ExpressVPN Archives

Winsage

December 28, 2024

I’ve been a Windows on Arm user for years — Snapdragon X Elite has changed everything

The author has been using Arm-based computers, specifically an M1 Mac Mini and a Qualcomm Snapdragon-powered Windows two-in-one PC, and has found Apple's silicon consistently impressive while Microsoft's offerings have lagged. In April 2024, Microsoft introduced the Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus chipsets, enhancing the compatibility layer for applications on Windows on Arm through a new emulator called Prism, which matches the efficiency of Apple's Rosetta 2. Testing the Honor MagicBook 14 Art, powered by the Snapdragon X Elite, revealed significant improvements, including native support for previously struggling applications like Google Drive and ExpressVPN. The MagicBook features a 12-core Snapdragon X Elite, offering seamless application launch and multitasking without the random freezes seen in earlier models. Its thermal performance is commendable, achieving around ten hours of usage in "Balanced" mode. The device also includes a Neural Processing Unit for enhanced AI capabilities. Compatibility advancements allow mainstream applications to run natively, and upcoming Windows updates promise to expand this further. The MagicBook 14 Art is priced at approximately ,750, featuring 32GB of RAM, a 1TB SSD, and a detachable webcam for privacy. Despite the progress, the market for Snapdragon X computers remains niche, and Qualcomm's disputes with Arm could impact future sales.

Tech Optimizer

November 28, 2024

I’m a privacy expert, here’s 5 things I’d buy to stay safe over Black Friday

As the holiday shopping season approaches, consumers can enhance their online security while benefiting from discounts. Black Friday is a key time for purchasing cybersecurity tools to protect against data breaches, malware, and identity theft. 1. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts internet connections, protects user anonymity, and allows access to geo-restricted content. Leading VPN providers are offering discounts this Black Friday. 2. Antivirus software is essential for protection against malware and data breaches. Brands like Norton, Avast, and McAfee are offering reduced prices on their antivirus solutions this Black Friday. 3. A password manager helps users securely store and generate unique passwords, reducing the risk of credential-stuffing attacks. Many VPN services include password managers in their packages. 4. Identity theft and financial fraud are rising, with the FTC reporting over 550,000 cases of identity theft in the first half of 2024. Many antivirus providers now offer identity protection and credit monitoring, with discounts available during Black Friday. 5. Data removal services help individuals reclaim their privacy by requesting the deletion of personal information compiled by data brokers. Many antivirus and VPN providers offer these services, with Black Friday discounts available.

Winsage

November 5, 2024

Proton VPN now supports Windows on Arm natively

Proton VPN has announced native support for Windows on Arm devices, aligning with other applications like Vegas Pro and ExpressVPN. The service will mirror the features of its x64 version, including a kill switch, Secure Core, port forwarding, and modern NAT. The recent improvements in the Prism emulator with Windows 11 version 24H2 have enhanced emulation speed, prompting Proton VPN to adapt to this architecture. The company anticipates an increase in Windows on Arm devices and believes that the availability of popular applications will broaden its user base. Proton VPN is a VPN solution focused on user privacy and security, offering various plan options.

Winsage

October 19, 2024

Qualcomm cancels its miniature Windows on Arm PC

Qualcomm has canceled its Snapdragon Dev Kit, a compact Windows on Arm PC originally set for release in June, citing that it "has not met our usual standards of excellence." Customers will receive full refunds for their orders. The launch faced multiple challenges, and Qualcomm has not provided specific reasons for the delays. Some developers received units before the announcement, with one noting performance comparable to Apple's M3 Pro but lacking Linux support and having peculiar resale restrictions. A missing HDMI port was identified as a potential issue, with suggestions that it may have caused production delays and failed FCC compliance testing. The dev kit was intended to help developers adapt applications for Windows on Arm, with notable successes in native Arm64 applications. The cancellation raises concerns about Qualcomm's strategy for desktop PCs as it approaches its upcoming Snapdragon summit.

TrendTechie

September 28, 2024

10 Best Torrent Clients to Download Torrents Faster (2024)

Torrent clients are specialized software applications that facilitate the downloading of torrent files through a peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing network. The legality of using torrent clients depends on the content being downloaded; downloading copyrighted material without permission is illegal. Safety concerns include the risk of malware and legal ramifications. Using a VPN, such as ExpressVPN, while torrenting can protect against cyber threats and maintain privacy. The best torrent clients for 2024 include: 1. **qBittorrent** - Free, ad-free, lightweight, and cross-platform. 2. **µTorrent** - Popular for Windows, lightweight but has ads in recent versions. 3. **Deluge** - Lightweight, open-source, and customizable with plugins. 4. **BitTorrent Client** - User-friendly for beginners but has ads in the free version. 5. **WebTorrent** - Browser-based, no ads, supports streaming. 6. **Vuze** - User-friendly with minimal ads, but can be complex for beginners. 7. **Tixati** - Lightweight, ad-free, includes a chat feature. 8. **BiglyBT** - Open-source, ad-free, supports anonymous downloads. 9. **BitLord** - Simple interface, allows downloading and streaming simultaneously. 10. **Transmission** - Open-source, optimized for macOS and Linux, ad-free. Honorable mentions include BitComet, Bitport.io, Folx, Zbigz, and 5kplayer.

Tech Optimizer

September 27, 2024

McAfee Total Protection Essential review

McAfee Total Protection Essential offers antivirus and browsing protection for up to five devices, includes a password manager, and provides comprehensive data breach monitoring for email addresses, phone numbers, credit cards, and bank accounts. It features a scam detector in its mobile app and provides a full and unlimited VPN service. In malware tests, McAfee achieved an 88% success rate, which is lower than competitors like Avira, Avast, and Bitdefender. The Safe Connect VPN has decent coverage across 48 countries but sometimes struggles with connection issues and slower speeds compared to competitors. True Key, McAfee's password manager, allows secure storage of logins but lacks advanced features. The dark web monitoring feature can track up to ten email addresses and phone numbers, surpassing many competitors. The advanced firewall primarily monitors outgoing connections and relies on the Windows Firewall for incoming threats. The File Shredder securely deletes documents, but occasionally fails, and the Tracker Remover deletes cookies and browser history but lacks configurability and speed.

Tech Optimizer

September 24, 2024

Top Tools to Enhance Your Gaming Security

In 2024, the gaming industry is vibrant and competitive, with millions of players engaged in various genres, but it faces cyber threats like DDoS attacks, malware, and account takeovers, necessitating strong cybersecurity measures. Antivirus software is crucial for detecting and eliminating malicious software. Bitdefender Antivirus Plus is lightweight and provides real-time protection without affecting gameplay. Norton 360 for Gamers optimizes performance during gameplay and includes a built-in VPN to prevent DDoS attacks. VPNs protect online identity and secure connections. ExpressVPN is known for speed and reliability, preventing DDoS attacks while minimizing lag. NordVPN has a large server network, ensuring stable connections and advanced encryption. Firewalls manage network traffic and prevent unauthorized access. GlassWire offers comprehensive network monitoring, while Comodo Firewall provides high customization for tailored security. Password managers help secure gaming accounts by generating and storing strong passwords. LastPass offers seamless password management, while Dashlane includes dark web monitoring and VPN services. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds an extra security layer. Authy is user-friendly with cross-platform support, and Google Authenticator generates offline codes for added security. Penetration testing tools identify vulnerabilities in systems. Metasploit is a comprehensive security testing tool, and Nmap scans networks to find vulnerabilities. Game-specific security software ensures fair play. GameGuard monitors for cheating in real-time, while PunkBuster prevents cheating in multiplayer games. Encryption tools protect sensitive data. VeraCrypt provides strong encryption for gaming data, and BitLocker offers full-disk encryption integrated with Windows.

Winsage

September 7, 2024

Windows PCs powered by Snapdragon can now run ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN has made its application compatible with Windows on Arm PCs powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon processors, marking a significant development as few VPNs have ventured into this area. The compatible version is available as a beta release for Copilot+ PCs on the company's website. ExpressVPN has chosen a "semi-native" solution, using rebuilt drivers and Microsoft’s Prism emulation technology, rather than a fully native application. This approach allows the app to function effectively on Arm machines while maintaining robust security features. The Copilot+ branding may cause confusion, as future models will include Intel and AMD chips, despite current models operating on Snapdragon X processors.

Winsage

September 6, 2024

Native Google Drive app coming soon to Snapdragon Galaxy Books

The ARM-powered Windows laptop market is experiencing growth, highlighted by Qualcomm's launch of the Snapdragon X Plus series chipsets for affordable Windows laptops and Samsung's release of the Galaxy Book 4 Edge, a 15-inch laptop featuring the new chipset. At IFA 2024, Qualcomm's CEO announced that Google will release a native Google Drive application for ARM-powered Windows laptops in Q4 2024, addressing a significant gap in cloud storage solutions for these devices. Additionally, popular VPN services NordVPN and ExpressVPN are now available for ARM-powered Windows laptops, enhancing user options.

TrendTechie

September 6, 2024

Is uTorrent Safe to Use? How to Download Safely in 2024

Using uTorrent poses risks such as exposing your IP address to other users, potential data collection by the software, and the possibility of downloading malware-infected files. The owner of uTorrent, Rainberry, Inc., collects user data, including IP addresses and browsing information, which could be sold or exposed in data breaches. Additionally, as a US-based company, it is subject to intelligence-sharing agreements that may compromise user privacy. To enhance safety while using uTorrent, employing a reliable VPN is recommended. ExpressVPN is highlighted as a top choice due to its strong security features, fast speeds, and P2P support across all servers. Other VPNs mentioned include CyberGhost and Private Internet Access, each with specific benefits for torrenting. Users should avoid installing additional software during uTorrent setup, regularly update the application, use trusted or private trackers, verify torrents before downloading, scan files with anti-malware software, disable ads, and back up critical data. Downloading pirated content is illegal in many jurisdictions and poses additional risks. uTorrent itself is legal, but the legality of downloaded content depends on copyright laws. Alternatives to uTorrent include qBittorrent, Deluge, and Transmission, which are open-source and free of bundled software.