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Tech Optimizer

February 21, 2025

Multi-tenant vector search with Amazon Aurora PostgreSQL and Amazon Bedrock Knowledge Bases

The article discusses the implementation of a multi-tenant vector store using Amazon Aurora PostgreSQL-Compatible Edition and Amazon Bedrock Knowledge Bases. It outlines a scenario where users request home surveys, and surveyors update findings stored in an Amazon S3 bucket. The process involves converting documents into vector embeddings for enhanced natural language queries through the Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) technique. Key steps include: 1. Ingesting data from S3 into Amazon Bedrock Knowledge Bases. 2. Using an embeddings model to convert documents into vector embeddings. 3. Storing vector embeddings, data chunks, and metadata in Aurora with pgvector. 4. Submitting natural language queries that are transformed into embeddings for retrieval from the vector store. 5. Forwarding relevant documents to a large language model for response generation. To set up the vector store, prerequisites include access to an Amazon Aurora PostgreSQL-compatible database, Amazon S3 for document storage, and Amazon Bedrock for managing knowledge bases. The article provides SQL commands for creating the necessary schema, vector table, and index in Aurora, as well as instructions for ingesting data and ensuring multi-tenant data isolation through metadata filtering. Best practices for deploying a multi-tenant vector store include optimizing chunk size, evaluating embedding models, and monitoring query performance. The article emphasizes the benefits of fully managed solutions to reduce operational complexity.

AppWizard

February 20, 2025

Batman Arkham Origins fan remaster looks like a whole new game

Rocksteady Studios is working to reclaim its reputation after the disappointing launch of Suicide Squad: Kill The Justice League, which marked a shift from its traditional single-player narrative experiences to a live-service model. The game's servers have closed, but its final content update revealed that the heroes were not truly eliminated, as the narrative involved the demise of clones. Rocksteady is reportedly in the early stages of developing a new Batman experience, though it is unclear if it will continue the Arkham Trilogy or explore new directions. Additionally, PC players can enhance Arkham Origins with a fan remaster mod called Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra, created by modder Jb0238177, which improves visual fidelity by disabling motion blur and fog, and enhancing textures and shadows. The mod is available for free on NexusMods.

Winsage

February 19, 2025

These Windows 11 registry hacks will turn you into a PC pro

The Windows Registry Editor is accessed by pressing Win-R, typing regedit, and confirming with “OK.” The registry files are located in “C:WindowsSystem32config” and user-specific files in “C:Users[username].” The five main branches of the registry are: - HkeyCurrentUser: Configuration settings for the current user. - HkeyLocalMachine: Global settings for all users, requiring administrative rights for changes. - HkeyUsers: Contains user IDs for system profiles. - HkeyClassesRoot: Manages file name extensions and program shortcuts. - HkeyCurrentConfig: Links to keys under HkeyLocalMachineSystemCurrentControlSetHardware ProfilesCurrent. Users can create subkeys and values, which can be of different types. To modify the registry, select a key, use the “New” context menu, and double-click to edit. Creating a backup of the registry is recommended before making changes, which can be done using the Registry Backup Portable tool. To restore the registry, select the most recent backup and click “Restore Now.” Microsoft’s Process Monitor can be used to analyze registry values by filtering for “RegSetValue” and tracking changes. Certain registry values are restricted from modification for security reasons, such as the “widgets” feature in Windows 11. However, methods like batch files and PowerShell scripts can override these protections. Windows transmits diagnostic data to Microsoft, impacting user privacy. Tools like O&O Shutup10 and W10Privacy help manage telemetry settings.

AppWizard

February 12, 2025

Minecraft Bedrock Drops Huge New Update Adding Pig Variants and More

Mojang Studios has released update version 1.21.60 for the Bedrock version of Minecraft, introducing two new pig variants: Warm Pig and Cold Pig, which spawn in specific biomes. The update includes new falling leaf particles for all leaf blocks, changes to crafting recipes for lodestones, accessibility improvements, and various gameplay adjustments. Pale Gardens will generate more frequently, and several bugs have been fixed, including issues with camera movement and mob behavior. The update also refines the world spawn point algorithm, introduces a profanity filter for Windows users, and updates the user interface and achievements. The update is being rolled out incrementally across platforms, excluding Nintendo Switch, where availability may vary.

Winsage

February 11, 2025

9 SysInternals tools that should be built into Windows

Windows is a popular operating system known for its versatility but often lacks advanced troubleshooting and system monitoring tools. SysInternals is a suite of utilities developed by Microsoft for power users and IT professionals, offering enhanced control over systems. Key tools in the SysInternals suite include: - Process Explorer (procexp.exe): Provides a detailed overview of running processes, including resource usage and file access, and allows users to identify locked files and potential malware. - Process Monitor (procmon.exe): Records file system, registry, and process activities in real-time, with filtering options to diagnose performance issues and application errors. - Autoruns (autoruns.exe): Displays all startup programs and processes, allowing users to disable or delete unnecessary entries to improve performance and security. - TCPView (tcpview.exe): Shows active TCP and UDP connections, detailing which processes are using network connections, enabling users to manage network activity. - SDelete (sdelete.exe): A command-line tool for secure file deletion that overwrites data to prevent recovery, useful for safeguarding sensitive information. - ZoomIt (zoomit.exe): Enhances presentations by allowing users to zoom in on screen areas and annotate, beneficial for educators and IT professionals. - RamMap (rammap.exe): Analyzes physical memory allocation, helping identify memory leaks and inefficient usage. - PendMoves (pendmoves.exe): Lists files scheduled for movement or deletion upon reboot, aiding in troubleshooting file modification issues. - BgInfo (bginfo.exe): Generates a desktop background displaying vital system information, customizable for user needs. The integration of these tools into Windows would enhance its diagnostic and troubleshooting capabilities, benefiting both everyday and power users.

Tech Optimizer

February 11, 2025

10 Best UTM (Unified Threat Management) Firewalls

Unified Threat Management (UTM) firewalls integrate multiple security functionalities into a single platform, streamlining security management and reducing costs for organizations, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). UTM solutions include features such as firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDPS), antivirus, anti-spam, VPN, web content filtering, and application control, providing comprehensive protection against various cyber threats. UTM firewalls serve as a gateway between internal networks and external connections, inspecting all traffic to block malicious activity. They continuously monitor for suspicious patterns, scan for malware, filter web access, provide VPN capabilities for secure remote connectivity, and filter emails to protect against spam and phishing. UTM systems offer centralized management through a unified dashboard, receive regular updates for emerging threats, and may include performance optimization features. The distinction between UTM and traditional firewalls lies in UTM's broader range of security functions, acting as a comprehensive security solution rather than solely focusing on real-time malware scanning. Top UTM firewalls include: 1. SonicWall UTM: Intrusion prevention and gateway anti-virus. 2. Sophos UTM: User-friendly management with advanced security measures. 3. Check Point UTM: Comprehensive protections including firewalls and VPNs. 4. Fortinet FortiGate UTM: Integrates security and networking functions. 5. WatchGuard UTM: Balances performance, security, and management ease. 6. Juniper UTM: High-performance security services. 7. Barracuda UTM: Extensive network protection through integrated functions. 8. Stormshield UTM: Proactive defense mechanisms. 9. Huawei Unified Security Gateway (USG): Versatile security protections. 10. Cisco UTM: Integrated security and threat management services. Key features of the best UTM firewalls include application control, advanced threat prevention, reporting and analytics, scalability, endpoint protection, and DDoS protection.

AppWizard

February 5, 2025

Goodbye, good morning memes: Google Photos now lets you hide clutter from your grid view

Google Photos has introduced a feature to filter out unwanted content from third-party applications, aimed at decluttering the photo gallery. The new setting, “Show content from other apps,” allows users to manage the visibility of third-party content. Users can toggle “Hide clutter from other apps” to automatically filter out media types like GIFs and screenshots. Additionally, the “Customize by app” option enables users to specify preferences for each app, allowing them to hide or selectively display content. This update is part of version 7.14.0.720276279 of the Google Photos app.

Tech Optimizer

February 4, 2025

Microsoft’s new DocumentDB rethinks NoSQL on PostgreSQL

Developers can integrate API calls into select statements within the shell environment, allowing for experimentation and an iterative approach before incorporating these calls into larger codebases. The shell supports CRUD operations, filtering, querying, and building indexes across multiple fields. The GitHub wiki is the primary resource for DocumentDB documentation, which is designed for developers seeking an alternative to MongoDB. DocumentDB has an open-source license and currently lacks a software development kit (SDK), requiring developers to create their own API calls based on MongoDB principles. The DocumentDB initiative aims to establish a standardized NoSQL API and engine, with Microsoft leveraging its experience in standards organizations to enhance the NoSQL landscape.

Tech Optimizer

February 3, 2025

Coyote Malware Launches Stealthy Attack on Windows Systems via LNK Files

FortiGuard Labs has raised an alarm about the Coyote Banking Trojan, a sophisticated malware targeting Microsoft Windows users, particularly in Brazil. Researchers discovered malicious LNK files that use PowerShell commands to execute scripts and connect to remote servers, initiating a multi-stage attack aimed at extracting sensitive information from over 70 financial applications and more than 1,000 websites. The attack begins with an LNK file that triggers a PowerShell command to download and execute additional malicious scripts. The malware employs loaders, shellcode, and Windows registry modifications, with a DLL file named “bmwiMcDec” injecting payloads into processes. It gathers system information and transmits it to remote servers, while the main payload enables keylogging, screenshot capture, phishing overlays, and window manipulation. The Coyote Trojan communicates with command-and-control servers via port 443 and adapts its actions based on server directives. Fortinet's security solutions, including FortiGuard Antivirus and Web Filtering Service, can detect and block threats associated with this malware. Users are advised to keep security systems updated and engage in cybersecurity training.

AppWizard

December 28, 2024

Take Control of Your Notifications with Samsung’s One UI 7 Beta

Samsung's One UI 7 update, based on Android 15, introduces a new "Filter notifications" feature that allows users to categorize non-urgent alerts into groups within the notification panel. This feature includes three toggles: 1. Old Notifications: Filters out outdated app notifications. 2. Background Notifications: Filters notifications from apps running in the background. 3. Minimized Notifications: Allows users to manually minimize certain alerts. Grouped notifications will still be visible but organized under a "More notifications" card. The stable version of One UI 7 is expected to be released between January and February of the following year.