The Right Choice Between Laptops and Desktop Computers

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

If you are wondering whats's the best Computer device today? My answer will be, "that depends". Before you'll decide what kind of computer you want, you first need to think if you want the portability of a Laptop or dexterity of a Stationary Computer. Whatever the decision is it depends on your needs and obviously on your budget. I have summarized some of the reasons you may want to invest in a Laptop versus a Desktop PC below.

In the modern era, technology is getting smaller. And smaller generally means better. On the past, a Desktop PC was for doing anything serious, while a Laptop (also referred to as Notebook) was a handy extra or an indulgence for businessmen who travel a lot.

But how things have changed. Desktop is faded away, most of the people are buying Laptops but every device has it's pros and cons and a different usability. Since the advent of Wi-Fi technology, people prefer Laptops. Before getting my first Laptop i asked myself. What bests suits to me? To be honest i had no previous experience and i wasn't so sure if finally a Laptop would do. I wanted to be confident though that i pick the best computer for my needs. But let me admit that I love my Laptop. :)

To decide between a Desktop or Laptop PC can be difficult. Especially if you don't know or understand their real differences. There are so many choices than ever before, and each comes with plenty of competitive features and on different prices. 

First of all ask yourself some questions. Which one would be better in terms of cost, usage and performance? Why do you need it? Surfing the internet? E-mails, networking, typing up documents and spreadsheets? What are you going to use it for? Are you always on the go? Are you a heavy user who wants the best setups? Are you a heavy gamer or a youtuber? How much can you spend?

A Laptop it's small. That makes it lightweight and easy to carry. It's powerful, tough, wireless and central. Some years ago, Laptops were weaker than Desktops and not able to perform as expected. They were missing lot of features that a Desktop had but with the benefit of being portable. For someone who travels a lot and works or plays on a computer outside the house, the campus or the city, these are strong arguments in favor of a Laptop. Nowadays both are nearly equals but with an important difference. Laptops are still dependent on their battery life. But there is again something about the Laptops that still makes you want to buy them.

Laptops are outselling Desktops due to their sleek design, portability and improved performance. Believe it or not, Laptops are the new Desktops. A Laptop allows you to sit on your sofa, surfing the web, keeping all your files, can also be used as a communication tool with family and friends, it doesn't have any wires or make you worry about space and this has become part and parcel of our modern life. There is no need to dedicate a portion of your home to a giant desktop PC on a desk.

But it is also true that the level of customization of Desktop's is high. A Desktop PC is one that will reside on a desk in your room. It will come with different parts, for example a tower, which contains the heart of the PC including some of the peripherals. It comes with a monitor, keyboard and mouse. All Desktop Computers have some expansion slots for PCI and memory cards, optical and even hard disks. They are easily upgradeable and parts can be easily replaced or upgraded.

Desktops perform better in general. Most times Laptops are running to catch up with Desktop technologies as they have to shrink everything down in size before being able to use them. Let's say hard drives. Laptop hard drives are much slower than Desktop hard drives. Laptops are also much more expensive than Desktops and have limited options for any upgrades in the future.

Lots of new innovations in Computer's technological field are also more readily available for Desktop PCs. For example, multi-core processors, were available for Desktop Computers way before they figured out how to make them small enough for Laptops. This means that if you're looking for a Computer system that's state-of-the-art, then Desktop Computers are in priority. It's also a fact that Laptops will never be as good as Desktops in terms of Computer power. As far as cost is concerned Laptops are not far away from desktops.

Conclusion :

Till date, Laptop is the only answer to Desktop which provides a fair mobility and flexibility. If you think you won't need that flexibility, you can prefer the Desktop, but don't count it out. Both of them are created with different needs so you never know when you'll have to compute on the go. You can completely replace your PC and buy a beautiful Laptop. Laptop has a variety of rich features which can beat a Desktop at any stage of time. You just have to figure out how you are going to use the Computer. Your situation may be different. Just take the best choice and make it work. 

*by andreascy*

Will You be the Next Victim of Laptop Theft?

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Laptop theft is becoming increasingly common, which should concern you if you own one. FBI statistics say that 97 percent of stolen computers will never be recovered. Statistics also report that 1,600 laptops are stolen daily in the United States alone. 

Today, we can safely assume the number to have increased greatly. If you own a laptop, chances are 1 in 10 that your laptop will be stolen.

Data Loss

The hardest thing to swallow about the theft of a laptop is always the loss of the data it contains. Family pictures, music libraries, and, of course, sensitive documents all vanish in the blink of an eye. Most laptop users also have their passwords saved on the laptops, so it's easy enough for the thieves to hack into accounts and gather enough material to commit other crimes, such as identity theft.

If we look at the theft of laptops belonging to large corporations, the fallout of the loss of a laptop can be extremely difficult to contain. Organizations lose several thousand dollars, at the very least, every time a laptop belonging to one of their employees is stolen. In 2004, Software Insurance claimed that over 600,000 laptops had been stolen, which caused a hardware loss amounting to $720 million and information losses estimated at $5.4 billion. Clearly, the loss of the hardware does not hurt as much as the loss of the data on the laptop.

Protecting Yourself against Laptop Theft

The only way to guarantee that your laptop won't be stolen is to keep your eye on it all the time. Of course that's not always possible. Luckily, there are several ways in which you can reduce the chances of your laptop being stolen and protect your data from being compromised.

To protect your laptop from being stolen, you can use either an alarm or chains to keep it attached to something immobile. Since a large number of laptops are stolen by thieves breaking into offices, you can prevent yours from being stolen by keeping it attached to something solid and immovable. Alarms can alert you or a security guard in the event someone tries to steal your laptop by breaking the lock.

Unfortunately, there are no foolproof ways to protect your data, as a determined attacker will eventually get in no matter the levels of encryption or password protections you use. But you can use a combination of biometric scanners, tracking software, data encryption, BIOS passwords, drive locks, and OS passwords to make it as difficult as possible for a thief to steal your data.

Laptop tracking software will help you recover your laptop only if the thief isn't smart and connects to the Internet. Full Disk Encryption is a popular approach to protecting data. It is inexpensive and easy to maintain, but, like other methods, can be cracked.

In the end, it's best to be realistic and prevent the theft of your laptop from ever happening, since it's statistically improbable that you'll be among the 3 percent who have recovered their computers after a theft.

READ ALSO: The Mobile Kill Switch Is In Effect: Here’s What You Need To Know

For more tips on laptop safety, i suggest researching protection software and products. 

*by andreascy*

SAP FICO - What Are Some Of The Advantages

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

There are plenty of reasons why enterprise software is quickly becoming a necessary and popular option. Business organizations have to deal with a lot of complexity in their immediate business environments. However, they have to be smart about this and also keep one eye on the present and the other on the future.

But, managing a business environment fraught with complexities is not an easy task. And this is where enterprise software such as SAP can play a huge role.

What are some of the areas in which SAP can come into play? 

Almost every area of enterprise operations; which essentially means extremely large-scale operations; can benefit from SAP. Broadly speaking, software is implemented in areas such as: 

•  Resource management

•  Materials and supply chain management 

•  Customer relationship management 

•  Mobility networks 

•  Finance and control 

When it comes to finance and control, one of the most popular modules of SAP is SAP FICO which stands for Financials and Controlling. 

What are the benefits of learning or using SAP FICO? 

A business organization can realize plenty of advantages to having streamlined and effective financial and controlling mechanisms in place. These mechanisms can extend to almost every aspect of business operations and can bring about some really wide reaching and in-depth changes and benefits. 

Thus, by learning and implementing SAP FICO, a business organization can encompass different aspects of its financial framework. 

Specific aspects that can be addressed with SAP FICO 

A business organization needs to meet internal policies and external governance requirements. One of the ways in which it can do so is by implementing integrated financial reporting structures. 

This simply means that the software for SAP FICO can be integrated with sales, distribution, materials management and so on. With SAP FICO certification or capabilities, one can address issues and areas such as: 

•  Accounts payable

•  Accounts receivable 

•  Bank accounting

•  General and other ledgers

•  Cost and profit centers

•  Management of different financial assets

There is also quite a lot of emphasis on organizational structure and management of fixed assets. Both of them are extremely important for any enterprise professional. 

Automation of processes 

At enterprise levels, almost every aspect of business is heavily automated. With SAP FICO in place, an enterprise can enjoy automation and simpler management of all its financial operations. This also gives the enterprise an opportunity to comply with various federal regulations and also meet accounting standards all across the globe. It can get pretty cumbersome and perhaps even impossible for manual controls of the same. And this is where training in SAP FICO comes into play. 

Career prospects 

Learning SAP FICO can also help an individual enhance his career prospects with recruiters in industries such as: 

•  Finance 

•  Information technology

•  Hardware manufacturers

•  Knowledge processing industries

•  Banking sectors

It is quite interesting indeed to be equipped with knowledge on various aspects of finance and control because it vastly improves the employability of an individual. Considering the fact that SAP training is constantly getting updated with the latest technology and methods of operating specific aspects of business, it does become relevant for an individual to undergo periodic training and update his knowledge levels as well. 

RECOMMENDED: Top 3 Tech Tools for Managers That Mean Business

What’s one thing you’re hoping to learn as a member of our community? Let me know by leaving a comment below.

*by andreascy*

Office 15-Minute Webinar - How to Work with Powerpoint Slide Masters

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Hello folks! We've featured a ton of Office 15-Minute Webinars on this Blog, and we thought that our audience would enjoy another opportunity, to become better at making great Powerpoint presentations. 

In this webinar, we'll show you how to master the Slide Master - an Office built-in tool that controls the look of your Powerpoint presentation and keeps it consistent throughout. A Slide Master is actually the top slide in a hierarchy of slides that stores information about the theme and slide layouts of a presentation, including the background, color, fonts, effects, placeholder sizes, and positioning. 

Every presentation contains at least one Slide Master. The key benefit to using Slide Masters is that you can make universal style changes to every slide in your presentation, including ones added later to the presentation. When you use a Slide Master, you save time because you don't have to type the same information on more than one slide. The Slide Master especially comes in handy when you have extremely long presentations with lots of slides. 

It's true that you can create Powerpoint presentations without using Slide Masters or even knowing what they are, but they save so much time and effort that we think you'll be glad to know about them. Have a look on the video :

You found our article useful? Then leave us with your responses in the comments section below. 

SEE ALSO: 

Download Free Business PowerPoint Templates and Diagrams at SlideHunter

Download Professional PowerPoint Templates And Diagrams At SlideModel

PowerPoint Templates: The Secret for an Amazing Presentation

As always, feel free to ask any questions. Cheers... 

*by andreascy*

What can MPLS service providers do for your business?

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

When selecting a service provider, especially in the telecom and communications domain, a business organization will certainly look into a few but important aspects.

These aspects will include considerations such as: 

• Longevity and reputation of the service provider, 

• Client base and testimonials, 

• The range of products and offerings, 

• Flexibility in pricing, 

• Responsiveness of the technical and customer support teams and 

• The service provider’s ability to keep pace with the present and future requirements.

All these considerations and more apply to the search for MPLS service providers as well. Searching for the right kind of MPLS service provider can help a business organization in many different ways. So it is well worthwhile to put in some effort and research into available options. 

An MPLS service provider can help transform your business considerably. This is possible because of the intrinsic benefits of the technology itself and of the support of the service provider can render to you. 

More effective protocol 

MPLS stands for multiprotocol label switching and it works essentially by using the short path label system. Conventional networks use long path label systems. Therefore, MPLS can prove to be a far more effective protocol when it comes to data transmission. 

With the help of an MPLS network, a business organization can enjoy some really excellent speeds for data delivery. This can go a long way in enhancing its communications infrastructure. 

Ability to handle more 

An MPLS network allows the usage of a single path for transmitting diverse types and packets of data. Conventional systems, or the non-MPLS systems fritter away a lot of time and resources in rerouting data. 

This increases the time that is taken to transmit the data and also uses up a lot of network resources. With MPLS service providers, a business organization can make network traffic a streamlined system. 

Range of products and offerings 

When comparing MPLS service providers, do draw up a list of the offerings of each of them and then figure out which one offers the widest possible range. Products and services can encompass: 

• MPLS VPN, or MPLS virtual private networking 

• SLA or service level agreement, 

• Quality of Service or QoS guarantees, 

• Security mechanisms which will include firewalls and intrusion detection systems et cetera, 

• Bundled services and 

• Services that are geared towards encompassing new and emerging technologies such as mobile networking and cloud computing. 

Looking at the spectrum of products and services can give you a good idea of how MPLS service providers are striving to ensure that they become a one-stop shop for all telecom needs of business organizations. 

Security and recovery 

MPLS service providers should also be able to help you out with high levels of security and quick recovery. High levels of security should encompass aspects such as isolating your IP address and perhaps even offering you the advantage of a backup IP address. This should help you take care of protecting your website and your business organization’s confidential information. 

Recovery implies the ability to recover from natural and even man-made disasters which can bring down a network. While network vulnerabilities may never be eliminated totally, successful MPLS service providers will minimize the time that it takes to bounce back from downtime. 

*by andreascy*

Cable Internet - What Is It And How Does It Compare To Other Technologies

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Getting access to the Internet can be done in many different ways. And such is the complexity and sophistication of the telecom industry, that Internet access is constantly evolving and becoming even more sophisticated. One technology that has been around for quite some time now is cable Internet access.

Cable Internet is a kind of broadband Internet access just like other options such as DSL, T1 and so on. The difference between cable Internet and all other types of Internet access solutions, is the fact that cable Internet uses cable television in order to connect an individual to the Internet. Cable Internet is also pretty popular with home owners or individuals who can use their existing cable TV network to connect to the Internet.

How does cable Internet work?

One of the easiest ways in which you can get hold of information on how cable Internet works and the speeds that it can deliver, is by accessing the Internet itself. Look for information from various service providers who deal with cable Internet access solutions. Depending on the service provider that you sign up with, you can get features such as:

•  Speeds of up to 15 megabits per second, perhaps even more in some cases,

•  Significantly faster speed of Internet access when compared to dial-up connections

•  Security and protection from various kinds of viruses and malware

•  Technical and customer support services whenever you require it.

Benefits of cable Internet access

Cable Internet is probably one of the most cost-effective Internet access solutions that an individual or a home owner can go in for. A T1 line, for instance can cost anywhere around $350 every month. And a cable Internet access can cost around $30 per month. These costs will definitely differ depending on where you are located and the service provider that you go with. But it does give you a fair idea of the difference in costs. 

How does cable Internet access compare against DSL

DSL stands for digital subscriber line. This is also pretty popular when it comes to home owners and is one of the ways in which they can enjoy reliable access to the Internet. A DSL connection relies on something known as a modem to connect a computer to the Internet. It also goes through the telephone landline. 

One of the biggest advantages of DSL is that it is faster than a dial-up connection and you can use the phone and Internet at the same time. Cable Internet access is significantly less costly than DSL. Cable Internet access is also faster than a DSL connection. Cable Internet access also does not need the presence of a telephone line, unlike a DSL connection. 

There are plenty of service providers that can give you cable Internet access. So all you really need to do is to choose the one that makes most sense, financially speaking. Look for information on aspects such as:

•  Consistency of cable Internet access,

•  Upload and download speeds,

•  Complete information on billing,

•  Guaranty of a “constantly on” connection, so this reduces the time that you take to access the Internet.

That was it for today. If you found this post useful, then kindly share it with your friends and other social circles. Looking forward for your comments below! 

*by andreascy*

The Parents' Guide To Buying Video Games

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Buying a new video game is one of the joys of being a gamer. For parents, walking into game stores is a terrifying and frustrating experience. And it’s even worse in an online game shop where you can’t just look at the shelves and pray you find something suitable. Never fear, there are plenty of cheap Xbox games around in game sales and other special online offers.

Royalty Free or iStock source: http://office.microsoft.com/en-gb/images/

Before you go blundering around in the vain hope you’ll find something, here are some tips for buying games for your offspring.

Vouchers

Some game stores have this wonderful little tool where you can buy vouchers instead of games. Just take the vouchers home and give them to your kids. It puts the responsibility of buying their games firmly on their shoulders. It’s perfect if you don’t mind not giving them something to unwrap.

Vouchers don’t work as well in an online game shop, though, so you’ll have to think of something else for them.

Look at the Collection

Perform some reconnaissance work on your gamer. When they’re happily ploughing through enemies on the PC, see what games they’re playing. Look at what they’re playing regularly. Now you have a starting point to begin research.

Type the name of the game into Google and see if there are any upcoming sequels of this game. It’s easy to buy them the upcoming release because they already like the other installments so it’s likely they’ll enjoy this one just as much.

If you’re feeling brave, you can also buy a similar game. If they enjoy Call of Duty, they might enjoy playing Battlefield, and vice-versa.

Ask Them

Sometimes, it’s easier just to ask them. Ignore your impulses to only buy cheap Xbox games and just talk to your gamer. They’ll tell you exactly what you want. It doesn’t need to be a surprise. Young people are smart. If they know their parents know they’re always on a certain game and there’s a new release they’ll probably end up unwrapping it on Christmas morning.

With this in mind, get them to give you a list of games they’re looking to try. Use this list and make your own decision on what seems the most suitable.

Age Rating System

The age rating system for games is similar to the one used for films. Don’t stick to it rigidly. The chances are they’ve already played a game which is supposedly too old for them. Take it into account and use the Internet to investigate the content for yourself. Only you can determine what’s suitable.

Children have different levels of maturity. Dealing with guns and killing might be unsuitable for some, whereas other children are more mature than their years. Compare the content with your values and perceptions.

Just use the age rating as a general marker for your buying decisions.

RELATED: Game-Changing Reasons Why Parents Can Say Yes to Video Games

When the game sales come around, you can buy with confidence. You never know, you might also find yourself playing some of the hottest titles! :)

*by andreascy*

Top Tech Money Savers for Your Business

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Running a business is expensive. That’s just the name of the game. Them's the breaks, as they say. You need to pay your employees. You need to pay your taxes. You need supplies and for your utilities to stay on. All of those things cost money. 

There is no rule, however, that says you have to pay full price for everything all the time. Here are some of the best ways you can save money on technology for your business and use technology to save your business money:

1. Print Smart

If you’re paying full price for your toner and ordering it directly from the printer manufacturer, stop it! That’s like taking your car to the dealership for an inspection. There are much better ways to get your toner needs taken care of, and this includes your toner cartridge, premium LaserJet options or repairs for your copy machine. Why pay full price and then some if you don’t have to?

2. Go Solar

Solar chargers are going to be the best thing that happened to your office and your business utility bill. Solar chargers (especially if you get the “expanded editions” AKA, bigger cells that can store more power) make it possible to charge everything from cell phones and PDAs to laptop computers without ever having to plug those things in to an A/C outlet. This cuts down on the amount of energy your company uses (which reduces your electric bill). 

They’re also portable so they can help your employees keep their devices charged no matter where they are. Plus, going green is good karma, and what business couldn't use good karma!

3. Tablets Rule, Desktops Drool

Switch to tablet computers instead of forcing your employees to use desktops. Microsoft has great deals for small business owners who want to furnish their employees with tablets (Apple has similar deals if the iPad is more your company’s style). A few years ago switching to tablets was a pipe dream. Now, though, thanks to accessories like keyboards, styluses, etc you can get your tablet to function just like your desktop (sometimes even better).

This also helps make your workplace more portable. Your employees won’t require as much space to do their jobs. You can donate the desktop computers to charity for an additional business write off. Everybody wins!

4. Independent Contractors

Independent contractors and freelancers offer you the ability to get top notch work done for a fraction of what you’d pay for a full time employee. Plus, thanks to web based tools for teleconferencing, desktop sharing, etc—people can work together no matter where they are physically located. The primary benefit of working with an independent contractor or freelancer is that you only have to pay for the number of hours spent actually working or the work that actually gets completed. You don’t have to pay for time spent sitting in the office surfing Google News or playing Candy Crush on Facebook.

Even better, independent contractors and freelancers manage their own taxes and finances so you’ll save time and effort on your payroll duties.

Conclusion

These are just some of the things you can do to save money for your business (while also embracing the latest technologies). What are some of the things you’ve done to help save money and keep your business up to “techno-date”?

READ ALSO: Tech for the Sales Team

You are free to leave your questions below. Thank you for your time!

*by andreascy*

Google Now Desktop Wallpapers Collection 4

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Hello guys. How are things at your end today? Have you heard about Google's personal assistant application known as "Google Now"?

Having used it for months, I can tell you how great it is. It presents me just the information I need, when I need it, and tailored to my current location. Google's latest hot product for Android and iOS is simply amazing! The more you use it, the more useful it gets, as it figures out what you need and when. 

Some days ago, we published here at THE OFFICIAL ANDREASCY some beautiful Google Now(ish) Desktop Walllpaper Collections that let you enjoy the highly artistic backgrounds that you see in the Google Now app, for your 1920x1080px displays. Not the original ones, but inspired from Google Now’s aesthetics and overall design. 

Different artists come up with a bunch of wallpaper ideas but just a few toke our real attention. Our friend Brebenel Silviu with his great and unique skills is one of them! Today, we are sharing with you the 4th part of the series that contains four Beach versions ready to decorate and enchance your screens. 

If you like what you see, then:

1. Right-click on the image you wish to save.

 

2. Click Save picture as… 

3. Navigate to the folder where you wish to save the image to, then click Save.

Collection 4:

(a)

(b)

(c)

(d)

Looking forward to hearing your feedback and insights in the comments below. Be sure to leave your thoughts! 

If you are interested to feature your personal works on our Blog, then feel free to contact us. If you want more of us in your life, then subscribe on our RSS feed and Daily Newsletter. 

Take care everyone! 😎

*by andreascy*

Google Now Desktop Wallpapers Collection 3

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

It's being some time now that we've shared with our lovely readers, here at THE OFFICIAL ANDREASCY, a number of carefully picked wallpapers. From motivational wallpapers of every type, to Windows 8, Minimalism, and Google Now. Wallpapers for bloggers, developers, designers, techies, and readers who are hungry for some creativity and inspiration.

We mentioned Google Now wallpapers, because that's the main topic for today. 

Since it launched last year, Google Now, for many, has become a staple in the Google or Android experience. It's location within the operating system itself, beneath the Home button in all of the pure-Google-experience Nexus devices, is an indication of just how important Google feels the service is.

We also believe that it represents the best of Google, so we are sharing the next pack of the wallpaper series, made by Brebenel Silviu. Simply, scroll down below and...

1. Right-click on the image you wish to save.

 

2. Click Save picture as… 

3. Navigate to the folder where you wish to save the image to, then click Save.

In case you missed the previous releases, follow this link.

Collection 3:

(a)

(b)

(c)

(d)

Sharing equals with Caring! If you like this post, you know what to do. Show your best support to the creator and help this community to reach and hopefully inspire even more people. 

Stay tuned because we hear that Silviu brings some interesting things around including a Google Now Suite for XWidget. 😉

*by andreascy*

Have You Ever Heard Of Manufactured Real-Estate?

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

A part of the world is banking on the success of artificially created real-estate, quite literally, since for some time now, developers have been smiling all the way to the bank. And artificial real-estate doesn’t refer to just buildings --- no, no --- we’re talking about man-made islands in the Persian Gulf where development incorporates natural habitat and ecosystems. This is referred to as terraforming; and the most outrageous whims can be developed and accommodated for those where money is no issue. 

Replicas of lost civilizations as well as breath-taking 5-star themed hotels, high-rise malls, a sea-world and exclusive retail outlets, jut outward, literally, over the Arabian Gulf waters, staking their unusual real-estate claims.

Tell Me More!

A world-class golf course lies among private homes, which are scattered throughout, flanked by fresh-water streams flowing alongside them. A myriad of architectural styles used for these homes reflect ancient designs from various areas of the world including the Orient, Middle-East, Mediterranean Africa, Europe or even quaint sea-village homes built on stilts. One has the option of designing one’s own home that would reflect a unique style indigenous to any culture of the world.

According to developers, the real-estate market is booming due to the Dubai government maintaining low interest rates and ‘low’ property costs to encourage foreign investment and residency. And supposedly, Dubai is having a difficult time keeping up with the demands from those who are financially able to take part in these outlandish real-estate projects.

‘The World’:

This is only one of many themed real-estate pieces; and it is located 2.5 miles off the coast of Dubai and is made up of 300 individual islands shaped like the earth’s continents - England, Shanghai, Tasmania and many more--with micro-versions of each continent’s unique offerings such as castles, an African game preserve, full-scale, replicated Caribbean ships, etc., created for private ownership. And if you have a yearning to possess your own island, have your checkbook handy since there are still some available for sale.

Official water patrols provide security; and posh water taxis continually ferry guests between each ‘water world’ environment day and night.

A Sinking Dream?

It needs to be stated, however, that financial experts maintain that development has slowed down due to the 2008 financial crisis. Local developers deny that assertion inspite of the fact that property values on Dubai’s mainland have fallen 58% from their peak in the fourth quarter of 2008. It is, also, being alleged the synthetic islands are slowly sinking into the sea. This has been confirmed by geological surveys and many homeowners, living in this once-unquestioned piece of paradise, are furious regarding this sinking revelation. And any sinking issues may or may not have anything to do with the unarguable fact that many investors have reconsidered and backed out and some have asked for, and have received, investment reimbursements. Some argue for the more familiar real estate investments as seen on Dunhill Homes.

Whether this manufactured real-estate is losing value or whether islands are truly sinking, as of mid-July 2012, properties have continued to open - but one has to wonder: For how long?

SEE ALSO: 3 Best Tools For Construction Project Management

We appreciate your readership. If you liked the post, please use the share tools.

*by andreascy*

What To Expect From Web Based Games

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Technology sure has changed a lot about the way our planet revolves; from communication, to business, and the way by which we entertain ourselves. Back in the day, the world seemed to be sailing along just fine with snail mail, telegrams, news ads, board games, and Frisbee. Nowadays, iPads, PSPs, and other technological gadgets have become the modern-day pacifiers for toddlers while the Internet has usurped printed media from its throne in information dissemination. 

Like mentioned earlier, technology has changed the world’s perception of entertainment. We now live in a society where the Internet has become an indispensable element - be it for communication and for, again - entertainment. One clear manifestation of this would be the growing popularity of online games.

Online games, as the name has it, are games that can be played with the use of an Internet connection. A few years back, video games that were played through gaming consoles were a hot fad. Now, it’s these games that can be played with nothing but a functional computer (or any gadget that resembles its functions) and a stable Internet connection. They are quite enticing and even addictive for many because not only are they highly accessible (not requiring the players to have a copy of the software) - they usually are for free too!

But don’t celebrate just yet, because as the cliché goes, certain things are too good to be true. So, yes, the Internet offers an avenue for gaming that’s practically free - however, there are downsides to these. Web-based games that come for free are actually just a preview version of the full one, or might still be enjoyable but not without the periodic pauses that give way for ads that fund the development of such games. If you are the occasional, just-to-pass-time player, then it shouldn’t be a problem. But for those with serious gaming outlooks who want to take advantage of upgraded features and seamless gaming, then doling out some bucks shouldn’t hurt too much.

Another good news about web-based games is that players can choose whichever game genre they feel like playing. Even those who love playing strategy games can find their cup of tea in online gaming as there are now a myriad of web based strategy games that users can choose from. If you are still unfamiliar with strategy games, these are games that require some ability in decision-making and analysis in order to garner a win. One good old example of a strategy game would be the board game chess.

Web gaming developers have done a magnificent job at combining classic favorites with the convenience offered by advanced technology; however, they have also done an equally genius job at crafting never-heard-before games that not only challenge the players’ analytical prowess, but as well tickles their imagination. This is highly possible today because of the new and advanced features available to the gaming arena which includes 3D perspective, and the availability of multiplayer selections which allow gamers from one area to play with other gamers coming from far off regions.

RECOMMENDED: What New Browser Games Have To Offer

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*by andreascy*

Google Now Desktop Wallpapers Collection 2

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Hello folks! Here on THE OFFICIAL ANDREASCY we are always on the hunt for beautiful new wallpapers. We appreciate hard work and creativity from the graphic designers so we are always trying to find ways to support them as much as we can.

We've featured a few Google Now Desktop wallpapers this year that got your interest. We are happy that our first collection received a fair attention on social media and we want to thank you for your support. Today we decided to share the next collection that will definitely make you love it!

As you probably know, Google Now gets you just the right information at just the right time. It tells you today’s weather before you start your day, how much traffic to expect before you leave for work, and more.

It's one of the most intuitive things which Google has done for smartphones. I just wish there was an easily accessible way to get in touch with the developers. Also, the events could have addresses on them not just venues so that the user is able to tell at a glance how far away they are, and perhaps cost too. The event feature is incredible though.

So what are you waiting for? Are you ready to enrich your desktop with these cute Google Now-styled wallpapers?

1. Right-click on the image you wish to save.

 

2. Click Save picture as… 

3. Navigate to the folder where you wish to save the image to, then click Save.

 Special only for your 1920x1080px display! If it's a yes then have a look:

Collection 2:

(a)

(b)

(c)

(d)

They are awesome, right? 😃😍

Ok that was it for today. Stay tuned on our Blog for the next Collection and subscribe also on our RSS feed for future updates directly to your inbox.

For more interesting backgrounds / wallpapers, check out some of our previous collections. Contact us if you have any great pieces you'd like to share (Write "Wallpaper Collections" in the subject line). 

*by andreascy*