5 Things to Consider When Setting Up Event WiFi

Inside your home, it’s crucial to have WiFi. But when traversing the world outside, it’s not always expected that every building you enter will have accessible high-speed internet. As more coffee shops, restaurants, and stores integrate free WiFi, it becomes more expected for business owners to provide this luxury.

Many of the general public’s feelings about restaurants and businesses providing free WiFi are the same expectation for conventions and public events. With 84 million smartphone users in the US, having available internet is a necessity for attendees. Here are some things to consider when setting up WiFi for your function.

Budget your WiFi

Hosting an event can be for ten people or it can be for ten thousand. The first thing to consider when hosting a public function is how many attendees will likely come to the function. More WiFi power will require a more expensive package, depending on how many people RSVP and how large the space is.

An abundance of attendees means ensuring high-speed internet reaches every cellular device without interruption. This will be more costly for planning since more funds will go to WiFi extenders and upgraded internet packages. Make sure your budget can handle a massive investment in WiFi, or you might have to charge your guests who use the event’s internet.

WiFi Usage

Though having available cellular service for event attendees is excellent, many use their smartphones for other reasons. People could log on to social media, snap a quick picture at a function, or access a data-heavy presentation. Figuring out how your attendees will use their phones during the event will help you pick out the perfect WiFi package.

If your event is for a training seminar or is interactive, attendees would be using their laptops or phones simultaneously. Everyone connected to the WiFi at the same time could dampen the connection. If your event is likely to have this kind of internet traffic, ensuring you’re purchasing a quality high-speed package is imperative.

WiFi Can Help Engagement and Advertisement

Providing free WiFi to a room of a thousand people is a high expense. Though your team might have to budget a hefty amount for the best WiFi package, the ROI, or return on investment, can be highly profitable.

If your event has anything to do with your business or your product, then having free, uninterrupted WiFi is an absolute must. With smartphone users sporting many social media apps, attendees posting about your event is instantaneous free advertising. Mainly if your function revolves around a product, it’s necessary to provide efficient WiFi. If attendees consistently post about your product on social media, your return on investment might be substantial due to the free public outreach.

Research Internet Providers

Though it may seem counterintuitive, some of the biggest names of internet providers might be the wrong fit for a significant function. Do your research online about which WiFi service could give your event the best results based on your event space and number of attendees.

Most large companies focus on working with home and apartment-style modems. These modems only need to work for one or two floors and in relatively small square footage. Another issue with large internet providers is their support policies, where technicians are penalized for fixing an issue too slowly, potentially making the technicians rush the job.

Working with smaller, local internet providers could be better if you have trouble with setting up your WiFi connection. Research the internet company to see their support policies before making a final purchase.

Pick the Perfect Bandwidth

Bandwith is something all internet users have heard but might not be able to define. Bandwidth means the maximum of data transferred with a particular internet connection. Having a lower bandwidth usually means cheaper since the internet connection cannot withstand massive data.

For most events with many guests, looking into dedicated bandwidth might be a good option. Dedicated bandwidth operates through one user instead of stretching out the internet connection to many participants through broadband. This option can help with latency issues but needs fiber optic cables in the event’s building to work correctly. If your event space does not have fiber optic cables, purchasing point-to-point antennas is your next best option.

Providing free internet is something everyone wants nowadays. Various factors play into what type of WiFi you’ll need for optimal success for an event. These tips will help anyone attempting to set up free, efficient WiFi for an event or function.

5 Ways High Speed Internet Can Improve Your Business

Internet is a valuable, imperative part of our lives and our workspaces. Without functioning internet, most tasks would be excruciating to fulfill. With technology only advancing in our favor, rapid-speed, efficient internet is highly accessible and relatively inexpensive. Here are five ways high-speed internet can improve your life and your business. 

High-Speed Is More Affordable  

Because high-speed internet is marketed as better, the preconceived notion might be that it’s much more expensive. But that’s not the case; though the initial price might be steeper than a standard package, paying for quicker internet services won’t be too much of a cost jump. 

Most high-speed internet providers will have a service called VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol). What this service allows you to do is to connect telephone line services to your internet provider. If you work in a business with many different phones and extensions in the workplace, combining these two services could save you exorbitant amounts of money.  

VOIP is compatible with your company’s handsets, headsets, laptops, and other communication devices. Having a two-in-one service will yield better financial results for a business that operates with many employees. 

Privacy  

In this day and age, cybersecurity is an absolute necessity. With major companies like Facebook revealing that they’ve sold users’ information for profit, protecting personal data has become urgent. Purchasing high-speed internet for your company will usually come with better, more secure data protection.    

Paying a little extra for better internet efficiency often comes with superior privacy technology. Preventing security threats is a top priority for any business, so making sure you purchase a high-speed internet package will be in everyone’s best interests. 

Slow internet could also lead to a preventable breach. Inefficient internet allows for more pauses between data transfers, which is the perfect time for a hacker to attack. Faster data transfers between employees will help prevent potential data interferences and keep your business running smoothly. 

Communication 

If you have many employees under you or just a few coworkers you interact with, uninterrupted communication is critical. High-speed internet aids in better collaboration and more productivity overall. 

Amid this pandemic, many offices transitioned to a work-from-home policy. Working remotely is now more common than ever, making fast, reliable internet essential for timely communication. Implementing high-speed internet will help keep everyone up-to-date with tasks, no matter where each collaborator is stationed. 

Stronger Signal 

For those who have returned to the office, reliable internet needs to be accessible from anywhere in the workplace. High-speed internet is more capable of spanning longer distances, ensuring that every office can access the signal they need. 

As a workspace grows, more employees will need their own spaces. Adding more cubicles or expanding the physical business can weaken a router’s signal. The farther someone is from the router, the more potential for interference. Having high-speed internet for your office will help feed stronger WiFI signals to the entire workspace. 

Reducing Stress 

Work is already stressful. Supplying efficient, reliable internet is the least an employer can do to keep everyone happy and productive. 

Everyone has experienced the moment of pure agony when the WiFi signal goes out during an important project or task. These types of situations are inevitable, but there are definite ways to diminish the possibility of office-wide internet problems. Getting high-speed internet won’t only be cost-efficient in the long run, but it will lead to a less-stressed workplace. If receiving a solid signal is no longer a worry, everyone will be able to do their work productively without added stress from the internet lagging. 

Any modern business has internet provided. But, picking out the right bundle is where many workplaces falter. Cutting costs on a standard package will often lead a company to more stressed employees, possible data breaches, and frustrating WiFi outages. High-speed internet will improve your business entirely, from more jubilant workers to clearer office communication.

6 Best Video Conferencing Software Providers for 2022

Since the beginning of the pandemic, video conferencing has been an integral part of our lives. Whether it’s catching up with friends or discussing projects with coworkers, video-chat software has aided all of us. In 2022, here are the best video software to stay connected. 

Zoom

What video-chatting list would be complete without Zoom? The program that’s become synonymous with video conferencing altogether, Zoom rose to prominence in 2020. 

The free option is helpful for its reliability and its capacity to host many people at a time. Up to 100 people can join one Zoom session, making it the perfect software for offices and schools. Sending files, gifs, and photos is easy and at no additional price, helping everyone stay as connected as possible. 

Download Zoom on your computers here: https://zoom.us/ 

WebEx Meetings 

WebEx Meetings is a popular video conferencing software for businesses. WebEx Meetings is reliable, adaptable, and has many additional office bonuses. 

WebEx Meetings is excellent for the workplace for background noise removal, smaller virtual breakout rooms, and customizable layouts. Realtime language translations are included in the program, ensuring cross-nation communication is productive and straightforward. Automatic transcriptions, highlights, and notetaking are available for hosts and guests, allowing for more dynamic collaboration. 

More about WebEx Meetings can be found on their website: https://www.webex.com/

BlueJeans Meetings  

Another video conferencing software specific for the office is BlueJeans Meetings. Like WebEx Meetings, BlueJeans incorporates laptops, phones, and room systems into one meeting. 

Users have highly favored its extreme reliability, with almost zero delay time between callers. With many tools to collaborate, BlueJeans is one of the most successful office web conferencing software on the market. 

The standard price is $9.99 a month, with the most expensive package only $16.66 per month: https://www.bluejeans.com/products/meetings 

Google Workspace 

Google Workspace is the best software for sharing and viewing Google-related documents. Seamlessly integrating Gmail, Google Drive, Docs, and Slides, collaborating with your friends or coworkers is easier than ever.     

The user-friendly design makes it a great video conferencing program for beginners. Especially when most people have experience with Google interfaces, this software makes it a go-to for many companies. It also can incorporate Google Drive into the conferences, allowing everyone to interact and discuss documents together. 

Find out More about Google Workspace here: https://workspace.google.com/pricing.html 

GoTo Meeting

With a 99.9% uptime, GoTo Meeting also regards itself as one of the most reliable video conferencing programs. 

While most of these programs are downloadable, GoTo operates on the website. It’s easy to use since anyone can join and invite a guest as well. Video conferences can include up to 250 members, perfect for large companies. The clarity with both audio and video makes GoTo an impeccable software for socializing or corporate meetings. 

There’s a 14-day trial, with the standard plan starting at $12 a month. 

DialPad 

Used as a socializing application, this program has HD video software for vibrant,  face-to-face chatting. 

With DialPad, you can start video chats from a web browser without downloading pesky. There’s also an application for phones if you need to take video conferencing on the go. It includes in-meeting chatting, screen sharing, and unlimited calls for entirely free software. 

Get DialPad for free to experience state-of-the-art video calling software: https://www.dialpad.com/ 

In 2022, there will be many different video-chatting programs to choose from. Whether you’re in an office meeting or trying to reconnect with old colleagues, these programs are helping us connect and collaborate during an unprecedented time. With these six programs, you’ll be able to utilize top-tier video conferencing in your day-to-day life.

5 Smart Home Trends for 2022

2022 is another year of incredible innovation and unique technology. With Elon Musk’s consistent launching of satellites to fuel-efficient cars, nothing is too complex for modern manufacturers. 

While space travel is excellent, what technologies in 2022 will improve our day-to-day life? Here are some of the best smart home trends you need to know this year.

Sensors  

Motion sensors are a definite trend in homes nationwide. Sensors like the ones from Ecobee are small and maneuverable, perfect for any surface in your home. 

Ecobee’s SmartSensors operate in a plethora of ways for optimal comfortability and safety. The product can detect when you’re in the room, triggering your thermostat to turn on the heat. In the case of a break-in, the SmartSensors is compatible with Ecobee’s Smart System to notify you of an unwanted presence. 

These tiny objects are the way of the future, and sensors are becoming more ubiquitous in the average household.

Smart Toilets 

These days, everyone wants the most out of their gadgets. But, many don’t assume that toilets would be the appliance needing an upgrade. Toto’s Wellness Toilet is undoubtedly a trend of the future, designed to provide health management advice based on your bowel movements. 

Though this specific type of toilet is not on the market, Toto has hinted at its release in the coming year. The toilet would be able to scan your body and poop to assess what changes you need in your diet. These notifications would pop up on a phone app, giving you details about your food intake while documenting your bowel improvements. 

You can check out more about Toto’s futuristic toilets here: https://www.totousa.com/ces_2021 

Ring Always Home Cam

Set to release sometime this year, Ring Always Home Cam is equipped with a drone designed to roam and protect your household. 

The Ring Always Home Cam has object-avoidant sensors, a 1080p camera, and a sleek, black finish. The drone will be able to fly around your house while avoiding valuable objects and walls. The footage it picks up with its camera will be available on the Ring app, providing homeowners with a 360-degree live stream at any time. You can also set the drone’s runtime, forcing it to return to its charging port upon completion.   

More information is available about Ring products on the website: https://ring.com/

Artificial Intelligence 

If you watch any sci-fi movie, you’ll know that robots are the most prominent indication of an advanced society. Vocal refrigerators and appliances that track your whereabouts are now standard amenities, and we can only expect home AI to become more and more complex. 

Many expect a rise in smart kitchen and bathroom products to hit the market this year. Even appliances like bathroom mirrors have changed to interact with its homeowners. 

The Eschelon Smart Mirror is an excellent example of this; this smart mirror has the power to project live workouts on its HD screen, and it’ll give you direct feedback on your performance. Who knew mirrors could act as complete, interactive TVs in 2022? 

Home Integration 

As technology excels, homeowners and renters expect elevated products and appliances. Many developers and realtors are changing what they install inside homes based on modern expectations. 

A huge trend for 2022 is having a home equipped with a smart system, like Amazon’s Alexa. With a central system, homeowners can control their space and ensure every room is taken care of. 

By installing smart systems that interact with each other, like smart sensors and water monitors, devices can take care of potential issues without a physical human present. 

In 2022, homes will be more advanced than we ever could’ve imagined. Drone surveillance, AI, and interactive mirrors are trends that will continue to elevate throughout the next few years. Smart homes are becoming less of a futuristic phenomenon and more of an expectation for families nationwide.

Best Alternatives for Google Owned Products

In 2022, we know massively more about social media and search engines than years prior. Many are turning their backs on Google-owned products and applications. Google’s engines run on personal data collection, so deciding to part ways with the technology giant is understandable. 

Whether you have an issue with Google as a brand or not, other tech companies exist for consumers to try. Here are some of the best alternatives for technology enthusiasts wanting to branch out. 

Brave Browser

Brave Browser is a browser with a privacy focus. If you are wary of having your personal information stolen online, transferring to this browser is a great option. 

Brae Browser comes with ad-block and pop-up blockers, so no need for additional downloads. Without ads, you’re able to peruse the world wide web privately. No more will you search for cooking recipes and find targeted ads for winter coats. The engine isn’t collecting your data, so advertisers can’t interrupt your internet time.  

Find out more about Brave Browser and all its features here: https://brave.com/ 

ProtonMail 

Email is synonymous with Gmail these days. For those wanting a change in this department, ProtonMail is a fantastic alternative. 

ProtonMail is, first and foremost, a Swiss company. Switzerland is at the forefront of internet privacy law, ensuring ProtonMail’s ethos of protecting your data. The company uses end-to-end encryption, which means its engineers cannot decrypt users’ emails. 

ProtonMail comes without installing software so that you can access the site with any device. Transferring to this emailing platform is a breeze, too, with no hassle receiving emails from Gmail or other messengers. 

Starting your account is completely free, so what’s stopping you from giving ProtonMail a try? https://protonmail.com/ 

Odysee 

Like Gmail, YouTube is known for its distinctive, user-driven videos. Growing up in the rise of YouTube, many of us are clueless that other video-content platforms exist. Odysee is one non-Google platform taking the video world by storm. 

Just like Youtube, Odysee is a website that its users entirely propel. The site began as an independent force with reinvented community guidelines. Platforms owned by the same company meant more rules dictated by massive entities like Google. CEO Jeremy Koffman wanted to split from this technological dictatorship, establishing Odysee as a more free-thinking platform. 

While the website has safety guidelines, Odysee advertises user autonomy with less oversight. This independence attracted users by the millions to Odysee and changed the game for independent creators. 

Check out more about Odysee in all of its glory here:  https://odysee.com/

Waze 

There is a multitude of applications for finding directions. Google Maps is a popular one, but many might be familiar with Waze as well. 

Waze is a direction app that focuses on the fastest way to reach your destination. Visual representations of traffic appear on your screen, and updates about collisions and roadwork pop up in real-time. You can also use Waze to plan ahead, with app recommendations on leaving time and ETA. 

Waze incorporates live traffic, accidents, and pit stops into your daily routine. It’s great for every day or planning an extensive road trip, so maybe it’s time to ditch Google Maps for good. https://www.waze.com/waze 

DuckDuckGo

DuckDuckGo is another search engine that prioritizes user privacy. Either as its website or extension to chrome, DuckDuckGo is extraordinarily versatile and intuitive. Like Brave Browser, this company is putting a significant focus on private web browsing. Google’s engine holds onto people’s search history by default, making its users the perfect target for advertisers. DuckDuckGo does not track search history and can repel Google’s trackers while you use its Chrome extension. 

DuckDuckGo promises faster internet usage when switching to its search engine.  After the suspension of tracking codes, you’ll be able to browse the internet without interruption. Its easy search feature called “Bangs” allows you to use the search engine as a shortcut for other sites like Wikipedia or Youtube.

DuckDuckGo brings something innovative to the table while ensuring maximum privacy. Check out the website here: https://duckduckgo.com/?va=b&t=hc 

With information leaks and companies selling personal data, using the internet ethically and safely is more important than ever. These are the best alternatives for making a switch from Google products. YouTube and Gmail might feel indispensable, but these products sure give Google a run for its money. 

6 Best Apps For Self Improvement & Goal Tracking For 2022

Writing down your goals for the new year is an essential step for change.  But, does putting your goals in writing actually help your improvement process?  

A list is all it takes to start self-improvement for some people.  A helpful push is necessary for goals to become a reality for others.  This uncertainty is where the App Store comes into play.  

Goal tracking and personal improvement apps are all over the internet.  Choosing the right ones, well, that’s another dilemma.  Here are some of the absolute best apps for setting resolutions this holiday season.

Click Up

Click Up might be old news for you since it’s one of the App Store’s most popular.  It’s a free goal management and productivity app that’s visually appealing and intuitive.  

You can create, edit, and organize your personal goals.  The app offers additional pieces to help you achieve these goals, like due dates and reminders.  Separating goals based on categories, like business and personal, acts as a beneficial organizing tool.

“Weekly scorecards,” another facet of the app, lets you break down your goals step-by-step.  This feature can be great for coworkers and groups, with options to allow everyone to see each other’s goals.  Having shared and public goals make us more accountable for the responsibilities we set.  

This app will have you fulfilling your New Year’s resolutions in no time.  Check out more about Click Up here: https://clickup.com/

Weekdone 

Weekdone is another app insistent on week-by-week goal achievements. 

 It tracks long-term and short-term goals, accessible metrics, and reminders.  You can manage your goals by importance, making sure you prioritize the things you need to finish quicker.  Weekdone also includes dashboards, which are helpful for collective or team goals.  Allowing the user to see if everyone’s on top of their tasks makes everyone more accountable.  

Weekdone has a free plan, but more tools are available for upgrading to a monthly schedule.  You can read all about Weekdone here:  https://weekdone.com/ 

Way of Life App 

The Way of Life app is perfect for setting goals in 2022.  This app is your best bet for anyone who needs a push to create healthy habits.  

You start Way of Life by making a list of habits you’re trying to break or start.  After that, the app will remind you daily to ensure you’re following your intentions.  These tasks are color-coded intuitively: green indicates a completed goal, and red indicates an incomplete one.  There are many parts to customize with your goals, including deadlines and reminders.  

The Way of Life app has everything that’ll get your habits aligned next year.  See more about the app here: https://wayoflifeapp.com/ 

LifeRPG 

Sometimes the brain needs a little tricking to get all of our tasks done.  But what if the gimmick is to make your life into a video game?  

LifeRPG takes gamer language and a high-tech layout to make task-completing more exciting.  First off, the goals that you set are known as “missions.”  The missions include three parameters (difficult, fear, and urgency) that you can customize. The difficulty parameter is for explaining how tough the task is to complete. The fear parameter indicates the level of anxiousness you feel about a specific goal. Completing a mission means winning a number of points, just like in a video game. 

Inject some fun into your New Year’s resolution with LifeRPG: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.jayvant.liferpgmissions&hl=en_US&gl=US 

Headspace 

One of the most downloaded meditation apps, Headspace has plenty to offer for improving the mind and spirit.  

First off, meditation is proven to lower anxiety and help manage stress.  There are guided meditations on the app that are perfect for people on the go.  The ten-minute sessions are great for beginners and workaholics; thirty-minute and hour-long sessions are also available for more experienced yogis.  

If improving sleep is on your 2022 wishlist, Headspace is here to help.  This app is ready to get your sleep cycle in check with bedtime stories, relaxing music, and before-bed exercises.  

Headspace is available for monthly or yearly subscriptions.  Check out the website for their subscription deals and more:  https://www.headspace.com/

Happier 

A more emotional take on self-improvement, the Happier app is designed to make a habit of self-reflection.  

For some, working is so time-consuming that checking in emotionally never occurs.  Simply understanding our mood, and appreciating the little things, can drastically improve our livelihood.      

In Happier, joy and satisfaction are skills you can achieve.  With holistic self-evaluations, the app assesses your happiness and offers advice on accomplishing your goals.  Happier is also known to send you inspiring quotes throughout the day, reminding you of your mindfulness goals.  

It’s a fantastic app if you’re looking to track your goals and boost your mood.  Find out more about Happier and The Happier Project here: https://the-happiness-project.com/pages/happier-app 

Accomplishing the goals we set for ourselves is beyond challenging.  In the 21st century, there are luckily plenty of options to guide us on our self-improvement journey.  2022 will be a year of resolutions, and this list of apps will get you there with swiftness and ease.  

6 Favorite Tech Gifts for the Holidays

Gift giving: one of the most challenging elements of the holidays.  Figuring out what present is best for each family member is a frustrating and defeating task.  But, all hope isn’t lost this holiday season.  

If you’ve got a family member, friend, or loved one who likes technology, there are some budget-friendly options.  New products are constantly released, so keeping up with these gadgets can be troublesome.  Here are some excellent tech products to gift somebody this holiday season to make this time more manageable.  

Roku 

If your friend invites you over to watch TV but has no streaming services available, this gift is the perfect fix.  

Many are familiar with this powerful gizmo; its limitless nature allows users to stream Netflix, watch Youtube, and even check email.  Roku lets you add endless channels to your device, from Criterion to Disney+.  You’ll never have a boring night of TV again, with multiple programs and services at your fingertips.  

Roku is available at superstores around the country and online. https://www.roku.com/ 

PetCube 

Pets are a crucial part of our family unit.  But It’s stressful wondering if your dog or cat is behaving when you’re not around.  The PetCube is an excellent present for those family members who stress about their pets’ whereabouts.  

PetCube is a versatile HD camera with a 110º angle for maximum clarity.  It includes night vision up to 30 feet and superb zoom-in features.  There’s even an option to chat with a vet if you have questions or worries about your beloved pet.  

For less than $40, it’s the perfect, affordable option for your animal-loving pal.  Buy it straight from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088C4NHRS?ots=1&slotNum=23&imprToken=f6be6bb2-7b10-a400-e05&tag=usatgiftguide-20 

Victrola Vintage Portable Record Player

Collecting vinyl is a whole rigamarole these days.  Purchasing speakers, finding a quality turntable, and repairing old machinery makes this hobby pricey and inconvenient.  

The Victoria Portable Record Player is the ideal gift for your music-loving friend, and it won’t break the bank.  For less than $45, this tiny suitcase opens up to a full-size record player with high-quality speakers.  There’s even a Bluetooth function to connect your iPhone for endless tunes on the go. 

With a retro design and countless colors to choose from, this record player is absolute perfection.  Check them out here: https://victrola.com/collections/suitcase

1MORE Stylish Dual-Dynamic Wired Earbuds    

What is a better present for the holidays than headphones?  Finding an affordable option can be difficult, but these earbuds are perfect without sacrificing quality.  

For the price, the caliber of these earbuds is unparalleled.  With a pink, shimmery finish, these headphones are luxury on a budget.  They come with an in-line microphone to answer calls and a three-button remote for pausing songs and changing volume.  

You can purchase them at Walmart here:  ​​https://www.walmart.com/ip/1MORE-E1025GLD-Stylish-Dual-Dynamic-In-ear-Headphones-Gold/833638123

Nomad Kevlar Universal USB Cable   

A USB cable might not be your first thought for a holiday gift, but it’s a gadget that certainly comes in handy.  

This cable has three separate USB ports for simultaneous charging.  It contains one micro-USB cable with Lightning for the updated iPhones and two USB-C ports for Android and other devices.  The Nomad cable reaches up to five feet and has an exterior fiber sheath for maximum durability, making it essential for extended car rides.  

This long-lasting device is the essential gift for your friend with too many devices.  Grab it at any REI store: ​​ https://www.rei.com/product/173426/nomad-universal-cable-usb-a?cm_mmc=aff_AL-_-40661-_-55097-_-NA&avad=55097_e249f1f31 

Fujifilm Instant Camera

Vintage styles are constantly falling back into fashion but flared jeans aren’t the only trend that’s repeating.  Technology often circulates similarly, and that’s certainly true for the Polaroid camera.  With Fujifilm, you’ll get all the fun of a Polaroid with a modern twist.

These cute, pastel cameras pop out instant images with unprecedented quality.  They come with an automatic flash for perfectly-exposed pictures.  There’s even a selfie-mode function with a built-in mirror to make group photos easy and flawless. 

Buy these terrific party accompaniments here.

Gadgets these days are expensive, and finding the right one can be even more difficult.  This list will have you singing a different tune with powerful tech on a dime.  If you’re running out of ideas, these gifts are perfect for making the holiday season merry and bright.  

Virtual Private Network (VPN): Benefits & Use Cases for Protection & Privacy

In our modern world, so much of our lives revolve around the internet.  It’s what we use for work, pleasure, and everything in between.  With countless hours spent on the world wide web, the line between public and private is often blurred.  

Though the internet is excellent, putting yourself online has its drawbacks.  Sites like Facebook getting sued for selling users’ data is no laughing matter.  So how can we assure ourselves that our virtual information is safe?  

If you’re searching for more secure surfing options, a VPN is the perfect answer.  VPN stands for Virtual Private Network, and its benefits are numerous.  If you’re still on the fence, here are some opportunities a VPN can offer.  

Data Privacy Within Your House 

Is surfing the web potentially dangerous, even on your private Wi-Fi?  While accessing your private connection, you’re still using your ISP: internet service provider.  Whether your provider is Comcast, Verizon, etc., your specific ISP has complete access to your browsing history and data.  Even using an incognito mode doesn’t necessarily keep your service provider out of the loop.  

A VPN is essential because it obscures your IP address.  This IP address, which identifies your computer on the internet, cannot be located in this mode.  Without an identifiable address, ISPs can’t find your data or locate your laptop online. 

Using Public Wi-Fi

If you’re concerned about a data breach, you’re probably skeptical about public Wi-Fi.  While using Wi-Fi is generally safe, utilizing a shared network at a café can lead to vulnerability.

Protection is one significant benefit of a VPN while using the public internet.  It allows for secured internet access without compromising browser history and personal data.  A VPN is a definite must-have for workdays spent in diners and coffee shops.  

Access To International Content

It’s relatively common to be scrolling through Netflix and suddenly realize your favorite show is no longer available.  Though it’s frustrating, these shows are often accessible in other parts of the world.  

How does a VPN aid in international viewing?  The VPN’s primary capability is disguising your location.  An undisclosed geotag allows you to browse from anywhere in the world while keeping your info safe.  Since you’re surfing the web undetected, the streaming possibilities are utterly endless.  

Downloading a VPN is legal in the U.S., so try incorporating one to see what TV and movie options are available.  

Data & Government 

Even in the U.S., lines are often fuzzy between public vs. private data.  Data posted on Instagram or Facebook can quickly get scooped up by profiteers, consensually or not.  Unfortunately, Mark Zuckerberg isn’t the only influential figure who deceptively sells our information.  

Lawsuits regarding brands selling information to government agencies are happening all around us.  VPNs are an added defense for the content you put online privately.  No one wants to feel like online shopping could lead to an involvement with the NSA.  A VPN is an excellent download for those concerned about government surveillance in this day and age.  

No Bandwidth Throttling   

Bandwidth throttling is just a fancy way of saying your internet is slowing down.  Your ISP can decrease your internet speed based on which sites you’re using.  This is just another instance of your service provider getting in the way of your personal computer use.  

Suppose you’re experiencing a lag on specific sites but aren’t sure why, try using a VPN.  When your data is encrypted, you can safely surf the web unmonitored. A VPN assures all sites you access are free of surveillance and its additional streaming problems.  

A demand for privacy leads many internet users to download a VPN.  It’s a simple fix to a plethora of problems and ensures a safer surfing experience.  Whether your intentions are recreational or professional, a VPN is a powerful tool to improve your computer experience.  Access to more TV shows with the relief of extra security is too good of a deal to dismiss.    

Apple M1 Chip Devices: Game Changer Worth Upgrading For or Just Hype?

Announced back in November, Apple introduced a big device that comes in a tiny package.  This technology is called the M1 chip: the most powerful chip Apple has ever produced.  It’s specifically designed to fit into the smallest Apple products without sacrificing space or memory.  With this chip, Mac implements a game-changing technology that’ll change your computer experience.    

Better graphics and longer battery life are just a few ways Apple is revolutionizing technology.  But is all of this commotion worth the hype?  Let’s take a look at Apple’s newest products and discover the potential benefits of this upgrade.  

What is the M1?

There is more to this tiny chip than meets the eye.  First off, it marks a transition away from the Intel chips Apple products have used for almost 20 years.  It is the first Apple-designed chip to specifically work for Mac products.

Known as a System on a Chip, or an SoC, the M1 combines different technologies into one piece of equipment.  Components like RAM (the computer’s memory), image signal processors, and encoding/decoding engines all exist now on a single, minuscule chip.  

The combination of these technologies increases the speed and efficiency of the computer’s operation.  Instead of accessing data from different memory pools, there is now only one pool to look through.  By limiting the copying of data between systems, the smoother your computer will run.   

What’s Special About M1? 

Since 2006, Apple has had the same core designs for all of its products.  Now, some of your favorite products from Mac hold this powerhouse of a chip.  It includes an 8-core CPU with four high-efficiency cores.  This sounds like a lot of advanced technical jargon, so let me break it down for you.  What this means is that programs requiring a lot of power can operate quickly.   And for activities that need less power, like surfing the web, fewer cores are activated for better battery life preservation.  

These intelligent cores understand when you’re doing demanding tasks that need more power.  Engaging all cores at once, or limiting their power, is what sets this operating system apart.  

Big Sur Mac 

Most of us operating on Apple products use the most recent software, Big Sur.  The M1 Chip works in tandem with this upgrade for faster operation.

Speediness is something the M1 prioritizes.  Waking up your computer from its routine slumber might feel fast enough, but M1 eliminates all of the lag time.  A product with this new chip has an even better time scrolling the internet.  Safari, a web browser known for its quickness, is said to operate 2x faster.  

There are even more possibilities with the App Store than with the previous software.  Apps specifically made for the iPhone and iPad now work seamlessly on computers with M1.  The power of M1’s amplified graphics also enhances apps specific to design and animation.  Apps like Metal or Photoshop look visually advanced compared to the past operating systems.  

M1 Security Features 

Security is a must in this day and age.  With breaches left and right, computer users want to know that their information is safe.  

The M1 has a unique safety feature that is unlike other software.  A T-2 chip is the usual culprit for safety measures and is added to the CPU.  This information is already inside the M1, allowing for hasty reactions to malware and breaches.  

M1 has a built-in tool called Secure Enclave that manages Touch ID amongst other security measures.  This new feature is separated from the computer’s main processor, allowing for an additional protection layer.  

Security Enclave also has a separate processor for the security system.  This might not seem like much, but it’s a key factor in preventing informational compromises.  Since the processor doesn’t share its data with other programs, it’s way safer from attacks.  

Getting excited about a chip seems silly, but the M1 isn’t something to write off.  Its power is unprecedented, with better battery life and less lag time.  As the first fundamental change in Apple hardware since the early 2000s, M1 is a particular upgrade worthy of its hype.    

6 Must-Have Productivity/Utility Apps For Macs

We all want to be more productive in our day-to-day lives.  Whether it’s organizing time for our hobbies or making our work schedule manageable, time efficiency is imperative.  Fortunately, we’re not alone in our organizational journey.  When it comes to products and apps for Mac, there are a few helpful downloads to maximize productivity.  Here are the must-have apps for Macs that’ll help revamp your efficiency.  

Alfred 

An app with unbelievable intelligence, Alfred compiles information from your searches to understand your behavior.  

Alfred has a search function that uses keywords for ultimate proficiency.  The app learns how you use your computer and sorts your searches based on popularity.  You can also input hotkeys and keywords to make your searches even quicker.

Alfred includes an extensive search history feature.  You’ll be able to find past websites without the hassle of remembering the URLs.  Saving websites is also quick and easy; you can create abbreviations or nicknames for websites to find them faster.  

Sometimes the most challenging part about being efficient is remembering where all of your files are.  Alfred aids in organizing and simplifying your computer’s data, letting you focus on what’s important.  Learn more about Alfred here: https://www.alfredapp.com

Magnet 

Working on a computer is fantastic until all those pesky tabs pile up. Magnet is a simple-fix app for this cumbersome problem.

If you’re like me, you have endless windows and tabs open on your screen. Without the willingness to delete old windows, websites build up unbearably. With Magnet, you are only allowed four windows on the screen at a time.  The windows can be arranged in a few different ways and lock into the corners of the desktop.  This helps focus your attention while keeping your screen free of unnecessary clutter.  

If only having four websites open is an issue, Magnet includes six different windows.  Magnet allows you to use a window for work-related websites while another can be recreational.  

Creating shortcuts is also a key part of Magnet, helping users flip through their displays swiftly.  Keeping four windows per display makes for less searching and a less cluttered computer.  

Check out more about magnet here: https://magnet.crowdcafe.com

HazeOver 

A great accompaniment to Magnet is HazeOver: a simple but effective tool for window mismanagement. 

HazeOver is the premier website for window dimming.  It highlights the window you want to focus on and shrowds your other windows in a darker shadow.  Sometimes it’s the over-stimulation of various programs that makes working harder.  With HazeOver’s differing brightness, you’ll have an easier time focusing on one project at a time.  

Look at more possibilities HazeOver can do here:   https://hazeover.com/ 

OneNote 

Though one of the oldest apps on the list, OneNote is consistently the most clever and accessible app for notetaking.  

Emulating a paper notebook, this app is great for organizing ideas and thoughts by subject.  Tabs are located on the left side of the application for labeling and arranging each section.  

Even the note itself tries to mimic a physical piece of paper.  You can click anywhere on the page to start writing for a more freeform writing experience.  Drawing, doodling, and more are obtainable with this clever feature.  

OneNote is the closest you can get to a real-life notebook.  With many organizational tools included in the interface, it’s worth a download.  Find out more about the app here: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/microsoft-onenote/id410395246 

Obsidian 

This app’s purpose is to restructure your understanding of notetaking. Though not the most intuitive, Obsidian is an organizational powerhouse because of a few key ingredients. 

It’s aesthetically similar to Mac’s Notes app, but with a sleeker, black outline to the page.  A big difference is that you can hyperlink past notes to words and phrases of your current note.  Using Obsidian allows connecting more information for a continuous workflow. You can also set keyboard shortcuts to access files with a simple key push quickly.  

Though a free app, many quality features of Obsidian cost an additional price. You can check out more about this revolutionary app here: https://obsidian.md

1Password 

Remembering all your passwords is no easy feat.  This app is stellar when it comes to saving and creating strong passwords.  

The best feature is its single-click function.  Your passwords can autofill with one click for each website and app, requiring no memory overexertion.  There’s even an option to produce random, strong logins.  The built-in password generator quickly comes up with original passwords for you.  Now there’s no excuse to use the same password over and over again.  

1Password is trusted by businesses around the globe to secure their valuable information.  It’s great for families, too, by making it easy to share logins, credit card info, and more.  Keep your valuables all in one place with this accessible app.  

Find out more about all its innovative functions: https://1password.com

Everyone needs a little help reaching their productivity potential.  There are so many apps available now to focus our attention on; it’s hard to know which ones to choose.  These six productivity and utility apps are some of the best on the market, each serving its function exceptionally.  Download one of these programs and see your productivity inevitably increase.