add-ons Archives

Tech Optimizer

April 15, 2026

Bitdefender Total Security

Bitdefender Total Security includes features such as a network security inspector, advanced ransomware defense, a hardened browser, and an active Do Not Track system. It offers a two-tier pricing model: an individual subscription for .99 per year for five licenses and a family subscription for .99 for 25 licenses, which includes parental controls. The software features an interface similar to Bitdefender Antivirus Plus, with user-configurable buttons for quick access to features. It boasts high scores from independent antivirus testing labs and excels in malware protection and antiphishing tests. Bitdefender includes a SecurePass password manager, firewall protection, spam filtering, webcam protection, and cryptomining protection. The parental control features allow parents to manage their children's online activities, but they may not be as effective as dedicated solutions. Bitdefender Total Security provides protection for macOS and Android, with high ratings for its performance on these platforms. The Android app includes malware scanning, web protection, and anti-theft features. The Bitdefender Central app allows users to manage their security settings from mobile devices.

AppWizard

April 9, 2026

Project Zomboid bans rogue mods deploying “malicious code” to players’ PCs

The Indie Stone has removed a series of malicious mods associated with the 'True Moozic' soundtrack expander for Project Zomboid, which were found to generate harmful files outside the game’s directory. These mods were not linked to their original creator and have been taken down from the Steam Workshop. The developer banned the individual responsible for these uploads and advised players who downloaded the affected mods to take security precautions. A total of 14 mods from the same user were identified, with installations estimated between 500 and 2,200. The Indie Stone clarified that the exploit was limited to Build 42 branches and emphasized that the malicious uploads were unauthorized and not part of the True Moozic mod. Additionally, they released a security update for Build 41 to address a separate vulnerability, which has not been found to be exploited. The 'outdated unstable' branch has also been updated to ensure it remains one content update behind the 'unstable' branch.

AppWizard

April 9, 2026

Marketplace Content April 2026

Embracing a monstrous persona can help overcome Writer's Block, as demonstrated by using playful attire such as Monster Invading Hands, Monster Invading Feet, Dark Monster Head, Dark Monster Tentacles, Monster Invade Hoodie, and Monster Pants. Subscribing to Realms Plus or Marketplace Pass on a Minecrafting device offers access to various content, with Realms Plus providing a personal server for up to ten friends and Marketplace Pass catering to individual players. An in-game counter will inform users of any changes to the catalog, and reactivation or separate purchase is required if a Marketplace Pass membership lapses or an add-on is removed.

AppWizard

April 1, 2026

Minecraft Gets New Deluxe And Ultimate Bundles – More Content, More Coins, More Creativity

Mojang has released two new bundles for Minecraft: the Deluxe Collection (£24.99) and the Ultimate Collection (£31.99). These bundles are available on Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, PC, and mobile. The Deluxe Collection includes Minecraft, three add-ons (Celebration Food, Rescue Dogs, and Plenty O’ Blocks), three exclusive Character Creator items, and 700 Minecoins. The Ultimate Collection includes everything in the Deluxe Collection plus two additional add-ons (Decocraft and Weapons + Tools), five exclusive Character Creator items, and 1000 Minecoins. The Deluxe Collection is designed for players seeking a solid starter pack, while the Ultimate Collection is for those wanting more tools, content, and currency from the beginning. Both bundles offer better value compared to purchasing content separately.

Tech Optimizer

March 28, 2026

Don’t miss out: Bitdefender, One of the World’s Best Antiviruses, Is Now on Sale

Bitdefender is known for its effective early threat detection and elimination, reflected in high scores from independent lab evaluations. The current deal offers the complete all-in-one security suite at a competitive price, allowing users to upgrade from standard protection. Bitdefender operates in the background, providing real-time scanning of files, links, and downloads for safe browsing. The suite includes virus detection, web protection, ransomware defenses, a built-in VPN, a password manager, and anti-tracking capabilities. It offers proactive protection, such as scanning downloads on public Wi-Fi to prevent security risks. Bitdefender is resource-efficient, allowing users to run it without significant impact on system performance. The current sale makes it easier to justify moving from free tools to a comprehensive solution, especially given the sensitivity of information stored on devices.

Winsage

March 20, 2026

How I’ve improved Windows 11 with a 30-year-old tool

Microsoft PowerToys is a utility that enhances the Windows experience with additional features. It was first introduced with Windows 95, revived in 2019 as an open-source tool, and is available for free download from the Microsoft Store or GitHub. Key features of PowerToys include: - Pin important windows on top: Users can pin active windows above others using the shortcut Win+Ctrl+T, allowing for better focus on key tasks. - Resize images: The Image Resizer tool allows users to resize images to specific dimensions through right-click options, with presets for Fill, Fit, or Stretch. - Extract text from the screen: The Text Extractor uses Optical Character Recognition (OCR) to copy text directly from anywhere on the screen by selecting the area with Win+T. - Control multiple computers: The Mouse Without Borders feature enables users to control up to four computers with a single set of peripherals and share clipboard and files. - Customize shortcuts: The Keyboard Manager allows users to remap keys and shortcuts, though some keys are reserved for system functions. - Batch rename files: PowerRename enables users to rename multiple files at once through a right-click option, with a preview of changes. - Thumbnail and preview pane previews: PowerToys enhances file previews in File Explorer for additional file types and adds thumbnail support for files that Windows Explorer does not natively generate thumbnails for. - Crop and Lock: This feature allows users to crop application windows to focus on specific content, with two modes: Thumbnail mode for static previews and Reparent mode for functional cropped windows. PowerToys continues to be a valuable tool for enhancing productivity on Windows.

Winsage

March 5, 2026

Windows 12 could arrive this year with rumored heavy AI focus — and the hate is strong already

Windows 12 is speculated to launch as early as late 2026, coinciding with the expiration of extended support for Windows 10. Rumors suggest it may feature a modular structure, allowing user customization, and will integrate artificial intelligence as a core component. Community reactions have been largely critical, particularly regarding the potential for a subscription model for AI features. There are doubts about whether Microsoft can effectively launch a new version while addressing issues in Windows 11. Additionally, the next iteration may not be called Windows 12, with possibilities of names like Windows AI or Windows Copilot to reflect its AI focus.

AppWizard

March 3, 2026

Minecraft Update 3.33 Released for Bedrock Edition 26.3

Minecraft Bedrock Edition 26.3 was launched on March 2, recognized as update 3.33 for console gamers. The update includes fixes for a localization issue with items from the Mounts of Mayhem drop (MCPE-235956) and a crash that could occur when loading a world or Realm. A previous patch addressed an issue with add-ons that could cause crashes or missing textures (MCPE-235929).

AppWizard

March 2, 2026

Minecraft Bedrock 26.3 Released on March 2 Applies Update 1.043

Mojang released a new title update for Minecraft on March 2, known as Bedrock edition 26.3, available for download on consoles as Minecraft update 1.043 (complete version 1.043.000). The update addresses several important issues to enhance game performance, including: - Fixing the localization of certain items from the Mounts of Mayhem drop (MCPE-235956). - Resolving a crash that could occur when loading a world or Realm. - A previous patch corrected an issue with add-ons that could lead to crashes or missing textures (MCPE-235929). The update has not yet been released for last-generation consoles, specifically the PS4 and Xbox One, but this is expected to change soon.

AppWizard

February 27, 2026

Grim Dawn marks its 10th anniversary with a triumphal update on its final expansion: ‘Grim Dawn will not be going out with a bang, it will be a tremendous roar’

Grim Dawn, developed by Crate Entertainment, was initially planned for a 2011 launch but was released in 2016. The game has received a "very positive" rating from nearly 88,000 user reviews on Steam. As of February 25, it celebrates its 10th anniversary. Crate Entertainment has announced an upcoming expansion titled Fangs of Asterkarn, set to release in 2024, which will include a new mastery, an elevated difficulty mode, and a new land mass that is 76% the size of the original game. This expansion will feature over 60 bosses and mini-bosses, more than 370 unique items, 116 "Monster Infrequents," eight new Nemesis monsters, and three Super Bosses, along with a new alchemy system and an "Ascendant" game mode. The exact release date for Fangs of Asterkarn has not been announced, but it will conclude Grim Dawn's journey.