Tech Advice

How to Change the Taskbar Size in Windows 11

With the release of Windows 11, Microsoft introduced a revamped taskbar sporting a sleek, modern design. While many users have embraced this change, some may prefer to adjust the size of the taskbar according to their preferences. In this article, we will guide you on how to change the taskbar size in Windows 11.

. Open the Registry Editor

First, you’ll need to access the Registry Editor. Press `Win + R` keys simultaneously to open the Run dialog box and type `regedit`, then hit Enter.

2. Locate Taskbar Settings in Registry Editor

Once you have the Registry Editor open, navigate to the following directory:
`HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced`

3. Modify TaskbarSI Value

In the Advanced folder, search for an entry named `TaskbarSI`. If it doesn’t exist, create a new DWORD (32-bit) value and name it `TaskbarSI`.

To modify its value, right-click on `TaskbarSI`, select ‘Modify,’ and ensure that ‘Hexadecimal’ is selected under ‘Base.’ Now you can set the taskbar size by changing the value data:

– Small: Set Value data to ‘0’

– Medium (Default): Set Value data to ‘1’

– Large: Set Value data to ‘2’

Click ‘OK’ after entering your desired value.

4. Restart Windows Explorer or Your Device

After adjusting the taskbar size, you’ll need to restart Windows Explorer or your device for changes to take effect.
To restart Windows Explorer:

a) Right-click on an empty space in the taskbar and choose ‘Task Manager.’

b) Locate ‘Windows Explorer’ in the Processes tab.

c) Right-click it and select ‘Restart.’

If you prefer to restart your device, click on Start > Power > Restart.

That’s it! Once the system is back up, you should see the taskbar resized according to your chosen settings. Remember that changing the taskbar size in Windows 11 may affect icon scaling and accessibility features, so it’s essential to pick a size that works best for you and your device.

Top 7 Ways to Fix Outlook Not Receiving Emails from Gmail on Windows

Introduction:

Emails have become an essential mode of communication for personal and professional activities. When Outlook does not receive Gmail emails on a Windows system, it can cause interruptions in your daily routine. Fear not; here are the top 7 ways to fix this issue and get you back on track.

1.Enable Gmail IMAP:

Outlook uses the IMAP protocol to communicate with Gmail. Ensure that IMAP is enabled in your Gmail account settings by logging into your Gmail account, navigating to the settings, clicking “See all settings,” selecting the “Forwarding and POP/IMAP” tab, and finally enabling “IMAP Access.”

2.Configure Outlook Correctly:

Check that your Outlook email client is correctly configured with your Gmail account. Head over to the “File” tab in Outlook, click on “Account Settings,” and confirm that your username, password, incoming mail server (imap.gmail.com), outgoing mail server (smtp.gmail.com), and port numbers (993 for IMAP and 465 or 587 for SMTP) are accurate.

3.Verify Internet Connection:

A stable internet connection is necessary for Outlook to synchronize emails with Gmail. Confirm you are connected to a reliable network by browsing websites or performing an internet speed test.

4.Remove Filters & Rules:

Sometimes, email filters or rules in both Gmail and Outlook can hinder email synchronizations. Thoroughly inspect your email filters by visiting your Gmail settings under “Filters and Blocked Addresses.” Similarly, investigate any Outlook rules via the “Rules & Alerts” option in the “Home” tab.

5.Check Spam or Junk Folders:

Occasionally, emails from Gmail unintentionally end up in Spam or Junk folders in Outlook. Regularly check these folders to ensure you’re not missing important correspondence.

6.Update Email Client Software:

Ensure that you are running the latest versions of your Outlook email client and Windows operating system. These updates frequently fix compatibility issues or known bugs that might be impeding email synchronization.

7.Firewall or Antivirus Settings:

Overzealous antivirus and firewall settings can block Outlook from receiving emails. Examine your antivirus and firewall settings, creating exceptions for Outlook to establish uninterrupted connections with Gmail servers.

Conclusion:

Incorporating these top 7 solutions should resolve the issue of Outlook not receiving emails from Gmail on your Windows computer. Regularly updating your email client, verifying configurations, and checking for any hindrances will significantly enhance your emailing experience between Gmail and Outlook.

How to Keep Sticky Notes Always on Top on Windows 10 & 11

Introduction:

Sticky Notes is a handy tool for Windows users looking to stay organized and remember important tasks. However, some users might want their notes to remain always visible on their desktop, staying on top of all other applications. In this article, we will discuss how to keep Sticky Notes always on top in Windows 10 and 11.

Steps to Keep Sticky Notes Always on Top in Windows 10 and 11:

1.Launch the Sticky Notes application:

Click the ‘Start’ button, and then search for ‘Sticky Notes’ using the search bar. Select the app from the results and open it.

2.Create a new note or open an existing one:

Once you’ve launched the app, either create a new note by clicking the “+” (plus) icon or open an existing note from your notes list.

3.Keep the note on top of other windows:

To keep a specific note always on top of other windows, follow these simple steps:

– Right-click on the note’s title bar (the area where you can click and drag to move the note).

– In the context menu that appears, click ‘Always on Top’ or ‘Pin to Top’ depending on your version.

– You’ll see a small pin icon appear in the title bar which indicates that the particular note is set to be always on top of other windows.

4.Manage pinned notes visibility:

If you want to change the visibility settings of your pinned notes, simply follow these steps:

– Right-click on the note’s title bar again.

– In the context menu, click ‘Always on Top’ or ‘Pin to Top’ again to deselect it.

– The pin icon will disappear, and the note will no longer stay on top of other windows.

Troubleshooting Tips:

If you’re unable to find the ‘Always on Top’ or ‘Pin to Top’ option, try updating your Sticky Notes application. To do this:

– Open the Microsoft Store app on your computer.

– Click the three horizontal dots in the upper-right corner and select ‘Downloads and updates’ from the menu.

– Click ‘Get updates’, and wait for the store to check for updates for your installed applications, including Sticky Notes.

– If there is an update available, it will be downloaded and installed automatically.

Conclusion:

Sticky Notes is a convenient tool for keeping track of important information, reminders, and tasks. By following the steps mentioned above, you can ensure that your notes are always visible on your desktop to help you stay organized and focused throughout your digital day. Whether using Windows 10 or 11, keep your notes within easy reach by keeping them always on top of other windows.

How to Delete Unsent Messages on an iPhone

Introduction:

At times, we type a message and realize that we don’t want to send it anymore. In such moments, it’s essential to know how to delete unsent messages on an iPhone. This article will guide you through the easy process of deleting unsent messages on your iPhone.

Step 1: Open the Messages App

Locate the Messages app on your iPhone’s home screen and tap on it to open the application.

Step 2: Locate the Unsent Message

Search for the message thread with the unsent message you want to delete. Tap on the conversation to open it.

Step 3: Tap and Hold the Unsent Message

Upon locating the unsent message, tap and hold your finger on it until a set of options appear on your screen.

Step 4: Select “More” from the Options

From the options that pop up, tap on “More” which can be found in the lower-right corner of your iPhone screen.

Step 5: Choose “Delete”

A circle should appear to the left of the message text that needs to be deleted. Tap on this circle, and a blue checkmark will show up indicating that you have selected the message. Now tap “Delete,” a trash bin icon found at the bottom-right corner of your screen.

Step 6: Confirm Your Action

A window will pop up asking you to confirm whether you want to delete the selected message or not. Tap “Delete Message” to remove it permanently from your conversation thread.

Conclusion:

That’s it! You have now successfully deleted an unsent message on your iPhone. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that unwanted or mistaken messages are promptly removed without being sent to unintended recipients. The same process can also be applied for deleting sent messages in case you need to remove them from your conversation history as well.

Next iPad and iPad Pro: USB-C Ports, M2 Chips, and What Else to Expect

Apple’s iPads have always been a popular choice for both casual and professional users, but new leaks suggest that the upcoming iPad and iPad Pro models will be more innovative and exciting than ever. With new features like USB-C ports, powerful M2 chips, and much more, these devices are set to take the tablet market by storm.

USB-C Ports: A Versatile Upgrade

While the previous generations of iPads have relied on Apple’s proprietary Lightning port for charging and data transfer, it seems like the company is finally moving toward adopting USB-C. USB-C is a versatile connector that can handle everything from data transfer to charging and even audio output. This change will make it easier for users to connect their iPads to various external devices and accessories without needing additional adapters or dongles.

M2 Chips: Next-generation Performance

Although the current M1 chips in Apple’s devices have already proven themselves capable of delivering impressive performance, rumors suggest that the next iPads might come equipped with upgraded M2 chips. The M2 chip is expected to bring significant improvements in processing power, graphics capabilities, and energy efficiency. Users can expect faster multitasking, smoother gaming experiences, and longer battery life.

Design Overhaul: Bezel-less Displays and New Sizes

Another exciting aspect of the upcoming iPads is a potential design overhaul. Leaks indicate that Apple might be getting rid of the traditional home button in favor of a bezel-less display for a sleeker look. Furthermore, there are speculations that new sizes might be introduced as well- whether it’s an even larger iPad Pro or smaller iPad Mini.

5G Capability: Faster Connectivity on the Go

As 5G networks become more widespread and accessible worldwide, it is only natural that Apple would want their devices to support this technology for faster internet speeds. The next-generation iPads are rumored to come with 5G connectivity, allowing users to enjoy improved download and streaming speeds in areas with 5G coverage.

Improved Cameras and AR Features

The cameras on iPads have never been their strongest selling point, but that might change soon. The new iPad models are expected to sport enhanced camera modules, leading to better quality photos and videos. Additionally, these devices might feature advanced augmented reality (AR) features that could showcase new and creative ways of using the cameras for work or entertainment.

Final Thoughts

The next generation of iPads promises various exciting features and improvements that will likely appeal to both casual and professional users. From USB-C ports and powerful M2 chips to 5G capability and enhanced aesthetics, these upcoming devices have plenty in store for Apple fans. Keep an eye out for official announcements from Apple as they reveal more information about the next iterations of their popular iPads.

How to Record System Audio on QuickTime

Introduction:

QuickTime is a popular multimedia player developed by Apple for both MacOS and Windows. It offers several features, including the ability to record system audio as well as your voice. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of recording system audio on QuickTime step by step.

Step 1: Install Soundflower

To record system audio using QuickTime, you will first need an additional tool called Soundflower. It captures system audio and makes it available for QuickTime to record. To install Soundflower, follow these steps:

1. Visit [Soundflower’s GitHub page](https://github.com/mattingalls/Soundflower/releases)

2. Download the most recent installation package for your system.

3. Open the downloaded package and follow the onscreen instructions to install Soundflower.

Step 2: Set up Soundflower

Once you have installed Soundflower, you need to set it up as an output device for your audio.

1. Click on the Apple menu and go to ‘System Preferences.’

2. Open ‘Sound.’

3. In the ‘Output’ tab, select ‘Soundflower (2ch)’ as your output device.

Now, all your system audio will be routed through Soundflower instead of your speakers or headphones.

Step 3: Prepare QuickTime for Screen Recording

Before recording, make sure you set up QuickTime correctly.

1. Launch QuickTime Player.

2. Go to File > New Screen Recording.

3. Click the arrow next to the red “Record” button.

4. In the drop-down menu, select ‘Soundflower (2ch)’ as the Microphone.

Step 4: Start Recording

You are now ready to record your system audio with QuickTime.

1. Press the red “Record” button in QuickTime’s screen recording window.

2. Choose whether you want to record your full screen, or drag to select a specific area.

3. Click “Start Recording” to begin capturing system audio.

Step 5: Stop Recording

To stop recording your system audio, follow these steps:

1. Click the ‘stop’ button in the menu bar (or use the appropriate keyboard shortcut).

2. QuickTime will automatically create a video file containing the recorded system audio.

3. Save the video file to your desired location.

Conclusion:

With Soundflower and QuickTime, you can easily record system audio on your computer. This can be useful for creating video tutorials, podcasts, or other multimedia content that requires high-quality audio capture. Just remember to switch back to your regular output device in System Preferences after you’ve finished recording!

How to Make Your Own AC Unit at Home with Materials You Already Have

Introduction:

If you’ve ever been caught in the throes of a hot summer day without an air conditioner, then you understand the necessity of staying cool in any way possible. While purchasing an AC unit is the most obvious solution, it’s not always feasible for everyone. Fortunately, with a little ingenuity and some common household items, you can create your own makeshift AC unit and beat the heat without breaking the bank. In this article, we’ll guide you through how to make a DIY air cooler using materials you likely have at home.

Materials Needed:

To make your very own homemade AC unit, gather up the following materials:

1. A medium to large-sized plastic container or bucket

2. A desk fan

3. PVC pipe or another durable and hollow tube

4. Ice (either store-bought or made using your freezer)

5. A small towel or rag

6. A sharp tool for cutting holes into the container (such as a utility knife or drill)

Building The DIY AC Unit:

Step 1: Prepare the container:
Select a plastic container or bucket that is large enough to hold both the ice and has ample space for airflow around it. Make sure it has a lid that fits securely.

Step 2: Cut holes for PVC pipe and airflow:
With your sharp cutting tool, cut two holes in the lid of the container—one for placing the PVC
pipe and another for airflow. The hole for PVC should be roughly the same diameter as your pipe, while the airflow hole should be slightly smaller than the diameter of the desk fan.

Step 3: Insert PVC pipe:

Fit one end of your PVC pipe into the hole you cut for it in the lid, leaving about half its length exposed above the lid.

Step 4: Fill with ice:

Place your towel or rag on the bottom of your container, then fill it with ice.

Step 5: Position fan:

Place the desk fan top of the ventilation hole in such a way that it blows air down into the container. The ice will cool the incoming air.

Step 6: Assemble and turn on:

Place the lid, along with attached PVC pipe and desk fan, onto your container filled with ice. Turn on your desk fan and enjoy a breeze of cold air coming out of your DIY AC!

Additional Tips:

1. Experiment with different placements of your DIY air conditioner to optimize airflow in your room.

2. Make sure to check and replace the melting ice regularly to maintain a consistently cool airflow.

3. Direct the PVC pipe towards areas that need cooling the most, like seating areas or any defined workspace.

Conclusion:

A few simple household items can be transformed into an effective makeshift AC unit for those hot summer days when you need relief from the heat. This easy DIY project can save you money while still providing a substantial amount of cooling power for a room or small space. As always, make sure to follow safety precautions when using electrical appliances and sharp tools to create your homemade AC unit. Stay cool!

God of War: Ragnarok’s Touching Ending Explained

From the very beginning, God of War: Ragnarok has captivated players with its immersive and action-packed gameplay. The game’s storyline and character development have kept us invested in the heart-wrenching journey of Kratos and his son Atreus.

As we navigate through a world filled with Norse mythology, the stakes rise higher and puzzles become more challenging. And when the credits roll, we are left with a touching yet haunting finale that resonates long after the screen fades to black. Let’s dive into the ending of God of War: Ragnarok and explore its profound impact on both the characters and the players.

(Spoiler Warning: If you have not completed God of War: Ragnarok, be aware that significant plot points will be discussed in detail.)

The final battle against Odin, Thor, and other Norse mythology gods is an epic culmination of our journey. Kratos and Atreus fight valiantly to protect their loved ones and the fates as they struggle to come to terms with their roles in the greater scheme of things. As the intense combat unfolds, we see Atreus stepping up from a vulnerable boy to a skilled warrior who stands alongside his father.

As Ragnarok looms on the horizon, Kratos finally accepts his destiny as the harbinger of chaos while Atreus grapples with his true identity as Loki – Norse god of mischief. Their relationship has evolved throughout the game, building a stronger bond between father and son.

With their enemies defeated, it seems that they have cheated fate itself by averting Ragnarok for now. However, even in victory, tragedy strikes when Faye – Kratos’ wife and Atreus’ mother – passes away due to her hidden illness.

The revelation that Faye was actually a giant who foresaw her husband’s role in ending Odin’s rule is a testament to the depth of their love and her trust in Kratos. This heart-wrenching twist leaves our protagonists to mourn their loss and sets the stage for an even more significant battle ahead.

As the game concludes, we see Kratos and Atreus scatter Faye’s ashes over her homeland, fulfilling her last wish. It is a poignant moment that symbolizes their grief, growth, and acceptance of the roles they must play in shaping the future.

God of War: Ragnarok’s touching ending solidifies its position as one of the best action-adventure games of recent years. With its incredible storyline, well-developed characters, and jaw-dropping graphics, it has left an indelible mark on our gaming memories. As we eagerly anticipate possible sequels featuring new mythologies or continuing stories, there’s no denying that God of War: Ragnarok has set the standard for epic tales with heart and soul.

How to Scan a Document in Windows 11

Introduction:

Windows 11, the latest version of Microsoft’s operating system, introduces various new features and improvements. Among these is the capability to scan documents easily without the need for third-party software. In this article, we will walk you through the process of scanning a document using Windows 11.

Step 1: Connect your scanner

Before you can begin scanning, make sure your scanner is properly connected to your PC, either via USB or wirelessly, depending on the model. Consult your scanner’s user manual for specific connection instructions.

Step 2: Install scanner drivers (if necessary)

Windows 11 usually detects scanners automatically and installs the appropriate drivers, but you may need to install them manually in some cases. Visit your scanner manufacturer’s website for their most up-to-date drivers and follow their installation instructions.

Step 3: Open Scan App

Click on the Start button, then search for ‘Scan’ in the search bar that appears next to it. Click on the ‘Windows Scan’ app that appears in the search results. If you don’t have it installed already, you can download it from the Microsoft Store by clicking on ‘Get’ and following the installation prompts.

Step 4: Select your scanner

Once you have opened the Windows Scan app, make sure that your scanner is selected in the dropdown menu under ‘Scanner.’ If it isn’t listed there, check that it is correctly connected and its drivers are installed.

Step 5: Customize scanning settings

Select your desired file format for the scanned document from the ‘File type’ dropdown menu – JPEG, PNG, PDF, or TIFF. Choose between color or grayscale mode by selecting either ‘Color mode’ or ‘Grayscale mode,’ depending on your preference. You can also adjust resolution (DPI), format size (A4, letter), and orientation (portrait or landscape) based on your needs.

Step 6: Preview and scan

If your scanner supports preview functionality, click on the ‘Preview’ button to see a low-resolution preview of your document in the Windows Scan app. Adjust the scan area by moving or resizing the dotted-line selection box that appears around your document.
When you’re satisfied with your scanning settings, click on the ‘Scan’ button. The app will begin scanning and display a progress bar.

Step 7: View and save the scanned document

After the scan is completed, you can review the scanned document in the app and make any necessary adjustments. When you’re ready to save, click on the ‘Save File’ button. Choose a destination folder, enter a file name, and click on ‘Save.’

Conclusion:

Scanning documents in Windows 11 using the built-in Windows Scan app is convenient and straightforward. By following these simple steps, you can easily digitize physical documents without resorting to third-party software or subscription-based services. Happy scanning!

Enabling Standard Users to Run a Program with Admin Rights in Windows

Introduction:

In a Windows environment, it’s essential to manage user privileges to maintain system security. However, sometimes it becomes necessary to enable standard users to run specific programs that require administrator rights. This article will walk you through a step-by-step process of enabling standard users to run programs with admin rights in Windows.

Step 1: Access the Local Security Policy

– Press the “Windows” key and type “secpol.msc”.

– Select and open “Local Security Policy”.

– In the left pane, navigate to “Security Settings> “Local Policies” > “Security Options“.

Step 2: Configure User Account Control Settings

– In the right pane, locate “User Account Control: Behavior of the elevation prompt for administrators in Admin Approval Mode”. Double-click on it.

– Set the dropdown menu to “Elevate without prompting”.

– Click on “OK” and close the Local Security Policy window.

Step 3: Create a Shortcut for the Program

– Navigate to the program file’s location (either through File Explorer or by searching for it).

– Right-click on the program executable (.exe) file and select “Create shortcut”.

– Place this new shortcut in an accessible location (e.g., Desktop).

Step 4: Enable Admin Rights for the Shortcut

– Right-click on the newly created shortcut and select “Properties”.

– In the Properties window, navigate to the “Shortcut” tab.

– Click on the “Advanced” button, located at the bottom-right corner of the window.

– Check the box labeled “Run as administrator” and click on “OK“.

– Click on “Apply“, then click on “OK” again in the Properties window.

Note: It is essential only to grant such privileges to programs that you know are safe and trustworthy. Granting admin rights can potentially expose your computer to security threats if applied to compromised or malicious programs. Also, be sure users have been informed of the change and understand their new responsibilities, as improper use of these privileges can lead to difficulties in managing your Windows environment.

Conclusion:

By following these steps, you can enable standard users to run a program with admin rights in Windows. This can be a useful tool when users need access to specific programs that require elevated permissions. However, exercise caution when granting these privileges and ensure that only reliable programs and responsible users are given such access. That way, you can balance both efficient work processes and system security.