The Battle between Windows, Chromebook and Mac

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Hi friends! We are friends by now, right? If you haven't before, I would be grateful if you follow our page on Twitter. Please share with others. 

Chances are that you’re already quite familiar with all the options that the technological world provides us when it comes to computers and their operating system.

In stores, you have a choice between 3 operating systems: OS X by Apple, Chrome OS by search engine giant Google, and Windows from former software monopoly Microsoft. Each OS has their own pros and cons, and when choosing the right fit for you, there are a few things to consider for each one of them. 

Windows

Everyone has probably used a Windows computer at least once in their life. Windows is still the most popular operating system out there, used by companies, governments, and individuals worldwide. Because of its huge user base, Windows has an advantage over the other OS’s, as almost all software on the internet is made for Windows. Another pro of Windows is its usability. Just about everyone is able to use a Windows computer. A final pro is that you have a wide variety of choices when it comes to the computer that runs the OS. 

But on the con side, Windows needs a lot of extras when it comes to security. Its big user base makes it a target for hackers, and it’s incredibly easy to get a virus when surfing the web. Physically, Windows computers are quite heavy when you compare them to Chromebooks and MacBooks. Finally, most of the best working Windows computers are above the $400 mark. This doesn’t exactly make it the most affordable computer out there.

Chromebooks

When comparing Chromebooks and Chrome OS with that of the big guys (Windows and Apple), Google’s computer is still in diapers. Nevertheless, it is growing rapidly in popularity. Chrome OS is based entirely around Google’s web server, Chrome, and this is both a gift and a curse. It’s a gift in that everything goes directly into the cloud, making it impossible for you to lose files even when something happens to the computer itself. Another reason it’s a gift is its usability. Even your grandmother could handle a Chromebook! It’s nowhere near as frustrating as using a Windows computer can be for the older generation. A Chromebook is also highly affordable, with most computers sold at under $400. The screen quality is way better than that of a MacBook. 

However, as I mentioned before, the way the Chrome OS runs is also a curse. You are unable to download any software or hardware onto your Chromebook, and while you are able to make a lot of apps available offline, it definitely can be a pain in the ass. Another definite con of the Chromebook is that you can’t fully download Skype. If you want to use Skype, you have to make do with the IM+ messenger, which comes without the option for video calls. For those of you who can’t live without video calls, there is the option of Hangouts, Google’s very own version of Skype. Google Hangouts comes with a few extras, like free group calls and the ability to draw on the person you’re calling with. 

MacBooks

When Apple decided to make the MacBook Air, they were aiming for something portable and high performance, with a great design and usability. An Apple MacBook is often the first choice for designers, graphic artists, and anyone else who has made it their job to bring you high quality media. All of your files, pictures, etc. get stored into iCloud, which makes it incredibly easy to transfer a file from one device to another. MacBooks are lightweight, which makes them great for travel or just moving about at home. 

The biggest con of MacBooks is their price. Apple has always been about the exclusive feel that you get from their products, and the MacBook Air is the perfect example of this. Prices range from $800 to $3000. So, is it worth the price? Yes, it can be. Contrary to popular belief, Mac OS X is not immune to viruses. The threat just isn’t as big, because like stated before, most hackers focus on Windows computers. Just as with Apple’s other products (like the iPhone and the iPod), it is nearly impossible to make any changes to the MacBook itself, which can be a little impractical when it comes to having to change the battery or upgrading the internal storage space. 

So which one is the best?

That is up to you to decide. Don’t mind a computer that’s completely based around internet and Google? Then the Chromebook will be a great choice for you. Are you a gamer, or do you like to mess around a bit? Then the obvious choice for you is a Windows laptop. A designer or artist? The MacBook is your perfect match.

*by andreascy*

How to Change Your IPhone Wallpaper

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

IPhone is a palmtop smartphone which has combined the camera phone, personal digital assistant, and media player and wireless communication equipment. It was published by Steve Jobs in Mac world on January 9th in 2007 and listed on the stock market on June 29th in 2007.

IPhone is a 4 frequency channels GSM mobile phone. It supports EDGE and 802.11 b/g wireless Internet access, and also supports email, mobile phone, SMS, Internet and other wireless communication services. At 6 p.m. of June 29, 2007, the first generation of iPhone was published in USA. On July 11, 2008, iPhone 3G was published by Apple Inc. At 1 a.m. of June 8, 2010, Jobs introduced iPhone 4. Then on October 5, 2011, iPhone 4S was released. And In the morning of September 12th, 2012, iPhone 5 was published.

ITunes is an application program of digital media player. It's a free application program available for Mac and PC users. On it, you can manage and play your digital music and videos. It was launched by Apple Inc. on January 10th, 2001 at the Macworld Expo in San Francisco. It can automatically download your purchased software applications on all your devices and computers. It is also your virtual store which can meet all your entertainment needs at anytime and anywhere.

ITunes can manage the content of digital media player on the popular Apple computer, iPod, iPhone and so on through an interface. Additionally, iTunes can be connected to the iTunes Store to download the purchased digital music, music videos, TV shows, iPod games, all kinds of Podcasts and films.

You can do many things with iPhone and iTunes. Now some fresh iPhone users still don’t know how to change iPhone wallpapers with iTunes. So today I will explain how to do it with iTunes. The steps are very easy.

1. Download a wallpaper. Then put it in a new folder on the desktop.

2. Connect your iPhone to computer. Then run the iTunes. Select your device on the left menu bar. Then click on the Photo option which is on the top of the right interface.

3. Check the Sync Photo and Selected folder options. Then click Select folder on the drop-down menu and select the new folder in which you put the wallpaper in the pops up dialog window.

4. Click Apply to start Sync.

5. When the above steps finished, this wallpaper is on your iPhone. Then please go to the home screen and click on Setting, choose Brightness & Wallpaper.

6. In the Brightness & Wallpaper, tap on Wallpaper.

7. Then you will see all the photos in your iPhone. Select the photo you download just now and click Set.

8. Then you will be remained to Set Lock Screen, Set Home Screen or Set Both. You can choose anyone of them.

9. Now your iPhone wallpaper is changed.

Please be careful when you synchronize photos with iTunes as photos always get lost easily under such operations.

READ ALSO: 8 Reasons to Buy the iPhone 5c

Liked this post? Don't miss a single word! Complete the form and we will send you articles just like this every day, week or month.

*by andreascy*

Tips For Making Your Garden An Internet Hot Spot

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Many people have experienced the problem of weak wifi signal in a particular room or a different floor of their home. However, what do you do when you need that signal out in your garden. 

Whether you keep an office outside the house, or if you just want to check your email outside, there’s a multitude of ways to make it happen. We’ve put together a list of the top suggestions for turning your garden into a hot spot.

PC (or Mac) Maintenance

The problem with your internet speed out in the garden may lie within your laptop itself and not the signal strength. You can carry out general maintenance such as scans for malware and viruses. Defrag-ing your laptop will only further help its speed. A good rule of thumb as for how much space should be left free on your drive is usually double your RAM or 10 percent (whichever comes first in your case). For example, if I have a laptop with an 8 GB RAM, I would want to leave 16 GB free on my hard drive. Or if I have a 750 GB hard drive, I may want to leave 75 GB free. Not only is everyday maintenance help your laptop performance, it may aid in your internet speed so you don’t have to go out and buy a product to improve connection.

Outdoor Repeater

A repeater is an electronic device that simply replicates a signal coming from the original router in your home. These can be used if the wifi signal is particularly weak in one side or level of the house. If you have an old router lying around, then there isn’t even a need to buy a repeater as an extra router can perform the same function.

However, for wireless to reach your garden, an old router might not be ideal since they’re suited for indoors. Outdoor repeaters are more suited to the elements, be it rain or shine, and tend to offer a greater range. They can be expensive, but they come with perks such as water proofing, built-in firewalls (depending on the brand), and the ability to be mounted outdoors. You can’t say the same for your indoor router.

Outdoor Access Points

If trees aren’t in the way, an OAP can offer a range of up to 2000 ft when it comes to getting a wireless signal. Even better, they can be placed outdoors (if you can manage an Ethernet cable connection). The reason these have gained popularity is due to price increases by ISPs. As a result, neighbors sometimes use OAPs to share a connection in order to save money. Similar to repeaters, OAPs come waterproof, are tolerant of wider temperature ranges, and are made for sometimes rugged environments. OAPs can even act as repeaters, bridges, and offer other operations depending on the brand you select.

Stick it Out

If all else fails, just stick it out. These laptop sticks can allow you the luxury of internet connection simply by plugging into your USB port. This can be used almost anywhere where your wireless provider is located. The downside is you may be limited to a 3G or 4G connection speed, and the sticks can be lost. However, the stick can be used on multiple devices and offers you a mobile hotspot almost anywhere.

Like what you're reading? Follow us on Twitter for more!

*by andreascy*

The U.S. Apple Store Went Down - Here we go

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description : 

The U.S. Apple Store is currently down which could signal that new Apple products are about to be launched. Unlike previous times it's gone down though, there is no note announcing that the store is down - just that the browser can't reach the store. 

The sign on the Store says : “We’re busy updating the Apple Store for you and will be back soon.”

It’s possible that Apple is simply fixing some technical glitches.

Whatever the reason is, it'll be a few short hours until we know more details. Once it gets back up, we will let you know about the changes.

UPDATE : Apple Store is online again.

*by andreascy*

Finesse Icon Pack: 125 Excellent Icons Now Available for Purchase!

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description : 

Icons are everywhere on the web. In most modern designs, they are used to not only complete our design but also to attract the user’s eye. Designers use icons to create breath-taking designs and decorate their desktop as well. 

Perhaps that is why we love those small indispensable graphical images so much, it’s an appreciation of the hard work, creativity, and talent of the designer.

Also, every application maker wants to make their application looks good. They not only want to improve their site's design but they also look after their customer's choices and technical factors. So, they use icons to increase the appearance of their application and give a better Service to their Customers. And this is very important! 

People who do this type of work professionally, they don't have such time to create each icon personally. So they prefer to buy authentic icons from a professional and at a reasonable price. Today, we present to you an example of this.

"Finesse Icon Pack"

Made by our talented friends Gaurav & Aditya Bhatt, a designing team that brings to you Beautiful Icons with Great Colors and a Unique Detailed Style. Icons for your Apps, Desktop, Docks, Concepts, Rainmeter, XWidget, for literally anything! 

Learn more from the Creator's Comments below:

- Over 120 XHDPI icons with a resolution of 100x100 in .PNG format.

- These icons can be used on any platform, mainly Android.

- Retailed at $1 (USD) only.

- You will be provided with :

• Free Updates

• Free Icon Requests

If you have any suggestions, queries or problems regarding this icon pack, please feel free to contact the creators.

Comment below if you would buy this pack or if you have any requests for icons. Don't forget to spread the word about it. 👍

*by andreascy*

Android Devices Under Attack from Malicious Malware

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description : 

Malware attacks are growing steadily despite all the protection against this disease. Hacking has become an organized cyber crime with people specialized in this “art”, coming together to wreck havoc against the computer and cell phone software. 

U.S law enforcing authorities have cracked down upon number of groups - local and international - involved in cybercrime.

Rogue gang on the loose

One of the famous is a gang of Chinese cybercriminals, Luckycat - targeting employees at high positions in prestigious professions, such as executives in the aerospace, energy, and engineering industries. Since the news came out in June 2011, Lucycat has evolved into a sophisticated and malicious cybercrime gang. Their first target was Windows in 2011, while in early 2012 the gang targeted a Javascript with SabPub, which was injected through a flaw in its mechanism, to spy on Mac OS systems.

Now, Android devices are on target of Luckycat, reported by Trend Micro, a security company with evidences.

Android phones targeted

Trend Micro collected the evidences after a thorough investigation of Luckycat’s command and control center, which led to the discovery of two incomplete and undelivered Android apps - along with deliveries of SabPub through exploitation of Javascript. The two Android apps were called “testService” - were not easy to detect - the only thing that give away the presence of these apps inside the software was the one of the icons was visible. This clearly showed that the hackers were trying to get the apps in a stealth mode, so that they go undetected.

Imitating a Trojan

The two Android apps imitated behaviors of a Remote Access Trojan (RAT) - exhibiting ability to locate sensitive data and upload them to a remote server. However the "remote shell" command was incomplete, meaning the attackers couldn't take real-time control of the devices, which saved the devices for a while.

Explaining the dangers of being able to remotely control devices in real time, Tom Kellermann, director of cyber security at Trend Micro, said that if the attacker finds out from your phone's calendar that you have a meeting in ten minutes, he/she could just activate the mic.

Lookout Mobile confirmed that it detected the same malware samples in a device, all clearly in debug mode since the output was all debug messages.

Transfer of Malware to the target

There are several options - is followed to the core - can help attacker easily transfer malware into the target’s Android phone, working as Android spyware. Trend Micro observed malwares can be transferred through SMS or email containing a download URL disguised as something legit. Sabpub, for instance, was delivered through poorly-spelt emails appealing to Tibetan sympathizers.

Should You Worry?

There are not high chances of you being targeted, as Luckycat targets huge enterprises and companies; but you should be aware that the same malware could be used to target your Android phone. Few simple, but effective counter measures you can take are :

1. Download apps from trusted sources like Google Play and Amazon Android app Stores.

2. Don't click on strange links or attachments in the emails.

RELATED: Tightening Android Security Against Data Stealing Applications

Be Awesome! Feel free to Like, Share & Comment! ;)

*by andreascy*

Mac OS Gets Targeted Again With Clever New Trojan

Posted by Unknown

Description :

Mac OS X attacked by new Clever Trojan named OSX/Crisis. A new Mac OS threat is discovered which is capable of infecting OS X 10.6 “Snow Leopard” and OS X 10.7 “Lion” systems without requiring a password, or any user interaction. 

Andrew, director of security operations for nCircle, declared, “Mac malware is no joke. Despite Apple’s marketing hype about security, it should be obvious to everyone that their devices are susceptible to malware. Earlier this year the Flashback Trojan infected hundreds of thousands of Macs. The new OSX/Crisis malware is another Apple wake up call.”

All naive Mac users should wake up as their days of security by obscurity are over. Apple's so-called self proclaimed "world's most advance operating system" is getting attacked more often recently. It may be a good marketing strategy but Apple needs to step up and offer users practical, effective security support.

READ NEXT: Are You Underestimating the Importance of Data Security?

Come and Subscribe to our Newsletter!

*by andreascy*

Microsoft Office Webinars E-Book

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description : 

We've collected on this post some popular Office 15-minute Webinars that were featured on our Blog. We hope you'll find them useful and interesting as we did.



Share it with your friends and let us know what you think. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter, and get all the latest updates and other exclusives directly to your email.

Take care! 😊

*by andreascy*

Office Webinar : Office for Mac

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Office for Mac 2011 and PCs are working better together. 

In this week's webinar we'll show you Office for Mac 2011 including some features that make that possible. Learn more about these subjects at : http://aka.ms/mac123

This is a recording of an Office 15-Minute Webinar. Doug Thomas hosts these free how-to tidbits from the Office.com help writers. See how to watch these webinars live and participate in a Q&A session: http://aka.ms/offweb

Check also other Office Webinars on :

http://officialandreascy.blogspot.com/search?q=office+webinars&x=0&y=0

*by andreascy*

Jump Desktop (Remote Desktop) : Enjoy the freedom to work from anywhere

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Jump Desktop is a remote desktop application that lets you control your computer from your iPad, iPhone, Android or iPod Touch,. Compatible with both RDP and VNC, Jump Desktop is secure, reliable and very easy to set up. Features include a streamlined user interface that gives you the best possible remote desktop experience on any of your mobile devices.

Easy setup and reliable :

Jump Desktop is very easy to configure, anyone can do it! Just visit : 

http://www.jumpdesktop.com 

on your PC or Mac, click the "Setup" link and follow step-by-step instructions. You’ll be up and running in no time.

Secure and built on open standards :

Jump Desktop is a true RDP and VNC client. You don’t need to download additional software to connect to your machine if you already have RDP or VNC configured. Just enter your IP address or hostname to connect.

Powerful features :

Unleash the full power of your device when connecting to your computer. With support for multi-tasking, Bluetooth keyboards, VGA-out, copy/paste, auto-correction, AirPrint and audio streaming, Jump will help utilize your device to the max. iPad 2 users : Jump's multi-threaded rendering engine will automatically utilize the extra core on your iPad 2 to accelerate your remote desktop experience. 

IMPORTANT NOTICE : 

Audio streaming and remote printing are NOT supported when connecting to Mac OS X and PCs running Windows "Home" edition.

If you need help, visit http://support.jumpdesktop.com or send an email to the support team :

 support@jumpdesktop.com

Features :

✓ Multi-protocol : supports RDP and VNC

✓ Easy and secure setup : Automatically configure your PC or Mac for remote access using Wi-Fi and 3G without worrying about your router settings. Set up as many computers as you like and manage them all using your Google account (optional)

✓ Universal application : Works on the iPad, iPhone, Android and iPod Touch. Automatically optimizes UI based on the device

✓ Full support for iOS 4.0 multitasking : Switch to other apps without disconnecting

✓ VGA-out support: view your desktop on the big screen. Includes a unique presentation mode on the iPad, letting you turn your mouse cursor into a laser pointer.

✓ Advanced Bluetooth keyboard support : Shortcuts, function keys and arrow keys (see support.jumpdesktop.com for limitations with Bluetooth keyboard functionality)

✓ Built-in SSH tunneling for RDP and VNC connections

✓ Supports large custom screen resolution

✓ Full mouse support: left and right clicks, dragging, scrolling, precision pointer movement.

✓ Multiple gesture support - includes the ability to draw or write using your finger

✓ Copy/paste support : Transfer text to or from your computer using the pasteboard

RDP features :

✓ Tested on : Windows 2000, XP, Vista, Windows 7, Server 2003, Server 2008, Server 2008 R2, SBS Server

✓ Secure : 128-bit RDP, TLS/SSL, FIPS and NLA authentication supported

Supports 8, 16 and 24-bit colors and all RDP performance options

✓ Printing support : Print directly to a Wi-Fi printer using RDP's printer redirection feature (exclusive feature on the App Store!) Note : Requires AirPrint-compatible printer

✓ Audio streaming

✓ Console sessions

✓ International keyboard layouts

✓ Multiple monitor support on Windows 7 and above

VNC features:

✓ Tested with Mac OS X, TightVNC, RealVNC, UltraVNC, Linux (Ubuntu Remote Desktop)

✓ Secure : Supports SSH tunneling as well as SSL encryption (SSL only available when using automatic setup)

✓ 8 and 16-bit color

✓ Multiple monitor support

✓ Supported encodings : copyrect, zrle, tight, (zlib)hextile, zlib, rre, raw, desktop-resize

What's new

*by andreascy*

Mediafire Express Beta Software Application (and REST API)

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description:

Today the MediaFire team announced the Beta release of MediaFire’s first software application – MediaFire Express (MFE). This Windows, Mac, and Linux compatible application makes it easier than ever to upload files from your computer to your MediaFire account.

You can download MediaFire Express from their new “Tools” section here.

MediaFire Express is currently in Beta testing and the UI is still a rough proof of concept, so expect a couple bugs if you decided to give it a try. This product helps MediaFire to test some of the new tools they are developing and lays the groundwork for future products that will be released later this year. 

MediaFire Express for Mac

MediaFire Express for Windows

MediaFire Express (Beta) Features: 

- MediaFire Express can upload files from our computer to your MediaFire account without requiring you to open your browser. 

- New users can create a MediaFire account during installation. 

- MediaFire Express users can switch between MediaFire accounts. 

- Users can select an upload destination folder from within their “My Files” folder hierarchy. 

- Users can upload a file via a right click menu on File Explorer’s (on Windows) or Finder (on the Mac). 

- Users can upload a file by dragging and dropping it on the MediaFire Express’ Drop Zone. 

- MediaFire Express avoids contributing to desktop clutter by hiding its windows when it is idle. 

- Progress bars make it easy for users to monitor file upload progress. 

- Users can invoke the MediaFire Expresses Screenshot tool from (1) the keyboard, (2) a button located on the MediaFire Express’ Drop-Zone, or via a systray menu. 

- Quickly open your “My Files” page with a click of a button. 

- MediaFire Express dynamically throttles back upload rates as necessary so as to avoid reducing Quality of Service on slow DSL links. 

- MediaFire Express’ Screenshot Tool captures images of (1) the entire desktop, (2) an application’s window, or (3) a user defined area and then (1) uploads the screenshot to your MediaFire account for sharing, (2) saves the screenshot to disk or (3) sends the image to the printer for a hardcopy. 

MediaFire REST API: 

As a side note, today they announced also the first REST API for MediaFire. Developers interested in building tools that interface with MediaFire’s cloud storage system can find out more here.

*by andreascy*