self-service Archives

Winsage

April 22, 2025

These 7 WSL programs changed how I use Windows

Windows users previously faced challenges using Linux tools via virtual machines until the introduction of the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), which was further improved with WSL2. WSL2 integrates a lightweight virtual machine into Windows, allowing users to run Linux applications seamlessly. Runtipi and CasaOS can be easily set up on WSL2 to host self-service applications without complex configurations. Visual Studio Code (VS Code) offers a WSL extension that enables code execution directly in Linux distributions from Windows, enhancing the coding experience. Gigolo is a frontend for managing network shares, which can also be integrated into Windows 11 through WSL2. Ansible can automate the provisioning of virtual machines and containers on WSL2, making it easier for users engaged in DIY projects. Rsync can be installed via WSL2 for efficient file synchronization and backups on Windows. Podman Desktop allows Windows users to explore container runtimes using WSL2, providing a GUI for managing containers. Lastly, WSL2 enables users to access the Linux terminal and run various Linux distributions directly within Windows 11.

Tech Optimizer

March 1, 2025

I compared Norton vs McAfee’s antivirus software to see which one is best

Norton 360 provides robust malware protection, including features to combat malicious email attachments, phishing attacks, and ransomware, with a Community Watch program for enhanced threat detection. McAfee uses a cloud-based infrastructure and machine learning for threat identification, with a malware scanner that analyzes suspicious code on its servers. Norton excels in malware detection but has some false positives, while McAfee achieved a perfect score in detecting existing malware and zero-day exploits, also with some false positives. Norton includes a two-way firewall, password manager, and 2GB of online storage, while McAfee focuses on phishing protection and personal data privacy tools, often at an additional cost. Benchmark tests show Norton has minimal system impact, while McAfee significantly slows down during full scans. Norton offers two interface options and is user-friendly, while McAfee's interface is simple but lacks customization. McAfee has a quick installation process under five minutes and 24/7 support, while Norton’s installation is longer but includes conflict checking and extensive support options. Ultimately, Norton is noted for comprehensive security features and performance, while McAfee is recognized for its user-friendly interface and quick installation.

Tech Optimizer

February 4, 2025

Modern PostgreSQL Deployment: 3 Cloud Native Approaches You Should Know

PostgreSQL is currently the fourth most popular database globally, according to Statista, with increasing adoption highlighted in the 2023 State of PostgreSQL Survey. It has evolved significantly since its inception in 1990, leading to innovative cloud-native deployment approaches. Kubernetes Deployment with CloudNativePG: Deploying PostgreSQL on Kubernetes is preferred in cloud-native environments. Helm charts simplify initial deployment but struggle with day-two operations. CloudNativePG, an open-source Kubernetes operator developed by EDB and now community-driven, focuses on simplicity and data safety, supporting synchronous replication and automated failover. It was recently submitted as a CNCF Sandbox project. Self-Service with Cloud Foundry Marketplace for Korifi: Platform engineering has increased the demand for self-service capabilities. Korifi, utilizing Kubernetes, offers a developer-centric experience by abstracting Kubernetes complexities. The Cloud Foundry Marketplace allows users to deploy pre-built applications, including PostgreSQL, with a simple command. Separating Compute and Storage with Neon: Neon offers a serverless approach that decouples storage from computing, addressing scalability and resource utilization challenges in traditional PostgreSQL deployments. It features a distributed architecture and allows for instant cloning and branching of databases, similar to Git.

Winsage

December 4, 2024

Diebold Nixdorf deploys Microsoft Windows 11 on ATMs

Diebold Nixdorf has integrated Microsoft Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2024 into live ATMs in collaboration with Eurasian Bank and Kapital Bank in Central Asia. This deployment, executed with BS/2, aims to enhance customer experiences by improving security, speed, and usability while ensuring regulatory compliance. The integration guarantees support until October 2034 and includes the DN Series ATMs and Vynamic software. Diebold Nixdorf has a workforce of approximately 21,000 and serves many of the world's top 100 financial institutions. Piraeus, a Greek financial services company, plans to transition over 1,200 self-service devices to Diebold Nixdorf’s DN Series cash recycling ATMs, which utilize AI and machine learning for improved performance.

Winsage

November 20, 2024

Microsoft debuts new Copilot software, touts AI growth at Ignite Conference

Microsoft unveiled significant updates to its cloud and AI services at the Ignite conference in Chicago, including enhancements to Microsoft 365 Copilot, new AI agents, and plans to use Nvidia’s Blackwell GB200-powered AI servers. Nearly 70% of the Fortune 500 now use Microsoft 365 Copilot. New features include Copilot Actions for summarizing meetings and consolidating communications, and advanced AI agents like the Interpreter for Teams and Employee Self-Service Agent. Microsoft introduced the Azure AI Foundry SDK for building AI applications and announced the Windows 365 Link, a compact PC for cloud services, set to retail for starting in April 2025. The company also launched the Microsoft Security Exposure Management platform and enhanced security for AI applications with the Data Loss Prevention feature for Microsoft 365 Copilot. Microsoft’s shares have increased by 12% over the past year.

Tech Optimizer

October 23, 2024

Microsoft Defender review

Microsoft Defender has evolved from a basic antivirus tool to a comprehensive security solution, featuring parental controls, malware scanning, behavioral monitoring, email scanning, a password manager, and a secure browser. Launched in June 2022, Defender for Individuals, part of a Microsoft 365 subscription, offers benefits like dark web scanning, identity protection, and online storage (1TB for individuals, up to 6TB for families). The subscription costs for one user and is free for six users. Defender protects Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices, with new Windows PCs pre-installed with it. It includes advanced behavioral analysis, malware scanning, Secure Boot safeguarding, sandboxing, memory-integrity monitoring, and email attachment screening. Defender automatically scans when the system is idle and integrates with Microsoft OneDrive for data backup. It has achieved high scores in third-party evaluations, matching competitors like Bitdefender and Kaspersky with a 99.9% success rate in detecting known threats, though it struggles with zero-day attacks. Defender includes a built-in firewall, Smart App Control, and Edge browser security features. Its system impact can be resource-intensive during full scans, while quick scans are less demanding. The Windows Security Center serves as the hub for its features, and installation is automatic on new PCs, with robust support options available.

Winsage

July 19, 2024

Windows/CrowdStrike outage recap: Today’s ‘Blue Screen of Death’ error explained

A global IT outage has caused Windows workstations and terminals to show 'DRIVEROVERRANSTACK_BUFFER' Blue Screen of Death errors, leading to disruptions in airlines, stores, TV stations, and internet services worldwide. Airlines like Delta, United, and American Airlines have grounded planes due to communication issues, while stores and online services have also been impacted. CrowdStrike has released a fix for the issue, but major financial institutions like banks and credit card companies are still experiencing outage reports. Mac and Linux systems were not affected by the outage, highlighting the world's dependence on the Windows operating system. Healthcare services have also been impacted, with hospitals around the world facing disruptions in patient care.

Tech Optimizer

July 6, 2024

Nutanix and EDB Partner to Deliver a Modern Data Platform

Nutanix and EnterpriseDB have announced an expanded partnership to enable customers to leverage PostgreSQL for their most data-intensive and secure applications.

Tech Optimizer

July 6, 2024

EDB Builds Best-in-Class Network of Strategic Alliances to Further Advance Postgres for the AI Generation

EnterpriseDB has announced strategic alliances with Nutanix, Red Hat, and SADA to enhance data and cloud agility for joint customers in building AI-driven applications.

AppWizard

July 4, 2024

Android Kiosk Software Market Is Booming So Rapidly | Major Giants Samsung Knox, Hexnode, KioWare

The Android Kiosk Software market size is estimated to reach USD 42.4 Billion at a CAGR of 6.27% by 2030, with the current market value at USD 26.3 Billion. Businesses are increasingly adopting kiosk solutions to streamline operations, reduce labor costs, and improve service speed.