network Archives

Winsage

April 2, 2025

6 reasons why I think Microsoft should keep the ‘local account’ option in Windows 11

Microsoft has updated Windows 11 to make it more difficult for users to bypass internet and Microsoft account requirements during installation, specifically in builds 26120.3653 and 26200.5516. The "BypassNRO.cmd" script, which allowed the creation of local accounts without an internet connection, has been removed. Local accounts provide enhanced privacy by storing data locally, simplify the setup process without needing an internet connection, and allow unrestricted access to systems in offline environments. Users can choose meaningful folder names with local accounts, and they facilitate smoother Remote Desktop connections compared to Microsoft accounts. Although local accounts can still be created post-installation, there are concerns about their availability in future updates, especially for the Home edition.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Microsoft reveals new tool to help with Windows 11 boot recovery crashes

Microsoft is piloting a Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) tool for Windows 11, available to Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel for version 24H2. QMR aims to reduce downtime from boot crashes by activating when a device encounters startup issues, transitioning to Windows Recovery Environment (Windows RE) to reconnect to the network for crash data analysis. Microsoft can then deliver solutions via Windows Update. The feature will be enabled by default on Windows 11 Home devices, while Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise administrators can manage its functionality. The initial rollout allows IT administrators to enable/disable the tool, configure scanning intervals, and conduct readiness tests. Feedback from users is encouraged to improve the tool, though a timeline for general availability has not been announced.

Tech Optimizer

April 2, 2025

When it comes to security, public Wi-Fi could be a risky choice for commuters worldwide

Research from NordVPN indicates that 47% of commuters use strong passwords or passcodes, 46% regularly update their software, 20% use privacy screen protectors, and only 17% utilize a VPN for added security while traveling.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Windows 11 Gets Quick Machine Recovery to Fix Boot Failures via the Internet

Microsoft has introduced Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) as part of its Windows Resiliency Initiative to improve the security and reliability of Windows 11 following a global incident with a faulty update. QMR addresses boot failures by allowing users to access the recovery environment, connect to the internet for automatic troubleshooting, and receive targeted fixes via Windows Update. Currently, it is being tested in the Windows 11 24H2 Insider Preview Build 26120.3653 and will be enabled by default for Home edition users. Users can access QMR by entering the recovery environment, selecting Troubleshoot, and then Advanced options. Additionally, an internet-based recovery option in Windows Settings can repair system components while preserving user data.

Tech Optimizer

April 2, 2025

Shield up to 5 devices from the evil internet with McAfee Total Protection

McAfee Total Protection offers a two-year subscription for less than , covering up to five Apple devices, significantly reduced from the regular price of 9. The subscription includes AI-powered antivirus protection, a virtual private network, web protection, identity theft protection, and personalized safety education. It also features a password manager, personal data exposure protection, and credit monitoring. This limited-time offer allows stacking of codes for up to ten years of coverage, but the software can only be added to a maximum of five devices at once.

TrendTechie

April 2, 2025

Создателя торрент-сайта и участника группы The Scene приговорили к тюрьме в Дании

A Danish court sentenced a 46-year-old man to nine months in prison for uploading about 74 terabytes of pirated films and shows to torrent trackers SuperBits and DanishBytes. A 48-year-old man received a twelve-month sentence for hosting servers that distributed pirated content linked to The Scene. Over five years, Danish law enforcement has intensified efforts against local torrent sites, convicting over twenty individuals, including uploaders and administrators. The 48-year-old illegally copied content from three streaming services specializing in Danish children's series and possessed 134 terabytes of copyrighted material. He was active in The Scene from November 2021 until his arrest in November 2023. Following the arrests, several factions of The Scene in Denmark stopped producing new content, including DKiDS, which last uploaded on November 21, 2023. Neither convicted individual profited from the distribution, and both had no prior criminal records. The volume of illegally shared content influenced the court's decisions. In summer 2020, a significant operation led to the shutdown of multiple pirate sites, with American authorities arresting key figures from The Scene.

BetaBeacon

April 2, 2025

Hurry! These Smartphone Games and Apps Are Free Right Now

The fact described in the text is that there are limited-time free Android apps and games available, including an Offline Password Manager app that securely stores passwords without unnecessary features.

AppWizard

April 2, 2025

Mullvad VPN Enables Multihop In Android App

Mullvad has introduced a multihop feature in its Android application that allows users to route their internet traffic through two distinct servers, enhancing online security and privacy. This feature creates a "tunnel within a tunnel," where data is transmitted through both an entry server and an exit server. By selecting servers in different jurisdictions, users can complicate the tracing of their data. The multihop service provides a higher level of privacy and security, as adversaries would need to execute timing attacks across multiple locations if one server is compromised. Mullvad operates under robust legal protections in Sweden and follows a strict no-logs policy, ensuring user activity is not recorded or retained.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

New Windows 11 trick lets you bypass Microsoft Account requirement

A new method allows users to bypass the Microsoft Account requirement in Windows 11 during installation. By pressing Shift+F10 at the "Let's connect you to a network" prompt and entering the command "start ms-cxh:localonly," users can create a local account. This process eliminates the need to switch to a Microsoft Account and simplifies the setup compared to previous methods. Users can verify the use of a local account after installation by checking their account name in the Start menu.

Tech Optimizer

April 1, 2025

This Antivirus Software Is So Strong That It Will Humiliate The Bad Guys Of The Cyber World (50% Off)

Bitdefender offers comprehensive protection against current and emerging online threats with a lightweight design that maintains device performance. It is currently providing a 50% discount on its multi-device bundles, including the Total Security bundle, which covers up to five devices across various platforms for an introductory price. The Internet Security and Antivirus Plus bundles are also available at discounted rates for Windows PCs. All bundles include features like File Shredder, Social Network Protection, and safe online banking through Safepay. Bitdefender utilizes advanced AI technology to predict and neutralize threats while optimizing device performance.