affordability Archives

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.

Winsage

August 5, 2025

Microsoft announces end of support for Windows 11 SE

Microsoft announced that support for Windows 11 SE will end in October 2026. Windows 11 SE is designed for education, running on web-first devices with essential education apps and Microsoft Office 365 preinstalled. After version 24H2, no feature updates will be released, and support will cease, including software updates, technical assistance, and security fixes. While devices will continue to function, users are advised to transition to another edition of Windows 11 for ongoing support and security. Windows 11 SE was developed to compete with Chromebooks in the educational market but faced challenges due to its diminished user experience.

Winsage

August 5, 2025

Microsoft announces end of support for Windows 11 SE

Microsoft has announced that it will phase out Windows 11 SE, with support and updates ending in October 2026. Windows 11 SE was designed for educational environments and low-spec devices, featuring essential educational applications and Microsoft Office 365 (subscription required). The decision comes as Chromebooks gain popularity in the educational sector. Microsoft will not release any feature updates after version 24H2, and users are advised to transition to devices that support other editions of Windows 11 for continued support and security. The operating system has been criticized for its reduced functionality and user experience compared to standard laptops.

Winsage

August 3, 2025

Microsoft Quietly Confirms It’s Killing Off A Version Of Windows 11

Microsoft will phase out support for Windows 11 SE in October 2026, with no further feature updates following version 24H2. Devices running Windows 11 SE will continue to function but will not receive software updates, technical assistance, or security fixes after this date. The Surface Laptop SE, priced at 9, will not support the full version of Windows 11.

AppWizard

August 1, 2025

Today’s Android app deals and freebies: Dungeons of Dreadrock 2, Codenames, more

Google Play is offering significant price reductions on both digital offerings and tech hardware. Notable hardware discounts include a price drop on unlocked Galaxy S24 Ultra units, the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic available at a discount with a Amazon gift card, and a low-priced wireless Android Auto CarlinKit adapter on Amazon. Additionally, there are various app discounts available.

Winsage

August 1, 2025

Microsoft drops education-focused Windows 11 SE variant

Microsoft will discontinue support for Windows 11 SE in October 2026, as indicated by updates to its product overview page and FAQ. The final feature update for Windows 11 SE, version 24H2, has been released, marking the beginning of a phase-out. Windows 11 SE was launched in 2021 as a cloud-based operating system aimed at the education sector, alongside the budget-friendly Surface SE laptop. The Surface SE does not support operating system upgrades, complicating the transition for schools using this hardware. Microsoft is shifting its strategy to promote the full version of Windows 11 for educational environments, moving away from direct competition with Chromebooks.

Winsage

August 1, 2025

Microsoft Ends Windows 11 SE: Support Ceases in 2026

Microsoft launched Windows 11 SE in late 2021 to compete with Google’s Chrome OS in the education technology sector, targeting low-cost devices for schools with a starting price around . The operating system was designed for Chromebook-like laptops, featuring restrictions on app installations to focus on educational tools and integration with Microsoft services like Office 365. Initial interest was noted, but adoption faced challenges due to schools' commitments to Chromebooks and limited app compatibility. By 2022, devices with Windows 11 SE appeared in schools, but market penetration remained modest, hindered by hardware requirements and competition from Chromebooks. Microsoft announced the discontinuation of Windows 11 SE in 2025, with support ending in October 2026, necessitating migration for schools using the OS. This decision reflects a strategic shift towards cloud-based solutions and highlights the challenges of competing against established platforms like Chrome OS.

AppWizard

July 25, 2025

In honor of Ozzy Osbourne, Double Fine is giving its heavy metal action game Brutal Legend away for free for 666 minutes

Double Fine Productions is offering its game Brutal Legend as a free download for 666 minutes, starting at 4 PM PT on July 23, 2025, and ending at 3 AM PT on July 24, 2025. The game features Jack Black and voice performances from heavy metal artists, including Ozzy Osbourne, who voices the Guardian of Metal. Players can access the game on itch.io. If missed, the game has been known to go on sale, with its lowest price recorded at .49.

BetaBeacon

July 16, 2025

YouTuber faces jail time for showing off Android-based gaming handhelds

Italian YouTuber Once Were Nerd is facing legal issues for showcasing handheld gaming devices with pre-loaded copyrighted game ROMs, leading to potential criminal charges and the risk of his channel being shut down.

AppWizard

July 12, 2025

Co-op climbing game, PEAK, has sold 5 million copies

Aggro Crab and Landfall's co-op climbing game, PEAK, has sold over 5 million copies since its launch on June 16th, achieving this milestone in under a month. The game is priced at €7.49, making it accessible to a wide audience of PC gamers. PEAK features four distinct biomes with various survival items and encourages cooperative gameplay. The recent patch v1.7 reintroduced item interaction, adjusted balance mechanics, and fixed several bugs. The game is built on the Unity Engine with minimum PC requirements of an Intel Core i5 at 2.5 GHz, 8GB of RAM, and an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 or AMD Radeon RX 6600 XT. It has gained popularity through word-of-mouth and community engagement on platforms like YouTube and Twitch.