Showing posts with label technology. Show all posts
Showing posts with label technology. Show all posts

HomeTechHacker: Unraveling the Differences in Internet Connection Types

Sunday, February 18, 2024

Satellite dish on house
Unraveling the Differences in Internet Connection Types

The choice of an internet connection is pivotal. This article delves into the differences among popular internet connection types, shedding light on their distinct features, advantages, and considerations.

The most popular broadband internet connections
Broadband internet, synonymous with high-speed connectivity, reigns supreme in most households and businesses. Offering fast and consistent speeds, broadband is delivered through various technologies, each with its unique characteristics.

DSL (Digital Subscriber Line):
Digital Subscriber Line, commonly known as DSL, utilizes existing telephone lines to transmit internet data. With moderate speeds and widespread availability, DSL is an affordable option for many. However, its speed can diminish with distance from the provider's central hub.

Internet connection
Cable Internet:

Cable internet, delivered through the same coaxial cables used for cable TV, provides faster speeds than DSL. It is widely available in urban areas, but bandwidth is shared among users in a neighborhood, potentially leading to reduced speeds during peak hours.

Fiber Optic:
Fiber optic internet is the gold standard for speed and reliability. Transmitting data through thin glass fibers using light signals, fiber optic internet offers unparalleled speed and is less susceptible to interference. While not as widespread as DSL or cable, its availability is growing, especially in urban areas.

DSL vs. Cable vs. Fiber
When deciding between DSL, cable, and fiber optic internet, several factors come into play:

1. Speed:
- DSL: Moderate speeds, typically ranging from 1 to 100 Mbps.
- Cable: Faster than DSL, with speeds ranging from 20 to 1,000 Mbps.
- Fiber Optic: The fastest, with speeds reaching up to 10 Gbps.

2. Reliability:
- DSL: Can be affected by the distance from the provider's hub.
- Cable: Shared bandwidth might result in decreased speeds during peak usage.
- Fiber Optic: Highly reliable with consistent speeds and minimal interference.

3. Availability:
- DSL: Widely available, especially in rural areas.
- Cable: Common in urban and suburban areas.
- Fiber Optic: Limited availability but expanding, primarily in urban centers.

4. Price:
- DSL: Generally more affordable than cable and fiber.
- Cable: Offers a balance between speed and cost.
- Fiber Optic: Higher cost but delivers unmatched speed and reliability.

Most people focus on download speeds, and rightfully so. But if you are looking for higher upload speeds, Fiber tends to beat cable and DSL by a lot.

Installing fiber cable
Satellite: Bridging the Rural Divide


For those residing in remote or rural areas where traditional broadband options may be limited, satellite internet emerges as a viable alternative. 

Operating through communication satellites in Earth's orbit, satellite internet provides a connection virtually anywhere. 

While it offers more accessibility, satellite internet is known for higher latency and data usage restrictions.

Mobile Broadband

In the age of smartphones and tablets, mobile broadband has become integral to staying connected on the move. Utilizing cellular networks, mobile broadband offers convenience but may have limitations in terms of speed and data allowances.
These days cellular providers offer cellular routers and hotspots that can be used for home service without many of the data restrictions that some plans meant for phones have.

Choosing the Right Connection

Selecting the ideal internet connection involves considering factors such as speed requirements, budget constraints, and geographic location. While broadband options like DSL, cable, and fiber dominate urban landscapes, satellite, and mobile broadband bridge connectivity gaps in more remote areas. The choice ultimately boils down to individual needs and priorities.

Marlon Buchanan is a best-selling author, IT Director, and founder of HomeTechHacker.com, a website with free resources to help you make the most of your home technology. 

If you have questions or comments about this article you can contact Marlon through his website or X (Twitter).

Previous HomeTechHacker articles can be seen here


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Online Computer Classes for adults free from the King County Library

Thursday, February 1, 2024

Online Computer Classes for adults, presented by Bridget of Gentle Tech Help, sponsored by the King County Public Library System.

Sessions will not be recorded.

Please register at 1.kcls.org/OnlineComputerClasses for one or all classes. Registration is individual for each class.

Manage Your Online Accounts
Wednesday, February 7, 2-3pm


Learn approaches to vital tasks such as updating your passwords and contact information.

Spreadsheets for Beginners, Part 1
Wednesday, February 14, 2-3pm


An introduction to using simple spreadsheets for personal tasks such as budgets and travel planning.

Spreadsheets for Beginners, Part 2
Wednesday, February 21, 2-3pm


An introduction to using simple spreadsheets for personal tasks such as budgets and travel planning.

Improve Your Digital Security
Wednesday, March 6, 2-3pm


Learn tips to improve your safety against digital scams


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HomeTechHacker: The Importance of Data Privacy in Smart Homes: Protecting Your Personal Information

Monday, January 8, 2024

The Importance of Data Privacy in Smart Homes: Protecting Your Personal Information

By Marlon Buchanan

Smart home technology has transformed the way we live, providing convenience and efficiency with the integration of connected devices. However, as our homes become more connected, it’s crucial to understand the importance of data privacy. 

Safeguarding personal information in smart homes is paramount to prevent potential data breaches and protect our privacy. Let’s discuss the significance of data privacy in smart homes and explore measures to ensure your personal information remains secure.

Data Collection and Storage

Smart home devices are equipped with sensors and cameras that continuously gather data to function effectively. While this data collection enhances the user experience, it also raises concerns about the potential misuse of sensitive information. Information such as daily routines, habits, and even biometric data could be stored in cloud servers or shared with third-party providers. Homeowners need to be aware of what data is being collected, how it is used, and who has access to it to maintain control over their personal information.

Protecting Against Hacking Attempts

As smart home devices are connected to the internet, they become susceptible to hacking attempts and cyber-attacks. A breach in security could grant unauthorized access to personal data or even provide intruders with insights into a household's daily patterns, creating potential safety risks. 

To prevent hacking incidents, it is crucial to implement robust security measures such as using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and regularly updating firmware and software. Here are some additional tips for securing your smart home.

The Risk of Data Sharing

Many smart home devices offer additional functionalities through integration with other services or platforms. While this integration enhances user experience, it also raises concerns about data sharing. Homeowners must be vigilant when granting permissions for data sharing, as this could lead to sensitive information being accessed by external entities. Reading privacy policies and opting for devices that prioritize user privacy can help mitigate these risks.

Regular Software Updates

Security vulnerabilities are continually evolving, and software updates play a crucial role in addressing these concerns. Homeowners should regularly update the firmware and software of their smart devices to ensure they are protected against the latest security threats. 

Manufacturers that prioritize security should provide frequent updates to address any discovered vulnerabilities promptly. This is something I emphasize in my free home network security course.

As smart homes become an integral part of modern living, ensuring data privacy is of utmost importance. Protecting personal information in smart homes not only prevents potential data breaches and cyber-attacks but also safeguards your privacy and security.

Marlon Buchanan
If you’d like to take a comprehensive approach to keeping your smart home safe, preventing identity theft, and staying safe online check out my The Home Network Manual or The Personal Cybersecurity Manual books or enroll in my Personal Cybersecurity Protection online course.

Marlon Buchanan is a best-selling author, IT Director, and founder of HomeTechHacker.com, a website with free resources to help you make the most of your home technology.

If you have questions or comments about this article you can contact Marlon through his website or Twitter.



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Online computer classes from King County Library in January

Saturday, January 6, 2024

The King County Library System offers a wide range of free classes, both in person at various libraries and online.

January features a series of Online Computer Classes for adults presented by Bridget of Gentle Tech Help.

The sessions will not be recorded.

Register here - for one or all

Augmented Reality Fun on Your Phone
Wednesday, January 10, 2-3pm

Use free apps to explore an Egyptian pyramid, change your hair color and much more!

A Beginner’s Guide to iPhone Photography
Wednesday, January 17, 2-3pm

Learn about easy built-in tools to improve your everyday photos.

Simplify, Simplify, Simplify!
Wednesday, January 24, 2-3pm

Get tips to minimize time spent on your computer sorting email, printing documents and more.

Explore Google Arts & Culture
Wednesday, January 31, 2-3pm

Curious minds will enjoy walking through the world’s museums, playing with color and much more.


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Home Tech Hacker: Top 5 Smart Devices for Aging in Place: Enhancing Independence and Safety

Sunday, December 10, 2023

Smart home assistant
By Marlon Buchanan

Smart home devices offer invaluable support to ensure their safety and well-being as more seniors choose to age in place and maintain their independence. 

These smart devices promote convenience, comfort, and security. They have lots of benefits for seniors

Let’s explore the top 5 smart devices that empower seniors to age in place confidently.

1. Medical Alert Systems

Medical alert systems top the list of essential smart devices for seniors aging in place. These wearable devices come equipped with an emergency button that, when pressed, connects the senior to a monitoring center or pre-selected contacts. 

In case of a fall or medical emergency, help can be dispatched promptly, providing seniors with reassurance that assistance is always within reach. 

Some advanced models also offer fall detection capabilities, automatically alerting emergency services when a fall is detected and the user may not be able to call for help.

Smart lighting
2. Smart Lighting

Navigating through dimly lit areas can be a challenge for anyone. 

It can be especially problematic for seniors, increasing the risk of accidents and falls. 

Smart lighting solutions help by automatically illuminating spaces as seniors move around their homes. 

Motion-activated lights and smart bulbs can be installed in hallways, bathrooms, and other key areas to provide instant illumination. 

Voice-activated assistants, like Amazon's Alexa or Google Assistant, can also be used to control lighting, allowing seniors to adjust brightness without having to reach for switches.

3. Smart Thermostats

Maintaining a comfortable indoor environment is crucial for seniors' well-being, especially considering temperature fluctuations may impact health. 

Smart thermostats enable easy temperature control and can be programmed to adjust heating and cooling schedules according to the senior's preferences and daily routines. 

With remote access via smartphones, seniors can conveniently regulate the temperature from anywhere in their homes, promoting comfort and energy efficiency.

Smoke detector
4. Smart Home Sensors

Smart home sensors play a crucial role in enhancing safety and preventing potential hazards. 

Water leak sensors, for example, can detect leaks and alert seniors to prevent flooding incidents. 

Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide sensors provide early warnings in case of fire or gas leaks, allowing seniors to respond promptly or evacuate if necessary. 

These smart sensors add an extra layer of security and peace of mind for both seniors and their caregivers.

5. Voice Assistants

Voice assistants are incredibly beneficial for seniors as they provide an intuitive and hands-free way to interact with technology. Seniors can use voice commands to set reminders, make phone calls, ask for the weather forecast, or access information. 

The simplicity of using voice assistants eliminates the need for complicated interfaces, making them particularly user-friendly for seniors who may not be familiar with the technology.

The top 5 smart devices for aging in place cater to the unique needs and challenges faced by seniors, empowering them to maintain their independence and security. 

With the help of advanced technology, seniors can confidently age in place, knowing that they have the support they need to navigate their daily lives with ease.

Marlon Buchanan, HomeTechHacker
Marlon Buchanan is a best-selling author, IT Director, and founder of HomeTechHacker.com, a website with free resources to help you make the most of your home technology. 

If you have questions or comments about this article you can contact Marlon through his website or Twitter.


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Learn PowerPoint 1 in free class at Shoreline Library Monday November 13, 2023

Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Microsoft PowerPoint Level 1
Shoreline Library 

Monday, November 13, 10:30am-12pm

Learn how to create a slideshow presentation for school, work or home.

Must be able to use the mouse and keyboard.

Please register here


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HomeTechHacker: How Voice Assistants Can Simplify Your Life

Monday, November 6, 2023

By Marlon Buchanan

Voice assistants like Siri, Google Assistant, and Alexa have become an integral part of our daily lives. They have evolved into sophisticated digital companions that can simplify various aspects of our daily routines. 


In this article, we will explore the ways in which voice assistants can streamline tasks, enhance productivity, and bring convenience to our lives.

Hands-Free Convenience

One of the most significant benefits of voice assistants is their hands-free operation. 

By using just your voice, you can accomplish tasks without the need to physically interact with devices. 

Whether you're cooking in the kitchen, driving, or simply relaxing on the couch, voice assistants allow you to access information, control smart home devices, and perform various tasks effortlessly.

Home Automation and Smart Devices

Voice assistants have become the most popular smart home hubs, offering seamless integration with a wide range of smart devices. 

Through voice commands, you can control smart lighting, adjust thermostats, lock doors, play music, and even order groceries. 

This level of home automation not only adds convenience but also enhances energy efficiency and security, making your home life simpler and more comfortable.

Hands-free in the car
Personal Task Management

Voice assistants excel in helping you manage your schedule and daily tasks efficiently. You can set reminders, create to-do lists, schedule appointments, and even check your calendar with a simple voice command. 

By keeping track of your commitments and obligations, voice assistants ensure you stay organized and on top of your responsibilities, reducing stress and improving productivity.

Hands-Free Communication

Voice assistants enable hands-free communication, making it safer and more convenient to stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues. 

You can make hands-free phone calls, send text messages, and even dictate emails, allowing you to maintain communication while on the go or when your hands are occupied. 

We use our voice assistants as an intercom system to notify family members that food is ready, someone is at the door, and many other messages.

Voice-Activated Entertainment

Voice assistants have transformed the way we consume entertainment. Whether you want to listen to your favorite music, play a specific song, or ask for movie recommendations, voice commands provide quick access to a vast array of entertainment options.

Homepod
Access to Information

Voice assistants serve as your virtual information resource. By asking questions aloud, you can get instant answers to queries about current events, weather forecasts, general knowledge, and more. 

The ability to access information hands-free fosters curiosity and continuous learning, making it easier to stay informed about the world around you.

Language Translation and Learning

Voice assistants with language translation capabilities have become invaluable for travelers and language enthusiasts. 

These assistants can quickly translate phrases and sentences into various languages, helping you communicate more effectively in foreign countries or during international encounters. 

Moreover, you can use voice assistants to practice language learning, improving pronunciation and vocabulary through interactive exercises.

Voice assistants have undoubtedly become an indispensable part of modern life, simplifying daily routines, and enhancing productivity. By providing hands-free convenience, seamless integration with smart devices, efficient task management, and access to a wealth of information, voice assistants have transformed the way we interact with technology and the world around us. 

As artificial intelligence continues to advance, we can expect voice assistants to become even more capable, further enriching our lives and simplifying tasks in ways we can only imagine.

Marlon Buchanan, HomeTechHacker
Marlon Buchanan is a best-selling author, IT Director, and founder of HomeTechHacker.com, a website with free resources to help you make the most of your home technology. 

If you have questions or comments about this article you can contact Marlon through his website or on Twitter.

See previous HomeTechHacker columns here.


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HomeTechHacker: Smart Home Energy Efficiency - How to Save Money and Conserve Energy

Monday, October 2, 2023

Solar panels
By Marlon Buchanan

As technology continues to evolve, so does our ability to optimize and improve the way we use energy in our homes. 

The rise of smart home devices has paved the way for more efficient energy consumption, empowering homeowners to save money and contribute to a sustainable future. 

Let’s discuss smart home energy efficiency, and delve into practical ways to conserve energy and reduce costs.

What is Smart Home Energy Efficiency?

Smart home energy efficiency refers to the integration of intelligent devices and systems that help homeowners monitor, manage, and reduce their energy consumption. These devices are equipped with sensors, automation capabilities, and connectivity to the internet, allowing users to control and regulate various aspects of their home energy usage remotely. From thermostats and lighting to appliances and entertainment systems, smart technologies are changing how we interact with energy in our homes.

Ecobee thermostat
Smart Thermostats

One of the most impactful smart devices for energy efficiency is the smart thermostat. 

Unlike conventional thermostats, which require manual adjustments, smart thermostats learn from user behavior and adjust temperature settings accordingly. 

They can also be remotely controlled through smartphone apps, so homeowners can optimize heating and cooling even when they are away. 

By programming the thermostat to lower temperatures when nobody is home or during sleeping hours, substantial energy savings can be achieved. 

I do this with my Ecobee thermostat.

Energy-Efficient Lighting

Smart lighting solutions, such as LED bulbs and smart switches, significantly reduce energy consumption compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. 

Smart lighting systems can be scheduled to turn on and off at specific times, dimmed when full brightness is unnecessary, or even respond to motion sensors. The ability to control lights remotely and set customized lighting scenes adds an extra layer of convenience while saving energy.

Energy monitor
Energy Monitoring Devices

For a comprehensive understanding of energy usage patterns, homeowners can employ smart energy monitoring devices. 

These devices track the energy consumption of individual appliances and provide real-time data through smartphone apps. 

Armed with this knowledge, users can identify energy hogs and make informed decisions about usage, leading to more efficient energy consumption.

Smart Appliances

Modern smart appliances, such as refrigerators, washing machines, and dishwashers, are designed with energy efficiency in mind. Many of them are Energy Star certified, meaning they meet rigorous energy efficiency standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 

Smart appliances can be programmed to run during off-peak hours, when electricity rates are typically lower, further reducing energy costs.

Home Automation

Integrating smart home devices into a centralized automation system allows homeowners to create energy-saving routines. For example, you can automate the process of turning off lights, adjusting thermostat settings, and powering down electronic devices when leaving the house. 

This not only saves energy but also adds an extra layer of security and convenience.

Renewable Energy Integration

For the environmentally-conscious homeowner, incorporating renewable energy sources into the smart home ecosystem is an excellent way to save money and reduce carbon footprint. Solar panels, for instance, can generate clean energy from the sun and be paired with smart inverters and battery storage systems for optimal efficiency.

Smart home energy efficiency offers a myriad of benefits, from cost savings to environmental preservation. By embracing intelligent technologies, homeowners can take control of their energy consumption and contribute to a sustainable future.

Marlon Buchanan is a best-selling author, IT Director, and founder of HomeTechHacker.com, a website with free resources to help you make the most of your home technology. 

If you have questions or comments about this article you can contact Marlon through his website or on Twitter.

Previous columns by Marlon Buchanan can be seen here.


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Coast Guard in the Arctic: High-latitude maritime Artificial Intelligence

Sunday, September 24, 2023

Technology aboard the Healy
Photo courtesy U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Area

YOLO! But we don't mean You Only Live Once!

It's time to see what the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Healy has been up to and talk about high-latitude maritime Artificial Intelligence!

The changing environment in the Arctic is leading to increased marine traffic. As the maritime industry embraces technology like AI on vessels, having datasets from the Arctic environment to train new models on is critical to making tools that will work in this environment.

A team on the Healy is collecting arctic imagery to serve as a basis for AI Computer Vision Models.

An MIT Lincoln Laboratory (MITLL) and a Coast Guard Research and Development Center (RDC) team are using the MITLL system to record infrared video and still imagery.

Due to the long periods of darkness in the Arctic, the use of infrared technology to develop models that will still work at night was important to the team.

Cmdr. Blair Sweigart, PhD, who directs the service’s AI research portfolio, is running the project on the vessel. As the imagery is collected, he and his team are also running preliminary tests with standard computer vision models like YOLO (You Only Look Once) version 8, to better understand the need for model retraining. 

The work also supports the RDC Modeling, Simulation, and Analysis Branch’s research project on computer vision.

The MITLL team, led by Amna Graves and Jo Kurucar, is looking to make the dataset publicly available to allow a broader community to work on models that will benefit those working in the Arctic maritime regions.

The project is a collaboration between MIT Lincoln Laboratory (MITLL) and the Coast Guard Research and Development Center (RDC). The resulting dataset will be used to develop AI tools for the Arctic region.


--U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Area

The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Healy is homeported in Puget Sound



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HomeTechHacker: 5 Settings to Configure on Your WI-FI Router Now

Sunday, September 3, 2023

Router
By Marlon Buchanan

Your Wi-Fi router is the most important home networking device. It protects your home from bad actors. It also plays a key role in your network’s speed and stability. 

Making sure your Wi-Fi router is configured to give the safest and the best experience is important. Here are seven settings that you should configure now.

1. Use the highest Wi-Fi security standard

WPA3, or Wi-Fi Protected Access 3, is the latest standard for securing Wi-Fi connections. It uses more powerful encryption than WPA2, better protecting your network from snooping hackers. Most Wi-Fi devices don’t yet support WPA3, but newer devices do and soon they will become ubiquitous.

Make sure you have WPA3 enabled on your router for the devices that do support it. Routers that support WPA3 are backward compatible with WPA2, which is the lowest standard you should use (WEP isn’t secure anymore).

WiFi lock
2. Set your router to automatically update your firmware

Your router (and the firewall in it) is your primary defense against hackers penetrating your network. 

New vulnerabilities are discovered all the time, and you want to make sure that your router has the latest protections. 

Periodically check to see whether your router has an available firmware update and keep your router up to date. Many routers will notify you of a firmware update, or automatically update it based on a schedule you choose.

3. Set up Quality of Service (QoS)

Quality of service, or QoS, allows your router to prioritize Internet uploads and downloads for certain types of traffic (e.g., video streaming, videoconferencing, and voice over IP) and devices (e.g., computers, smart TVs, and gaming consoles). This helps improve the experience of devices that need solid connections. I recommend taking the time to learn how to enable and configure your router’s QoS settings, especially if you have a slower Internet connection.

4. Change the default router username and password

You never want to leave the default username and password on any Internet-connected device. It leaves an easy door to compromise your network security. I highly recommend that you change the default username and password before doing any configuration of your router.

5. Set up a guest network

If you don’t have a guest network, you may find yourself in a situation where you have guests over and you have to give them your password so they can access your network. 

This gives your guests not only your password, which may be sensitive and used for different accounts (although, you should not reuse passwords) but also access to all of your networked devices (printers, network shares, PCs, etc.).

A proper guest network allows you to set a separate and shareable password for your guests. It also protects your private computer resources from being compromised by guests.

Many routers make configuring a guest network simple. If yours does, it’s worth learning how to configure it. Otherwise, consider purchasing a router or access point that has the feature.

Marlon Buchanan
HomeTechHacker.com
Be sure to check out my free Wi-Fi Tuneup guide for more tips about making your Wi-Fi top-notch. Get a copy of my best-selling book, The Home Network Manual

If you are looking for a comprehensive guide to making your home network, fast, stable, and secure. It’s available in Kindle, paperback, and audiobook formats.

Marlon Buchanan is a best-selling author, IT Director, and founder of HomeTechHacker.com, a website with free resources to help you make the most of your home technology. 

If you have questions or comments about this article you can contact Marlon through his website or on Twitter.


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HomeTechHacker: Outsmarting Cybercriminals 101: Follow these Top 5 Tips

Sunday, July 23, 2023

By Marlon Buchanan

Cybersecurity is a growing concern for individuals and businesses alike. With cybercriminals becoming more sophisticated in their tactics, it's important to take proactive steps to protect yourself and your sensitive data. 

Let’s discuss five tips for outsmarting cybercriminals and keeping your information safe.

Tip 1: Use Strong Passwords

The first and perhaps most important tip for outsmarting cybercriminals is to use strong passwords. A strong password should be at least 12 characters long and be a phrase that’s easy for you to remember but hard for others to guess that doesn’t contain personal information like your name or birthdate. You should also avoid using the same password for multiple accounts, as this can make it easy for cybercriminals to gain access to all of your sensitive information.

Tip 2: Keep Your Software Up-to-Date

Another step in outsmarting cybercriminals is to keep your software up-to-date. This step includes your operating system, web browsers, mobile phones, and applications you use regularly. Updates often contain security patches that help protect against known vulnerabilities that cybercriminals may exploit.

Tip 3: Be Wary of Phishing Emails

Phishing is a common tactic used by cybercriminals to gain access to sensitive information. These attacks often come in the form of emails that appear to be from a legitimate source, such as a bank or online retailer. 

However, these emails may contain links to fake websites or ask for personal information like your login credentials or credit card information. To outsmart these attacks, be wary of emails that ask for personal information and always double-check the sender's email address and the URL of any links included in the message.

Tip 4: Use Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication is an extra layer of security that requires you to provide two forms of identification before accessing an account. This can include something you know, like a password, and something you have, like a mobile phone. By using two-factor authentication, you can make it much more difficult for cybercriminals to gain access to your accounts even if they do manage to obtain your login credentials.

Tip 5: Be Mindful of Your Online Behavior

Your online behavior can also play a critical role in outsmarting cybercriminals. Avoid sharing sensitive personal information, such as your full name, address, phone number, or financial details, on public forums, social media, or other public platforms. 

Be cautious of the information you post online and limit the amount of personal information you share. Additionally, be wary of unsolicited emails, messages, or phone calls asking for personal information, even if they appear to be from trusted sources. Cybercriminals often use social engineering tactics to gather information and gain unauthorized access to accounts.

Marlon Buchanan
HomeTechHacker.com
Outsmarting cybercriminals is an ongoing process that requires constant vigilance and attention to detail. 

If you’d like to take a comprehensive approach to stopping scammers, preventing identity theft, and staying safe online check out my book The Personal Cybersecurity Manual or consider enrolling in my Personal Cybersecurity Protection online course.

Marlon Buchanan is a best-selling author, IT Director, and founder of HomeTechHacker.com, a website with free resources to help you make the most of your home technology. If you have questions or comments about this article you can contact Marlon through his website or on Twitter.



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Big news and big wins at the National Technology Student Association Conference

Wednesday, July 12, 2023

Shoreline students at technology conference

Sixteen Shorecrest, two Shorewood, and three Cascade K-8 students traveled to Louisville, Kentucky, recently for the National Technology Student Association Conference, for which they all qualified in March.

Each and every student who traveled to Kentucky competed with extremely high quality work, perseverance, and professionalism.

At a conference with 6,000 students from across the nation, Shorecrest had several teams and individuals who achieved high honors:
  • Forensics Science Team - Hannah Bolton and Lola Maas finished as top 10 finalists
  • Music Production Team - Cyrus Atkinsonclark, Ronan Connell, Jameson Gibbs and Vivian Zittle won 2nd Place
  • Promotional Design - Aiden Rouhani won 2nd Place
  • Structural Design and Engineering Team - Devin Montegue and Shyam Srinivasan finished as top 10 finalists
  • Systems Control Technology Team - Jameson Gibbs, Brendan Rudberg and Aidan Welsh won 1st Place
Shares Shorecrest Math and Engineering teacher Emily Slack, "We have never had this many students on stage in the history of Shorecrest's Technology Student Association. A giant congratulations to all of our Shoreline students!"


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Online help to learn Google Docs and Drive - Wednesdays in July

Thursday, June 29, 2023



Register here:

https://kcls.bibliocommons.com/events/648b34aa65b521b504b7caf1

Next session: Wednesday, July 12, 2-3pm

Use Google’s videos and work at your own pace, then attend class with questions. Join any week! Presented by Bridget of Gentle Tech Help.

This program will not be recorded. Notes will be emailed to registrants after the session.

Please register by 1pm on the day of the program. You will be emailed a link no later than one hour before the program start time. If you do not see an email, check your Junk or Spam folder.


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Cantwell, Murray announce $1.2 billion federal investment in WA broadband infrastructure

Tuesday, June 27, 2023

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Patty Murray (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that the State of Washington will receive $1,227,742,066 from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to help expand broadband access to areas that remain without high-speed broadband.

Congress established and funded the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). 

The new program, which is administered by the Department of Commerce, is providing a block grant to the Washington State Broadband Office (WSBO), which will determine how to invest the allocation within the state.

“The COVID pandemic laid bare just how crucial fast and affordable internet access is for all Washingtonians. But for more than a quarter of a million households in the State of Washington, broadband remains inaccessible,” Sen. Cantwell said. 
“This major new broadband investment will help ensure that more Washingtonians – from patients booking a telehealth appointment, to students filing an assignment, to small business owners connecting with customers – are able to fully participate in our 21st Century economy.”

Sen. Murray said “This is the biggest investment ever in high-speed internet access and digital inclusion in Washington and it’s going to create meaningful opportunities for families and small businesses in every part of our state, all while creating good-paying jobs and connecting communities. 

"It’s great to see funding we passed in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law getting out the door to bring Washington state one big step closer to guaranteeing reliable access to high-speed internet for everyone.”

The State of Washington received the tenth highest allocation in BEAD funding. Although Washington state is among the highest-ranked states for overall broadband subscription rates, the WSBO reports that 9% of households in the state lack a broadband internet subscription, which translates to roughly 264,000 Washington state households.

Across the United States, nearly 8.5 million locations lack access to high-speed internet service, and millions more struggle with limited or unreliable internet options. 

Last year, the Biden Administration launched the Internet for All initiative with $65 billion from the BIL and $25 billion from the American Rescue Plan, and several other high-speed internet programs.

Both senators are longtime champions of expanding broadband access to communities nationwide. 

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law included Sen. Murray’s Digital Equity Act to help close the digital divide by funding activities that provide individuals and communities with the skills and technologies necessary to take full advantage of internet connection. 

Additionally, as a lead author of the American Rescue Plan, Sen. Murray worked to include $7 billion in emergency E-Rate funding in the legislation for schools and libraries to cover the costs of equipment and broadband connections for students, staff, and patrons — and she repeatedly pushed the FCC to take action to help close the homework gap during the pandemic.


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HomeTechHacker: 6 Online Shopping Tools You Should Be Using

Sunday, June 25, 2023

By Marlon Buchanan

Much like regular shopping, online shopping is a skill. 

There are tools you can use to save money, shop more securely, better organize your shopping lists, and more. 

Here are seven online shopping tools you should be using.

Buy Nearby

Buy Nearby is a Chrome extension that shows you local businesses selling the items you’re looking at on sites like Amazon and eBay. It will actually use markers on Google maps to show where the items are located.

ReviewMeta

ReviewMeta is a free tool that analyzes Amazon product reviews and tells you how reliable they are. It will identify some of the shady business that goes on with Amazon reviews and even gives you an adjusted review rating after filtering out some of the more unreliable and suspicious reviews.

ReviewMeta is available as a Chrome, Firefox, and Edge extension.

CNET Shopping (formally InvisibleHand)

CNET Shopping, formerly known as InvisibleHand, is a great comparison shopping Chrome extension. While browsing products on the web, CNET Shopping will show you how much that product costs at other popular online stores such as Best Buy, Amazon, Walmart, Target, and more. Never overpay again!

CNET Shopping is available as a Chrome, Firefox, and Edge extension.

OneCart

Do you have wishlists at Amazon, eBay, Best Buy, and other retailers? Do you hate having to go to different sites to see what is on each list? That’s where OneCart comes in. OneCart works with all the major online shops to allow you to create a universal wishlist that isn’t limited to an individual site. When you look at items in your wishlist, you can see what the price is at each of the retailers that carry them. You can also organize the items on your wishlist into folders.

OneCart is available as a Chrome, Firefox, and Edge extension.

PackageRadar

Keeping track of all the shipping tracking can be overwhelming when you do a lot of online shopping. This is especially true if you shop at a lot of different stores. 

The Package Radar website or app can take all of your shipping information and keep it in an easy-to-read dashboard. It supports all the major tracking services around the world. One less online shopping headache to deal with!

Two-Factor Authentication
Two-Factor Authentication

If you are doing a lot of shopping online, you should be using two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible. I’ve previously written about why 2FA is important and which 2FA methods are best

But I’ll say here, try to use some form of 2FA with all your accounts if it is offered. If you’re online a lot, you are more susceptible to cybercriminals and should take precautions.

Want to learn more about thwarting cybercriminals? 

Check out my book, The Personal Cybersecurity Manual: How Anyone Can Protect Themselves from Fraud, Identity Theft, and Other Cybercrimes.

If you’re doing a lot of online shopping, you owe it to yourself to use tools to save money, shop securely, and shop more efficiently. Try out some of these tools to improve your online shopping experiences.

Marlon Buchanan
Marlon Buchanan is a best-selling author, IT Director, and founder of HomeTechHacker.com, a website with free resources to help you make the most of your home technology. 

If you have questions or comments about this article you can contact Marlon through his website or on Twitter.

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$20 million FTC settlement addresses Microsoft Xbox illegal collection of kids’ data

Wednesday, June 7, 2023

Photo by Pawel Kadysz on unsplash.com
By Lesley Fair, FTC

Care About COPPA Compliance may not be the coolest Xbox gamertag, but an FTC action against Microsoft for alleged violations of the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act Rule suggests it might be a good choice nonetheless. 

Filed by the Department of Justice on the FTC’s behalf, the $20 million proposed settlement will require Microsoft to bolster privacy protections for kids who use its Xbox gaming system. 

The order also makes it clear that COPPA covers information like avatars generated from a child’s image, biometric data, and health data collected with other personal information – and reminds businesses that the Rule imposes strict limitations on the retention of data from kids.

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HomeTechHacker: 5 Reasons You Should Consider a Chromebook for Your Next Laptop

Monday, May 22, 2023

By Marlon Buchanan

What’s a Chromebook?

Chromebooks run ChromeOS, a Linux-based operating system featuring Chrome web browser as its primary interface. 

Most other laptops run either Windows or macOS. Chromebooks are designed to primarily be used while connected to the Internet because most ChromeOS applications are in the cloud.

Chromebooks have done well in the education market. Many schools have adopted them as a budget and security-conscious alternative to Windows laptops and iPads. My son’s school recently switched from iPads to Chromebooks because they found them less expensive and easier to support.

Reason #1: Chromebooks cost less

Most Chromebooks cost less than $400. A good, fully functional Chromebook can be found for $300 or less. That is less than the average cost of a Windows laptop and significantly less than Apple laptops.

Reason #2: Chromebooks have excellent battery life

Chromebooks are renowned for their battery life. You can find many that get 10-12 hours off of a full charge. 

Most Windows laptops can’t make it through a whole business day of regular usage without a charge. The MacBook Air and Pro get closer to Chromebook battery life but at a premium price.

Reason #3: You use a laptop and a large tablet

Chromebooks can double as Android tablets. Popular touchscreen models come with the Google Play market installed and run most Android apps, including games. You can easily turn your laptop into a large and fully functional Android tablet.

Reason #4: You value security

ChromeOS is more secure than Windows by design. They are much stricter on the type of software that can be installed, and their default security settings are designed to keep you safe. Also, as a less popular OS, they aren’t as enticing for hackers to exploit. The reduced popularity combined with the increased security means fewer exploitable bugs than Windows and MacOS. No OS is completely secure, but ChromeOS leads the laptop pack.

Reason #5: You don’t really need MS Office apps

Many people buy Windows laptops because they want to run Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. 

Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides can create documents that do most of what you want them to do and they can run on any computer with a modern web browser. You can even save your files from Google in MS Office formats.

I’m sure some of you have occasions where you have to use MS Office. 

You can buy an Office 365 subscription with the money you saved from not buying a Windows or Mac laptop and access Office Online. If you purchased a Chromebook that also runs Android apps you can you simply download the Office Android apps for free.

A couple of reasons not to buy a Chromebook

#1: You use a lot of Microsoft or Apple software


If you are deep in the Apple ecosystem, or you are a power user and rely heavily on various Microsoft software, you are going to be better off with a MacBook or Windows laptop. You can’t add a lot of desktop-based software to Chromebooks, and they don’t integrate seamlessly into other ecosystems.

#2 Your Wi-Fi isn’t very good.

If you aren’t going to be in places with a stable wifi connection to the Internet then your Chromebook will be a waste of money. This is somewhat true for most portable devices without a cellular connection, but for a machine built to access services from and store files in the cloud, this is extremely true.

Marlon Buchanan, HomeTechHacker
Marlon Buchanan is a best-selling author, IT Director, and founder of HomeTechHacker.com, a website with free resources to help you make the most of your home technology. 

If you have questions or comments about this article you can contact Marlon through his website or on Twitter.




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HomeTechHacker: Smart Home Tech that can increase your home’s value

Sunday, April 23, 2023

Looking to increase the value of your home and at the same time increase the convenience of your home and enjoy it more? Why not add some smart home tech?

Smart home technology has come a long way in recent years, and it's no longer just a futuristic concept. 

With a wide range of devices and systems available, it's easier than ever to transform your home into a smart home, and the benefits go beyond just convenience and comfort. 

One of the major advantages of smart home tech is that it can increase the value of your home, making it a smart investment for homeowners.

One of the key ways that smart home tech can increase the value of your home is through energy efficiency. 

Many smart home devices are designed to help you save energy, such as smart thermostats that can automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule and energy-efficient smart appliances. 

By reducing your energy usage, you can save money on your monthly bills and make your home more appealing to potential buyers. 

I personally use and recommend an ecobee Thermostat.

Another way that smart home tech can increase the value of your home is by increasing security and safety

Smart security systems can alert you to any unusual activity and allow you to monitor your home remotely, giving you peace of mind whether you're home or away. Smart door locks and smart garage doors can also provide an extra layer of security, and smart smoke and carbon monoxide detectors can help protect your home from potential hazards.

In addition to energy efficiency and security, smart home tech can also make your home more comfortable and convenient

Smart lighting systems allow you to control the lighting in your home from your smartphone, and smart home assistants like Amazon Echo and Google Home can make it easy to control other smart devices and perform tasks like setting reminders and playing music. 

These features can make your home more attractive to potential buyers and increase its value.

There are many different types of smart home tech to choose from, and it can be overwhelming to decide which devices are right for your home. 

Some popular options include smart thermostats, smart security systems, smart lighting systems, and smart home assistants. It's a good idea to do some research and consider your specific needs and budget before making any purchases. 

You can find advice about which smart home devices to buy using my simple HomeTechHacker Technology Advisor. Give it a try!

If you're thinking about selling your home in the future, it's worth considering how smart home tech can increase its value. 

While it may require some initial investment to install smart devices and systems, the benefits can far outweigh the costs in terms of energy savings, increased security, and convenience. 

By making your home more appealing to potential buyers, you can potentially increase its value and get a better return on your investment.

Go make your home smart today!

Marlon Buchanan, HomeTechHacker
Marlon Buchanan is a best-selling author, IT Director, and founder of HomeTechHacker.com, a website with free resources to help you make the most of your home technology. 


If you have questions or comments about this article you can contact Marlon through his website or on Twitter.


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