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Colin says all his Gmail contacts disappeared
Dear Darcy and T.C. I have had this happen a few times but managed to resurrect the details the hard way. I am referring to disappearing contacts in Gmail. Today just reminded me of the problem when I went to contact an old friend and lo and behold, found nothing... I looked for another and got the same result.

I had a look on my Android phone and needless to say, got the same thing. Is there a way I can get those contacts back?

Love your work and effort for those of us who are slowing down in this hurry-up world. There's an old saying I remember from a long time back and it goes something like this. "The hurrier I go, the behinder I get" and it certainly applies to me. Regards, Colin.

Our answer
Hi Colin. Thanks for your nice comments.

You can try this trick to restore contacts that have been deleted within the last 30 days from your Gmail account on your Windows computer.

Login to Gmail

Click on the 9-dot-square icon near the top-left

Click on "Contacts" in the Apps menu...

In Contacts, click on the gear icon and select "Undo changes".

You can only restore back 30 days... you'll have to type 30 in the "Days" field near the bottom. And then click "Undo".

In Contacts, click on the gear icon and select "Undo changes".

You can only restore back 30 days... you'll have to type 30 in the "Days" field near the bottom. And then click "Undo".

This will restore any contacts deleted within the last 30 days. It will also delete any contacts added during the last 30 days. If you've added contacts in the last 30 days, it would be a good idea to export your contacts to a CSV file before proceeding.

For Android phones see this Google support page. We hope this helps you, Colin. 

Gordon is looking for a password manager that is not "cloud-based"
Hello TC, I don't recall reading in Cloudeight recently, any recommendations for a good, free, password manager that might not be a "cloud" based app. I have been using an app that is a stand-alone program that needs to be modernized and as always, your recommendations carry a lot of weight with me. Thank you for being there for so many of us.

Our answer
Hi Gordon. Thanks so much!

All password managers I've tested are all cloud-based as well as locally-based. The internet and the world have changed over the last 30 years. Most people now have multiple devices connected to the internet and password managers can be used on those connected devices (PCs, tablets, and smartphones).

We have tested:

RoboForm
LastPass
Bitwarden
Dashlane
1Password

Darcy uses RoboForm and I use Bitwarden and LastPass. There are many others we have not tested. One that we have not tested that stores all passwords locally is called KeePass. You can read more about KeePass here.

Keep in mind most password managers store data locally and in the cloud. Everything is encrypted and can only be unlocked by your master password. If your master password is strong then your credentials in the cloud are protected even if a hacker somehow hacked into the database.

We hope this helps you, Gordon.

Cheryl is getting a new computer and has some questions
I am getting a new gaming computer (it will arrive around Dec. 14th). It does not have a CD/DVD drive. It has Windows 11 already installed on it. I want to make a "recovery" disk (or whatever it's called) before installing any programs on the gaming computer. I was not able to locate the instructions on how to do that for Windows 11 on the Cloudeight Info Ave page. Will you please send the instructions?

It will not have an anti-virus program and Ms. Darcy has already emailed the instructions for me on how to add it to my existing Emsisoft license. :-) (Thank you again Ms. Darcy).

I've printed off the instructions given in InfoAve Weekly Issue #945 on how to make Google Chrome my default browser in Windows 11, However, once I install Chrome, will I be able to access my bookmarks on the gaming computer?

Also, will I be able to install LastPass (Free edition) on my gaming computer, even though I have it installed on my regular desktop? AND, if so, will I be able to access all my saved information?

As always, feel free to share with others. Thank you both for EVERYTHING!

Our answer
Hi Cheryl. Thanks for your question about creating installation media. Because your question reminded me to create a tutorial. Our new tutorial covers upgrading to Windows 11 using the Windows 11 Installation Assistant as well as how to create a Windows 11 installation USB or DVD. Here is a link to that tutorial.

Windows 11 Installation Assistant and Windows Media Creation Tool

Unless you use Google Sync, you'll have to export your bookmarks from Chrome on the other computer and import them into Chrome on the new computer. To export/import your Chrome bookmarks, see our tutorial here.

LastPass (free version) allows you to use it on like-devices (i.e. Windows PCs). But you cannot use the free version on unlike devices (Android phones, Apple iPad, Windows PCs, etc.) If you log in to LastPass with the same user account (email address) and password...your passwords will automatically appear on all devices you have LastPass installed on. The key is to use the same LastPass account on both computers.

We hope this answers your questions, Cheryl.

Susan does not like how Windows 11 stacks taskbar icons and wants to change it
Hi. Since updating to Windows 11 (with no problems), I have not found a way to not have all my open windows displayed on the taskbar. I often have multiple word documents and browser windows open at the same time. With previous versions of Windows, I was able to have them all open and show in my taskbar, but with Windows 11, all open documents or browsers stack and do not show individually in thw taskbar. Do you know a workaround for this? Thanks for all of your helpful tips over the years!

Our answer
Hi Susan. Windows 11 combines taskbar icons, so, for example, if you have 4 MS Word documents open they'll be combined into one MS Word icon. Another example If you have 5 Chrome tabs open they'll all be combined into one taskbar icon. This (as of now) cannot be changed. It's called icon-grouping. Windows 11 no longer has the 'Never Combine' option that was available in previous versions of Windows. This feature was removed in Windows 11, in keeping with its new minimalistic look which is enhanced by icon grouping.

Keep in mind that Microsoft often changes its collective mind on things so this could change as the weeks and months roll by.

We hope this helps you, Susan.
------
Susan wrote back: "Thank you so much for your prompt response. I just wanted to make sure I wasn't missing something. Happy holidays! Susan."

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Ruth wants to know if we recommend CCleaner
Just wondering if you recommend CCleaner? Thanks, Ruth.

Our answer
Hi Ruth. We have never recommended CCleaner. And especially not now since it's owned by Avast/AVG.

Windows 10 and 11 come with Storage Sense which works well and is automatic once you set it up. To learn more about Storage Sense see our tutorial here.

If you're looking for a freeware program, CleanMgr+ is easy to use and does a good job. See this page.

We hope this helps you, Ruth.

Dennis forgot the password for his wife's computer.
I am trying to log in on my wife's laptop and have forgotten the email account and password for the Microsoft login. Is there a way to recover this information for windows 10

Our answer
Hi Dennis. If your wife is using a Microsoft account the computer (Windows) password is the same as the account email address password. If you can't find the email password you can reset it here.

If she's not using a Microsoft account and using a local account (a non-Microsoft account) you can try to reset the password by following the instructions here.

We hope this helps you, Dennis.

Greg wants us to clarify Microsoft's convoluted statement
Hiya TC and EB. Was just reading an article by PC World and in it, they quoted Microsoft with this..."Microsoft also said that it's moving to an annual cadence of providing updates, meaning that you won't have to worry about another major feature update until the second half of 2022. We will continue to support at least one version of Windows 10 through Oct. 14, 2025, Microsoft said in a blog post, reiterating its previous guidance."

I find it very interesting that they say will continue to support at least one version of windows 10.... does that mean they are not going to support all versions? Take care and be safe always, Greg.

Our answer
Hi Greg. In its own convoluted way, Microsoft is saying it will only have one feature update starting next year - instead of supporting two versions.

As it is right now, Microsoft supports at least 2 versions of Windows 10 because it releases 2 versions every year. It will support each version for 18 months. So, logically, if they release only one version update each year, it will support that one version for 18 months. As the calendar nears October 14, 2025, I'm guessing that the last version update will happen sometime during the spring of 2024 and it will be the last version of Windows 10 - which will be supported until October 14, 2025. For now, they'll be supporting 2 versions until Windows 10 version 21H1 reaches its end-of-service date on December 13, 2022.

Summing it up...Windows 10 version 20H2 will reach the end of its support life on May 10, 2022, and Windows 10 version 21H2 on December 13, 2022. Beginning this month, Windows will only release one new version of Windows 10 per year as opposed to two as they have done since Windows 10 was released in July 2015. After December 13, 2022, when Windows 10 version 21H2 reaches the end of its support life, Microsoft will only be supporting one version of Windows 10. Each annual new version will be supported for 18 months. So that means that most of the time two versions will still be supported - until October 14, 2025, when Windows 10 reaches the end of its support lifecycle.

I hope this helps clear this up and not make them more confusing:)

Lee asks about RoboForm
Dear TC and Darcy. For once I don't have a problem, just a query for the future! I use RoboForm and have done so for years. If and when I have to change my computer between now and 2025, is there an easy way to save all my passwords for when I reinstall RoboForm onto the new computer? I am using the free version. Thanks for all your past help and in the future. Best regards, Lee.

Our answer
Hi Lee. I (Darcy) use RoboForm and have for years. I use the "RoboForm everywhere" account so I can access it on my phone, on the web, and on both of my Windows computers. I'm not 100% certain that you have all the same options with the freeware version of RoboForm, but I'm betting you do.

Try this: From the RoboForm icon in the taskbar, right-click and choose Options. When the window opens, choose "Account and Data" from the menu list on the left

When that opens you will see an "export" option. Export your data and be sure to save it in a safe place (USB flash drive, external drive, etc.). I use Microsoft OneDrive so that when I am on another computer, I have access if needed.

Now, if you change computers or need the data, do the same thing above, and but this time choose "Import". Then browse to the location where you saved the exported file. Or, right-click on the RoboForm icon in the taskbar and choose Tools, Import.

Hope this helps and thanks for being with us, Lee.

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Here are 5 Windows tips we use almost every day
Windows 10 and Windows 11

1: Bring up the Lock Screen in Windows 10 and Windows 11

If you press the Windows Key + L, it will bring up the lock screen in Windows 10. If you use a password Windows Key + L will “lock” your Windows 10  or Windows 11 PC until you enter your password or PIN.

2: Make any word or phrase a hyperlink

If you want to make a link out of a word or a phrase, like “Visit our InfoAve Website“, it’s super easy to do. Select the word or words you want to make into a hyperlink and press CTRL+K. A dialog will appear. In the dialog type or paste the URL (web site address) and press Enter. If you did that correctly, the word or words you highlighted are now a clickable hyperlink. This tip works with most word processors and email programs. It also works in Gmail. Try it!

3: Open a new instance of a program with a click of your mouse

Did you know on most computer mice, you can click the scroll wheel? You can and we call the “middle mouse button”. If you middle-click on the taskbar of an open program, it will open a new instance of that program. Try it. It works with Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Notepad, File Explorer, and many other programs. It will work with any program that allows multiple instances to run.

4: Open Task Manager with a keyboard shortcut

Just press CTRL+SHIFT+ESC to open Task Manager.

5: Hide all open windows in a hurry

If you want to clear all open windows from your screen quickly, press the Windows Key and the M key; to reopen them again, press Windows Key+SHIFT+ M.

Windows 11 Installation Assistant and Windows Media Creation Tool
Windows 10 and Windows 11

How to upgrade to Windows 11 using the Installation Assistant  and/or how to create a Windows 11 installation USB or DVD

On Microsoft’s Windows 11 download page you’ll find two options. The first option is for those who want to upgrade to Windows 11 or reinstall Windows 11. 

The second option is for those who want to create a Windows 11 installation USB or DVD. 

How to upgrade your computer to Windows 11 using the Windows 11 Installation Assistant

If you use the first option (the Windows 11 Installation Assistant) to upgrade your current Windows 10 PC to Windows 11, make sure your computer meets the requirements to run Windows 11.  

Microsoft says to make sure your computer:

• Has a 64-bit CPU: Windows 11 can only run on 64-bit CPUs. To see if your PC has one, go to Settings > System > About, or search “System Information” in Windows and look under “System Type.”
  • Windows 11 Media Creation Tool creates installation media only for x64 processors. For ARM-based PCs, you should wait until you are notified through Windows Update that the upgrade is ready for your PC.
• Meets system requirements: Not all devices running Windows 10 are eligible to receive a Windows 11 upgrade. See the Windows 11 device specifications for upgrade requirements and supported features. Certain features require additional hardware. We also recommend that you visit your PC’s manufacturer’s website for information about updated drivers and hardware compatibility.
  • WARNING: Installing Windows 11 media on a PC that does not meet the Windows 11 minimum system requirements is not recommended and may result in incompatibility issues. If you proceed with installing Windows 11 on a PC that does not meet the requirements, that PC will no longer be supported and won’t be entitled to receive updates. Damages to the PC due to lack of compatibility aren’t covered under the manufacturer’s warranty.

How to create a Windows 11 Installation USB or DVD

You can create a Windows 11 installation USB or DVD by following the instructions on this page.

Using the Media Creation Tool to create Windows 11 installation media:

Microsoft advises you to make sure you have:

• An internet connection (internet service provider fees may apply).
• Sufficient data storage available on the computer, USB, or external drive you are downloading the .iso file to.
• A blank DVD disc with at least 8GB (and DVD burner) to create a bootable disc. We recommend using a blank USB or blank DVD, because any content on it will be deleted during installation.
• If you receive a “disc image file is too large” message while attempting to burn a DVD bootable disc from an ISO file, consider using a higher capacity Dual Layer DVD.

If you have all of the above ready, then download the Media Creation Tool (option number 2)…

• After downloading, run the media creation tool. You need to be an administrator to run this tool. If you agree to the license terms, select Accept.
• On the ”What do you want to do?” page, select “Create installation media for another PC”, and then select Next.
• Select the language, edition, and architecture (64-bit) for Windows 11.
• Select which media you want to use:
• USB flash drive: Attach a blank USB flash drive with at least 8GB of space. Any content on the flash drive will be deleted.
• ISO file: Save an ISO file to your PC. This can be used to create a bootable DVD. After the file is downloaded, you can go to the location where the file is saved, or select Open DVD burner, and follow the instructions to burn the file to a DVD.

For the download links and more information about using the Installation assistant to upgrade your Windows 10 computer to Windows 11 and/or to create a Windows 11 installation USB or DVD, see this Microsoft page.

How to Find Your Wireless Network Password
Windows 10 and Windows 11

Everyone should be using a WiFi password for their home network. And most of us do. And most of us let Windows remember that password for us, so we don’t have to type it in whenever we boot up and connect. But sometimes, for instance, when setting up another computer, a tablet, or a smartphone, you may need to know the network password. And if you don’t remember what it was, you’ll be fumbling around trying to get those other devices connected.

Thankfully, it is really easy to find your network password. All you need to do is enter in a simple command and in just a minute or two you’ll know what your network password is.

Here’s how you do it:

Step one: Type CMD in the taskbar search. When Command Prompt appears, click on Run as administrator.

Step two: Enter the following command, at the prompt in the Command Prompt windows. Substitute your WiFi network name for my network name OMAHA. Don’t worry: network names are not case sensitive in Windows.

Above: My network password showing in plain text.  It's next to "Key Content". No! You can’t see it! I blurred it! I don't want EB using my Wi-Fi. Are you crazy?

If you don’t know the name of your network, you can find it in the Network & Sharing Center. You can find Network & Sharing Center in the Control Panel or Settings > Network & Internet > Network and Sharing Center. You can open the Control Panel in Windows 10 and Windows 11 by typing CONTROL in taskbar search. 

Want more tips, tricks, and information?

We have thousands of Windows tips, tricks, and more on our InfoAve website.

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Now available: Reg Organizer 8.80

If you purchased or renewed Reg Organizer through Cloudeight within the last 12 months, you're entitled to a free version upgrade to Reg Organizer 8.76.

Save $14 on Reg Organizer right now!

 Make Your Own Christmas Cards

Then print or send your cards by email

Yesterday, we spend quite a bit of time looking for a free site where we could create Christmas cards to download and print. We looked for a site that allows users to upload pictures and use them in their Christmas cards. We also wanted a site that gave users a large selection of Christmas card templates to help great them started. After being disappointed many times by sites claiming to be free, then wanting to charge users for the good stuff, we found Greetings Island.

Not only did Greetings Island offer everything we were looking for – they also allow users to send eCards by email. And they’re even animated. They offer all kinds of cards, birthday cards, Valentine’s cards, friendship cards, sympathy cards, and more. But Christmas season is here (almost), so we’re focusing on Greetings Island’s Christmas cards

First, you’ll notice that you’ll have the option of choosing to create a folded card – like you would buy in a store or a flat card you can download as an image. Unless you have a reason not to, we suggest you choose “Folded”. Not only can you download and print your card, but you can also send it as an eCard. And the eCards are very nice — as we’ll soon show you.

Greetings Island has a nice selection of templates to choose from – making it easy to get your Christmas card project started.

We’ll tell you this, to use Greetings Island, you have to create a free account. You provide a name and email address and that’s it. We created an account, then dug right in creating a quick Christmas card.

We picked the cute snowman template.

Then I added some text – in our case I wrote a little poem. You can write anything you want, choose different fonts, font sizes, and colors – and even add your own images.

If you like you can even add your own creative touches to the back of the card. See?

And the templates offer many customizable options, for example…

When you’re all done creating your masterpiece, you can download it and print it. Or you can choose to send it by email as an eCard… and not just any old eCard — but one with cute animation as well.

We sent you all an animated card – you can see it here. Just click the card to open it, click again to see the back of it, click again to go back to the beginning.

If you want to have some Christmas fun and you’re feeling creative, visit our Cloudeight site pick “Greetings Island” right now. 

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The History of Christmas Tree – The Real Story

After doing some research, it’s obvious to me that, to this point, no one really knew how this whole Christmas tree thing got started. It’s not like someone picked up a pen and kept notes. But I did some digging, and I can now tell you the real story of Christmas trees.

Back in the pagan days, before the birth of Christ, people would get crazy on the first day of winter and start jumping around and hooting and snorting and drinking barrels of rotten corn cob juice, which contained, among other contaminants, alcohol. These pre-Christian hooligans would get drunk, smoke rope, and jump around naked and intoxicated.

In other words, they had a party.

Like some people in our modern society, they needed an excuse to drink, act insanely, canoodle, and carouse. They picked the shortest day of the year, also known as the winter solstice.

I would like to note here that we modern folks...

We hope you'll read the rest of this essay here.

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OE Classic Email program. The email program that is most like Outlook Express. We can even set it up for you. Get more details here.

Reg Organizer: Reg Organizer is the Swiss Army Knife of Windows tools. It's far more than just a registry optimizer and cleaner... it's a Windows all-in-one toolkit. Reg Organizer helps you keep your computer in tip-top shape and helps you solve annoying Windows problems. Reg Organizer works great with Windows 10! Get more information about Reg Organizer (and get our special discount prices) here.

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