Did you know that your TV is vulnerable to privacy breaches? Here’s what you need to do to protect it, in 60 seconds.
5 ways to increase your PC's download speed
You may have a poor internet connection if downloads take forever to reach 100%. Outages or poorly-constructed websites could also be to blame. Whatever the cause is, try these tricks to increase the download speed on your PC.
Why your PC is suddenly slow
Before diving into a few solutions, let’s look at potential causes. Firstly, think about the type of internet connection you have. Depending on what you’re working with, you may have a higher risk for slow download speeds. Tap or click here for 10 ways to speed up your Wi-Fi.
Dial-up connections are notoriously slower than other types. However, a DSL connection can also grind your internet speed to a halt if your equipment is old — or if you’re far away from your provider’s closest exchange. Not sure what that means? Here’s a quick recap:
- Think of an exchange as a central hub your ISP uses to transmit data over long distances.
- When you sign up for a DSL service, your home or office connects to the closest exchange through telephone wiring.
- Thus, if your computer is far away from the exchange, you’re dealing with a weaker signal. That means your internet connection could be sluggish.
Maybe you have a cable internet connection instead. Since other people in your neighborhood may be using the same connection, your internet can slow down. Of course, that means your download speeds can decelerate.
Here are a few more reasons why your downloads are taking so long
📶 Your ISP could deliberately slow down your internet connection. Here’s a free way to check if that’s why your download speeds are slow.
💻 You can also blame older devices since they may lack the features necessary to handle faster speeds.
📂 Big browser extensions can be to blame, too. Also, having too many open tabs can slow your download pace. Use this simple trick to clear up your browser tab clutter.
🛑 If you exceed your data limit, you might be shooting yourself in the foot. Your connection could slow down if you don’t stay within limits.
🏠 Your home’s physical layout may be getting in the way of your router’s signals. Moving your router is a great way to speed up your internet.
How to increase your download speed
First, restart your PC. This easy fix can shut down background processes that take up storage space. Look through your apps and programs, too. If a program is open that you don’t need, turn it off.
While you’re at it, check out your startup apps. These are the programs that automatically start whenever you boot up your computer. They can slow down your computer, so turn off any you don’t need by following these steps:
- Go to the Start menu > Settings > Apps > Startup.
- Then, click the slider next to each app to disable or enable it.
Next, clear your cache and cookies. Follow these steps on Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari and Brave. After that, disconnect other devices on your network you aren’t using. They could be hogging up all the bandwidth you need.
Does a VPN slow down your connection? Answers to 6 common VPN questions
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Let’s face it, the internet can be a scary and unpredictable place when it comes to maintaining your privacy and security. You never know who may be keeping virtual tabs on you.
Whether it’s a hacker or scammer out to get your personal info, a government agency or even your creepy neighbor, you need to secure your web browsing.
Patch Tuesday: Updates for Windows 11 versions 23H2, 22H2 and 21H2 just dropped. Top of the list? A fix for that annoying bug that caused VPN connections to fail. Your PC should handle this update automatically, or go DIY if you’re feeling antsy: Start > Settings > Windows Update > Check for Updates.
4 things to try if a website won't load
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Nothing can throw off your surfing groove more than a website that won’t load. You stare at the blank, white wall of your screen, wondering, “Is that it?” Luckily, there are a few different ways you can try to make the website cooperate.
Antivirus vs. VPN: Do you need both for online privacy and security?
You probably know that bad guys lurk within every corner of the internet. You have to watch out for spyware, ransomware, phishing attacks, IoT invasions and more. Oh, and don’t forget “zero-click attacks.” Researchers recently discovered hackers used military-grade spyware to remotely access iPhones and even replicate their data.
How to unlock international Netflix to access more movies and shows
If you’re a big streamer who craves new content, you may cast your eyes towards foreign content. Unfortunately, streaming platforms like Netflix don’t show the same shows and movies in every country. Thanks to the complex spiderweb of global licenses, you can’t stream whatever you want on Netflix. There are a ton of limitations getting in the way.
Your ISP is watching — Here's what it knows about you
You probably know by now that your internet service provider watches what you do. After all, a tiny bit of surveillance helps these companies provide the best services possible. But many ISPs collect data beyond their scope, according to a new report from the FTC.
Money-saving tool you need before you start holiday shopping
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Have you ever had the strange feeling of being watched when you’re browsing online? Well, the truth is you are. Shopping sites track you.
In some cases, you may see prices for certain things go up every time you check. A rental car might be $50 per day the first time you check prices, but it bumps up to $55 when you go back to book it. The same thing happens with hotels and airline tickets.
5 common VPN issues and how to fix them
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VPNs, or virtual private networks, are typically set and forget services that don’t require a lot of troubleshooting. Unfortunately, this doesn’t mean there aren’t problems with VPNs you might have to address from time to time.
Security tip: How to set up a VPN on all your devices
If you’re security and privacy-conscious, you need to take all the steps you can to keep yourself safe online. That starts with the right VPN.
Not using a VPN is like leaving your front door unlocked every time you go out. Sure, nothing might happen for years, but when something does happen, it’s devastating.
Your ISP sees everything you do online - Here's how to stop it
We all know that Google, Amazon and Facebook are tracking us, but have you really thought about your ISP? That’s short for “internet service provider.” Depending on where you live, you may have a few to choose from — or maybe there’s only one.
Smartphone security: Do you need a VPN on your phone?
Compared to computers, smartphones have weak defenses and easy-to-crack passwords. They’ve also got a ton of valuable data. Just think about everything on your phone.
Chances are your work email is connected, which means a savvy cybercriminal could steal your company’s secrets. There’s also your contacts list, which is stuffed with phone numbers and maybe even emails.
Warning: Free VPNs are putting you at risk
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There’s nothing wrong with trying to save a little money every now and then. Cutting back on dining out or getting a $6 latte every day is a good place to start.
But one thing you definitely don’t want to skimp on is online security. You think you’re saving money with free VPN downloads or apps, but they will cost you in the end.
5 hidden ways a VPN can make life better and more secure
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Between all the cybercriminals and downright snoops in the world, it’s getting more difficult to protect your privacy.
A VPN gives you a secure bridge between your devices and the internet. You might not even realize just how important this is and all the ways a VPN comes in handy. Keep reading for five uses you might not know about.
The essential privacy tool to protect you from Big Tech
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My inbox is filled with people asking how they can stay out of Big Tech’s reach.
It starts with the services you use. Yes, they’re mostly free, but remember what you’re paying with: Your data. Tap or click here for services you can use that aren’t under Big Tech’s control.
Small-biz essential: How to pick the best VPN
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Blocking threats online feels like a neverending game of whack-a-mole. That’s why it’s important to take safety precautions before it’s too late and a criminal already has compromised your system. The best way to protect yourself is with a virtual private network.
9 security mistakes people make when working from home
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COVID-19 got you working from home? If not, you might be soon. In cities where the virus has spread, local authorities are advising schools and businesses close temporarily to prevent further transmission.
That said, transitioning to working from home from working on-site is a complex task. Crewmember roles need to be adjusted for digital access and protocols must be in place to make sure work doesn’t slip through the cracks. Tap or click to find out how to prepare your business for coronavirus.
5 critical reasons you need VPN protection
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Do you consider yourself a privacy-conscious person? Are you concerned about your online safety? Well, you’re certainly not alone. The hard truth is by surfing the web or making any transactions online while connected to a network that’s not secure, you’re exposing private info and buying habits for anyone to see.
Spyware watches everything you do. Is your phone or computer infected?
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Your everyday tech holds so much valuable information. Between your computer, smartphone and tablet, we’re talking precious photos, private files and enough personal data to make hackers come running.
And with more and more of our information stored digitally, we’re exposed like never before to cybercriminals who want to get their hands on it. One of the sneakiest ways they do it? Spyware.