Antivirus software’s first job is to detect viruses and other types of malware before they do their damage. There are three ways to identify malware, and a number of variations on these basic strategies. Here's a plain-English description of how antivirus software gets the job done...

How reliable is the science behind those DNA test kits? Why is the FBI warning holiday shoppers about security risks of smart TV sets? And how can you be sure that 'cutting the cord' and switching to internet-only streaming services will save you money? Get answers in today's Geekly Update -- it's jam-packed with the latest tech news. This issue is guaranteed to make you 146% smarter -- you'll see why. Read, think, and, comment!

Cloud computing is at once a buzzword, and a simple, versatile concept. Just turn over your data and software needs to the experts up there in “the cloud” of the Internet. Let them worry about storing your data, keeping it secure, organizing it, and maintaining software that lets you manage it. Check out these different types of cloud services that offer convenience, productivity, security and even entertainment...

You've probably seen those ads, offering popular electronic gadgets for insanely low prices. You know, the lady who brags about getting a 60-inch HDTV for thirty bucks? These so-called 'penny auction' websites offer products for pennies on the dollar. Are they a big scam, or a legitimate way to save money? Let's take a look at how penny auctions work...

In 2019, an estimated 1.92 billion people will purchase something online. Online sales will total $3.5 trillion dollars worldwide, up more than 21% from the previous year. As online sales have soared, a number of tools have emerged to help consumers find the best deals. Shopping online for Christmas, Hanukkah (or any time of year) is easy and convenient, but when you use the right tools, you can also save a lot of cash. Here are some money-saving tips for the smart online shopper...

Finding the cheapest airfare for your business or pleasure trip takes a bit of cunning. It also helps to use specialized online search tools. But sometimes getting the lowest airfare pricing has more to do with timing than tools. Here's what you need to know (TODAY) before booking your next flight, in order to get the lowest fares possible. I also have some nifty online tools for flyers. Read on...

A reader asks: 'I have been thinking about upgrading the CPU in my desktop, because it's a slow, cheap computer I bought three years ago. But the jargon is getting me down! Can you demystify all this talk of sockets, cores, clock speed, cache, etc?' Read on to learn more about the 'engine' under your computer's hood, and what upgrades make sense for your computer...

Over the past few decades, password rules have become more complicated and burdensome upon users. Users have coped with arbitrary, complex password rules by creating the most easily remembered passwords that comply with the rules, changing them when required in minor, predictable ways, and reusing compliant passwords on multiple online accounts. The results include lots of frustration and LESS security. Here's how to do it right...

How much of your 'private information' could a white-hat hacker dig up using legal tricks and publicly available databases? Can those popular DNA testing kits reliably predict your chances of getting cancer, diabetes, or Alzheimers? And what should you do if your Roku TV starts asking for your credit card and other personal information? Get answers in today's Geekly Update -- it's jam-packed with the latest tech news. This issue is guaranteed to make you 146% smarter -- you'll see why. Read, think, and, comment!

Are you tired of shelling out big bucks to replace yet another empty ink cartridge? Nobody is happy about the high cost of home and small office printing. Paper prices are rising, and the cost of brand-name printer ink cartridges has always been outrageous. Here are some tips for slimming down your printing budget...

The days of unlimited Internet use are drawing to a close for many people. As metered bandwidth billing, data caps, and exorbitant overage fees become more common, it behooves everyone who has such an Internet service plan to continually keep track of how many megabytes they’re using. Here's how to keep tabs on your data usage...

A reader says: 'The fan inside my computer has started making an awful noise, and I'm afraid it's ready to bite the dust. Does that mean I need to replace the power supply?' The answer is MAYBE! Read on to find out if your power supply should be replaced...

PrivaZer is a computer clean-up utility on steroids. It gets rid of junk files and wipes away traces of activity that could compromise your privacy. Maybe you think that sounds like some other program you've been using, but trust me, PrivaZer does MUCH more. Read on to learn how it works, and why you should try it...

Can you still upgrade your Windows 7 computer to Windows 10 for free? Is your antivirus software making it EASIER for hackers to gain access to your computer? And will quantum computers ruin everything? Get answers in today's Geekly Update -- it's jam-packed with the latest tech news. This issue is guaranteed to make you 146% smarter -- you'll see why. Read, think, and, comment!

A brand-new computer is something to get excited about. It’s tempting to plug it in, start it up, and just begin exploring. But a new computer requires some initial fine-tuning in order to optimize performance and avoid problems later on. Here are five things you should do to a new desktop or laptop PC as soon as it comes out of the box...