add-on Archives

Tech Optimizer

August 15, 2025

Best Free Antivirus Software for 2025 | Top Picks & Reviews

eSecurity Planet maintains an editorially independent stance regarding content and product recommendations, with potential revenue generated from partner links. In 2025, the landscape of free antivirus software includes notable options such as: - Bitdefender Antivirus Free: - Best for users seeking reliable, hands-off protection. - Pros: High malware detection scores, minimal system impact, clean interface, automatic updates, low false-positive rate. - Cons: No control over advanced settings, no firewall or password manager. - Avast One Essentials: - Best for users wanting all-in-one protection. - Pros: Real-time protection, limited VPN and firewall, device cleanup tools, modern dashboard, multi-platform compatibility. - Cons: VPN limited to 5 GB per week, scrutiny over data privacy. - AVG AntiVirus Free: - Best for users preferring a classic interface. - Pros: Excellent malware protection, performance scan tool, file shredder, custom scan scheduling, fewer ads. - Cons: No VPN or firewall, outdated user interface. - Malwarebytes Free: - Best for users needing to clean infected devices. - Pros: Exceptional at scanning for rootkits, fast scan times, effective against ransomware, simple interface, low false positive rate. - Cons: No real-time protection, not a standalone solution. - McAfee (Free Trial): - Best for users wanting to test full-suite protection. - Pros: Access to full suite, protects multiple devices, clean interface, strong anti-phishing scores. - Cons: Trial expires after 30 days, may slow down older systems. The evaluation methodology focused on protection, usability, performance, free value, and trust to highlight effective free antivirus software. The top recommendations include Bitdefender Antivirus Free, Avast One Essentials for feature set, and Malwarebytes Free as an essential add-on.

Tech Optimizer

August 15, 2025

The best antivirus software 2025

Antivirus software enhances security for desktop PCs, laptops, and mobile devices, protecting against threats like phishing, ransomware, and malware. Modern solutions provide alerts for untrusted websites and conduct regular scans. Bitdefender Total Security is recommended as the top antivirus, compatible with multiple platforms and offering features like anti-phishing protection and a built-in VPN. Norton Antivirus Plus provides real-time protection for one device and includes a firewall and cloud backup. McAfee offers antivirus protection across various platforms with additional features like a VPN and password manager. Surfshark provides basic antivirus functionality within its VPN packages. ESET Protect is tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, offering customizable security solutions. AVG offers a robust free antivirus option with thorough scanning capabilities. Prices for these antivirus solutions vary, with some offering free plans and others requiring annual subscriptions.

AppWizard

August 15, 2025

Telkomsel, Nuon & Bango Bring Microsoft PC Game Pass to Indonesian Gamers

Telkomsel, Nuon, and Bango have partnered to provide affordable access to Microsoft PC Game Pass for Indonesian gamers, with subscriptions starting at IDR 63,063 per month. The service, available through the IndiHome Add-On, offers hundreds of high-quality PC games, including day-one releases from major developers and an EA Play membership. New titles such as Valorant, Minecraft, and Call of Duty will be included. Users can subscribe via the IndiHome Add-On landing page, with the fee added to their monthly bill. The first 500 users can access a promotion for a free first month starting August 14, 2025. Key executives from the companies emphasized the partnership's role in enhancing digital lifestyle services and broadening access to premium gaming content in Indonesia.

AppWizard

August 14, 2025

Telkomsel, Nuon, and Bango bring convenient and affordable Microsoft PC Game Pass access to Indonesian gamers, strengthening their digital gaming experience

Bango PLC has partnered with Telkomsel and Nuon Digital Indonesia to launch Microsoft PC Game Pass through the IndiHome Add-On in Indonesia. For a monthly fee starting at IDR 63,063, subscribers can access a library of premium PC games, including new releases from major publishers and an EA Play membership. The collaboration aims to enhance the gaming experience and broaden access to quality gaming content. Subscribers can activate the PC Game Pass via the IndiHome Add-On landing page, with the fee included in their monthly bill. A promotion for the first 500 users offers a free first month starting August 14, 2025, with automatic renewal at the standard price thereafter.

Tech Optimizer

August 7, 2025

The best VPNs with antivirus of 2025: Expert tested and reviewed

A virtual private network (VPN) combined with antivirus software provides enhanced security for online and offline activities by creating encrypted tunnels that protect privacy and mask online behavior. In the UK, users increasingly adopt VPNs to bypass strict age verification checks. Key benefits of using a VPN include IP address disguise, data encryption, and access to geo-restricted content. The best VPN with antivirus currently recommended is the Surfshark One security suite, which offers a robust VPN experience and effective antivirus capabilities. Other notable VPNs with antivirus features include NordVPN, Private Internet Access (PIA), and CyberGhost, each with unique strengths and pricing structures. Surfshark allows unlimited device connections, offers a seven-day free trial, and has a 30-day money-back guarantee. It features IP masking, automated antivirus protection, and a user-friendly app. NordVPN is known for high-speed performance and robust antimalware features, allowing up to 10 simultaneous connections. PIA offers customizable settings and unlimited connections, while CyberGhost is optimized for streaming and allows connections on up to seven devices. Each service has specific pricing, trial periods, and user ratings across various platforms.

AppWizard

August 6, 2025

Minecraft x Sonic – Official Sonic Add-On Super Update Trailer

The Sonic Add-On pack for Minecraft has been released, allowing players to gather Chaos Emeralds and face Dr. Eggman. Players can transform into Super Sonic and Super Shadow, gaining powerful abilities. The add-on is designed to appeal to both Minecraft and Sonic fans.

AppWizard

August 6, 2025

Sonic The Hedgehog’s Minecraft DLC Scores A ‘Super Update’ This Week

Minecraft has launched the 'Super Update' for its Sonic the Hedgehog collaboration, allowing players to collect Chaos Emeralds, confront Dr. Eggman, and transform into Super Sonic and Super Shadow. The Sonic DLC has added iconic zones, characters, abilities, and adversaries to Minecraft. Sonic is also set to appear in a new title, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, and has a collaboration with Timberland footwear.

Winsage

August 4, 2025

Millions still cling to Windows 10 as end of support looms

Windows 11 has a market share of 53.51 percent, while Windows 10's share is 42.88 percent, according to Statcounter data. Microsoft will cease support for Windows 10 in less than three months, yet many PCs remain on this older version. Organizations face challenges in transitioning to Windows 11 due to legacy applications and hardware incompatibilities. The Extended Security Update (ESU) program is seen as a temporary solution, and while consumers can secure a complimentary year of ESU, corporate customers using Microsoft 365 do not have this option. There are no plans from Microsoft to offer free ESUs for Windows 10. Despite the impending end of support, Windows 10 is expected to remain significant in enterprise planning for months or years to come.

Winsage

July 29, 2025

Windows 11 is getting a multi-monitor feature it’s been missing for years

Windows 11 has sparked discussions among users regarding its functionality compared to Windows 10, particularly concerning the taskbar's placement, which some find restrictive. A third-party add-on currently allows users to position the taskbar at the top of their monitors. Users have also expressed frustration with the Notification Center, which shows notifications and calendar events only on the primary screen. The latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build (Dev Channel KB5062669) introduces the ability to view the Notification Center on secondary monitors, a feature that was previously available in Windows 10. This change appears to be a response to user feedback. Other enhancements in this build include a grid view for the Start Menu search bar and updates to reduce initial spam upon booting. Users are hopeful for further customization options, such as natively positioning the taskbar at the top.

AppWizard

July 22, 2025

Nifty Chrome add-on shows which Steam games are already on Game Pass

Michael has a decade of experience in technology journalism, specializing in keyboard technology at PCWorld. He has contributed to publications like Android Police, Digital Trends, Wired, Lifehacker, and How-To Geek, and has covered major industry events such as CES and Mobile World Congress. He lives in Pennsylvania and enjoys outdoor activities, including kayaking.