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Norton Antivirus Plus is an entry-level software suite that provides essential online protection for one device. It offers malware protection, a password manager, and features like cloud backup storage and PC utilities. The software has two interfaces, which may be initially confusing but become easier to navigate with use. It costs $30 for the first year and $60 per year thereafter, but discounts can be found through third-party retailers. Norton Antivirus Plus supports PC, macOS, Android, and iOS. It offers strong antivirus protection against major online threats, with features like file cleanup, startup manager, and system use monitoring. It also provides a secure browser alternative to Chrome. While it generally performs well in tests conducted by security research institutes, it may have a performance impact on some PCs during full scans. Overall, Norton Antivirus Plus is an affordable and reliable option for those who only need protection for one device. [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]

PureVPN for Mac is a VPN service that offers reliable geo-unlocking and a sleek Mac VPN client. While it provides a range of tools and extras, there are some privacy concerns, particularly with virtual servers. PureVPN offers different plans with varying features, but it is pricier than some of its competitors. The service performs well in terms of speed and getting around geoblocks, and it has an impressive no-logging policy. However, due to potential legislative changes and the use of virtual servers, it is advisable to consider shorter-term plans. [Extracted from the article]

1Password is a password manager app that helps users securely store and manage their passwords. It has a clean and user-friendly layout, with features such as auto-fill for online forms and the ability to store other important documents. The app also analyzes the strength of passwords and provides warnings for repeated or vulnerable passwords. 1Password prioritizes security, using encryption and secret keys to protect user data. It is available for various devices and browsers, with different pricing options for individual, family, and business users. Overall, 1Password is a reliable and recommended password manager with strong security credentials. [Extracted from the article]

Passkeys are becoming more popular as a replacement for traditional passwords, offering a more convenient and secure way to log in to the internet. With passkeys, users no longer need to remember multiple passwords and can instead use their PC or smartphone to generate a key pair for authentication. Passkeys provide protection against phishing and can be used with various online services, including Amazon, Google, and PayPal. They can be set up on a PC or smartphone, with the latter offering the advantage of automatic synchronization and backup in the cloud. It is recommended to familiarize oneself with passkeys by switching a few accounts to this method and to set up additional options for two-factor authentication and recovery. [Extracted from the article]

Antivirus software is essential for protecting Windows PCs from malware, but there are several myths surrounding it. One myth is that antivirus software needs to be installed on Windows, when in fact Windows already comes with built-in antivirus software called Microsoft Defender. Another myth is that only Windows is vulnerable to malware, but in reality, malware is a problem on all platforms, including Linux and macOS. Additionally, antivirus software does not significantly slow down PCs anymore, and it runs automatically in the background. It is also a myth that antivirus software needs to be manually run, as it scans files automatically. While antivirus software is important, it is not foolproof, and users should not solely rely on it for protection. Other security practices, such as browsing carefully and using strong passwords, are also necessary. There are free antivirus options available, but premium versions offer additional features and protection. [Extracted from the article]

McAfee Total Protection is an online security software that provides antivirus protection, password management, VPN services, and PC utilities. It offers strong protection against online threats and performs well in blocking threats. However, it may impact system performance on certain PCs and has a disorganized user interface. The password manager, McAfee True Key, has limitations and can be difficult to use. While it covers the basics of online security, there are other competitors that offer better overall performance. [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 explains how to use Bitwarden's password manager and DuckDuckGo's masked email service to enhance security and privacy. By combining these tools, users can generate unique email addresses and passwords for each app or website they visit, protecting their identity and preventing hackers from accessing multiple accounts. Bitwarden recently added support for DuckDuckGo's unlimited email masking, allowing users to create an unlimited number of email aliases for free. The article provides step-by-step instructions for setting up this integration and suggests alternative options for creating secure passwords and masked emails. [Extracted from the article]

Avast One is a security suite that provides antivirus protection and focuses on identity and privacy concerns. It offers features such as antivirus and firewall, network monitoring, dark web monitoring, VPN, and PC utilities. However, it does not include a password manager or parental controls. The pricing varies depending on the number of devices and offers a discounted rate for the first year. Avast One is available for PC, Android, macOS, and iOS devices. It provides strong antivirus protection, additional privacy features, and tools to optimize PC performance. It performs well in antivirus tests and has a user-friendly interface. [Extracted from the article]

This article from Macworld - Digital Edition provides solutions to common Mac problems. It offers guidance on setting up networked Time Machine backups for a household, including recommendations for drive size, formatting, and partitioning. The article also explains how to change the default browser temporarily to resolve authentication issues and how to type formatted fractions on an iPhone or iPad. Additionally, it suggests a workaround to prevent the iPhone flashlight from turning on accidentally. [Extracted from the article]

Avira Prime for Mac is a paid version of Avira's free antiviral software, Avira Free Security. It offers several tools for users, including virus scans, protection options, quarantine, VPN, passwords, cookie cleaner, identity assistant, junk cleaner, uninstaller, and startup apps. The software performs well in detecting unwanted software without impacting performance. It also includes features such as a password manager and a junk files cleaner. However, the full scan can be time-consuming, and there are concerns about missed suspect files. Avira Prime has received good scores from independent test labs. The software offers a five-device subscription for $9.99 per month, but the free version, Avira Free Security, offers the same core protection. Overall, Avira Prime may not justify the annual subscription cost for most users. [Extracted from the article]

Bitdefender Total Security is a comprehensive security suite that provides protection against online threats. It offers antivirus, firewall, and ransomware features, as well as network and web protection, email screening, and parental controls. The software can be installed on various devices, but not all features are available on all platforms. While it has some limitations, such as restricted VPN use, it is highly regarded for its strong protection and user-friendly interface. Bitdefender Total Security is a reliable antivirus solution for keeping devices safe. [Extracted from the article]

ExpressVPN is a highly reputable and trustworthy VPN provider that offers a range of features and services. It has a simple and effective interface, with customizable settings such as a kill switch and split tunneling. However, it does not offer a multi-hop feature, which may disappoint some users. ExpressVPN provides excellent speeds and can unblock major streaming services. It prioritizes user privacy and has undergone numerous independent audits to verify its no-log policy. The service is located in the British Virgin Islands, which enhances its ability to protect user data. While ExpressVPN is more expensive than some competitors, it offers a top-tier VPN experience. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to set up a new computer, whether it's a laptop or desktop running Windows 10 or Windows 11. The first step is to run Windows Update to ensure the operating system is fully patched and up to date. The article also recommends installing a preferred web browser, setting up security measures, removing bloatware, installing desired software, and creating a backup of the computer's hard drive. Optional steps include updating drivers and exploring hidden features of the Windows operating system. [Extracted from the article]

Norton 360 Deluxe is an affordable all-in-one security solution that provides extensive protection against online threats. It offers features like antivirus, malware detection, firewall, privacy monitoring, webcam safeguards, cloud backups, password manager, VPN, parental controls, and PC utilities. While the user interface could be improved, the product performs well and is part of Norton's suite of offerings. It costs $50 for the first year and $120 per year thereafter, with options for individual or family plans. Norton 360 Deluxe is a comprehensive security suite that offers strong antivirus protection and a range of features, making it an effective choice for users seeking an all-in-one security solution. [Extracted from the article]

This article from PCWorld provides instructions on how to enable ransomware protection in Windows. Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts files on a computer and demands a ransom for their release. Microsoft Defender, the built-in antivirus software in Windows, can restrict apps from changing files in folders commonly targeted by ransomware. However, these protections are not turned on by default and need to be enabled manually. The article also mentions the importance of having backups, particularly through Microsoft OneDrive, and suggests additional antivirus software for enhanced protection. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the different levels of antivirus protection available and helps readers determine which level is right for them. It explains that free antivirus software can be just as effective as paid options in catching viruses and malware, but it requires users to be more proactive in their own safety. Paid antivirus software offers additional features such as VPNs, password managers, and identity monitoring, with higher-priced plans providing more comprehensive protection. The article suggests that a basic paid plan that protects against malicious websites and email attachments is a good starting point, and recommends separate services for VPNs and password managers for more control and robust features. [Extracted from the article]

PCWorld has released its list of the best PC hardware and software of 2023, providing library patrons with information on the top products in various categories. The Dell Inspiron Plus 16 laptop was named the best laptop for its impressive performance, battery life, and affordability. The Falcon Northwest FragBox was chosen as the best desktop PC for its power, compact size, and excellent customer service. The Asus ROG Ally was named the best gaming handheld, surpassing the Steam Deck in several categories. Other winners include the Intel Core i7-14700K for best CPU, Norton 360 Deluxe for best antivirus, Corsair MP700 Pro for best SSD, Dashlane for best password manager, Asus Chromebook CM34 Flip for best Chromebook, Sonnet Echo 13 Triple 4K for best Thunderbolt dock, ExpressVPN for best VPN, Razer BlackWidow V4 75% for best keyboard, and AMD Radeon RX 7800 XT for best gaming graphics card. The document also includes categories such as PDF editors, monitors, gaming mice, remote desktop software, USB-C hubs and dongles, Windows backup software, webcams, gaming headsets, online backup services, gaming monitors, laptops for tinkering, and innovations in cooling technology, each with a brief description of the top product and its features. [Extracted from the article]

For apps you install through the Microsoft Store app (aka Windows UWP apps), you can make them full screen by tapping three keys: Win + Shift + Enter. MAKE WINDOWS UWP APPS FULLSCREEN While pressing Win + the up arrow key will maximize any window, it doesn't make the application full screen. DEPARTMENTS You can be a seasoned Windows user, but you may still not know every shortcut that's available. [Extracted from the article]

Your "data" - the information available online and in apps that includes your age, health status, income, interests and more - is quickly becoming one of the most valuable assets for advertisers. From 2017 to 2018, he and his team analyzed more than 17,000 Android apps and did not find a single example of an app covertly activating a phone's microphone to collect audio recordings. IPhone: Settings > Privacy > Location Services > Turn off or adjust by app Android: Settings > Location > App location permissions > Turn off or adjust by app Tell apps to stop asking about tracking. While it's theoretically possible that apps could turn on your mic, have artificial intelligence (AI) transcribe what you're saying and convert that into data for advertisers, it would take a lot of processing power, says Choffnes. [Extracted from the article]

There is a kind of program starter called My Norton through which you manage the actual antivirus program or additional programs such as VPN, a password manager, and cloud backup. In a test by the auditors at AV-Test (fave.co/3Ej1bnY) in March 2023, the program's Mac malware detection earned an impressive score of 100%. WORKING MAC Norton is one of the oldest software utility names in the Mac world and a big name in software security, so we were intrigued by the various Norton 360 bundles, including Norton 360 Plus, Standard, and Deluxe. [Extracted from the article]

HOW IT WORKS As an offline password manager, KeePassXC saves your login info in a database file. A keyfile is a separate file that must be provided along with a password to unlock your database, while a hardware key must be physically inserted into your PC and detected by KeePassXC when you enter your password. KeePassXC also lacks features like password auditing, where it automatically checks if your passwords have been compromised in a data breach, as well as dark web monitoring. BOTTOM LINE Whether you're fed up with online password managers or just mistrust them, KeePassXC is a great way to securely self-manage your passwords. [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]

A newer type are cloud-based firewalls-such as tools classified as firewall as a service-which include many advanced security features that can protect both data at rest in the cloud and on-premises, which suits hybrid cloud architectures. For data security are continually evolving. ENCRYPTION Encryption is the primary way to protect data. [Extracted from the article]

Then you want to choose Apps > Apps & features. Connect the drive to the old computer with a USB cable, then use File Explorer for Windows or Finder on Mac to copy the files you want onto the drive. Free Up Storage on Your Phone QUICKLY CLEAN UP AN ANDROID PHONE You can delete unused apps, duplicate photos, junk files, and more with the Files by Google app. Below that, click on the recommendations iOS will present to you, such as enabling "Offload Unused Apps", which deletes the apps but keeps the user data in case you want to use the apps in the future. [Extracted from the article]

When these are identified by security researchers (or friendly hackers), they usually alert Apple to them in the hope that the company will close the vulnerability quickly - or within zero days - before it is exploited. The vulnerability, which could enable a hacker to gain control of a Mac user's camera, was identified by Ryan Pickren in July 2021 and fixed by Apple in macOS Monterey 12.0.1 on October 25, 2021. In 2021, Apple paid a student $100,000 after he discovered a dangerous vulnerability relating to Macs and reported it to Apple. It's a long-held belief of Mac users that their computers are immune to the kind of malware and viruses that plague Windows PCs. [Extracted from the article]

Some security products that offer both Windows and macOS versions seem to devote equal time and resources to both versions. F-Secure Total for Mac PROS • Includes virus protection, secure browsing, ID monitoring, a VPN, and a password vault in one package. However, there's no password suggestion option as is found in most password managers, so you have to devise your own complex passwords. [Extracted from the article]

Alternatively, you can use the Windows Settings menu (Settings > Apps > Installed apps, or Apps & Features in Windows 10, fave.co/3Wcbxhm) and review which applications you have installed. The Windows Settings menu (Apps > Startup) allow you to toggle apps on and off at startup, along with providing a broad generalization of what effect that will have on your PC. Make sure your PC is up to date via Windows Update (open the Settings menu, then Windows Update, and click "check for updates"). [Extracted from the article]

Password crackers used to run through common words to crack passwords; that may be outdated because of changes in how passwords are stored. IOS CENTRAL Despite the rise of two-factor authentication, password security remains a top priority. Now you should use a password manager, like the built-in one in Apple's operating systems, to create and store a unique, long password for every site and service at which you register. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the drawbacks of using passwords for online security and suggests using passkeys as an alternative. Passkeys are more secure because they cannot be guessed, copies of them do not work, and they cannot be used on phony sites. Passkeys are tied to specific devices and websites, providing protection against phishing and scams. The article also mentions that passkeys are becoming more widely supported by various websites and platforms. However, it is noted that having multiple devices with passkeys is necessary in case one is lost or stolen. The article concludes by stating that passkeys are free and do not require any software management. [Extracted from the article]

CHANGE UP YOUR NEW TAB PAGE Most web browsers' new tab pages are either dreadfully boring (see: Google Chrome) or full of unwanted clutter (see: Microsoft Edge). DEPARTMENTS For the ultimate example of a simple tool with hidden depths, look to the desktop web browser. USE BROWSER BOOKMARKLETS Bookmarklets are a powerful tool that can perform complex actions with one click, all from your browser's bookmarks bar. [Extracted from the article]

The password manager Avira PWM for Safari works just as a Safari extension. Avira PWM meets the basic functions of a password manager, creating and storing secure passwords, applying them when you visit the associated websites, and requiring you to devise a master password to protect the information. The uninstaller and startup app manager both require the Prime edition of Avira. [Extracted from the article]

PERFORMANCE In our performance tests we compared the base speed of our internet to that of different server locations across the world to see how our internet speed connected to a VPN compares to our base internet speed. DEPARTMENTS FastestVPN's name says it all: It aims to be the fastest VPN service around. Additionally, it has a limited number of streaming-specific servers and D-VPN (Double VPN) servers that bounce your connection through more than one server to provide double encryption. [Extracted from the article]

(A sample CSV document is pictured here). gl HOW TO EXPORT YOUR LASTPASS PASSWORDS Getting your passwords out of LastPass is actually very easy. You can't change your LastPass master password and be done - the vault data captured is linked to the master password you had at the time of the hack. [Extracted from the article]

If they have an iPhone or iPad, an authentication or password app will bring up a camera view, or they can use the Camera app to add to an Apple-managed login. I highly recommend against using Google Chrome's password manager, as it lacks device-locked end-to-end security provided by iCloud Keychain and major third-party password managers.) Read passwords aloud: You can also literally read the password aloud and have your descendant repeat it back to you for accuracy. Third-party password managers: With 1Password or other password managers and with a shared vault enabled, you can copy or move the entry to that shared vault. Your kid can use an authentication app (I recommend Authy), a third-party password manager with TOTP support like 1Password, or Apple's built-in TOTP recognition system. [Extracted from the article]

If you're ready to take 2FA more seriously, here are some options to consider: USE AN AUTHENTICATOR APP Instead of sending 2FA codes by text message, most major online services let you use an authenticator app to generate codes on your phone. The authenticator app syncs up to your online service - usually by having you scan a one-time QR code - and from then on, you use the app to look up the code when you're logging in on a new device. While Google and Microsoft both offer their own authenticator apps that work with a wide range of online services, I personally prefer Authy (fave. co/36EzKHx). [Extracted from the article]

FEATURES After years of shortages and product delays, the PC industry slammed on the gas pedal in 2022, unleashing bleeding-edge hardware at a truly frenetic pace. - Sam Singleton PRICE: Free fromfave.co/3HTEYjo FULL REVIEW: fave.co/3MzWBUw BEST USB-C HUB: YEOLIBO 9-IN-1 USB-C HUB (RU9A) USB-C hubs should be cheap and flexible, and this dongle has both qualities in spades (fave.co/30z4JBG). - Dominic Bayley PRICE: $80 from fave.co/3HSOJhp FULL REVIEW: fave.co/3v65Bd1 BEST WINDOWS BACKUP SOFTWARE: R-DRIVE IMAGE 7 Always a favorite of ours here at PCWorld, R-Drive Image (fave.co/3Wslx4Z) is consistently solid Windows backup software (fave.co/3nlNb3Z). - Katherine Stevenson PRICE: $399 from fave.co/3hJGuJW FULL REVIEW: fave.co/3Gb1lzx BEST REMOTE DESKTOP SOFTWARE: TEAMVIEWER OR REMOTEPC BY iDRIVE This year's best remote desktop software (fave.co/3GajKfN) is a toss-up between the free-to-use TeamViewer (fave.co/3MzWBUw)and the premium RemotePC by iDrive (fave.co/3jfBs8x). [Extracted from the article]

But the rest of the browser - tabs, bookmarks, password management, and so on - is custom code written by DuckDuckGo. DuckDuckGo's Mac browser is amazing for YouTube, but it still needs work WORKING MAC After months of private beta testing, the DuckDuckGo browser for Mac beta is now available to anyone (grab it at fave.co/3VQ1g9t if you're interested in checking it out). [Extracted from the article]

The Surface Pro 9 is built on an Intel 12th-gen Core chip (Alder Lake), while the Surface Pro 9 (5G) uses a separate SQ3 chip co-developed by Qualcomm to Microsoft's specifications. DEPARTMENTS We recommend that you consider buying the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (5G) Windows tablet, with an Arm chip - not an Intel or AMD chip - inside. Put against the Surface Pro 8, there's simply little point of comparison: Previous Surface tablets have punched above their weight in terms of audio quality, and the Surface Pro 9 (5G) seems to be trading on that legacy with less to back it up. We're also told that Microsoft does not plan to sell a 5G version of the Surface Pro 9 with a Core chip inside, either - if you want an always-connected Surface Pro 9, the Surface Pro 9 (5G) is it. [Extracted from the article]

PASSWORD MANAGERS: A RECAP As a refresher, password managers are a great way to break the bad habit of using the same or similar passwords across multiple apps or websites, or even having to remember lots of passwords in the first place. Here's how it works, using Bitwarden as an example: • Install the Bitwarden extension (fave.co/3MPlhtu) for your web browser and the Bitwarden app on iOS (fave.co/3D9CGd0) or Android (fave.co/ 3TdzT8a). [Extracted from the article]

Malpractice and cyberliability insurance applications are increasingly asking for information about how firms are securing data, including device encryption. Be sure to enable the encryption and record the unique, strong password in your password manager. Commercial encryption software from Symantec, VeraCrypt (all operating systems) or Disk Utility for Mac have encryption tools for any device. Portal computing and storage devices used for firm business should be secured with encryption. [Extracted from the article]

DEPARTMENTS Managing Tools exist passwords to help (like is pain. password managers, fave.co/3lRkfRz) but staying on top of them remains dreary work. The amount of time it takes to set up a passcode is breathtakingly fast, but its implementation is still unfolding slowly, as you can see from this list (fave.co/3pJDAsu) hosted by password manager 1Password. [Extracted from the article]

A massive collection of leaked, breached, and sold data containing 26 billion records has been discovered on the web. Cybersecurity researchers believe that most of the information comes from known sources, but there is also likely new, unpublished data included. This large data set poses increased risks of identity theft and credential-stuffing attacks. Users can check if their information has been compromised using services like Have I Been Pwned. To protect themselves, individuals are advised to use unique, strong, and random passwords, consider using email masks, and use a password manager for better online security. [Extracted from the article]

Identity theft protection services can be helpful in spotting red flags quickly, but they do not prevent criminals from targeting individuals. These services typically offer account monitoring, alerts, and restoration support after identity theft has occurred. However, they can create a false sense of security and may lead users to neglect basic cyber hygiene practices. While some paid ID protection plans offer valuable features such as VPNs and password managers, others may include flashy but ineffective features like identity theft insurance. It is important to carefully evaluate the features and effectiveness of different plans before subscribing. Free alternatives, such as services provided by financial institutions or through employers, may already be available to individuals. Taking preventative actions, such as using unique passwords, enabling multifactor authentication, and installing software updates, is crucial in protecting one's identity. [Extracted from the article]

Because of how Apple throttles and controls password input to deter cracking, its password doesn't have to be nearly as long as ones stored elsewhere in which a password cracker could obtain the encrypted form of the password and perform trillions of offline brute-force tests. But also… Password manager password: Except for iCloud Keychain, set a strong password that you memorize and otherwise make unavailable to other parties. Strong passwords: To prevent people from guessing your passwords, make sure that at all services at which you store private data or leave a record of what you do, you have what's currently considered a strong password. [Extracted from the article]

The vulnerability scan is Bitdefender's take on what is an increasingly common approach to security scanning: It checks whether you're behind on operating system updates, the strength of your Windows account passwords, the security of the browser and other applications, network issues, and more. BOTTOM LINE Bitdefender Total Security offers top protection with a number of extra features including a safe payment environment, VPN, and a secure file deletion utility. [Extracted from the article]