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Cloud Computing – Efficiency and Security

Remember when office servers had their own dedicated room? Then cloud computing came along and did away with all that. No more physical maintenance, no more expensive hardware upgrades – now we have instant access to storage and computing power whenever you need it. Super simple. Efficient. And almost too good to be true.

Except, of course, there’s security to think about.

For all the convenience, the cloud has its vulnerabilities. The biggest issue isn’t some movie-style hacker breaking through firewalls – it’s often missteps on our end. Weak passwords? That’s like leaving the front door unlocked. Sloppy encryption? Might as well hand over your data with a bow on top. And don’t get me started on DDoS attacks – if your cloud provider isn’t ready for them, your business could be forced offline in a heartbeat.

So what’s the fix? Security in the cloud isn’t about adding layers of complexity – it’s about smart habits. Two-factor authentication (2FA) makes life harder for intruders, so why not use it? Encrypting sensitive files before uploading them ensures that even if someone gets in, they won’t get anything useful. And security audits? Not glamorous but spotting misconfigurations before they turn into disasters is worth the hassle. Cloud providers are not all created equal. A flashy interface means nothing if the security behind it is flimsy. Choose one with rock-solid compliance standards and real accountability. You’ll thank yourself later.

 

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Must-Know Parental Controls on TP-Link Routers

A lot of parents ask us if we can do anything about shutting off the Internet for their family at certain hours. We can’t. But you can. Here’s how:

Must-Know Parental Controls on TP-Link Routers

TP-Link routers offer powerful parental control features that help parents manage their children’s online activities. With options to set time limits, block harmful content, and track browsing history, these tools ensure a safer and more controlled internet experience.

TP-Link Parental Controls

Shutting Off Internet Access

One of the most effective parental controls is the ability to schedule internet shutdowns. Parents can set specific time limits, ensuring that devices lose access to the internet during bedtime or study hours. This feature prevents excessive screen time and encourages healthier habits.

Blocking Malicious Content & Websites

TP-Link routers allow users to filter inappropriate websites by using blacklists and whitelists. Parents can block harmful content such as gambling, adult sites, or social media distractions. Additionally, built-in security features help prevent access to malicious websites, protecting devices from cyber threats.

Tracking Online Activity

For added oversight, TP-Link routers provide activity tracking, allowing parents to monitor browsing history and internet usage. This feature helps ensure children are engaging with safe and educational content while discouraging risky online behavior.

TP-Link Router Models with Advanced Parental Controls

Not all TP-Link routers offer the same level of parental control features, but some models provide enhanced customization for internet access and security.

  • Archer AX series (AX6000, AX11000, etc.) – These high-end Wi-Fi 6 routers include AI-driven security, robust parental controls, and advanced scheduling options for blocking internet access.
  • TP-Link Deco Mesh Systems (Deco X20, X60, etc.) – Designed for whole-home coverage, these mesh systems allow parents to set profiles for each child, monitor their online activity, and enforce restrictions across multiple devices.
  • Archer A series (A7, A9, etc.) – Budget-friendly options with basic parental controls like site filtering, internet pause, and activity tracking for connected devices.

How to Set Up Parental Controls

Checking TP-Link’s official settings for your specific model ensures you’re using the latest features – but here’s a rough guide of what to expect:

  1. Log into the router’s web interface (tplinkwifi.net).
  2. Navigate to “Parental Controls” under the settings menu.
  3. Add devices to be monitored or restricted.
  4. Set time limits for internet access.
  5. Create website filters using blacklists or whitelists.
  6. Enable activity tracking for monitoring browsing history.

Like I said – you should go TP-Links official settings to ensure they’re specific to your exact model.

TP-Link’s parental controls provide a simple yet effective way to manage internet access, block harmful content, and track online activity. By utilizing these features, parents can create a safer digital environment for their children.

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Remote Work Tech Trends

Remote Working

The Best Tools for the Modern Workforce

If you work remotely – whether freelancing solo or juggling meetings in a global team – you already know that the right tools can make or break your workflow. The difference between a smooth, productive day and one that feels like a never-ending tech troubleshooting session often comes down to which software you’re using.

The Essentials for Staying Connected

Here’s the deal: remote work lives or dies by communication. You might be the most efficient person on the planet, but if your team can’t reach you or files keep disappearing into the void, everything falls apart. Video calls? You’re looking at Zoom or Microsoft Teams. Do you love meetings? Probably not. But you’ll thank these platforms when you need to hash something out in real time instead of playing email ping-pong for days. And for the endless flow of quick questions, Slack or Discord make sure team chats don’t devolve into a chaotic mess.

Keeping Work Organized

No matter how good you are at multitasking, keeping track of everything is a hard. Trello and Asana help break tasks into bite-sized pieces. Notion and Evernote are lifesavers – great for notes and documentation. And if you need something more structured, Monday.com lets you assign work and track progress with ease.

Security Matters More Than You Think

It’s easy to assume cybersecurity is someone else’s problem—until a weak password or unsecured network puts your data at risk. VPNs (like NordVPN or ExpressVPN) keep your connection safe, LastPass and 1Password save you from using “password123” (again), and endpoint protection tools make sure your devices aren’t quietly leaking sensitive information. None of these things are flashy, but trust me, they matter.

Making Remote Work Actually Work

Look, it’s not just about having the right apps. The biggest challenge? Staying focused when your couch is three feet away. A dedicated workspace helps, structured schedules keep things from turning into a free-for-all, and time management apps like RescueTime make sure hours don’t magically disappear. Oh, and multi-factor authentication – it’s annoying, but do it. Better that than dealing with a security breach.

At the end of the day, remote work is a balancing act. The right tools help, but real productivity comes from setting boundaries, staying organized, and making sure you’re not drowning in distractions. And, honestly? Finding a system that works for you is the key – because the best software in the world won’t fix a workflow that doesn’t fit your style.

 

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The Psychology of Online Shopping

It’s Amazon, it’s Walmart, it’s Starbucks, it’s Uber, it’s IKEA – online shopping is everywhere, in our daily activities.

But let’s take a quick look at the psychology behind the concept of online shopping and how it subtly influences our decisions? (With no one particular website in mind per se.)

The Psychology of Online Shopping: How Websites Influence Consumer Behavior

Online shopping has become a big part modern life, not least because of convenience, personalized recommendations, and strategic marketing. But behind every purchase, websites use subtle psychological tactics to shape consumer decisions, influencing everything from impulse buys to brand loyalty. Understanding these techniques can help shoppers make more informed, intentional choices.

The Science Behind Online Shopping Behavior

E-commerce platforms leverage principles of behavioral psychology, such as scarcity, social proof, and cognitive biases, to encourage purchases. Digital storefronts are designed to keep users engaged, emotionally connected, and more likely to buy – often without realizing they’ve been influenced.

Manipulative Strategies Used by Websites

Scarcity Tactics

You’ve seen it before. That little red warning—”Only 2 left in stock!” or the countdown clock ticking ominously next to “Limited-time offer!” It’s designed to make you panic, to convince you that if you don’t act now, you’ll miss out forever. And for a split second, it works. You start justifying the purchase before you even think about whether you actually want it.

This whole trick taps into FOMO—Fear Of Missing Out. It’s not just a marketing gimmick; it’s psychological warfare. The idea is to short-circuit your rational decision-making so you commit before weighing the pros and cons. And look, sometimes you genuinely do need to act fast. Concert tickets sell out, discontinued products disappear. But the thing is, most of the time? It’s a manufactured sense of urgency designed to override common sense.

So next time you see one of these little warnings, pause for a second. Take a breath. Ask yourself: “Would I be buying this if I didn’t feel rushed?” Nine times out of ten, the answer is no.Scarcity – or the perception of it – is super underrated as a decision-maker. But it’s one of the biggest reasons why we buy almost everything for the price that we do – on the day that we do.

Personalization & Targeted Ads

Using data analytics brands personalize shopping experiences based on browsing history. Seeing products tailored to past searches or interests makes consumers more likely to feel they need an item – even if they hadn’t initially planned to buy it.

Anchoring & Price Framing

Websites use anchoring techniques by displaying a higher “original” price next to a discounted price, making the deal seem irresistible – even if the markdown is artificially inflated. Flash sales and crossed-out pricing create an illusion of savings that triggers impulse buying. There’s a lot of that on Black Friday, as we all know. Many companies inflate their prices some time before Black Friday – then appear to “heavily discount” their products on the day.

Social Proof & Influencer Marketing

Ratings, reviews, and influencer endorsements validate purchases, making consumers feel more confident in their decisions. Seeing that an item is “bestselling” or has thousands of positive reviews taps into herd mentality, reinforcing the belief that buying the product is a smart choice.

Gamification & Rewards Systems

Ever notice how shopping starts feeling like some kind of game? Not just the “hunt for the best deal” type of thing, but the way loyalty programs keep dangling rewards just out of reach. Spend a little more, and suddenly free shipping unlocks. Hit a certain threshold, and you get a discount—but only if you go a bit further.

It’s not random. These programs tap into the little dopamine hit you get when you “win” something. The goal isn’t just to reward loyal customers—it’s to keep you engaged, nudging you to spend more than you planned. And honestly? Sometimes it’s worth it. If you were going to buy something anyway, a discount or free shipping can be nice. But if you ever find yourself adding stuff to your cart just to hit a milestone, that’s when it’s working exactly as intended.

Might be worth pausing before that final checkout click. Ask yourself if you’re buying something because you need it—or because you feel like you’re about to “win” something.

How to Shop More Intentionally

  • Pause Before Buying – Take a step back and evaluate whether a purchase is a true necessity or an impulsive reaction to manipulative tactics.
  • Compare Prices Independently – Look beyond the store’s framing to ensure discounts are genuine.
  • Limit Personalized Tracking – Use ad blockers, incognito mode, or privacy settings to reduce targeted marketing influence.
  • Read Reviews Thoughtfully – Prioritize detailed, balanced reviews rather than simply trusting high ratings.
  • Set Shopping Limits – Avoid overspending by defining a monthly budget or shopping list in advance.

Online shopping is super-convenient, but consumers should stay aware of psychological triggers that influence potential spending-sprees.

By recognizing manipulation and being mindful in shopping habits, shoppers can take control of their purchasing decisions, and make smarter, more intentional choices online. (Well – at least for now – until *actual* online hypnosis/mind control is invented… 😉

 

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Social Engineering Scams

How They Work and How to Protect Yourself

Cybercriminals are getting better, not in a technical sense, but in how well they can manipulate people. Social engineering isn’t about hacking systems; it’s about hacking you – your instincts, your trust, your sense of urgency. These scams don’t break in through security loopholes; they walk right in because someone let them.

The Psychology Behind Social Engineering

Ever had one of those moments where you’re rushing and someone asks for a quick favor? Maybe a colleague asks for login credentials to “check something,” or a convincing email tells you to verify your bank account right now because of suspicious activity. That urgency isn’t random – it’s intentional. Scammers create pressure so you react before you think.

They also tap into trust. A message from your CEO? Your IT department? A family member in trouble? You don’t second-guess people you know – or at least, that’s what they count on.

How You Can Stay a Step Ahead

Here’s the reality: No legitimate request ever needs an instant response. If something feels rushed, that’s your first red flag. Take a breath, verify and don’t let urgency override common sense.

And those links in emails or texts? Even if they look official, always go directly to the company’s website instead of clicking. Scammers are really good at making fake login pages look real – until you’ve handed over your credentials.

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is your best friend here. Even if someone does get your password, MFA adds a second layer that makes it harder for attackers to gain access.

The biggest mistake isn’t being uninformed; it’s assuming it won’t happen to you. Social engineering works because it feels personal – and it’s constantly evolving. Stay skeptical, slow down and question any request that feels even a little off.

At the end of the day, staying safe online isn’t about perfect security – it’s about making things just difficult enough that scammers give up and move on.

 

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Yomura opens datacenter in Seattle, WA

Yomura expands into Houston, TX

25th July 2023, Yomura, America’s Net Neutral ISP, announce the opening of a new datacenter in Seattle, WA.

The new Tier 3 datacenter has been engineered to offer N+1 Power (UPS/Generator) and HVAC.

A Tier 3 data center offers redundant power and cooling, enabling maintenance without downtime, ensuring 99.999% uptime.

The datacenter directly connects to Yomura’s US transit network connecting the datacenter directly into the heart of Vancouver, Portland, San Francisco and Los Angeles. Local diverse dark fiber ensure ample capacity to Westin Building Exchange, and SDC Seattle.

  • Reliable power, cooling & 24/7 security
  • Compliance with MPAA, HIPAA & SOX
  • Flexible rack space
  • Expert on-site support
  • Competitive pricing from $1,500/month

For more information on Yomura’s datacenter services, please click here

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Are VPNs Worth Using?

The Pros and Cons of Online Anonymity

If you’ve spent more than five minutes on the internet you’ve probably seen ads about how a VPNs protect your privacy. But are they really all that? The short answer: They help, but they’re not bulletproof.

What a VPN Actually Does (and Where It Helps)

A VPN encrypts your internet traffic. So if you’re on public Wi-Fi (for example an airport, coffee shop or hotel), it keeps anyone lurking on the same network from snooping on what you’re doing. It also masks your IP address so websites and advertisers have a harder time tracking you – at least directly. If you hate the feeling of being followed around the web by ads for something you casually Googled once, a VPN can help cut down on that nonsense.

The Tradeoffs (Because Nothing’s Perfect)

VPNs aren’t a fix-all for online security, though. For one, they slow down your connection – some barely, others significantly. Free VPNs especially tend to be sluggish, and worse, some of them actually track and sell your data (which kind of defeats the purpose). Also, just because your browsing data is encrypted doesn’t mean you’re immune to malware or phishing scams – so if you click on sketchy links, a VPN won’t save you.

Should You Get One?

If you use public Wi-Fi often, yes – a good VPN adds an extra layer of protection. But if you’re mostly just worried about privacy, your best bet is a mix of things: strong passwords, avoiding suspicious websites, and maybe tossing in a VPN for good measure.

 

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Environmental Considerations Before Upgrading

The Upgrade Might Not Be Worth It

There’s always that moment. You see the announcement, watch the ad, maybe even skim a few early reviews. And suddenly, your perfectly perfect phone feels… outdated. A little slower, a little less exciting. Maybe the camera isn’t as crisp, maybe the battery isn’t as efficient. The new model? It’s promising everything you didn’t know you needed. But let’s slow down for a second.

Ask yourself: Is my current device actually struggling, or am I just feeling a little tech envy? If your phone still loads apps without making you want to throw it at a wall, if your laptop still boots up without an eternity of spinning wheels, then… what’s really driving the urge to upgrade? Because, let’s be real – some of these “game-changing” features don’t change the game that much. Sometimes, what feels like progress is really just clever marketing.

The True Cost Beyond the Price Tag

Let’s talk money. Upgrades aren’t cheap, and that annual cycle of must-have devices adds up fast. A slightly better camera or a minor speed boost might not be worth the price of admission, especially when last year’s model still works just fine.

And then there’s the bigger problem – waste. Every new gadget means raw materials, energy for manufacturing, and eventually, another chunk of e-waste when your “old” device gets tossed aside. Hanging onto what you have a little longer? It’s a small decision, but one that actually does some good. Less waste, less unnecessary spending, less feeding the endless upgrade machine.

Choose Thoughtfully

Upgrading isn’t always bad. Sometimes you really do need new tech. But maybe next time you get that itch, sit with it for a while. Is your current device holding you back, or are you just chasing something shiny? Because there’s something oddly satisfying about keeping a perfectly good device running just a little longer.

It’s a small, quiet rebellion against the idea that “new” always means “better.”

 

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Yomura opens datacenter in Dallas, TX

January 12th 2023, Yomura, America’s Net Neutral ISP, announce the opening of a new datacenter in Dallas, TX.

The new Tier 3 datacenter has been engineered to offer N+1 Power (UPS/Generator) and HVAC.

A Tier 3 data center offers redundant power and cooling, enabling maintenance without downtime, ensuring 99.999% uptime.

The datacenter connects to Yomura’s US transit network connecting the datacenter directly to Miami, FL; El Paso, NM and Atlanta, GA. Local diverse dark fiber ensure ample capacity to Infomart building.

  • Reliable power, cooling & 24/7/365 security
  • Compliance with MPAA, HIPAA & SOX
  • Flexible rack space
  • Expert on-site support
  • Competitive pricing from $1,500/month/rack

For more information on Yomura’s datacenter services, please click here

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Understanding Internet Addiction

Internet Addiction

Recognizing the Signs and How to Help

Understanding Internet Addiction

Kids are spending more time than ever online, but exactly where is the boundary between healthy learning and socialising and unhealthy compulsion?

To keep things balanced, establish screen time limits and stay strong when faced with young, determined negotiators! It’s been said 100 times, but I’ll say it again; encourage offline activities like sports or family game nights. Open conversations with your children about their online habits can help you understand how they’re spending their time – as well as help you identify any potential issues early on.

Safe Online

Kids aren’t born with the intuition to know who should and shouldn’t have access to their personal information. So It’s a good idea to teach them to not share their home address, phone number, or school name – especially in chat rooms or social media. It’s super easy to forget, but it matters. Also, try teaching them to use strong passwords and to not reuse them for everything. Once they realise that keeping their account private is actually a smart move, you’re winning. Just taking a few minutes to look through the app’s privacy settings with your child can seriously help to keep them safer online.

Empowering Kids to Report and Handle Issues

What about empowering children to report online problems? It might seem obvious to you, but it can be surprisingly unobvious to kids that they should come to you if something weird happens online. Having had a conversation with you about how to block or report users that make them feel uncomfortable will make it so much less of a big deal if it should happen.
And if, additionally, they feel that their caregiver knows exactly how to block users, they will probably come to you as soon as it happens.

Many platforms have built-in features for reporting abuse. It could be useful to explore these together. Online experiences are never predictable but you’re taking positive steps towards better safety online.

External Resources

The links contained below may direct you to external websites that are not under our control. While we strive to provide only links to useful and ethical websites, we have no control over the content and nature of these external sites. These links to other websites do not imply a recommendation for all content found on these sites.

Yomura Fiber, its affiliates, subsidiaries and parent organisations:

  • Make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or authenticity of the information contained on any external websites linked from this site
  • Take no responsibility for, and will not be liable for, the content, privacy practices, or availability of any linked websites
  • Cannot guarantee that these links will work all the time and have no control over the availability of linked pages
  • Are not responsible for any products, services, or material obtained through these third-party website

Please be aware that when you leave our website, our policies regarding privacy and content no longer apply. We encourage you to review the privacy policies and terms of service of every website you visit.

By using this website, you acknowledge and agree that accessing third-party sites is at your own risk and subject to the third party’s terms and policies.

1. Common Sense Media: Tech Addiction Guide
This nonprofit organization offers evidence-based guides for parents on managing screen time, recognizing addiction warning signs, and implementing healthy digital habits. Their parent portal includes age-specific recommendations and practical tools.
https://www.commonsensemedia.org/technology-addiction

2. American Academy of Pediatrics: Family Media Plan
The AAP provides a customizable tool that helps families create personalized plans for healthy media use. It includes guidance on setting screen time limits, designating media-free zones, and balancing online and offline activities.
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/media/Pages/default.aspx

3. Children and Screens Institute
This interdisciplinary research organization offers science-backed resources specifically focused on children’s digital media use and potential addiction. They provide webinars, toolkits, and practical strategies based on current research.
https://www.childrenandscreens.com/resources/

4. The Center for Internet and Technology Addiction
Founded by Dr. David Greenfield, a leading expert in internet addiction, this organization provides assessment tools, educational resources, and treatment options specifically for families dealing with digital dependency issues.
https://virtual-addiction.com/resources-for-parents/

5. ConnectSafely
This parent-focused resource offers practical guides on managing screen time, recognizing problematic internet use, and fostering digital citizenship. Their parent guides cover various platforms and technologies that children commonly use.
https://www.connectsafely.org/parentguides/