certification Archives

Winsage

November 3, 2024

Windows Server 2025 supports CPUs packing two to 192 cores — CPU support list spans Pentium chips to Xeon and EPYC parts

Microsoft has unveiled the CPU support list for Windows Server 2025, which includes a range of processors. The Intel CPU support features second through fifth generation Xeon Scalable Processors (SP) built on the Emerald Rapids, Sapphire Rapids, Ice Lake, and Cascade Lake architectures, as well as the Xeon D series based on Ice Lake, the Xeon E-series utilizing Raptor Lake, and the Xeon 6 series derived from Granite Rapids. Additionally, the list includes the Pentium G7400 and G7400T processors, which are Alder Lake-based dual-core chips. For AMD, Windows Server 2025 supports all modern EPYC-based CPUs from Zen 2 to Zen 5, including the AMD EPYC 7002, 7003, 4004, 8004, 9004, and 9005 series. Microsoft has not included any mainstream consumer Ryzen processors in its support list. The list of supported processors is a prerequisite for system certification, and only systems with the specified CPUs can be certified to operate Windows Server 2025. Microsoft plans to update this list over time to include additional CPUs.

Winsage

November 3, 2024

Microsoft shares full list of Windows Server 2025 supported CPUs, includes Pentium too

Microsoft has launched Windows Server 2025 and System Center 2025, along with an updated list of supported CPUs. The supported Intel processors include: - Xeon Scalable Processors (SP) from 2nd to 5th Generation - Xeon 6 SP - Xeon E series (23xx and 24xx) - Xeon D series (17xx, 18xx, 21xx, 27xx, 28xx) - Modern Pentium chips such as G7400 and G7400T The supported AMD processors include: - EPYC 7002 series - EPYC 7003 series - EPYC 8004 series - EPYC 9004 and 9005 series The list of supported CPUs is a prerequisite for system certification, and Microsoft will continue to update it as new processors become available.

Tech Optimizer

October 22, 2024

Avira Free Security

Antivirus protection for personal computers is crucial, and free tools like Avira Free Security offer antivirus capabilities along with features such as a VPN, password management, and ad blocking. However, it lacks a typical security suite experience, missing components like firewall protection, backup, and spam filtering, with many features reserved for paying customers. Alternatives include Avast One Essential for a more streamlined free suite and AVG AntiVirus Free for basic protection, both recognized as Editors' Choice winners. Avira operates under Gen Digital, which includes brands like Avast, AVG, LifeLock, and Norton. The company has undergone several acquisitions since 2016, culminating in Norton acquiring Avast/AVG in 2021. These brands utilize four distinct antivirus engines, with efforts underway to develop a unified engine. Avira's installation process is user-friendly, prompting users to run a Smart Scan after installation. The Smart Scan checks for malware, evaluates privacy settings, identifies performance enhancements, flags apps needing updates, and scans for network threats. In independent lab tests, Avira received perfect or near-perfect scores from three labs, achieving a perfect score of 18 points from AV-Test Institute. It secured Advanced+ ratings from AV-Comparatives and passed tests for banking Trojans and general malware defense from MRG-Effitas. In personal testing, Avira quarantined 73% of curated malware samples, detecting 97% overall, earning a score of 9.3 out of 10. It successfully eradicated all ransomware samples but fell short compared to competitors in overall malware detection. Avira achieved a perfect score of 100% in phishing URL detection, ranking it among the top contenders in phishing protection. Its security features include virus scans, quarantine management, and software updates, though some features require an upgrade to Avira Prime. The privacy suite includes a browser safety extension, VPN with limited functionality, password manager, and file shredder. The performance features aim to optimize system efficiency but are often tied to the separate Avira System Speedup application, which promotes premium features.

Tech Optimizer

October 14, 2024

Postgres Professional to invest in Deckhouse Developer

The AK&M Information Agency was established by CJSC Analysis, Consulting and Marketing and has been active since its inception. It holds a mass media registration certificate (El no. FS77-44607) issued on April 15, 2011, by Russia's Roskomnadzor. The agency is headquartered at ul. Gubkina 3, Moscow 119333, and is led by Editor-in-Chief Yulia Efremova. The agency's contact number is 7(499) 132-61-30, and its fax number is +(499) 132-69-18. Inquiries can be made via email at postmail@akm.ru. The website may contain content rated 16+, and reproduction of materials requires prior consent. The agency's latest release number is 10081, dated October 9, 2024.

Tech Optimizer

October 10, 2024

The 10 Best Antivirus Solutions With VPN for 2024

The text provides a detailed overview of the top 10 antivirus tools that include VPN capabilities, highlighting their features, pricing, and pros and cons. The antivirus solutions listed are: 1. TotalAV: Best overall with smart scanning and a robust VPN; priced at .25/month (annual plan). 2. Nord Threat Protection: Premium protection against online trackers; priced at .99/month (two-year plan). 3. Norton: AI-enabled antivirus with a powerful VPN; priced at .33/month (one-year plan). 4. Surfshark One: Lightweight antivirus with extensive VPN locations; priced at .69/month (two-year plan). 5. TrendMicro: Strong antivirus and VPN functionality, ideal for secure online transactions; priced at .58/month (annual plan). 6. ESET: Great antivirus and VPN with parental control features; priced at .50/month (annual plan). 7. Avast: Best free antivirus software with real-time protection and a limited VPN; free version available. 8. Intego: Efficient antivirus and VPN designed for Apple Mac users; priced at .50/month (two-year plan). 9. Panda Dome: Powerful antivirus and VPN for an unlimited number of devices; priced at .99/month with a 30-day free trial. 10. Malwarebytes: User-friendly antivirus and VPN combination; priced at .00/month (annual plan) with a 14-day free trial. Each product is evaluated based on its standout features, starting price, availability of a free version, and specific strengths and weaknesses. The text also explains the differences between antivirus software and VPNs, emphasizing the importance of both for comprehensive online security and privacy.

Tech Optimizer

October 9, 2024

A Full NordVPN Threat Protection Review — Features, Pricing, Alternatives

NordVPN Threat Protection offers two versions: Threat Protection and Threat Protection Pro. Threat Protection is a DNS-based tool that blocks ads, trackers, and harmful websites while connected to a NordVPN server, available on multiple devices including Android, iOS, and Linux. Threat Protection Pro is a more advanced version for Windows and macOS, providing protection even without an active VPN connection. Pros of Threat Protection include its bundling with NordVPN, a 30-day money-back guarantee, effective malware site blocking, an ad blocker, and advanced URL trimming. However, the Pro version is limited to Windows and macOS, consumes more system resources, and lacks support for mobile devices. Threat Protection Pro features include web protection, ad blocking, web tracker blocking, file protection, vulnerability detection, and URL trimming. It excels at blocking malicious websites and phishing domains, scanning downloads for malware, and identifying risky applications. Pricing for Threat Protection Pro varies by plan, with the Basic plan not including it, while the Plus and Ultimate plans do. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Threat Protection Pro has received favorable reviews for its integration with NordVPN, though some users have reported glitches, particularly on Mac. It is recommended for desktop users seeking additional security without full antivirus software.

AppWizard

September 27, 2024

Teach cybersecurity with Microsoft and Minecraft Education | Microsoft Education Blog

Educators worldwide are utilizing Microsoft resources during Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2024 to enhance their understanding of cybersecurity and teach students about online safety. The theme for this October is “Secure Our World,” with various resources available, including conversation starters and immersive experiences like Minecraft Education worlds. Key points for discussing phishing with students include avoiding unknown links, being cautious with QR codes, recognizing social engineering tactics, and identifying red flags in phishing messages. The Minecraft Education Cyber and Digital Citizenship collection offers age-appropriate lessons on cybersecurity, divided into four bands: CyberSafe (ages 7-11), Cyber Fundamentals (ages 10-14), Cyber Expert (ages 13-18), and Cyber Defense (ages 14-18, 18 and older). Microsoft also provides mentorship opportunities, scholarships for cybersecurity degrees, and free certification for eligible students. To improve their cybersecurity skills, educators can access training modules from Microsoft that cover common threats, best practices for protecting personal information, and strategies for teaching cybersecurity concepts. By participating in Cybersecurity Awareness Month, educators aim to empower students to become informed and responsible digital citizens.

Tech Optimizer

September 24, 2024

MSSP Market News: Bitdefender Debuts Hardening and Attack Surface Tech

Bitdefender has introduced GravityZone Proactive Hardening and Attack Surface Reduction (PHASR) technology, which adapts security policies based on user behaviors. Integrity360 launched Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM) as a Service in partnership with XM Cyber to help organizations manage cybersecurity risks. EC-Council released the Certified Ethical Hacker CEH v13, enhanced with AI capabilities for ethical hacking training. Rapid7 expanded its Managed Threat Complete solution to include third-party detections from CrowdStrike, SentinelOne, and Microsoft. DigiCert acquired Vercara, enhancing its cloud-based security services. ArmorCode added new modules for penetration testing management to its Application Security Posture Management platform. Chenega Corporation and CyberSheath achieved a perfect score on the Joint Surveillance Voluntary Assessment (JSVA), crucial for CMMC 2.0 compliance.

Winsage

September 5, 2024

Windows 11 AI features are coming to Intel PCs this November – gHacks Tech News

The 2024 feature update for Windows 11 is currently available for ARM-based Copilot+ PCs, with no clear timeline for broader access. Intel will launch its Lunar Lake processors in October 2024, promising improved performance, power efficiency, and graphics capabilities, while maintaining application compatibility and enhancing security and AI computing power. Intel's Core Ultra 200V series processors will support Copilot+ PC features, with a free update expected in November. Two potential timelines for the Windows 11 feature update include a late September optional release or a late October release with wider availability in November. Intel's processors will officially launch on September 24, 2024, with over 20 manufacturers preparing compatible devices. Key features of the new processors include enhanced performance in ultra-thin designs, extended battery life, integrated security, built-in Intel Arc graphics, rapid connectivity through Wi-Fi 7, support for multiple monitor connections, instant wake capabilities, and sustainability certification. Benchmarks for these processors are anticipated in September, while AMD has not yet announced a launch date for its Strix Point processors.

Winsage

September 5, 2024

AMD and Intel are finally getting the Copilot+ treatment

Microsoft announced that its Copilot+ features will be available for AMD and Intel laptops starting in November 2024, following an exclusive launch on Qualcomm devices. Any AMD and Intel PCs that meet the minimum requirements will receive these AI enhancements through free updates to Windows 11. The processors that support Copilot+ include AMD's Ryzen AI 300 and Intel's Lunar Lake, both of which have a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) capable of at least 45 Tera Operations Per Second (TOPS). Key features of Copilot+ include Live Captions with translation, image generation tools in Microsoft Paint, AI enhancements in the Photos app, and Windows Studio Effects for video calls. The Recall feature, which tracks user activity for context-aware responses, is expected to launch for Windows Insiders in October, with a broader release planned for November. Intel's Lunar Lake NPU can achieve 50 TOPS, while AMD's Ryzen AI 300 CPUs are claimed to have the fastest NPU available.