monitor Archives

Tech Optimizer

June 20, 2026

How Five PostgreSQL Optimizations Sped Up Our Dashboard

The dashboard operates on a Django monolith with PostgreSQL and is transitioning to ClickHouse for denormalization. The initial p50 metric was 0.7 seconds, but the p95 was 8 seconds, which was reduced to 1 second. Observability tools were established to monitor performance, and slow HTTP requests were identified using OpenTelemetry traces. Optimization techniques included late joining, asynchronous counting, creating a PostgreSQL replica for read operations, and improving full-text search. Denormalization was explored to enhance filtering performance by creating composite indexes. The production stack was upgraded to PostgreSQL 18, which provided incremental performance improvements. The final p95 value achieved was 1 second, below the target of 3 seconds.

Tech Optimizer

June 19, 2026

How Cybersecurity Services Have Evolved Beyond Antivirus and Firewalls

Businesses traditionally relied on antivirus software and firewalls for cybersecurity, which were effective when threats were simpler and data was mostly stored on-site. However, the cybersecurity landscape has evolved, with cybercriminals employing advanced tactics that traditional methods cannot adequately address. Antivirus software is limited to detecting known threats, while modern malware can evade detection by altering its code or executing in memory. Firewalls also struggle when authorized users' credentials are compromised, allowing threats to infiltrate networks. Contemporary security strategies advocate for a multi-layered approach, incorporating tools like Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Zero Trust Architecture, Dark Web Monitoring, and Security Awareness Training. Compliance with regulatory standards is increasingly important, and cyber insurance providers now require businesses to demonstrate comprehensive security measures. Managed security providers are becoming essential for small and mid-sized businesses, offering expertise and resources to manage complex security tools and processes effectively. Organizations should assess their current security status and adopt a layered approach to address vulnerabilities, recognizing that traditional solutions alone are insufficient in today's threat landscape.

Winsage

June 19, 2026

Sorry Microsoft, Windows 10 taskbar is still better than Windows 11, and here’s why

The taskbars of Windows 10 and Windows 11 differ significantly in design and functionality. Windows 11 features a centered icon layout by default, while Windows 10 has left-aligned icons. The search functionality in Windows 10 includes a larger "Type here to search" bar, whereas Windows 11 offers a more compact search button or box. Windows 10's right-click menu provides extensive customization options directly, while Windows 11's is more minimalistic and requires navigating to settings for customization. Windows 10 allows users to toggle small taskbar buttons, a feature that was initially absent in Windows 11 but has since been reintroduced. Taskbar repositioning in Windows 10 is straightforward, while Windows 11 requires accessing settings for repositioning. Windows 11 combines app icons by default and hides labels, complicating navigation compared to Windows 10's clearer visual cues. The Start menu in Windows 10 is resizable and features Live Tiles, which are not present in Windows 11's fixed-size Start menu. Windows 10's News and Interests feature contrasts with Windows 11's Widgets board, which has been criticized for being intrusive. Windows 11's Quick Settings separates toggles and notifications into two panels, enhancing user experience, while Windows 10's clock flyout offered a native agenda view that has been removed in Windows 11. Windows 11 includes a performance enhancement for taskbar flyouts to improve responsiveness on budget hardware, a feature not needed in Windows 10. Additionally, Windows 11 introduces a Resume function for Android activities and is developing AI integrations for the taskbar, which are not available in Windows 10.

AppWizard

June 19, 2026

Meta rolls out enhanced safety features for teen Instagram users

On June 18, 2026, Meta announced new safety features for users aged 13 to 17 on Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger, including: - Automatic private settings for Teen Accounts, requiring approval for new followers, with non-followers unable to view or interact with content. - Messaging limited to individuals they follow or are connected with. - Tagging and mentioning restricted to followers, with offensive language filtered through the Hidden Words feature. - Notifications to take breaks after 60 minutes of use. - Muted notifications from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m., with automatic replies sent during those hours. For users aged 13 to 15, accounts are private by default and require parental consent for changes. Older teens (16 to 17) can modify settings with parental notifications. The Family Center allows parents to manage settings and monitor activities. Teens may need to verify their age if they change it on their account, and providing false information could lead to account suspension or permanent disablement. Malina Enlund, Meta's head of safety policy for the Asia Pacific region, emphasized the importance of honesty about age. The Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) supports creating a safe online environment rather than restricting access to social media, citing the 2021 UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Winsage

June 18, 2026

This $13 Windows 11 Pro offer is too good to ignore

Microsoft is currently offering Windows 11 Pro for .97, down from its regular price of 9.99, representing a discount of 0.03. Windows 11 Pro includes features such as BitLocker encryption, Hyper-V virtualization, Windows Sandbox, TPM 2.0 support, Snap Layouts, improved search functionality, multi-monitor support, and Copilot, Microsoft's AI assistant.

Tech Optimizer

June 18, 2026

Here’s What Actually Happens When Antivirus Software Scans Your PC

Interactions with antivirus software occur during installation and when issues arise, while the software operates quietly in the background. Modern antivirus solutions continuously monitor for threats using various detection methods, including real-time scanning, which actively scrutinizes files as they are downloaded or accessed. The signature database is essential for identifying malware by comparing files against known signatures, but it can only detect documented threats. Heuristic detection and behavioral analysis help catch unknown malware by evaluating suspicious characteristics and monitoring file actions during execution. Sandboxing allows suspicious files to run in a controlled environment, logging their behavior to determine if they are malicious. Quarantine neutralizes threats by locking files in a secure location, allowing users to review them before deletion. Full scans are resource-intensive and can slow down system performance, while real-time scanning is less demanding. Users can schedule scans during idle times, exclude trusted folders, or consider cloud-based solutions to mitigate performance impacts.

Tech Optimizer

June 18, 2026

Retro gaming fans are the new target for fake GitHub malware

Retro gaming enthusiasts should be cautious when exploring GitHub projects for tools or plugins, as cybercriminals may disguise malware as homebrew software. A specific incident involved a project called EQVita, which pretended to be a free audio tool for PlayStation Vita but actually contained Windows malware. The downloaded file included three files: Launch.bat, luajit.exe, and x64.txt, with the latter concealing a hidden script that connected to the attacker's server upon execution. This scam is part of a broader trend where counterfeit GitHub repositories distribute SmartLoader malware, which retrieves additional malicious software aimed at stealing passwords and cryptocurrency wallets. The PS Vita community, despite the console's production ceasing, remains active in modding, making it a target for attackers. Legitimate plugins typically come in Vita-compatible formats, while fake ones may feature polished marketing materials and AI-generated descriptions. Users are advised to verify sources, be cautious of suspicious downloads, and utilize security tools like Malwarebytes. If someone has executed the malicious EQVitav1.3.zip file, they should conduct a malware scan, change important passwords, and monitor accounts for unauthorized access. Indicators of compromise include the domains https://github.com/Voistace/EQVita and https://voistace.github.io, and the IP address 85.137.52.21.

Winsage

June 18, 2026

This $13 Windows 11 Pro offer is too good to ignore

Microsoft Windows 11 Pro is currently available for .97, reduced from its regular price of 5.00, offering a savings of 5.03. Key features include BitLocker encryption, Hyper-V virtualization, Windows Sandbox, TPM 2.0 support, and advanced authentication protections. Productivity enhancements consist of Snap Layouts, improved desktop organization, voice typing enhancements, better search functionality, and seamless multi-monitor support. The integration of Microsoft’s AI assistant, Copilot, assists with content summarization, answering queries, generating writing prompts, and coding suggestions.

AppWizard

June 16, 2026

Google brings parental controls to all Android devices

Google has rolled out an update for Android users, making parental controls accessible across all devices running Android 17. These controls allow parents to manage screen time by setting limits, establishing downtime schedules, and filtering content for Google Play downloads. Parents can also block specific applications and impose time restrictions, with changes requiring a PIN for authorization. The parental controls integrate with Google Family Link for better management of children's accounts. Additionally, Google is expanding its digital well-being fund to promote healthy technology interactions and address social isolation.

Tech Optimizer

June 16, 2026

Subscription twist: Norton 360 Deluxe adds more than just antivirus

Norton 360 Deluxe is a mid-tier security subscription from Gen Digital that offers antivirus protection, a VPN, a password manager, dark web monitoring, and parental controls for up to five devices. It includes real-time threat protection, a firewall, ransomware shielding, and cloud backup of up to 50 GB for Windows users. The parental controls, known as Norton Family, allow monitoring of children's online activities. The Secure VPN encrypts internet traffic on public Wi-Fi and masks IP addresses. The package also features PC SafeCam for webcam security and a smart firewall. Norton 360 Deluxe is marketed with a promotional first-year rate, with higher renewal prices, and is available through digital subscriptions, app stores, and major retailers. The product is designed for households and individuals seeking comprehensive security solutions.