small business Archives

AppWizard

June 7, 2025

I’m quitting PC Gamer to run a vending machine empire in the back streets of Japan after my idle game obsession shadow-dropped at the Wholesome Direct

The author became interested in managing a vending machine business in Japan after playing a demo of the game Vending Dokan!: Kozy Kiosk. The full version was announced immediately after a showcase, prompting the author to continue exploring the virtual vending business. The game offers a tranquil experience of overseeing a vending machine in a Japanese alleyway, which has inspired the author to consider real-life vending machine ventures and explore online vending machine auctions.

Tech Optimizer

May 27, 2025

Microsoft Defender vs Bitdefender: Compare Antivirus Software

eSecurity Planet maintains editorial independence in content and product recommendations, ensuring financial gain from partner links does not influence information integrity. Microsoft Defender and Bitdefender are prominent small business security providers. Microsoft Defender is ideal for larger SMBs, starting at .00 per user per month, while Bitdefender is suited for startups with over 10 employees, starting at .33 per user per month. Microsoft Defender Overview: - Overall Rating: 3.7/5 - Pricing: 4.4/5 - Features: 3.4/5 - Ease of Use and Administration: 3.8/5 - Customer Support: 3.7/5 - Features include next-gen antivirus, vulnerability management, and EDR. Bitdefender Overview: - Overall Rating: 3.4/5 - Pricing: 3.8/5 - Features: 3/5 - Ease of Use and Administration: 3.4/5 - Customer Support: 4/5 - Features include identity protection, a VPN, and a password manager. Pricing Comparison: - Microsoft Defender: Free Trial: 90 days; Least Expensive Plan: .00/user/month; Mid-Range Plan: .50/user/month; Most Expensive Plan: .00/user/month. - Bitdefender: 30-day money-back guarantee; Least Expensive Plan: .33/user/month; Mid-Range Plan: Not specified; Most Expensive Plan: Not specified. Feature Comparison: - Microsoft Defender offers robust endpoint protection but lacks clarity on web browsing protection and ad-blocking. - Bitdefender offers identity exposure protection, a VPN, and a password manager but also lacks web browsing and ad-blocking features. Ease of Use and Administration: - Microsoft Defender supports macOS, Windows, and Linux Server; Bitdefender supports macOS and Windows but lacks Linux support. Customer Support Comparison: - Microsoft provides phone and live chat support; Bitdefender offers email and chat support, with limited phone support for small business users. Alternative Solutions include Norton, McAfee, and Trend Micro, each offering different features and pricing structures. Evaluation Methodology focused on pricing, features, ease of use, and customer support, with Microsoft winning in pricing, features, and ease of use, while Bitdefender excelled in customer support.

Winsage

May 25, 2025

Exclusive Memorial Day tech deals on Microsoft software for less than $10

Small business owners can take advantage of exclusive offers on Microsoft software, using the coupon code WINDOWS to purchase select products for just .97 until Tuesday, May 27. - Microsoft Windows 11 Home, normally priced at 139, is available for .97. - Microsoft Windows 11 Pro, originally 199, can be secured for .97. - Microsoft Project Professional 2021, typically 999.99, is offered for .97. - Microsoft Visio 2021 Professional, usually 999.99, is available for .97. Upon placing an order, customers will receive an instant redemption code and instructions via email to redeem their software purchase.

Tech Optimizer

May 14, 2025

Best Antivirus Software (2025): ESET Recognized as Top Cybersecurity Solution by Software Experts

ESET is recognized as a leading antivirus provider in 2025, known for its robust security solutions that effectively combat rising cyber threats such as phishing, ransomware, and zero-day exploits. The company's offerings include heuristic and behavioral detection, ransomware and phishing protection, exploit blocker technology, and low resource usage, ensuring minimal impact on system performance. ESET provides various products for home users, including ESET HOME Security Essential, Premium, and Ultimate, as well as a Small Business Security package for up to 25 devices and scalable solutions for larger organizations. Pricing for home products starts at .99/year, with multi-device and multi-year discounts available. ESET operates in over 200 countries, utilizing a global network for real-time threat intelligence and maintaining a commitment to effective digital security since its establishment in 1992.

Tech Optimizer

May 12, 2025

MySQL at 30: Still important but no longer king

MySQL was created by Swedish developer Michael “Monty” Widenius in 1995 and became fully open-sourced under the GPL license by 2000. It emerged as a key component of the LAMP stack, offering a free and easily installable database solution that appealed to web developers, particularly during the 2000s when many startups adopted it. Major platforms like Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and Flickr utilized MySQL for managing user data and content. Initially, MySQL had limitations, such as lacking full SQL compliance and robust transaction support, but its speed and simplicity made it accessible for developers. By the mid-2000s, MySQL introduced the InnoDB storage engine, enhancing its capabilities and solidifying its popularity. Projections for 2025 indicate that MySQL will remain the most widely deployed database globally, with numerous applications still using it today.

Winsage

May 2, 2025

Microsoft is pulling the plug on Windows 10 — here’s what you need to do

A limited-time offer allows users to purchase a Windows 11 Pro key for .97, down from its regular price of 9. This promotion enables upgrades for two compatible PCs. Windows 11 Pro features a user-friendly installation process, a lifetime license with no ongoing fees, productivity enhancements like snap layouts and virtual desktops, and robust security measures including biometric login and device encryption. It also includes an AI-powered assistant, Copilot, to help optimize workflows. Support for Windows 10 will end soon, making this an opportune time to upgrade. Prices on StackSocial may change.

Tech Optimizer

April 30, 2025

5 Free Antivirus Programs To Eliminate Malware and Viruses (2025)

Users are increasingly seeking effective malware protection without the cost of premium software, leading to the emergence of free antivirus programs that offer robust security features. This trend is particularly beneficial for Windows 11 users who want real-time protection while staying within budget. Several leading cybersecurity firms provide free antivirus solutions equipped with advanced features such as real-time scanning, phishing defenses, cloud-based malware detection, and system optimization tools. These free programs can adequately protect a diverse audience, including gamers, remote workers, students, and casual users. Top free antivirus programs for Windows 11 in 2025 include: 1. Bitdefender Antivirus Free: Utilizes the same malware engine as its paid version, offers real-time detection, anti-phishing protection, and is ultra-light on system resources. 2. Microsoft Defender Antivirus: Integrated into Windows 11, provides cloud-delivered protection and built-in ransomware mitigation without ads. 3. Avast Free Antivirus: Offers additional tools like network scanning and a Do Not Disturb mode for gaming. 4. AVG AntiVirus Free: Features a simpler interface, link and attachment protection, and fewer pop-ups. 5. TotalAV Free Antivirus: A newer option with a clean interface, real-time protection, and a junk file cleaner. Key factors to consider when selecting free antivirus software include real-time protection, low resource usage, minimal intrusion, and extra security tools. While free solutions are suitable for most users, premium protection may be necessary for small businesses or those handling sensitive data. For gamers, Bitdefender and Avast are recommended for their low system impact and gaming modes. For remote workers, Microsoft Defender and TotalAV are highlighted for their ease of use and integrated protections. Essential features of effective antivirus programs include robust virus protection, real-time scanning, and a behavior shield to detect new threats. Performance should not significantly slow down the system, and the interface should be user-friendly. Experts recommend Windows Defender for basic protection, with AVG and Avast receiving endorsements for their feature balance, while Bitdefender Free is noted for its detection rates and minimal system impact. Free antivirus programs may lack advanced features and technical support compared to paid versions.

Winsage

April 21, 2025

Intune flaw pushed Windows 11 upgrades on blocked devices

Microsoft identified a "code issue" within its Intune device management software as the reason for the unintended rollout of Windows 11 to devices not designated for the upgrade. The flaw triggered upgrades despite existing policies meant to prevent them. Microsoft is working on a fix and has advised organizations to pause Windows updates via Intune to avoid further issues. Devices that received the upgrade erroneously will need manual intervention to revert to their previous version. This incident follows a similar occurrence in November 2024, where customers experienced unexpected upgrades from Windows Server 2022 to Windows Server 2025. Microsoft attributed that incident to third-party products used for managing server updates. Additionally, a month prior, Microsoft retracted a preview update for Windows 11 due to severe issues causing crashes.

Winsage

April 15, 2025

OneDrive clients for Windows, Mac still broken 10 months on

In June 2024, OneDrive users for macOS and Windows reported that shared folders on their local drives had disappeared, replaced by .url files linking to OneDrive's web interface. This issue has persisted for ten months without a concrete solution from Microsoft, which has acknowledged it as a known bug under investigation. Users are frustrated by the lack of offline access and syncing capabilities, with complaints continuing in community forums. The problem is linked to a new "shortcut" model for shared folders, resulting from an ongoing backend migration. Small business users feel particularly abandoned, while enterprise users seem largely unaffected. Various proposed workarounds have had limited success. Microsoft has not provided further clarification beyond initial statements.

Tech Optimizer

April 1, 2025

There are over 1 billion malware programs

There are over 1 billion distinct malware threats in cyberspace. Antivirus software is essential for identifying and eliminating threats, acting as a frontline defense against various malicious entities, including ransomware. A security offer allows protection for up to five devices at an affordable price, enhancing security for households or small businesses.