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Tech Optimizer

June 4, 2025

Migrate Google Cloud SQL for PostgreSQL to Amazon RDS and Amazon Aurora using pglogical

PostgreSQL is a popular open-source relational database used by enterprise developers and startups, enabling rapid prototyping and supporting mission-critical applications. Amazon RDS for PostgreSQL and Amazon Aurora PostgreSQL-Compatible Edition facilitate easy setup, operation, and scaling of PostgreSQL deployments in the AWS Cloud, automating administrative tasks like software installation, storage management, and backups. The pglogical extension, compatible with PostgreSQL versions 9.4 and higher, allows for asynchronous replication and is supported on RDS for PostgreSQL and Aurora PostgreSQL from version 12. It uses a publisher/subscriber model for logical streaming replication. To migrate a PostgreSQL database from Google Cloud SQL to RDS for PostgreSQL or Aurora PostgreSQL, users must configure the primary database in Cloud SQL, create a PostgreSQL user with replication privileges, enable logical replication parameters, and create the pglogical extension. The RDS instance also requires a special user for replication, enabling logical replication parameters and creating the pglogical extension. Known limitations of pglogical include the inability to replicate primary key changes directly, the need to manually transfer extensions, and the lack of support for materialized views and large objects. Workarounds involve using surrogate keys for primary keys, manually creating extensions, and converting large objects to bytea columns or storing them in Amazon S3. DDL statements are not automatically replicated, but can be queued using the pglogical.replicate_ddl_command function.

AppWizard

June 4, 2025

How to build a creeper farm in Minecraft | Esports News

In Minecraft, players can build a Creeper farm to obtain a reliable source of gunpowder, which is essential for crafting TNT, fireworks, and splash potions. To construct an efficient Creeper farm, players need to gather materials such as building blocks, wooden trapdoors, carpet, cat mobs, slabs, campfires or magma blocks, chests, and hoppers. The construction steps include: 1. Choosing a location elevated above sea level or over the ocean to reduce other mob spawns. 2. Creating a flat spawning platform with solid blocks, attaching trapdoors to restrict spawns to creepers, and placing carpets to prevent spider spawns. 3. Positioning domesticated cats at the center of each platform to scare creepers into the trap zone. 4. Installing campfires or magma blocks at the base to eliminate creepers and using hoppers to collect loot. 5. Adding multiple layers of platforms to increase spawn rates and using trapdoors to guide creepers off the platforms. 6. Illuminating or slabbing nearby caves to prevent unwanted mob spawns. With careful planning and execution, players can establish a self-sustaining farm for a steady supply of gunpowder.

Winsage

June 3, 2025

Windows 11 is getting some big upgrades to tackle dreaded boot failures – and help novices set up their new PC

Windows 11 has released a new preview build, 26200.5622, in the Dev channel, introducing several features aimed at improving user experience. Key additions include Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) for recovering from boot failures, a PC-to-PC migration feature for easier transitions to new devices, a new option in Phone Link to mirror Android phone screens from the Start menu, enhancements to the widgets board with a navigation bar, and a Click to Do feature for drafting text in Word using Copilot on Copilot+ PCs. These features are in early testing and may be included in the upcoming Windows 11 25H2 release.

AppWizard

June 2, 2025

So You’re Thinking About Starting a Minecraft Server… Here’s Why You Should

In Minecraft, sharing the experience with friends enhances gameplay, making dedicated servers, like those from Apex Hosting, valuable for multiplayer interactions. Players are increasingly interested in creating their own servers for collaborative play and customization. Hosting a server allows players to set their own rules, choose between public or private access, and introduce various mods and plugins for enhanced gameplay. With a personal server, the world remains accessible even when the host is offline, enabling continuous play and regular backups. Building a community takes time, but it can lead to shared experiences and memorable interactions. Apex Hosting offers an easy setup process and support for players looking to create their ideal Minecraft server.

Winsage

June 1, 2025

We installed SteamOS on our ROG Ally and Legion Go Windows handhelds and we don’t want to go back

SteamOS has been released for non-Steam Deck gaming handhelds, including the ASUS ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go. To install SteamOS, users need a USB-C stick and the SteamOS recovery image, which can be downloaded from Steam's website. The installation process involves creating a bootable USB drive using the Rufus utility, adjusting BIOS settings to disable Secure Boot, and following specific steps to wipe the device and install SteamOS. After installation, users can set up their Steam account and check for updates. The transition to SteamOS enhances performance and visual fidelity for these devices.

Tech Optimizer

June 1, 2025

Bitdefender vs. Norton: Which Antivirus Titan Reigns Supreme for Your Digital Safety?

Bitdefender was established in 1996 and rebranded in 2001, becoming the most popular mobile antivirus in North and South America in 2022. Norton was founded in 1982 and became well-known after Symantec's acquisition. Bitdefender achieves over 98% detection rates online and offline, with five false positives in tests, while Norton exceeds 99% online and 97% offline but has a higher false positive rate. Bitdefender offers a configurable firewall in its Total Security package, while Norton provides a customizable firewall across all products. Bitdefender lacks identity theft protection in its core offerings but offers a separate service, while Norton includes comprehensive identity theft protection in its highest tier. Bitdefender includes a VPN with a 200MB daily cap, while Norton offers an unlimited VPN in most tiers. Bitdefender features an integrated password manager without two-factor authentication, while Norton allows credential sharing and has standalone options. Bitdefender provides basic parental controls, while Norton includes additional features like GPS tracking. Bitdefender enhances its packages with a file shredder and vulnerability scanner, while Norton offers SafeCam and Dark Web Monitoring. Bitdefender is known for resource efficiency, receiving awards for performance, while Norton also received recognition for its performance. Bitdefender has an easy-to-navigate interface, while Norton has a more complex interface. In AV-Comparatives tests, Bitdefender slightly surpassed Norton in offline detection and online protection rates. Bitdefender pricing starts at approximately .99/year for one device, while Norton starts at .99/year for one device as well.

AppWizard

May 31, 2025

I switched to indie apps for privacy, and now my workflow is a mess

The attempt to send a file from an Android device to a Windows 11 PC highlighted the challenges of using independent applications instead of major tech tools. The user replaced several Google services with alternatives, including Sync for cloud storage, Obsidian for note-taking, ToDoist for task management, Elemental for chat, Kobo for ebooks, VLC for music, Firefox for browsing, Ecosia for search, and Fastmail for email. Fastmail was noted for its efficiency and privacy, while Sync was criticized for its reliability. The user found the experience of using multiple independent apps to be fragmented and cumbersome, leading to higher costs than anticipated. Despite ethical concerns about Big Tech, the integration and convenience they offer were acknowledged as significant advantages. Ultimately, Fastmail and ToDoist were retained, while the user returned to Google for some services, illustrating the difficulties of maintaining a fully independent digital life.

AppWizard

May 30, 2025

Pixel VIPs could be the Contacts app upgrade you didn’t know you needed (APK teardown)

Google is testing a new feature for its Contacts app called the Pixel VIPs widget, which consolidates information for up to eight selected contacts. The widget displays recent calls and messages (including from third-party apps), real-time location updates, birthday reminders, and a notes section. It is sized at 4×1 and can be added to the home screen for easy access. Users can set it up by navigating to the Contacts app, selecting the Organize tab, and tapping on Pixel VIPs. The feature is currently in development, with a potential public release coinciding with the upcoming Android 16 QPR1 update.

Winsage

May 29, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27868 (Canary Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 27868 has been released to the Canary Channel. There are no plans to release SDKs for the 27xxx series builds. The voice access feature has been enhanced with a new in-product experience to highlight new features. A fix has been implemented for pen input issues on certain PCs, and problems with launching applications like Spotify from the Microsoft Store have been addressed. A rendering issue in the Group Policy Editor for some display languages has been corrected, and a SYSTEMTHREADEXCEPTIONNOTHANDLED bugcheck issue has been fixed. Known issues include potential loss of Windows Hello PIN and biometrics for Copilot+ PCs transitioning to the Canary Channel, an Administrative Templates error in the Group Policy Editor, taskbar display issues after upgrading, and audio problems with high sampling rate devices. Applications reliant on virtualization will require the "Windows Hypervisor Platform" component when Virtualization Based Security is enabled. Search and filtering options in Task Manager are currently non-operational. Insiders in the Canary Channel should note that builds reflect early development changes and may not align with any specific Windows release. Features may not reach the general public, and a clean installation is required to exit the Canary Channel. The desktop watermark is standard for pre-release builds.

Tech Optimizer

May 29, 2025

How to run an antivirus scan on your computer

When selecting antivirus software, understanding its functionality is crucial to ensure adequate protection. Running a virus scan involves opening the antivirus program, clicking the ‘Scan’ button, and allowing the software to operate. Automated scan schedules are important for consistent protection, especially during system startup to catch hidden malware. Key points for executing scans include avoiding heavy applications during the scan, utilizing the ability to pause scans, and ensuring laptops are charged and plugged in. During scans, the antivirus may identify potentially unwanted programs (PUPs), which should not be dismissed. After a scan, reviewing the results is essential, including threat names, severity ratings, affected files, and recommended actions. If threats are detected, correlating them with known vulnerabilities is advisable. Some malware may require a device restart or boot-time scanning for removal. Maintaining exportable logs can be beneficial for future reference. Post-scan, it is important to patch operating systems, change passwords if necessary, perform system backups, and establish a regular backup plan. Most antivirus programs offer features for automated scans and real-time protection, which should be utilized. Regular checks of reports are necessary to stay informed about device security. To maintain virus-free devices, users should avoid unknown links or email attachments, download software from legitimate sources, use strong passwords, back up important files, keep browsers updated, and enable multi-factor authentication. Regular virus scans are vital for safeguarding online presence and preventing performance issues.