Firefox Archives

Tech Optimizer

April 29, 2025

Intego Mac Internet Security

PCs were introduced before Apple’s Macintosh, leading to the emergence of PC viruses and the establishment of antivirus companies, with Macintosh protection being less prioritized. Intego focused on Macintosh security from the start, offering Intego Mac Internet Security, which includes a firewall that manages network permissions and defends against external attacks. Intego has been effective against Mac malware, achieving a 99.1% malware detection score in independent lab tests, although it lacks phishing protection, a feature offered by competitors Norton 360 Deluxe and Bitdefender Antivirus Plus. Intego's pricing is competitive, with a standard annual fee of .99 for a single license and .99 for three licenses. A five-device subscription costs .99, while the Mac Premium Bundle starts at .99 annually and includes additional features. A 14-day free trial is available, and free alternatives like Avast and AVG are also on the market. Intego supports older macOS versions back to Mavericks (10.9), but the latest version requires High Sierra (10.13) or later. The installation process for Intego is straightforward, requiring a restart and granting necessary permissions. The main interface includes components for updates, firewall, and antivirus, with user-friendly access to scanning options. Intego has received certification from AV-Comparatives and detected 100% of Windows malware samples in tests. Its quick scan takes about two and a half minutes, while a full system scan takes seven minutes. Intego's Safe Browsing feature checks existing browser protections but lacks a dedicated antiphishing solution. The NetBarrier firewall allows users to classify their network and manage traffic permissions effectively, although it may be complex for some users.

Winsage

April 24, 2025

Reinstalled Windows? Now is the time to Ninite it

Ninite is a tool that simplifies the installation of applications and runtimes during the setup of a fresh Windows LTSC edition. It allows users to create a custom installer that can be reused to update applications to their latest versions. Windows 10 will reach its support deadline in October 2025, prompting users to transition to Windows 11 or consider LTSC editions, which have support until 2027 or 2032 for US English. Users must back up data and have the necessary media and license keys for applications when switching to LTSC, which involves formatting and reinstalling the PC. Ninite enables users to select applications from its website, creating a single installation program that automates the process without unnecessary prompts. It offers a wide range of software, including web browsers, graphics packages, developer tools, messaging apps, and utilities. Additionally, users may need device drivers, for which Snappy Driver Installer Origin can be useful, while O&O ShutUp10++ can help disable Microsoft telemetry.

Winsage

April 12, 2025

Microsoft rolling Windows Recall back into Copilot+ PCs

Microsoft has reintroduced its Windows Recall feature, now integrated into the Windows 11 Release Preview channel for Copilot+ PCs, after addressing public concerns. Originally unveiled at the Build developer conference in May of last year, Windows Recall automatically captures screenshots of a user's desktop at regular intervals and stores them locally. The feature aims to help users revisit their activities and incorporate AI capabilities for searching through the captured data. Privacy concerns arose due to the logging of user actions, prompting Microsoft to pause the launch in June after significant backlash. In November, Microsoft began testing Recall again, with it disabled by default on specific Copilot+ PCs. The feature is included in Windows 11 Build 26100.3902 as an opt-in option, with plans for a broader rollout in early 2025 and a phased introduction in the European Economic Area later this year. Recall will support multiple languages and is compatible with major web browsers. Screenshots are stored locally and encrypted, requiring Windows Hello authentication for access. Microsoft asserts that data remains on local storage and is not shared with third parties, with users having control over snapshot permissions and deletion options.

Tech Optimizer

April 10, 2025

6 overlooked security practices I implemented at home and I regret not using sooner

- Safeguarding technology is crucial in the digital age due to potential threats from various devices. - Two-factor authentication (2FA) enhances online account security by requiring a second code sent to a phone, email, or authentication app. - Biometric verification methods and hardware authentication devices like YubiKeys can further enhance security. - Backup codes should be printed when setting up 2FA, and passkeys offer a passwordless solution for securing accounts. - Ransomware can lock users out of data until a ransom is paid, and Windows 10 and 11 have a feature called Controlled Folder Access (CFA) to protect essential folders. - Windows Security provides baseline protection for PCs, and users should regularly check for updates and conduct manual scans. - Microsoft's PC Manager utility enhances system security by offering features for storage and app management alongside virus scanning. - Securing web browsers is vital, with unique settings available in browsers like Microsoft Edge, Firefox, and Chrome to improve privacy and security. - Regularly clearing browsing history and keeping browsers updated helps mitigate risks from malware and phishing attacks. - Securing Wi-Fi routers involves changing the default admin password and SSID, using strong encryption like WPA3, and regularly updating firmware. - Custom firmware like DD-WRT or OpenWrt can enhance router security and functionality.

Winsage

April 5, 2025

ReactOS, an Open Source Take on Windows

ReactOS is an open-source operating system designed to be compatible with Windows, aiming to recreate the Windows experience while ensuring compatibility with existing software applications. The first stable release occurred in 2011, followed by a beta version in 2013 that improved support for 64-bit systems. By 2020, ReactOS reached a Technical Alpha milestone, indicating progress in stability and performance. The latest version resembles the outdated Windows XP interface, which may appeal to some users but lacks modern functionality. The ReactOS Application Manager allows users to install applications, but many popular software versions are outdated or incompatible. Users are advised to use the Application Manager for installations, as external downloads can lead to issues. ReactOS appeals to Windows users reluctant to switch to Linux or invest in new hardware, but it remains a work in progress with bugs and limited application support. The project invites contributions to enhance the user interface and application compatibility.

Winsage

March 28, 2025

Mozilla warns Windows users of critical Firefox sandbox escape flaw

Mozilla released Firefox version 136.0.4 to address a critical security vulnerability, CVE-2025-2857, which could allow attackers to escape the browser's sandbox on Windows systems. This flaw, identified by developer Andrew McCreight, affects both standard and extended support releases of Firefox. Mozilla patched this issue in Firefox 136.0.4 and Firefox ESR versions 115.21.1 and 128.8.1. The vulnerability is similar to a recent zero-day exploit in Google Chrome, CVE-2025-2783, which was used in cyber-espionage campaigns against Russian entities. Additionally, Mozilla previously addressed another zero-day vulnerability, CVE-2024-9680, exploited by the RomCom cybercrime group, allowing code execution within Firefox's sandbox. Earlier in the year, Mozilla responded to two zero-day vulnerabilities exploited during the Pwn2Own Vancouver 2024 hacking competition.

Winsage

March 26, 2025

ReactOS drops release 0.4.15

ReactOS has released version 0.4.15, its first point-release in several years, following version 0.4.14 from December 2021. This release includes significant improvements such as enhanced plug-and-play support, improved sound and memory management, better Registry handling, a strengthened security subsystem, refinements in the graphical desktop environment, and upgrades to bundled accessories. ReactOS 0.4.15 can run Firefox 52 and successfully installed VirtualBox Guest Additions, recognizing a VirtualBox display adaptor. The operating system operates as an x86-32 platform, identifying itself as Windows NT 5.2 Build 3790: Service Pack 3. ReactOS can install Windows drivers through clean-room reverse engineering, and it features an integrated app store supporting nearly 400 programs, although some functionality issues exist with the built-in "WINE Internet Explorer" browser. The project appeals to users nostalgic for early Windows NT versions and serves as an alternative for those without a Windows license.

Winsage

March 21, 2025

How I made Arch Linux look and run better than Windows

Arch Linux operates on a rolling release model, providing continuous updates without major version changes. It is lightweight, enhancing performance for applications like gaming, and features an easy installation process. KDE Plasma is recommended as a desktop environment, offering a familiar interface and extensive customization options. Essential applications for productivity include Obsidian, GIMP, LibreOffice, Krita, and Kdenlive, along with popular web browsers and communication tools. Installing Steam on Arch Linux allows access to a wide range of games, with Proton enabling many Windows games to run smoothly. Transitioning from Windows to Arch Linux is facilitated by a modern user interface, though it may require some command-line interaction.

Tech Optimizer

March 19, 2025

TotalAV vs Surfshark VPN: Features Comparison Guide

eSecurity Planet maintains editorial independence and may earn revenue through affiliate links. TotalAV is an antivirus solution with basic VPN functionality, while Surfshark specializes in VPN services. TotalAV: - Overall Rating: 2.8/5 - Pricing: 3.7/5 - Features: 2.7/5 - Usability: 3.7/5 - Security: 2/5 - Customer Support: 2.1/5 - Offers essential antivirus protection and basic VPN features, but lacks the capabilities of a dedicated VPN service. Surfshark: - Overall Rating: 4.5/5 - Pricing: 4.8/5 - Features: 4.3/5 - Usability: 5/5 - Security: 4.5/5 - Customer Support: 3.7/5 - Provides advanced features like multihop connections and IP address rotation, with positive customer feedback despite some support challenges. Pricing Comparison: - TotalAV: Premium plan for the first year; renews at a higher rate. - Surfshark: Starter plan at .49/month billed annually. Feature Comparison: - TotalAV includes a kill switch and split tunneling; lacks rotating IP addresses and multi-hop VPN. - Surfshark includes all features of TotalAV plus advanced capabilities. Usability: - TotalAV supports Windows, Mac, iOS, Android; lacks extensive user documentation. - Surfshark supports multiple operating systems and offers training resources. Security: - TotalAV's encryption and audit policies are unclear. - Surfshark uses AES-256 encryption and has undergone multiple independent audits. Customer Support: - TotalAV offers email support; lacks live chat and community forums. - Surfshark provides 24/7 live chat and email support, along with an official Reddit community. Alternatives: - NordVPN starts at .99/month and includes essential and advanced features. - ExpressVPN offers comprehensive features at .32/month. Evaluation Methodology: The comparison was based on pricing, features, usability, security, and customer support.

Winsage

March 19, 2025

6 essential skills every Windows 11 user needs to master

- Windows 11 users can enhance their experience and security by mastering essential skills such as managing updates, securing online presence, and utilizing system settings. - To protect accounts and sensitive information online, users should consider using a password manager, passkeys, and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) on accounts. - A VPN with end-to-end encryption can enhance online security, and users should familiarize themselves with their web browser's security settings. - Windows 11 updates are released on the first Tuesday of each month, with a major feature update annually; users can prevent auto-restarts and pause updates for up to five weeks. - The Settings app in Windows 11 has replaced much of the Control Panel for managing system settings, and users should explore it thoroughly. - OneDrive is integrated into Windows 11 for backing up, restoring, and sharing files, and users can create encrypted folders and use Files-on-Demand. - Regularly reviewing and uninstalling unnecessary applications can help maintain PC performance, and users can manage default applications and disable startup apps via Task Manager. - Accessing the BIOS/UEFI allows for updates, security adjustments, and hardware configuration changes, typically done by pressing keys like Esc, F2, or F8 during boot.