third-party services

Winsage
March 3, 2025
Windows services are essential for the functionality of the operating system, and while many can be deactivated, caution is advised. Daemon Master is a tool that allows users to configure executables, shortcuts, or batch files as services that start automatically with Windows. To create a service with Daemon Master, users must launch the application, click “New,” assign a service name and display name, and optionally add a description. The default start type is “Automatic,” and users can specify the path to the desired EXE file. After saving, the service will appear as “stopped” and can be started by right-clicking and selecting “Start service.” Services run in the background, but users can access the program window temporarily by selecting “Start service on desktop.” Services can be managed by starting, pausing, resuming, or stopping them, and unnecessary third-party services can be disabled through the system configuration. Troubleshooting can involve restarting specific services, like the Print Spooler for printing issues. To delete a service, users must identify its name, stop it using the command prompt, and then delete it with the sc.exe tool. Tools like Autoruns can also be used for managing services. While deactivating services may not improve performance, it can reduce security vulnerabilities, and programs like Ashampoo Winoptimizer can help users assess the necessity of installed services.
Winsage
February 14, 2025
A hacking campaign named “REF7707” has been targeting Windows and Linux systems with malware families including FINALDRAFT, GUIDLOADER, and PATHLOADER. It originated in late November 2024, when Elastic Security Labs detected alerts from the Foreign Ministry of a South American nation. The attackers used Microsoft’s certutil application to download files and had valid network credentials for lateral movement. FINALDRAFT, a key component of the campaign, exploits the Windows-signed debugger CDB.exe and uses a Scheduled Task for persistence. It employs Microsoft’s Graph API for command and control, utilizing cloud services and domains like support.vmphere[.]com and update.hobiter[.]com. The campaign highlights the need for improved security measures across different operating systems.
Winsage
December 2, 2024
Microsoft has reintroduced its AI Recall technology for Copilot Plus-powered computers, currently in testing and available to select users via the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.2415 (KB5046723) in the Dev Channel. The technology is limited to devices with Qualcomm Snapdragon chipsets, with plans for broader compatibility with AMD and Intel systems. Microsoft has implemented a stricter privacy framework requiring user permissions for data access and ensuring that snapshots are stored locally. The US Department of Justice (DOJ) and Google presented closing arguments in an antitrust case concerning the advertising market in a Virginia court. DOJ attorney Aaron Teitelbaum accused Google of manipulating ad auctions and monopolistic control, while Google's attorney Karen Dunn argued the DOJ had not proven its claims. The case could lead to significant changes in Google's business structure. Evolv Technology reached a settlement with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) over misleading claims about its AI scanners' effectiveness in detecting weapons. Evolv is now prohibited from making unsupported claims about its products following investigations that questioned the technology's real-world performance.
Tech Optimizer
November 26, 2024
PCMag has reviewed antivirus software since 1988 and evaluated over 150 security applications last year. A recent survey revealed consumer preferences for antivirus software and VPNs. For 2024, Proton emerged as the top VPN brand with a score of 9.0 out of 10, while Bitdefender was rated the most trusted antivirus brand, receiving a perfect five-star rating. Trend Micro won the Reader's Choice Award for security suites, surpassing Bitdefender. In mobile antivirus, Bitdefender was the preferred choice, excelling in most categories. The survey for Antivirus and Security Suites was conducted from September 10 to November 4, 2024.
AppWizard
November 17, 2024
Minecraft can be set up on a Raspberry Pi as a server. To do this, ensure the Raspberry Pi is powered on and connected to a network. Use Raspberry Pi OS or Ubuntu Server, and configure SSH access. Update the system with PLACEHOLDERe6cd1cbf6a15ffb3, then install OpenJDK with PLACEHOLDERa584be315bb50573. Create a directory for server files using PLACEHOLDER8197b44ab82607b0, and download the Minecraft server binary. Accept the EULA by running the server once, editing the 'eula.txt' file, and restarting the server. Customize the server using the server.properties file and maintain the server in the background with the screen tool. Optimize performance by disabling the GUI and adjusting memory settings with the PLACEHOLDER45ec7a903b9d90cd and -Xms flags. For larger servers, consider using alternative binaries like Spigot or PaperMC. Set up port forwarding for external access, or use a WireGuard VPN for secure connections. A Raspberry Pi is a suitable host for a Minecraft server due to its low power consumption and affordability.
Winsage
October 25, 2024
Many users open Microsoft Edge primarily to download Google Chrome, despite Edge's evolution into a robust browser. The Windows Package Manager is a terminal-based utility favored by Windows 11 users for streamlining software installation from various sources, allowing users to install multiple applications with a single command. It uses manifests to guide downloads and can be complemented by third-party services like winstall.app for a more user-friendly experience. Users can install Google Chrome quickly by entering the command "winget install google.chrome" in the Terminal app, bypassing the need to use Edge. The Windows Package Manager's capabilities are expanding, and users can create their own manifests for missing applications. Tools like PowerToys Run enhance keyboard-centric workflows, facilitating quick access to the Terminal.
AppWizard
September 27, 2024
WhatsApp is introducing a feature called "third-party chats," which will also be available on Facebook's Messenger app, initially exclusive to users in the European Union. This change is a response to the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA) aimed at reducing monopolistic practices among tech companies. The feature allows users to manage messages across different platforms more easily, and users can choose to consolidate chats into a single inbox or maintain separate folders. Meta aims to enhance the messaging experience with features like reactions, direct replies, typing indicators, and read receipts, with plans for group creation and voice/video calling capabilities by 2027. Security will be prioritized, requiring third-party services to use the same encryption protocols as WhatsApp and Messenger.
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