customer support Archives

Winsage

June 7, 2025

If you’re sick of software subscriptions, check this out

A Microsoft Office Pro lifetime license is available for .97, significantly reduced from its usual price of 9.99. This license includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, Access, and the free version of Teams. It allows installation on a single Windows PC and is tied to the device rather than a Microsoft account. The software supports all languages, includes complimentary customer support, and provides updates at no extra cost.

Tech Optimizer

June 6, 2025

Bitdefender Antivirus Review 2025: I Found This Top-Rated Security Software Effective and Efficient

Bitdefender Antivirus has a score of 9.5 out of 10, with the following breakdown: Performance: 9/10, Security: 10/10, Customer Support: 9/10, Usability: 10/10, Value: 9/10, Features: 10/10. It has over 500 million users worldwide and offers real-time protection against malware, a scam detector, a VPN, password manager, ad blocker, digital identity protection, dark web monitoring, and data breach detection. Bitdefender's plans include a free version for single-device use and various Ultimate Security packages for individuals and families, all priced at 0 for the first year. The software is user-friendly, with a straightforward setup process and minimal impact on system resources during operation. It consistently achieves high marks in third-party lab tests for security and offers various customer support options, though the initial steps to reach a representative can be cumbersome.

AppWizard

June 5, 2025

Emerging online scams are making users more vigilant, says Google

Over 60% of U.S. consumers have encountered scams, indicating a growing awareness of digital threats. More than 60% of Gen X and Baby Boomers still use traditional passwords, while younger generations prefer passkeys. Google has enhanced scam detection capabilities on Android devices, introducing features to identify potential scams in calls and texts. Over 60% of consumers perceive an increase in scams over the past year, with one-third reporting personal data breaches. Google promotes passwordless sign-in options like passkeys and "Sign in with Google" to improve security. Recent updates include enhanced scam detection in Google Messages and Chrome, and the Safety Check feature in Chrome now monitors for malicious notifications. Google has also released findings on prevalent scams, such as customer support fraud and package tracking schemes.

Tech Optimizer

June 3, 2025

How we test antivirus software

Robust antivirus software is essential for protecting sensitive data in personal and business contexts. Different antivirus solutions vary in malware detection and overall protection. The ideal antivirus balances comprehensive coverage with system performance. Resources like AV-Comparatives and AV-Test provide impartial testing of antivirus capabilities, including real-world protection tests and evaluations of false alarms. Performance and customer support are critical factors in antivirus software evaluation. The impact on device speed and resource consumption is important, as is the quality of customer support for troubleshooting. Reliable support options enhance user satisfaction. Thorough testing of antivirus software is crucial due to the evolving tactics of cybercriminals. Not all antivirus solutions are equally effective, and rigorous evaluation helps identify subpar options and false positives. Free antivirus options may suffice for casual users, but premium versions often offer better features and protections. Meticulous testing ensures that security software meets its promises and helps users make informed decisions.

AppWizard

May 29, 2025

4 years after being delisted, Lost Planet 2 finally got a Steam update to remove Games for Windows Live—but it also removed online multiplayer and blew up everyone’s saves

Lost Planet 2, a sci-fi third-person shooter from Capcom, was removed from Steam in 2021 due to issues with the discontinued Games for Windows Live (GFWL). A recent update lifted GFWL but disrupted online multiplayer functionality and erased local save files. Initially launched in 2007, GFWL aimed to merge multiplayer services for PC but ultimately failed, leading to many games, including Lost Planet 2, being left in disrepair. Despite being delisted, players found ways to keep the game alive, though installation issues hindered the multiplayer experience. Guides have emerged to revert the game to its previous state to restore GFWL. There is speculation that Capcom may be working on a comprehensive Steamworks update, as the game has not reappeared in Steam listings.

Winsage

May 29, 2025

Forced E-Waste PCs And The Case Of Windows 11’s Trusted Platform

The process of upgrading Windows operating systems was straightforward until Windows 11, which introduced a new requirement for a Trusted Platform Module (TPM), potentially rendering many capable PCs obsolete. The TPM is used for boot validation and storing biometric data, but it complicates data recovery and may lock out legitimate users. Users have found ways to bypass Windows 11's TPM and CPU restrictions, allowing installation on unsupported hardware. Microsoft’s enforcement of these requirements remains uncertain, raising concerns about system reliability and user access to updates. Many users are opting to stay on Windows 10 while advocating for continued support from developers.

AppWizard

May 28, 2025

Google’s latest fraud advisory update keeps users keen on emerging threats

Google has released an updated fraud and scam advisory in anticipation of its inaugural Scams Summit, highlighting prevalent scam tactics such as customer support, package tracking, and toll road scams. The company has enhanced its Phone and Messages app with advanced scam protection features for Android users, integrating Gemini technology to detect and block potential scams. Google’s updated advisory also addresses risks from malvertising and counterfeit travel websites, while Chrome has received an update featuring AI-driven warnings for potential scams. Additionally, new scam protection features for calls and texts have been introduced, focusing on blocking actions when potential call scams are detected and identifying various scams related to toll roads, billing, cryptocurrency, and financial impersonation.

AppWizard

May 28, 2025

The best password managers for Android of 2025: Expert tested

Safeguarding personal information like login credentials and credit card details is crucial for Android users, and a password manager is essential for generating and securely storing strong, unique passwords. Bitwarden is highlighted as the best free password manager due to its open-source nature and robust encryption, allowing unlimited credential syncing across devices. It features autofill, secure note storage, a password generator, encrypted sharing, biometric unlock, and passkey support. 1Password is recommended for its user-friendly interface and security features, offering a library of over 20 credential types, autofill capabilities, and a feature called Watchtower for security alerts. It requires a subscription after a 14-day trial. Keeper is noted for its user-friendly onboarding process and enterprise-level security, accommodating various record types and offering features like account recovery and offline access, but it may be less appealing for budget-conscious users. Proton Pass, an open-source option from the creators of Proton VPN and Proton Mail, emphasizes privacy and offers features like password health alerts and hide-my-email aliases, although it currently lacks some functionalities of more established managers. Overall, Bitwarden is the top choice for cost-effective password management, while 1Password is recognized for its user experience.

Tech Optimizer

May 27, 2025

Microsoft Defender vs Bitdefender: Compare Antivirus Software

eSecurity Planet maintains editorial independence in content and product recommendations, ensuring financial gain from partner links does not influence information integrity. Microsoft Defender and Bitdefender are prominent small business security providers. Microsoft Defender is ideal for larger SMBs, starting at .00 per user per month, while Bitdefender is suited for startups with over 10 employees, starting at .33 per user per month. Microsoft Defender Overview: - Overall Rating: 3.7/5 - Pricing: 4.4/5 - Features: 3.4/5 - Ease of Use and Administration: 3.8/5 - Customer Support: 3.7/5 - Features include next-gen antivirus, vulnerability management, and EDR. Bitdefender Overview: - Overall Rating: 3.4/5 - Pricing: 3.8/5 - Features: 3/5 - Ease of Use and Administration: 3.4/5 - Customer Support: 4/5 - Features include identity protection, a VPN, and a password manager. Pricing Comparison: - Microsoft Defender: Free Trial: 90 days; Least Expensive Plan: .00/user/month; Mid-Range Plan: .50/user/month; Most Expensive Plan: .00/user/month. - Bitdefender: 30-day money-back guarantee; Least Expensive Plan: .33/user/month; Mid-Range Plan: Not specified; Most Expensive Plan: Not specified. Feature Comparison: - Microsoft Defender offers robust endpoint protection but lacks clarity on web browsing protection and ad-blocking. - Bitdefender offers identity exposure protection, a VPN, and a password manager but also lacks web browsing and ad-blocking features. Ease of Use and Administration: - Microsoft Defender supports macOS, Windows, and Linux Server; Bitdefender supports macOS and Windows but lacks Linux support. Customer Support Comparison: - Microsoft provides phone and live chat support; Bitdefender offers email and chat support, with limited phone support for small business users. Alternative Solutions include Norton, McAfee, and Trend Micro, each offering different features and pricing structures. Evaluation Methodology focused on pricing, features, ease of use, and customer support, with Microsoft winning in pricing, features, and ease of use, while Bitdefender excelled in customer support.

AppWizard

May 25, 2025

Double Fine dev embarks on a quest to discover Full Throttle’s true release date: ‘Perhaps the best 30th birthday present I could give Full Throttle was a real birthday’

Full Throttle, an adventure game by LucasArts, marked its 30th anniversary, leading to an investigation into its release date. Conflicting sources suggested various dates: April 30, April 20, and May 19, 1995. Double Fine Productions leans towards April 30, but that date fell on a Sunday, making it unlikely for a retail release. Investigation into original release files indicated modifications as late as May 2, 1995. An advertisement in The Daily Record on May 19, 1995, promoted the game, but staggered releases and miscommunication were common at the time. CompUSA expected copies by May 5, but they didn't reach shelves until at least May 18. Silk noted that requests for hints about the game began to appear after May 19, 1995, suggesting that this date may mark when the game entered public awareness.