peace Archives

Winsage

November 1, 2024

How to use Windows 11 Volume Shadow Copy for backing up files

Windows 11 includes a feature called Shadow Copy, which allows users to create backups of files and maintain a history of previous versions. To set up Shadow Copy, users must use Task Scheduler to automate backups. The process involves creating a new task, configuring triggers and actions, and ensuring specific settings are enabled. Backed-up files are stored in a hidden folder and can be accessed through the Previous Versions feature in File Explorer. Users can also utilize System Restore and File History for additional backup options. Shadow Copy has been part of Windows for over two decades and is designed to protect against accidental deletions or modifications, but not against hardware failures or theft.

AppWizard

October 30, 2024

Google tipped to be more ‘mindful’ with this Digital Wellbeing upgrade

A recent beta version (v1.19.6881) of Google's Digital Wellbeing app has revealed a new feature called "Mindful Nudge," which provides users with occasional reminders about their app usage time. This feature is part of Google's ongoing efforts to promote digital wellness, which began with the app's introduction in 2018. The app currently offers insights into total screen time and app usage, along with features like bedtime mode and focus mode. Additionally, Android 15, launched on October 15, focuses on refining the software experience with improved multitasking and user interface enhancements, as well as new "Theft Protection" features. Google is also developing a notification system that may resemble Apple's Dynamic Island, potentially displaying app icons and relevant information in a new user interface format.

AppWizard

October 25, 2024

Android app permissions explained and how to use them

Since Android 6.0 Marshmallow, users have control over app permissions, allowing them to manage what information and features apps can access. Android app permissions determine an application's access to device functionalities, such as reading SMS messages, using the camera, or accessing location data. Users must approve permission requests through on-screen prompts when launching an app for the first time. Permissions can be modified later through the Apps menu, where users can see which permissions have been granted or denied. Permissions include access to body sensors, calendar events, call logs, camera, contacts, files and media, location, microphone, nearby devices, notifications, phone information, physical activity logs, and SMS. Users can also check permissions by type in the Privacy tab of the Settings menu, allowing them to see how many apps have requested each permission. It is advisable to deny unnecessary permissions, especially for apps that request access that does not align with their functionality. Android 12 introduced features for enhanced transparency, allowing users to disable camera and microphone permissions for all apps and receive notifications when these features are accessed. The Privacy Dashboard provides insights into app permissions used over the past 24 hours. Android 13 added a photo picker feature for sharing specific media without granting full file system access.

Tech Optimizer

October 25, 2024

Best Antivirus Deals: Protect your PC or Mac from just $35

This article discusses various antivirus software options available for purchase, highlighting their features and discounts. - NortonLifeLock 360 Deluxe is 61% off, supports multiple devices, offers 50GB of cloud backup, includes a VPN, Dark Web Monitoring, a password manager, and Smart Firewall. - Malwarebytes 4.0 Complete Protection is 50% off, compatible with three devices, features quick scans, customizable protection levels, and uses AI for threat detection. - BitDefender Premium Security is 30% off, protects multiple devices, includes advanced threat detection, a secure VPN, anti-tracker extension, and privacy features like microphone and webcam protection. - McAfee McAfee+ Advanced is 55% off, provides identity monitoring, up to million in identity theft coverage, a firewall, secure VPN, password manager, file shredder, and parental controls.

AppWizard

October 24, 2024

Best Android app price drops and freebies: Defense Legend 5 Pro, SpongeBob, Anodyne, more

A selection of Android game and app deals is available, including a price reduction on the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6. A complimentary TP-Link Google magnetic smart cam is offered with purchases, and the OnePlus Pad 2 comes with free OnePlus Buds Pro 3. The 40mm Galaxy Watch 7 is at an all-time low price on Amazon. Featured apps and games include Defense Legend 5 Pro, SpongeBob SquarePants, Rush Rally Origins, and Anodyne.

Tech Optimizer

October 21, 2024

Review: FixMeStick is an easy way to protect computers from malware

The FixMeStick is a plug-and-play antivirus tool designed to identify and eliminate infections that bypass standard antivirus software, reboot the system to remove infections, and function alongside existing antivirus solutions. It is simple to set up, requiring users to plug it into a USB port and follow clear instructions. The initial scan takes about five minutes, while a more comprehensive scan lasts approximately an hour. In testing, the FixMeStick identified a legitimate virus from an executable file associated with a PDF reader. Although there was no immediate performance improvement, it provides peace of mind and encourages regular use as a supplementary security measure. The FixMeStick features an intuitive interface but operates on a subscription model, which may not appeal to all users. It is recommended for those looking for an effective method to check for malware.

AppWizard

October 19, 2024

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 gets January 2025 release date on PC

Spider-Man 2 will be released on PC on January 30th, featuring the original game and all post-launch updates, including 14 new suits, New Game+, Ultimate Levels, new Symbiote Suit Styles, Time of Day options, Post-Game Achievements, Action Figure Mode in Photo Mode, and accessibility features like Screen Reader and Audio Descriptions. There will be a standard edition and a Digital Deluxe Edition, the latter including ten exclusive suits, early access to specific suits and gadgets, and additional skill points. Pre-ordering the standard edition grants access to some exclusive items as well. Pricing details have not been announced, and both versions will be available on Steam and the Epic Games Store.

Tech Optimizer

October 18, 2024

Compare Antivirus Software 2025: Bitdefender vs ESET

Bitdefender and ESET Antivirus are two prominent antivirus solutions with various features. Bitdefender: - Lowest Annual Price: .99 for the first year; .99 thereafter - Supported Operating Systems: Windows, MacOS, and Android - Maximum Number of Devices Supported: 25 - Firewall: Yes - Malware Detection Rates: 100% - Overall Rating: 3/5 - Pricing: 2/5 - Core Features: 5/5 - Advanced Features & Integrations: 5/5 - Customer Support: 3/5 - Impact on Device Performance: 2/5 - Trustworthiness: 2/5 - Pros: Strong independent testing results, non-intrusive notifications, daily scans - Cons: Can slow down device performance, expensive add-ons, turning off auto-renewal may limit access to features ESET Antivirus: - Lowest Annual Price: .99 - Supported Operating Systems: Windows, MacOS, and Android - Maximum Number of Devices Supported: 10 - Firewall: Yes, at middle and highest pricing tiers - Malware Detection Rates: 100% - Overall Rating: 3.5/5 - Pricing: 2/5 - Core Features: 4/5 - Advanced Features & Integrations: 5/5 - Customer Support: 4/5 - Impact on Device Performance: 2/5 - Trustworthiness: 3/5 - Pros: Customizable Device Control features, high scores in independent testing - Cons: Complex for less technical users, relatively expensive, significant impact on device performance Both solutions offer a free trial of 30 days. While Bitdefender has a slight edge in core and advanced features, ESET excels in customer support. The choice between the two may depend on individual user needs. Alternatives include Microsoft Defender and Malwarebytes.

AppWizard

October 16, 2024

Android 15 now makes Pixel phones a fortress against thieves and fraudsters

Android 15 has launched for Pixel phone users, following the release of its source code. Key features include one-touch passkeys for easier app access, enhanced theft protection with Theft Detection Lock, refined multitasking for larger screens, and the ability to pin or unpin the taskbar on foldable devices and tablets. It also improves access to Google Photos and Gmail, introduces single-tap passkeys with autofill, upgrades the Low Light Boost feature for in-app camera controls, and allows carrier messaging apps to connect via satellite. This update coincides with the October Pixel Feature Drop, adding further enhancements.

AppWizard

October 15, 2024

Android adds 3 anti-theft security features to your phone, with more on the way

Google is enhancing Android's security framework with three new anti-theft features: Theft Detection Lock, Offline Device Lock, and Remote Lock. These features are rolling out and will be available on most devices running Android 10 and above. They are not enabled by default and must be activated manually in the settings app. The Theft Detection Lock uses AI to detect suspicious movements and automatically locks the device if theft is suspected. The Offline Device Lock locks the screen of devices that remain offline for an extended period. The Remote Lock allows users to secure their device using just a verified phone number. Additionally, Android 15 will require authentication for modifying sensitive settings and will lock devices after multiple failed login attempts. Future plans include the Identity Check feature, which will require biometric verification for critical changes. These security features are opt-in and may not be available on all devices, such as those running Android Go.