Technology Tips, News and Reviews • Technically Easy

The Most Effective Tactic to Mitigate 92% of Microsoft Vulnerabilities

May 27, 2014March 4, 2014 by Paul Salmon

Any software product that is installed on a computer can have vulnerabilities. When it comes to such vulnerabilities, Microsoft products are usually some of the most popular to have their vulnerabilities published. The number of Microsoft products in use have a lot to do with such publicity.

A report recently released by Avecto has shed some light on Microsoft product vulnerabilities, and how a simple change in the way we access our computers can mitigate 92% of all vulnerabilities released in 2013. The change is one that I have advocated everyone make when running Windows 7 and above, and this report shows the difference the change can make.

Is Owning an iPhone 5 at All Costs Really Worth It? [Infographic]

April 2, 2014March 3, 2014 by Paul Salmon

Not so long ago, the iPhone 5 was released by Apple amid much fanfare. As well as pleasing existing iPhone users, it also ticked quite a few boxes for those considering a change from rival Android smartphones in terms of ease of use, looks and features. However, as you might expect, it costs a small fortune to buy and own on a monthly contract, putting some sensible smartphone users off.

Despite the price tag, there will be a few people who will spend some of their hard-earned cash on the iPhone 5, even if owning one may be beyond their means. Those on lower incomes parting with their money to get the latest iPhone might not realize how expensive it actually is, whether it’s for buying apps or using data.

You Won’t Believe How Long Your Computer Will Last

April 2, 2014February 27, 2014 by Paul Salmon

With Microsoft’s support ending for Windows XP, many people are looking to move to one of the newer versions of Windows – either Windows 7 (my preferred version), or Windows 8. I have been recently looking at helping someone upgrade a Windows XP system to a newer version of Windows, and have run into a bit of a snag. The desktop is old, and isn’t compatible with Windows 8. Windows 8 requires the processor to have the NX (No-eXecute) bit technology, and the processor in the desktop doesn’t have this technology.

This got me to thinking how long a typical desktop will last if someone was to buy it new today. The thought is that computers go obsolete the moment you bring it home. That is a thought that hasn’t been relevant in probably 10 years. In fact, for many people a new desktop computer can probably last longer than any computing device they may buy.

Backblaze or Carbonite: Which Do You Need?

September 24, 2022February 21, 2014 by Paul Salmon

A few years ago my cloud backup provider changed their pricing plans. The change made backing up my data with them very expensive. I also knew that I would be having much more data that needed to be backed up each year, so the price would continue to rise. Fortunately, then I had about one and a half years left in my current plan with that provider, so I had time to review other cloud backup providers before I had to change.

During that time I looked at many different providers and many had pricing packages that had limits to the amount of data I could store. Of course, the larger the storage space and more money it would cost. I looked at two services – Backblaze and Carbonite. Each provided unlimited storage for a flat, affordable, rate per month. Just what I was looking for to back up my data. In the end I went with Backblaze, and my reasons are outlined below.

How to Install a New Larger Hard Drive into an Otherwise Working Windows System

March 17, 2014February 19, 2014 by Paul Salmon

It may seem like a difficult chore to move your system and all your files from one hard to a newer, larger hard drive. There are tools available that can take much of the work of moving to a larger hard drive out of your hands.

Below are instructions, provided by Dave Baxter, that explain how he moved from an 80GB hard drive to a 250GB hard drive on Windows 7 Home Premium 32 bit.

You Won’t Believe: Can Fridges Really Be Used to Send Out Spam Emails?

April 2, 2014February 13, 2014 by Paul Salmon

Normally, fridges are used to keep food and drink chilled to its best temperature. However, in the past two or three years, so-called ‘smart fridges’ equipped with internet connectivity have made their way into an increasing number of kitchens around the world. They have been used to search for recipes, create shopping lists and even do a bit of web surfing, but they can come with an added risk.

Recently, it was revealed that using a range of more conventional gadgets such as home routers, laptops and smartphones, some smart fridges were actually used to send out spam email to thousands of unsuspecting people. The spam attack, which lasted between December 23 and January 6, saw up to 750,000 messages sent out via appliances including smart fridges.

The 4 Most Effective Tips to Protect Your Computer from Ransomware

September 24, 2022February 11, 2014 by Paul Salmon

4 Tips to Protect Your Data from Ransomware

Ransomware – a class or malware that restricts access to a computer until a ransom is paid – has been around for many years. In fact, one of the first known ransomware – the “AIDS” trojan – was found in 1989. Unlike other malware, ransomware has sort of been in the background, not drawing much attention. In 2013, the ransomware called CryptoLocker began making news as it infected computers, and then began encrypting personal data files.

4 Ways to Use Tech to Find a Better Job

February 7, 2017February 6, 2014 by Paul Salmon

Although employment rates are steadily improving, the job market is still tough, leaving prospective employees looking for every possible outlet and leg up they can find. To this end, technology helps tremendously by making it possible to search for open positions in ways that weren’t previously available. Before you think about relying on the classifieds or on word of mouth, you should see how many more prospects you have if you, too, use technology in your job search.