Safe mode starts Windows in a basic state, using a limited set of files and drivers. If a problem doesn't happen in safe mode, this means that default settings and basic device drivers aren't causing the issue.

This article applies if you’ve recently made changes to your device hardware and are trying to upgrade to Windows 11. Hardware changes might affect your upgrade eligibility, though you’ll need to take a few steps to see your updated eligibility in Settings.

If you’re having sound or audio problems, the following suggestions might help. The tips are listed in order, so start with the first one, see if that helps, and then continue to the next one if it doesn’t.

Manage your Xbox subscription Game Pass Ultimate or a supported free to play game is required for cloud gaming. See what else you can do to get the most out of your subscription.

To check activation status in Windows 11, select the Start button, and then select Settings > System and then select Activation .. Your activation status will be listed next to Activation.. Check activation status in Settings. You'll see one of these activation status messages on the Activation page:

If you are having issues installing or updating Gaming Services on your PC, or if you are noticing that the Xbox app for PC is launching with missing content, you may want to download and run the Gaming Services Repair Tool for PC.

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To pin Quick Assist to your taskbar so you can quickly get back to it, after Quick Assist is open, right-click (or press and hold) the icon on your taskbar > Pin to taskbar. If the old app icon still appears on your device, make sure you select the new app icon.

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Safe mode starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and services to help troubleshoot issues. If a problem doesn't reappear when you start your PC in safe mode, you can eliminate the default settings and basic device drivers and services as possible causes.