Internet Archives

Tech Optimizer

October 20, 2026

Why you can finally stop paying for antivirus software? – Innovation Village

Since the launch of Windows 8 in 2012, Microsoft has integrated antivirus protection into the operating system, making it unnecessary for users to pay for essential protection. Microsoft Defender Antivirus has improved significantly, achieving a score of 6 out of 6 in AV-Test's July–August 2026 results, successfully detecting 100 percent of threats. Modern cyber threats primarily involve social engineering rather than traditional viruses, prompting third-party antivirus companies to offer core protection as a free tier while promoting premium subscriptions with additional features. Many users find that third-party antivirus software can degrade their computing experience due to nagware, performance hits, and inferior bundled tools compared to standalone services. Microsoft Defender, along with modern web browsers that provide anti-phishing security, is sufficient for most users.

AppWizard

October 20, 2026

Android 17 QPR3 Beta 2 for Pixel rolling out with 21 fixes

The Android 17 QPR3 preview is set to launch in March 2027, with Beta 2 now available for Google Pixel devices. This update resolves various issues, including: - Intermittent device crashes and reboots during normal usage. - Persistent text in the Internet Quick Settings tile when mobile data is active without Wi-Fi. - Media output dialog failing to recognize the monochrome system theme with external audio devices. - Misalignment of pin icons next to pinned apps in the share sheet. - Unexpected API lint and source compatibility check errors from internal PublishedApi declarations. - Unexpected device shutdowns during WhatsApp video calls. - Overlapping lock screen notifications with UI elements causing stuttering animations. - Cellular data, MMS, and hotspot services failing on Dish Network. - Screen recording freezing after screen rotation. - Abnormally small rendering of system UI, fonts, and apps regardless of display size settings. - Display turning black and unresponsive after ending a phone call. - Terminal app failing to launch the Linux development environment virtual machine post-installation. - Wi-Fi Aware errors when establishing data paths after network request release. - Paired watches ringing after an incoming call is answered. - Airbnb app failing to connect when sending messages. - Misalignment of Bluetooth subtitle in Quick Settings. - Unexpected closure of the app drawer when switching keyboard languages. - Bluetooth pairing failures due to connection timeouts. - VoLTE, VoNR, and Wi-Fi calling unavailable on the IT&E network. - High idle battery drain from motion sensors remaining active post Face Unlock or camera use. - Wi-Fi Calling unavailable on the OXIO network. Users can report issues via the Android Beta Feedback app or the Android Beta community on Reddit. System images for Android 17 QPR3 Beta 2 are available for various Pixel devices, and interested users can join the Android Beta Program for an on-device OTA experience.

AppWizard

October 20, 2026

Is the Lloyds Banking app down? Hundreds reports issues

Customers are experiencing difficulties logging into and using the Lloyds Bank app, with a significant increase in reports on Downdetector. The problems began shortly before 7 AM and have worsened throughout the morning. Users have expressed their frustrations on social media, reporting issues such as being unable to send money, freezing during usage, and difficulties accessing the app.

AppWizard

October 20, 2026

Google Cloud outage hits multiple websites and apps

Google acknowledged an ongoing issue affecting multiple services in the europe-west2 region that began around 7 AM. Downdetector reported a noticeable increase in reported issues across several services. Revolut reported a "service disruption affecting multiple services," confirming customer data is safe. Halifax acknowledged issues with their app and website but did not link them to the Google Cloud outage. The budgeting app Emma stated its services were down due to the Google Cloud outage. Other services experiencing outages include Lloyds Bank, DPD, Rightmove, Bank of Scotland, and Royal Mail.

Winsage

October 20, 2026

How to optimize your Windows PC for excellent performance

Personal computers have improved in speed and performance due to advancements in hardware and software, but performance can still vary based on configurations and usage. The latest version of Windows may experience occasional lags even with high-end hardware. To optimize Windows PCs, users should ensure they have the latest updates installed, as these enhance performance and security. Regularly updating drivers and applications is also important. Freeing up disk space is crucial for optimal performance, as a cluttered hard drive can slow down the system. Users should monitor their disk space and delete unnecessary files. Malware can hinder performance, so running antivirus scans is essential if issues arise. Adjusting power settings to "Best Performance" can improve speed, particularly when the device is plugged in. Pausing OneDrive syncing can alleviate resource consumption during uploads. Upgrading to a solid-state drive (SSD) can significantly enhance performance, as SSDs offer faster boot times and application loading. Increasing RAM capacity allows for better handling of simultaneous processes. Disabling unnecessary startup programs can free up system resources, and adjusting Windows appearance settings can conserve RAM. Uninstalling unused applications can also improve performance. For gamers, enabling Game Mode prioritizes system resources for gaming. Regularly restarting the PC helps maintain optimal performance by closing background processes and refreshing memory.

Tech Optimizer

October 20, 2026

Switch Antivirus Software: 13 Steps, Zero Gaps [2026]

ESET rebranded its home security lineup in 2026, introducing ESET HOME Security Essential and Premium, and added automatic ransomware backup to its Ultimate plan. The NOD32 engine was updated to version 19.2 on August 27, 2026. IPVanish launched a next-generation antivirus product on October 7, 2026, built on the VIPRE engine and integrated into its VPN application. Many Australians are reconsidering their antivirus options due to discrepancies between current product names and older installations. A comprehensive 13-step guide has been developed to facilitate the transition to new antivirus software, addressing potential risks such as performance issues from running multiple engines, improper uninstallation, and loss of license keys. In 2026, ESET introduced features like a Website Security Inspector and a Microphone Monitor, while IPVanish's antivirus includes real-time anti-ransomware protection and machine-learning threat detection. Security.org's 2025 report indicated that 84% of users made no changes to their antivirus software over the past year, with many only reconsidering when faced with price increases or product discontinuations. The choice between paid and free antivirus solutions is significant, with 54% of third-party users paying for their software. ESET's Ultimate tier is the only one that includes ransomware backup features. Before switching antivirus products, users should ensure they are running compatible operating systems, have administrator access, document current and new antivirus version numbers, and have a stable internet connection. A PowerShell command can check the current antivirus status. Steps for migration include auditing current antivirus features, choosing a suitable replacement, exporting license keys, and using official removal tools to uninstall the old software. After installation, users should verify real-time protection is active and rebuild exclusions and scan schedules. Common pitfalls during migration include failing to uninstall the old antivirus completely, forgetting to disable tamper protection, and losing exclusion lists. For mobile devices, permissions from the old antivirus must be cleared to avoid conflicts. Advanced users managing multiple devices may benefit from staggering migrations and checking for known vulnerabilities in the antivirus products. A PowerShell script can be created to log the antivirus state before and after migration.

AppWizard

October 19, 2026

Kerala HC seeks Centre stand on plea challenging blocking of BitChat messaging app

The Kerala High Court is addressing concerns regarding the open-source messaging application BitChat, which gained popularity during the internet shutdowns in Delhi in July 2026. The app operates over Bluetooth and does not require an internet connection. In October, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology ordered the blocking of BitChat, leading to its removal from app stores by Apple and Google in India. The Appropriate Technology Promotion Society has filed a legal challenge against this decision. During a recent hearing, the court instructed several ministries and representatives from Apple and Google to submit affidavits regarding the app's blocking. The court is considering the maintainability of the petition and has scheduled the next hearing for November 11.

AppWizard

October 17, 2026

Teen’s Disaster Messaging App Can ‘Hop’ Across Bluetooth When Cellular Networks Collapse

A high school student named Emirhan Duman developed an app called Crisis Connect in response to communication failures during the February 6, 2023, earthquakes in southern Türkiye and northern Syria. The app uses Bluetooth technology to allow users to send messages and make calls without cellular or internet connections, particularly useful in disaster scenarios. Crisis Connect enables nearby phones to exchange messages, creating a network that can reach isolated individuals. It includes features like SOS beacons, a compass, live location broadcasting, and a metal detector. The app conserves battery life by default but can be activated in emergencies. Crisis Connect is available for free on the App Store and Google Play, and its open-source code allows for global contributions.

Tech Optimizer

October 16, 2026

NordVPN’s CTO on redefining antivirus for the AI era, and his dream security tool

NordVPN has introduced a new offering called "next-gen antivirus" (NGAV) to address evolving cybersecurity threats, particularly those from artificial intelligence. NGAV aims to redefine online security by protecting against sophisticated threats like socially engineered scams and phishing attacks, rather than just traditional viruses. It operates in the background, alerting users to potential scams, blocking ads and trackers, and removing malware without requiring extensive technical knowledge. The company recognizes that personal AI agents present a new cybersecurity challenge and is developing features to protect these agents. NordVPN has incorporated bespoke AI solutions into its NGAV, using efficient models that can identify phishing attempts while running locally on user devices. The company has also shifted to open-weight models to reduce costs while maintaining capabilities, although sensitive areas like payment processing remain unaffected by AI. Despite privacy concerns regarding AI, NordVPN has not faced significant pushback from customers about its AI features and emphasizes its commitment to not using customer data for model training. Briedis warns that over-regulation could hinder innovation in cybersecurity. Looking ahead, he envisions a comprehensive application that monitors users' digital environments and manages their data presence online, while NordVPN plans to focus on creating localized solutions rather than hardware development.

Tech Optimizer

October 16, 2026

How to protect your PC from malware

Malware, short for "malicious software," is designed to gain unauthorized access to computers or networks for purposes such as data theft and surveillance. It can be introduced through disguised software or deceptive links. To protect against malware, it is essential to install antivirus software, scan external drives before connecting them, be cautious about downloads, avoid suspicious websites and emails, update applications regularly, enable Tamper Protection on Windows, minimize file sharing, enable Firewall protection, watch out for phishing attacks, and back up data regularly. The future of malware protection may involve leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance detection and analysis of threats.