IoT devices Archives

Tech Optimizer

April 15, 2025

5 reasons I regret not deploying my own home firewall sooner

A hardware firewall enhances network security by monitoring and filtering all traffic, preventing unauthorized access based on pre-defined rules, and analyzing traffic patterns for anomalies. It employs Next-Generation Firewall technology for deep packet inspection, utilizes GeoIP restrictions, and runs Intrusion Prevention/Detection Systems (IPS/IDS). Implementing a Zero Trust architecture minimizes device access, and notifications alert users to new device connections. Segregating IoT devices onto a dedicated VLAN reduces security risks. A multi-layered security approach, including rules-based and deep packet inspection, is essential for comprehensive protection. Hardware firewalls often run on Linux or FreeBSD, allowing additional functionalities like ad blocking through services such as Pi-hole. Cataloging devices improves troubleshooting and network management. The adoption of hardware firewalls is increasingly necessary due to the rise of connected devices in homes.

Winsage

March 7, 2025

Akira Ransomware Targets Windows Servers via RDP and Evades EDR with Webcam Trick

The Akira ransomware group has demonstrated its ability to bypass Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools by exploiting an unsecured webcam. In 2024, Akira was responsible for 15% of ransomware incidents addressed by the S-RM team. The group typically gains access through remote access solutions and uses tools like AnyDesk.exe. In a recent attempt to deploy ransomware on a Windows server, their initial effort was thwarted by EDR detection. Subsequently, they conducted an internal network scan and targeted a vulnerable webcam, which lacked EDR protection. By compromising the webcam, Akira deployed Linux-based ransomware to encrypt files across the victim’s network. This incident highlights the need for organizations to patch and manage IoT devices, audit networks for vulnerabilities, implement network segmentation, and monitor IoT traffic for anomalies.

AppWizard

March 5, 2025

Motorola and Lenovo’s Smart Connect app now works on all Android smartphones: Here’s what’s new

Motorola and Lenovo's Smart Connect app has expanded to support all Android devices, enhancing integration between Windows PCs and various smartphones and tablets. The app features AI-driven search capabilities, app mirroring, and efficient file sharing, and is available for free on the Google Play Store. The latest version includes AI-powered functionalities such as natural language search and commands, seamless app mirroring, and device handoff. While some premium features remain exclusive to Motorola and Lenovo devices, the app now allows broader access for other Android users. Additionally, Smart Connect has integrated support for IoT devices, enabling management of Moto Tags and Motorola-branded smartwatches.

Tech Optimizer

February 7, 2025

What is Managed Endpoint Protection?

Managed Endpoint Protection involves outsourcing endpoint security for devices like laptops, desktops, and servers to specialized providers. These services offer continuous monitoring, automated responses, and compliance checks, utilizing advanced analytics and real-time threat intelligence. Key features include continuous monitoring, automated threat containment, vulnerability management, forensic analysis, compliance tools, and threat hunting. Managed services address various threats such as ransomware, phishing, zero-day exploits, credential theft, insider threats, DDoS attacks, and data exfiltration. Benefits include 24/7 expert coverage, access to specialized threat intelligence, faster incident response, reduced operational complexity, predictable pricing, and improved compliance. Challenges include the rapidly evolving threat landscape, skills shortage, budget constraints, and ensuring real-time visibility. Best practices for implementation involve maintaining asset inventories, defining roles, fine-tuning detection thresholds, conducting regular drills, and integrating with broader security measures. When choosing a provider, factors to consider include technical expertise, service level agreements, integration capabilities, pricing, compliance, and ongoing support. SentinelOne offers an autonomous cybersecurity platform that enhances endpoint security through superior visibility, automated responses, and customizable features.

Winsage

December 20, 2024

Why Windows 11 requires a TPM – and how to get around it

Microsoft introduced a hardware compatibility requirement for Windows 11 in 2021, mandating the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 standard. A TPM is a secure cryptoprocessor designed to manage security-related tasks and encryption keys, enhancing system security by encrypting data, generating random numbers, and validating digital signatures. The TPM architecture is defined by the ISO/IEC 11889 standard. TPM can be integrated as a chip on a motherboard or within firmware, with major companies like Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm adopting this technology. TPM 2.0 is essential for Windows security features, working with Secure Boot to ensure only trusted code is executed at startup and facilitating biometric authentication through Windows Hello. It also secures BitLocker keys, making unauthorized data access difficult. Most PCs manufactured from 2016 onwards include TPM 2.0 by default, while older systems may have limited TPM capabilities or adhere to the unsupported TPM 1.2 standard. Users can check their TPM status using the System Information tool. TPM functionality is not exclusive to Windows; it is also utilized in Linux PCs and IoT devices, while Apple devices use a different architecture called Secure Enclave. Windows 10 and 11 automatically initialize the TPM during installation, and users can upgrade to Windows 11 with any version of TPM through a registry modification.

Tech Optimizer

October 29, 2024

How PostgreSQL Enhances Performance and Scalability in IoT Solutions

PostgreSQL is an open-source relational database system favored for its versatility, extensibility, and ability to handle large volumes of data and complex queries efficiently. In 2024, approximately 57,629 companies adopted PostgreSQL, reflecting its growing popularity in IoT applications. PostgreSQL supports scalable IoT application development through custom data types, advanced indexing options (like B-tree and GiST), and JSON/JSONB support for semi-structured data. Its indexing techniques enhance performance, particularly for geolocation data, while partitioning allows for manageable data handling in rapidly growing datasets. PostgreSQL effectively manages time-series data through TimescaleDB, optimizing storage and retrieval for historical information. High availability features, such as asynchronous replication and point-in-time recovery, ensure data integrity and resilience in IoT systems.

Winsage

October 17, 2024

Windows 11 LTSC on Arm: Everything You Need to Know

Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 24H2 has been released, featuring a modern user interface, enhanced security, productivity tools, comprehensive device management, long-term support with up to 10 years of security updates, and a restricted user experience mode. System requirements include a 1 GHz or faster processor with two or more cores, a minimum of 4 GB RAM (2 GB minimum), 64 GB or larger storage, UEFI firmware with Secure Boot, a preferred TPM version 2.0, a DirectX 12 compatible graphics card, and a minimum display size of 9 inches with 700p HD resolution. Enhancements over Windows 10 LTSC include improved performance, better compatibility, advanced security features, and a streamlined update process. The x86 platform offers extensive compatibility and high performance, while the Arm platform emphasizes power efficiency, making it suitable for portable and IoT devices. Microsoft follows a three-year release cycle for LTSC products, with Windows 11 addressing regulatory industry needs for enhanced security. Key differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11 LTSC include a modernized interface, advanced security features, optimized performance, and improved compatibility. Windows 11 LTSC 24H2 has a 10-year lifecycle with five years of mainstream support and five years of extended support. New features include an integrated IoT-specific EULA, wireless display capabilities, optional removable packages, multi-app kiosk mode, automatic MPEG2 installation, HEVC codec support, access to the Microsoft Store, optional TPM enabling, and exclusion of CoPilot. The operating system is applicable across various industries, including medical, governmental, hospitality, and retail, and is compatible with both x64 and Arm processors.

Winsage

October 3, 2024

How to enroll Windows IoT devices in Microsoft Intune | TechTarget

Device management in enterprises has evolved to include a wide range of devices, particularly IoT devices, which can now be enrolled and managed using Microsoft Intune alongside traditional operating systems. Windows IoT devices, used for applications like digital signage and medical devices, require specific management and enrollment strategies. There are different editions of Windows for IoT, including: - Windows IoT Enterprise: A comprehensive version designed for dedicated devices. - Windows Server IoT 2022: Offers enterprise-level management and security features. - Windows 10 IoT Core: A compact edition that runs a single application. Windows IoT Enterprise is commonly used for fixed-purpose devices and shares management capabilities with other Windows Enterprise devices due to their similar binary foundation. Management options for Windows IoT Enterprise include: - Microsoft Intune: A cloud-based management service. - Microsoft Configuration Manager: A management solution for when cloud options are unsuitable. - Azure Arc-enabled servers: For performance monitoring and settings auditing. Enrollment of Windows IoT Enterprise devices into Microsoft Intune is primarily done through a provisioning package, as Windows Autopilot does not officially support these devices. The steps to create a provisioning package using Windows Configuration Designer include: 1. Open the app and select "Provision desktop devices." 2. Provide project details (name, folder, description). 3. Set up device information (device name, product key, shared use, preinstalled software). 4. Specify network details (Wi-Fi). 5. Manage account settings (enroll in Microsoft Entra ID, refresh credentials, bulk token expiry). 6. Optionally add applications and certificates. 7. Review and create the package. To apply a provisioning package, administrators can do so during the Out of Box Experience (OOBE) or on existing devices by executing the package.

Winsage

September 26, 2024

Why Windows 11 requires a TPM – and how to get around that

Microsoft introduced a hardware compatibility test for Windows 11 in 2021, requiring a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) that meets the TPM 2.0 standard. A TPM is a secure cryptoprocessor designed for security tasks and managing encryption keys, enhancing system security by reducing unauthorized access risks. The TPM architecture is defined by the ISO/IEC 11889 standard. TPMs can be integrated as discrete chips, embedded in firmware, or included in CPUs. PCs designed in 2016 or later are likely to have TPM 2.0, as Microsoft mandated its inclusion that year. Older PCs may have TPMs, but those from 2013 or earlier typically use the unsupported TPM 1.2 standard. Some TPMs may be disabled in BIOS settings. The TPM aids in secure boot processes, biometric authentication, and stores BitLocker keys for encryption. Both Windows 10 and 11 automatically initialize the TPM during installation. Upgrading from Windows 10 to 11 can be done with a registry modification if a TPM is present; otherwise, unofficial methods may be needed.

Winsage

September 9, 2024

What is a TPM, and why does Windows 11 require one?

Microsoft launched Windows 11 in 2021, requiring a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) that adheres to the TPM 2.0 standard for enhanced security. A TPM is a secure cryptoprocessor that manages security tasks and encryption keys, reducing unauthorized access risks. The TPM architecture is defined by the ISO/IEC 11889 standard, focusing on cryptographic operations with integrity protection, isolation, and confidentiality. TPMs can be integrated as discrete chips, embedded in firmware, or incorporated into CPUs. Most PCs designed in 2016 or later have TPM 2.0 enabled by default. Intel and AMD have integrated TPM features into their CPUs since then, while older PCs may have TPMs adhering to the older TPM 1.2 standard, which is not supported by Windows 11. Some TPMs may be disabled in BIOS or firmware settings. The TPM processes cryptographic operations and stores private keys, enabling features like Secure Boot, which prevents unauthorized modifications to the operating system, and supports biometric authentication through Windows Hello. It also safeguards BitLocker keys for disk encryption. Both Windows 10 and 11 automatically initialize the TPM during installation. TPM functionality is available on Linux PCs and IoT devices, while Apple devices use a Secure Enclave for similar functions. Users can check their TPM status in Device Manager under Security Devices. Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 requires a minor registry adjustment if a TPM is present. If a TPM is absent, a utility called Rufus can bypass hardware checks for Windows 11 installation.