Are You Guilty of these 5 Over-Processing Sins?

Are You Guilty of these 5 Over-Processing Sins?: "My most common critique when looking at digital images is that they look over-processed. It is so easy to do this and such a common mistake, that it is important to understand the main mistakes that photographers make when retouching their images."



'via Blog this'

19 Hidden Chrome Features That Will Make Your Life Easier - Slideshow from PCMag.com

19 Hidden Chrome Features That Will Make Your Life Easier - Slideshow from PCMag.com: "Browsers have evolved far beyond their original mission of providing one-way windows into the world wide webosphere. Indeed, as more services migrate to the cloud, browsers only reinforce their new role as multi-function boxes of digital magic."



'via Blog this'

Huawei achieves 10 Gbps Wi-Fi data transfer rate

Huawei achieves 10 Gbps Wi-Fi data transfer rate: "n the unending march towards faster connection speeds, another benchmark has been surpassed. Huawei claims it has "achieved the industry’s first 10 Gbps Wi-Fi service in laboratory trials." The firm says the achievement paves the way for the next generation of commercially-available Wi-Fi."



'via Blog this'

Why would Copying a Large Image to the Clipboard Freeze a Computer?

Why would Copying a Large Image to the Clipboard Freeze a Computer?: "Sometimes, something really odd happens when using our computers that makes no sense at all…such as copying a simple image to the clipboard and the computer freezing up because of it. An image is an image, right? Today’s SuperUser post has the answer to a puzzled reader’s dilemna."



'via Blog this'

Pocket : 10 Wrong Ways To Set Up Your Wireless Network

Pocket : 10 Wrong Ways To Set Up Your Wireless Network: "When I turn on a wireless device in my apartment, I immediately find over twenty five wireless networks, all with strong signals. This is an example of how prevalent wireless Internet has become, but some of the networks I can find are not set up properly, making them insecure or unreliable."



'via Blog this'

Forget Linux – A Chromebook is the Perfect Replacement for Windows XP

Forget Linux – A Chromebook is the Perfect Replacement for Windows XP: "There are innumerable reasons why users might still be using Windows XP, but ever since Microsoft announced that the operating system would no longer be supported there has been a debate around how its last advocates should proceed. The ceasing of support will unquestionably create problems for people who still rely on the system, and it’s clear that an alternative OS needs to be found – but which one? There are a plentiful number of Linux distributions that can adequately replace the ancient Windows software, and they do have the benefit of not costing users anything to install, but can Google’s Chromebooks also be considered as a valid alternative? We think they can, here’s why…"



'via Blog this'

6 Reasons Why You Can’t Move Your Cell Phone To Any Carrier You Want

6 Reasons Why You Can’t Move Your Cell Phone To Any Carrier You Want: "You can buy a laptop or Wi-Fi tablet and use it on Wi-Fi anywhere in the world, so why are cell phones and devices with mobile data not portable between different cellular networks in the same country?"



'via Blog this'

Network Security: Windows Defender and a Malware-Free System

Network Security: Windows Defender and a Malware-Free System: "In this second lesson we are going to talk about one of the most confusing security products that are bundled with Windows: Windows Defender."



'via Blog this'

10,000 robots coming to Amazon warehouses | The Verge

10,000 robots coming to Amazon warehouses | The Verge: "Amazon intends to increase its robot workforce to 10,000 by the end of 2014. CEO Jeff Bezos revealed the company's plans during a recent shareholder meeting, according to CNN Money. An Amazon spokeswoman noted that the "increase won't change the number of actual people employed." The online retailer currently uses about 1,000 robots in its warehouses. The machines are produced by Kiva Systems, a robot-based material handling company that Amazon acquired for approximately $775 million in 2012."



'via Blog this'

Roku Streaming Stick Review and Giveaway

Roku Streaming Stick Review and Giveaway: "The latest rage in media streamers are small form-factor “streaming sticks”. The Chromecast was the first device to create this new category, but it’s no longer the only choice. Roku has made its competing Roku Streaming Stick that is similarly priced and supposedly offers all of the features Roku is known for."



'via Blog this'

8 Backup Tools Explained for Windows 7 and 8

8 Backup Tools Explained for Windows 7 and 8: "Backups on Windows can be confusing. Whether you’re using Windows 7 or 8, you have quite a few integrated backup tools to think about. Windows 8 made quite a few changes, too.

You can also use third-party backup software, whether you want to back up to an external drive or back up your files to online storage. We won’t cover third-party tools here — just the ones built into Windows."



'via Blog this'

What can a Service do on Windows?

What can a Service do on Windows?: "If you open up Task Manager or Process Explorer on your system, you will see many services running. But how much of an impact can a service have on your system, especially if it is ‘corrupted’ by malware? Today’s SuperUser Q&A post has the answers to a curious reader’s questions."



'via Blog this'

Hey, Google: It’s Time to Add Multi-Window Multitasking To Android

Hey, Google: It’s Time to Add Multi-Window Multitasking To Android: "In 2012, Google’s Dianne Hackborn threatened to revoke CyanogenMod’s access to the Android Market if they moved forward with adding “Cornerstone” multitasking to their custom ROM. Samsung has since created their own multi-window multitasking feature."



'via Blog this'

How to get the Start menu back in Windows 8 - CNET

How to get the Start menu back in Windows 8 - CNET: "Still miss the classic Start menu in Windows 8 and 8.1? Never fear, alternatives are here.

Microsoft lopped off the Start menu in Windows 8 to force people to use the Start screen. And I'll admit it, the Start screen does offers several benefits."



'via Blog this'

Butterfleye smart surveillance camera keeps watch with your iPhone

Butterfleye smart surveillance camera keeps watch with your iPhone: "Butterfleye is a wireless home surveillance camera that’s joining the growing ranks of intelligent, smartphone connected webcam systems designed to keep watch while you’re out and about. In addition to allowing you to check in on a live video feed whenever you like via iPhone, this smart camera comes equipped with a thermal sensor, motion detector, and facial recognition technology."



'via Blog this'

Pocket-sized Jumpr can jump start your car, and charge your phone

Pocket-sized Jumpr can jump start your car, and charge your phone: "Juno Power's new Jumpr is small enough to fit in a glove compartment, and light enough to carry in a coat pocket or backpack, but is claimed capable of jump-starting a car. And it can charge your smartphone, too."



'via Blog this'

The Very Best Widgets, Menu Items, and Pages For Your WordPress.com Blog

The Very Best Widgets, Menu Items, and Pages For Your WordPress.com Blog: "Bakari Chavanu
On 20th May, 2014
The Internet, Wordpress & Web Development



WordPress.com offers the best service for anyone wanting to create and run a free blog site using a professional, attractive theme and smart widgets. But while you can certainly create a WordPress blog in under 10 minutes, there are several additional things you can do to improve your newly minted website."



'via Blog this'

Why Your Router Is A Security Risk & How To Fix It

Why Your Router Is A Security Risk & How To Fix It: "The introduction of the home router was a great advancement in security for many owners. Before routers, most PC users relied only on a software firewall or, more often than not, ran no firewall at all. Routers with built-in firewalls have generally been a very good thing.
An item that provides safety can also lead to a false sense of security, however, and leave users vulnerable when attacks that they thought impossible occur. Routers are no different. They can be difficult to set up and often require updates to patch exploits discovered after release. Here’s what you must do to make your router is a boon instead of a burden."



'via Blog this'

How To Get The Best Features Of Mac, Linux & Co On Windows

How To Get The Best Features Of Mac, Linux & Co On Windows: "Do you suffer from operating system envy? I know I do. While I’m mainly a Windows user, I can appreciate a lot of the features available on Mac and Linux. Windows is pretty boring, so wouldn’t it be nice if those features could be transported over somehow? If that sounds like something you want, then check out these awesome tweaks and tools."



'via Blog this'

Why YouTube Wants to Buy Twitch | News & Opinion | PCMag.com

Why YouTube Wants to Buy Twitch | News & Opinion | PCMag.com: "Unconfirmed reports surfaced this weekend that video giant YouTube is in talks to buy Twitch, the ESPN of video game content, for more than $1 billion.
That's no small sum. On the surface, YouTube's potential Twitch purchase may leave many scratching their heads, but it represents not only an expanded video footprint, but a way to tap the money-spending, 18-to 34-year-old gaming video game-playing demographic."



'via Blog this'

Videostream for Google Chromecast sends all your videos to the big screen

Videostream for Google Chromecast sends all your videos to the big screen: "Google opened up the Chromecast SDK to developers earlier this year, and some new and exciting apps are starting to pop up. One of them is Videostream for Google Chromecast. The developers describe it simply as "What you bought your Chromecast for." It allows you to stream your local videos from your computer, NAS, and other network locations to the big screen. The big draw here is that it supports virtually any video or audio file type you have."



'via Blog this'

▶ Definitely deleted: How to guarantee your data is truly gone before recycling old PCs and drives | PCWorld

▶ Definitely deleted: How to guarantee your data is truly gone before recycling old PCs and drives | PCWorld: "Deleted files can often be recovered, and that's a problem when you're passing your PC or PC-related tech along to someone else. Whether it’s sensitive financial data, business documents, or scandalous photos that could be used to blackmail you, you probably don’t want people getting their hands on your private stuff."



'via Blog this'

▶ Get the most from the Windows 8.1 Apps screen | PCWorld

▶ Get the most from the Windows 8.1 Apps screen | PCWorld: "Tony Brandon stumbled upon a screen in Windows 8.1 that he didn’t know was there, listing all of his programs in alphabetical order. He wanted to know more about it.

You found one of Windows 8’s best-kept secrets--the Apps screen. Here you can find all of your Metro/Modern apps as well as your conventional desktop programs. You don’t have to rearrange them, pin them, or try to remember where you left them."



'via Blog this'

▶ Getting started with read-it-later apps Instapaper and Pocket | PCWorld

▶ Getting started with read-it-later apps Instapaper and Pocket | PCWorld: "I spend a lot of time reading news—partly because it's a big aspect of my job, but also because I simply love reading. There's just one problem: I never have enough time to take it all in when I find it. That's why I rely heavily on read-it-later apps to save all the interesting articles I find, stashing them away for future perusal."



'via Blog this'

Amazon Kindle Fire HDX: Can a 'consumption' tablet deliver as a productivity machine? | TechHive

Amazon Kindle Fire HDX: Can a 'consumption' tablet deliver as a productivity machine? | TechHive: "Microsoft is expected to launch a new competitor in the productivity tablet space on Tuesday, announcing what pundits are calling the “Surface Mini” at an event in New York."



'via Blog this'

Get a $10 Amazon Appstore credit for free - CNET

Get a $10 Amazon Appstore credit for free - CNET: "Good news, Android fans: You're about to get a boatload of free stuff. (Don't worry, iOS crowd: I've got a freebie for you as well. It's a bonus deal, below.)"



'via Blog this'

10 Useful DuckDuckGo Instant Answers That Save You Time & A Few Clicks

10 Useful DuckDuckGo Instant Answers That Save You Time & A Few Clicks: "he name may or may not help in the long run, but even Google might have sounded as funny as DuckDuckGo back then.
If you don’t know about DuckDuckGo yet, then you have been deaf to the quacks this one has been making as an alternative search engine to Google. Its main claim to fame has been that it does not track you. Privacy promised and delivered. What about performance?"



'via Blog this'

Microsoft: Surface Pro 3 will replace your laptop - CNET

Microsoft: Surface Pro 3 will replace your laptop - CNET: "Microsoft has officially unveiled the Surface Pro 3, a device aimed at eliminating the "conflict" Microsoft sees between the tablet and laptop.

The device features a 12-inch screen and kickstand, and supports a stylus. In addition, the tablet comes with support for USB 3.0 and Microsoft's popular Type Covers in multiple colors. The Surface Pro 3 features an Intel Core i3, Core i5, and Core i7 processor to boost its performance compared to the previous Microsoft slate."



'via Blog this'

8 Steam Features You Didn't Know You Had

8 Steam Features You Didn't Know You Had: "You probably think you know how to use Steam pretty well. You shop for your favorite titles, chat with your gaming friends, and manage your library with ease. You know how to find the best prices on games and make the most of Steam’s trading card system. You’re a natural."



'via Blog this'

Everything You Need To Know About Ethernet Cables

Everything You Need To Know About Ethernet Cables: " really hate WiFi, and you should too. If you own your own home or your landlord doesn’t mind a few holes in the wall, running gigabit Ethernet around the house is the best thing you can do for a faster computing experience. But what’s all this about Cat 6 or crossover cables? Here’s everything you need to know about Ethernet cabling."



'via Blog this'

5 ways to save big money on printer ink | Komando.com

5 ways to save big money on printer ink | Komando.com: "Your printer ink is way, way, way more expensive. Printer ink can range from $13 to $75 an ounce. To bring that home, you could buy more than 2,000 gallons of gas for the cost of a gallon of ink"



'via Blog this'

Alternative Keyboard Layouts Explained: Should You Switch to Dvorak or Colemak?

Alternative Keyboard Layouts Explained: Should You Switch to Dvorak or Colemak?: "QWERTY — so-called because the letters at the top-left corner of the keyboard begin with QWERTY — is the most common keyboard layout. But some people think alternative keyboard layouts like Dvorak and Colemak are faster and more efficient."



'via Blog this'

The camera on your phone might be the best defense you have | The Verge

The camera on your phone might be the best defense you have | The Verge: "Could your cellphone camera give a boost to cryptography programs that help protect your data? That was the pitch that surfaced in a paper this week from a group of researchers at the University of Geneva. The paper studied the visual noise patterns from the camera on a Nokia smartphone, digging deep enough to track quantum fluctuations (tiny, temporary changes in the amount of energy at a point in space). If used right, those fluctuations could provide a source of perfectly random noise that would make a huge difference in future encryption protocols."



'via Blog this'

6 Mind-Reading Tech Projects That Might Freak You Out - Slideshow from PCMag.com

6 Mind-Reading Tech Projects That Might Freak You Out - Slideshow from PCMag.com: "That might not be the case for much longer, as scientists are already capable of rudimentary thought-reading. Researchers have gone from bottling brains in formaldehyde and plumbing the psyche with psychology to machinery like CT scans and MRIs."



'via Blog this'

5 Ways You're Using The Web Wrong: Avoid Frustration & Embarrassment

5 Ways You're Using The Web Wrong: Avoid Frustration & Embarrassment: "With millions of spam emails, thousands of malware websites and an unknown number of cyberattacks taking place on the Internet every day, traveling safely through these interwebs is no easy task. Thankfully, MakeUseOf is here to help."



'via Blog this'

Safely Clean Your Monitors, TV & Touchscreen Displays

Safely Clean Your Monitors, TV & Touchscreen Displays: "Are your devices covered in dust, fingerprints, and smudges? It’s tempting to spray and wipe them down during your next cleaning sprint. Hold on! You may accidentally scratch your LCD, damage your touchscreen, or cause a short circuit."



'via Blog this'

Master Chrome OS With These Chromebook Keyboard Shortcuts

Master Chrome OS With These Chromebook Keyboard Shortcuts: "Keyboard shortcuts are essential on any device with a hardware keyboard, whether you’re using a Windows PC, Linux system, Mac, or even a Chromebook. Chrome OS and other operating systems share quite a few shortcuts, but many are unique to Chrome OS."



'via Blog this'

LED vs. Plasma: Which HDTV Type Is Best? | PCMag.com

LED vs. Plasma: Which HDTV Type Is Best? | PCMag.com: "For years, the question of which type of HDTV to get was one of the most important to consider. You could get a plasma HDTV, a CCFL-backlit LCD, or if you had the money, you could buy an LED-backlit HDTV. Now that Panasonic is out of the plasma field and CCFL LCDs are nearly extinct, LED is the obvious choice. LEDs are available in any size and price range, and now approach the performance once only seen with plasmas. There is a new technology on the horizon that might give LED a run for its money, though: OLED has the potential to overwhelmingly exceed even plasma in picture quality."



'via Blog this'

Focus! 4 Best Tools To Temporarily Block Facebook & Co

Focus! 4 Best Tools To Temporarily Block Facebook & Co: "At best, you might describe it as a compulsive distraction. At worst, it may be a full-blown addiction – a problem that can be symptomatic of deeper issues, such as Internet addiction, smartphone addiction, and more. When you find yourself lacking in digital willpower, sometimes the answer is to block the distractions altogether."



'via Blog this'

Are Old Hard-Drives Safe to Take Apart?

Are Old Hard-Drives Safe to Take Apart?: "Taking the occasional piece of old hardware apart can be fun and educational at the same time, but should you be worried that the hardware in question may contain hazardous materials? Today’s SuperUser Q&A post has the answers to a worried reader’s question."



'via Blog this'

Leaked screenshots show a brand new look for Gmail | PCWorld

Leaked screenshots show a brand new look for Gmail | PCWorld: "I’ll be honest—I’m not a big fan of Gmail’s Web interface. It’s clumsy, it’s awkward, and it takes quite a bit of getting used to. But if a set of apparently leaked screenshots are any indication, Google might be about to update Gmail in a big way.

The images, which Geek.com published on Friday, reportedly show an in-the-works version of Gmail’s Web interface, along with a number of new features."



'via Blog this'

▶ When Tech Support calls you | PCWorld

▶ When Tech Support calls you | PCWorld: "Diane Shotbolt received a call from an alleged tech support person who “wanted me to make changes to my computer.” She asked for my advice.

If there are people monitoring your computer, and there probably are, they’re not doing it to provide tech support. In fact, they don’t want you to know that they’re watching you."



'via Blog this'

Pocket : 7 Tools to Make Android Compatible with Apple Gear

Pocket : 7 Tools to Make Android Compatible with Apple Gear: "Although Apple has always intended for their products to form a closed ecosystem, a lot of people have Android phones and want to use them with Apple products. From streaming video to syncing music and contacts, these apps make it a breeze."



'via Blog this'

Why You Shouldn't Trust App Ratings on Google Play

Why You Shouldn't Trust App Ratings on Google Play: "You need a new camera app; you open Google Play and find 50. Naturally, you install the highest-rated one. Guess what? You just got tricked. Google Play’s rating system is broken beyond repair, and you need to understand the details to make informed decisions about the apps you install."



'via Blog this'

Readers' Choice Awards 2014: Tablets and Ebook Readers | PCMag.com

Readers' Choice Awards 2014: Tablets and Ebook Readers | PCMag.com: "This month's PCMag Readers' Choice Award survey tackles tablets and ebook readers: the Goldilocks devices."



'via Blog this'

FCC Votes to Advance New Internet Rules | Conservative Byte

FCC Votes to Advance New Internet Rules | Conservative Byte: "The Federal Communications Commission on Thursday voted in favor of advancing a proposal that could dramatically reshape the way consumers experience the Internet, opening the possibility of Internet service providers charging Web sites for higher-quality delivery of their content to American consumers."



'via Blog this'

Text-to-911 is here, but it isn't everything you might think - CNET

Text-to-911 is here, but it isn't everything you might think - CNET: "If there's ever a situation where you need to text a 911 operator instead of dialing the number directly, listen up now. Today is the day that the country's four big carriers: AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon, will officially route texts addressed to 911 to your local police."



'via Blog this'

How Evernote designs a world without apps (Q&A) - CNET

How Evernote designs a world without apps (Q&A) - CNET: "In the early days of Evernote, CEO Phil Libin said he would check his screen every minute to see how many users the productivity tool was picking up. Now, he nearly missed celebrating Evernote surpassing 100 million users.

"We almost missed it," he said while at the Collision Conference in Las Vegas this week. "We got too busy to think about it too much.""



'via Blog this'

​Comcast vs. Netflix: Is this really about Net neutrality? - CNET

​Comcast vs. Netflix: Is this really about Net neutrality? - CNET: "Netflix, which earlier this year reluctantly agreed to pay interconnection fees to broadband providers, has suggested that Comcast is to blame because it's violating principles of Net neutrality, which are all about keeping the Internet free and ope"



'via Blog this'

Google Glass now available for anyone in the US to buy

Google Glass now available for anyone in the US to buy: "Have you been chomping at the bit to buy Google Glass, but just couldn't snag an invite? ... anyone?? Okay, well, I'm sure someone out there has US$1,500 and a desire to look like a beta version of Robocop. If that's you, then today's your lucky day."



'via Blog this'

Archos launches $170 ArcBook laptop

Archos launches $170 ArcBook laptop: "Archos has pulled back the curtain to reveal what's claimed to be the first touchscreen Android netbook, the ArcBook. Designed for students and mobile workers, the wallet-friendly portable workhorse features a 10-inch screen, a 1.2 GHz ARM Cortex processor and a battery that promises to keep going long after the school day or shift is over."



'via Blog this'

50 Best Free iPhone Apps for 2014 | PCMag.com

50 Best Free iPhone Apps for 2014 | PCMag.com: "The 50 mobile apps that made the cut for this list of the best free iPhone apps have shown outstanding performance, or have been well received by a wide variety of users, and are free. Here, "free" means free. No gimmicks, no "membership required." Free. Period."



'via Blog this'

Chromebooks looking to replace PCs by going offline | PCWorld

Chromebooks looking to replace PCs by going offline | PCWorld: "Google is adding more features to Chromebook applications so that they can be used without accessing the Web, addressing a common complaint among users who want the laptops to function more like traditional PCs."



'via Blog this'

Google Chrome flirts with killing URLs | PCWorld

Google Chrome flirts with killing URLs | PCWorld: "Google has an interesting idea for upcoming versions of Chrome that could either make browsing safer or destroy the web as we know it. The latest build of Canary, Google's experimental version of the Chrome browser, introduced a feature that does away with URLs, also known as web addresses."



'via Blog this'

How do I bypass provider throttling on streaming Netflix or YouTube?

How do I bypass provider throttling on streaming Netflix or YouTube?: "
Windows
Chrome 34
I have Internet service that is hindered enough to prevent streaming of Netflix Shows/movies on my brand new Smart LG TV. I have been hearing about a USB plugin to get this type of streaming – it lets me get YouTube right now but Netflix requires a faster Internet speed (more Mbps?) and Fairpoint. my provider. does not provide the higher speed in my particular area."



'via Blog this'

Researcher seeks to draw a line between games addiction and 'highly enthusiastic' play | Polygon

Researcher seeks to draw a line between games addiction and 'highly enthusiastic' play | Polygon: "Video games addiction remains a controversial topic both inside and outside the field of mental health, and a researcher is seeking to explain the difference between what is problematic game-playing behavior and that which is just highly enthusiastic."



'via Blog this'

How to Use Voice Search and Google Now in Chrome on Your Desktop

How to Use Voice Search and Google Now in Chrome on Your Desktop: "Chrome is gradually becoming more of a platform, and some of the best features of Android are making their way to Windows. With voice search and Google Now support, Google beat Microsoft’s own Cortana service to Windows."



'via Blog this'

Awesome Things You Can Automatically Import To Google Calendar

Awesome Things You Can Automatically Import To Google Calendar: "Show me a full calendar, and I’ll show you a successful person. A calendar should be a tool that keeps every aspect of your life focused in one place, allowing you to worry less and accomplish more. The following are a few useful ways that you can import more important information into your Google Calendar."



'via Blog this'

Yes, that's a new CNET iOS app for you (and some other big stuff) - CNET

Yes, that's a new CNET iOS app for you (and some other big stuff) - CNET: "You asked, we delivered: a wholly new iOS app that puts CNET's best work front-and-center and lets you filter by where you live. (Don't worry -- Android is coming soon. And Windows Phone is already here.)"



'via Blog this'

iPad vs. Surface: Which makes the better faux laptop?

iPad vs. Surface: Which makes the better faux laptop?: "Tablets are the new personal computers. But can they replace a laptop? And do Windows 2-in-1s like the Surface really make for better faux laptops than the iPad? Let's take a look, as Gizmag goes hands-on with keyboard-laden versions of the iPad Air, iPad mini with Retina Display, Surface 2, and Surface Pro 2."



'via Blog this'

Intel Core i3 power leads new Chromebook charge

Intel Core i3 power leads new Chromebook charge: "The number of devices running Google's Chrome OS is about to significantly increase. At a press event in San Francisco yesterday, Intel and Google upped Chrome system designs to 20 by introducing a bunch of new computers and notebooks from OEM partners like Acer, LG, Asus, Dell and Lenovo, including a few powered by the latest generation Core i3 processors."



'via Blog this'

Has Your Online Security Been Breached? 6 Signs That Say It Has

Has Your Online Security Been Breached? 6 Signs That Say It Has: "Protecting your online privacy and security seems to become more difficult with every month. Recent exploits like the Heartbleed bug have proven that even someone who diligently guards their own security isn’t invulnerable.
A breach in your security usually doesn’t stay secret for long, however. Someone who has your account credentials for one or more websites has probably taken them with a purpose in mind, and their actions will leave a trace. Here are the most common warning signs."



'via Blog this'

Ask HTG: What Should I Do After Purchasing a New Computer Monitor?

Ask HTG: What Should I Do After Purchasing a New Computer Monitor?: "Although monitors are largely a plug and play device, there’s more to setting up a new monitor than simply plugging it in and turning it on. Read on as we show a fellow reader how to quality check his new monitor and help it put the best face forward."



'via Blog this'

How to Back Up an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch Using iCloud | PCMag.com

How to Back Up an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch Using iCloud | PCMag.com: "You probably keep some very important information on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, whether that's photos of your kids or the email addresses of your most important business contacts. You definitely don't want to lose that kind of information. But what would happen to your files, photos, and everything else if your iOS device were lost, stolen, or severely damaged? If you backed up your data, it will all still be available to you in a pinch."



'via Blog this'

EndlessTV is a cool way to watch free videos without ads | TechHive

EndlessTV is a cool way to watch free videos without ads | TechHive: "A new app called Endless TV mimics the channel surfing experience on your phone or tablet, giving you a continuous stream of videos without the obnoxious pre-roll ads.

The app, available now for iOS and Android, is extremely simple to set up and use. Just pick a channel you want to watch, from sources like CNN, the Food Network and ESPN, and Endless TV starts playing a selection of clips without any ads"



'via Blog this'

Pocket : EndlessTV is a cool way to watch free videos without ads

Pocket : EndlessTV is a cool way to watch free videos without ads: "A new app called Endless TV mimics the channel surfing experience on your phone or tablet, giving you a continuous stream of videos without the obnoxious pre-roll ads."



'via Blog this'

DuckDuckGo, the search engine that doesn't track you, finally challenges Google | PCWorld

DuckDuckGo, the search engine that doesn't track you, finally challenges Google | PCWorld: "DuckDuckGo, the privacy-focused "search engine that doesn't track you," saw its usage skyrocket in the wake of Edward Snowden's NSA revelations, but that privacy came at a price: While Google and Bing prettied up their design with card-like interfaces and graphical, inline information about everything from music videos to old presidents, DuckDuckGo's interface has remained straightforward and full of basic text links, reminiscent of the Google of old. "



'via Blog this'

Juxtaposer: The Best Layering App Ever | Photojojo

Juxtaposer: The Best Layering App Ever | Photojojo: "Want to be a game piece in Candyland? Want to ride a roller coaster down the Rocky Mountains?

Now you can do it all! … Well, you can make it look like you did it all."



'via Blog this'

▶ 5 apps to easily move photos from your phone to your PC | PCWorld

▶ 5 apps to easily move photos from your phone to your PC | PCWorld: "As the saying goes, the best camera is the one you have with you—and that's why so many of us have smartphones absolutely stocked with memories from nights out on the town to a child's first days in the world. But while taking photos on your smartphone is no problem, getting them off your phone and onto your PC can sometimes be a pain."



'via Blog this'

Taking a photo against a white background? Amazon owns the patent on that - Quartz

Taking a photo against a white background? Amazon owns the patent on that - Quartz: "Today a photography blog unearthed another strange development in America’s ongoing patent train wreck: Amazon was recently awarded the intellectual rights to taking pictures of people in front of seamless white backgrounds."



'via Blog this'

Symantec Says “Antivirus Software Is Dead”, But What Does That Mean For You?

Symantec Says “Antivirus Software Is Dead”, But What Does That Mean For You?: "Have you heard? Antivirus software is dead — at least according to Symantec, maker of Norton Antivirus. But they’re still making Norton Antivirus and want to sell it to you, so what does this statement even mean?

Antivirus software is still helpful. It’s an important layer of security. But, now more than ever, you shouldn’t rely only on antivirus software. Traditional antivirus software doesn’t catch many threats"



'via Blog this'

How to recover deleted files | PCWorld

How to recover deleted files | PCWorld: "Megan Aitken’s partner lost “a load of photos.” Here’s my advice for recovering them.

Lost files can usually be recovered—if you discover the loss soon enough. But every time you write to the hard drive, you lower the likelihood of a successful recovery. So use that computer as little as possible until the files are recovered or you’ve given up hope."



'via Blog this'

▶ It's spring! Clean out your PC's junk with these free programs | PCWorld

▶ It's spring! Clean out your PC's junk with these free programs | PCWorld: "It's finally May. The winter frost is thawing across the U.S., and thoughts are turning to baseball, the Memorial Day weekend, and cleaning out your PC. Okay, maybe that last one isn't for everybody."



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How To Disable OneDrive / SkyDrive With Just A Few Clicks In Windows 8.1 Pro

How To Disable OneDrive / SkyDrive With Just A Few Clicks In Windows 8.1 Pro: "One Microsoft product I’m not a fan of is OneDrive (formerly known as SkyDrive). It’s not a particularly bad product, it’s just that I feel Dropbox does better work of the same job. Another thing that I’m not a fan of is having things forced upon me, or installed without my permission. I’m sure many of our readers feel the same way, and this is OneDrive’s situation after an upgrade to Windows 8.1."



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Protect Your Data in the Cloud with TrueCrypt

Protect Your Data in the Cloud with TrueCrypt: "With news of the NSA, GCHQ, big corporations, and anyone else with an Internet connection snooping through your online data these days, you can’t be too careful when it comes to protecting the stuff you put in the cloud. This guide will tell you what you need to do so that TrueCrypt can keep your synced files guarded from prying eyes."



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How to Tell if An Android App is Potentially Dangerous

How to Tell if An Android App is Potentially Dangerous: "Yes, some Android apps can be malicious — Apple, Microsoft, and the media seem happy to remind us about this. Take a few basic precautions and you can avoid these potentially dangerous apps."



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Ubuntu One Is Doomed; Try These 5 Linux-Friendly Alternatives

Ubuntu One Is Doomed; Try These 5 Linux-Friendly Alternatives: "Ubuntu One, the cloud storage and music service made specifically for Ubuntu users, is shutting down. Here are the best alternatives.
Canonical decided it’s not worth running Ubuntu One anymore, but they’re leaving ample time for users to get their data off of Ubuntu One before it goes offline on June 1. Ssers can download their data until July 31."



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Why iOS vs. Android no longer matters - CNET

Why iOS vs. Android no longer matters - CNET: "I know my way around the iPhone as well as I know my own living room. In fact, I know it a little better than my living room, since for the last few years whenever I've been in my living room I've usually been gawping at an iPhone, ignoring everything around me."



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​Google extends Intel love affair with new Bay Trail Chromebooks - CNET

​Google extends Intel love affair with new Bay Trail Chromebooks - CNET: "SAN FRANCISCO -- Google and Intel dabbled with a dalliance last year, but now they're all in as the two tech titans revealed a new lineup on Tuesday of more than 20 Intel-driven devices across several major hardware manufacturers that all run Chrome OS."



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Why Browser Extensions Can Be Dangerous and How to Protect Yourself

Why Browser Extensions Can Be Dangerous and How to Protect Yourself: "Browser extensions are pieces of code that run in your web browser. They can do malicious things like display ads, track your browsing, and capture your passwords and private data. A safe extension could automatically update and become malware."



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An 'internet middleman' calls out six ISPs for letting connections slow down

An 'internet middleman' calls out six ISPs for letting connections slow down: "This week's update on the battle between Netflix, internet service providers (ISPs) and the companies that often carry internet traffic between them comes from the third group. Level 3 VP Mark Taylor's "Observations of an Internet Middleman" shows what it looks like from his end of the network cable while being squeezed out by ISPs seeking the direct connection deals Netflix has signed with Comcast and Verizon. Without naming the ISPs in question -- Level 3 waged a war with Comcast over Netflix traffic in 2010 before cutting a direct connection deal of its own last year -- he points out that among the company's many connected network peers, only a dozen are suffering congestion. While half of those are in the process of being upgraded, the other six are regularly overloaded, dropping packets and delaying traffic."



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5 Apps To Improve Your Daily Commute

5 Apps To Improve Your Daily Commute: "As the amount of traffic on our roads increases, so too does the amount of time we spend commuting.
Research suggests that workers in London, on average, spend forty two days per year commuting, while a typical American worker doesn’t fare much better – clocking in at an average of thirty eight days per year. Both those figures represent more days commuting that most people get in annual leave. It’s a worrying trend."



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3 Better Ways To Store Your Files Than On The Desktop

3 Better Ways To Store Your Files Than On The Desktop: "Did you know that storing files directly on your desktop can harm your productivity? I used to be one of “those” people who downloaded files straight to the desktop. If you can identify with that, then I have good news for you: you can do better. Desktop storage is simple, sure, but it comes with hidden drawbacks you may not know about."



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Sony's new magnetic tape technology enables 185 TB cartridges

Sony's new magnetic tape technology enables 185 TB cartridges: "One of the joys of old science fiction movies is watching the giant reel-to-reel tape drives spin around as they serve computers less powerful than a modern wristwatch. But magnetic tape isn't just something found in old UFO episodes; it’s a key component in modern digital systems required to keep modern online systems reliable. At the INTERMAG Europe 2014 international magnetics conference in Dresden, Sony announced a new breakthrough in magnetic tape technology that keeps the medium relevant by allowing a tape cartridge to carry 74 times the data of a conventional data tape, or the equivalent of 3,700 Blu-ray discs."



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Say goodbye to Windows 8.1 updates, unless you do this one thing | Komando.com

Say goodbye to Windows 8.1 updates, unless you do this one thing | Komando.com: "During Patch Tuesday, Microsoft updated 8.1. If you’re set to automatic updates, you already have it, and you’re set. But if you’re doing manual updates and haven’t gotten to it yet, get to it now."



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7 More Issues With Windows 8.1 That Can Be Fixed

7 More Issues With Windows 8.1 That Can Be Fixed: "Windows 8.1 has been available since October 2013, with its first major update having just been released on April 8th. In light of the release, we take the chance to follow up on our original 7 Windows 8.1 Upgrade Issues and How to Fix Them article with another look at some problems and issues that users have faced when using Microsoft’s flagship operating system."



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Dual-functioning electrolyte improves capacity of long-life batteries

Dual-functioning electrolyte improves capacity of long-life batteries: "The three main components of a battery's makeup: the negative anode, positive cathode and the ion-conducting electrolyte, have been long understood to serve separate, independent functions."



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Everything You Need to Know About Signing Into Windows 8.1

Everything You Need to Know About Signing Into Windows 8.1: "Windows 8.1 and 8 brought big changes to Windows. Even the process of logging in and setting up user accounts is extremely different, with new types of user accounts and login options.

You can still set up basic local user accounts without any online service integration, parental controls, or fancy login methods. Whether you like Microsoft accounts or prefer not to use them, there are interesting options for you here."



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Use Portable VirtualBox to Take Virtual Machines With You Everywhere

Use Portable VirtualBox to Take Virtual Machines With You Everywhere: "Portable applications allow you to move between computers, taking your applications and their settings with you on a USB stick. Portable VirtualBox allows you to create portable operating systems and run them on any PC."



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Pocket : Microsoft fixes big IE bug -- even on Windows XP

Pocket : Microsoft fixes big IE bug -- even on Windows XP: "Microsoft has issued a fix for a dangerous Internet Explorer bug that left the browser highly vulnerable across every major version -- including those that run on Windows XP."



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Stop those ad trackers on your smartphones! | Komando.com

Stop those ad trackers on your smartphones! | Komando.com: "The battle to maintain some semblance of privacy in our online lives is a classic one-step-forward, two-steps-back situation. Just when you start to feel you have a grasp of things, we get hit with new revelations about government spying."



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How the Air Force Could Finally Give You a Decent Wi-Fi Connection | Enterprise | WIRED

How the Air Force Could Finally Give You a Decent Wi-Fi Connection | Enterprise | WIRED: "Hoping to improve the way its planes communicate in hostile environments, the aerial branch of the U.S. Armed Forces is sharing $2.7 million with computer science researchers at the University at Buffalo who will spend the next four years developing software that can make wireless radios significantly smarter and more efficient. It’s called cognitive radio, and though the concept has been around for awhile, there are some signs that it’s getting ready for prime time, and it could be used to boost wireless networks well beyond the Air Force. Microsoft has tinkered with cognitive radio, and some think that Google could use it as a way of improving its self-driving cars."



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Windows Admin: Learning to Use the Registry Editor Like a Pro

Windows Admin: Learning to Use the Registry Editor Like a Pro: "Over the years we’ve covered a lot of registry hacks, and while most people can handle the step-by-step instructions for how to make a registry change, or double-click a .reg file to insert it into the registry, you will be much better served having a solid knowledge of what the registry is and how it works."



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8 iPhone Battery Tips and Tricks | PCMag.com

8 iPhone Battery Tips and Tricks | PCMag.com: "Now that many of us rely on our smartphones the way we rely on oxygen and electricity, battery life has become a prime concern. While the iPhone isn't a major power hog, particularly in terms of standby time, there are still situations where your battery can drain too quickly. If you have trouble making it through the day without charging up, here's what you can do right now to boost your iPhone's battery life."



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TechNet Radio: IT Time - The Risk of Running Windows XP After Support Ends | TechNet Radio | Channel 9

TechNet Radio: IT Time - The Risk of Running Windows XP After Support Ends | TechNet Radio | Channel 9: "Support for Windows XP ends this month. No big deal you say? Well not so fast my friends. Tune in as Blain Barton interviews Tim Rains, Director of Trustworthy Computing at Microsoft as he lays out the many security risks you open yourself and your organization up to by running Windows XP."



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How to Enable Click-to-Play Plugins in Every Web Browser

How to Enable Click-to-Play Plugins in Every Web Browser: "Most web browsers load Flash and other plug-in content as soon as you open a web page. Enable “click-to-play” plug-ins and your browser will load a placeholder image instead — click it to actually download and view the content."



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Windows Admin: Understanding Hard Drive Partitioning with Disk Management

Windows Admin: Understanding Hard Drive Partitioning with Disk Management: "n today’s edition of Geek School, we’re going to talk about how to use Disk Management… but we’re going to go one step further and explain master boot records, partition tables, and dynamic disks."



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Microsoft tells IE users how to defend against zero-day bug - CNET

Microsoft tells IE users how to defend against zero-day bug - CNET: "Microsoft has yet to patch its latest critical Internet Explorer zero-day security flaw, but an advisory about the bug now offers two temporary solutions."



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Microsoft tells IE users how to defend against zero-day bug - CNET

Microsoft tells IE users how to defend against zero-day bug - CNET: "Microsoft has yet to patch its latest critical Internet Explorer zero-day security flaw, but an advisory about the bug now offers two temporary solutions."



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Love Chrome, But Love Your Privacy And Security Even More? Try Aviator

Love Chrome, But Love Your Privacy And Security Even More? Try Aviator: "We live within our web browsers. You’re reading this article in a web browser. You probably check your email in a web browser. I order my groceries in a web browser. I buy books in a web browser. Web browsers are pretty important."



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The 100 Best iPad Apps of 2014 | PCMag.com

The 100 Best iPad Apps of 2014 | PCMag.com: "The Apple iPad is one of the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful tablets on the market. An elegant design, intuitive interface, and a massive app ecosystem that lets you do nearly anything you can imagine have all combined to propel the iPad to stardom. Want to watch a movie? Download the Netflix app. Want to get some work done? Download the long-awaited and recently released Microsoft Word for iPad app. Any task you want to do, there's probably an app for that"



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Comparing Intel Core i5 vs. i7 | PCMag.com

Comparing Intel Core i5 vs. i7 | PCMag.com: "For many consumers who are on the hunt for a new desktop or laptop PC, one of the biggest considerations is the type of processor. Two of the processors most often in contention are the Intel Core i5 and Intel Core i7. Discounting Core i3 (mainly found in budget systems) and AMD processors (another story entirely), the difference between Intel Core i5 and Core i7 can seem daunting, especially when the prices seem so close together once they're in completed systems. We break down the differences for you."



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How to Check if Your VPN Connection is Actually Encrypted

How to Check if Your VPN Connection is Actually Encrypted: "I recently subscribed to a VPN service for my personal use so that my Internet connection from home is completely encrypted. With all the spying and hacking revelations going on these days, I don’t mind having a little bit of extra security on my side just in case. Once I had installed the software on computer and connected to the VPN, it seemed to be working fine as far as I could tell."



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Spring cleaning: Going digital with your wallet - CNET

Spring cleaning: Going digital with your wallet - CNET: "It's true, mobile payments aren't mainstream quite yet, but that shouldn't stop you from going digital with your wallet. Over the course of the last year how many times have you accidentally forgotten your wallet? How about your smartphone? I'm willing to bet your wallet is far more neglected, and for good reason."



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