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Private Internet Access (PIA) is a veteran VPN service known for its affordability and privacy guarantees. With recent updates including lifting device connection limits and undergoing third-party audits, PIA offers unlimited simultaneous device connections, a vast server network spanning 90 countries, and features like split tunneling and a kill switch. While its connection speeds may not be the fastest, PIA's strong privacy credentials, transparent practices, and competitive pricing make it a top-tier VPN option for users seeking a reliable and versatile service. [Extracted from the article]

The article from PCWorld discusses how Google Chrome's new Manifest V3 changes are impacting ad blockers, particularly uBlock Origin. The changes limit extension access to the browser's network layer, affecting ad-blocking capabilities and privacy innovation. While Google claims the changes aim to improve privacy, critics argue they may benefit Google's advertising interests. The article suggests Firefox as an alternative browser that may continue to support ad blockers effectively. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides a guide on how to secure your web browser to protect against various vulnerabilities and threats. It highlights the importance of regular updates and choosing a secure browser, such as open-source options like Iridium, Brave, and Mozilla Firefox. The article also discusses configuring browser privacy features, encrypting connections using VPNs or the Tor Browser, resisting browser fingerprinting, and password protection. It mentions the controversy surrounding Google's Manifest V3 API and its potential impact on ad blockers in Chromium-based browsers. Overall, the article offers practical tips for enhancing online security while browsing the internet. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides information on various software applications that can be useful for Linux users. The applications discussed include Snoop, a search utility for text within files; Nuclear, a music streaming app without ads; Media Downloader, a GUI front-end for downloading media; Concessio, a tool for understanding and converting file permissions; Endless Key, an educational platform with offline access to learning resources; and Tuta, a privacy-focused email client with encryption. The article also mentions other applications such as FireDragon, AntiMicroX, LibreQuake, nnn, and Micro. These applications offer features like privacy, emulation, game data creation, file management, and text editing. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the importance of using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for online privacy and security. It highlights six major VPN providers and evaluates them based on criteria such as security, privacy, performance, ease of use, and trust. The article provides a brief overview of each VPN, including their features, server locations, and pricing. It concludes by recommending Proton VPN as the top choice due to its strong performance and comprehensive features. However, it acknowledges that other VPNs like NordVPN and Surfshark also have their merits. [Extracted from the article]

This article from Computer Act!ve provides solutions to various tech problems. It addresses issues such as a malfunctioning fingerprint reader on a Dell laptop, the upcoming end of support for Windows 10, fixing a non-functional keyboard on an Acer laptop, troubleshooting ad-blocker messages in Chrome, and creating screenshots without a PrtScn key. The article also offers guidance on wiping data from a non-functional iPad before recycling it. It provides advice on reviving dead Apple devices, fixing a black boot screen issue, unsubscribing and uninstalling Adobe Creative Cloud apps, creating a workaround for dark mode in Adobe Acrobat Reader, and understanding the difference between torrent files and magnet links. Lastly, it advises on the amount of mobile data needed for accepting card payments using a Square card reader. [Extracted from the article]

Google is making changes to Chrome extensions that will affect ad-blocking extensions like uBlock Origin. While these changes have been criticized, there are alternative ad blockers that will remain compatible with Chrome. AdBlock Plus, AdGuard, Ghostery, and uBlock Origin Lite are all options that can still block the majority of advertising on the web. However, it is important to note that there is no way to completely avoid advertising in the digital world. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides a comprehensive guide for users of Linux Mint 22, a popular operating system. It highlights the features and improvements of the new release, emphasizing its suitability for both beginners and experienced users. The article discusses the foundation of Linux Mint on Ubuntu 24.04 and the availability of different desktop environments. It also covers topics such as the overhauled Software Manager, the inclusion of verified applications from Flathub, and instructions on how to boot and install Mint. The article concludes by mentioning the advantages of being based on Ubuntu, such as extensive testing and long-term support. Additionally, it provides tips and instructions on various topics including system updates, antivirus software, software management, web browsing, file transfer, and customization options. The article also mentions the availability of resources such as official documentation, community forums, and chat support for users seeking assistance. [Extracted from the article]

This article from PCWorld provides tips on how to optimize the settings of Norton 360 antivirus software. The article suggests changing the notification preferences to reduce the number of alerts received, configuring the built-in VPN to enhance security on public Wi-Fi networks, setting up cloud backups for important files, adding additional details to dark web monitoring for better protection, and activating automatic updates for desktop applications. The article provides step-by-step instructions on how to make these changes within the Norton 360 application. [Extracted from the article]

Surfshark is a versatile VPN service that offers good privacy, unlimited device connections, and a wide range of features. It has over 3,200 servers in 100 countries, although some of them are virtual servers. The interface is clean and easy to navigate, and Surfshark provides options like multi-hop routing and a dedicated IP address. It also offers features like ad and malware blocking, split tunneling, and a kill switch. While the monthly plan is expensive, long-term plans are more affordable. Surfshark has been independently audited and has a strict no-logs policy, ensuring user privacy. It is compatible with major streaming services and provides good speeds for bypassing geo-restrictions. Overall, Surfshark is a solid VPN option for those looking for privacy and security. [Extracted from the article]

Malwarebytes Premium Security is an antivirus software that offers a simple and streamlined approach to protecting your devices. It was once a reliable secondary tool but now emphasizes the importance of using a single antivirus program to avoid conflicts and vulnerabilities. The software includes real-time monitoring for malware, email, web, and network threats, as well as a VPN service. While it lacks additional features like parental controls and a password manager, it has a clean interface and minimal impact on system resources. However, there is limited independent testing data available on its performance. [Extracted from the article]

NordVPN is a popular VPN service that offers powerful features and fast server speeds. It is part of a larger organization called Nord Security, which provides additional services such as a password manager and secure file storage. NordVPN has a user base of over 14 million and is supported on various platforms. It offers 10 simultaneous device connections and has 24/7 customer support. The service is based in Panama, which means it is not subject to data retention laws. NordVPN has a strict no-logs policy and uses strong encryption for security. It offers multiple internet protocols and has undergone independent audits to confirm its privacy practices. While NordVPN is more expensive than some competitors, it offers a wide range of features and continues to improve and optimize its service. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides recommendations for free software that can help users protect their privacy online. It suggests using tools like uBlock Origin, Zen, ClearURLs, Consent-O-Matic, Decentraleyes, and DuckDuckGo Private Browser to block trackers and prevent websites from identifying users. It also mentions the use of Brave and Tor Browser for anonymous browsing, as well as the free version of ProtonVPN for encrypting internet connections. The article further recommends using tools like Windscribe and OnionShare for secure and anonymous internet access and file sharing, respectively. It also suggests using email aliases, encrypting emails, and using passkeys for secure logins. Additionally, it provides tips for clearing browsing data, removing private data from browsers, and removing metadata from photos. The article concludes by offering online tools to test browser privacy and check for data breaches. [Extracted from the article]

This article from Linux Format discusses the process of creating and running turn-based internet games, specifically focusing on the concept of postal games and how they have evolved in the modern age. The article outlines the steps involved in setting up and running a game, including game development, player sign-up, order submission, and results processing. It also provides insights into the different types of games that can be created and the software requirements for game development. The article concludes with discussions on monetizing the game and the use of fake players to attract new players. [Extracted from the article]

Apple has introduced a new Safari feature called Distraction Control in macOS Sequoia and iOS 18, which allows users to temporarily remove distracting elements on webpages. This feature is not an ad blocker, as ads still load, but users can make them disappear temporarily. Distraction Control can be used on any webpage element, including advertisements, headlines, paragraphs, images, and video windows. Users can select an element and make it disappear by clicking on it, and the webpage will reorganize to fill in the gap. The feature is available in macOS Sequoia beta 5 and the public release of September 16, but it is unclear if it will be available in later versions or older versions of macOS. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to enhance the functionality of streaming devices like Fire TV, Android TV, and Roku. It covers topics such as sideloading apps, mirroring apps, using VPNs to access global TV channels and protect privacy, installing legal Kodi add-ons, and unlocking hidden features on streaming devices. The article emphasizes the importance of respecting copyright laws and avoiding illegal practices. It also discusses legal ways to stream TV shows and films using platforms like Kodi and Plex. Additionally, the article warns against the risks of purchasing Android TV boxes from unknown manufacturers. [Extracted from the article]

Avira Prime is an antivirus software suite that provides comprehensive protection and PC utilities. It has a user-friendly interface and offers a wide range of tools, including malware and web defenses, a password manager, unlimited VPN, and dark web monitoring. The software also includes PC performance tools such as speeding up the computer and finding duplicate files. It does not have parental controls but offers various backup options. The subscription costs $60 for the first year and $105 per year thereafter, with a 60-day money-back guarantee. The default plan covers five devices, but users can upgrade to a 25-device plan for $130 per year. Avira Prime is easy to install and navigate, providing real-time protection against online and offline threats. It offers scheduled and manual scans, as well as a firewall to monitor network traffic. Additional features include a password manager, a secure browser, and a system speedup tool. Overall, Avira Prime is a user-friendly antivirus suite that offers strong security and a reasonable subscription price. It is suitable for beginners who want a simple start and gradually learn more about PC management. While it performs well in malware detection and protection tests, it may struggle with sophisticated, targeted threats. [Extracted from the article]

This article from Computer Act!ve offers tips and tricks for enhancing various Google products. It acknowledges that while Google has faced criticism for its privacy policies and business practices, its products are widely used due to their user-friendly designs and accessibility. The article covers ways to improve Google Chrome, Gmail, and Google Search, including restoring Chrome's classic download manager, applying a cleaner design to Gmail, and removing sponsored links and adverts from search results. It also addresses concerns about AI-generated search results and the removal of the "Cached" option from search results. The article provides tips and instructions on how to improve various Google services, such as Google Maps, Google Photos & Lens, Android & Google Play, and Google Drive & Docs. It suggests calibrating Google Maps using the compass on your Android phone to improve location accuracy, using dark mode on Google Maps website with an extension called Dark Reader, hiding private photos and videos in Google Photos' Locked Folder, translating foreign text using Google Lens and Google Translate, freeing up space on Android devices by archiving unused apps, sharing files between devices using Quick Share, scanning documents directly to Google Drive, moving unwanted files to the Spam folder in Google Drive, creating appointment schedules in Google Calendar, accessing Google Keep notes from the home screen, using Companion mode in Google Meet for mobile devices, and following interests in Google News. The article provides step-by-step instructions and screenshots for each tip. [Extracted from the article]

This article recommends several free software programs. The first program discussed is Arc, a web browser that is now available for Windows 10. Arc has a unique tab bar on the left-hand side and a minimalist interface. It also features Spaces, which allows users to create distinct browsing areas with different tabs and files. The article also mentions Thunderbird 128, an email client with a redesigned Cards view, and O&O DeskInfo 1.3.1347, a system-information tool that displays useful information about your system on your desktop. Lastly, the article discusses Wise ImageX, a freemium software with AI-powered tools for editing and enhancing photos. While the program is easy to use, there are limitations on file size and the number of photos that can be enhanced for free. The article also provides alternative options for OCR tools, website-creation tools, and scanning software. [Extracted from the article]

This article offers tips and tools to enhance the YouTube viewing experience without the need for a Premium subscription. It addresses frustrations such as increased ads and restricted features by providing solutions like blocking ads, disabling autoplay, and hiding certain videos. The article also suggests tools for downloading videos, improving picture and audio quality, and customizing the appearance of YouTube. These tips and tools aim to optimize the viewing and downloading experience for users conducting research on specific topics. [Extracted from the article]

This document presents a list of the top 20 most downloaded free software programs of 2023, as determined by Computeractive readers. The programs listed cover a wide range of categories, such as video streaming, disk health monitoring, file management, and driver updating. The most popular program, FixWin, is a system tool that can perform various PC repairs with just one click. Other popular programs include O&O AppBuster, uBlock Origin, DuckDuckGo, and PDFgear. The document provides brief descriptions of each program, highlighting their key features and benefits, as well as expert tips on how to use them effectively. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides tips for optimizing the performance of an iPad. It suggests following the recommendations provided by the iPad to manage storage space effectively. Deleting old podcasts or using alternative podcast apps can also help free up space. Checking network connections and reducing motion effects can improve speed and battery life. Updating to the latest version of iPadOS is recommended for security and new features. Mastering multitasking and turning off background app refresh can further enhance performance. Installing a third-party browser like Opera and closing crashed apps can also be beneficial. [Extracted from the article]

This article explores the privacy concerns associated with popular web browsers like Chrome and Edge, which track users' online activities and collect personal data for targeted advertising. It suggests alternative browsers that prioritize privacy and protect user data. The article emphasizes the importance of keeping browsers updated to address security vulnerabilities. One recommended browser, Brave, is praised for its privacy features, including aggressive blocking of trackers and ads, automatic blocking of cookie-consent pop-ups, and the ability to access the web through the Tor network for enhanced anonymity. Other browsers mentioned include Tor Browser, DuckDuckGo, Firefox, and Mullvad Browser, each with their own privacy features and limitations. This comprehensive overview is useful for users concerned about their online privacy. [Extracted from the article]

1 Extension Manager pcpro.link/350c1 There are hundreds of thousands of Chrome extensions in existence - some on the Chrome Web Store, others distributed via GitHub or personal websites. FEATURES Chrome is the most popular web browser in the world, and there are good reasons for that: it's not only underpinned by one of the biggest names on the net, it's supported by an active community of extension developers. Perplexity can also help promote your content through social channels: visit any page and click the Summarize button, and it will draw out the page's main points in flowing copy. You don't even have to be using Chrome to make use of them - you can also install Chrome extensions in Microsoft Edge to get the exact same benefits (see pcpro.link/350edge). [Extracted from the article]

"Computer Act!ve" provides readers with a variety of tips and recommendations from fellow readers. These include adding AllDup to File Explorer's right-click menu to find duplicate files easily, decluttering Google search results by using the Web option, discovering live radio stations on YouTube for continuous music, setting a permanent password for RustDesk for remote desktop control, and filtering comments by user and annotation type in PDFgear software. Additionally, the journal suggests trying the Linux Mint distro for new Linux users as a user-friendly option with preloaded basic software. [Extracted from the article]

The article provides tips for optimizing browser usage on Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Opera. It suggests disabling Google Lens in Chrome to reduce its presence, granting websites temporary permissions in Firefox to protect privacy, accessing Copilot from the address bar in Edge, and using Aria in Opera without signing in. Additionally, it offers extensions like YouTube Ad Accelerator & Easy Speed Drag to skip ads on YouTube. [Extracted from the article]

Arc 1.13 is a new web browser that is now available on Windows 10, in addition to macOS and Windows 11. It offers a unique interface with a tab bar on the left-hand side and a minimalist design. Arc's notable features include Spaces, which allows users to create distinct browsing areas with different tabs and color themes, and Split View, which enables users to view two tabs side by side. The browser is based on Chromium, allowing users to install extensions from the Chrome Web Store. It also includes the uBlock Origin content blocker by default. Thunderbird 128 is an email client that brings several improvements, such as a redesigned Cards view for browsing email discussion threads and an enhanced Unified Folders feature. O&O DeskInfo 1.3.1347 is a system-information tool that displays useful information about the user's system on the desktop. It supports Windows' 'Efficiency mode' and allows users to view their Windows product key. Wise ImageX is a freemium software that offers AI-powered tools for editing and enhancing photos. It includes features like Restoration, Colorisation, and Super Resolution. However, the free version has limitations on file size and the number of photos that can be enhanced. The yearly plan offers good value, but the program should allow users to process more than five images for free. [Extracted from the article]

The article "Browser Tips" from Computer Act!ve provides insights on browser extensions and features in Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Brave. It discusses the changes in Chrome 130 regarding Manifest V2 extensions, Firefox's picture-in-picture mode, Edge's performance detector for extensions, and Brave's AI assistant Leo. Additionally, it offers tips on adding new buttons to Chrome's toolbar and recommends Tampermonkey as the best extension for managing user scripts. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses how Google's new Manifest v3 standard for browser extensions has limited the effectiveness of ad blockers on Chrome and similar browsers. AdGuard has developed a solution to bypass these restrictions and continue blocking ads effectively. The article provides step-by-step instructions on how to install and use AdGuard to block ads, trackers, and protect privacy while browsing the web. It also explains how to whitelist specific websites if needed. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the benefits of using Ghostery Private Browser as an alternative to Safari for web browsing on iPhone and iPad. Ghostery allows users to browse privately, remove invasive trackers, and block unwanted ads. It also offers customizable settings for search engine, default mail client, theme, and link handling. The article provides a step-by-step guide on how to use Ghostery, including features such as bookmarking, searching, tab browsing, and ghost tabs for private browsing. It emphasizes that Ghostery can make browsing smoother, faster, and potentially save money on cellular data by blocking ads and unwanted content. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses how to turn a Raspberry Pi into a Wi-Fi access point using RaspAP. It provides step-by-step instructions for installation and configuration, including setting up a 3D-printed housing for longevity and ensuring a high-quality power supply. The article also mentions the option to enable ad-blocking and VPN support. It concludes by mentioning the RaspAP Insiders program, which offers additional features for paying customers. Overall, the article provides a comprehensive guide for creating a customizable and functional Wi-Fi access point using a Raspberry Pi. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the increasing prevalence of aggressive cookie consent pop-ups on websites, which give users limited options to either pay for a subscription or consent to being tracked by cookies. These pop-ups are difficult to avoid and obstruct the browsing experience, particularly on mobile devices. The article provides several methods to block these pop-ups, including using private browsing mode, installing ad blockers like uBlock Origin, and using the Brave browser. The article also mentions the presence of similar pop-ups in mobile apps and provides instructions on how to disable data collection in these apps. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides tips and workshops for phone and tablet users. It discusses the redesigned Google Photos app, which makes it easier to find and organize pictures and videos. It also mentions the availability of OpenAI's image generator in the free version of ChatGPT, allowing users to create images using AI. Additionally, the article highlights the importance of securing X (formerly Twitter) accounts with a passkey and explains how to enable dark mode in the DuckDuckGo Private Browser. The article concludes with recommendations for new apps, including Geekbench AI, Opera One, and Google Meet, as well as the best apps for tracking flights. [Extracted from the article]

This article from Computer Act!ve provides various tips and workshops for optimizing different web browsers. It discusses disabling Google's AI Overviews feature in Chromium browsers, extending the lifespan of Manifest V2 extensions in Chrome, enabling Tab Previews in Firefox, accessing passwords more easily in DuckDuckGo, and using the Super Drag and Drop feature in Edge. The article also recommends the ViewStats and TubeBuddy extensions for viewing YouTube statistics. [Extracted from the article]

This article from Mac Life discusses how to improve the browsing experience in Safari by using various features and extensions. It highlights key details on web pages, puts videos front and center, and offers a redesigned Reader to make sites less distracting. The article provides tips on blocking cookies, browsing privately, using Reader View to strip away distractions, and searching for content on web pages. It also suggests extensions like Adblock and StopTheMadness for additional control and customization. The article emphasizes that these improvements can be made in the current version of Safari, but also mentions upcoming enhancements in macOS Sequoia. [Extracted from the article]

Little Snitch 6 is a software firewall for macOS that allows users to monitor and control their networking connections. It provides insight into the connections being made by apps on the user's Mac and allows them to block connections they don't trust. The latest version, Little Snitch 6, takes advantage of changes in macOS 14 to simplify installation and improve reliability. It also includes features such as blocklists, DNS encryption, and a network monitor window. However, it is important to use Little Snitch with caution, as misusing its power can cause issues with the user's Mac and apps. [Extracted from the article]

This article from MacFormat provides tips and tricks for improving the browsing experience in Safari on macOS. It suggests blocking cookies to prevent tracking, using private browsing to avoid saving cookies and data, and utilizing the Reader View feature to remove distractions from web pages. The article also recommends extensions like Adblock and StopTheMadness for blocking ads and customizing browsing settings. Overall, the article aims to help users navigate web pages more easily and enjoy a cleaner browsing experience. [Extracted from the article]

This allows you to tell Microsoft which news and other content you're interested in reading, so if Windows 11 does need to fill space in the Widgets pane, it might at least be something you're vaguely interested in. Once you've added some Widgets, click on your Profile icon in the top right of the Widgets pane, and at the foot of that screen, click the small Manage Interests link. Seemingly, there's nothing you can do in Settings to stop Microsoft dropping random app icons into your Start menu or prevent the Microsoft account from nagging. A preview build of Windows 11 released in March is "continuing the exploration of badging on the Start menu with several new treatments for users logging in with local user accounts to highlight the benefits of signing in with a Microsoft account", according to a Microsoft blog post. [Extracted from the article]

DEPARTMENTS Browser extensions improve the experience of internet trawling. The browser extension for your chosen password manager will simplify using strong, unique passwords. [Extracted from the article]