You can now allow apps that were blocked by Windows 10's ransomware protection using this new option on version 1809.

On Windows Security (formerly known as Windows Defender Security Center), Controlled folder access is a feature designed to protect your data against ransomware and other dangerous malware.

When enabled, the anti-malware feature monitors the changes that apps make to your documents, and if suspicious behavior is detected, the app gets blocked automatically. The only caveat is that it's not perfect, and it's possible for Controlled folder access to block a trusted application.

To ease this problem, starting with the Windows 10 October 2018 Update (version 1809), the feature has updated with a new option to quickly allow recently blocked applications without the need to disable the security feature just because of a false positive.

In this Windows 10 guide, we'll walk you through the easy steps to whitelist app that you trust and were recently blocked by Controlled folder access with the new option available with the October 2018 Update.

How to allow blocked apps by the Windows 10's ransomware protection

To allow apps that were recently blocked by Controlled folder access on Windows Security, use these steps:

1. Open Windows Security.
2. Click on Virus & threat protection.

3. Under "Ransomware protection," click the Manage ransomware protection option.

4. Click the Allow an app through Controlled folder access option.

5. Click the Add an allowed app button.

6. Click the Recently blocked apps option.

7. Click the + (plus) button for the app you trust and want to allow.

8. Click the Close button.

Once you've completed the steps, Controlled folder access will no longer try to block the app you allowed on Windows 10.

If you made a mistake, you can always select the app from the list, and click the Remove button to block it again.

Do you use the ransomware protection available on Windows 10? Let us know in the comments.

More Windows 10 resources

For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10, visit the following resources:

• Windows 10 on Windows Central – All you need to know
• Windows 10 help, tips, and tricks
• Windows 10 forums on Windows Central

You can now see how artificial intelligence (AI) has helped you to improve your typing on the Windows 10 October 2018 Update.

Although it's not advertised, Windows 10 includes AI technology to help you improve your typing efficiency. You can see it in action as you type and the system automatically corrects mistakes in words, offers suggestions to save strokes typing the full word, when getting next word prediction, and more.

Starting with the Windows 10 October 2018 Update (version 1809), you can enable the Typing insights feature that allows you to see the number of times AI has helped you when typing using the touch keyboard, and word predictions if you're using a hardware keyboard.

In this Windows 10 guide, we'll walk you through the easy steps to enable or disable Typing insights using the Settings app available with the October 2018 Update or later.

How to enable or disable Typing insights using Settings

To enable or disable Typing insights statistics on Windows 10, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Devices.
3. Click on Typing.

4. Under "How AI has helped you," click the Typing insights option.

5. Turn on or off the Typing insights toggle switch depending on your preference.

Once you've completed the steps, if you enabled the feature, then over time, you can come back to this page to see how Microsoft's AI has been helping you to avoid grammar mistakes and improve your typing efficiency. For example, on this page, you can see the number of times the system helped with word corrections, autocomplete, stroke saves by suggestions, and more.

More Windows 10 resources

For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10, visit the following resources:

• Windows 10 on Windows Central – All you need to know
• Windows 10 help, tips, and tricks
• Windows 10 forums on Windows Central

You can now decide which buttons appear in the Microsoft Edge address bar, and in this guide, we'll show you how.

Alongside the long list of enhancements and features, starting with the Windows 10 October 2018 Update (version 1809), Microsoft Edge now allows you to add or remove action buttons that appear next to the address bar.

This means that you no longer have to put up with the "Add notes" button if you don't use Windows Ink on your device, and you can now add shortcuts for faster access to other features, including history, downloads, and others.

In this Windows 10 guide, we'll show you the easy steps to add or remove buttons next to the address bar of Microsoft Edge with the options available starting with the October 2018 Update.

How to manage the address bar buttons on Microsoft Edge

To customize the buttons that appear next to the address bar, use these steps:

1. Open Microsoft Edge.
2. Click the Settings and more menu button on the top-right corner.
3. Select the Show in toolbar sub-menu.

4. Click the action button that you want to add or remove from the toolbar.

Once you've completed the steps, you may need to repeat the steps to manage additional action buttons in the toolbar.

If you're looking to remove a button for an extension from the toolbar. Right-click the button, and select the Show next to address bar option.

More Windows 10 resources

For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10, visit the following resources:

• Windows 10 on Windows Central – All you need to know
• Windows 10 help, tips, and tricks
• Windows 10 forums on Windows Central

We're a virtual company made up of tech experts from across the globe. With extensive experience in both video conferencing and streaming, we can help you make the right webcam choice for your needs.

Both are excellent webcams. The C922 is better, but its direct predecessor still has plenty going for it like a lower asking price.

Two great webcams

Both of these webcams are very similar, which can make it difficult to choose between them. On a hardware level, they're very much alike, offering 1080p video, stereo microphones, and a plug and play approach to Windows. Whatever you need to use either webcam with, there are no compatibility issues with Windows applications.

It comes down to what your primary objective for your webcam is. If it's simply for video calls or you just want to spend as little as possible, the C920 will serve you well. While it may offer slightly less in terms of outright image quality, the price difference makes up for that. You get 30 FPS video at 1080p, which for any kind of video conferencing will be plenty.

Streamers will prefer the C922

Where the C922 edges ahead is its suitability for folks like streamers. While a dedicated green screen is still better, the C922 has companion software that will allow you to remove your background or replace it entirely, simulating the effects of using a green screen.

The C922 also allows for 60 FPS video, albeit only at 720p resolution. However, if you're broadcasting your gameplay in 60 FPS, being able to match your webcam is a blessing.

This webcam made it close to the top of our list of best webcams for Windows PCs, and for good reason. It's an excellent camera at a reasonable price.

The C922 edges it

While it's definitely best suited for streamers, the C922 at its current price is an extremely good value. The image and video quality are excellent, the backlight compensation is very good, and the background removal tools have plenty of applications beyond streaming.

Logitech C922

For streamers

$70 from Amazon

For folks who stream, this is one of the very best.

The inclusion of software background removal and 60 FPS video makes the C922 a perfect companion for streamers.

The C920 is still a great webcam

It's been around for a while now but the C920 is still an excellent webcam. It's an incredibly good value at its current price, and while it lacks some of the fancy features of the C922, it's very close in performance.

The C922 is an improved version of the C920, which tells you everything.

Logitech C920

Budget pick

Almost as good for less of the dollars.

$50 from Amazon

If fancy background replacement and 60 FPS video aren't on your shopping list, the C920 is very close to as good as the C922 and it costs less.

Microsoft Edge now has a new settings experience, and in this guide, we'll show you what to expect.

Alongside the new features and enhancements, starting with the Windows 10 October 2018 Update, Microsoft Edge introduces several visual refinements, including a redesigned experience to manage the browser settings.

The new experience copies the design available in the Hub with an extra-wide flyout (which you can expand or collapse) that provides faster access to settings. In addition, the new settings are divided into four groups, including General, Privacy & security, Password & autofill, and Advanced, and the options have been reorganized with better descriptions to make them easier to understand and navigate (in most cases).

In this Windows 10 guide, we'll walk you through the steps to get familiar with the new settings experience on Microsoft Edge starting with the October 2018 Update.

How to navigate and manage settings on Microsoft Edge

Once you install the October 2018 Update, and you need to customize the browser, you'll find a new flyout that includes four pages with these settings.

General

On the General page, you'll find the common settings to customize Microsoft Edge.

Customize

Using the Choose a theme drop-down menu, you can quickly change the look and feel of the browser selecting the dark or light theme.

The Open Microsoft Edge with drop-down menu allows you to decide how you want to start the browser, options which include:

• Start page.
• New tab page.
• Previous page.
• A specific page or pages.

The Open new tabs with drop-down similarly let you customize the experience when creating a new tab. The options available include:

• Top sites and suggested content.
• Top sites.
• A blank page.

If you're just making the switch to Microsoft Edge, you can use the Transfer favorites and other info option to import settings from another browser (Internet Explorer, Chrome, and Firefox) automatically or manually importing an HTML file.

If you use the browser to read books, using these settings you can also export your reading progress, notes, bookmarks, and samples.

The General page also includes a number of options to customize several essential features, including an option to show or hide the favorites bar underneath the address bar and the home button next to the navigation controls, which you can customize to access the start page, new tab page, or a specific website.

The Show definitions inline for is a new option starting with the October 2018 Update, and it controls the new built-in dictionary on Microsoft Edge. Using these settings, you can enable or disable the feature altogether, or decide in which content you can look up words.

Downloads

By default, Microsoft Edge saves your downloads in the "Downloads" folder, but if you want to use a different location, you now have to change this setting using the Choose where to save option.

Account

At the bottom of the page, you'll find the "Account" section that allows you to enable or disable settings syncing across devices.

Privacy & security

On the Privacy & security page, you can control several browsing options that can affect your privacy.

Browsing data

Under the "Browsing data" section, you can use the Clear browsing data option to delete browsing data.

Browsing data you can delete includes:

• Browsing history.
• Cookies and saved website data.
• Cached data and files.
• Tabs.
• Download history.
• Autofill data.
• Passwords.
• Media licenses.
• Website permissions.

You can clear your data manually, or you can turn on the option to delete the browsing history every time you close the browser.

If you read books from the Microsoft Store, you can use the Clear books data to delete information like progress, notes, bookmarks, and samples.

The Cookies drop-down menu allows the control of how websites can store and track information about you. It's usually recommended to allow sites to use cookies, but you can use this option to block all or only third-party cookies.

To access protected content from streaming services, Microsoft Edge includes an option to provide sites an environment to temporarily store protected media along with the corresponding media licenses to make sure that you have the right permission to access the media. If you don't consume protected content, you can turn off the Media licenses option on this page.

Privacy

Under the "Privacy" section, you can now decide whether or not to send Do Not Track requests (off by default).

You can prevent Microsoft Edge from showing search and site suggestions as you type in the address bar as well as search history. (Don't confuse "Show search history" with clearing your browsing data, as this option is only to erase history from your Microsoft account.)

Security

Under the "Security" section, you can now conveniently enable or disable the built-in pop-up blocker and the Windows Defender SmartScreen.

Passwords & autofill

The Passwords & autofill page organizes the settings to control passwords and personal information that is used to fill out online forms automatically.

Using the "Passwords" settings, you can allow or prevent Microsoft Edge from saving passwords for online services. And clicking the Manage passwords button, you can view and edit previously saved passwords.

Using the "Autofill" settings, you can allow or prevent the browser from saving credit card and personal information that you input in online forms.

If you click the Manage forms button, you can view, edit, create new entries, or export saved data from forms.

When clicking the Manage cards button, you can view all the credit or debit cards associated with your Microsoft Account.

If you don't want the browser making available cards from your Microsoft account, just turn off the toggle switch under "Microsoft Pay."

Also, using this page, you can click the Add card button to manually input a new debit or credit card information that you want to use during checkouts.

Advanced

The Advanced page has now been consolidated, and it now includes settings for sites, proxy, apps, and address bar.

Site settings

Under the Site settings section, you can control Adobe Flash settings. However, it's recommended to keep this option disabled as it can turn out to be a security risk.

The Media autoplay is new starting with the October 2018 Update, and it allows you to stop websites from playing media automatically. (You can check out this guide to manage media autoplay on Microsoft Edge.)

Proxy

Under the Proxy section, only contains a link to access the Windows 10 Settings app to configure your device to connect to the internet using another computer.

Open sites with apps

The Open sites with apps section allows you to control which sites can open using their official Microsoft Store apps instead of loading the page — just like in mobile devices.

If you click the Choose which sites open in apps button, it'll open the Settings app, in the "Apps for websites" page, where you can decide which sites should open with their app.

Cortana

The Cortana section includes an option to stop getting Cortana assistance while using Microsoft Edge. (This option should stop the assistant available in the address bar and in the right-context menu.)

Address bar search

Although it's may not be obvious for everyone, the "Address bar search" section includes the settings to change the default search engine.

If you're a Microsoft Edge user, but you prefer a different search engine (let say Google), for some odd reason, you now have to drill-down to the very end of the Advanced settings page, and click the Change search provider button. Then select the search engine from the list, and click the Set as default button to apply the changes.

If you don't see the search engine that you like, open the site in the web browser, and then come back to the Change search engine page to adjust the settings.

Do you think that the new changes will make it easier for users to manage the Microsoft Edge settings? Tell us in the comments.

More Windows 10 resources

For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10, visit the following resources:

• Windows 10 on Windows Central – All you need to know
• Windows 10 help, tips, and tricks
• Windows 10 forums on Windows Central

Microsoft Edge uses Bing for search, but you can set another default search engine (let's say Google). In this guide, we show you how.

Starting with the October 2018 Update (version 1809), Windows 10 includes a new version of Microsoft Edge that introduces a slew of improvements and a redesigned visual experience to manage settings. Although the new interface was designed to ease navigation and make settings easier to understand, the new changes seem to make it even harder and more confusing for regular users to change the default search engine to something other than Bing.

The option to set a different search provider is still part of the Advanced settings page, but with the addition of the new pillars and relocating the option to the bottom of the page, it buries the setting even further and makes it literally the last setting you can customize in Microsoft Edge.

In this Windows 10 guide, we walk you through the steps to change the default search engine on Microsoft Edge to Google (or any other provider) with the settings available starting with the October 2018 Update.

How to search with Google instead of Bing on Microsoft Edge

To change the default search engine on Microsoft Edge, use these steps:

1. Open Microsoft Edge.
2. Navigate to Google.com (or the search engine website you prefer).
3. Click the Settings and more button in the top-right.

4. Click the Settings option.

5. Click on Advanced.

6. Under the "Address bar search" section, and click the Change search provider button.

7. Select the Google Search option from the list.

8. Click the Set as default button.

Once you complete these steps, whenever you enter a search query in the address bar, the results will appear using Google's search engine instead of Bing.

Although it's possible to set any search engine you prefer (as long as the provider uses OpenSearch web standard technology), Microsoft Edge seems to be one of the most difficult to configure.

To put it in perspective, other browsers, such as Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox, provide clear and direct access to change the search engine within the settings menu and conveniently offer an option to quickly set a different provider without additional steps.

What search engine do you use when using Microsoft Edge? Tell us in the comments.

More Windows 10 resources

For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10, visit the following resources:

• Windows 10 on Windows Central – All you need to know
• Windows 10 help, tips, and tricks
• Windows 10 forums on Windows Central

Is an Xbox One download grinding to a halt? Can't connect to your favorite multiplayer game? Here are some networking tips for Xbox One users.

Today's video game consoles are quickly shifting over to online-centric experiences, with digital distribution, multiplayer and content expansion packs being the norm for big budget titles. With this new-found focus, getting the best connectivity hugely enhances your Xbox One experience. Here are some in-depth tips to improve your console's networking setup.

• Getting an Xbox One online
• Fix multiplayer lag over Xbox Live
• Reduce Xbox One data use
• Fix slow download speeds over Xbox Live

Getting an Xbox One online

Before getting underway with improving your console's connectivity, you'll first need to make sure your console is correctly connected. The Xbox One supports both wired and wireless connections, with a relatively streamlined setup process.

Wired connections almost always offer the best speeds and stability, with a direct line to your console. While wireless can still provide adequate download and upload speeds, a wired connection is unmatched, especially over distance. By going wireless, you'll be getting the benefits of convenience, without a physical cable between your router and console.

Connecting to Xbox Live with Wi-Fi

To connect your Xbox One to the internet with a wireless connection, you'll need an active Wi-Fi connection within range of the device. By following the steps below, getting your console first connected to the internet is relatively streamlined.

1. Unplug your ethernet cable, if one is connected.
2. Open the Settings app on your Xbox One console.
3. Navigate to the Network tab.
4. Select Network settings.
5. Select Set up wireless network.
6. Choose your wireless network from the list of available networks.
7. Enter your network password. If correctly entered, an on-screen notification is displayed, reading "Everything is good."
8. Click Continue to finish the setup process.

Connecting to Xbox Live with a wired connection

For those using a traditional wired connection, the setup process on Xbox One is significantly easier. To get started, simply plug an ethernet cable into the back of your console. After the cable is recognized, the console will automatically attempt to connect to Xbox Live.

Fix multiplayer issues over Xbox Live

A near-instantaneous connection is often required for online multiplayer experiences, with even the slightest delay potentially making for game-breaking issues. While the complexities of modern networks can result in a wide range of problems, we've compiled some fixes for common issues.

1. Check your connection

Before attempting to improve multiplayer connectivity, we first recommend checking your connection via your Xbox One. This will give you an idea of various network statistics, which can be used to diagnose any potential problems with your current setup. Network statistics can be obtained via the console's Settings app using the steps listed below.

1. Open the Settings app on your Xbox One
2. Navigate to the Network tab
3. Open Network settings
4. Select Detailed network statistics on the right side of the screen

After your connection is checked, values for speed, packet loss, and latency should all be displayed on the screen. These can all influence multiplayer performance, determining how efficiently data is transferred between your console and a server. Speed should be as a high as possible, with lower packet loss and latency ideal. From previous experience, we recommend over 2MBps for a passable multiplayer experience, a packet loss close to zero percent, and latency under 200 ms.

2. Multiplayer design is sometimes to blame

Depending on the type of game you're playing, ideal conditions sometimes aren't replicable due to the nature of a game's online infrastructure. Although most of today's titles launch with stable multiplayer functionality, approaches to networking have infamously harmed certain games from the outset. Two common approaches to online networking are often seen nowadays: peer-to-peer (P2P) networking or dedicated servers.

Dedicated servers are becoming increasingly popular, with a central server hosted solely to accommodate multiplayer matches. Often hosted in a central location with low latency unrivaled by other solutions, this setup can reduce any form of noticeable lag within the capabilities of the host. Provided dedicated servers are hosted across the globe, lag is less common with this type of technology.

P2P networking relies solely on player networks to host multiplayer matches, using one of the player's consoles as a central server. Although this is a considerably cheaper option to develop, using a home connection to host multiplayer matches can result in undesirable latency and interruptions not seen with dedicated servers.

While dozens of hosting factors can cause multiplayer issues, users can expect better performance with dedicated servers. If you're experiencing issues with some multiplayer games, the cause may simply be linked to the game's design. Make sure to search online to see if other users are experiencing issues and whether certain titles can be improved on a per-case basis.

3. Aiming for Open NAT

Network Address Translation (NAT) allows multiple devices to map internal IP addresses to external addresses, for use when connected to the internet. This technology plays a huge role in connectivity with multiplayer games, deciding how incoming traffic is handled.

When connected to Xbox Live, you may have seen terms thrown around which indicate the leniency of NAT types. This somewhat represents your compatibility with other players, with stricter NAT types often experiencing issues with multiplayer connectivity. A good way of showing how NAT influences connectivity is through a handy grid courtesy of Xbox Support. This shows compatibility between NAT types and why aiming for Open NAT makes for the best overall experience.

On a surface level, users with Open NAT will usually see the best experience on Xbox Live. While getting your NAT open is ultimately the end goal for the best connectivity, this has proven to be difficult for many users. There are a few workarounds which can improve your NAT. Here are some of the most effective options you might want to consider.

Note: Do not use a combination of Universal Plug and Play (UPnP), port forwarding and DMZ when configuring your Xbox One's connectivity. Make sure these are all disabled before moving between steps.

• Universal Plug and Play: UPnP is a set of protocols which automatically handles port mappings in an attempt to improve communication in an effective manner. Although UPnP is automatically enabled on most modern routers, enabling this for the first time can drastically improve general connectivity. Again, the steps for checking can vary hugely between routers, so we recommend searching around online for your exact model.

How to get Open NAT on Xbox One using UPnP

• Port Forwarding: Port Forwarding shares its similarities with UPnP. However, it requires manual rules to forward specific ports. Opening and forwarding specific ports on a per-service or per-game basis ensures the best connectivity with certain titles. For more information on port forwarding with your router, search online for specific information for your router.

How to get Open NAT on Xbox One with port forwarding

• DMZ: A demilitarized zone (DMZ) can be set up to remove internet restrictions on a device, essentially telling your router to send unsolicited traffic to your console. While this is almost certain to improve your NAT, it should be used as a last resort when troubleshooting. This is fine to use on an Xbox One console due to the restricted nature of the OS, but it should never be attempted with a standard PC.

How to get Open NAT on Xbox One using DMZ

Reduce Xbox One data use

With file sizes on the rise and a heavier reliance on internet access, modern consoles are prone to eating up data. If you're on a connection associated with a data limit, saving up those bytes is crucial to prevent a hefty bill. These are our top tips for reducing your Xbox One's data usage.

1. Check data usage in the Settings app

Before attempting to reduce your Xbox One's data usage, it's good to get a rough idea of the bandwidth your console uses at this point in time. That ensures your Xbox One's data use is worth addressing while also providing insight into your estimated savings after applying the following tips. Luckily, an in-depth breakdown of bandwidth use is tucked away within the Xbox One's Settings application.

1. Open the Settings app on your Xbox One
2. Navigate to the Network tab
3. Open Network settings
4. Select Bandwidth usage on the right-hand side of the screen

A log of your console's data use should now be displayed on the screen, with hourly figures for the past 24 hours alongside usage breakdowns on a per-month basis. This should give you an idea of how much data your console currently consumes and how it relates to any data caps you may have in place.

2. Disable automatic updates

As convenient as they may be, automatic updates are one of the easiest ways to unknowingly exceed your data limit with an Xbox One. With some recent titles surpassing 100GB, restricting the way your Xbox One updates can save a lot of data in the long run. Although this means you'll have to manually trigger updates as you want them, it can prevent undesired updates from sneakily downloading in the background. By enabling the Xbox One's energy-saving mode using the following steps, this prevents updates from downloading automatically.

1. Open the Settings app on your Xbox One
2. Navigate to the Power mode & startup tab
3. Change the console's power mode to Energy-saving

While this will prevent unwanted downloads, your Xbox One will no longer take advantage of sleep mode. If you want this feature, we simply recommend uninstalling unused games and apps to prevent updates from being downloaded.

3. Install via discs whenever possible

Even with Microsoft pushing towards a digital future, physical discs are still here to stay. If you're an avid gamer who frequently buys new games, buying a retail copy can be an easy way to cut down on data use. With disc-based titles installing directly off the disc, you'll only be using bandwidth for updates over Xbox Live. You'll probably find gaming a lot cheaper, too, with physical copies more heavily discounted than their digital counterparts.

4. Avoid data-hungry games and apps

For the data-conscious, try to stay away from games and applications that use up a significant amount of data. Video streaming applications and intensive multiplayer games are ones to watch out for, with some using GBs of data over only a short period. Extremely bandwidth-heavy tasks such as live streaming on Beam and Twitch should be avoided.

Fix slow download speeds over Xbox Live

Almost every Xbox One owner has suffered from slower than expected download speeds over the years, with a range of factors which affect download performance. While issues can sometimes be linked to back to Microsoft, there are a few ways you can improve speeds yourself. Here are our recommendations to improve your download speeds over Xbox Live.

1. Check your connection

Before attempting to fix slow download speeds, we first recommend checking your connection via your Xbox One. This will give you an idea of both the speed and stability of your network, which has a huge bearing on its ability to quickly download content via the internet. Network statistics can be obtained via the console's Settings app using the steps listed below.

1. Open the Settings app on your Xbox One
2. Navigate to the Network tab
3. Open Network settings
4. Select Detailed network statistics on the right side of the screen

After your connection is checked, values for speed, packet loss, and latency should all be displayed on-screen. Your download speed is crucial here because it has a bearing on the time it takes to download games and apps over Xbox Live. This value will be displayed in how many KBs or MBs are transferred per second.

2. Use the right hardware for the job

The hardware used to connect your Xbox One to the internet also has a huge significance on your network performance, with varying speeds depending on the type of setup.

Wired connections almost always offer the best speeds and stability, with a direct line to your console. While wireless can still provide adequate download and upload speeds, a wired connection is unmatched, especially over distance.

Depending on your router, two wireless bands are widely used nowadays: 2.4GHz and 5GHz connections. It's becoming increasingly common for modern routers to offer dual-band connectivity, which provides access to both frequencies.

While 5GHz ideally offers a higher throughput than a 2.4GHz connection, you'll lose range in the process. However, the range of 2.4GHz connections isn't always a good thing, with possible interference from other 2.4GHz networks and separate local wireless devices. While wired is the way to go if possible, 5GHz networks are a great step up from the standard 2.4GHz offering.

3. Close all games and apps

Due to the nature of the Xbox One's OS, resources are prioritized for games and apps that are currently active. While this ensures a smooth overall experience, downloads can see reduced speeds when left running in the background. Software that also requires significant bandwidth, such as streaming applications, may also impact this speed.

To ensure content is downloaded at the fastest possible rate, close all games and apps currently running on the console. Alternatively, if you're using the Xbox One's instant-on power mode, games can be downloaded while the console is in a sleep state.

4. Avoid peak times

If you're often on your Xbox when you're first back from work or school, you may be experiencing lower-than-expected download speeds during peak times. Affecting both your internet service provider and Xbox Live, downloads may simply be slower due to high demand for the service. While there isn't a huge amount you can do to resolve such issues, you can try downloading content at a quieter time of day.

5. Change DNS settings

Domain Name System (DNS) settings are a huge aspect of the web, translating web domains to their internet protocol (IP) addresses. DNS servers are used to perform this translation and are the gateway to establishing connections to an address.

In most cases, users will most likely use the default DNS settings offered by your internet service provider (ISP). While using these settings is perfectly viable, you may see increased speeds when switching to a third-party anycast solution. Here's how to take advantage of popular third-party DNS services such as GoogleDNS and OpenDNS, on your Xbox One console.

1. Open the Settings app on your Xbox One
2. Navigate to the Network tab
3. Open Network settings
4. Select Advanced settings
5. Select DNS Settings
6. Select Manual to manually enter a new address
7. A screen will now appear to enter an address.
   • If you're using Open DNS, enter 208.67.222.222
   • If using Google DNS, enter 8.8.8.8.
   • If using another third-party service, enter the primary address here.
8. After confirming the primary address, you'll next be prompted to enter a secondary address
   • If you're using Open DNS, enter 208.67.220.220
   • If using Google DNS, enter 8.8.4.4
   • If using another third-party service, the secondary address should go here.

If you wish to revert back to your default DNS settings at any point in time, simply switch your DNS settings back to Automatic.

Note: If you're using an IPv6-enabled connection, the above IPv4 addresses can be used for IPv6 DNS lookups.

6. Enable Quality of Service (QoS)

While this tip is only recommended for our more advanced readers, enabling Quality of Service (QoS) can also bring a notable bump in the speed of your Xbox One downloads. Enabled through your router, QoS manages bandwidth depending on the current traffic on the network. This allows you to prioritize certain traffic types, to ensure bandwidth is allocated to your Xbox One when required.

However, with QoS tied to your router settings, the exact method and complexities behind the feature vary from model to model. We recommend searching online for your exact router, for further information on the feature.

Still need Xbox One help?

Experiencing other issues with your Xbox One? Need help with that new multiplayer game? Take a look at our Xbox Help page for more tips and tricks.

Updated October 8, 2018: Refreshed this guide with our latest Xbox One networking tips.

Struggling to carry out more intense processes on your Synology DS918+ like 4K streaming and other tasks simultaneously? You likely need some more RAM for installed software to use. Luckily, this is a simple process and takes only a few minutes to complete. I'll show you in this guide how to upgrade from just 4GB of RAM to 8GB or even 16GB.

Products Used In This Guide

• Amazon: HyperX 8GB RAM ($77)

How to upgrade your DS918+ RAM

We don't need any tools since Synology includes the bay keys with the NAS and the two RAM slots are located near the entrance after the bays have been removed.

1. Take out the four hard drive bays.

2. The RAM module slots are located on the side where the power button is.

3. Take out the newly purchased RAM modules from its packaging.
4. Take out the existing RAM module from the horizontal slot.
5. Carefully insert the modules into the slots, making sure they're the right way up. Match the notch to that on the modules.
6. Re-insert the hard drive bays.
7. Open up Synology Assistant.
8. Click the cog icon in the top-right.
9. Enable "Memory test".
10. Right-click the DS918+ on the list to start the memory test.

You will now be able to take full advantage of 8GB of RAM. The official word from Synology is only 8GB can be installed, but owners of the NAS have said 16GB appears to work just fine — and the processor supports a maximum of 16GB RAM.

Our top equipment picks

You're going to need some RAM since we're upgrading this component.

RAM

HyperX 8GB RAM

$77 at Amazon

Upgrade with HyperX memory.

HyperX is actually owned by Kingston, one of the leaders in PC memory. This 8GB kit is well worth the price if you need more performance from your Synology DS918+.

The DS918+ already comes with 4GB of RAM, but we recommend picking up the 8GB kit here because it's never a good idea to mix and match your modules. If you have two modules from the same brand and identical family, you are almost guaranteed compatibility.

I love my Surface Book 2 15-inch, but it has a glaring flaw. Thankfully, it's not too hard to work around.

The Surface Book 2 is sleek, svelte, and damn powerful. Sadly, it also struggles with a maddening battery drain issue during intense loads or when gaming, even while plugged in. This tends to affect the 15-inch model most. Thankfully, there is a workaround you can try to mitigate this problem.

Related: Art, gaming, and hardware - a few days with the Surface Book 2

Why does this happen?

Our Executive Editor Daniel Rubino wrote extensively on the matter previously, noting that the wattage on the Surface Book 2 15-inch adapter isn't powerful enough for the potential contained in this device. From Rubino:

The included 102W AC adapter may not be large enough given extreme situations. Only about 95W goes to the Surface Book 2 as the remaining seven watts is used for the USB Type-A port for external charging.

In the vast majority of scenarios, you probably won't run into this issue. The problem arises in games that are intensive on the GPU and CPU, as the Surface Book 2 fans spin up to cope with the additional load. The issue persists in games, particularly those built for DX12, which no longer supports full screen exclusive mode. Full screen exclusive mode allows games to take command of your resolution, shrinking the resolution to match the game automatically. Games like StarCraft Remastered, despite being 2D, run in a window, using up all of the Surface Book 2 15-inch's juicy, power-hungry pixels.

The best way I've found to solve this problem is to simply lower the resolution of the Book 2 manually. Here's how to do that.

How to fix Surface Book 2 15-inch power drain

Follow these steps to change Surface Book 2's screen resolution:

1. Right click on the desktop and select Display settings.
2. Scroll down to Resolution.
3. Select a less intensive resolution setting. (I typically go for 1680 x 1050, because, sadly, there isn't a decent 3:2 option below the Surface Book 2's default.)

4. Alter the layout scaling to your preference. (With a lower resolution, windows and other programs may appear huge with the Book 2's default 200 percent scaling.)

5. Get gaming!

In this resolution, I've found that running games on ultra sttings at around 1080p or lower doesn't even dent the Book 2 15-inch's battery. The display simply wasn't designed with intense graphics in mind, clearly.

Do you have any tips for gaming on the Surface Book 2? Hit the comments and let us know.

See Surface Book 2 at Microsoft

More Windows 10 resources

For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10, visit the following resources:

• Windows 10 on Windows Central – All you need to know
• Windows 10 help, tips, and tricks
• Windows 10 forums on Windows Central

Best answer: Sadly there's no LTE option for the Surface Laptop 2, nor for its predecessor. If you want a Surface PC with LTE, last year's Surface Pro is your best bet. If you're not sold on Surface, HP's ENVY x3 is also a great LTE-friendly option.

• Amazon: Surface Pro (2017) LTE (from $1,500)
• Amazon: HP Envy x2 (from $837)

Why no LTE?

The primary reason for no LTE is due to the Laptop 2's form factor. In order to fit an LTE modem into the chassis, adequate space has to be allocated within the body of the PC. Throw in complications that arise from baking in antenna arrays, interference from the metal chassis, finding a slot for the SIM tray, and beyond, and the Laptop 2 just doesn't lend itself well to the inclusion of LTE connectivity at this time.

There's reason to believe that Microsoft might reconsider LTE for a future Surface Laptop, however. The company is actively exploring the idea of ARM-powered Windows devices under its "Always Connected" branding, which takes a more mobile approach to computing. So far, the push for Windows 10 on ARM hasn't yielded a large response from consumers, but when Microsoft unveils the more modular WinCore OS in the future, that could change.

At least for now, there's no possibility of an LTE Surface Laptop without a significant hardware revision, and considering how incremental the update to the Laptop 2 was, I'd say it's fair to assume the Laptop 3 will be a larger update. Thankfully there are a few alternatives with LTE worth considering.

The Surface Pro (2017) has an LTE version

The Surface Laptop 2 doesn't have LTE, but if you want a slim Windows PC with LTE connectivity, and you're dedicated to the Surface brand, 2017's Surface Pro is still on the market. You'll still be getting a great laptop with all-day battery life, a beautiful display, and improved Surface Pen integration. Plus, you get all the advantages of the Surface brand, namely the 2-in-1 modular design, in a small package.

Surface Pro (2017) brings the LTE

Surface Pro (2017) LTE

From $1,500 at Amazon

The best Surface with LTE

The Surface Pro is a 2-in-1 powerhouse with a versatile form factor and an LTE connectivity option. Intel HD 620 graphics combined with a fanless Core i5 CPU make for a powerful PC, squeezed into a small, sleek package.

HP Envy x2

For the ultimate in Windows portability, consider the HP Envy x2. Running on ARM, the HP Envy x2 is designed for long periods away from a power outlet, and indeed Wi-Fi, owing to its LTE connectivity. You can get around 22 hours worth of battery life out of this thing, complete with a keyboard cover and stylus, making it ideal for inking on the go.

LTE alternative

HP Envy x2

From $837 at Amazon

Ultimate in portability.

This is an LTE alternative for battery life fans. Rocking up to 22 hours of video playback, the ARM-powered Envy x2 is a solid machine for those looking for LTE connectivity. For more information, see our comprehensive review.

The arrival of the winter season brings a new drag race. But only while it's icy.

Every week on a Thursday the season changes in Forza Horizon 4, and with it come special races and challenges. One of these that isn't specifically highlighted as a seasonal race, at least not right now, is the Ice Flats drag strip.

You likely had no idea this existed, since it only applies during winter. But if you're looking for a new high-speed test, here's where to find it.

Where to find the Ice Flats winter drag strip in Forza Horizon 4

Now that Derwent Water has frozen over, the Ice Flats drag strip is open for business. In a similar sense to the beach drag strip, you can't just fast travel to it, since it's not actually on a road.

You should be seeing a marker in the southern part of Derwent Water, but if you're not, head to the location on the map shown below.

The easiest way to get there is to go into the lake from the Derwent Mansion player house, heading straight out onto the ice and going northeast for a short jaunt. You'll see the standard start line for the drag strips appear and you'll be able to race solo, co-op, PvP or rivals just as with any other drag strip.

So, head on out onto the ice and enjoy it while you can. After seven days spring arrives and you'll have to wait until winter comes around again to get some icy drag racing in.

Forza Horizon 4 is available now for Xbox One and Windows 10 from $59.99 and as part of Xbox Game Pass.

See at Microsoft

Uncover hidden treasures of the British countryside with our guide to Forza Horizon 4 barn finds.

Microsoft has debuted its latest entry in the Forza Horizon series, taking the fanatical festival to the roads of Britain. Like its predecessors, Forza Horizon 4 features a dense open world, packed with motoring events and vehicles to uncover. The mysterious "Barn Finds" also return, providing the chance to secure long-forgotten treasures scattered throughout the countryside.

Forza Horizon 4 features 15 barn finds in total, yet the full collection isn't available from launch. Some barn finds are harder to locate than before, while new seasonal barns rotate weekly alongside the game world. We've broken down every Forza Horizon 4 barn find, and how to locate it yourself.

See at AmazonSee at Microsoft Store

1983 Audi Sport Quattro

The 1983 Audi Sport Quattro is an icon of German engineering, best performing in road and rally. This gem can be found just south-east of the slate quarry, in a small forest beside the Derwent Reservoir.

1986 Ford Escort RS Turbo

This aged RS Turbo can be found high in the sky, west of the Glen Rannoch signage on the world map. Ascend among the highlands and head to the indicated location, which leads to a 1986 Ford Escort RS Turbo and a breathtaking view.

1993 Jaguar XJ220

One of our list's first true British classics is the 1993 Jaguar XJ220, offering a modern take on the timeless luxury of Jaguar design. Head down a small private road just east of Ambleside to find this vehicle's resting place.

1961 Jaguar E-Type S1

Heading south-east of Tarn Hows, players will stumble upon the 1961 Jaguar E-Type S1. This locale can be found nearby a small body of water, hidden among the depths of the trees.

1997 Lotus Elise GT1

Exploring the south-west forest surrounding the slate quarry will uncover the not-so-long-lost 1997 Lotus Elise GT1. Venturing only slightly away from the pit ledge will uncover this admired touring car, among the best of the barn find vehicles.

1966 MG MGB GT

Another British classic, the 1966 MG MGB GT, can be found deep in the fields of Astmoor. After driving to the designated location, follow the line of trees bordering the field to find the barn.

1965 Mini Cooper S

The 1965 Mini Cooper S can be found south-west of Derwent Water. Just off the waterside, the barn is among a small area of trees.

1998 Subaru Impreza 22B STI

This formidable rally car is found along the southern side of Lakehurst Forest, among dense foliage. You'll find a small opening containing the bar, unlocking the 1998 Subaru Impreza 22B STI.

1962 Triumph Spitfire

The 1962 Triumph Spitfire can be hard to find unless you know where to look. Head to the east side of the Express railyard, looking for a group of trees surrounding the barn.

1998 TVR Cerbera Speed 12

The Greendale Airstrip stows the 1998 TVR Cerbera Speed 12, located just east of the runway. Visiting the indicated location, find the barn running against a line of trees.

1930 Bentley Blower

The 1930 Bentley Blower is the hardest barn find to obtain in Forza Horizon 4, requiring some hefty playtime. This vehicle is a property exclusive, locked behind the purchase of "Bamburgh Castle" on the east coast. Priced at 10,000,000 CR, it requires some heavy investments to unlock the barn. However, once acquired, the barn is just a few meters down the coastline.

Summer Season Exclusive - 1962 Peel P50 (Summer exclusive)

Forza Horizon 4's dynamic seasons are a key draw of the new entry, meaning an ever-changing landscape every week. Summer-exclusive cars like the 1962 Peel P50 will return every four weeks on Friday. Once summer returns, head to the forest between Ashbrook and Uffington White Horse to uncover this tiny vehicle.

Autumn Season Exclusive - 1960 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato

Like other season-exclusive cars, the 1960 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato is only available in the autumn season. Just a short drive south of the Horizon Festival Site, this is an easy find once the season turns.

Winter Season Exclusive - 1973 Land Rover Range Rover

Unlocked when the snow hits the ground, the winter barn find is pretty easy to find. Head to the island in the middle of the now frozen Derwent Water and you'll find a lovely old Range Rover waiting for you.

Spring-exclusive barn find

We're also yet to see any information on Forza Horizon 4's spring barn find. We'll have more details once the season comes around.

Your thoughts

Which Forza Horizon 4 barn finds have you tracked down? Drop into the comments with your discoveries. Alternatively, Forza Horizon 4 is now available, starting at $59.99.

See at AmazonSee at Microsoft Store

Updated October 11, 2018: The winter barn find is now available so we've added all the details you need to find it!

Best answer: If you're looking to buy a Razer Phone 2 unlocked, the best places to go are Amazon and Razer.

• Amazon: Razer Phone 2 ($800)
• Razer: Razer Phone 2 ($800)

Buy it unlocked from Razer and Amazon

The two main stores where you can buy an unlocked Razer Phone 2 are Amazon and Razer's own retail page. Both are accepting preorders ahead of the expected October 26 availability, and both are selling at the RRP of $799.99.

Other retailers will likely join, such as local partners and carriers in launch territories, but right now hit one of these two stores to get your name in for an unlocked phone with no contract commitment.

The Razer Phone 2 will support Verizon in the U.S.

A question that many American phone buyers have when dealing with unlocked handsets is whether or not it will work with the Verizon Wireless network.

Razer has confirmed on its store that the Razer Phone 2 is both GSM and Verizon compatible in the U.S., so no worries there.

Choose Razer's store for accessory bundles

While both stores are selling the phone at the same price, Razer is the place to go if you want to snag some accessories to bundle with your phone. The official case, tempered glass screen protector and eventually, the Chroma wireless charging dock, are all listed in the Razer Store. (It's never a bad idea to get a case and screen protector right away.)

Currently, Amazon doesn't have these listed, so it's accessories you seek, you need to go the Razer route.

For gamers

Razer Phone 2

$800 from Amazon

A newer, shinier phone for gamers available from October 26.

The Razer Phone 2 is a little bit better than its predecessor in all the areas without hiking the price to ridiculous levels. And it'll support Verizon, if you need that.

With the October 2018 Xbox One Update, Microsoft now supports Dolby Vision HDR for media playback on Xbox One. But not for all TVs.

The Xbox One S and Xbox One X support HDR10 out of the box, allowing you to enjoy glorious colors and lighting on hundreds of television sets. However, not all TVs support the HDR10 standard.

Unfortunately for early adopters of Dolby Vision HDR sets, Xbox One had no support for the standard. Thanks to the October 2018 Xbox Update, that's set to change.

Across select TV sets, Xbox One S and X consoles now support Dolby Vision for media playback, and Microsoft is working with Dolby to expand this list of supported devices and, perhaps even functionality, in the near future.

Here's the full list of TV sets that support Dolby Vision on Xbox right now. We'll expand this list over time as we receive updates.

Related: Best 4K TVs for Xbox One

With Dolby Vision now available on Xbox One, it's easy to enable it on your console.

While the Xbox One X and Xbox One S have featured High Dynamic Range (HDR) support from launch, technical limitations have restrained both consoles. Adopting the open HDR10 standard, this brings enriched colors across supported content, with increased contrast ratios and a wider color gamut.

With the October 2018 Xbox Update, Microsoft is now debuting support for Dolby Vision, opening the console to a new range of HDR displays. If you have a compatible display, here's how to take full advantage with Xbox One.

Xbox One Dolby Vision HDR: Everything You Should Know

Getting started with Xbox One Dolby Vision

Dolby Vision has made its debut on modern Xbox One consoles, though it is currently limited to video playback. For now, Dolby Vision HDR support is tied to Netflix's library of compatible content, via the dedicated console app. While we expect extended functionality in the future, your console will initially be bound to these limitations.

To use Dolby Vision on Xbox One, you'll need to connect your console to a compatible display. Initial support is limited to a small range of TVs from LG, Sony, and Funai. To see if your TV is supported right now, check our roundup of displays that support Dolby Vision on Xbox One in 2018.

For a deeper dive into Dolby Vision HDR on Xbox One, don't miss our complete guide.

How to enable Dolby Vision HDR on Xbox One

After securing the right hardware, enabling Dolby Vision is relatively simple on the Xbox One. Diving into the console's advanced video settings, a single checkbox enables the feature. Just follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app on Xbox One.
2. Navigate to the Display & sound tab.
3. Select the Video output tile.
4. Select Video modes.
5. Enable the Allow Dolby Vision checkbox.
6. Restart your Xbox One console.

After following these steps, Dolby Vision is automatically enabled once supported content appears on-screen.

See Xbox One X at MicrosoftSee Xbox One X at Amazon

It's no doubt there are some games on your computer that are much easier playing with a controller. Windows 10 supports Xbox controllers natively, but what if all you've got is a PlayStation Dualshock controller instead? Thankfully there is a program out there that will convince your PC that you're actually using an Xbox controller. It's time to check out DS4 Windows.

Products used in this guide

• Amazon: Dualshock 4 Wireless Controller ($55)
• Amazon: Dell XPS 13 9370 Laptop ($1,400)
• winRAR: winRAR ($29)

How to install DS4 Windows on your PC

1. Go to DS4Windows.
2. Scroll down to Downloads.
3. Select "Main builds of DS4Windows".

4. Download the latest version.

5. Open the Zip file.

6. Right click the folder and select extract all files.

7. Name your file whatever you want and hit okay.
8. Go to the folder you extracted the files to.
9. Open DS4Windows.

10. Select if you would like the settings and profiles saved to a program folder or Appdata.

11. If you are using Windows 8, Windows 8.1, or Windows 10, select Step 1: Install the DS4 Driver.
12. If you are Windows 7 or below, select Step 2 to install the 360 driver.

So, there you have it. This will set you up to get the programs that you need that will allow your Dualshock controller to work with your computer. Continue on to see the different ways of connecting your Dualshock controller to your computer via Bluetooth or cables.

How to connect your PlayStation DualShock controller to your PC via USB

1. Connect your controller to your PC through the same USB cable used to connect to your PlayStation 4.
2. As soon as the pop-up comes up and says Windows has detected your device you can immediately get to playing.

How to connect your PlayStation DualShock controller to your PC via Bluetooth

1. Press and hold the central PlayStation button and the Share button until the lightbar on your controller flashes.
2. Open the Bluetooth settings on your PC.
3. Select "Wireless Controller".
4. If prompted to enter a pair code, type "0000".

PlayStation 4 controllers

DualShock

$55 at Amazon

Enjoy comfortable gaming

PlayStation controllers are one of the most comfortable controllers to use with their sleek design, amazing button placement, and touchscreen options. Now that the DS4 Windows application allows you to use this controller with your computer you can play your favorite games with ease.

HP-branded devices are hitting a Blue Screen of Death after installing the October Patch Tuesday on Windows 10. Here's how to fix this problem.

It appears that Microsoft is having some serious update quality control issues these days.

Shortly after the release of the Windows 10 October 2018 Update, users started reporting missing files after the upgrade, which forced the company to stop the distribution of the update. And now some users are reporting (via BleepingComputer) Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors after installing update KB4464330, which is the cumulative update that addresses the data loss problem.

According to several forums posts at the official Microsoft forums and on Reddit, some HP devices are crashing with the WDF_Violation error when trying to install the latest cumulative update. This problem isn't just happening on devices running the October 2018 Update but also on computers running the April 2018 Update (version 1803).

User Mikael Sillman, at the Microsoft forums, also reveals that the support team said that the company is investigating the problem, and it has temporarily paused the update on affected devices. However, if you're having this problem, there's a workaround that seems to be working for some users.

In this Windows 10 guide, we walk you through the steps to resolve the BSOD crashes after installing the October Patch Tuesday.

How to fix BSOD errors after installing the Windows 10 Patch Tuesday October update

To fix the problem the WDF_Violation error after installing update KB4464330 or KB4462919 on Windows 10, use these steps:

Warning: This isn't an official fix, but it appears that has helped several users to resolve the Blue Screen of Death on HP computers. Use these instructions at your own risk.

1. Start your computer.

   Quick Tip: If you're starting your device after the crash, it should go straight into Advanced Startup. If this is not the case, as soon as your device goes through the Power-On Self-Test (POST) and the Windows logo appears, press the power button. Repeat this process three times, and then your device should enter into the Advanced startup settings.

2. Click the Advanced startup button.

3. Click the Troubleshoot option.

4. Click on Advanced options.

5. Click the Command Prompt option.

6. Type the following command and press Enter:

   cd C:\Windows\System32\drivers

7. Type the following command and press Enter:

   ren HpqKbFiltr.sys HpqKbFiltr.sys.old

8. Type the following command and press Enter:

   exit

Once you complete these steps, restart your HP computer, and Windows 10 should start booting as expected.

More Windows 10 resources

For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10, visit the following resources:

• Windows 10 on Windows Central – All you need to know
• Windows 10 help, tips, and tricks
• Windows 10 forums on Windows Central

Want exclusive Rainbow Six Siege skins with your Twitch Prime subscription? Here's how.

Amazon-owned live-streaming website, Twitch, has kicked off a new promotion for Rainbow Six Siege, with a collection of free in-game loot up for grabs. Tied to its premium Twitch Prime subscription service, the partnership brings three installments of exclusive items across Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and PC.

Whether you're unsure about Twitch Prime or need help getting this limited-time loot, keep reading below.

See at Amazon

What is Twitch Prime and how do I get it?

If you're an Amazon Prime subscriber, you already have Twitch Prime. In countries where Amazon Prime is available, the subscription is required to use Twitch Prime features. In 2018, the service is available in the U.S., Mexico, Canada, Australia, Italy, France, Germany, Belgium, Austria, Spain, Japan, Netherlands, Luxembourg, Singapore, and the United Kingdom.

If Amazon Prime isn't available in your region, an active Prime Video subscription grants access to Twitch Prime. This service is available worldwide, except for China, India and "embargoed territories." No matter how you approach the promotion, an Amazon subscription is required for the skins.

If you haven't yet linked your Amazon account and your Twitch account, you need to do that first. Head to the Twitch Prime homepage linked below and follow the on-screen steps to complete this process.

If you don't yet have Amazon Prime, remember you can get a 30-day free trial.

Rainbow Six Siege Twitch Prime packs explained

The Rainbow Six Siege Twitch Prime collection is comprised of 17 exclusive cosmetic items, distributed in three randomized monthly installments. Spanning four playable Operators, uniforms, headgear, weapon skins, and weapon charms are available.

The Twitch Prime collection is split into monthly drops from September 2018 through November 2018. Rewards come in the form of "Twitch Prime packs," which each feature one randomized item from the collection. With no duplicates, all three Twitch Prime pack allocations grant access to the full set.

Kicking off the promotion, linking your Twitch Prime and Ubisoft accounts unlocks eight packs to open in-game. This is paired with a bonus legendary-tier "R6 Ultra Fanboy" weapon charm exclusive to the promotion. October's packs are now available, and additional packs will appear in-game to complete the Twitch Prime set in November.

While the 30-day free trial unlocks Twitch Prime Packs today, you'll need an active subscription until November 2018 for the set.

How to get Rainbow Six Siege Twitch Prime loot

With Twitch Prime, linking your Ubisoft accounts unlocks your first drop of Twitch Prime packs. PC players should use their Uplay account, while Xbox One and PlayStation 4 users should use a linked Ubisoft account. Once set-up, follow the below steps to claim your Twitch Prime loot.

1. Navigate to Rainbow Six Siege's Twitch Prime page.
2. Click Log In/Sign Up.
3. Sign in with your Twitch account.
4. Select Authorize to enable Twitch Prime Loot for your account.
5. Click Connect Your Ubisoft to Claim Your Loot.
6. Click Link when prompted to merge your Twitch and Ubisoft accounts.
7. Sign In with your Ubisoft account.
8. Click Confirm my account.
9. Select Click here to claim your exclusive items on Ubisoft Account.

With your accounts linked, eight Twitch Prime packs now await in Rainbow Six Siege. Future packs will be added automatically.

Rainbow Six Siege Twitch Prime complete skin list

Due to the randomized nature of Twitch Prime packs, you'll only gain access to eight cosmetic items in September 2018, and four in following months. We've wrapped up a complete list of available items, which unlocks over the coming months.

• R6 Ultra Fanboy weapon charm (Legendary)
• Hibana Red Highlight headgear (Rare)
• Hibana Red Highlight uniform (Epic)
• Hibana Mimesis Garnet for Type-89 (Rare)
• Hibana Red charm (Rare)
• Finka Orange Highlight headgear (Rare)
• Finka Orange Highlight uniform (Epic)
• Finka Mimesis Ember for SPEAR .308 (Rare)
• Finka Orange weapon charm (Rare)
• Ela Purple Highlight headgear (Rare)
• Ela Purple Highlight uniform (Epic)
• Ela Mimesis Garnet for Scorpion EVO 3 A1 (Rare)
• Ela Purple weapon charm (Rare)
• Bandit Green Highlight headgear (Rare)
• Bandit Green Highlight uniform (Epic)
• Bandit Mimesis Lime for MP7 (Rare)
• Bandit Green weapon charm (Rare)

Have you claimed your Rainbow Six Siege Twitch Prime loot? Drop into the comments section below with your favorite skins.

See at Amazon

Check out Windows Central's Rainbow Six Siege hub for in-depth coverage of upcoming content, latest updates, and tips to improve your gameplay.

Updated October 11, 2018: Refreshed following the release of October rewards.

Best answer: For light sketches and 2D artwork, yes. The Surface Go isn't the most powerful device out there, and the Surface Pen response isn't perfect. However, for sketches and even more detailed pieces in Photoshop, the Go will serve you well. If you need something more powerful, check out the new Surface Pro 6.

• Microsoft: Surface Go (from $400)
• Microsoft: Surface Pro 6 (from $899)

How does the Go stack up in the art world?

Testing out the 4GB Surface Go has been quite fun. Its small, light, and the refined rounded edges make it pleasant to hold versus some of the larger 2-in-1s out there. For art, it isn't perfect, but as long as you know what you're working with going in, you'll have a lot of fun with it.

The Surface Pen is often the subject of criticism among some more hardcore digital artists, but as a casual sketcher, I find it to be more than adequate to just sit down with and throw some paint up onto the screen in apps like Sketchable and Photoshop. Despite its lower-end specs, it runs Sketchable flawlessly, although some more complex pieces might take a little while to load initially when compared to a more powerful device. The same is true for Photoshop in that sense. I haven't found it to struggle with the software after the initial loading phase, although high resolution pieces with many layers may push the Surface Go to its upper limits.

Starting a quick monster drawing on Surface Go, blending and shading on Sketchable.

Where you might find some disappointment is in the display and pen itself. Owing to the hardware, the inking experience isn't as good as you might find on a Surface Pro or Surface Book, which sport co-processors to reduce latency between the pen and the screen. The difference is fairly noticeable, but not what I'd call awful. The latency means that, occasionally, the pen will continue producing ink even when it leaves the display. Even though it's only perhaps a couple of milliseconds, it'll be enough to annoy those of you who are particular about accuracy. Depending on your style, this could be a problem.

Additionally, inking on the glass display isn't as pleasant as you might experience on a dedicated drawing tablet like the Wacom Intuous, as the flex in the glass can produce wobbles in your lines. Although with some tweaking to the Surface Pen sensitivity in the settings, you'll be able to consistently improve the experience.

Bottom line is the Surface Go is a fun device to use for light art and sketching. With 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt support for shading and a massive amount of digital applications to choose from thanks to the power of full Windows, it's either a great device for getting started, or something fun for veterans who want something highly portable.

Surface Go for light art

While you won't be rendering movies or building complex 3D scenes, for 2D work in Photoshop or S-mode apps like Sketchable, Surface Go is a fun tool.

Our pick

Surface Go

From $400 at Microsoft

A digital sketchbook for $400.

The Surface Go isn't a powerhouse but it is a fun device. Priced at the affordable end while packing premium construction, the Surface Go lends itself well to light digital artistic pursuits from Sketchable all the way to Photoshop.

Surface Pro 6 for heavier lifting

If you're a more serious artist and want something a little more capable, consider the Surface Pro 6 instead. The Pro 6 comes with a co-processor which reduces inking latency considerably in some apps. Additionally, more complex art pieces, even up to 3D, would perform far better on the Pro 6's more beefy internals. That said, it's also significantly more pricey.

A more capable drawing tablet

Surface Pro 6

From $899 at Microsoft

Surface Pro is svelte and portable, and powerful.

If you want to ensure a higher-quality inking experience, the Surface Pro 6 has to be a consideration. While it is more than twice as expensive as Surface Go, it has a better inking response, while supporting taxing tasks and apps more capably.

Best answer: A Synology NAS is an excellent way of storing media and files, all of which can be accessed using OS file explorer software. The DS918+ is capable of handling SMB connections.

Amazon: Synology DS918+ ($539)

Transfer files to your NAS within Windows 10

Synology's OS for its NAS collection is DiskStation Manager (DSM for short), which offers a desktop-like experience in the browser for managing the NAS and all services and apps installed on the server. As well as allowing you to simply drag and drop files to transfer between your PC and the NAS through the web interface, Synology fully supports SMB, AFP, and NFS protocols.

It's really easy to enable these features, by visiting File Services > SMB/AFP/NFS in the Control Panel. After Server Message Block (SMB) is enabled, which essentially allows Windows, Mac, and Linux PCs to connect and access what's stored on the NAS, you'll be able to mount the server as a network drive within the file explorer suite.

We have a handy guide available to run you through mapping a Synology NAS for Windows 10 access. There are a whole host of settings to play around with to have everything set up and configured just how you'd like, so it's worth spending a good hour looking through the DSM Control Panel.

This process is highly recommended if you frequently find yourself transferring files to and from the NAS and would rather do it within Windows, much like you can with OneDrive. The DS918+ works flawlessly when integrated into Windows 10.

Our pick

Synology DS918+

$539 at Amazon

Great for storing lots of files.

All Synology NAS models come rocking DiskStation Manager OS, but the DS918+ is the ideal balance between performance and price for those seeking a four-bay solution with ample amounts of capacity.