Microsoft Outlook terminate automatically while opening

 When Microsoft Outlook automatically terminates (closes) while opening, the issue is often caused by problematic add-ins, a corrupted user profile, or a damaged Office installation. 

Here are the primary troubleshooting steps recommended by Microsoft, ordered from simplest to most involved:

1. Run Outlook in Safe Mode and Disable Add-ins 

Starting Outlook in safe mode prevents add-ins from loading and helps determine if an add-in is the cause of the problem. 

• Exit Outlook.
• Press the Windows logo key + R to open the Run dialog box.
• Type Outlook /safe and press Enter.
• If Outlook opens successfully in safe mode, the issue is likely caused by a faulty add-in. To disable them:
  • Go to File > Options > Add-ins.
  • At the bottom of the window, next to Manage, select COM Add-ins and click Go.
  • Clear all the checkboxes in the list, and then select OK.
  • Restart Outlook normally. If the problem is resolved, re-enable the add-ins one by one to identify the specific one causing the conflict. 

2. Repair Microsoft Office

Corrupted Office program files can also cause crashes. An online repair is more thorough than a quick repair. 

• Exit all Office programs.
• Open the Control Panel.
• Select Programs > Programs and Features (or Apps > Apps & features in Windows 10/11).
• In the list of installed programs, right-click your Microsoft 365 or Microsoft Office installation and then select Change (or Modify).
• Choose Online Repair (select Repair if only given one option) and follow the on-screen prompts.
• Restart your computer after the repair is complete. 

3. Create a New Outlook Profile 

If the existing profile is corrupted, creating a new one can often fix the issue. 

• Exit Outlook.
• Open the Control Panel.
• Search for and open Mail (Microsoft Outlook).
• In the Mail Setup window, select Show Profiles.
• Select the old profile and click Remove. (Note: If you're unsure if data files are backed up, skip removing the old profile and just proceed with adding a new one).
• Click Add, type a name for the new profile, and then follow the prompts to add your email account.
• Set the new profile as the default profile and open Outlook. 

Additional Steps

• Install the latest updates: Ensure both Windows and Outlook are fully updated, as bug fixes for known crashing issues are released regularly. You can update Office from within Outlook by going to File > Office Account > Update Options > Update Now.
• Run the Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant (SaRA) tool: This diagnostic tool can automatically find and fix common Outlook issues.
• Check for Antivirus Conflicts: Antivirus software with Outlook integration can sometimes cause problems. Temporarily disable it to see if the issue stops. 

Sample Course Outline of IT Support Engineering.

 Sample Course Outline of IT Support Engineering.

Course Overview:

The IT Support Engineering course is designed for individuals aspiring to work as IT support engineers, helpdesk technicians, or technical support specialists. The course provides the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to troubleshoot, maintain, and support computer systems, networks, and enterprise IT infrastructure. Students will also gain experience with operating systems, hardware troubleshooting, networking, and cloud services, preparing them for real-world IT support roles.

Target Audience:

• Aspiring IT support engineers
• Helpdesk support technicians
• IT professionals looking to specialize in support engineering
• Anyone interested in pursuing a career in IT infrastructure and troubleshooting

Pre-requisites:

• Basic understanding of computers and operating systems (Windows, MacOS, Linux)
• Familiarity with networking concepts (IP, DNS, DHCP)
• Basic understanding of hardware components (CPU, RAM, hard drives)

Course Outline:

Module 1: Introduction to IT Support Engineering

• Role and Responsibilities of IT Support Engineers: Overview of job roles, responsibilities, and industry standards
• Types of IT Support: First-line (Helpdesk), second-line (Technical Support), third-line (Specialist/Engineering), and escalation procedures
• IT Support Workflow: Ticketing systems, issue resolution process, and SLAs (Service Level Agreements)
• Soft Skills in IT Support: Communication, troubleshooting, problem-solving, and customer service

Module 2: Operating Systems Fundamentals

• Overview of Operating Systems: Windows, MacOS, Linux distributions (Ubuntu, CentOS)
• Windows OS Support: Installation, configuration, and troubleshooting Windows operating systems (Windows 10/11, Windows Server)
• Linux OS Support: Basic Linux commands, file system structure, user management, package management
• MacOS Support: Basic MacOS troubleshooting, system preferences, disk utilities
• File Systems and Permissions: NTFS, FAT, ext4, HFS+ file systems and access control (ACLs)
• System Performance Monitoring: Task Manager, Activity Monitor, and system logs (Event Viewer, syslog)

Module 3: Hardware Fundamentals

• PC Components: CPU, RAM, hard drives (HDD vs. SSD), motherboards, power supplies, graphics cards
• Peripheral Devices: Printers, scanners, monitors, keyboards, mice
• Hardware Troubleshooting: Identifying common hardware failures (overheating, hard drive failure, faulty RAM), diagnostic tools
• Building a PC: Assembling a desktop system, connecting hardware components, and BIOS setup
• Upgrading Hardware: Memory upgrades, storage devices, and GPU replacement

Module 4: Networking Basics for IT Support

• Networking Fundamentals: OSI model, TCP/IP, LAN, WAN, VPN
• IP Addressing: IPv4, IPv6, subnetting, DHCP
• Network Devices: Routers, switches, hubs, firewalls, access points
• DNS and DHCP: Domain Name System (DNS), Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) configuration and troubleshooting
• Cabling and Connectivity: Ethernet cables (CAT5, CAT6), fiber optics, wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi standards)
• Basic Network Troubleshooting: Ping, traceroute, ipconfig/ifconfig, nslookup, Wireshark basics

Module 5: IT Support Tools and Software

• Remote Desktop Support: Using tools like TeamViewer, AnyDesk, Chrome Remote Desktop for remote troubleshooting
• Ticketing Systems: Zendesk, Freshdesk, ServiceNow (creating tickets, updating statuses, and managing service requests)
• System Imaging Tools: Creating and deploying disk images (e.g., Acronis, Clonezilla)
• Patch Management: Windows Update, WSUS (Windows Server Update Services), Linux package managers (apt, yum)
• Antivirus and Malware Removal: Identifying and removing malware using tools like Malwarebytes, Windows Defender, and other third-party utilities
• Backup Solutions: Setting up and troubleshooting backup software (Acronis, Veeam, or native OS solutions)

Module 6: Network Security and Firewalls

• Basic Security Concepts: Authentication, authorization, encryption, and network security layers
• Firewall Configuration: Configuring and troubleshooting hardware and software firewalls (e.g., pfSense, Windows Firewall)
• Antivirus and Endpoint Security: Protecting endpoints with antivirus tools and endpoint protection platforms (EDR solutions)
• Securing Network Traffic: SSL/TLS, VPNs, IPsec, securing Wi-Fi networks
• Basic Cybersecurity Threats: Phishing, social engineering, DDoS attacks, malware (ransomware, spyware)
• Security Best Practices: Regular patching, secure configurations, monitoring, and incident response

Module 7: Cloud Services and Virtualization

• Introduction to Cloud Computing: Public vs. private clouds, SaaS, PaaS, IaaS
• Cloud Service Providers: Overview of AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
• Cloud Storage: Cloud-based file storage and synchronization (Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox)
• Virtualization: VMware, Hyper-V, VirtualBox – creating and managing virtual machines
• Cloud Migration: Basic steps for migrating IT infrastructure to the cloud
• Cloud Security: Managing user permissions, data protection in the cloud

Module 8: Troubleshooting Methodology

• Structured Troubleshooting Process: Identifying symptoms, gathering information, isolating the root cause, and implementing a solution
• Troubleshooting Tools: Command-line tools (ping, tracert, ipconfig), graphical tools (Task Manager, Resource Monitor)
• System Boot Issues: Troubleshooting boot failures, recovery options in Windows and Linux (e.g., Safe Mode, GRUB)
• Common IT Support Scenarios: Troubleshooting email issues, network connectivity problems, printer issues, application crashes
• Customer Communication: Communicating effectively with non-technical users and documenting solutions

Module 9: IT Support in an Enterprise Environment

• Managing IT Infrastructure: Monitoring and supporting enterprise networks, servers, and client devices
• Active Directory (AD) Support: User creation, group policies, and troubleshooting AD-related issues
• Group Policy Management: Configuring and troubleshooting Group Policies in Windows environments
• Network Shares and Permissions: Setting up and managing shared drives, configuring NTFS and share permissions
• Server Administration: Basic admin tasks in Windows Server (installation, configuring roles, Active Directory, DNS) and Linux servers
• ITIL Framework: Introduction to IT Service Management (ITSM), ITIL processes, and best practices for service delivery

Module 10: IT Support Best Practices and Professionalism

• Customer Service Excellence: Providing professional, empathetic support, managing customer expectations
• Documenting Issues and Solutions: Best practices for ticket documentation, knowledge base creation, and maintaining a knowledge repository
• Working in a Team: Collaboration with other IT professionals, handling escalations, working with vendors and third parties
• Ethics and Confidentiality: Handling sensitive data and adhering to privacy regulations (GDPR, HIPAA)
• Continuous Learning and Certifications: Importance of certifications (CompTIA A+, Network+, ITIL) and staying updated with the latest technologies

Module 11: Capstone Project

• Project Guidelines: Simulating a real-world IT support scenario, such as resolving network issues, diagnosing hardware problems, or managing a support desk.
• Project Phases: Issue identification, troubleshooting, resolution, and documentation
• Mentorship and Feedback: Personalized feedback on the project and final presentation

Thanks for reading...

Masud Rana

HP Pavilion 15 Laptop Keyboard Not Working

HP Pavilion 15 Laptop Keyboard Not Working

To fix an unresponsive HP Pavilion 15 keyboard, first restart the laptop and test it after holding the power button for 15 seconds. Next, check for physical obstructions or damage, then clean the keyboard area. Try updating or reinstalling the keyboard driver in Device Manager and run the Windows keyboard troubleshooter. If the keyboard still doesn't work, run the HP built-in component test to determine if the issue is hardware-related, requiring professional service. 

1. Perform Basic Troubleshooting

• Restart your laptop: A simple restart can often resolve temporary software glitches. 
• Power Reset: Turn off your laptop, disconnect the power adapter, and press and hold the power button for 15 seconds. Wait for a few seconds, then plug in the power adapter and restart the laptop. 
• Check for Physical Damage and Clean: Inspect the keyboard for dirt, dust, or debris that may be causing issues. Turn the laptop off, disconnect the power, and use compressed air to blow out any dirt. You can also use a soft brush or a slightly damp microfiber cloth to clean the keys, allowing the laptop to dry completely before use. 

2. Update or Reinstall Keyboard Drivers

• Access Device Manager: Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager. 
• Locate the Keyboard: Expand the Keyboards category. 
• Update Driver: Right-click your keyboard driver and select Update driver, then choose Search automatically for drivers. 
• Uninstall and Restart: If updating doesn't work, right-click the driver again and select Uninstall device. Restart your computer, and Windows will automatically reinstall the driver. 

3. Run Diagnostics and Troubleshooters

• HP Component Test:

  After restarting the laptop, press the Esc key repeatedly to open the Startup Menu. Select F2 for System Diagnostics, then choose Component Tests and the Keyboard test to check for hardware faults. 
• Windows Troubleshooter:

  Go to Settings > Update & Security (or System in Windows 11) > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters. Run the Keyboard troubleshooter and follow any on-screen instructions. 

4. Check BIOS/UEFI Settings 

• Enter BIOS/UEFI:

  Press Esc repeatedly at startup to open the Startup Menu, then press F10 to access the BIOS Setup.
• Load Default Settings:

  Navigate to the Exit tab and select Load Default Settings, then press F10 to save and exit.

5. Seek Professional Help 

• If the HP component test indicates a hardware failure or the issue persists after these steps, contact HP support or visit an authorized service center for professional repair.

Thanks for Reading...

Masud Rana