settings.
2. In the left-hand column, left-click on System.
3. Scroll down the right-hand column and left-click on About.
4. In the right-hand column, left-click the Advanced system settings link.
5. The System Properties dialog box will appear, and the Advanced tab should be active. If not, left-click on it to bring it up.
6. Left-click on the Settings ... button in the Performance section.
7. The Performance Options dialog box should appear, and the Visual Effects tab should be active. If not, left-click on it to bring it up.

There are four (4) options:

• Let Windows choose what's best for my computer
• Adjust for best appearance
• Adjust for best performance
• Custom (allows you to select which visual effects to turn on or off manually)

Use an SSD for faster load times

When possible, use a Solid State Drive (SSD) rather than a traditional Hard Disk Drive (HDD) to install the operating system (Windows 11) and games. SSDs provide significantly faster load times, which can improve your overall gaming experience and reduce waiting times during game startups and level loads.

The optimal gaming system will have two (2) or more drives, one SSD for the OS and games, and one or more HDDs for storage/data. To save space on the drive with Windows installed, you can move your personal folders (Desktop, Documents, Downloads, Music, Pictures, and Videos) to a second drive (HDD).

How to change the location of personal folders in Windows 11

Use DirectStorage and Auto HDR

Windows 11 supports advanced gaming technologies such as DirectStorage and Auto HDR. DirectStorage simplifies loading large game assets, enabling faster load times and more detailed visuals. Auto HDR enhances games' color range and brightness, making them look better without a significant performance trade-off. Ensure these features are enabled in your settings for an optimal gaming experience.

DirectStorage is a new feature that improves game load times. It works automatically if your PC and game are compatible. You can quickly check if your PC supports DirectStorage: First, open the Game Bar by pressing the Windows logo key + G, select the Gear icon, and select Gaming Features. Auto HDR is a feature in Windows 11 that automatically upgrades the color and brightness levels of Standard Dynamic Range (SDR) games to High Dynamic Range (HDR). This enhances the visual quality of games.

Optimizing gaming performance in Windows 11 involves a combination of system settings, hardware considerations, and personal preferences. Following these tips and making the necessary adjustments can boost your gaming experience, allowing for smoother gameplay, faster load times, and an overall more enjoyable gaming environment. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a competitive player, optimizing your setup will help unlock the full potential of your gaming rig in Windows 11.

Are you looking at getting a wireless device for your computer and need to know if it has Bluetooth? Or maybe you already have a Bluetooth device and need to know how to connect it. Here is how to turn on and set up Bluetooth in Windows 11.

Bluetooth technology allows you to connect a variety of devices wirelessly, whether it’s headphones, keyboards, mice, or smartphones. With Windows 11, enabling and managing Bluetooth is designed to be user-friendly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you turn on and set up Bluetooth on your Windows 11 system.

Check for Bluetooth

Before diving into Windows 11 settings, let's make sure your computer has Bluetooth. Most laptops and some desktop computers come with Bluetooth. Usually, it is built into the WiFi network adapter. But you can also get them in a USB receiver.

The first place you want to check is the Device Manager. The quickest and easiest way to do that is by using the Power User menu. You can bring up the Power User menu by right-clicking on the Start button or pressing the Windows Logo key + X, then left-click on Device Manager. Look for the category labeled Bluetooth. If you see it listed, your computer has Bluetooth capability.

If you do not see Bluetooth listed and think your computer came with it, check the specifications inside the user manual for your system. A quick Internet search for your computer's make/model + manual should find you a copy of the user manual.

Turn on Bluetooth

Once you have confirmed that your device has Bluetooth capability, the next step is to access the Bluetooth settings inside the Settings app. To access the Bluetooth section of the Settings app, just:

1. Open the Settings app by left-clicking on the Start button and selecting the Settings app (gear icon), or press the Windows logo key + I on your keyboard.
2. In the left-hand column of the Settings app, left-click on Bluetooth & devices.

Look for the Bluetooth toggle switch in the right-hand column. Left-click on it to turn Bluetooth on or off (it should turn blue when enabled). Check for a hardware switch if the option is grayed out or unavailable. Some laptops might have a physical switch or a function key (usually marked with a Bluetooth icon) that enables or disables Bluetooth. Once Bluetooth is activated, you can pair it with other devices.

Pair a device

1. Left-click on Add device at the top of the Bluetooth & devices category.
2. On the Add a device window that appears, select Bluetooth. Make sure the device you want to connect (like headphones or a keyboard) is discoverable. This usually involves holding down the pairing button or following specific instructions from the device’s manual.
3. After a moment, you should see the device appear in the list of available devices. Left-click on it, and then click Connect.
4. Follow any additional prompts that may appear, such as entering a passcode, if required. Once paired, you will receive a notification confirming the connection.

Troubleshooting Bluetooth issues

If you encounter issues while trying to connect or turn on Bluetooth, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

• Restart your computer - Restarting can resolve many software-related issues, including Bluetooth connectivity problems.
• Run the Bluetooth troubleshooter - In Settings, navigate to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters and run the Bluetooth troubleshooter to identify and fix issues.
• Ensure the device is discoverable - Ensure the device you're trying to connect is not already paired with another device and is set to be discoverable.
• Check the Bluetooth driver - Go back to Device Manager and expand the Bluetooth section. Right-click on your Bluetooth adapter and select Update driver. Choose the option to search automatically for updated drivers. Also, since most computers have Bluetooth integrated into the WiFi adapter, resetting or reinstalling the wireless network adapter will sometimes fix issues with Bluetooth.

How to troubleshoot a wireless network connection

Turning on and setting up Bluetooth in Windows 11 is a straightforward process designed with user convenience in mind. Whether you’re connecting a headset, keyboard, or other Bluetooth device, following the above steps should assist you in enabling and managing your Bluetooth connections effectively. Always remember that keeping your system and drivers updated will minimize connectivity issues and enhance your experience with Bluetooth devices.