Optimization Archives

Winsage

August 24, 2025

LibreOffice 25.8 Drops Windows 7-8.1 Support, Adds Speed and AES-256 Encryption

LibreOffice 25.8 has been released by The Document Foundation, ending support for Windows 7, 8, and 8.1, meaning users on these operating systems will no longer receive updates or security patches. The new version requires a minimum of Windows 10 and includes performance enhancements, such as faster document loading and improved interoperability with Microsoft formats. Security upgrades include AES-256 encryption and PDF 2.0 export capabilities. The decision to discontinue support for older Windows versions reflects a broader industry trend towards modernization and innovation. Future versions will also require macOS 11 or later. Users on outdated systems are encouraged to evaluate alternatives or stick with earlier versions.

AppWizard

August 24, 2025

I couldn’t find an ideal pet app, so I used Notion instead

A devoted cat owner faced challenges in managing vaccination schedules and health notes for their pets, leading to the use of Notion as a pet care management tool. The owner found existing pet care apps lacking in functionality and opted for Notion due to its customizable templates, reminders feature, and cross-device compatibility. They created a pet care page using the Pet Care Planner template, setting up profiles for their cats, Black Velvet and Loxi, and incorporating health information, medication details, and vet notes. Notion's database capabilities allowed for effective tracking of expenses and health incidents, especially with Loxi's diagnosis of Stage 2 Chronic Kidney disease. The owner also noted some limitations of Notion's free plan, such as restrictions on automations and mobile optimization issues, but found it effective for documenting health incidents and setting reminders. Future plans include expanding the template to manage pet-related chores.

Tech Optimizer

August 22, 2025

pgEdge updates Postgres Cloud for higher resilience and faster Sync

pgEdge has launched the latest version of pgEdge Cloud, a Database as a Service (DBaaS) based on open-source PostgreSQL, optimized for multi-cloud region deployments. Key features include multi-availability zone support for enhanced fault tolerance and high availability, expanded automatic conflict resolution capabilities, and performance improvements such as in-memory exception handling and expedited replication processes. pgEdge has also achieved SOC 2 Type II certification for security and compliance. The new pgEdge Cloud is available for free sign-up, allowing developers to build enterprise-class distributed Postgres applications globally.

Tech Optimizer

August 21, 2025

New Malvertising Attack Spreads Crypto Stealing PS1Bot Malware

Cisco Talos researchers have identified a new malware framework called PS1Bot, active since early 2025, which spreads primarily through malvertising. PS1Bot is crafted using PowerShell and can steal sensitive information, log keystrokes, take screenshots, and gain unauthorized control over systems. It is capable of extracting passwords, browser cookies, and cryptocurrency wallet seed phrases. The malware operates stealthily using in-memory execution to avoid detection by antivirus software and checks for antivirus presence before launching attacks. It spreads through malicious online advertising, where users may download a compressed file containing the malware. Cisco Talos has noted ongoing enhancements to PS1Bot, with similarities to other malware families suggesting a connection among cybercriminals.

Tech Optimizer

August 21, 2025

The Best Antivirus for Gaming PCs in 2025: 6 Top Picks Compared

McAfee has enhanced its offerings for gaming PCs, providing robust real-time protection and firewall capabilities that block threats without affecting performance. The Gamer Security version is now integrated within McAfee+ tiers and prioritizes CPU resources during gaming sessions. However, it uses more system resources compared to alternatives like Malwarebytes and Panda Dome, and some features, such as VPN and identity monitoring, are only available in higher-tier plans. The McAfee plans include: - McAfee Free Tools: Limited tools like web protection and password manager trials (Free) - McAfee+ Premium Individual: Real-time protection, VPN, password manager (.99 first year) - McAfee+ Advanced Individual: Adds identity monitoring and personal data cleanup (.99 first year) - McAfee+ Unlimited Individual: Adds identity theft coverage and security freeze tools (.99 first year) Key considerations for antivirus software for gaming PCs include performance impact, robust threat detection, dedicated gaming mode, resource usage, false positives, user interface, cross-device security, and customer support. Gaming PCs are susceptible to malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks, making reliable antivirus solutions essential. Panda Dome is highlighted as a suitable option for gamers, offering real-time protection, a dedicated gaming mode, and minimal resource usage. Free antivirus options can be used while gaming but may lack advanced features. It is not advisable to disable antivirus software during gaming, and running antivirus can slightly reduce FPS. Gaming mode enhances the gaming experience by pausing background scans and notifications. The best antivirus for gaming should have real-time protection, low resource usage, a gaming mode, robust threat detection, ransomware protection, a VPN, and password managers. Some antivirus software may block online game servers, but most have an allowlist function. Streamers should also use antivirus software while live to protect against additional risks. Antivirus programs can detect cheat software or malicious mods, especially if they contain malware.

Tech Optimizer

August 20, 2025

I tested the best antivirus software for Windows: Here’s what I’d use to protect my PC

Windows Security is a free antivirus program pre-installed on every Windows PC, offering solid protection. Bitdefender provides a comprehensive antivirus solution with a yearly subscription. Malwarebytes is recommended as the top antivirus choice for Windows users, featuring a user-friendly interface and both free and paid versions. TotalAV is an affordable option with a built-in VPN and system tune-up tool. McAfee Total Protection offers extensive features, including identity theft coverage. Avast One is designed for gamers, providing a Do Not Disturb mode. uBlock Origin is an ad blocker that enhances browser security, while Brave is a secure web browser with built-in tracking and ad blocking features.

AppWizard

August 19, 2025

Monster Hunter Wilds’ Free Title Update 4 to include large-scale PC optimization improvements

Capcom is set to release Free Title Update 4 for Monster Hunter Wilds this winter, focusing on enhancements for PC gamers. The update will optimize CPU and GPU performance, addressing issues like crashes, low frame rates, and gameplay stability. It will introduce one new monster and more challenging hunts, prioritizing performance improvements over weapon adjustments. Gradual improvements will be implemented in the weeks leading up to the update.

Winsage

August 19, 2025

Windows 11 upgrade possible for older models: TPM 2.0 apparently not mandatory

BornCity is an innovative company in urban development, focusing on creating smart, livable spaces through technology and sustainability. Its projects utilize IoT technology for energy optimization, prioritize green building materials and renewable energy, and involve local communities in planning. BornCity aims to enhance quality of life and set new standards for urban planning while positioning itself as a leader in adapting to urban dynamics and promoting environmental stewardship.

AppWizard

August 19, 2025

Capcom has good news and bad news: it’s aware Monster Hunter Wilds kinda sucks on PC and has “a multifaceted plan” to fix it with CPU and GPU optimizations, but it’s targeting “this winter”

Monster Hunter Wilds has been experiencing performance issues on PC for several months, which Capcom has acknowledged. The company is working on solutions and plans to implement optimizations starting this winter with Free Title Update 4. Capcom's commitment includes addressing CPU and GPU-related problems, with gradual improvements expected in the coming weeks. Player feedback has led to a drop in the game's Steam rating to 'overwhelmingly negative,' which has since improved to 'mostly negative.' Capcom is also facing challenges related to Dragon's Dogma 2 on PC, impacting its reputation. Additionally, there is ongoing debate among players about whether Capcom has moved away from the classic charm of the franchise.

Tech Optimizer

August 18, 2025

EDB AI Platform to Be Integrated with NVIDIA

EnterpriseDB has enhanced its EDB Postgres AI platform by integrating NVIDIA's accelerated computing and AI software, aiming to improve AI and data platform capabilities built on PostgreSQL. The integration provides a secure, high-performance environment for generative and agentic AI solutions while ensuring enterprise-grade governance and cost efficiency. Key performance improvements include a 2-3x throughput increase for data embedding tasks, a 5-2x enhancement for retrieval performance, and up to 30x faster insights from data through optimized AI pipelines. This results in significant cost savings compared to traditional cloud-native AI stacks. EDB, as an NVIDIA NPN partner, has access to NVIDIA's latest software innovations. Nancy Hensley, Chief Product Officer of EDB, highlighted the importance of sovereignty in enterprise AI. Currently, only 13 percent of major enterprises achieve sustainable ROI from their AI initiatives, but 90 percent plan to develop their own AI and data platforms in the next three years, emphasizing the need for sovereign AI to overcome infrastructure fragmentation and control data and AI models.