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Coolest Custom PC Builds From Computex 2025
Computex 2025 put custom PC builds in the spotlight, with modders transforming hardware into works of art, from a pygmy hippo–inspired case to a bow-and-arrow rig and a fully functional drink dispenser. These ten standout creations demonstrate how imagination and engineering can merge to create functional machines that are as visually striking as they are powerful.
1. Moo Deng by Suchao Prowphong
Modder Suchao Prowphong from Thailand transformed a Thermaltake TR100 Hydrangea Blue mini-tower into a three-dimensional tribute to Moo Deng, the Bangkok Zoo’s beloved pygmy hippo. The front panel’s layered steel and acrylic forms recreate the hippo’s snout, while two welded pink metal discs serve as rosy cheeks. I didn’t catch any details about the internal components, but sometimes a build’s personality matters more than its specs. Its whimsical charm earned it a spot on our list, proving that cuteness can be just as captivating as complexity.
2. Gallardo Custom PC Case by Manli
In a bold partnership with Lamborghini’s Gallardo division, Manli unveiled a build drenched in signature orange, its circular chassis split by a brushed-metal spine that doubles as a GPU mount. The “moon-and-metal” aesthetic isn’t just for show, the rig packs a Manli GeForce RTX 5090 Gallardo edition, an AMD 9800X3D processor, 32 GB of DDR5-8000 memory (2×16 GB), an x870 ITX motherboard, a 2 TB PCIe 4.0 SSD and a 1 000 W SFX-L power supply. Between its eye-catching silhouette and serious hardware, this collaboration hits the sweet spot between automotive flair and desktop performance.
3. Afternoon Tea by TechLinMod
The build’s delicate pastel palette and café-inspired details give it an unmistakably feminine charm. Modder TechLinMod transformed a Hyte Y70 Pink chassis into a miniature tea shop, complete with a porcelain-style teapot “pouring” resin tea into a matching cup atop the case. Inside, an AMD Ryzen 7 7700X on an ASUS ROG Strix X870 motherboard is tamed by a custom Bitspower water-cooling loop. A Palit GeForce RTX 4070 Ti Gaming Pro White OC handles graphics, backed by 64 GB of G.Skill Trident Z5 Royal DDR5-6400 (4×16 GB), a 2 TB PCIe 4.0 SSD and an 850 W Seasonic Focus GX White PSU. The result is a cutesy yet powerful build that blends café-style whimsy with serious performance.
4. RoboBox 07 by Alseye
Of the three showpieces Alseye unveiled, the RoboBox 07 stood out to me most. It blends the sleek minimalism of EVE from WALL·E with the utilitarian grit of the Interstellar robots. The tiny astronaut figurine perched atop its “head” adds a playful flourish. Although no component list was available, the build’s futuristic silhouette and clean lines made it a standout on the Computex floor, proof that compelling aesthetics can captivate even without a spec sheet.
5. Luminarch by AK Mod
AK Mod, in collaboration with Klevv, delivered a standout build with Luminarch, a PC sculpted into the form of a drawn bow and arrow. The curved “bow” chassis was CNC-machined to bear its own weight, while 3D-printed outer panels conceal the support structure and lend the build a sense of graceful suspension. Klevv Urbane V RGB modules double as stylized arrow fletching, and the GPU tucks neatly along the central riser that serves as the “arrow” shaft. Under the hood, it houses an Intel Core Ultra 9 285K, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 Founders Edition, 16 GB of DDR5-6000 RAM, an ROG Strix Z890-I motherboard, Thermaltake Swafan EX ARGB fans, a Bitspower custom water-cooling loop and a 1 000 W ROG Loki SFX-L PSU. Two months of design followed by a month of meticulous assembly resulted in a build that marries medieval inspiration with cutting-edge performance.
6. Egg Shaped Super Hero Robot by Apacer
Apacer’s showstopper took the form of a glossy, egg-shaped chassis complete with tiny arms, legs and two glowing green “eyes,” all mounted on a slender support rod to give the illusion of flight, serious Astro Boy vibes. I didn’t catch any specs, but its impeccable finish and clever presentation made it one of Computex’s most delightfully whimsical custom builds.
7. Japanese Straw House by Toru Sekiguchi
This build’s cultural homage is impossible to miss. Toru Sekiguchi, from Japan, wrapped a Tower 600 Matcha Green mid-tower chassis in a miniature traditional Japanese straw house, complete with a thatched roof, carefully placed white garden stones, delicate faux cherry blossoms and a handful of playful toy cats perched among the eaves. I didn’t catch any internal specs, but the way it marries functional hardware with authentic vernacular architecture makes it a standout: equal parts craftsmanship and cultural storytelling.
8. Black Myth: WuKong’s Bull King Armor Set by Narinsorn Rattanabuppha
As a huge fan of Black Myth: Wukong, I was blown away by Narinsorn Rattanabuppha’s homage to the Bull King Armor set. Built on a Tower 600 mid-tower chassis, the case is sculpted to echo the armor’s ornate plating, topped with the Bull King’s fearsome mask and Wukong’s iconic Jing Gu Bang. A miniature figurine of The Destined One stands guard beside it, adding a perfect narrative touch. Inside, an ASRock Phantom Gaming Z890 motherboard hosts an Intel Core Ultra 7 265K CPU paired with a Palit GeForce RTX 4070 Ti Super, TOUGHRAM XG RGB DDR5 memory, and a Seagate FireCuda 520 SSD. Cooling duties fall to Thermaltake’s Swafan EX RGB and a Pacific SWI Plus loop, all powered by a 1 200 W TOUGHPOWER GF A3 PSU. This build merges rich lore with top-tier components, making it as powerful as it is visually striking.
9. Manta Ray by Modding Cafe
Modding Cafe outdid themselves with this breathtaking Robotic Manta Ray PC, its motorized fins gently undulating to mimic a creature gliding through the depths. Every curve and surface detail evokes the manta’s graceful form, turning a high-end rig into kinetic art. Inside, an Intel Core Ultra 9 285K powers tasks on an ASUS ROG Strix Z890-I motherboard, backed by 48 GB of G.Skill Trident Z5 Royal DDR5-7200 (2×24 GB) and an ASUS TUF RTX 5070 Ti. Storage is handled by a Lexar NM800 PRO SSD, cooling comes from Modding Cafe’s bespoke liquid loop, and everything runs off an 850 W FSP Dagger Pro PSU. This build marries arthouse flair with top-tier performance, and those swimming fins are simply mesmerizing.
10. Beverage Dispenser Mod by KM Studios
KM Studio raised the bar by combining your gaming rig with a four-tap drink dispenser: choose beer, Coke, red wine or soju without ever leaving your seat. The same custom Bitspower cooling loop that chills your beverages also keeps the Intel Core Ultra 7 265K running smoothly on an ASUS ROG Strix Z890-E Gaming Wi-Fi motherboard. Memory comes in at a generous 96 GB of G.Skill Trident Z5 Royal DDR5-8000 (4×24 GB), storage and GPU details weren’t listed, and power is handled by a 1000 W FSP Vita GM PSU. It’s a clever fusion of refreshment and performance that ensures both your thirst and your framerate stay quenched.
Computex 2025 proved that the modding scene is alive and well, and these ten builds are just the beginning. Whether you’re after performance, flair or outright novelty, there’s always something new to discover. Be sure to check out Computex 2026, you won’t want to miss the next wave of custom PC innovation.
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Disable Windows 11 Password: Should You Do It and How
Passwords keep our data from prying eyes. They are used to access laptops, unlock cell phones, and even to access chats or applications. Passwords are the only thing stopping a stranger from using your device and accessing sensitive files. Still, it is possible to disable passwords for easier access, although this should be done with caution. Removing the password for a laptop that does not leave the home is safer than one carried to and from the workplace, for example, as the latter may be vulnerable if lost or stolen. With that in mind, here are some ways to disable your Windows password.
Option 1: Remove your Windows 11 password completely
This option is available to local accounts only. Local accounts are specific to one device, whereas Microsoft accounts can be used across various devices. Local accounts do not require an internet connection to sign in, but settings, files, and applications are limited to one device. Microsoft accounts are linked to an email address and password, allowing access to Microsoft services like Outlook, Hotmail, Office, and Xbox.
Follow these instructions to change from a Microsoft account to a local account:
* Open the Settings app
* Select Accounts > Your info
* Click Sign in with a local account instead
* Type the username, password, and password hint
* Select Next > Sign out and finish
* Try signing back in with your new local account.
Now, follow these instructions to remove the password completely:
* Open the Settings app
* Select Accounts > Sign-in options
* Click Password > Change
* Enter your current password, then leave the new password boxes blank
* Click Finish
Option 2: Use the netplwiz method
This method lets users automatically sign in without removing the password. To get started,
* Open the Start menu and select Settings
* Select Accounts > Sign-in options
* Find For improved security, only allow Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts on this device (Recommended), and turn that toggle off
* Type netplwiz in the Start menu search bar
* Click Open
* Uncheck the box Users must enter a user name and password to use this computer
* Select Apply
* Enter your username and password, then click OK
Option 3: Remove PIN or Windows Hello sign-in methods
To complete this option, be sure to first sign in to the account from which you would like to remove the PIN. Then,
* Open the Start menu and select Settings
* Select Accounts > Sign-in options
* Click Windows Hello PIN > Remove
* When asked to confirm, click Remove again
You can also remove other Windows Hello sign-in methods, like facial recognition, using the above method.
So, should you remove your Windows 11 password?
Removing your Windows 11 password is a personal choice. Passwords are designed to safeguard files and data and can be useful if a device is lost or stolen. However, some may feel that entering a password to log in to a personal laptop is tiresome or unnecessary. In this case, choosing one of the above options may be beneficial to disable a Windows password.
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Blue Light from Screens: Benefits, Risks, and When to Limit Exposure
Blue light is a wavelength of light emitted by electronic devices, fluorescent light, and the sun, contributing to around one-third of visible light. It has short but high-energy waves that may be as powerful as UV rays. Although blue light occurs naturally in our environment, we are being exposed to an increasingly high level of blue light every day because of the widespread use of electronic devices that use LED technology. Moreover, these devices are often used within a short range, sparking debates about the impact of blue light on our eyes.
The potential benefits of blue light exposure
Exposure to blue light has some potential health benefits. It can help us stay alert, boost cognitive function, and even improve symptoms of seasonal depression. Blue light also enhances our body’s natural rhythm, helping us sleep well after dark. Sunlight is crucial for the growth and development of vision in children, as well as providing a key source of vitamin D.
Which health risks are linked to prolonged screen time and blue light?
Almost all visible blue light passes the front of our eyes. It then reaches the retina and creates the images we see. An estimated 80% of American adults use devices for more than two hours a day, resulting in 59% experiencing symptoms of eye strain from overuse. Although blue light exposure does have benefits, there are also health risks from prolonged screen time.
Prolonged exposure to blue light can damage retinal cells. In extreme cases, this can contribute to vision issues like cataracts, eye cancer, and abnormal growths. Other health-related symptoms of blue light exposure include eye strain, dry eyes, headaches, and blurred vision. Blue light also suppresses the release of melatonin, a hormone that makes us feel sleepy, which impacts our sleep. These disturbances to our body’s internal clock can lead to metabolic disorders and even depression.
When should you reduce blue light exposure?
Blue light tricks the brain into thinking it is daytime, which disrupts sleep patterns and makes us alert instead of tired. In fact, a study conducted by Harvard researchers showed that 6.5 hours of blue light exposure suppressed melatonin and impacted circadian rhythms for around 3 hours, which was twice as much as green light. As such, digital devices should be avoided around two to three hours before bed.
Anyone experiencing discomfort due to overuse of electronic devices should limit their exposure to blue light or consider seeking medical help.
How to limit blue light from screens
An effective way of reducing digital eye strain is to take a 20-second break to look at something far away every 20 minutes. Wearing widely available blue light glasses while using devices can also reduce the negative effects of blue light by 10% - 23% while ensuring users can still see their screens. Similarly, blue light filters for computer screens and digital devices protect the eyes without impacting the display.
Windows 11 Night light for reduced blue light exposure
The Windows 11 Night Light function reduces blue light and encourages a more restful sleep. To activate Night Light:
* Open Settings
* Click System > Display
* Switch on the Night light toggle
* Adjust the lighting by clicking the right arrow next to the toggle
* Click Schedule night light to choose when this function should switch on and off
Blue light: the lowdown
Blue light occurs naturally in the sun and can help to regulate our body’s internal clock, boost our mood, and promote alertness. While there are benefits to blue light, overexposure can impact our eye health and sleep quality, and even cause depression. Widely available glasses or screen filters can limit the effects of blue light, and regular eye breaks are recommended during heavy screen sessions. Windows 11 Night light is a handy feature that reduces blue light and promotes better sleep.
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Best Metroidvania Game to Play in 2025
Metroidvania games are perfect for players who enjoy getting lost in big, mysterious worlds. These games let you explore at your own pace, find hidden paths, and unlock new powers as you go. In 2025, the selection is better than ever. From older classics to fresh indie hits, the genre keeps growing in exciting ways. Whether you love detailed pixel art, deep stories, or tough boss fights, there’s something here for you. This list will guide you to the best Metroidvania games you can play this year.
1. Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night is the game that helped define the Metroidvania genre. First released in 1997, it remains one of the most influential and widely praised action-platformers of all time. You play as Alucard, the son of Dracula, exploring a sprawling, interconnected castle filled with secrets, monsters, and power-ups. Unlike earlier Castlevania titles, this game ditched the linear level design in favor of open-ended exploration. You gain new abilities over time, such as double-jumping or turning into mist, which let you reach previously blocked areas and encourage constant backtracking and discovery.
The art design, music, and RPG-like progression system still hold up remarkably well. Even after nearly three decades, few games match its balance of atmosphere, gameplay depth, and freedom. Fans of the Castlevania Netflix series will find plenty of familiar faces and lore threads woven throughout the game. It's available on modern platforms like PlayStation, Xbox, and mobile, making it easy to experience or revisit in 2025.
2. Metroid Dread
Metroid Dread is a modern revival of Nintendo’s classic sci-fi series, released in 2021 for the Nintendo Switch. It continues the story from Metroid Fusion, placing you once again in control of Samus Aran as she explores a dangerous alien planet teeming with secrets, hostile lifeforms, and ancient Chozo technology. The game blends smooth movement, responsive combat, and a steady stream of upgrades that gradually open up new areas.
A major addition is the E.M.M.I. robots, relentless, nearly indestructible machines that patrol specific zones. Their presence creates a tense cat-and-mouse dynamic that adds urgency to the usual exploration. The map design is tight and layered, rewarding curiosity while rarely feeling aimless.
With clean visuals, sharp design, and a strong sense of momentum, Metroid Dread succeeds at both honoring its roots and pushing the formula forward. It’s a standout in the genre and a great showcase of how well 2D Metroidvanias can still evolve.
3. Animal Well
Animal Well is a different kind of Metroidvania that replaces combat with curiosity and trades boss fights for brain-teasers. You play as a small, silent blob emerging from a flower bud into a dark, beautifully pixelated world. There’s no map at first, no clear guidance, and no explanation of your purpose. You explore, experiment, and gradually piece together meaning from the cryptic surroundings. Every item you find, like a frisbee, firecracker, or slinky, becomes a strange new tool for solving puzzles and reaching hidden areas.
This is also the first title published by Bigmode, the label founded by YouTuber Video Game Dunkey. While his name helped bring early attention, the game shines entirely on its own. Nearly every screen holds a secret, and the further you explore, the more complex and rewarding the mysteries become. Even after the credits roll, you're far from finished.
For players who love solving puzzles, experimenting with mechanics, and trading discoveries with others, Animal Well is one of the most original Metroidvania experiences available
4. Blasphemous 2
Blasphemous 2 is a grotesque and gorgeously crafted Metroidvania that leans fully into its themes of religious horror, unsettling imagery, and cryptic lore. You once again take control of The Penitent One, a silent warrior navigating a nightmarish world shaped by suffering and devotion. While the sequel doesn't reinvent the genre, it builds confidently on the foundation of the first game with tighter mechanics, more varied exploration, and a richly disturbing atmosphere.
This time around, you’re given three distinct weapons early on: a heavy flail, a fast rapier and dagger set, and a balanced greatsword. Each weapon offers a unique movement ability that helps you access new areas and adds variety to both combat and platforming. The world is packed with detailed pixel art and grotesque scenes that linger in your mind long after you’ve put down the controller.
With its unforgettable visuals, refined gameplay, and oppressive yet captivating tone, Blasphemous 2 is a standout title for anyone looking to get lost in a dark and deeply unsettling Metroidvania.
5. Dead Cells
Dead Cells is a fast-paced, stylish blend of Metroidvania exploration and roguelike progression. Released in 2018 and still actively updated years later, it remains one of the most addictive and replayable entries in the genre. You play as a mysterious creature inhabiting a headless corpse, fighting your way through a shifting series of biomes filled with deadly traps, challenging enemies, and secrets around every corner.
Unlike traditional Metroidvanias, Dead Cells features procedurally generated levels that change with each run. But it still keeps the core of the genre intact, with branching paths, ability-based progression, and new zones becoming accessible as you collect permanent upgrades. Combat is quick and fluid, with dozens of weapons, skills, and mutations that let you tailor your build to your playstyle. Whether you prefer long-range traps or up-close brutality, the game gives you plenty of tools to experiment with.
It also features post-launch expansions that have added new content and even crossovers with other indie games. In 2023, Return to Castlevania brought a full DLC that paid tribute to the series that helped define the genre. With tight gameplay, gorgeous pixel art, and near-endless variety, Dead Cells continues to stand as a must-play action-platformer.
6. Hollow Knight
Hollow Knight is often considered a modern classic of the Metroidvania genre. Developed by Team Cherry and released in 2017, it set a new benchmark for world-building, atmosphere, and emotional depth in 2D exploration games. You play as a silent, masked knight delving into the ruined kingdom of Hallownest, a vast underground world filled with decaying civilizations, haunting lore, and brutal enemies.
The game blends tight, responsive combat with rich environmental storytelling. Each area feels distinct and interconnected, rewarding players who take the time to explore every hidden path. Progression is tied to acquiring new abilities like wall-jumping, dashing, and double-jumping, which slowly open up deeper layers of the map. Despite its challenge, Hollow Knight is never unfair. Every boss fight, secret, and upgrade feels earned.
At The Game Awards 2017, Hollow Knight was nominated for Best Independent Game and Best Debut Indie Game. It didn’t take home a trophy, but it left a lasting impact on the genre and the indie scene as a whole. With Silksong still on the horizon, now is the perfect time to experience this beautifully crafted adventure.
7. Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a visually stunning and emotionally rich Metroidvania that expands on the tight platforming and heartfelt storytelling of its predecessor. Developed by Moon Studios and published by Xbox Game Studios, this 2020 follow-up to Ori and the Blind Forest trades simplicity for scale, offering a much larger world, deeper mechanics, and more combat-focused gameplay. You guide Ori through ten beautifully crafted biomes filled with secrets, upgrades, and increasingly tricky platforming challenges.
The game introduces a host of new movement abilities, from grappling through the air to burrowing through sand, and these skills make traversal a constant joy. While the combat can feel clunky at times, especially compared to how fluid the platforming is, it doesn’t overshadow the game’s core strengths. The escape sequences and multi-phase boss fights can be frustrating, but the satisfaction of mastering them is undeniable.
At its best, Will of the Wisps delivers moments of pure flow, where movement, music, and animation come together seamlessly. It's not without flaws, but its charm, emotional weight, and breathtaking art direction make it one of the most memorable Metroidvania experiences still worth playing in 2025.
8. Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night is a love letter to Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, crafted by none other than Symphony’s assistant director, Koji Igarashi. Marketed from the start as a spiritual successor, Bloodstained delivers on its promise with gothic flair, satisfying progression, and a massive castle teeming with secrets. You play as Miriam, a shardbinder who can absorb the powers of demons she defeats, creating endless options for building a combat style that fits your preferences.
From floating familiars and magical shields to martial arts and greatswords, Bloodstained offers a staggering variety of weapons and abilities. The world itself is equally diverse, moving beyond classic cathedral and dungeon aesthetics into surreal, unexpected environments that feel alive with detail and menace. Hidden walls, fast-travel rooms, and impressively lit vistas reward careful exploration at every turn.
Despite some technical hiccups on release, especially on the Switch, Bloodstained stands as one of the finest modern Metroidvanias. It’s a long-awaited return to form for the genre's golden era and a reminder that Igarashi's brand of exploration-heavy, loot-driven gameplay still has plenty of life left in it.
9. Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown reimagines the long-dormant franchise by fusing its classic platforming roots with the depth and exploration of a modern Metroidvania. Developed by Ubisoft Montpellier, this 2.5D action-platformer shifts away from the cinematic 3D entries of the past and returns to a side-scrolling perspective, one that allows for sharp combat, precise traversal, and one of the most polished gameplay experiences in the genre today.
You play as Sargon, a member of the elite Immortals, who is sent to the mythological Mount Qaf to rescue the kidnapped prince. The story taps into Persian mythology and time distortion, though some of its more intriguing narrative threads don’t fully develop. Still, the core gameplay is what makes this title shine. From the start, Sargon is fast, deadly, and equipped with a wide array of melee abilities that make every encounter feel intense and stylish. The game’s combat evokes the rhythm and complexity of titles like Sekiro, with parries, combos, and cinematic finishers giving each fight dramatic weight.
Platforming is just as satisfying. Classic Metroidvania upgrades like double jumps and grapples gradually open up a sprawling, interconnected world full of secrets, optional challenges, and cleverly layered obstacles. One standout feature is the photo map system, which lets you tag points of interest by taking snapshots, an elegant solution to the genre’s often-tedious backtracking.
While its story may leave a few threads hanging, The Lost Crown excels where it counts: refined combat, fluid movement, and intricate level design. It’s a bold return for the series and one of the strongest Metroidvania titles available to play in 2025.
10. Hollow Knight: Silksong
Hollow Knight: Silksong remains one of the most anticipated Metroidvania games in the world, and after years of near silence, 2025 finally feels like the year it arrives. Originally announced in 2019, the sequel to Hollow Knight puts players in control of Hornet, the agile and sharp-tongued warrior who played a key role in the first game. This time, she steps into the spotlight as the main character, navigating a new haunted kingdom filled with danger, mystery, and vertical exploration.
While there is still no confirmed release date, Team Cherry has announced a 2025 launch window. With Silksong scheduled to be playable at Australia’s ACMI Game Worlds exhibition starting September 18, there’s a strong chance it will be released to the public before then. If so, it could easily become the biggest indie launch of the year.
Early footage highlights a faster, more combat-oriented experience. Hornet’s acrobatic movement and needle-based attacks promise a distinct feel from the original. With new biomes, dozens of enemies, and a reworked quest system, Silksong has all the makings of another modern Metroidvania classic.
If you’re diving into Metroidvanias for the first time or revisiting old favorites, 2025 offers some of the strongest entries the genre has ever seen. To get the most out of these richly detailed worlds and split-second platforming challenges, high-performance gear makes all the difference. Acer Predator computers, monitors, and accessories deliver the speed, clarity, and responsiveness serious players demand.
Level up your setup: Shop Acer Predator gear
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What Windows 10 End of Support Means for Your Business
Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. With this date quickly approaching, the implications for your business are starting to become more and more urgent. With no more security updates, bug fixes, or technical support beyond this deadline, companies still relying on Windows 10 are facing increased risks ranging from cybersecurity vulnerabilities to compliance concerns and operational disruption.
This moment marks more than just a software sunset. It’s an opportunity to assess your IT infrastructure, modernize aging hardware, and equip your workforce with secure, AI-powered tools built for today’s evolving business needs.
How End of Support Will Impact End Users
When Microsoft ends support for Windows 10, critical services will no longer be available. This includes no more security updates, which means any vulnerabilities discovered after the cutoff date will go unpatched, exposing systems to growing cybersecurity threats. Businesses will also lose access to bug fixes and performance enhancements, potentially leading to stability issues and reduced efficiency. And with Microsoft ending technical support for Windows 10, troubleshooting becomes more complex and resource-intensive. Over time, new applications and services may also stop supporting Windows 10, leading to compatibility challenges that affect both user experience and operational continuity.
To avoid these risks and maintain business continuity, it’s important to begin planning your next steps now.
What You Can Do
In order to reduce any potential disruptions and maximize long-term value, businesses should not hesitate to start planning as soon as possible. Key steps include:
* Assessing Device Readiness - Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool or consult your IT partner to determine which devices are eligible for a Windows 11 upgrade.
* Upgrading to Windows 11 - If devices are compatible, plan an OS migration strategy that minimizes downtime and supports employee productivity.
* Modernizing with New Hardware - Older devices that don’t meet Windows 11 requirements should be replaced. Modern devices offer built-in security, improved performance, and AI-readiness.
Be Future-Ready with Acer
As your business prepares for life beyond Windows 10, the need for modern devices built around performance, productivity, and security has never been greater. Today’s PCs must handle demanding workloads, protect sensitive data, and support seamless collaboration - all while being ready to harness the power of AI in the workplace.
In each of these areas, Acer TravelMate business laptops are built to deliver: on the back of powerful Intel® Core™ Ultra processors with Intel vPro®, modern workflows are supercharged with NPU-backed performance and speeds; with business-grade hardware- and software-based multi-layered security, your business’ data stays secure - no matter where you are; and employees are empowered to excel with a variety of productivity-focused tools such as exclusive Copilot+ PC AI features including Live Caption, Recall, Windows Studio Effects, and much more. With all of these taken together, TravelMate business laptops are capable of supporting the way people work in modern environments - and with built-in AI capabilities and Windows 11 Pro, they’re ready for the next era of business computing, right out of the box.
Choose TravelMate and step into a new era of business certainty, with acertainty.
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How to Fix a Critical Process Died Error in Windows 11
If your screen suddenly turns blue and your system reboots with the error Critical Process Died, you’re not alone. This Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) is one of the more common Windows 11 stop codes, and it signals a serious system failure that prevents Windows from continuing to run safely.
In this guide, we’ll explain what the critical_process_died error means, how to find the stopcode and fix it in Windows 11, and what steps to take depending on when the error occurs, whether during gaming, after an update, or when Safe Mode itself fails.
What is BSOD and what triggers "Critical Process Died"?
BSOD, or Blue Screen of Death, is Windows' built-in fail-safe mechanism that forces a reboot when it encounters a system-level problem it cannot recover from. The critical process died in Windows 11 message typically appears when an essential system process unexpectedly terminates.
This could be due to:
* Corrupted system files
* Outdated or faulty drivers
* A failed Windows update
* Hardware issues such as overheating or disk errors
* Resource-heavy software pushing the system too far
Understanding the stopcode is your first step. When you encounter a BSOD, take note of the stopcode "CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED." You can also find it again later in the Reliability Monitor or Event Viewer under system crashes.
Fixing Critical Process Died errors during gaming
Many users report that the critical_process_died stopcode appears when their system is under load, especially during gaming. This is often tied to GPU instability, overheating, or resource saturation.
Recommended steps:
* Update your GPU drivers directly from NVIDIA or AMD using their official tools.
* Disable any overclocking utilities to test system stability at base settings.
Monitor your system temperature using HWMonitor or MSI Afterburner. If your CPU or GPU regularly exceeds 85°C, address your system’s cooling.
* Close resource-heavy background applications before playing.
Fixing post-update Critical Process Died crashes
Windows 11 updates sometimes introduce conflicts with existing drivers or corrupt system files. If you started seeing BSOD errors after a recent update, it’s possible the update is the root cause.
Here's how to roll back an update:
* Open Settings and navigate to Windows Update > Update History.
* Select Uninstall Updates and remove the most recent patch.
* Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
* Once that completes, run: sfc /scannow
To prevent future issues, switch your Windows Updates to manual install so you can review known issues before applying patches.
What to do when Safe Mode doesn’t work
In some cases, even Safe Mode fails. This points to a deeper issue in your system's boot configuration or drive integrity.
Here’s how to fix it using installation media:
* Use another computer to create a bootable Windows 11 USB drive using the Media Creation Tool.
* Boot your affected PC from the USB and select Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Repair.
If Startup Repair fails, choose Command Prompt and run these commands one at a time:
* Restart your computer while holding the SHIFT key. This will trigger the Advanced Startup menu.
* Once the menu appears, select Troubleshoot.
* Go to Advanced Options, then choose Command Prompt.
* In the Command Prompt window, enter the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:* bootrec /fixmbr
* bootrec /fixboot
* bootrec /scanos
* bootrec /rebuildbcd
* These commands will rebuild your system’s Boot Configuration Data and fix MBR-related issues that may be preventing startup.
* Once complete, close the Command Prompt and return to the first menu screen.
* Select Continue to boot into Windows normally.
This method is effective for resolving deep system errors that block Safe Mode access and cause the critical_process_died error to appear at startup.
Preventing critical process crashes with smarter software choices
Heavy applications that run in the background can strain system resources, especially on lower-spec machines. Microsoft Office, for example, can quietly run sync services and background updates even after closing the app, increasing memory and CPU usage.
Switching to lighter tools like WPS Office can improve system stability:
* Faster installation and lower memory footprint
* Auto-recovery features that protect documents during crashes
* Direct compatibility with Microsoft Office file formats
Fewer background processes compared to larger productivity suites
Choosing software that aligns with your hardware capacity can prevent minor system stress from escalating into BSOD events.
Additional tools to improve system stability
* Reliability Monitor: Type "Reliability Monitor" in the Windows search bar to view a timeline of crashes and stopcodes. It’s helpful for identifying what led up to the critical_process_died error.
* Driver updates: Use official software from your hardware manufacturer or third-party driver managers to keep everything up to date.
* System Restore: If you’ve created restore points, rolling back your system to a time before the crash can resolve the issue without data loss.
Final thoughts
The Critical Process Died error in Windows 11 is serious, but in most cases, it can be fixed without reinstalling your entire system. Whether it happens mid-game, after an update, or during startup, the right mix of file repairs, driver updates, and smart software choices can bring your system back to life.
Take the time to investigate the stopcode, keep your drivers clean, and streamline your setup. In doing so, you'll not only fix the BSOD but also make your Windows 11 experience far more stable in the long run.
