support Archives

Tech Optimizer

June 18, 2025

AVG Antivirus Review 2025: Robust Free Version but Middling Premium Plans

AVG Antivirus offers a freemium model with a suite of cybersecurity tools. The Ultimate plan scored 7.6/10 overall, with the following breakdown: Performance 9/10, Security 7/10, Customer Support 7/10, Usability 9/10, Value 7/10, and Features 7/10. The free version includes scan scheduling and protection against ransomware, while the paid AVG Internet Security covers up to 10 devices. AVG Ultimate includes a VPN and performance tools but lacks some advanced privacy features found in competitors. Usability testing showed intuitive account navigation, though installation was complex. AVG's antivirus engine achieved a 99.3% online detection rate, but there are concerns about data-sharing policies and past breaches. Customer support includes a knowledge base and 24/7 live chat, but experiences were often unsatisfactory. AVG's pricing is competitive, especially for its free option, but may not meet the needs of users requiring advanced features.

Tech Optimizer

June 18, 2025

DataStrike Expands Open-Source Database Management Business by 600% as Demand for PostgreSQL Expertise Surges

DataStrike has reported a 600% increase in its open-source database management business over six months, largely due to the growing adoption of PostgreSQL. In response, the company has doubled its team of database management professionals, focusing on recruiting PostgreSQL-certified experts. PostgreSQL has surpassed MySQL as the most utilized database among professional developers, with 49% of developers reporting extensive experience with it. Additionally, 51% of organizations have seen increased PostgreSQL usage in the past year. DataStrike offers 24/7 U.S.-based support for various database platforms and has found that 54% of IT leaders feel they lack the resources for data infrastructure management. Founded in 2008 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA, DataStrike serves over 200 clients across North America.

Winsage

June 18, 2025

Jim Rossman: More questions about the end of Windows 10 and third-party patching

The conclusion of Microsoft support for Windows 10 has prompted users to reconsider their operating systems and the future of their digital environments.

AppWizard

June 18, 2025

Epic Games Store Is Removing Controversial Game From Everyone’s Library

Epic Games will remove the game Dark and Darker from all player accounts on November 1, 2025. The game was previously taken off the Epic Games Store in March 2023 due to legal disputes between its developer, Ironmace, and Nexon. Players have been notified via email about the removal, which will make the game unplayable on the Epic Games Store. Players can no longer purchase in-game items like Redstone Shards or Legendary Status upgrades, but previously purchased items can be used until the removal date. Refunds will be issued for the Legendary Status upgrade, but not for Redstone Shards. Players who do not receive refunds by July 1 are advised to contact player support. The future of Dark and Darker is uncertain due to ongoing legal proceedings.

Winsage

June 18, 2025

Windows 10 End Nears: Switch to Linux for Security

Microsoft will cease support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, affecting an estimated 200 to 400 million devices that will no longer receive updates or patches, exposing them to security vulnerabilities. Transitioning to Windows 11 requires modern hardware specifications, which many older devices lack. Users must decide between investing in new hardware, opting for extended security updates, or switching to alternative operating systems like Linux. The Document Foundation advocates for Linux and LibreOffice as viable alternatives, emphasizing their ability to run on older hardware and providing robust security updates. Linux offers users greater control and transparency, addressing privacy concerns associated with proprietary systems. LibreOffice supports open document formats, ensuring long-term accessibility without vendor constraints. The end of Windows 10 support may prompt significant shifts in the tech industry, encouraging a move towards systems that prioritize sustainability and user rights.

Winsage

June 17, 2025

Windows 10 End Nears: Switch to Linux for Security

Microsoft will cease support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, leaving an estimated 200 to 400 million devices vulnerable to security risks due to a lack of updates. Users must choose between upgrading to Windows 11, which has strict hardware requirements, paying for extended security updates, or switching to alternative operating systems like Linux. The Document Foundation advocates for Linux and LibreOffice as viable options, emphasizing their ability to run on older hardware and provide robust security updates without vendor lock-in. Privacy concerns regarding data collection by major tech companies are highlighted, with Linux offering users greater control and transparency. The transition away from Windows 10 is seen as an opportunity to promote user empowerment and sustainability in technology choices.

Winsage

June 17, 2025

Microsoft releases patch after Surface Hubs v1 bricked

Microsoft has released an out-of-band update to fix an issue with Surface Hub v1 devices that arose from the June Patch Tuesday updates, specifically related to KB5060533 for Windows 10 versions 21H2 and 22H2. This issue caused some Surface Hub v1 units to become inoperable, displaying a "Secure Boot Violation: Invalid signature detected" error message. Microsoft paused the update on June 11 and issued a patch a week later. The problem does not affect Surface Hub 2S and 3 models. Users have reported inconsistent success using a disk re-imaging tool, and the Surface team is investigating potential recovery methods. Microsoft is working on a solution for the affected devices and will provide updates as they become available.

AppWizard

June 17, 2025

android users malware stay alert

A new strain of malware called "Crocodilus" is targeting Android users, designed to steal funds. It spreads through advertisements on social media that entice users to download an app with promises of rewards. Once installed, the malware can modify the user's contact list, adding numbers under trustworthy names like "Bank Support" to deceive victims. Security experts from Threat Fabric warn that this malware represents a significant threat and recommend that users only download apps from trusted sources like the Google Play Store, and to verify app developer credentials and user reviews before installation.

AppWizard

June 17, 2025

iState: A Russian Government Messenger?

On June 10, the Russian State Duma approved the establishment of a national messenger to be pre-installed on all newly sold smart devices starting September 1. This app will include a digital ID system and aims to streamline access to government services, identity verification, contract signing, and banking transactions. The initiative is inspired by China's WeChat but raises concerns about surveillance and data storage by the Russian government. The specific application for the national messenger has not yet been finalized, with Max, developed by VKontakte, being a leading candidate. Legal expert Sarkis Darbinyan doubts that Max will attract WhatsApp's user base and predicts it will be limited to domestic use without end-to-end encryption. Despite these issues, State Duma IT Committee head Sergei Boyarsky believes that existing messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram will continue to operate if they comply with Russian laws.

Winsage

June 17, 2025

Millions Of Windows Users Get Microsoft’s Free Upgrade Offer

As of June 17, Windows 10's global market share has fallen below 50% for the first time, now at 48.9%, while Windows 11 is at 47.7%. This suggests that nearly 60 million users have switched from Windows 10 to Windows 11. In the United States, Windows 11 holds 55.2% of the market compared to Windows 10's 42.0%. In Asia, Windows 10's share has decreased from 59% to 49%, while Windows 11 has increased to over 46%. Approximately 700 million users remain on Windows 10, with over 240 million devices not meeting the upgrade requirements. Microsoft is encouraging users to upgrade and will introduce a migration tool to facilitate the transition. The upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is free for compatible PCs, but unsupported systems may face security risks post-October 14.