coverage Archives

Tech Optimizer

August 21, 2025

The Best Antivirus for Gaming PCs in 2025: 6 Top Picks Compared

McAfee has enhanced its offerings for gaming PCs, providing robust real-time protection and firewall capabilities that block threats without affecting performance. The Gamer Security version is now integrated within McAfee+ tiers and prioritizes CPU resources during gaming sessions. However, it uses more system resources compared to alternatives like Malwarebytes and Panda Dome, and some features, such as VPN and identity monitoring, are only available in higher-tier plans. The McAfee plans include: - McAfee Free Tools: Limited tools like web protection and password manager trials (Free) - McAfee+ Premium Individual: Real-time protection, VPN, password manager (.99 first year) - McAfee+ Advanced Individual: Adds identity monitoring and personal data cleanup (.99 first year) - McAfee+ Unlimited Individual: Adds identity theft coverage and security freeze tools (.99 first year) Key considerations for antivirus software for gaming PCs include performance impact, robust threat detection, dedicated gaming mode, resource usage, false positives, user interface, cross-device security, and customer support. Gaming PCs are susceptible to malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks, making reliable antivirus solutions essential. Panda Dome is highlighted as a suitable option for gamers, offering real-time protection, a dedicated gaming mode, and minimal resource usage. Free antivirus options can be used while gaming but may lack advanced features. It is not advisable to disable antivirus software during gaming, and running antivirus can slightly reduce FPS. Gaming mode enhances the gaming experience by pausing background scans and notifications. The best antivirus for gaming should have real-time protection, low resource usage, a gaming mode, robust threat detection, ransomware protection, a VPN, and password managers. Some antivirus software may block online game servers, but most have an allowlist function. Streamers should also use antivirus software while live to protect against additional risks. Antivirus programs can detect cheat software or malicious mods, especially if they contain malware.

AppWizard

August 21, 2025

Google is expanding a key anti-theft feature to make your apps more secure

Android's Identity Check feature will be enhanced in the Android 16 QPR2 update, requiring biometric-only authentication for apps using the biometric prompt, eliminating screen lock credentials as a fallback. This aims to improve security for sensitive applications by preventing unauthorized access, particularly in untrusted environments. The update expands Identity Check to more applications, ensuring that access necessitates biometric verification. Users can activate this feature through Settings on their Pixel devices. Future updates may allow the use of a smartwatch as a trusted unlock mechanism, bypassing biometric authentication when connected.

Tech Optimizer

August 20, 2025

App modernization: Open, scalable platforms fuel AI

App modernization is now essential for enterprises to remain competitive, moving away from traditional systems to open cloud-native architectures, with Postgres becoming a key element of modern data strategies. Experts from AMD, EnterpriseDB, Supermicro, and Lightbits Labs discussed the importance of open standards, particularly Postgres and Kubernetes, in adapting to AI-driven transformations. High-performance block storage is crucial for low latency and high throughput in Postgres workloads, with Lightbits Labs demonstrating significant transaction capabilities. This integrated stack can lead to energy savings and improved data center efficiency. Kubernetes is also vital for enhancing application portability and scalability, with IT vendors focusing on seamless integration and lifecycle support. The demand for optimized hardware for AI applications is increasing, as enterprises seek comprehensive infrastructure solutions for deployment across various environments.

Tech Optimizer

August 20, 2025

I tested the best antivirus software for Windows: Here’s what I’d use to protect my PC

Windows Security is a free antivirus program pre-installed on every Windows PC, offering solid protection. Bitdefender provides a comprehensive antivirus solution with a yearly subscription. Malwarebytes is recommended as the top antivirus choice for Windows users, featuring a user-friendly interface and both free and paid versions. TotalAV is an affordable option with a built-in VPN and system tune-up tool. McAfee Total Protection offers extensive features, including identity theft coverage. Avast One is designed for gamers, providing a Do Not Disturb mode. uBlock Origin is an ad blocker that enhances browser security, while Brave is a secure web browser with built-in tracking and ad blocking features.

Tech Optimizer

August 18, 2025

I’m a security editor, and this is the antivirus I would buy with my own money

McAfee + Premium is chosen as an antivirus solution for a household with eight devices, covering Windows, Android, iOS, and Chrome OS. It offers unlimited device coverage and a reasonable pricing structure. Key features include a VPN, password manager, identity monitoring, personal data cleanup, file shredder, malicious website identification, and enhanced social media privacy controls. In independent testing, McAfee achieved a 99.96% score in the AV-Comparatives evaluation and a perfect score in the AV Test report, though it had 15 false positives. The user interface is clean and intuitive, making it easy for all family members to use. McAfee + Premium also provides 24/7 chat and tech support.

AppWizard

August 17, 2025

One of the devs behind System Shock and Thief wants to see more games catering to ‘a new generation of folks discovering the game that demands more from them’

Marc LeBlanc discussed the success of the System Shock Remake on the Nightdive Studios' Deep Dive podcast, highlighting a dedicated audience for games that challenge critical thinking and creativity. He noted that the game encourages deeper engagement due to its lack of a conventional quest log. LeBlanc compared this trend to the success of FromSoftware games and mentioned titles like Stardew Valley as examples of a desire for depth in gaming. He reflected on his own gaming experiences, expressing a preference for challenging gameplay that requires critical thinking. Phil Savage from PC Gamer emphasized that the System Shock Remake did not need simplification for modern audiences but required an intuitive user interface and satisfying gameplay.

Winsage

August 17, 2025

Microsoft Confirms ‘Last Update’ For 700 Million Windows Users

Microsoft has alerted over 700 million Windows 10 users about the need for immediate action to address security threats, following the resolution of more than 100 security vulnerabilities. Users have 60 days to choose between an extended support option for Windows 10 or upgrading to Windows 11, with the official retirement date for Windows 10 set for October 14. This change affects Windows 10 version 22H2 and Windows 10 2015 LTSB, with the final security update scheduled for October 2025. Currently, about 47% of users are on Windows 10, while 49% have upgraded to Windows 11. Home users can opt for Extended Security Update (ESU) options, including utilizing Windows Backup or redeeming Microsoft Rewards points at no cost, or paying a fee for coverage of up to 10 PCs. An enrollment wizard has been introduced to facilitate ESU enrollment directly from Windows 10 PCs.

Winsage

August 16, 2025

Don’t miss the deadline — you need Microsoft’s free security update before Windows 10 stops receiving support

Microsoft has released a free update for Windows 10 that allows users to access Extended Security Updates (ESU) until October 2026, following the end of standard support this October. The update, KB5063709, includes an option to "Enroll in Extended Support Updates" on the Windows Update page. Users can either use 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points for a local account or pay a fee to extend coverage for up to 10 PCs linked to a single Microsoft account. An enrollment wizard will be available through notifications and the Settings menu to assist users in selecting their ESU enrollment option. As of now, Windows 10 has a market share of 42.99%, while Windows 11 has 53.39%. Windows 11's 23H2 version will stop receiving security updates on November 11, 2025, and consumer editions have a maximum of 24 months of support. Users must upgrade to versions 24H2 or 25H2, expected in September or October, to continue receiving updates.

BetaBeacon

August 15, 2025

What Do the Epic Games’ Lawsuits Against Apple and Google Say About the DOJ’s Apple Case?

Epic Games filed lawsuits against Apple and Google in 2020 for restricting users' access to Epic's offerings through third-party app stores. The Ninth Circuit ruled in favor of Epic against Google, finding antitrust violations, while Epic lost the federal antitrust case against Apple. The Department of Justice also filed a lawsuit against Apple under Section 2 of the Sherman Act for monopolization. Apple's closed system was found to be successful, while Google's open-source system faced legal challenges. The court in the Google Play case issued remedies targeting exclusivity, which could lead to better user experiences and lower prices.

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.