protection Archives

Winsage

November 8, 2024

How (and why) to roll back Windows updates on your PC

Windows update KB5043145 caused some users to experience the blue screen of death instead of performance improvements. Before rolling back updates, users should check for adequate hard drive space, restart the system, attempt to reinstall updates, disconnect non-essential hardware, check for conflicts in Device Manager, ensure antivirus software is not interfering, and verify that the Windows Update service is activated. To troubleshoot update issues, Windows 11 users can run the Windows Update troubleshooter from Settings, while Windows 10 users can access it through Update & Security. Users can also utilize system restore points to revert to a previous state, use the Reset Windows Update Tool to repair update components, manually install updates from the Microsoft update catalog, or reset and restart update services via command prompt. If all else fails, reinstalling Windows may be necessary, though it could result in data loss.

Tech Optimizer

November 7, 2024

4 reasons why Windows Security alone isn’t enough to protect your PC

Microsoft's Windows Security suite, also known as Windows Defender, has evolved since 2006 into a more robust security tool. However, it has limitations: 1. Web protection is limited to Microsoft Edge, with the SmartScreen feature not available for Chrome or Firefox users. 2. There is no built-in VPN; a VPN service is only available through a paid Microsoft 365 subscription with a 50 GB monthly data cap. 3. It lacks an integrated password manager, leaving users to rely on third-party solutions for password management. 4. For business users, it does not provide endpoint protection or automated response capabilities, which are essential for recovering from attacks like ransomware or DDoS. Microsoft offers Defender for Endpoint as a paid service, but many businesses may still need third-party antivirus solutions for comprehensive protection.

Tech Optimizer

November 7, 2024

TotalAV vs PCProtect: Which Is the Best Antivirus?

TotalAV offers superior protection and user experience compared to PCProtect, with affordability enhancing its appeal. TotalAV blocked all prepared malware samples and nine out of ten wild samples in tests, while PCProtect missed two prepared and three wild samples, achieving a 75% effectiveness score. TotalAV features an intuitive interface, effective password manager, and superior VPN, while PCProtect's interface could benefit from redesign. TotalAV provides three pricing options, with the basic version covering four devices, making it more cost-effective than PCProtect, which is available for three devices. Both antivirus programs support Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. TotalAV has received high ratings from AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives, while PCProtect has not been evaluated by leading cybersecurity firms.

Winsage

November 6, 2024

5 tips for setting up BitLocker on Windows to secure your files

BitLocker drive encryption is a feature in Windows 11 that protects files from unauthorized access by encrypting the drive. It is enabled by default in Windows 11 Pro and higher editions, while a limited version is available in Windows 11 Home. Windows 11 automatically encrypts all fixed drives upon connection, and users should verify that all permanently attached drives are encrypted. Users can set drives to automatically unlock on the current PC or protect them with a password. BitLocker is a Windows-specific feature, making encrypted external drives inaccessible on other operating systems like macOS or Linux. Recovery keys for BitLocker-encrypted drives are automatically backed up for users with a Microsoft account, and it is recommended to create a Microsoft account for easier access to recovery keys. Users should also keep a second backup of the recovery key in case of internet outages, which can be printed or saved as a digital file.

AppWizard

November 5, 2024

Upcoming Google Play update could strengthen protection against harmful apps (APK teardown)

Google is developing a feature for its Play Store that allows users to temporarily pause Play Protect for one day instead of disabling it completely. This feature aims to enhance user safety by automatically reactivating Play Protect after the pause period and includes a warning prompt about potential scams when users attempt to pause or turn off the security feature. The feature is expected to be available to users in the near future.

Winsage

November 5, 2024

Microsoft Windows User Warning—50 Million Of You Are Now At Risk

Microsoft has extended the end-of-life deadline for Windows 10 from October 2025 to October 2026, but this extension comes with a fee that is not universally applicable. Approximately 50 million Windows users are at risk and need to take action to protect their systems. Recent data shows that around 50 million users have migrated from Windows 10 to Windows 11, causing Windows 10's market share to drop just above 60% and Windows 11's to rise to nearly 36%. There are still around 850 million Windows 10 PCs that have not transitioned, with about 400 million unable to upgrade. Microsoft warns that unsupported versions of Windows do not receive software updates, including security updates. The company is preparing for a potential increase in new PC purchases in 2025, driven by an anticipated upgrade boom to Windows 11. Microsoft is also enhancing Windows 11 with security features to protect against cyber threats.

Winsage

November 3, 2024

Your Windows 10 PC can’t be upgraded? You have 5 options before support ends in 2025

Windows 10 will reach its end-of-support date on October 14, 2025, after which it will no longer receive updates, including security patches. Users can choose to continue using Windows 10, buy new hardware, switch to a Linux distribution or ChromeOS Flex, pay for Extended Security Options (ESUs) from Microsoft, or attempt to upgrade incompatible hardware to Windows 11 despite potential risks. The final version of Windows 10, 22H2, will receive monthly security updates until the end-of-support date.

Tech Optimizer

November 3, 2024

The best antivirus software options

All products featured are independently selected by editors and writers, and Mashable may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on their site. Antivirus software is designed to identify and eliminate viruses and malware, preventing potential damage to devices. Malware is a broad category that includes viruses, which are a subset of malware. Computer viruses replicate and spread across devices, infecting applications and emails, and can cause various types of damage. Anti-malware software offers broader protection against a variety of attacks compared to antivirus software. Key features to consider when selecting antivirus software include phishing protection, spyware and adware scanning, on-demand malware scans, and vulnerability scanning. It is advisable to upgrade from pre-installed antivirus software to more advanced solutions. Investing in quality antivirus software is important for protecting computers and sensitive data.

AppWizard

November 2, 2024

The fourth two items in the “Minecraft” series of Nintendo Switch licensed accessories are now available! The items will be available from late November 2024!

Happinet Co., Ltd. is releasing two new Nintendo Switch accessories inspired by Minecraft in late November 2024: a Combination Pouch and a Card Case. The Combination Pouch is designed to hold the Nintendo Switch console and accessories, featuring Minecraft-themed designs, durable materials, and internal dividers for organization. Its suggested retail price is 2,680 yen (excluding tax) and it has a model number of HEGP-09MCCD. The Card Case can hold up to 24 Nintendo Switch game cards, offering protection in a compact design with Minecraft character themes. Its suggested retail price is 1,300 yen (excluding tax) and it has a model number of HACF-02MCCD. Both products will be available at retail locations and online, with more details on the Max Games website.

Winsage

November 2, 2024

Why You Should Buy A New Microsoft Windows PC In 2025

Microsoft has announced that Windows 10 will not reach its end-of-life in October 2025 as previously anticipated. Users will have the option to extend their security updates for an additional year at a cost, with the final deadline now set for October 2026. Recent reports indicate a modest growth of 1.3% in global PC sales in the third quarter, while IDC noted a year-over-year decline of 2.4%, totaling 68.8 million traditional PC shipments. Manufacturers are hoping for a surge in sales as consumers rush to purchase new machines before the October 2026 deadline. Microsoft emphasizes the enhanced security features of Windows 11, which include hardware-based protection and improved defenses against cyber threats.