Category: Blog Posts

There are few things more frustrating than your laptop’s wifi cutting out at the worst possible moment. You’re in the middle of a video call, streaming your favorite show, or finishing an important task, and suddenly, you’re disconnected. It feels personal, but it’s usually a technical glitch that can be fixed. Let’s walk through some of the most common reasons why this happens and what you can do about it.

Your Router Might Need a Quick Break

Often, the issue isn’t with your laptop at all, but with your router. These devices are designed to run constantly, but sometimes they can get overwhelmed. A simple power cycle can work wonders. Try unplugging your router from the power source, waiting for 30 seconds, and then plugging it back in. This clears its memory and allows it to re-establish a fresh connection with your devices, which often solves the problem.

Check Your Laptop’s Power Settings

To save battery life, your laptop might be a little too clever for its own good. Many power-saving modes include a feature that can temporarily disable your wifi adapter. You can check this by going into your Power Options in the Control Panel. Look for a setting related to Wireless Adapter Power Saving and set it to Maximum Performance when plugged in, and test if it helps when on battery. This tells your laptop to prioritize a stable connection over a few extra minutes of battery.

When a Driver Update Makes All the Difference

Think of drivers as the translators between your laptop’s hardware and its operating system. If your wireless network adapter driver is outdated or corrupted, the communication breaks down, leading to drops. Visiting your laptop manufacturer’s website or the component maker’s site (like Intel for many wifi cards) to find and install the latest driver for your specific model can be the key to a stable connection.

Is Your Signal Strong Enough?

Sometimes, the answer is as simple as distance or obstacles. Thick walls, large appliances, and even other electronics like cordless phones can interfere with your wifi signal. If you’re far from the router, the signal might be too weak to maintain a consistent link. Moving closer to the router or repositioning it to a more central location in your home can make a significant improvement.

By methodically checking these common areas, you’re very likely to find the culprit behind your spotty wifi. Start with the simple router restart and work your way through the list. With a little patience, you can get your laptop back to a reliable, steady connection.

That gentle glow from your ASUS laptop’s keyboard isn’t just for looks; it’s a game-changer for typing in dimly lit rooms or working late into the evening. But if you’re fumbling in the dark, trying to find the right key, you might be wondering how to activate this helpful feature. The good news is that it’s usually a very simple process, and you’ll likely have it illuminated in just a moment.

The Quickest Way to Turn On Your Keyboard Light

For the vast majority of ASUS laptops, the keyboard backlight is controlled by a specific function key. Look at the top row of your keyboard, specifically at the F3 and F4 keys. You should see little symbols on them that look like a keyboard with light rays coming from it. To turn the light on or adjust its brightness, you simply hold down the Fn key (usually located near the bottom-left corner of the keyboard) and tap either F4 (to increase brightness/turn on) or F3 (to decrease brightness/turn off). Tapping the F4 key multiple times will often cycle through brightness levels before turning the light off completely.

What to Do If the Function Keys Don’t Work

If pressing the Fn and F4 keys doesn’t bring your keyboard to light, don’t worry. The first thing to check is whether your specific ASUS model actually has a backlit keyboard. Some more budget-friendly models may not include this feature. If you’re sure it does, the solution might be a software one. Head to the official ASUS website and download the latest version of the ATK Package or Keyboard Hotkeys drivers for your specific laptop model. Installing these can often restore functionality to your special keys.

Adjusting Keyboard Light Settings in Armoury Crate

For many modern ASUS laptops, especially ROG or TUF Gaming models, keyboard lighting is managed through the Armoury Crate software. You can usually find this app in your Windows Start Menu. Once opened, look for a section labeled Device > Lighting or something similar. Within Armoury Crate, you gain much more control, allowing you to not only turn the light on but also choose from different colors and dynamic lighting effects if your laptop supports them.

With these tips, you should be able to easily find and activate your keyboard’s backlight. Whether you’re using the simple function keys or diving into the Armoury Crate software, that comfortable glow will make your late-night work or gaming sessions much easier on the eyes.

That old laptop gathering dust in your closet might feel like a relic, but it could be a small source of cash waiting to be claimed. Before you consider tossing it in the trash, it’s worth knowing that many components inside your computer still hold value. Finding the right place to sell can turn your electronic clutter into a little extra money in your pocket, all while making sure it doesn’t end up in a landfill.

Your First Stop for Quick Cash

For a fast and straightforward sale, online buyback websites are a fantastic option. Companies like Gazelle, BuyBackBoss, and Decluttr specialize in purchasing used electronics. The process is usually simple: you answer a few questions about your laptop’s model, condition, and specifications to get an instant quote. If you accept, they provide a free shipping label. Once they receive and verify your device, you get paid. It’s a very convenient way to handle everything from home.

Selling Directly to a New Owner

If you’re hoping to get the highest possible price, consider selling directly to another person. Platforms like eBay and Facebook Marketplace connect you with a huge pool of potential buyers. This method often yields a better return, especially for newer or well-maintained models. Be sure to take clear, well-lit photos and write a detailed, honest description of any wear and tear. Meeting in a safe, public place for the exchange is always a good idea for local sales.

Local Stores That Buy Used Tech

Don’t forget to check your local options. Many brick-and-mortar stores, including big-box retailers like Best Buy, often have trade-in programs. While the payout might be slightly lower than online options, the convenience can’t be beaten—you can sometimes walk out with cash or a store gift card on the same day. Additionally, local, independent computer repair shops are often interested in buying older laptops for parts or to refurbish and resell.

Preparing Your Laptop for Sale

Before you hand over your laptop, taking a few simple steps can help protect your privacy and might even increase its value. The most important task is to completely wipe your personal data. Simply deleting files isn’t enough. Perform a full factory reset to erase your hard drive. Giving the exterior a gentle cleaning to remove dust and smudges can also make a much better impression on potential buyers.

With these options available, turning your old laptop into cash is a very achievable goal. Whether you choose the speed of an online service or the higher potential payout of a direct sale, you’re giving your old tech a new purpose and putting some money back in your wallet.

Have you ever found yourself wishing for just a little more screen space? Maybe you’re working on a complex project and need to spread out your windows, or perhaps your main laptop screen has called it quits unexpectedly. In these situations, you might look over at a spare laptop and wonder if you can use it as a second monitor. The good news is, you often can.

While you can’t just plug a cable from one laptop to another as you would with a dedicated monitor, there are several clever software-based methods to extend your digital workspace. It’s a fantastic way to boost your productivity without spending any extra money on new hardware.

Using Built-in Features in Windows

If both of your laptops are running Windows 10 or 11, you have a powerful tool already built-in. The Projection feature allows you to extend your display wirelessly. First, on the laptop you want to use as the second screen, go to Settings > System > Projecting to this PC. Set it to “Available everywhere” or “Always on” for the best results. Then, on your main laptop, press the Windows key + P and select “Connect to a wireless display.” Your secondary laptop should appear in the list. This method creates a seamless extended desktop experience.

Exploring Third-Party Software Solutions

For those with different operating systems or who need more features, third-party applications are a great alternative. Programs like Spacedesk and Parsec are popular choices. These applications work by installing a “server” component on the laptop that will act as the monitor and a “client” on your main machine. They often provide low latency and can even work over a network, giving you a lot of flexibility. Many offer free versions that are perfectly adequate for basic screen extension.

Getting the Best Performance

To ensure a smooth experience, a strong connection is key. For the best results, connect both laptops to the same Wi-Fi network. An even better setup is to use an Ethernet cable to connect both devices to your router, which minimizes lag. If you’re using a software solution, closing unnecessary applications on both machines can also free up resources and make the screen sharing more responsive.

Using another laptop as a monitor is a clever trick that can save the day. Whether you use the built-in Windows settings or a dedicated app, you can easily double your screen real estate and create a more efficient workflow. Give it a try and see how much more you can get done.

You’re standing in front of your suitcase, laptop in hand, wondering what to do. It’s a common travel dilemma. With precious work data, family photos, and your favorite shows stored on it, the last thing you want is for it to get damaged or lost. The simple answer is that, yes, you technically can pack a laptop in your checked luggage. However, most frequent travelers and experts strongly advise against it.

The risks often outweigh the convenience. Let’s look at why stowing your computer in the hold is generally not the best idea and what you can do instead to keep your device safe.

Why Your Laptop Belongs in Your Carry-On

The main reasons to keep your laptop with you are security and safety. Checked bags are handled by machinery and can be jostled, stacked under heavy items, or even thrown during loading. This rough treatment can easily lead to a cracked screen or damaged internal components. Furthermore, checked luggage is more susceptible to theft. While not common, items can go missing. Your laptop is a high-value target, and having it in your sight is the best way to ensure it stays with you.

Airline Policies and Lithium Batteries

There’s also an important official rule to consider. Most airlines, following international safety regulations, require devices with lithium-ion batteries to be carried in the cabin. This is because these batteries can pose a fire risk if they are damaged or short-circuit. In the cabin, if a problem occurs, it can be addressed immediately. In the cargo hold, a fire is much more dangerous and difficult to contain. While you can sometimes get away with packing a laptop, you are technically going against the recommended safety guidelines.

Smart Packing for Your Carry-On

Since your laptop should be with you, packing it smartly is key. Use a well-padded sleeve or a dedicated compartment in your backpack or carry-on bag. When going through security, you’ll need to take it out of its case and place it in a separate bin. To make this process smoother, consider using a TSA-friendly laptop bag with a separate compartment that lays flat, so you don’t have to remove the computer entirely. Always ensure your device is powered down or in sleep mode to speed up the screening.

While the rules allow for laptops in checked bags on most airlines, it’s a risk not worth taking. For the safety of your device, your data, and in line with airline safety recommendations, your laptop belongs right by your side in the cabin. A little extra planning ensures your digital companion arrives safely at your destination with you.

It can be a frustrating moment when you go to type on your HP laptop and find the keyboard isn’t responding. Before you worry about a hardware failure, it’s helpful to know that laptop keyboards can sometimes be temporarily disabled by a simple keystroke or software setting. Often, the solution is a quick and easy fix that gets you back to typing in no time.

Check for a Function Lock Key

One of the most common reasons for a non-responsive keyboard is the accidental activation of the Function Lock. Look at the top row of your keyboard for a key labeled Fn (Function) and another key with a lock symbol, often F12, F10, or Esc. This key may have a small light on it. Press the Fn key and the lock key simultaneously to see if this restores functionality. This key combination acts as a toggle switch for the keyboard.

Restart Your Laptop

If the function lock isn’t the issue, a simple restart can work wonders. A restart clears temporary software glitches that might be causing the problem. Save any open work and select Restart from the Windows power menu. This gives your system a fresh start and often resolves the keyboard issue without any further steps.

Update Your Keyboard Driver

Outdated or corrupted device drivers can also lead to keyboard problems. To check for updates, right-click the Start button and select Device Manager. Expand the Keyboards section, right-click on your keyboard driver, and select Update driver. Follow the on-screen prompts to search automatically for updated driver software. Windows will install the best available driver for your device.

Run the Hardware Troubleshooter

Windows includes built-in tools designed to find and fix hardware problems. Go to your Settings, then select Update & Security and navigate to the Troubleshoot section. Find and run the Keyboard troubleshooter. This automated tool can often detect and correct the underlying issue causing your keyboard to be unresponsive.

With a bit of patience, one of these straightforward methods will usually get your HP laptop keyboard working again. Starting with the simple function lock check and moving to a restart covers the majority of cases, allowing you to resume your work smoothly.

There are few things more frustrating than settling in to work or browse, only to find your laptop stubbornly refusing to connect to the internet. That little globe icon with a caution sign can feel like a personal insult. Before you let the panic set in, take a deep breath. This is a common issue, and it’s almost always something you can fix yourself with a few simple checks.

First Steps: The Quick and Easy Fixes

Let’s start with the simplest solutions that often do the trick. First, check if your laptop’s Wi-Fi is even turned on. Many laptops have a physical switch or a function key (like F2 or F12) with a wireless symbol on it. Give it a press. Next, try the classic turn-it-off-and-on-again method. Restarting your laptop and your router can clear out temporary glitches. Unplug your router, wait 30 seconds, plug it back in, and wait for all the lights to stabilize.

When Your Wi-Fi Connection Acts Up

If a restart didn’t help, the problem might be with the connection itself. Your laptop might be connected to the wrong network or have an old, saved password. Open your network settings and “forget” your home network, then reconnect by entering the password again. It’s also worth checking if other devices in your home can get online. If they can’t, the issue is definitely with your router or internet service provider.

Letting Windows Troubleshoot for You

Your laptop has a built-in mechanic that can often identify and repair problems automatically. In your network settings, look for an option labeled “Network Troubleshooter” or “Internet Connections Troubleshooter.” Run it and follow the prompts. It can frequently resolve issues like outdated drivers or incorrect settings without you having to lift a finger.

A Closer Look at Network Drivers

Think of drivers as the translators that help your laptop’s hardware talk to its software. If your Wi-Fi driver is outdated or corrupted, your internet will stop working. You can check for driver updates through your Device Manager. Look for “Network adapters,” right-click on your wireless device, and select “Update driver.” If an update is available, this can be the magic bullet that solves your problem.

While a lost internet connection can disrupt your day, it’s rarely a permanent problem. By working through these steps methodically—from the simple restarts to checking your drivers—you’ll likely have your laptop back online and ready to go in no time.

If you’re wondering whether you can join the battle on a laptop, the short answer is a resounding yes. Fortnite is absolutely playable on a wide range of laptops, from powerful gaming machines to more modest, everyday notebooks. The experience will vary depending on your specific hardware, but Epic Games has done a great job of making the game accessible to a huge audience.

You don’t necessarily need the most expensive rig to land on the island. Many modern laptops with integrated graphics can run the game, though you’ll likely need to adjust some settings for smoother gameplay. Let’s look at what your laptop needs to get you into the action.

What Your Laptop Needs to Run Fortnite

Fortnite has a set of minimum and recommended system requirements. For a basic, playable experience, your laptop should at least have an Intel HD 4000 graphics card (or equivalent), a Core i3 processor, and 4GB of RAM. This will let you run the game on lower settings. For a much smoother and visually appealing experience, aim for the recommended specs: a dedicated graphics card like a GTX 960 or better, a Core i5 processor, and 8GB of RAM.

Getting the Best Performance on Your Laptop

Even if your laptop isn’t a top-tier gaming model, you can often improve performance with a few tweaks. The most effective step is to lower the in-game video settings. Try setting the view distance to “Far” but lowering textures and effects to “Medium” or “Low.” Most importantly, switch your display mode to “Performance” in the Advanced Graphics section. This mode is designed specifically to boost frame rates on less powerful hardware.

Is a Gaming Laptop Worth It for Fortnite?

If you’re serious about playing Fortnite competitively or just want the best visual experience, a laptop with a dedicated graphics card is a significant upgrade. You’ll enjoy higher frame rates, which can make gameplay feel more responsive, and you can turn up the visual settings for a more immersive world. For casual play, however, many standard laptops are perfectly capable.

So, can you play Fortnite on a laptop? Absolutely. Whether you’re on a budget-friendly machine or a high-end gaming laptop, you can jump from the Battle Bus and into a match. With a little adjustment to your settings, you can find the perfect balance between performance and visuals for your specific device.

If your laptop is struggling with the latest games or taking forever to render a video, you might be wondering if you can simply swap out the graphics card for a more powerful one. It’s a logical question, especially if you’re familiar with building desktop computers, where upgrading a GPU is a common and straightforward task. The answer for laptops, however, is a bit more complicated and often depends on the specific model you own.

The Hard Truth About Most Laptops

For the vast majority of laptops on the market, the graphics processing unit (GPU) is permanently soldered directly onto the motherboard. This means the GPU is not a separate, removable component like it is in a desktop computer. Manufacturers design laptops this way to save space, reduce power consumption, and create thinner, lighter devices. In these cases, replacing the GPU is not just difficult; it’s practically impossible without replacing the entire motherboard, which is a very costly procedure.

A Glimmer of Hope with MXM Graphics Cards

There is one notable exception to this rule. Some high-end gaming laptops or mobile workstations use a standard called MXM (Mobile PCI Express Module). These laptops have a graphics card that is a separate, removable module, similar in concept to a desktop card but in a different form factor. If your laptop uses an MXM GPU, then a replacement is technically possible. However, finding a compatible MXM card is challenging, they are often very expensive, and you would need to ensure your laptop’s cooling system and power supply can handle the new card.

What Are Your Realistic Options?

Since a physical GPU upgrade is off the table for most people, it’s helpful to look at the alternatives. One powerful option is to use an external GPU (eGPU). If your laptop has a Thunderbolt 3 or 4 port, you can connect an external enclosure that houses a full-sized desktop graphics card. This gives you desktop-level graphics power when you’re at your desk, though it’s not a portable solution. For less drastic measures, you can ensure your laptop’s internal cooling system is clean and free of dust, as overheating can cause GPU performance to drop. Keeping your graphics drivers updated can also provide performance improvements and bug fixes.

While the dream of easily swapping a laptop’s GPU is, for now, mostly reserved for a small niche of specialized machines, understanding the landscape helps you make informed decisions. Knowing the limitations allows you to better care for your current laptop and choose a model with future-proof graphics when it’s time for your next purchase.

You’re ready to step away from your Dell laptop for a bit, but you want to pick up right where you left off without shutting it down completely. Putting it to sleep is the perfect solution, but now you’re looking at the keyboard and wondering, where exactly is that sleep button? If you can’t find a dedicated key, you’re not alone. Most Dell laptops don’t have a specific “sleep” button, but don’t worry—it’s actually very easy to do.

The Easiest Way to Put Your Laptop to Sleep

The quickest method is often right on your keyboard. Look for a key that has a symbol resembling a crescent moon or a “Zz” on it. This is usually a secondary function on the F2 or Insert key. To use it, you’ll need to hold down the Fn (Function) key in the bottom-left corner of your keyboard and then press the corresponding key with the moon symbol. This will instantly send your laptop into a low-power sleep state.

Using the Start Menu for a Guaranteed Option

If your keyboard doesn’t have that symbol or you just prefer using the mouse, the Windows Start Menu is your best friend. Simply click the Start button in the bottom-left corner of your screen. Next, click on the power icon, which looks like a circle with a vertical line. This will open a menu where you can select “Sleep” from the list of options. This method works on every Dell laptop running Windows.

Closing the Lid for Instant Sleep

For the ultimate in convenience, you can set your laptop to go to sleep automatically when you close the lid. To set this up, type “lid” into the Windows search bar and select “Change what closing the lid does.” You can then choose “Sleep” for both the “On battery” and “Plugged in” settings. Once configured, simply closing your laptop’s lid will put it to sleep, and opening it will wake it right back up.

While there isn’t a single, universal sleep button on every Dell laptop, you have several reliable and simple methods at your fingertips. Whether you use the keyboard shortcut, the Start Menu, or just close the lid, you can quickly put your laptop to rest and resume your work in seconds.