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#119985 - 05/04/06 03:04 PM HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS  
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Joe Offline
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
LCD Response Time is not the same as CRT Refresh Rate. LCD response time is a measure of how long it takes an LCD pixel to turn on or off; a 16ms or lower response time is good for gaming. The refresh rate on a CRT is a measure of how many times per second the entire image is redrawn on the monitor glass. For CRTs, the higher the refresh rate the better (to avoid flickering). For LCDs, a refresh rate of 60 Hz is recommended, and this value has no effect on the displayed image.

If you want to create a dual-boot system with Windows 98 and Windows XP, you must install Windows 98 first. Each OS must be installed on its own hard drive partition.

HARDWARE TROUBLESHOOTING & DIAGNOSTICS
Testing memory: Memtest86+
Testing CPU/memory stability: Prime95
Overall system evaluation: SiSoft SANDRA
CPU/memory/motherboard information: CPU-Z
System monitoring: Motherboard Monitor & SpeedFan
Power calculations: Overclockulator

Hard drive diagnostic utilities are available from your hard drive manufacturer's website.

To test your power supply (PSU), disconnect all connections to your computer hardware and use a paperclip to short the green pin on the 20/24-pin ATX connector to any black pin. This will start the power supply and turn its fan. It is not good for your power supply to retain this condition for a length of time, but it is good for a quick test.

Be aware that not all power supplies are created equal. Lesser-known and no-name brands will rarely supply their rated power.
Avoid PSUs from the following manufacturers: Deer, Allied, FoxConn, Powmax, Raidmax
Buy PSUs from the following manufacturers: Antec, PC Power & Cooling, Seasonic, Sparkle, Fortron, Enermax, Tagan


BENCHMARKING
3DMark 2001
3DMark 2003
3DMark 2005
3DMark 2006
PCMark 2005
HDTach


---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


ALTERNATIVE BROWSING
FireFox
Opera

ANTI-SPYWARE / ANTI-VIRUS
Adaware SE Personal
Spybot - Search & Destroy
Windows Defender
Avast!
AVG
TrendMicro housecall (online scan)


---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


DEDICATED HARDWARE NEWS AND REVIEWS
Ars Technica
Anandtech
HardOCP
Tom\'s Hardware

DEDICATED HARDWARE FORUMS
HardOCP
Overclockers.com
Anandtech

BRAND_SPECIFIC FORUMS
Abit
DFI
MSI


BRICK & MORTAR HARDWARE LISTINGS
salescircular.com

ONLINE HARDWARE RETAILERS, US
Newegg
Directron
ZipZoomFly
MWave
TankGuys
HeatSink Factory
SV Compucycle
Sidewinder Computer Systems
SilenX
Azatek

ONLINE HARDWARE RETAILERS, UK
dabs
Komplett
Maplin
Micro Direct
PC World
Aria
Chillblast
Ebuyer
Kustom PCs
Misco
Overclock.co.uk
Over-clock.co.uk
Scan.co.uk
Tekheads
TheCoolingShop
Overclockers.co.uk

ONLINE HARDWARE RETAILERS, Canada
NCIX


BUILDING A NEW PC
Tom\'s Hardware building guide
Ars Technica Budget Box
Ars Technica "Hot Rod" (fast gaming rig)
Anandtech buyer\'s guide
Build Your Own PC
Silent PC review

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


VIDEO CARD DRIVERS & UTILITIES
The Guru of 3D
Powerstrip
RivaTuner
nHancer (nVidia only)
Coolbits (nVidia only)
3D chipset specs

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


dead pixel finder

Inline advert (2nd and 3rd post)

#119986 - 05/04/06 04:50 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS  
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Tristan Offline
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Wow! Great index; thanks, Joe.


Anything can happen on the way to Leidsdorp.
#119987 - 05/04/06 07:16 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS  
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Joe Offline
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updated

#119988 - 05/04/06 09:25 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS  
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Gatticus Offline
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ONLINE HARDWARE RETAILERS, Canada/US

http://www.ncix.com


"Electronic music should have freed the masses from the limitations of fretboards and fixed-pitch instruments. But apparently some missed the memo..." --thegibsonian
#119989 - 05/05/06 01:54 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS  
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speedbump Offline
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Edgewood TX
http://overclockulator.pimprig.com/
Overclockulator 1.36 for PSU calculations. Glad to see the new sticky, Joe.

#119990 - 05/07/06 06:37 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS  
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Holland
Some more links :

Guru3d.com many drivers, beta drivers and utillities for your graphics card

http://www.tweakers.net Dutch hardware site. (for the Dutch amongst us) (very comprehensive)


specs: AMD Phenom II X6 1090T 3,2GHz, 16GB DDR3 2 x XFX Radeon 6870 2GB Crossfire, OZC Vertex 2 120GB, 2 x 2TB Samsung Spinpoint 7200RPm
#119991 - 05/08/06 11:35 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS  
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Mr B Offline
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The definitive graphics card specs page:
http://users.erols.com/chare/video.htm

#119992 - 05/08/06 12:15 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS  
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Revvin Offline
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Overclockers.co.uk is a popular online shop here in the UK.

#119993 - 05/10/06 06:32 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS  
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How can you leave out arstechnica.com ?!

#119994 - 05/11/06 01:23 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS  
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For those wanting to build a quiet PC
http://www.silentpcreview.com/


"Electronic music should have freed the masses from the limitations of fretboards and fixed-pitch instruments. But apparently some missed the memo..." --thegibsonian
#119995 - 05/13/06 09:01 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS  
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Gatticus Offline
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Quote:
Originally posted by Mr B:
The definitive graphics card specs page:
http://users.erols.com/chare/video.htm
That's a handy list and I have seen it before but the guy has got it wrong here.

# Radeon X1900 XTX
# GF 7900 GTX

The X1900XTX is slightly faster than the 7900GTX.


"Electronic music should have freed the masses from the limitations of fretboards and fixed-pitch instruments. But apparently some missed the memo..." --thegibsonian
#119996 - 05/20/06 10:28 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS  
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speedbump Offline
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Dead pixel finder, works great.
http://www.astris.com/dpl/

#119997 - 06/05/06 01:33 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS  
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Lifer
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Yeah awesome idea Joe.

#119998 - 06/07/06 04:59 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS  
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I Fought Diablo
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The Lone Star State
I downloaded speedfan to my old Dell Pent II and got a temperature reading of 4 celsius (40 degrees)



"everything lives by a law, a central balance sustains all"
#119999 - 07/04/06 04:09 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS  
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Gatticus Offline
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This thread was showing 13 replies so had to make it 14 as 13 is just unlucky. \:\)

Here's how to get a 3D desktop running in Ubuntu Dapper on Nvidia cards for those interested.

http://ubuntuguide.org/wiki/Dapper#How_to_install_Xgl.2FCompiz_.28Nvidia.29


"Electronic music should have freed the masses from the limitations of fretboards and fixed-pitch instruments. But apparently some missed the memo..." --thegibsonian
#120000 - 07/24/06 11:12 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS  
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Davros Offline
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ps: how about a list of free firewalls ?


SimHq's Resident Gaming God
#120001 - 08/22/06 02:32 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS  
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Joe Offline
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updated (sorry for the long delay)

#120002 - 08/22/06 02:44 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS  
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Davros Offline
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heres a free firewall
http://www.personalfirewall.comodo.com/
+ of course everyone knows about zonealarm


SimHq's Resident Gaming God
#120003 - 09/07/06 08:27 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS  
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Gatticus Offline
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Here's another free firewall. You get full version for 30days then it downgrades to free version if you don't buy it.


http://www.kerio.com/kwf_home.html

This one is more than just a firewall, it's more like a net nanny with firewall.

http://www.netveda.com/consumer/safetynet.htm

This one is free but can be a bit daunting to set up.

http://www.agnitum.com/products/outpostfree/download.php


"Electronic music should have freed the masses from the limitations of fretboards and fixed-pitch instruments. But apparently some missed the memo..." --thegibsonian
#120004 - 09/10/06 03:26 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS  
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Gatticus Offline
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Buyers Guide For PC Systems

This list is updated every month and has three levels of systems. Budget Box, Hot Rod and God Box.

http://arstechnica.com/guides/buyer/system-guide-200608.ars


"Electronic music should have freed the masses from the limitations of fretboards and fixed-pitch instruments. But apparently some missed the memo..." --thegibsonian
#2333702 - 09/08/07 08:41 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Gatticus]  
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Mick Offline
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Here's a little gem that I always use. SIW, very similar to Sisoft Sandra, except it's a freebie.

http://www.gtopala.com/


If Salvador Dali had a PC, Would it have a surreal port?
#2357339 - 10/13/07 08:05 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Mick]  
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Lifer
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Take almost all the above links and toss them into one site....here ya go

http://www.majorgeeks.com/downloads2.html

#2620553 - 11/21/08 01:25 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Stormtrooper]  
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NYC


Apple Macbook Pro Generation 10.1 (Summer 2012)
15", 2880x1800 IPS Samsung Display
2.3 Ghz Intel Core i7-3615QM
8GB DDR3 Memory
1GB Nvidia GT-650M
256GB SSD
#2930294 - 12/31/09 03:41 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: JAS39]  
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bump

Anandtech Forums: "The LCD Thread"
http://forums.anandtech.com/showthread.php?t=39226

Table of Contents
i. Preface
ii. Conventions
iii. Primer
I. Panel Types
II. Technology and Limitations
III. Multimedia LCDs/Input Options
IV. Specifications
V. Recommendations (Post II)
VI. Using Your LCD
Appendix A. A Few Words About "Panel Lotteries"
Appendix B. Additional Resources
Appendix C. LCD Module Manufacturers
Appendix D. Issues with Specific Models
Appendix E. Glossy LCDs Listing

#3010939 - 05/12/10 09:16 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Gatticus]  
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I can't find a "search" function for these forums..have I missed something?


Aim at perfection. Even if you miss 'tis better than aiming at imperfection and succeeding.
My Rig:
O/S: Windows 7
Chasis: ThermalTake Kandalf LCS (liquid cooled)
MB: XFX nForce 790I Ultra SLI
CPU: Intel Core 2 Duo E8500 3.15GHz
Power: 1000W Cooler Master
RAM: 4gig Corsair DDR3 SDRAM 1600MHz
Video: 4gig DDR3 Nvidia 9800 GX2 in Quad SLI.
Storage: 120gig, 500gig, 150gig
Monitor: HP 2710
Thrustmaster Warthog and MFDs, TrackIR 5
#3214658 - 02/22/11 11:02 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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FlashHeart Offline
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I have just bought a P8P67 board based system and was on the point of returning the PSU and VGA crad when I found the following thread:

http://www.overclock.net/intel-motherboards/910402-asus-p67-series-information-thread-drivers.html

All the resources you will ever need (and updated) on page 1 and then 144 pages of discussion of the various problems and their resolution.

Believe me, if you buy a board with this chipset, you will almost certainly need this info. The one I bought that arrived last Friday had BIOS v1003 on it - the current is v1305 - so you can see how old it is, with around half a dozen updates in between.

BIOS flashing in the new EFI BIOS is very very simple. It's a matter of clicking on the EZ Flash update button, then simply browsing to the BIOS ROM image on your PC and clicking on it (just like in Explorer - only its from the BIOS itself).

Don't be disheartened by the number of pages in that thread - my issues were resolved by the time I got to page 14.

And now I am very happy with my awesome system! thumbsup

Asus P8P67 Pro
Intel i5 2500K SandyBridge
Corsair XMS3 DDR3 1600 6GB
Gigabyte GTX560Ti OC
Corsair ModXStream 700W psu
HAF922 case
Big GRIN! biggrin


Flash


"The way you keep forgeting things, you'd think you'd remember"
- my wife
#3214718 - 02/22/11 12:53 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Frugalite & P-38 fan
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The Netherlands

#3852288 - 10/21/13 06:52 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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RAF_Roy Offline
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So. California - U.S.A.
GEGeek - PC Tech Reference
http://www.gegeek.com/

GEGeek Tech Toolkit - Have all your Tech Related Apps running from a
USB⁄Flash drive and never have to re-install them again. Never!
http://www.gegeek.com/documents/85BB69B2F05486B9332CEA18B8D6E4BE690ADA38.html




And my own new small site (under construction) has useful security information you should know:

http://www.badarray.com/security.html


Roy's || Tally Ho Pages
#3855456 - 10/29/13 05:01 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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RAF_Roy Offline
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PAE problem timesaver tip:

Deciding which OS to run after Windows XP support expires in april 2014 with your old laptop? Well I am too.

When shopping be sure to check the release notes to see if it needs your CPU to have PAE capability.

Physical Address Extensions, or PAE are not supported in most 400 MHz-bus versions of the Pentium M
Exactly what I have, although its a Celeron M on a Dell laptop!
(btw it isnt's VT capable either which means I can't use any recent VMWare either)

Why its important is in choosing the Linux or BSD or other, you will need to know what the build supports. Otherwise you get all settled on a distro only to find out its the wrong distro or build for your CPU.

Meaning = you can't use it!

To quote wikipedia page below, in the Linux section:
Quote:
A PAE-enabled Linux kernel requires that the CPU also support PAE. The Linux kernel supports PAE as a build option and major distributions provide a PAE kernel either as the default or as an option. As of 2009,[19] some common Linux distributions have started to use a PAE-enabled kernel as the distribution-specific default.[19] As of 2012, common Linux distributions have stopped distributing non-PAE kernels, thus making PAE hardware mandatory - examples being Red Hat Enterprise Linux / CentOS from version 6.0, Ubuntu (and derivatives like Linux Mint) from 12.10.[20] Fedora and Debian still distribute both PAE and non-PAE kernels.

Also some BSD other OS you better check this first.
Read:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Physical_Address_Extension

Now, you need to know how to check your CPU, read this:

http://www.itechtics.com/how-to-check-if...espeed=noscript

So then you know you go to get the coreinfo utility at:
http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinternals/cc835722

to run that open a command prompt, type:
coreinfo
and it will output to the (dos)command window
or to put output to a text file do:
coreinfo >corenfo.txt

if you see this, like I have:
Code:
PAE       	-	Supports > 32-bit physical addresses


No * in the output = means NOT. It does NOT support PAE. Sorry.

Sad because it rules out Lubuntu 13.04 which might be a good replacement for XP (Can still use 12.04 but not sure if I want to do that)

Also, note that Windows 8 will only run on processors which support PAE, in addition to NX and SSE2.
(Not that that matters to me, since I would never use Windows 8 by choice, and it would never run on an old laptop like this anyway)

The Intel Processor ID utility (google it) does not specify PAE, so this is hard to figure out, unless you know this.

I'm a trained PC Tech and do some programming and did not realize this. Yes I know how to use BSD and Linux so its not a big issue to me to find another distro, but glad I saw this in the Lubuntu release notes.

So hopefully this post saves someone some time.

p.s. http://distrowatch.com/ is a good place to start if you are looking for a Linux or BSD distribution.

Last edited by RAF_Roy; 10/29/13 05:07 AM. Reason: grammar

Roy's || Tally Ho Pages
#3909128 - 02/08/14 09:00 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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RAF_Roy Offline
EAW Bodger
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So. California - U.S.A.
Burn a 'live' .iso to usb (usually for booting Linux or a rescue tool disk, gparted or etc) stick or thumbdrive tip:

use rufus - http://rufus.akeo.ie/

use checkbox 'create a bootable disk using' - ISO image - then browse icon to the .iso location
keep defaults for other settings generally. FAT32 usually.


It takes only about 20 -30 minutes or less and you're done (for say a 2 - 4 GB image)

There is also unetbootin - http://unetbootin.sourceforge.net/ it has more abilitites.
However, here is what I found; it annoyingly took up to 7 hours for the same disk..!
Maybe I had the wrong settings and it downloaded the stuff I needed (Linux).. which it can do.
But I was not intending that, but I was stuck doing some 'musical pc's and drives chairs' so to speak and at the time I did not wish to abort.

Both of these small tools don't have a lot of details on their use in the interface, but they are standards now.



Last edited by RAF_Roy; 02/08/14 09:05 PM.

Roy's || Tally Ho Pages
#4301215 - 10/06/16 07:42 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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FsFOOT Offline
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New Linux How To - Tutorial is up!

Got Mint? How I got Linux Mint 18 Mate edition Installed, saving my Laptop by making it a Dual-Boot

oh and to burn a cd or dvd .iso to USB on Windows use Win32 Disk Imager Its the easiest program ever.
Just
1 - insert the USB in Windows
2 - with windows format it with fat32
3 - Run Win32 Disk Imager, select the .iso image from your disk
4 - select the USB drive
5 - Burn and you're done.

Using this it made a USB bootable disk from the Linux Mint 18 Mate 64 bit bootable DVD .iso
which I then used to install Linux on a UEFI system.

#4309784 - 11/07/16 04:55 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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FsFOOT Offline
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Disable Nvidia Telemetry tracking on Windows

In the case of Nvidia, Telemetry gets installed alongside the driver package. While you may -- and should -- customize the installation of the Nvidia driver so that only the bits that you require are installed, there is no option to disable the Telemetry components from being installed. These do get installed even if you only install the graphics driver itself in the custom installation dialog.

#4314983 - 11/24/16 08:22 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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FsFOOT Offline
Member
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The Robolinux Stealth VM Software for Ubuntu

Robolinux, a distribution project designed to ease the transition from Windows to Linux with the help of a pre-configured VirtualBox addition running Windows XP or Windows 7, has released installable DEB files for Ubuntu and Linux Mint Stealth VM For Ubuntu & derivatives these packages provide an easy-to-use wizard for installing a licensed copy of Windows that would run in a virtual environment alongside Linux: "What many Windows XP users want to do is run Windows applications inside Ubuntu or their Ubuntu derivative.
In a few clicks the Windows XP or Windows 7 virtual machine is instantly built and fully configured and ready to go. Then you simply load your Windows disk and programs.

#4330031 - 01/20/17 09:01 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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FsFOOT Offline
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Posts: 602
MediCat DVD is a bootable troubleshooting environment that ships with Linux and Windows boot environments, and troubleshooting tools.

MediCat DVD comes in four different flavors;

MediCat DVD -- This is the name giving distribution. It includes the PortableApps Suite, Linux boot environments and a full working mini Windows 10 WinPE Boot Environment.
MediaCat DVD Naked -- Like MediCat DVD, but without the PortableApps Suite.
Mini Windows 10 x64 -- Windows 10 WinPE Boot Environment, and PortableApps Suite.
Mini Windows 10 x64 Naked -- Like the one above, but without the PortableApps Suite.

The main distribution, MediCat DVD as a size of 7.5 Gigabytes. The naked variant size of 5.05 GB, the Windows 10 x64 distribution 3.94 GB, and naked Windows 10 distribution 1.47 Gigabyte.

The main menu displays various options. You can start one of the bootable operating systems included with the distribution, or access diagnostic, repair and troubleshooting tools instead that MediCat ships with.


64-Bit windows Recovery: Choice of Microsoft or Easy Recovery options for Windows 10, Windows 8.1 and Windows 7.
Hard Disk Tools: includes currently Acronis TrueImage 2017, GParted, Norton Ghost 11.5, Paragon Hard Disk Manager, PloP Boot Manager, SpinRite, SuperGrubDisk, Darik's Boot and Nuke.
Diagnostic Utilities: includes currently Hardware Detection Tool Memtest86+, TestDisk / PhotoRec / LiliPad, Ultimate Boot Cd.
Scan for Viruses: this launches Comodo Rescue Disk currently only.
Remove User Account Passwords: Active Password Changer, Daossoft Windows Password Rescuer, Offline NT Password & Registry Editor, PCUnlocker, Boot Kon-Boot CD.

You may boot in any of the available operating systems.

https://gbatemp.net/threads/medicat-dvd-a-multiboot-linux-dvd.361577/

#4334491 - 02/03/17 09:23 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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FsFOOT Offline
Member
FsFOOT  Offline
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Firefox 52: how to keep on using plugins

from ghacks;
http://www.ghacks.net/2017/02/03/firefox-52-how-to-keep-on-plugins/

'Firefox 52 will be the first release version of the Mozilla Firefox web browser that will ship without support for NPAPI plugins.
The only exception is that Firefox 52 will support Adobe Flash.

You may want to block updates of Firefox 51.x to avoid being upgraded to Firefox 52.
It is not really advised as it means that security updates won't become available.

Provided that you want to stay with Firefox, the best course of action at the time is to switch from Firefox Stable to Firefox ESR before the update to Firefox 52.
Firefox 52.0 ESR will be released alongside Firefox 52.0. This is good news for anyone requiring plugins, as Firefox 52.0 ESR will continue to support plugins whereas Firefox 52.0 won't.
A full Extended Support Release cycle lasts seven full releases. This means that you will be able to use plugins in Firefox ESR until March 2018.
Another option that you have is to install a Firefox ESR release next to Firefox Stable, and use it exclusively for sites and services that require plugins."
'
Code:
Step 1: Update channel-prefs.js

First thing you do is update the file channel-prefs.js. You find the file in the Firefox installation directory on your system.

The default installation directories are

    32-bit Firefox Windows -- C:\Program Files (x86)\Mozilla Firefox\
    64-bit Firefox Windows -- C:\Program Files\Mozilla Firefox\
    Linux -- /usr/lib/firefox-version
    Mac Os X -- /Applications/Firefox.app

You find the file under defaults\prefs\, 
e.g. C:\Program Files (x86)\Mozilla Firefox\defaults\prefs\channel-prefs.js

Open the file in a plain text editor, and replace the line

pref("app.update.channel", "release");

with

pref("app.update.channel", "esr");
Step 2: Modify update-settings.ini

firefox without plugins solution

The second file that you need to modify is update-settings.ini. It is located in the root folder of the Firefox installation, e.g. C:\Program Files (x86)\Mozilla Firefox.

Change the line

ACCEPTED_MAR_CHANNEL_IDS=firefox-mozilla-release

to

ACCEPTED_MAR_CHANNEL_IDS=firefox-mozilla-esr

and save the file.

'

'Mike notes that you should make the change as close to the release of Firefox 52 ESR as possible. The release is on March 7, 2017.

Another option that you have is to install Firefox ESR directly on your system, and start using it. The new installation will pick up the profile that you used up until now.

Please note though that Firefox 45.x ESR may not support certain features yet that Mozilla implemented in Firefox 46 to 51. Some add-ons or features may not be yet available because of the nature of ESR releases.'

Last edited by FsFOOT; 02/03/17 09:25 PM.
#4336704 - 02/12/17 11:24 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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-- from gHacks;
"
A comprehensive list of Firefox privacy and security settings
http://www.ghacks.net/2015/08/18/a-comprehensive-list-of-firefox-privacy-and-security-settings/

Ghacks.net Firefox privacy and security user.js 0.11 is out
http://www.ghacks.net/2017/02/12/ghacks-net-firefox-user-js-config-0-11-is-out/

.."The privacy and security list

You can download the most recent version of the list..

Alternatively, you may load a custom HTML version of the list: User.js Light or User.js Dark, and load the changelog directly as well.

Make sure you check the changelog"
-------
-------

Aside from that (Privacy settings) I prefer to set about : config by hand rather than DL a .js file.
Also that version has a ton of refernces urls, very nice wink
I use the html version for reference:
light (white webpage background) or I prefer the dark version: w colored fonts, very nice.
http://www.ghacks.net/files/user.js%20[ghacks]-0.11-dark.html


btw; Like that html and css (webpage code) very much. I do html4 and css2 mostly by hand.

--
OT//(Actually I use add-on "Privacy Settings"
http://firefox.add0n.com/privacy-settings.html
it has most of these can set and switch various modes for security and/or privacy or compatibility with amouse click
This add-on is not real well known. I found out about it from a reference of a very good security programmer. It is great!
--
Im using firefox 51.0.1 - Linux 64, add-ons; NoScript, RequestPolicy Continued, HTTPS Everywhere, Privacy Settings..
..and UBlock Origin and UMatrix.
Also looking at Decentraleyes which is a great concept I think.

Last edited by FsFOOT; 02/22/17 07:53 AM. Reason: updated stuff I'm using
#4339857 - 02/23/17 11:10 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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How To Boot a Linux Mint or Ubuntu (and other Linux) iso from a hard disk. Especially to install the Distribution.

You can also use this method for a sort of do-it-yourself Docker type thing. Or Multiboot system or cloner backup / restorer to system for system .iso images.

  • ^^Prerequisite - Und Warnung!
    1. A mbr system is required for this method.
    2. This method assumes you either already have modern GRUB2 (not legacy Grub) installed Or want to install it - on which case you can further read-up on it and adapt the method very easily.)
    3. You do not have an EFi / UEFI / Secure Boot or other system
      While you can boot a bootble disk image .iso on an EFI system it requires another method and more reading !
    4. You have a bootable and installable Distribution Disk .iso
      (Although you can simply use this method to boot a 'Live" disk if its Live capable you do not have to install.)
      Also you can create your own disk (advanced and not described here!)
    5. Super GRUB2 Disk . Personally I used the SystemRescueCd disk which has Super GRUB2 Disk as floppy image on it. But I don't describe that. As its a bit hard to find the tool on the disk to launch it - (look for super floppy boot or something?).
    6. A Second Hard disk drive, aka.. HDD aka Secondary disk. If you want to install.



Background:
Having an old extra PC with a Pentium 4 CPU Intel 845 Chipset circa 2000 . This is an legacy system that uses mbr to boot, Not! new technologies like
GPT (GUID Partition Table) , EFI , UEFI or Secure Boot.
I had a hard time putting the Linux Distribution* I want on it since I don't have a working DVD reader / player for it . But it does had a CD. But I want a newer Distribution that only comes on DVD size. (I do not want a 'net install', btw.)
I can use It does have USB and can boot USB however this particular PC has a quirky bios configuration does not allow a OS that boots from USB to be installed on the primary disk. Although the running OS or programs like disk partition tools such as Gparted, etc. can access the disk.
On this old PC;
The method for booting a bootable* Linux .iso image that is simply (i.e.. previously downloaded to) stored on the hard disk does work (see below) .
However when booting from an .iso stored on the primary hard disk drive (not matter what partition while partition manager tools like Gparted etc. can access the disk and redo partitions on the primary disk.
But the caveat is that those partition tables cannot be written to the disk since the .iso is mounted. It has to be umounted. That cannot be done since to umount the disk would mean severe the connection to the .iso running. Actually its a limitation of this PC bios, etc. specifically since it uses up or locks the primary hdd controller (since it is in use).
While I could use a Distro or tool that specifically loads completely to memory or other method (which I tried but again this bios has features that are made to frustrate work-arounds) I won't go about describing that route.
The point here is Not that I wish to partition. That is an easy matter I could simply boot an CD .iso , etc.
The point is how to install.
(Pay attention to read-up on the method and adapt to your own uses also to create your own custom tricks / systems).

  • So, its really a Simple method I use, to wit.
    Note; Pay attention!!
    1. Put the .iso on the secondary Hard disk.
    2. Boot the SuperGRUB2Disk
    3. Select Detect loop bootable isos.
      (from the website..
      Quote
      "Many GNU/Linux liveCD distributions support loop booting from an iso file, that is you can boot from the iso file without needing to burn it to a CD. This option will search all partitions for either a directory /boot-isos/ or /boot/boot-isos/. It will then find all of the .iso files within those directories and create a menu to choose among them. Not all iso files can be loop booted, as the live distribution itself needs to support this. Each live distribution has its own quirks when it comes to loop booting and needs to be treated specially (unless they ship a Loopback.cfg).
      .. supported Distributions:. ..Ubuntu.. ..SystemRescueCd..
      ..Any distribution that ships with a Loopback.cfg "


      Ubuntu 16.04 based Distros and disks like Mint 18 18.1, etc. has that Loopback.cfg already enabled so they will be detected.
    4. Then when you see the .iso listed you want select to Boot it!
      • Note that:
      • The output is geeky, If you have more than one drive with bootable .isos
        *(note edited from sdab which is wrong!(whoops) to sdb) sdb would on an Ubuntu or Mint system be the 2nd hdd.
        Thise may be called hdb, hdd1, hdd device 1 (assuming your primary hdd would be hdd0) or similar. If you have no other iso that its easy there will only be one option.
    5. That's it! Done! ^It should boot thereafter.
      Just remove the disk at reboot.
      ^With the caveat that if you are booting from an .iso on the primary hdd you won't be ble to install there. But you can on the second hdd.
      Of course I boot from an iso on the secondary installing to primary.
      Also note it makes no difference if you want to install on a dual boot system (mine is), however if using mbr (as this How to describes) note you can only have 4 primary partitions!. Read-up on it.
      Also then you see actually the advantage of GPT / EFI boot . You can have any number of partitions on a GPT (GUID Partition Table) sytem.


  • *Appendix:
  • GPT (GUID Partition Table)
  • Loopback.cfg
  • Distribution - or distro, refers to a specific implementation of a GNU/Linux operating system.
    A project which ships an operating system that includes the Linux kernel is said to be a Linux distribution.
  • bootable - meaning it is a disk .iso that is specifically made by the Distributor, (ex. Ubuntu 16.04, Linux Mint 18) to be bootable.
    Especially from a disk .iso on the hard disk (many are using this method)
  • installable - meaning the Distro disk is built with an install option.



Last edited by FsFOOT; 02/23/17 11:53 PM. Reason: ps and note edited from sdab which is wrong!(whoops) to sdb
#4340235 - 02/25/17 06:01 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Everything you'll ever need to know about GUID Partition Table (GPT)
https://www.ibm.com/developerworks/library/l-gpt/index.html]
(Make the most of large drives with GPT and Linux
Preparing for future disk storage with the GUID Partition Table)

Direct from the man himself, Roderick Smith the well known rEFInd GURU
http://www.rodsbooks.com/ and IBM also have info / links to all EFI, UEFI, secure boot etc. matters.

Also the IBM content can be downloaded as .pdf

Last edited by FsFOOT; 02/25/17 06:04 AM. Reason: Also the IBM content can be downloaded as .pdf
#4352132 - 04/19/17 05:43 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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So you want a way to host or show a server or service directly from your computer to the internet without a lot of effort or knowing how to run / connect server from home?

Very easy with this software and service.
BUT it is a paid service, unless you are a FOSS developer.
https://pagekite.net/

How Does It Work?

https://pagekite.net/support/quickstart/

Summary
Quote

How Can PageKite Help Me?
Hackers & Tinkerers

Any computer can be a server!
Simplify SSH access to mobile or virtual devices.
Avoid the limitations of dynamic DNS.
Stop worrying about IP addresses, port numbers, routers, firewalls, ...
Protect your privacy by taking control of your data and logs.
Use the source, Luke!

Web Developers

Let colleagues and clients test or remote-debug directly off your computer.
Simplify testing on mobile devices and live networks.
Run webhooks, API servers or git repos on your desktop - or in a VM.
Develop Facebook apps using our wild-card SSL certificate.
Work from anywhere, even over 3G or limited WiFi.
Secure your work with HTTP auth. and SSL encryption.

Embedded Developers

Name and access devices in the field using free, standard tools, even over hostile 3rd party networks.
Use our redundant, managed infrastructure to out-source administration and scaling concerns.
Future-proof your business by building on Open Source and open standards.
Get priority support and non-GPL licenses directly from the authors.



This information FYI, AYOR
I'm not an agent for them nor have I tried it. But will it seems very easy and good for some limited things.
The source I got this is this blog: http://planet.debian.org/deriv/ If you like the technical Linux (Debian) information.

#4378640 - 09/09/17 07:04 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Where and How to get a safe encrypted solution for file storage online particularly to store for example critical data, web passwords etc. so you can access anytime in a jam and "Sync" to other devices.

First let me say I use Linux Mint Operating system.
For making my own encrypted data file I use the free progrm KeypassX
https://www.keepassx.org/
It is basically the alternative for Keepass, which is practically an industry standard many people use.
There are tons of download versions / alternatives posted at this url for Keepass, KeepassX, etc. :
http://keepass.info/download.html

Many Linux Distros include it also as available in repositories.

Now to store the data file or files I use a free online storage solution:
https://owndrive.com/

Owndrive is the same technology as Owncloud. But is not Owncloud it is a private host.
There re free as well as paid options. I use the free options now for almost ayear with no problems ever.
It uses uses an Owncloud client available from the site.

It has both a web interface as well as sync client for both Windows, MAC, Linux as well as smartphones Apple IOS and Android.
https://owndrive.com/sync-clients/

All you do is set the Owncloud sync client to my.owndrive.com
its real easy.

The avantage of Owndrive is the Additional Web Interface. You can log in from the internet just like any web service and access you files anytime also.
Very useful if you either lose your device or not have it with you,. Or if you get stuck somewhere.

Also Owndrive is based in Norway as well as their servers.

Thus for example the US Patriot act cannot be used to subvert your legal rights to yur data, etc.
Note that I actually don't have anything to hide. Nor would I ever endorse any criminal activity. That is not the reason I am posting this.
I just am against such incursions which IMHO violate the spirit of the US Bill of rights that guaranteed the right of its citizens to be secure in their 'papers' and such.
And certainly every individual needs to know how to secure their data from crackers, criminals, enemy states, etc.

That said, note that by using the Keepass / KeepassX , etc. solution (properly that is - read and understand their information and what encryption is and does as well as what it does not do first before you do this!) you fully encrypt your data before you ever upload it.
Its a very good solution and frankly no one is ever going to be able to crack your data if you encrypt it reasonably using this method.
The strength of the data encrypt will be well enough safe or really safer than any financial institution uses. And frankly way less likely than them to ever be targeted.
And depending on your choice of what method you use as a keyfile or password in KeepassX (in other words your level of paranoia. Mine is fairly high but even so I don't even bother with using the most sophisticated method. As long as your passphrase is over 20+ characters mixed chars and numbers, etc. so forth it is enough. But that is up to you.
Also making multiple archives is safer than a single obviously.
If you have data that needs higher protection than this it shouldn't even be online frankly.

In other words you would be a military actor or mogul, or criminal etc.
In that case you hardly need my advise.. lol.

Cheers!
2017-9

Last edited by FsFOOT; 09/09/17 07:37 AM. Reason: fixed a link back.. nevermind the details..
#4378646 - 09/09/17 08:04 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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%!#Stack Overflow#!%
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Hotshot

Joined: May 2000
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Good advice FsFOOT. Although you did remind me of this old xkcd strip... wink

[Linked Image]

#4379106 - 09/12/17 09:42 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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This next Tip is actually for Android Smartphone, Specifically a Android Tracfone that is a (yuk :/ Google-phone)..aka throw-away spyphone:

How to browse securely on a Tracfone?

I have this Smartphone that is a Tracfone. Its a decent cheap ZTE made one with Android. The phone hardware itself I have no problem with. But its got Google crap built in which I hate and worse opening Chrome browser that it installs takes you to Tracfone crap with adds etc as its homepage. There is no changing it since Tracfone has it set this way.

- - - - > Install Orbot then ---> Orfox

Orbot is a TOR network Proxy app.
Orfox is a custom Firefox browser for Android with Noscript and HTTPS Everywhere enabled already (note that same as all Firefox you have to make any other settings you want within Firefox settings after you install).

Read up on it here:

https://www.ghacks.net/2017/09/10/a-look-at-orfox-a-tor-browser-for-android/

and Thanks to Guardian Project
https://guardianproject.info/apps/

Installed
F-Droid
https://guardianproject.info/fdroid/

Install Orbot
https://guardianproject.info/apps/orbot/

and then
Orfox
https://guardianproject.info/apps/orfox/

Note this isn't exactly a tutorial on my part since I don't recall the exact sequence I used since I had to fiddle around with this for about n hour but finally got both Orbot and OrFox installed and they work.


First I installed
F-Droid and enabled the Guardian repositories , but it seemed Tracfone doesn't like this anyway.. IT would run the intall then it would report it failed. Even though I did enable the settings in Android, etc.

I had to fiddle around since Tracfone is set up to thwart such installs.
It never worked trying Google Play.
The process for Tracfone is to browse first (using chrome) to the Tracfone homepage, login phone number then browse search for app Orbot. then install. But not sure it worked
I think the deal was I Eventually I downloaded the .apk file.
Then same deal for Orfox.

At any rate it works. Now I just launch Orbot, then Orfox.

Now I can surf without Tracfone and Google eavesdropping on my browse traffic, etc.

And connect safely at coffee houses, etc. since TOR (Orbot) is a VPN in that respect and all the browser traffic is also HTTPS since HTTPS Everywhere.

Cheers



Last edited by FsFOOT; 09/12/17 09:47 AM. Reason: ....for Android Tracfone
#4380581 - 09/21/17 06:29 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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How to mute all sites by default in Firefox

a new add-on for Firefox.. I'm loving it!

https://www.ghacks.net/2017/08/30/how-to-mute-all-sites-by-default-in-firefox/

I added to my web-arsenal of add-ons to a customized Firefox 51

not to mention I launch with firejail:

https://firejail.wordpress.com/

oh btw if you use ccleaner it was hacked twice check ghacks!

Attached Files fsfoot-ffaddons-2017-9.png
Last edited by FsFOOT; 09/21/17 06:34 AM.
#4382023 - 09/29/17 05:42 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Be Warned;
Internet Explorer - leaks what you type to sites
https://www.ghacks.net/2017/09/28/internet-explorer-bug-leaks-what-you-type-to-sites/

Got to say again gHacks is a good place to check for information - also has a Linux section

#4383647 - 10/07/17 12:26 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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FYI: for anyone who need a Free Website, I use Neocities free site and it is great imho.
There are no ads.
My site in my signature.

To quote;
"Designed as a 21st century reincarnation of GeoCities, Neocities lets you make your own site for free. And it just might spark a renaissance of creativity online."
— Matthew Guay, AppStorm.

#4383759 - 10/07/17 10:28 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Live Down Under? Or might order from there? Or Download? Be sure to check out this:

PCAviator.com.au store

A 1-Stop Shop for Flight Simulations and Hardware!

You can't beat that, Mate!
wink


btw; Also has Car & Racing Simulators, Trains, Books and a few other things.

Last edited by FsFOOT; 10/07/17 10:32 PM. Reason: Trains too
#4388377 - 11/06/17 06:07 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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#4388540 - 11/07/17 12:54 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Old versions of Windows, Mac and Linux Software, Apps & Abandonware Games - Android too:
http://www.oldversion.com/

#4388544 - 11/07/17 01:26 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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free tools for recovery, partitions, restore, backup related


for Windows;

Create Windows recovery media with AOMEI Windows PE Builder -- ghacks

What is AOMEI PE Builder

--

Create a factory restore partition and one key system backup and restore for your Windows PC and Server
AOMEI OneKey Recovery 1.6

--

FREE Hard Disk Partition Software;

AOMEI Partition Assistant Standard Edition


------------------------------
for Linux or other Live CD's to manage hard disk partitions, booting, rescue

Gparted

Clonezilla

System Rescue Cd

Rescatux and Super Grub2 Disk

#4388759 - 11/08/17 05:29 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Some things different in this post -- geared to the Pros on the site or those that may wish to become one:

- This is for people serious about writing Documentation like a Pro... Something oft needed in the games world yet rarely found!

Write the Docs - Documentation Guide
http://www.writethedocs.org/guide/


- Similarly for making Windows packages / software installations like a Pro
(aka a deployment solution for Windows)


Chocolatey - Software Management Automation The package manager for Windows
https://chocolatey.org/

Combine these two powerful sites tools to your Game release and never look back!

#4390379 - 11/18/17 11:37 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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How to install a free legal Windows in VirtualBox (or other VM) in Linux

Also; you can use on Windows or whatever - - > see the links for the vm's at end of this post

I have not tried this yet. The instructions, at the time at least, claim Windows 7 was available through the link however the link has changed to https://developer.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-edge/tools/vms/ and the
Code
Virtual machine    Select platform   

option seems to be disabled. At least in both my browsers Firefox with noscript, etc and also a custom Midori.
(You could try another browser, but suspect it means the Win 7 , and other options other than windows 10 have been removed?)

However, following this I found Windows 10 vms download is available:
https://developer.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/downloads/virtual-machines

Which has the links on the page that are working
Quote

Download a virtual machine

Windows 10 Enterprise (Evaluation - Build 201710) 20 GB download

This VM will expire on 1/15/18.


- note: they are redirects to the actual download at microsoft.com

Last edited by FsFOOT; 11/18/17 11:39 PM.
#4390982 - 11/23/17 02:53 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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from gHacks yet again.. Find out if your Intel system is vulnerable to Intel Manageability Engine vulnerabilities


Intel advisory


Just ran the tool in Linux (Its just a python script really.) Thankfully my laptop is not vulnerable.
To do in Linux:
- download the SA00086_Linux.tar.gz from Intel-SA-00086 Detection Tool page (same page also has Windows version .exe . Documentation is included)

- extract it to a folder
give files an executable permission: intel_sa00086.py and spsInfoLinux64 (for 64 bit CPU)

- in a terminal run the command with admin priviledges:
sudo ./intel_sa00086.py
that's it. Also a .log file is generated in the same folder will contain the same info.

Also you can check other possible Intel product issues like recent (WPA2) protocol vulnerability here:
Intel Product security Center


Last edited by FsFOOT; 11/23/17 02:54 AM.
#4391012 - 11/23/17 02:51 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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UK
I just ran that tool and it says my system is vulnerable (i5 6600).

I'm a little confused about what to do about it.If I go to one of the links it states that for 6th gen processors I need Intel® ME 11.8.50.3425 or higher.I just checked my version and I have 11.7.0.1004 so I ran the Intel Update Utility but it says there are no newer versions.

Do I wait until my mainboard manufacturer (MSI) releases a new version? And why wont the Intel utility bring up that newer build?


EV's are the Devils matchbox.
#4391097 - 11/24/17 12:02 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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According to gHacks:
Quote

There is nothing that users can do to the system directly to fix the vulnerability. Intel notes that it is up to OEMs and manufacturers to release updates for their products to fix the security issues.

What that means is the following: If you have bought a PC from a manufacturer like Dell, Lenovo, HP or any other PC manufacturer, you need to wait for them to release updates that address the issue.

Intel lists links to support information on this support article. The company will update links to manufacturers when updates are released by them. Currently, links are available for Dell and Lenovo customers.

Users who built a PC by themselves, changed the motherboard, or bought a pre-assembled PC using custom parts, need to consult the motherboard manufacturer instead.


As to the versions cited I do not have any other information on it.

Last edited by FsFOOT; 11/24/17 12:03 AM.
#4391105 - 11/24/17 12:55 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Post of a different flavor:
Save this link for Gaming News;

https://games.slashdot.org/

Last edited by FsFOOT; 11/24/17 12:56 AM.
#4391109 - 11/24/17 01:18 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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via slashdot and vice.com ;
Quote

How a Wi-Fi Pineapple Can Steal Your Data (And How To Protect Yourself From It) (vice.com)
..
An anonymous reader writes:
The Wi-Fi Pineapple is a cheap modified wireless router enables anyone to execute sophisticated exploits on Wi-Fi networks with little to no networking expertise. A report in Motherboard explains how it can be used to run a Wall of Sheep and execute a man-in-the-middle attack, as well as how you can protect yourself from Pineapple exploits when you're connected to public Wi-Fi.
"... it's important that whenever you are done connecting to a public Wi-Fi network that you configure your phone or computer to 'forget' that network. This way your device won't be constantly broadcasting the SSIDs of networks it has connected to in the past, which can be spoofed by an attacker with a Pineapple," reports Motherboard. "Unfortunately there is no easy way to do this on an Android or an iPhone, and each network must be forgotten manually in the 'Manage Network' tab of the phone's settings. Another simple solution is to turn off your Wi-Fi functionality when you're not using it -- though that isn't as easy to do on some devices anymore -- and don't allow your device to connect to automatically connect to open Wi-Fi networks."


Last edited by FsFOOT; 11/24/17 01:19 AM.
#4391285 - 11/25/17 03:18 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Why you cannot trust websites, and need to keep block lists and tools updated

via betanews
Privacy: Use of session replay scripts means many websites essentially have built in keyloggers

report from this site
No boundaries: Exfiltration of personal data by session-replay scripts

Originally Posted by freedom-to-tinker

Does tracking protection help?

Two commonly used ad-blocking lists EasyList and EasyPrivacy do not block FullStory, Smartlook, or UserReplay scripts. EasyPrivacy has filter rules that block Yandex, Hotjar, ClickTale and SessionCam.

At least one of the five companies we studied (UserReplay) allows publishers to disable data collection from users who have Do Not Track (DNT) set in their browsers. We scanned the configuration settings of the Alexa top 1 million publishers using UserReplay on their homepages, and found that none of them chose to honor the DNT signal.


Both EasyList and EasyPrivacy block lists are used in for example uBlock origin, uMatrix, etc.
A user commented that the block list in EasyPrivacy have been updated.. I can't confirm that,will look into it later

p.s.
see this url for additional information about sites:

Data release: list of websites that have third-party “session replay” scripts


This replaying technology even can record stuff you erase from forms prior to submitting. Or anything you type or do in them. So be warned!



Last edited by FsFOOT; 11/25/17 03:30 AM. Reason: be warned!
#4391287 - 11/25/17 04:00 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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#4391313 - 11/25/17 12:31 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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UK
But if you're a gamer? Which the vast majority on SimHQ are.

The last time I tried Linux for gaming (which admittedly was 12 months or more ago) it was a disaster. There just isn't enough support from the game companies and I don't think there ever will be.

Linux is an excellent replacement for Windows otherwise.


EV's are the Devils matchbox.
#4391582 - 11/27/17 05:43 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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There are tons of gaming on Linux. It just depends on the games you play.
And thousands of free games. And some paid games.Like Steam and more.
All the software I use on Linux is free otherwise. I've paid $0 since I started using Linux exclusively for more than a last year now.
Anyway, I don't care to convince anyone or argue the point.

#4391583 - 11/27/17 05:46 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Pale Moon team has released the first version of the Basilisk web browser that is based largely on Firefox code.

https://www.ghacks.net/2017/11/17/pale-moon-team-releases-first-version-of-basilisk-browser/

Last edited by FsFOOT; 11/27/17 05:47 AM.
#4391857 - 11/29/17 07:28 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Need $ to produce your game?

Fig is a crowdfunding platform for video games

unfortunately fig site uses so much javascript the only page I can read in my locked-down browser is their blog




Last edited by FsFOOT; 11/29/17 07:29 AM.
#4391987 - 11/30/17 07:05 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Free secure email: Tutanota is derived from Latin and contains the words "tuta" and "nota" which mean "secure message".
Many prefer it to Proton mail.

I am trying it. It features encryption end to end.
By default it sends email encrypted but can also send unencrypted.

The site login works easily even though I use noscript, umatrix, ublock origin, etc. just allow tutanota.com.



Last edited by FsFOOT; 11/30/17 07:07 AM.
#4392287 - 12/01/17 02:57 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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PCsteps.com Has a lot of good page for both hardware and software for LInux or Windows, even MAC
such as,

How To Create a Software RAID 5 in Linux Mint / Ubuntu

How To Create Software RAID 5 in Windows 8.1 and 10

Software RAID 1 in Windows 7 for Increased Data Security

also Gaming

such as,
Get free games from Origin
with links to such as "Full PC Games. Origin On the House" website,
Full PC Games. Origin On the House

Nice smile
I'll have to try Origin soon!

#4392546 - 12/02/17 01:22 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Free Games and downloads from Shrapnel Games

Enhanced / newer version of old dos game - Steel Panthers

  • winSPMBT: Main Battle Tank Free Version
    Computer Game: Windows
    Type: Tank Warfare
    Steel Panthers for Windows
    Also available in an Enhanced CD version for $39.95
  • winSPWW2 Free Version
    omputer Game: Windows
    Type: Tank Warfare
    Steel Panthers for Windows, WWII era!
    Also available in an Enhanced CD version for $39.95


Others

  • Conquest of Elysium II
    Computer Game: Windows, Mac OSX
    Type: Fantasy Role-Playing
    The precursor to the wildly popular Dominions series!
  • Plasmaworm
    Computer Game: Windows
    Type: Arcade
    Control a plasmaworm through twenty increasingly difficult levels of play
  • Strange Adventures in Infinite Space
    Computer Game: Windows, Mac
    Type: Strategy
    Explore the galaxy...in 20 minutes or less!
  • Soup du Jour
    Computer Game: Windows
    Type: Matching
    Digital Eel's Matching Game to beat all Matching Games!
  • Goblin Slayer
    Board Game: Print & Play
    Type: Fantasy
    The quest for the Shimmering Widget!
  • Big Box of Blox
    Computer Game: Windows, Mac
    Type: Arcade
    Tetris on acid!


Shrapnel games com.unity Forums



#4392910 - 12/03/17 07:25 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Where to find, analyze, download CryptoCoin Software Distributions?

The CryptoCoin.cc website was first published on 1 December 2014 (initially as CryptoCoin.cm). It is a sister project of DistroWatch.com (a site covering Linux and open source Distributions)

It was conceived .. in 2001 - to create a database of cryptocurrencies and organise them in a logical and searchable manner. ... a one-stop resource referencing the software behind these digital currencies.

The emphasis on the word "software" above is no coincidence. There is a large number of excellent websites that focus on the monetary, financial and investment aspects of cryptocoins, but there are aren't many that provide information about the many interesting technical features of these exciting new technologies

http://cryptocoin.cc/

..Fascinating!

#4404111 - 02/08/18 12:34 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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#4404113 - 02/08/18 12:39 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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#4404116 - 02/08/18 12:59 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Avast releases machine-code decompiler RetDec

Also the web / browser based version here is actually working: https://retdec.com/decompilation/
Amazingly good.

#4404828 - 02/13/18 12:59 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Multimedia Day!

  • --- from gHacks.net:
    Installing Kodi using Ubuntu based systems
    "Installation of Kodi on Ubuntu / Ubuntu based systems is incredibly easy thanks to the use of the official Kodi PPA."

    Play audio only on YouTube to save bandwidth
    "Audio Only YouTube is a browser extension for Google Chrome to play the audio stream of YouTube videos only."

    ---
  • --- from betanews:
    TVAddons releases new standalone Git Browser for Kodi
    "Unofficial Kodi add-on provider TVAddons promised to 'change how people access streaming media forever', and two weeks ago it released a new GitHub Browser to make it easier to browse and install Kodi addons."

    How to install and use the fantastic Kodi alternative that's gaining in popularity
    "...rival streaming service Mobdro has been gaining in popularity. The app can be installed on any Android device, including phones, tablets, Amazon's Fire TV Stick, and Google's Chromecast 2"

    --- from Distrowatch
    LibreELEC at DistroWatch.com
    Originally Posted by Distrowatch

    LibreELEC is "just enough OS" to run the Kodi media centre. LibreELEC is a Linux distribution built to run Kodi on current and popular hardware. The project is an evolution of the OpenELEC project. LibreELEC software will be familiar to OpenELEC users. The distribution runs on x86 desktop computers, Raspberry Pi devices and ODroid and WeTek computers.

#4404870 - 02/13/18 07:11 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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How to use Decentraleyes (a Firefox Add-on) properly with NoScript, Umatrix / Ublock Origin

I have all these add-ons in Firefox. In fact all these:
[Linked Image]
But until now I haven't been using Decentralize properly always. Especially since a new install of firefox-esr.

Decentraleyes test page here

When you have the correct settings it will indicate so. Or not if vice' versa.

Decentraleyes FAQ page
has the answer to the settings for Umatrix / UBlock Origin and NoScript, etc.

  • First make the settings for Noscript:
    Quote
    Add the domains ajax.googleapis.com, ajax.aspnetcdn.com, ajax.microsoft.com, cdnjs.cloudflare.com, code.jquery.com, cdn.jsdelivr.net, yandex.st, yastatic.net, libs.baidu.com, lib.sinaapp.com, and upcdn.b0.upaiyun.com to your whitelist.


    -
  • Then settings for Umatrix or UBlock Origin

    Quote
    Open up the extension dashboard, and navigate to the My rules tab. Revert any unwanted non-permanent changes, click Edit under the temporary rules section, and paste the list of rules below into the text area. Save and commit your changes. Supported requests will now be delegated.

    * ajax.googleapis.com * noop
    * ajax.aspnetcdn.com * noop
    * ajax.microsoft.com * noop
    * cdnjs.cloudflare.com * noop
    * code.jquery.com * noop
    * cdn.jsdelivr.net * noop
    * yastatic.net * noop
    * yandex.st * noop
    * libs.baidu.com * noop
    * lib.sinaapp.com * noop
    * upcdn.b0.upaiyun.com * noop

    -
    Quote

    Note if you use both like I do just make these above noop settings in Umatrix. You don't need to set them in UBlock Origin also.

    I use UBlock Origin to do all its blocking (in non-easy mode) and Umatrix I have unchecked alll the hosts files lists (as shown in image below).
    Then I use Umatrix only to do some other settings and Allow / disallow some parts of pages individually occassionaly. UBlock Origin really does most of the work.

    [Linked Image]

    btw:Actually I did add
    * ajax.googleapis.com * noop
    to UBlock Origin also, before I figured out UMatrix would logically be where they go. But it makes probaly no difference


    --
  • That's it. Done!

    Now open the Decentraleyes test page here again to check if Decentraleyes is working.
    [Linked Image]


Voila' it works!

--
Addendum...
Since I use RequestPolicy Continued, I just found out it only works with Dencentraleyes if you also allow the requested CDN in RequestPolicy Continued (ex. ajax.googleapis.com).
I may stop using RequestPolicy Continued anyway, although it is an excellent Add-on,
(blocks and is especially useful to block images, and more. that try to load from 3rd party sites into webpage)
since 3P Request Blocker just came out and seems very promising.
see; 3P Request Blocker blocks all third-party requests in Firefox
Its a web extension and thus can be used in later browsers also ... only be used in later than
Firefox ESR 52 / Tor Browser, since ESR52 doesn't have latest WebExt APIs.. Thus I may upgrade to newer browser since I currently using just Firefox 52 ESR.)

Attached Files addons2018-2-12.pngumatrix-royssettingwublockorigin.pngdecentraleyesworks.png
Last edited by FsFOOT; 02/13/18 11:02 PM. Reason: Addendum... only be used in later than Firefox ESR 52
#4405016 - 02/13/18 11:07 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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3P Request Blocker just came out and seems very promising.

Quote
About this extension
This add-on block all 3rd party requests. Only you can allow|temporary allow them.

- You can use wildcard for source|destination domain.
- Additionally, this add-on will protect you from these attacks:
1. Try to load http:// resource from https://
2. Try to load internet resource from file://
3. Try to trick you with punycode domain (disabled by default) [article]
- You can configure this add-on to allow(ignore) 3P CSS resource and sub-domains.
- This add-on is not an ad-blocker, but it can block known tracking attempts, etc. Disabled by default. Of course, you can use this add-on with "Adblock Plus".
- Block resource type / MIME type to save bandwidth.
- Many options to configure. Hover your mouse over the ☑ to read tooltips.
- Nothing is sent nor collected by this add-on.
- Support "Firefox Android". Results may vary. (my primary target is PC)


To Firefox ESR 52 / Tor Browser users:
ESR52 doesn't have latest WebExt APIs, so both won't work:
1. Whitelist "export" button
2. WebSocket blocking
Upgrade your Firefox or wait for next ESR release(ESR59+).


see; 3P Request Blocker blocks all third-party requests in Firefox

#4405027 - 02/13/18 11:34 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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One reason I use blockers such as RequestPolicy Continued?
Well "a picture tells a thousand words." :
[Linked Image]

This is example of web junk that we have to deal with.
As you can see there are actually 96 objects being blocked just by RequestPolicy Continued in this example.!
No offense to the the site (its actually my Add-Ons page at Sandbagger's now at the webserver of wife's Cake site) its just an example of the massive crap that trys to load on pages that I don't need.

Attached Files notpleased.png
#4406693 - 02/22/18 05:16 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Looks like a useful free cloud tool from AOMEI:

MultCloud - Put Multiple Cloud Drives Into One
Free App for Managing Files and Transferring Files across Cloud Drives

Manage Multiple Cloud Drives in One Platform.

MULTCLOUD.com
Create an account - or try first

Quote
MultCloud supports Dropbox, OwnCloud, WebDAV, Google Drive, MEGA, etc. all almost 30 cloud drives. These clouds are popular and safe cloud storages which gain large number of users all over the world.

Google Drive G Suite Dropbox Dropbox for business OneDrive OneDrive for Business MEGA Amazon Cloud Drive AmazonS3 Box FTP MySQL pCloud Mediafire SugarSync Egnyte


Media Reviews
  • lifehacker;
    MultCloud helps you access and search all of your files in one place so you don't need to sign into several accounts.
  • pc advisor:
    Multcloud.com is an online service that allows users to link their various cloud services to a single site. Here you can transfer files between the different providers, preview documents, and generally make better use of the storage facilities
  • the windows club;
    MultCloud is a cloud aggregator tool that offers the freedom to connect to several accounts from single place. More importantly, the free web service possesses the innate ability to copy files from one cloud storage account to another, without having to download it on your desktop.




#4406873 - 02/23/18 02:54 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Install Linux in Windows 10:
How to Get Started Using WSL in Windows 10

ps. I Recommend Ubuntu (if using this tutorial) its more stable and in general easier and more bug free than openSUSE 42 leap.

---
And warning; read up on apt-get, because using this command is Not usually recommended;
sudo apt-get dist-upgrade

that will upgrade your version to the latest, and that could make a lot of changes - not always what one wants.

Say you are on 16.04 LTS (the most stable currently) that command would get you to a later version. Not always good.

That said, I've never tried this on Windows!

---
Also see the Manual for WSL at MSDN


Last edited by FsFOOT; 02/23/18 03:07 AM.
#4407080 - 02/24/18 01:33 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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TechVine Tech Tips Helpful site fron OZ down under .au

AOMEI OneKey Recovery Review - TechVine Tech Tip
Originally Posted by TechVine Tech Tip
For many users, it is fundamental to have a strategic plan for backing up and restoring their computer in event of system failure.

AOMEI OneKey Recovery software enables you to create a recovery partition on your operating system which contains a snapshot of your PC at that point in time where you can restore to later if needed.

What puts this product above other the usual OEM factory recovery partition is that it works even when the OS cannot boot up! Furthermore, you can configure and setup your recovery partition in a few simple steps. It is supported on most Windows operating systems – XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10 on both 32-bit and 64-bit versions.


[Linked Image]
[Linked Image]

Attached Files ao-windows8-1menu.pngBootMenu-EFI.png
#4407099 - 02/24/18 06:13 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Eh' mate,, Need an old Windows 95 or Win3 or win98, etc, driver or software download?

Josh from Ballarat's Socket 3 site hosts a ton of stuff down under that used to be on the M$ ftp server. And more.

nice pic of the Victoria region also on the about the author page.

Last edited by FsFOOT; 02/24/18 06:15 AM.
#4407100 - 02/24/18 06:19 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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The Linux Foundation - Introduction to Linux free course

Quote

This class is designed for people who have little or no prior experience with Linux or Unix. System administrators, developers, architects, decision makers or new Linux users can all benefit from the content covered in this class, especially if they are looking to work with more involved topics such as Linux system administration, network management and enterprise system architecture.
Course Materials

This course is:

100% online and self-paced
40-50 hours of content designed by our Linux experts
Designed to give students a good working knowledge of Linux
Absolutely free via edx.org

#4408171 - 02/28/18 11:52 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Help for Windows users:
LAZESOFT
Lazesoft Recovery Suite Home Edition is a powerful application that can not only recover lost data but also restore and repair entire Windows installations.

Quote

Tutorials from Lazesoft Recovery Suite:

How to burn a bootable recovery CD
How to boot from the created recovery CD
How to create a bootable recovery USB Disk and boot from it
How to perform a data recovery
How to recover deleted files
How to recover data from formatted or damaged partition
How to fix boot problems if Windows won't start correctly
How to clone entire disk for backup or upgrading
How to recover Windows login password
How to recover Windows Server password

Tutorials from Lazesoft Recover My Password:

Forgot your Windows admin user password?
How to burn a Windows password recovery CD
How to boot Windows password recovery CD
How to create and boot from a Windows password recovery bootable USB Device
Video Help - Reset forgotten Windows 7 Administrator password
Video Help - Windows 8 password recovery
Free Windows 8 password recovery
How to recover Windows Server password
How to recover Windows 2003 password
Windows Key Finder
MS Office key finder
password-recovery-guide

Tutorials from Lazesoft Data Recovery:

How to burn a bootable data recovery CD
How to boot from the created data recovery CD
How to create a bootable data recovery USB Disk and boot from it
How to perform a data recovery
How to recover deleted files
How to recover data from formatted or damaged partition
Partition Recovery
More...

Tutorials from Lazesoft Windows Recovery:

How to burn a bootable Windows recovery CD
How to boot from the created Windows recovery CD
How to create a bootable Windows recovery USB Disk and boot from it
How to fix boot problems if Windows won't start correctly
Fix NTLDR is missing
Fix BOOTMGR is compressed
build a Windows 7 USB System Repair Disc
Fix a damaged MBR for Windows XP
Fix a damaged MBR
Fix a Windows 7 Loading Crash
Fix a Windows XP Loading Crash
fix DISK BOOT FAILURE
fix invalid boot.ini
Fix 'Operating system not found'
Fix Windows Boot Crash
fix Windows Server 2008 BOOTMGR is missing Error
Generate Report
fix the 'Hal.dll is Missing' error
fix BOOTMGR Is Missing
Start Menu on Lazesoft boot disk
Build Windows 7 System Repair Disc
Build Windows 8 recovery USB disk
Windows Vista USB bootable recovery disk
Windows XP bootable recovery disk


More...

Tutorials from Lazesoft Disk Image & Clone:

How to burn a bootable disk/partition manager CD
How to boot from the created disk/partition manager CD
How to create a bootable disk/partition manager USB Disk and boot from it
How to clone entire disk for backup or upgrading



or you can always use Linux wink
Linux - Top Ten Distributions

#4408237 - 03/01/18 07:32 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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GPT 4 dummies (forget the book or webpages) - I finally get it. And so can y'all;

Linux Mint install on my Toshiba Satellite laptop replacing Windows dual boot completely.

And what do I get? I finally get it !!

Squeaky clean GPT partitioned drive.
Nice!

No interventions, fussing with Disk Partitioning software, etc.

I actually just realized this greatness of GPT when I went to move my Home folder to another Drive.
Actually I had been so keen to get Windows wiped and Mint installed I made the cardinal (to a linux-geek) sin of not making a seperate /home folder and partition.
When I went to change that, and started using Gparted I thought I'd have to muck around about the usual / primary , extended and logical drive shuffle.

Thats when I realized it was so easy. Just select free space size-> format, done..... partition forever!
up to 128 possible of these by default in GPT. see reference https://www.ibm.com/developerworks/library/l-gpt/index.html
Quote

GPT uses LBA exclusively, so CHS headaches are gone.

Disk pointers are 64 bits in size, meaning that GPT can handle disks of up to 512 x 264 bytes (8 zebibytes, or 8.6 billion TiB), assuming 512-byte sectors.

GPT data structures are stored twice on the disk: once at the start and again at the end. This duplication improves the odds of successful recovery in case of damage from an accident or a bad sector.
Cyclic redundancy check values are computed for critical data structures, improving the odds of detection of data corruption.

GPT stores all partitions in a single partition table (with backup), so there's no need for extended or logical partitions. By default, 128 partitions are supported, although you can change the partition table size if the partitioning software supports such changes.

Whereas MBR provides a 1-byte partition type code, GPT uses a 16-byte globally unique identifier (GUID) value to identify partition types. This makes partition-type collisions less likely.

GPT enables storing a human-readable partition name. You can use this field to name your Linux® /home, /usr, /var, and other partitions for easier identification within partitioning software.


But Like I said forget the books or websites - get yourself a Linux Mint 18 disk and install and forget the GPT details. You get the GPT benefits and no interferences (provided you have an EFI and/or UEFI and GPT capable machine) from the crappy factory Windows style install.

You see the factory install of this laptop like most with Windows had the usual quirky Windows drive setup. Hidden backup partition from Toshiba, to refresh the OS if wanted, etc.
Windows also alwaays tries to make it harder for any other OS to be installed..

Not anymore.
And even if I wanted to put Windows back on here (NOPE!)
At least the drive now has been properly GPT partitioned - with a big enough EFI partition 512MB.
Unlike the way I got it!

btw; if you ever need to move your ubuntu or mint home folder see;
https://help.ubuntu.com/community/Partitioning/Home/Moving
or https://www.maketecheasier.com/move-home-folder-ubuntu/

just remember to edit fstab (the second time - /media/home thingy) before you move the home folder the last time!


Last edited by FsFOOT; 03/01/18 07:39 AM.
#4408414 - 03/02/18 05:52 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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I'm signing up for a free account at GitBook

GitBook is 'Documentation made easy

GitBook helps your team write, collaborate and publish content online."

https://www.gitbook.com/pricing
Quote

Open Source

Ideal for public and open source projects.

Free

Unlimited public books
Unlimited visits and updates

5 collaborators
0 private books

Custom domains

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Sign up for free


https://help.gitbook.com/
Quote
Can I run GitBook on-premise (on my own servers)?

No, GitBook is only a SaaS offering.

(SaaS = software as a service - in other words its online - not something you install)

Quote
How can I provide a PDF version of my book?

Ebooks (PDF, ePub, Mobi) are disabled by default on new books.

This feature can be enabled on your book settings, under the "Features" section


Quote
If you do not have requirement regarding privacy, our free plans are likely to fit your needs.


---
I'll probably use mine for ? ..something not private source related obviously.
Cheers!

#4409372 - 03/07/18 06:39 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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#4409569 - 03/08/18 06:01 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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FsFOOT Offline
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Need a CPU, GPU? Raw Computing Power to solve your evil genius equation or bitcoin mining to become the richest billionaire?

Here's the ultimate - Swinburn University launches $4M Dell EMC-built supercomputer

Its running 230 of these NVIDIA TESLA P100 -The world's first AI Supercomputing Data Center GPU

as well as:
Quote

The supercomputer features 4140 SkyLake cores at 2.3Ghz across 107 standard compute and eight data crunching nodes, 230 NVIDIA Tesla P100 12 GB GPUs, 272 Intel Xeon Phi cores at 1.6Ghz across four C6320pKNL nodes.

#4409733 - 03/09/18 05:43 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
Joined: Dec 2015
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FsFOOT Offline
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Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 602
Unmasking Fake Flash Memory

When it comes to cheap flash memory, buyers should beware. Fake flash memory often offers only a fraction of the advertised storage capacity. With no visible calibration mark, it isn't easy to discover a counterfeit. Here's a test to weed out fake disks.

#4410292 - 03/12/18 10:38 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
Joined: Dec 2015
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FsFOOT Offline
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Posts: 602
Speed up Mozilla Firefox

From How to Sped Up Mozilla Firefox
.. a bit dated but the trick still works..

Originally Posted by layer 3 networking blog

1. Disable IPv6

For a regular web page such as slashdot.org, Firefox needs to resolve more than 40 domain names. Each domain name is resolved twice, once for an IPv4 address and once for an IPv6 address. This results in lots of DNS requests, slowing down your web access. If you are like 99.999% of the population without IPv6 access, translating domain names in IPv6 addresses is useless.

To disable this functionality, type
about:config
into the (firefox) address bar.

type
ipv6
into the search bar

and toggle
network.dns.disableIPv6 to true


This still works good!

Last edited by FsFOOT; 03/12/18 10:39 PM.
#4411105 - 03/16/18 11:26 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Modern Linux and unsupported nVidia GPU's

(Video cards / chips in other words)

You may already know that AMD / ATI GPU are most often problematic in many modern Linux distros. This is mostly due to AMD's failure to update their driver.
There are free drivers that do work and often used by default installs of Linux, in most cases. The AMD proprietarty drivers often do not work well.

That said,
Intel and nVidia are the most recommended and usually less problematic GPU's.
For Linux many drivers available for these, both free and propriety.

Now less known to new people is that older nVidia cards are now often not supported by the newer nVidia proprietary drivers.

So when you are thinking of running Linux on that old Gaming PC or laptop, it pays to do you research about what Distro (Linux Distribution) have drivers that support it, especially for gaming.

Here's quote from a page from the AntiX - MX Wiki Unsupported Nvidia GPUs - which gives some good information.

Quote

Section:
Hardware

On this page:

173xx series
96xx series
71xx series
Links

173xx series

The following set of Nvidia GPUs are no longer supported in Debian Jessie, MX-15 or antiX-15 by the 173xx series proprietary nvidia driver (or any other series of the proprietary nvidia driver). They are still supported by the nouveau and vesa drivers.

NVIDIA GPU product Device PCI ID
GeForce PCX 5750 0x00FA
GeForce PCX 5900 0x00FB
Quadro FX 330/GeForce PCX 5300 0x00FC
Quadro FX 330/Quadro NVS 280 PCI-E 0x00FD
Quadro FX 1300 0x00FE
GeForce FX 5800 Ultra 0x0301
GeForce FX 5800 0x0302
Quadro FX 2000 0x0308
Quadro FX 1000 0x0309
GeForce FX 5600 Ultra 0x0311
GeForce FX 5600 0x0312
GeForce FX 5600XT 0x0314
GeForce FX Go5600 0x031A
GeForce FX Go5650 0x031B
Quadro FX Go700 0x031C
GeForce FX 5200 0x0320
GeForce FX 5200 Ultra 0x0321
GeForce FX 5200 0x0322
GeForce FX 5200LE 0x0323
GeForce FX Go5200 0x0324
GeForce FX Go5250 0x0325
GeForce FX 5500 0x0326
GeForce FX 5100 0x0327
GeForce FX Go5200 32M/64M 0x0328
Quadro NVS 55/280 PCI 0x032A
Quadro FX 500/FX 600 0x032B
GeForce FX Go53xx 0x032C
GeForce FX Go5100 0x032D
GeForce FX 5900 Ultra 0x0330
GeForce FX 5900 0x0331
GeForce FX 5900XT 0x0332
GeForce FX 5950 Ultra 0x0333
GeForce FX 5900ZT 0x0334
Quadro FX 3000 0x0338
Quadro FX 700 0x033F
GeForce FX 5700 Ultra 0x0341
GeForce FX 5700 0x0342
GeForce FX 5700LE 0x0343
GeForce FX 5700VE 0x0344
GeForce FX Go5700 0x0347
GeForce FX Go5700 0x0348
Quadro FX Go1000 0x034C
Quadro FX 1100 0x034E
96xx series

The following set of Nvidia GPUs are no longer supported in Debian Jessie, MX-15 or antiX-15 by the 96xx series proprietary nvidia driver (or any other series of the proprietary nvidia driver). They are still supported by the nouveau and vesa drivers.

NVIDIA chip name Device PCI ID
GeForce2 MX/MX 400 0x0110
GeForce2 MX 100/200 0x0111
GeForce2 Go 0x0112
Quadro2 MXR/EX/Go 0x0113
GeForce4 MX 460 0x0170
GeForce4 MX 440 0x0171
GeForce4 MX 420 0x0172
GeForce4 MX 440-SE 0x0173
GeForce4 440 Go 0x0174
GeForce4 420 Go 0x0175
GeForce4 420 Go 32M 0x0176
GeForce4 460 Go 0x0177
Quadro4 550 XGL 0x0178
GeForce4 440 Go 64M 0x0179
Quadro NVS 0x017A
Quadro4 500 GoGL 0x017C
GeForce4 410 Go 16M 0x017D
GeForce4 MX 440 with AGP8X 0x0181
GeForce4 MX 440SE with AGP8X 0x0182
GeForce4 MX 420 with AGP8X 0x0183
GeForce4 MX 4000 0x0185
Quadro4 580 XGL 0x0188
Quadro NVS 280 SD 0x018A
Quadro4 380 XGL 0x018B
Quadro NVS 50 PCI 0x018C
GeForce2 Integrated GPU 0x01A0
GeForce4 MX Integrated GPU 0x01F0
GeForce3 0x0200
GeForce3 Ti 200 0x0201
GeForce3 Ti 500 0x0202
Quadro DCC 0x0203
GeForce4 Ti 4600 0x0250
GeForce4 Ti 4400 0x0251
GeForce4 Ti 4200 0x0253
Quadro4 900 XGL 0x0258
Quadro4 750 XGL 0x0259
Quadro4 700 XGL 0x025B
GeForce4 Ti 4800 0x0280
GeForce4 Ti 4200 with AGP8X 0x0281
GeForce4 Ti 4800 SE 0x0282
GeForce4 4200 Go 0x0286
Quadro4 980 XGL 0x0288
Quadro4 780 XGL 0x0289
Quadro4 700 GoGL 0x028C
71xx series

The following set of Nvidia GPUs are no longer supported in Debian Jessie, MX-15 or antiX-15 by the 71xx series proprietary nvidia driver (or any other series of the proprietary nvidia driver -- actually, they haven't been supported since the Debian Lenny Release). They are still supported by the nouveau and vesa drivers.

NVIDIA chip name Device PCI ID
RIVA TNT 0x0020
RIVA TNT2/TNT2 Pro 0x0028
RIVA TNT2 Ultra 0x0029
Vanta/Vanta LT 0x002C
RIVA TNT2 Model 64/Model 64 Pro 0x002D
Aladdin TNT2 0x00A0
GeForce 256 0x0100
GeForce DDR 0x0101
Quadro 0x0103
GeForce2 GTS/GeForce2 Pro 0x0150
GeForce2 Ti 0x0151
GeForce2 Ultra 0x0152
Quadro2 Pro 0x0153


Link - nVidia - What's a legacy driver?

Other places to look for driver related stuff:

DistroWatch

google or wikipedia

ubuntu https://wiki.ubuntu.com/HardwareSupport

Ubuntu 16.04 ships with X.Org version 7.7. https://www.x.org/wiki/Projects/Drivers/

X.org - Details on supported graphics hardware and pointing devices https://www.x.org/wiki/FAQ/

https://www.linuxquestions.org/hcl/

https://wiki.archlinux.org/
has pages on laptops too - just note that Arch is now supporting only x64 now and dropping 32bit support


#4411831 - 03/21/18 04:38 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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FsFOOT Offline
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While looking for a way to use a real old original Microsoft Sidewinder 3d joystick which has only a serial port connector.. well its a long story..
I found 3DP-Vert and some guy in iowa makesa specific connector board .. but I'm skipping it - I'll just ick up another joystick ..ol its easier.

The most interesting part of it is while looking for converters for USB I stumbled upon this site:

V-USB is a software-only implementation of a low-speed USB device for Atmel’s AVR® microcontrollers, making it possible to build USB hardware with almost any AVR® microcontroller, not requiring any additional chip.

All Projects Based on V-USB


The projects are all kinds of converters / hacks and devices, see:
Quote

PowerSwitch - The Pure Basics
A simple example intended to demonstrate how to use V-USB. This is Objective Development’s reference implementation.

https://www.obdev.at/products/vusb/powerswitch.html
Author: Objective Development Software GmbH
Rating: [comments and votes]
RemoteSensor - Wireless Data Acquisition
This project is a wireless thermo- and hygrometer with up to 16 sensors and a central logging facility accessible via WWW. It’s a more advanced example intended to demonstrate how to use V-USB with an additional interrupt endpoint.

https://www.obdev.at/products/vusb/remotesensor.html
Author: Objective Development Software GmbH
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
USBasp - Programmer for Atmel AVR Controllers
USBasp is a USB in-circuit programmer for Atmel AVR controllers. It demonstrates how to pipe "large" data blocks through the USB driver.

http://www.fischl.de/usbasp/
Author: Thomas Fischl
Rating: [comments and votes]
LEDLoad - an LED Display for CPU Load
LEDLoad has started as a neat CPU load display using a single dual color LED. The current release has been extended to support up to two tri-color LEDs. It is designed to use a free internal USB port of any modern PC and replace the power LED in the case with something more interesting. A host driver kernel module is available for Linux.

http://www.jers.net/ledload/
Author: Jeremy Garff
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
LCD2USB - an Interface to Text LCDs
You know those ubiquitous 5x7 dot matrix text displays based on the HD44780 chip? LCD2USB interfaces those displays to USB. It is integrated into LCD4Linux, an Open Source Software which displays Linux system information on LCDs.

http://www.harbaum.org/till/lcd2usb/
Author: Till Harbaum
Rating: [comments and votes]
HIDKeys - a USB Keyboard
HIDKeys is a USB keyboard with 17 keys. This is an example demonstrating how to implement HID class compliant USB devices. It uses the operating system built-in driver for USB keyboards and thus needs no additional software on the host. For a full-blown keyboard implementation, see the C64 Keyboard project below.

https://www.obdev.at/products/vusb/hidkeys.html
Author: Objective Development Software GmbH
Rating: [comments and votes]
Automator - Punched Tape Updated
Automator is a device similar in concept to punched tape teletypes and musical boxes. It records key sequences and plays them back with relays. Program upload and download are done through an HID compliant driver.

https://www.obdev.at/products/vusb/automator.html
Author: Objective Development Software GmbH
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
uDMX - a DMX Interface
uDMX is a USB bus powered DMX interface. DMX (Digital MultipleX) is a bus for controlling stage lighting and special effects devices. This particular implementation comes with a Unix command line tool and plugin module for the Max/MSP software.

http://www.anyma.ch/research/udmx/
Author: [ a n y m a ] - Max & Michael Egger
Rating: [comments and votes]
USB-LCD - Another LCD Interface, Low Cost
This is another project connecting LC Displays via USB. This one emphasizes low cost and comes with a driver for Windows XP as well as Linux. A German description is available here.

http://ast.m-faq.de/USB-LCD/USB-LCD_en.htm
Author: Lukas Koch
Rating: [comments and votes]
Crypto-Boot - a USB Boot Loader
The image on the left is Oleg with his paraglider, he contributed this example project: A boot loader based on V-USB which does code decryption based on Atmel’s Application Note AVR231. Oleg maintains no homepage for the project. It is therefore hosted on the Wiki:

http://vusb.wikidot.com/project:crypto-boot
Author: Oleg Semyonov
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
AVRUSBBoot - USB Boot Loader for ATMega 8
This is another USB boot loader. It is small enough to fit into the 2 kB boot block of an ATMega 8. This boot loader is ideal for prototyping: No need to connect a programmer, just set a jumper and the programmer is built into the target!

http://www.fischl.de/avrusbboot/
Author: Thomas Fischl
Rating: [comments and votes]
AVR-CDC - a USB to Serial Converter
This ingenious project implements the USB Communication Device Class, making use of the operating system’s driver for the device class. No separate driver is needed on the host! Although it goes somewhat beyond the USB specification, it works on all major operating systems.

http://www.recursion.jp/avrcdc/
Author: Osamu Tamura
Rating: [comments and votes]
SNES/NES Gamepad and Atari Joystick to USB Adapter
NES and SNES are gaming consoles. When playing NES and SNES games with an emulator, nothing is better than using the original gamepads. This project converts the NES/SNES interface to USB, emulating a USB joystick. A project update from December 2006 brought support for Atari joysticks. See the project’s News section for a link. An illustrated guide for building a controller for 4 SNES/NES gamepads can be found here and here. There are also instructions for building the adapter without a PCB.

http://www.raphnet.net/electronique/snes_nes_usb/index_en.php
Author: Raphaël Assénat
Rating: [comments and votes]
AVR-Doper - an STK500 Compatible AVR Programmer
AVR-Doper is an STK500 compatible In-System Programmer (ISP) and High Voltage Serial Programmmer (HVSP). It comes with a built-in USB to Serial adaptor to connect directly to USB.

https://www.obdev.at/products/vusb/avrdoper.html
Author: Objective Development Software GmbH
Rating: [comments and votes]
PPM RC to USB Interface
This project is a USB joystick controlled by a PPM radio remote control transmitter. There are a lot of such projects around based on different MCUs and USB drivers. But this one is Open Source. It provides very accurate PPM handling and a number of filtering options. Home constructors will like the optional servo tester mode and ADC interface instead of PPM for self-made control boxes.

http://vusb.wikidot.com/project:ppm-rc-to-usb-interface
Author: Oleg Semyonov
Rating: [comments and votes]
C64 Keyboard
This project implements a full-blown USB keyboard based on the keyboard matrix of a Commodore 64. The fun in this is that you can put a state of the art miniature PC into a C64 breadbox. Technically, it demonstrates how a real USB keyboard can be implemented with V-USB.

http://symlink.dk/electro/c64key/
Author: Mikkel Holm Olsen
Rating: [comments and votes]
USB-LED-Fader
USB-LED-Fader can control up to 8 LEDs with individual brightness waveforms. Its command line tool can easily be integrated into scripts to implement a status display for computer load, mailbox status, network load, video recording software or similar background tasks.

http://www.schatenseite.de/usb-led-fader_en.html
Author: Ronald Schaten
Rating: [comments and votes]
i2c-tiny-usb
This project is a tiny low-cost I2C bus adapter. It is meant to replace bit-banging adapters for the parallel port. Advantages are built-in power supply, less CPU load and a very low number of components. The image shows an example application with a DS1621 temperature sensor.

http://www.harbaum.org/till/i2c_tiny_usb/
Author: Till Harbaum
Rating: [comments and votes]
USB-Servo
This device controls a servo over USB. Potential applications are only limited by your imagination. The image shows a mouse pointer finder, similar to the classic x-eyes application on X-Windows.

http://www.schatenseite.de/usb-servo_en.html
Author: Ronald Schaten
Rating: [comments and votes]
3DP-Vert
For many people, Microsoft’s Sidewinder 3D Pro is the only joystick they ever want to use. Unfortunately, most modern computers don’t have a Game Port which is required to connect this joystick. 3DP-Vert allows you to connect the Sidewinder 3D Pro via USB.

http://code.google.com/p/sw3dprousb/
Author: Grendel
Rating: [comments and votes]
USB-Servo 2
A second USB servo controller. This one extends Ronald Schaten’s USB-Servo to 6 servos with a separate supply. It was designed to control the servos of a robot.

http://www.societyofrobots.com/member_tutorials/node/25
Author: Duncan Law
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
USBJoy
This project is primarily for Russian speaking users. It’s similar to the SNES/NES gamepad to USB adapter above, but connects to the following consoles: Dendy (Russian NES), SEGA Mega Drive-II, PlayStation and PlayStation-2. You can use these gamepads with game console emulators and computer games.

http://vusb.wikidot.com/project:usbjoy
Author: Sergey Ryumik
Rating: [comments and votes]
xu1541
C64 floppies can only be read by Commodore floppy drives. Unfortunately, these drives cannot be directly connected to modern PCs. This project is an adapter which connects the VC 1541 floppy drive via USB.

http://www.trikaliotis.net/xu1541
Author: Till Harbaum and Spiro R. Trikaliotis
Rating: [comments and votes]
N64/Gamecube Adapter
This is another variation of the NES and SNES gaming console adapter. This one turns a Nintendo 64 or a Gamecube controller into a USB joystick.

http://www.raphnet.net/electronique/gc_n64_usb/index_en.php
Author: Raphaël Assénat
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
IRMouse
IRMouse registers as ordinary mouse to the host computer, but it’s controlled by codes of an IR remote control instead of physical movements. You can assign IR codes to x/y movements and mouse buttons.

https://github.com/ksz2k/irmouse
Author: Krzysiek Szczuka
Rating: [comments and votes]
Magnetic Mouse
This is a very interesting college project demonstrating the implementation of a drawing tablet based on hall effect sensors. Lots of background documentation!

http://instruct1.cit.cornell.edu/courses/ee476/FinalProjects/s2007/ayl26_ym82/ayl26_ym82/index.htm
Author: Yiyin Ma and Abby Lin
Rating: [comments and votes]
InfraHID
This project is a general IR remote control to keyboard and mouse event converter. You can assign keystrokes, mouse movements and mouse button clicks to the codes sent by an IR remote control.

https://sites.google.com/site/vamposdecampos2/infrahid
Author: Alex Badea
Rating: [comments and votes]
USBTenki - Environmental Data Acquisition
This is a multi channel data acquisition system for various types of sensors. It’s been developed to record temperature, humidity and atmospheric pressure.

http://www.raphnet.net/electronique/usbtenki/index_en.php
Author: Raphaël Assénat
Rating: [comments and votes]
4x16 LCD on USB
This is another LCD controller for the USB, this time stripped down to the bare minimum. The code fits into 2k flash of an ATTiny2313. Since the circuit has 5 V levels on USB, it won’t work with all hosts.

http://www.delta7.de/projekte.php#usblcd
Author: Bernhard Schulte
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
The Lord of the Keys - Store Passwords on SmartCards
This password database emulates a USB keyboard to send passwords to the computer. It’s the winner of a Honorable Mention Award in Circuit Cellar’s AVR design contest. An interesting mix of technologies with excellent documentation!

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/75780951/The_Lord_Of_The_Keys.pdf
Author: Carlos Cossio
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
EasyLogger - ATTiny45 Without Crystal
This project demonstrates how to take advantage of the internal RC oscillator of the ATTiny45 to get more free I/O pins. It’s a data logger which takes a voltage sample every second and sends it to the PC, emulating a USB keyboard where the value is typed.

https://www.obdev.at/products/vusb/easylogger.html
Author: Objective Development Software GmbH
Rating: [comments and votes]
BootloadHID - Another USB Boot Loader
This boot loader takes advantage of the HID kernel drivers on Windows: It works without installing libusb-win32. Other than that, it’s quite similar to Thomas Fischl’s AVRUSBBoot.

https://www.obdev.at/products/vusb/bootloadhid.html
Author: Objective Development Software GmbH
Rating: [comments and votes]
Extreme Feedback Device
Want to have more interesting feedback when you build your software project, not just "build succeeded" or an error message? This device makes software development more fun, especially during winter season.

http://www.vandenbrande.com/wp/?page_id=15
Author: Johan Van den Brande
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
USB2LPT - USB to Parallel Port Converter
This USB to Parallel Port converter is not only of practical use, it also demonstrates how the low power sleep mode demanded by the USB specification can be implemented with V-USB.

http://www-user.tu-chemnitz.de/~heha/bastelecke/Rund%20um%20den%20PC/USB2LPT/ul-15.htm.en
Author: Henrik Haftmann
Rating: [comments and votes]
SNES Joypad
This is another implementation of Raphaël Assénat’s idea of an SNES to USB adaptor. This one is smaller in size (eight pin AVR) and uses less components. The description is available in German only.

http://hobbyelektronik.org/wiki/index.php?title=SNES-Joypad
Author: Christof Rueß
Rating: [comments and votes]
Miniature Robot
This is a miniature robot programmed via USB. Most of the documentation is in French, but the Readme file in the project download (search for "avr-usb" in the linked description) is in English.

http://www.cours.polymtl.ca/inf1995/fichiers/
Author: Matthew Khouzam
Rating: [comments and votes]
AVRminiProg - Compatible with Atmel’s USB Programmers
This spectacular programmer aims at compatibility with Atmel’s USB programmers such as AVRISP mkII, JTAGICE mkII and AVRDragon. The firmware can even be configured to run on other hardware such as e.g. USBasp.

http://www.simonqian.com/en/AVRminiProg/
Author: Simon Qian
Rating: [comments and votes]
gnusb - a Platform for Controllers and Sensors
Gnusb is a platform for building USB controllers - like mixers, foot pedals and the like - primarily for use with Max/MSP or pure-data.

http://gnusb.sourceforge.net/
Author: [ a n y m a ] - Max & Michael Egger
Rating: [comments and votes]
RemoteSensor 2 - Wireless Temperature and Humidity Sensor
An improved version of Objective Development’s RemoteSensor reference project. Since it is based on Sensirion’s SHT11 sensor chip, no calibration is required and the transmitter is much simpler and smaller.

http://www.tahina.priv.at/electronics.html
Author: Christian Mock
Rating: [comments and votes]
USB-DDS - Frequency Generator 0 to 40 MHz
This Direct Digital Synthesizer generates sine waves from 0 to 40 MHz with millihertz resolution under computer control. It is useful for amateur radio operators as a reference oscillator.

http://www.mydarc.de/dg8saq/AVR-USB/
Author: Thomas Baier
Rating: [comments and votes]
USBaspLoader - Bootloader Emulating USBasp
This boot loader requires no separate upload tool on the host because it emulates USBasp. Since AVRDUDE can be used for uploading, it can be integrated into the Arduino development environment. For an ATTiny boot loader see Micronucleus.

https://www.obdev.at/vusb/usbasploader.html
Author: Objective Development Software GmbH
Rating: [comments and votes]
unzap - Universal IR Receiver and Transmitter
This IR Receiver and Transmitter with 2 MB of flash memory for IR code storage has numerous applications, some of them are a bit subversive...

http://www.lochraster.org/unzap/
Author: Alexander Neumann
Rating: [comments and votes]
DeVis - Visualizer Plugin for WinAmp 5
This project is an LED based visualizer which comes with a plugin for WinAmp 5.

http://www.delta7.de/projekte.php#devis
Author: Bernhard Schulte
Rating: [comments and votes]
USB Relays - Controlling Relays with USB
This project helps you automate things: It has 6 relays for controlling mains voltage devices and 4 opto-coupled inputs. Ulrich’s description is in German only.

http://www.ulrichradig.de/home/index.php/avr/usb-relaiskarte
Author: Ulrich Radig
Rating: [comments and votes]
SpiffChorder - Full PC Keyboard with only 7 Keys
Contrary to a normal (QWERTY style) keyboard, a character on a Chording Keyboard is represented by pressing multiple keys simultaneously. Good for fast one-handed typing!

http://symlink.dk/projects/spiffchorder/
Author: Mikkel Holm Olsen
Rating: [comments and votes]
USB7 - 6 Digit 7-Segment Display
This LED 7-segment display works like a serial terminal. Just send data to a virtual COM port and have it displayed.

http://spiffie.org/kits/usb7
Author: Kevin Bralten
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
YAKE - Yet Another Keyboard Emulator
This is a hardware tool for application testing. It sends predefined keystrokes to the PC with a selectable rate.

http://www.krezac.net/avr/yake-en
Author: Kamil Rezac
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
Hit Counter
You have this very cool new website and are waiting for people to view it? Then this is the right gadget for you: a physical LED display showing the hit count. Technically, this is an 8 digit USB controlled 7 segment LED display.

http://www.bobhobby.com/2008/04/22/usb-physical-hit-counter-based-on-avr-attiny25/
Author: Bob carret
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
redKontroll - a Versatile Input Device
This is an HID compliant custom controller with 5 rotary encoders, 5 push buttons, 2 softpots and 3 capacitive touch sensors. It can be used to control sound and video software.

http://www.fredrikolofsson.com/pages/hardware.html
Author: Fredrik Olofsson
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
xxxxx-HID
xxxxx-HID provides a well documented USB sensor input solution, aimed primarily at artists working with audio and video and using free software such as Pure Data or SuperCollider. Six analog inputs (10 bits resolution) and four digital or pushbutton inputs are provided on a simple to etch and assemble board.

http://1010.co.uk/avrhid.html
Author: Martin Howse
Rating: [comments and votes]
AVR-MIDI - a Class Compliant MIDI Device
This MIDI controller uses the same tricks as AVR-CDC to implement a MIDI class compliant USB device. It does not require special host side drivers, but since it goes beyond the specification for low speed devices, it may not work on some hosts.

http://cryptomys.de/horo/AVR-MIDI/
Author: Martin Homuth-Rosemann
Rating: [comments and votes]
Ginger
Ginger is a physical computing platform similar to Gainer (which is based on a PSoC chip). You can read digital and analog inputs and set output data, all over USB. Ginger’s website is currently in Japanese only, but Readme file in the project is in English.

http://web.mac.com/kuwatay/morecat_lab./ginger.html
Author: Yoshitaka Kuwata
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
rump - The Model M
The Model M was one of IBM’s most popular keyboards. Some people still prefer this it over all others, but modern PCs don’t have a PS2 connector anymore. This project shows how to replace the original controller with a USB capable circuit.

http://mg8.org/rump/
Author: Chris Lee
Rating: [comments and votes]
HandUsb - Data Glove Interface
An alternative controller for the Pinch Glove fingertip contact glove. Something as futuristic as a data glove should connect through USB, not RS232 as in the original design!

http://www-user.tu-chemnitz.de/~heha/mb-iwp/Datenhandschuh/
Author: Henrik Haftmann
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
Dulcimer - The Model M Again
This coincidence proves how popular the Model M still is: Another replacement electronics to give USB connectivity to IBM’s old keyboard, developed at the same time as rump (see above) and without knowing about the parallel effort. This version supports the keyboard’s LEDs as well.

http://www.schatenseite.de/dulcimer.html?L=2
Author: Ronald Schaten
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
Haunted USB Cable
This is something to be built during long evenings or rainy weekends in March, so that it’s ready when April 1st approaches. The device implements a keyboard and drives the user mad by sending random keystrokes from time to time.

http://imakeprojects.com/Projects/haunted-usb-cable/
Author: Donald P
Rating: [comments and votes]
AetherSense - No-Touch Joystick
This one-axis joystick is based on ultrasonic distance sensors. It has been built especially for the Aether project, a tabletop gaming system.

http://lookmanohands.org/
Author: Spencer Russell
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
ZX-USBJoy
With this project you can connect up to two ZX Spectrum joysticks to your computer (which runs a ZX Spectrum emulator, of course). The website is in Russian. You need to enter 6 digits (a CAPTCHA) to download the project.

http://narod.ru/disk/1762604000/ZX_USBJoy_20071020.zip.html
Author: Sergey Ryumik
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
USBGame12 - an Interface for Simple Joysticks
This interface offers 12 digigal inputs presented to the operating system as USB joystick with 4 directional buttons and 8 general purpose buttons. It can be used to connect historic joysticks or for general purpose digital inputs.

http://www.raphnet.net/electronique/usb_game12/index_en.php
Author: Raphaël Assénat
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
Intellivision to USB Converter
This converter connects a Mattel Intellivision controller to your PC.

http://www.raphnet.net/electronique/intellivusb/index_en.php
Author: Raphaël Assénat
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
AVR IR Downloader - Upgrade Firmware via IR
This project makes firmware upgrades easy: The target has an Infrared receiver and the data is sent via IR. The IR transmitter is based on V-USB.

http://avrirdownloader.wordpress.com/
Author: Hendy Eka H. and Arief Mardhi B.
Rating: [comments and votes]
Pepper-MIDI - Control SX-150 Synth via MIDI
Who said that analog synths have no MIDI interface? This project adds MIDI to the Gakken SX-150 synthesizer.

http://web.me.com/kuwatay/morecat_lab./Pepper-midi-e.html
Author: Morecat Lab
Rating: [comments and votes]
FunkUSB - DCF77 Receiver with USB
This project is a radio clock receiver (DCF77) which connects to the host computer via USB. The DCF77 signal can be received in Germany and neighbouring countries.

http://www-user.tu-chemnitz.de/~heha/bastelecke/Rund%20um%20den%20PC/FunkUsb/
Author: Henrik Haftmann
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
ATMega-USB-Dingens
This is a kind of prototyping board. It’s basically an ATMega8 with USB and all other pins available at connectors. "Dingens" is a German slang word for "thingy".

http://www.infolexikon.de/blog/atmega-usb-thingy/
Author: Tobias Weis
Rating: [comments and votes]
1-Key-Keyboard
This is the easiest way to interface a single switch to a computer. On- and off-events are translated to keystrokes of a virtual keyboard. An updated version allows up to 4 keys.

http://blog.flipwork.nl/?x=entry:entry081009-142605
Author: Flip van den Berg
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
Slide Show Presenter
Those old slide-projectors had a handy button with a cable where you could advance to the next slide or go one back. This project implements this type of controller for Powerpoint (and similar) presentations.

http://tuxgraphics.org/electronics/200810/avr-usb-slideshow-presenter.shtml
Author: Guido Socher
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
usbmot
Usbmot controls up to two small motors using the L293D. The speed of the motors is controlled with PWM.

http://andreas.goelzer.de/usbmot
Author: Andreas Gölzer
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
WiSHABI - Accelerometer-Based HID
WiSHABI is a wireless, single-handed, accelerometer-based, USB-HID compliant PC interface. It implements mouse and keyboard functionality.

http://vusb.wikidot.com/project:wishabi
Author: Jadon Clews
Rating: [comments and votes]
PS2USB - Sony PlayStation Adapter
No, this is not a converter for PS2 keyboards or mice. This project converts Sony PlayStation 1 or 2 controllers into a USB joystick.

http://vusb.wikidot.com/project:ps2usb
Author: Primož Kranjec
Rating: [comments and votes]
Temperature Probe
This is a simple USB thermometer for data logging. The host side software is written in Ruby, demonstrating how to use USB devices in Ruby.

http://www.stahlke.org/dan/usb-temperature/
Author: Dan Stahlke
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
USBTemp
A simple temperature logger based on the DS18S20 chip.

http://code.google.com/p/mikrowerk/wiki/USBTemp
Author: Mathias Dalheimer
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
SUN Type5 Keyboard Converter
You have an old Sun Sparc Station keyboard and want to use it on your modern PC? Use this converter turn it into a standard USB keyboard!

http://gis.sakura.ne.jp/sunkey/sunkey_e.html
Author: IIDA Tetsushi
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
TiltStick
This is an accelerometer based joystick. It adds quite a lot of fun to games like Enigma when played on a handheld device.

http://www.harbaum.org/till/tiltstick/index.shtml
Author: Till Harbaum
Rating: [comments and votes]
redKontroll2 - Controlling Video and Audio Software
This is another HID compliant custom controller for controlling sound and video. This time with 4 potentiometers, one slider, one light sensor, 16 push buttons and one switch.

http://www.fredrikolofsson.com/pages/hardware.html
Author: Fredrik Olofsson
Rating: [comments and votes]
USB-TWI - a Two Wire Interface
This Two Wire Interface comes with two application examples: A stepper motor controller and a data logger.

http://usb-twi.sourceforge.net
Author: Claudio Montecucco
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
Chenillard
Chenillard is a device that you secretly plug into a victim’s computer. It flashes the LEDs of the computer’s keyboard in sequence. Useless, but good for April jokes...

http://vusb.wikidot.com/project:chenillard
Author: Sylvain Davaine
Rating: [comments and votes]
usb-Relay
Simple but effective: A power switch controlled through USB.

http://johannes.krude.de/projects/usb-Relay/
Author: Johannes Krude
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
THSusb - PLD programming via JTAG
This device loads SVF (Serial Vector Format) files and uploads them to a JTAG interface. It can be used to program devices such as CPLDs.

http://ths.spacequadrat.de/thsusb.html
Author: Thomas Scheuermann
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
avrBridge
avrBridge is basically a firmware which makes the AVR’s register block directly accessible to the host. The host can directly configure timers, set I/O pins, use the UART etc.

http://ka010.wordpress.com/projects/avrbridge/
Author: Kai Aras
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
AVR Stick - a Simple Data Logger
This is an improved version of EasyLogger which is also available as pre-assembled unit.

http://www.sparkfun.com/commerce/product_info.php?products_id=9147
Author: SparkFun Electronics
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
USB Scope - cheapest dual trace scope in the galaxy
It has not the sample rate of a real digital storage scope, but it’s great for low speed signals.

http://yveslebrac.blogspot.com/2008/10/cheapest-dual-trace-scope-in-galaxy.html
Author: Yves Lebrac
Rating: [comments and votes]
LED Notifier - notifies on e-mail, Twitter, Pidgin
Instructions for modding an Asus EeePc with an additional LED, which can be used to notify about incoming e-mail, twits and messages.

http://www.justblair.co.uk/the-attiny45-usb-led-e-mail-twitter-and-pidgin-notifier.html
Author: Blair Thompson
Rating: [comments and votes]
Terminal Keyboard - a Serial Terminal as Keyboard
This device converts any serial terminal (or terminal emulator) into a USB keyboard.

http://hobby-electrons.sourceforge.net/projects/terminal-keyboard/
Author: Neil Stockbridge
Rating: [comments and votes]
NES Gamepad on ATTiny45
This is another variation of Raphaël Assénat’s SNES/NES gamepad adapter. This version is based on a small 8 pin AVR and uses the internal RC oscillator instead of a crystal.

http://www.judevine.net/content/nes-game-pad
Author: Chris Judevine
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
Retro Adapter V2
The Retro Adapter V2 connects almost any type of game controller to USB. It works with PCs running Windows/Linux and with Apple Macs, as well as the Sony Playstation 3.

http://denki.world3.net/retro_v2.html
Author: Paul Qureshi
Rating: [comments and votes]
SUPERPLAY
SUPERPLAY is an arcade joystick controller. It supports multiple games consoles and PC/USB, and has an expansion bus for extra modules such as an LCD display or LED lighting controller. It is follow-up to the Dreamcast USB Arcade Joystick.

http://denki.world3.net/superplay.html
Author: Paul Qureshi
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
Quick Launch Keys
Many keyboards now come with shortcut keys for starting a web browser or controlling volume. This project extends every keyboard by this functionality.

http://denki.world3.net/quicklaunch.html
Author: Paul Qureshi
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
EE-Prog
This is a programmer for all 24c type EEPROMs (24c01 to 24c1024).

http://xldrx.com/ee-prog/
Author: Amir Hashemi
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
MamePanel
This project implements a Mame panel which includes controls for Mame games by joystick and mouse, Mame and operating system user interface by Keyboard and volume control.

http://vusb.wikidot.com/project:mamepanel
Author: Andreas Oberdorfer
Rating: [comments and votes]
USBTenki-mux
This is an extension of Raphaël Assénat’s USBTenki to 16 independent temperature sensors.

http://www.schmut.com/other-stuff/usbtenki-mux/usbtenki-mux
Author: Mario Theodoridis
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
openchord-guitar
Instead of playing Guitar Hero / Rock Band with a controller that simply looks like a guitar, you can now play on the real deal – moving your fingers along the strings of a real guitar, making real chords, strumming with a real pick.

http://code.google.com/p/openchord-guitar/
Author: Alan Chatham
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
usbddr
You can have a lot of fun playing Dance Dance Revolution - until your dance pad breaks. Then it’s time to build yourself a more stable dance pad based on an ATMega8.

http://vusb.wikidot.com/project:usbddr
Author: Stefan Rehm
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
USB Line Switch
Turn on and off loads such as computer peripherals with one mouse click. This is a commercial product, available as construction set or completely assembled device.

http://products.reworld.eu/uls.htm
Author: Reusch Elektronik
USB Radio Clock
This is a compact DCF77 radio clock receiver with USB interface. It features an internal real time clock as second time source. This is a commercial product, available as construction set or completely assembled device.

http://products.reworld.eu/usbdcf77.htm
Author: Reusch Elektronik
USBLotIO - Lots of I/O Pins
This is a very simple and easily expandable I/O adapter. It uses shift registers for a virtually unlimited amount of I/O lines. Description is in German only.

http://hobbyelektronik.org/w/index.php?title=USBLotIO
Author: Christof Rueß
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
HDBeamer
This do-it-yourself beamer uses V-USB in the microcontroller which does temperature control and counting hours of operation. Description is in German only.

http://www.ringwelt.de/HDBeamer/HDBeamer4b.html
Author: Ralf Tralow
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
USB DotMatrix Display
Have fun with a 5x7 dot matrix display (video on website)! This controller circuit has an incredibly low component count.

http://tobiscorner.floery.net/projects/avr/misc-avr/usb-dotmatrix-display/143
Author: Tobias Flöry
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
USB DCF77 Receiver
DCF77 is a long wave transmitter in Germany which sends a precise time signal. It can be received in most of Central Europe. This receiver synchronizes your computer’s clock to the DCF77 signal.

http://www.kreuzholzen.de/projects/usb-dcf77-receiver/index_en.html
Author: Jürgen Beisert
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
MIDI Expression Pedal
This pedal is not just a great USB/MIDI device, it also demonstrates how to replace potentiometers with cheap and durable capacitive sensors.

http://wzab.cba.pl/STARE/MIDI/pedal/index.html
Author: Wojciech Zabolotny
Rating: [comments and votes]
Open Crypto-Token
A very cheap device performing Elliptic Curve Cryptography directly on the AVR. The private key is locked in the AVR’s flash memory to protect it from external access.

http://code.google.com/p/opencryptotoken/
Author: Mariusz Kryński
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
PS3negcon
This adapter allows the PS3 to use the NeGcon controller. Those who know the NeGcon will appreciate this project. Others don’t need to...

http://ps3negcon.element42.org/
Author: Mo Evans
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
kazzo
This is a NES (Nintendo Entertainment System) cartridge dumping and copying device. It can also write to flash cartridges.

http://sourceforge.jp/projects/unagi/wiki/kazzo_intro_en
Author: Unagi Kaihatu Kyoudou Kumiai
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
USB Wireless Tilt Mouse
This project explores the possibilities of a mouse controlled by tilt for environments where no flat surface for a conventional mouse is available.

http://people.ece.cornell.edu/land/...s/s2010/ss868_jfe5/ss868_jfe5/index.html
Author: Skyler Schneider, Jack Ellsworth
Rating: [comments and votes]
SCANALOGIC-2 - Logic Analyzer and Signal Generator
Although this Logic Analyzer is a commercial project, the entry level cost (for a kit) is exceptionally low.

http://www.ikalogic.com/scanalogic2/
Author: Ibrahim Kamal
MIDI Drum Trigger
The design goals of this MIDI drum trigger are: Simple, cheap and consisting only of easily available components.

http://wzab.cba.pl/STARE/MIDI/perkusja/index.html
Author: Wojciech Zabolotny
Rating: [comments and votes]
Monaka
This is basically a hardware- and firmware-framework for sensors and signal output with a MIDI and Open Sound Control interface so that it can be easily used for music and multimedia.

http://morecatlab.akiba.coocan.jp/morecat_lab/Monaka-e.html
Author: Yoshitaka Kuwata
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
MOCO/MICO - USB to MIDI Converter
A simple and tiny USB to MIDI converter. It's so small that it fits into the MIDI connector!

http://morecatlab.akiba.coocan.jp/morecat_lab/MOCO-e.html
Author: Yoshitaka Kuwata
Rating: [comments and votes]
PPM2USB - RC Remote Control as Joystick
This device converts the PPM signal of a radio remote control transmitter to USB joystick controls so that you can fly your simulator with the real remote control. It's very similar to Oleg Semyonov's version, but requires less exotic prerequisites.

http://thomaspfeifer.net/ppm2usb_adapter_en.htm
Author: Thomas Pfeifer
Rating: [comments and votes]
Mr Spoony - Two-Servo Coffee Stirrer Robot
A smartphone's accelerometers generate the control signal which is sent over WiFi to a PC, which controls two servos of this robobot via USB.

http://pengu.student.utwente.nl/wordpress/?p=13
Author: Michiel van der Coelen
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
UKI - USB Key Injector
If you know what a keyboard injector is: This is the Pro-Model. A keyboard injector presents itself to the computer as a keyboard. You can imagine the rest.

http://www.nopsecurity.net/UKI1.htm
Author: NOP Security
Rating: [comments and votes]
vusbtiny - ISP Programmer
An AVR ISP programmer stripped down to the bare minimum. An 8 pin AVR, no crystal and a couple of passive components.

http://www.simpleavr.com/avr/vusbtiny
Author: Chris Chung
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
LED Flower
Cool looking flowers with LED light effects, which can be controlled via USB. The site has detailed instructions and offers nice looking PCBs.

http://cccgoe.de/wiki/LED_Flower
Author: Johannes Agricola
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
Speed Fan Regulator
A fan speed regulator for up to 3 fans. It has a temperature sensor uses the fan's RPM feedback pin. The actual regulation algorithm is done on the host CPU.

http://www.12mhz.com/projects/38/53-sfr-eng.html
Author: sinopteek
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
USB Funk - Radio Controlled Power Switch
Ever wanted to switch the power for some devices via USB? This device controls commercial 433 MHz remote control power outlets via USB, saving the wiring paths between your computer and the controlled outlets.

http://www.maltepoeggel.de/?site=usbfunk
Author: Malte Pöggel
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
CCD Spectrometer
This is a low cost, but high quality optical spectrometer. It can be used to measure the spectral distribution of light sources such as LEDs, or for physical analytics to measure absorption spectra.

http://fzu.cz/~dominecf/electronics/usb-spect/usb_spectrometer_dominec.pdf
Author: Filip Dominec
Rating: [comments and votes]
tinyFanduino
Another fan speed regulator for up to 2 fans. Web site and documentation are in Japanese.

http://www.wa.commufa.jp/~fanduino/index.html
Author: Tomonari Sugiyama
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
Burgerking Lamp
This project shows what happens when a passionate hobbyist gets a cheap toy with an LED. It also demonstrates that V-USB projects don't require a PCB :-)

http://www.adlerweb.info/blog/2011/...cking-usb-anschluss-fur-burgerking-lampe
Author: Florian Knodt
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
Indictron - Monitor Continuous Integration Status
This is basically a controller which can switch 16 LEDs arranged in a 4 x 4 array. It comes with a plugin for Cruise Control .Net, a Continuous Integration Server, so that it can visualize the build status for up to four software projects.

http://bytecruft.blogspot.co.at/2011/04/build-system-status-monitor.html
Author: Pedantite
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
FIGnition - Simple 8 Bit Computer with Video
This simple Open Source 8 bit DIY computer with composite video output uses v-usb for firmware upgrades via the USBasp boot loader. The project is featured by the BBC and kits are available for sale.

http://www.fignition.co.uk/
Author: Julian Skidmore
Rating: [comments and votes]
Red Feline Stompbox - USB Guitar Pedal
This is basically a one-key keyboard with a programmable state machine which allows it to offer reasonable semantic richness with only one key.

http://redfelineninja.org.uk/software/rfstompbox.html
Author: Daniel Thompson
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
USB Joystick Adapter
An adapter which connects two 9-pin digital joysticks as USB HID devices.

http://www.hexagons.de/index.php/USB_Joystickadapter
Author: Andreas Paul
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
Web-Controlled Rover with WebCam
This rover can be controlled via a web interface while you can see the world from the rover's perspective through a web cam. It uses v-usb to connect the motor drivers to the main computer.

http://www.homofaciens.de/technics-robots-rover-construction_en_navion.htm
Author: Norbert Heinz
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
uart2kbd - Virtual Keyboard
This is a USB keyboard without keys. Instead of pressing keys, you send it commands over a serial (UART) interface.

https://sourceforge.net/projects/uart2kbd/
Author: Sunjun Kim
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
Stand Alone Temperature/Voltage Logger
Wnat to know how precise your fridge holds its temperature? Just drop this tiny device into it and read out the temperature curve any time later.

http://www.insidegadgets.com/projects/standalone-temperaturevoltage-logger/
Author: Alex
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
Vacuum Fluorescent Display Driver
Many people like these old-style green glowing vacuum fluourescent displays. They are often available for a good price as surplus items. This circuit gives them new life!

https://github.com/ceemos/vfd-fv651g
Author: Marcel Schneider
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
Umlaut Keyboard
Some operating systems make it hard to enter Umlaut characters when a US keyboard is connected. This keyboard amends any keyboard by just the umlaut keys.

http://alpharesearch.de/?page_id=53
Author: Markus Schulz
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
Boxster - USB Gamepad
Boxster is a DIY HID-compliant USB gamepad. It supports up to 18 buttons and is fully plug-and-play - no drivers needed.

http://www.fulhack.org/boxster/index.html
Author: Olof Holmgren
Rating: [comments and votes]
Magnetometer Mouse
This is an absolute pointing device based on a HMC5883L magnetometer. It works similar to a compass. Control the mouse pointer by moving the sensor in the air, pointing at the desired position.

https://github.com/denilsonsa/atmega8-magnetometer-usb-mouse
Author: Denilson Figueiredo de Sá
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
LC Meter
This is a computer controlled measurement instrument which can measure inductance and capacitance, frequency and voltage and it can also synthesize frequencies.

http://vusb.wikidot.com/project:lc-meter-usb
Author: Balogh Barnabás
Rating: [comments and votes]
Retro Adapter
This is yet another adapter for retro-style gamepads. It supports NES, SNES, SEGA Master System, SEGA Mega Drive/Genesis 3-button controller, SEGA Mega Drive/Genesis 6-button controller and Suncom TAC-2.

http://www.fulhack.org/retrodapter/index.html
Author: Olof Holmgren
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
phi-T Control
This is a foot controller for digital guitar effect software. It implements the USB MIDI class and is therefore directly recognized as MIDI device without any additional drivers.

http://philaudio.wordpress.com/projects/phi-t/phi-t-control/
Author: Philipp Bulling
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
Little Wire
This little gadget can be programmed to perform various tasks ranging from an AVR programmer, PWM/servo controller, ADC, I2C interface, SPI interface, UART interface to a 1-wire interface.

http://littlewire.cc/
Author: Ihsan Kehribar
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
ZX81 USB Keyboard
This looks like a Sinclair ZX81, but it is a real USB keyboard, just with the look and feel of a ZX81!

http://tynemouthsoftware.blogspot.co.at/2012/02/arduino-based-zx81-usb-keyboard.html
Author: Dave Curran
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
SPÖKA Night Light
IKEA's SPÖKA resembles a little glowing ghost. This project puts the ghost under USB control.

http://wejp.k.vu/hacks/usb_controlled_spoka_night_light
Author: Johannes Heimansberg
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
USB IR Remote Receiver
A multi-protocol receiver for infrared remote controls.

https://www.mikrocontroller.net/articles/USB_IR_Remote_Receiver
Author: Portisch
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
Case LED - CPU Usage Meter
Yes, this is an article about case modding. But it's not just about cool light effects, the light displays the current CPU load of the computer.

http://cuznersoft.com/wordpress/?p=164
Author: Kevin Cuzner
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
USB GPIO
In the old days, when computers had parallel ports, it was easy to interface prototype hardware with a computer. This project offers an alternative: General purpose I/O pins controlled via USB.

http://www.jenrathbun.com/Electronics/?page_id=759
Author: Tom Struzik
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
USB NES Controller Adapter
Playing NES games on an emulator is half the fun if you don't have the original controller. This adapter converts the NES controller into a USB joystick.

http://www.bidouille.org/elec/usbnesadapter
Author: Victorien Villard
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
USB Volume Control
You're playing music on your computer and somebody wants to talk to you or a phone call comes in. In order to reduce the volume, you must first get around the screen locker, find the audio player application, ... Not anymore, with this gadget!

http://obruboff.ru/usb-volume-control/
Author: Обрубов Виталий
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
RC-5 Remote
This is a USB keyboard controlled by an IR remote control. The firmware understands RC-5 (Philips) remote control codes.

http://www.marwedels.de/malte/usbir/
Author: Malte Marwedel
Rating: [comments and votes]
Password Generator
You fear that people can watch you type your password? Or you always forget it? This device is a virtual keyboard which types your password automatically each time it's plugged in.

http://codeandlife.com/2012/03/03/diy-usb-password-generator/
Author: Joonas Pihlajamaa
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
AVRMIDI
This simple MIDI to USB converter is part of a bigger project, the lad-drum: an electronic drum kit based on AVRs.

http://code.google.com/p/lad-drum/
Author: Adrian Gin
Rating: [comments and votes]
LED Cube
27 LEDs, arranged in a cube 3x3x3, each of them controllable via USB. This is a beginner's project, as it is intended to introduce to soldering at the hobby level.

http://cccgoe.de/wiki/LED_Cube/en
Author: Johannes Agricola
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
BlinkStick
This Open Source mini kit takes the hardware to the bare minimum! A bright RGB LED can be controlled by any host: Linux, Mac, Raspberry Pi or even Windows. Ideal for beginners!

http://http://www.blinkstick.com/
Author: Agile Innovative Ltd
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
Programming Pen
This programmer is also a keyboard: It has a single key to initiate programming while contact pins are pressed down to the PCB.

http://www.anthonyvh.com/2013/04/24/programming-pen-usb-interface/
Author: Anthony Van Herrewege
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
FlyStick
The FlyStick is mostly a passive device: It reflects IR light back to a camera which can then determine the position and rotation of the stick. A microcontroller with V-USB handles two joystick keys on the stick.

http://www-user.tu-chemnitz.de/~heha/mb-iwp/FlyStick/#2
Author: Henrik Haftmann
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
SHT11 - Temperature and Humidity Sensor
This circuit connects an SHT11 temperature and humidity sensor chip via USB. The firmware provides excessive HID self-description and implements proper power management.

http://www-user.tu-chemnitz.de/~heha/bastelecke/Rund%20um%20den%20PC/SHT11/
Author: Henrik Haftmann
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
tinyUSBboard - Arduino Compatible AVR Board
An Arduino compatible prototyping board, so simple that it can easily be built on breadboard! It is not only easy to build, but also cheap due to the tiny bill of materials.

http://matrixstorm.com/avr/tinyusbboard/
Author: Stephan B.
Rating: [comments and votes]
HiCu
An AVR development board with 62 digital I/O pins, 16 inputs for just 22$, based on the ATMega640!

http://www.workinprogress.ca/projects/hicu/
Author: Patrick Sébastien
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
CVpal - USB for Analog Synthesizers
This DIY kit controls analog synthesizers via USB MIDI from your computer, iPad or iPhone. It offers two CV and two gate outputs.

http://mutable-instruments.net/modules/cvpal
Author: Olivier Gillet
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
Party Pushbutton
Technically, this is a mouse with one button and no x/y controls. But the application as a party photo service makes it so useful!

http://www.anthonyvh.com/2013/09/25/party-pushbutton/
Author: Anthony Van Herrewege
Rating: not yet rated [comments and votes]
Tiny AVR JTAG Programmer
A small and inexpensive programmer for all AVRs that supports JTAG programming. Compatible with AVRDUDE programming software.

http://www.embedded-creations.com/projects/tiny-avr-jtag-programmer/
Author: Louis Beaudoin
Rating: not yet rated

#4418704 - 05/01/18 11:51 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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10 Alternatives to Steam for Buying Cheap PC Games


very nice links.

Like this at Gamersgate some flight games under $1:
https://www.gamersgate.com/simulator?filter=mygames,offers,cheapest&state=available
Quote

Wings of Honour
$1.00
Buy
-80%
$4.99
Combat Wings
$0.75
Buy
-85%
$4.99
Jet Storm: Modern Dogfights
$1.00
Buy
-80%
$4.99
Wings of Honour: Battles of the Red Baron
$1.00
Buy
-80%
$4.99
Combat Wings: Battle of Britain

#4428806 - 07/04/18 12:13 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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from Ubuntu Linux-powered Dell Precision 7530 and 7730 'Developer Edition' laptops finally available
[Linked Image]
Quote

...The Dell Precision 7530 and 7730, as they are called, are 15-inch and 17-inch laptops, respectively.

"When it comes to pure power, these machines are unmatched. In fact, the 7730 is also the first AI/ML ready mobile workstation available on the market. Both models feature 8th generation Intel Core and Xeon Processors with up to 6 cores as well as AMD Radeon Pro and NVIDIA Quadro professional graphics," says Canonical.

...

The Ubuntu-maker further says, "The latest Dell Precision Developer Editions are available with up to 128GB of system memory and SuperSpeed memory of 3200MHz, up to 6TB of PCIe SSD storage on the 7530 and 8TB on the 7730, as well as single cable docking and Thunderbolt 3 connectivity. Additional add-ons and configurations include an external eGPU chassis, a larger battery, and the option to upgrade to a 4K UHD IGZO display with 100 percent color gamut."

If you want to buy your own such laptop, the 15-inch 7530 can be had here with a starting price of $1,091.14. The 17-inch 7730 is found here -- its beginning price is higher at $1,371.37. Keep in mind, the default operating system is Windows 10, so you must manually select Ubuntu. This will lower the starting price -- bye, Windows tax!



Last edited by FsFOOT; 07/04/18 12:15 AM.
#4436397 - 08/30/18 05:09 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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You can now install Windows 95 on Windows, Linux and Mac

from ghacks page and bleeping computer page about it.

Originally Posted by bleeeping computer

"I put Windows 95 into an Electron app that now runs on macOS, Windows, and Linux. It's a terrible idea that works shockingly well. I'm so sorry," developer Felix Rieseberg writes in a tweet.

If you're interested, you can visit the GitHub page to download Windows 95 Electron app package for Windows, Mac or Linux. If you've got a Windows computer, you would need to download the Windows 95 Setup exe and double-click the app to use it. In a matter of minutes, your computer will be running a full-featured Windows 95 operating system.


Originally Posted by ghacks

Windows95 is a packaged copy of Microsoft's classic Windows 95 operating system that is running in an Electron application.

The package is available for Windows, Linux and Mac devices, and can be downloaded from the project website.

The release has a size of about 100 Megabytes; Windows users need to download the 64-bit version of the Windows95 distribution to get started.

It is just a matter of double-clicking on the downloaded executable file to run the program. The start screen displays several important options. You can click on "Start Windows 95" to launch the operating system, reset the machine to start anew, insert a floppy disk, or discard the current state and boot from scratch.


I have not tried it yet,

Disclaimer: I have no connection with the developer and don't know about any legalities related or if the developer has any license for this from Microsoft. I would assume this is some kind of Demo and ight not even be a complete version?

#4447731 - 11/09/18 05:25 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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AMD announces end of 32-bit video driver support

from https://www.ghacks.net/2018/10/26/amd-announces-end-of-32-bit-video-driver-support/

Quote

Japanese gaming website 4Gamer reports that AMD has discontinued support for 32-bit drivers for the company's graphics cards.

The company put 32-bit support for AMD drivers on Windows into legacy support. AMD customers who use 32-bit Windows operating systems may continue to use the latest 32-bit driver released by the company for its video cards but won't receive any more updates for it.

The only exception to the rule is that AMD may patch critical issues that are discovered in the near future. Whether that means critical security issues, stability issues, or issues with individual games is unclear at this point in time.

... "AMD Radeon Software support for Windows operating system has been moved to a legacy support mode - we are not planning to support x32-bit Windows operating systems in future driver releases. This change enables AMD to dedicate valuable engineering resources to Developing New Features and Enhancements for Graphics Products Based on the Latest X64-Bit Windows Based Operating Systems."

Last edited by FsFOOT; 11/09/18 05:26 AM.
#4457917 - 01/19/19 07:51 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Check Have I Been Pwned database for KeePass passwords.. Locally

Please note; Locally means offline!

Originally Posted by ghacks.net

Check all KeePass passwords against the Have I Been Pwned database locally

KeePass users can do the same, but locally. Here is what is needed for that:

You need a copy of KeePass - https://keepass.info/
Download the latest version of the KeePass plugin HIPB Offline Check - https://github.com/mihaifm/HIBPOfflineCheck
KeePass supports lots of plugins that may improve security and other functionality - (see) https://www.ghacks.net/2012/04/08/keepass-plugins-that-improve-the-password-managers-functionality/
Download the latest SHA-1 (ordered by hash) password database file from Have I Been Pwned - (site) https://haveibeenpwned.com/Passwords

Place the plugin file in the KeePass plugin folder. The plugin is open source and you may build it from scratch and vet it if you have the skills.

Installed copies of KeePass are found under C:\Program Files (x86)\KeePass by default.

Extract the password database file and place it somewhere on the system. Note that it has a size of 23 Gigabytes in plain text format right now, the download has a size of roughly 9 Gigabytes.

Start the KeePass password manager afterward and select Tools > HIBP Offline Check in the program's interface. Click on Browse and select the password database file that you extracted to the system.

You may change other parameters, e.g. the column name in KeePass or the text that is displayed for secure and insecure passwords.

Last but not least, select View > Configure Columns, and activate the Have I Been Pwned column to display the findings of the check in the interface.
Checking KeePass passwords against the Have I Been Pwned database

keepass password check

You have multiple options to check passwords against the database file.

- Double-click on the password field of any entry to check it.
- Select multiple items, right-click on the selection and pick Selected Entries > Have I Been Pwned database.

The plugin checks any updated password against the database automatically. The plugin checks the password's hash against the hash database to determine if it has been leaked.

A hit does not necessarily mean that the password is known to third-parties as it depends on the password's strength and the capabilities of the third-party to decrypt it.



note: this is for Keepass for Windows- not Linux.

I'm looking into if similar for KeepassX on Linux?

Links:
ghacks page - https://www.ghacks.net/2019/01/18/c...-the-have-i-been-pwned-database-locally/

KeePass - https://keepass.info/

HIPB Offline Check - https://github.com/mihaifm/HIBPOfflineCheck

Have I Been Pwned - (site) https://haveibeenpwned.com/Passwords

#4459398 - 01/31/19 05:50 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Run Linux Apps on Your Chromebook

from LinuxInsider.com Jack M. Germain article Should You Run Linux Apps on Your Chromebook

Quote
Linux apps now can run in a Chromebook's Chrome OS environment. However, the process can be tricky, and it depends on your hardware's design and Google's whims.

It is somewhat similar to running Android apps on your Chromebook, but the Linux connection is far less forgiving. If it works in your Chromebook's flavor, though, the computer becomes much more useful with more flexible options.

Still, running Linux apps on a Chromebook will not replace the Chrome OS. The apps run in an isolated virtual machine without a Linux desktop.

If you are not familiar with any Linux distribution, your only learning curve involves getting familiar with a new set of computing tools. That experience can pique interest in a full Linux setup on a non-Chromebook device.

Why tool around with adding Linux apps to the Chromebook world? One reason is that now you can. That response may only suit Linux geeks and software devs looking to consolidate their work platform, though.

Want a better reason? For typical Chromebook users, Linux apps bring a warehouse of software not otherwise available to Chromebooks. Similarly, the Google Play Store brought a collection of apps to the Chromebook that had been beyond the limitations of the Chrome Web Store for Android phone and tablet users. The Debian Linux repository expands the software library even more on the Chromebook...


Quote
All Chromebooks Are Not Alike


Quote

... Basic Requirements

Installing Linux apps requires your Chromebook to be running Chrome OS 69 or later. To check, do this:

Click your profile picture in the lower-right corner.
Click the Settings icon.
Click the Hamburger icon in the upper-left corner.
Click "About Chrome OS."
Click "Check for updates."

Even with Chrome OS 69 or newer installed, other factors determine your Chromebook's suitability to run Linux apps. For example, Linux runs on Chromebooks with an operating system based on the Linux 4.4 kernel. Some older Chromebooks running Linux 3.14 will be retrofitted with Crostini support. Others will not.

According to Google's documentation notes https://chromium.googlesource.com/chromiumos/docs/+/master/containers_and_vms.md#old-kernels , any Chromebook outfitted with the Intel Bay Trail Atom processors will not support Linux apps. That seems to be the reason for my Asus C302CA failing the Linux suitability test.

Other bugaboos include 32-bit ARM CPUs. Also a negative factor are firmware issues, limited storage and RAM capacities.

Overall, few current Chromebooks have the basic hardware needed: Crostini, kernel 3.18 based on the Glados baseboard with the Skylake SoC, and an adequate processor. Those basic system requirements could change as Google engineers fine-tune the Crostini technology. Of course, newer Chromebook models no doubt will become available as the Crostini Project moves beyond it current beta phase.

Here is a list https://www.xda-developers.com/chromebooks-linux-app-support/ of Chromebooks that are expected to receive upgrades OTA to support Linux Apps eventually.

Even if your Chromebook seems to have all of the required hardware and lets you activate Crostini support, Google specifically must enable one critical piece of technology to let you run Linux. This is the major rub with the process of putting Linux apps on earlier model Chromebooks.

Google also must have enabled the Linux VM for your hardware. Find out if your Chromebook has been blessed by the Google gods after completing the channel change and flag activation: Open Chrome OS' built-in shell, crosh; then run this shell command --

vmc start termina

If you get a message saying that vmc is not available, your quest to put Linux apps on that particular Chromebook is over.

You can skip the crosh test if you do not see "Linux (Beta)" listed on the Chrome OS Settings panel (chrome://settings). Linux will not run on your Chromebook, at least not until Google pushes an update to it. If you do see "Linux Beta" listed below the Google Play Store in the settings panel, click on the label to enable the rest of the process.
First Steps

Some models that can run Crostini include newer Intel-powered Chromebooks from Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, Lenovo and Samsung. Check this source https://www.reddit.com/r/Crostini/wiki/getstarted/crostini-enabled-devices
for a crowdsourced list of supported Chromebooks.

If your Chromebook supports Crostini and is new enough, Crostini support already may be installed in the stable channel by default. In that case, change the flag in the Chrome OS [chrome://flags] on the Chrome browser's address line to enable Crostini.

Otherwise, you will have to apply several steps to get all of the working pieces on the Chromebook. This can include switching your Chromebook from the stable update channel to the developer channel or the Beta channel, depending on the hardware and the make/model. You also will have to download special software using commands entered into a terminal window.

If you have a recent Chromebook model with built-in Linux apps support, you will see "Linux Beta" listed in the left column of the Settings Panel [chrome://settings]. All you have to do is click on the label and follow the prompts to enable the Linux apps functionality.

ASUS Chromebook Flip C213SA Linux terminal and Geany Linux app
The Linux terminal and Geany Linux app display in the Chrome OS menu along with Chrome and Android apps.

If your Chromebook is not already set with Linux enabled, first, switch it to the developer channel and then enable the Crostini flag. Here is how to do each step.

Do this to change Chromebook modes:

Sign in to your Chromebook with the owner account.
Click your account photo.
Click Settings.
At the top left, click Menu.
Scroll down and click "About Chrome OS."
Click "Detailed build information."

Next to "Channel" click the Change channel button and select either Beta or Developer. Then click the Change Channel button. Depending on your Chromebook model, either one could be what your hardware needs. I suggest starting with Developer channel. If that does not install the Linux Beta software, redo the process in the Beta channel.

When the channel change operation is completed, click the "Restart your Chromebook" button.

Caution: You can reverse this process by changing back to the stable channel at any time. Google servers automatically will force a power wash when you restart your Chromebook to return to the stable channel. When you sign into your Chromebook, you will have to do an initial setup just as you did when unboxing it, but Google will restore most if not all of your previous software and settings. Make sure you backed up any documents stored locally, however.

Do this to set the Crostini flag to enabled:

Click on the address bar.
Type chrome://flags and press Enter.
Press Ctrl + F on your keyboard.
Scroll down the list to find "Crostini." Type Crostini in the search bar. Select Enable.
Click Restart at the bottom of the screen.

Final Pieces

At this current phase of Beta Linux on Chromebooks, once you get to seeing "Linux Beta" on the Chrome Settings Panel, you must download the final pieces manually to get and run Linux apps. Open the Chrome settings panel, click the Hamburger icon in the upper-left corner, click Linux (Beta) in the menu. Then click "Turn on."

The Chromebook will download the files it needs. When that process is finished, click the white circle in the lower-left corner to open the app drawer. You will see the Linux Terminal icon. Click it.

Type in the command window and then press the Enter key to get a list of Linux components that need updating:

sudo apt update

Then type in the command window and press the Enter key to upgrade all the components:

sudo apt upgrade

When that's finished, type y to remove excess files. Press Enter.

Now you are ready to download the Linux apps to make using your Chromebook more productive and more flexible. At least for now, you must open the Linux terminal window and enter APT commands to install or remove your selected Linux apps.

This is a simple process. If you have any uncertainty about the commands, check out this helpful user guide.



Last edited by FsFOOT; 01/31/19 05:55 AM. Reason: added this source list hyperlink
#4463040 - 02/26/19 05:29 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Good advice to only run your password manager as needed. Don't keep it open while websurfing, etc. (ironically that is when most of us will most not want to do this ;/ )



The paper Password Managers: Under the Hood of Secrets Management looked at how the password managers 1Password, Dashlane, KeePass and LastPass handle secrets, and if it is possible to retrieve sensitive information.

The researchers https://www.securityevaluators.com/casestudies/password-manager-hacking/ analyzed the three states "not running", "unlocked state", and "locked state". Main conclusions were that all password managers protected data just fine in not running state.

Not running refers specifically to a session in which the installed password manager was not launched or terminated by the user after launch...


See page for more information and some useful user tips for both Windows and Linux platforms.

other related page; How to improve KeePass security

---

btw; What I would I would find more troubling if I were paranoid and using Windows
Quote

The author of KeePass noted some time ago that the Windows operating system may create copies in memory that KeePass has no control over.

Windows and .NET may make copies of the data (in the process memory) that cannot be erased by KeePass






Last edited by FsFOOT; 02/26/19 05:34 AM. Reason: btw; read the last quote
#4464664 - 03/09/19 08:01 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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De-Google your phone, tablet or other Android device.

Originally Posted by LineageOS Android Distribution


A free and open-source operating system for various devices, based on the Android mobile platform ...

...Your data, your rules. With powerful tools such as Privacy Guard, you are in control of what your apps can do whenever you want ...

... updates every month to all our supported devices ...

...open-source apps are here to help you get through the day


Obviously you have to do some research and its AYOR

Be sure to Read the Wiki for more info and check if you have a Supported Device first.

Interesting is that besides many phones and tablets there are some rather unusual devices that are (or were) also supported. Such as the Nexus Player Set top box, various Phablets, and an nVidia Shield Portable Handheld game console (althugh it seems its not updated - but the site gives all such details , warnings.)

I have not tried it so I make no claims but it has some good recommends and solidity in support IMHO.

My present phone is not supported it but am considering getting my next one specifically for this purpose.

Facinating. And powerful it seems for developers:
Quote

Want to do more with your device?
Power users will enjoy Unix command-line utilities.
Android developers will turn any device into the perfect device for apps development thanks to enhanced tools and exclusive APIs


ps. sorry if this reads like an ad - I'd adapted this new format of using post quotes to make the thread cleaner. wink

#4486455 - 08/17/19 01:24 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Visual Basic issues Windows August 2019 Updates


Visual Basic issues in Windows August 2019 Updates
by Martin Brinkmann on August 15, 2019 in Windows - 12 comments

Microsoft added a new known issue to all cumulative updates that it released for Windows client and server versions in August 2019.

The issue states that applications may stop responding if they use Visual Basic 6, Visual Basic for Applications, or Visual Basic Scripting Edition. Apps may throw the error "invalid procedure call error" in that case.

After installing this update, applications that were made using Visual Basic 6 (VB6), macros using Visual Basic for Applications (VBA), and scripts or apps using Visual Basic Scripting Edition (VBScript) may stop responding and you may receive an "invalid procedure call error."


...Organizations -- and the bug affects organizations for the most part -- who run apps or tools that require a Visual Basic flavor may want to block the August 2019 updates until the issue is resolved. Those who have installed the patches already can uninstall the Windows Updates to resolve it.


#4486549 - 08/18/19 05:16 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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First updates released that fix the Windows VB bugs.



Microsoft released updates for Windows 7, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10 version 1709, as well as Windows Server 2008, 2008 R2, 2012 and 2012 R2 that addresses the recently discovered Visual Basic bug.
..

Last edited by FsFOOT; 08/18/19 05:16 AM.
#4486550 - 08/18/19 05:33 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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https://www.linux-magazin.de/

Originally Posted by https://jobs.linux-magazin.de/


Finde Jobs in folgenden Städten:

Aachen
Amsterdam
Augsburg
Barcelona
Bergisch Gladbach
Berlin
Bern
Bielefeld
Bochum
Bonn
Bottrop
Braunschweig
Bremen
Bremerhaven
Brüssel (Belgien)
Cairo
Chemnitz
Darmstadt
Dortmund
Dresden
Duisburg
Düsseldorf
Erfurt
Erlangen
Essen
Frankfurt Am Main
Frankfurt (Oder)
Freiburg Im Breisgau
Fulda
Fürth
Gelsenkirchen
Göttingen
Hagen
Halle (Saale)
Hamburg
Hamm
Hannover
Heidelberg
Heilbronn
Herne
Hildesheim
Ingolstadt
Istanbul
Jena
Karlsruhe
Kassel
Kiel
Koblenz
Köln
Krefeld
Leipzig
Leverkusen
Liechtenstein
Lisbon
London
Lübeck
Lucerne
Ludwigshafen
Magdeburg
Mainz
Mannheim
Moers
Mönchengladbach
Mülheim An Der Ruhr
München
Münster
Neubrandenburg
Neuss
Nürnberg
Oberhausen
Offenbach Am Main
Oldenburg
Osnabrück
Paderborn
Paris
Passau
Pforzheim
Porto
Potsdam
Recklinghausen
Regensburg
Remscheid
Reutlingen
Rostock
Saarbrücken
Salzburg
Salzgitter
Siegen
Solingen
St. Gallen
Stralsund
Stuttgart
The Hague
Trier
Ulm
Wien
Wiesbaden
Wolfsburg
Wuppertal
Würzburg
Zug
Zürich

#4486630 - 08/19/19 05:05 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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More fun from the same developer that brought you win95 as an electron app


Setup Windows 10 for Modern/Hipster Development

A fresh Windows isn't entirely ready for modern development, but all the tools you need are available. A good terminal, popular bash tools, Git, a decent package manager - when properly setup, modern development on Windows can be a lot of fun. In particular, this document outlines how to configure your Windows in such a way that it can easily handle most development tasks usually run on a Mac OS X or a Linux distro.

The Goods

Package Management
Terminal
PowerShell Profile
Node.js
Git
Atom, Sublime, VS Code
Ruby
Go
Python
DevOps: VirtualBox, Vagrant, Docker
SSH
Azure Cli
AWS Cli
Basic Tools


#4488356 - 09/04/19 01:29 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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How to Create your own custom Counter-Strike: Global Offensive Game Server on Linux VPS


By Alexandru Andrei – Posted on Aug 5, 2019 in Gaming, Linux

Steam’s official game servers for Counter-Strike: Global Offensive are good enough for most purposes. However, you don’t control them. If you create your own server, you will be able to:

Set your own rules, such as match time, freeze time, max players, friendly fire, and so on. But watch to be sure you don’t break important rules, especially these
Have private matches with your friends.
Organize contests/tournaments.
Play on custom maps

Why Create a Game Server on Linux?

Some of you might be thinking, “Wouldn’t this be easier on Windows, on my own computer even?” Well, first of all, if you host a game on your home computer, that’s usually good enough only for local network games. Most Internet service providers offer decent download quality but not so good for uploads. The server is laggy, jittery, and offers an inconsistent gameplay experience. It’s better to rent a server from a reputable cloud computing provider if you want smooth games.

While most cloud services let you host Windows as the operating system, this is not ideal either. Windows consumes a lot of RAM that you could be using to host your game instead. This leads to increased cost. You also have to pay for a per-hour license, which increases the cost even more. And last but not least, the steps to configure the game server (srcds daemon) itself are pretty much the same on Windows and Linux. This means that it’s not any easier to do this on Microsoft’s operating system than on Linux.

Game Server Requirements

CS:GO game servers are not very demanding, so virtual private servers will do just fine (no need for dedicated). The minimum requirements:

2GB of RAM.
Two virtual cores/CPUs. “Intensive compute” instances might be more responsive. Try normal compute first, then upgrade to intensive if you notice server lag.
At least 40GB of storage space.
Debian as the operating system. You might use other distros, too, if you really want to, but Debian will give you a headache-free experience. Instructions in this article are Debian-specific.
If your VPS provider lets you configure a firewall through their web interface control panel, disable it for this instance.
Configure your instance to use SSH key-based authentication preferably. If you intend to use a password, use a very good one! Most of the time servers are broken into because of weak or very weak passwords. SSH key-based authentication prevents this.
If you don’t already have a Steam account, create one here.

You can get affordable and reliable VPS at either Linode or DigitalOcean.

#4489034 - 09/11/19 01:24 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Draw.io is a free Flowchart and diagram creation software for Windows, Linux, macOS and your browser


by Ashwin on September 07, 2019 in Software
...

Cross-platform availability and web-app (no registration required)

Draw.io is a cross-platform application which is available as an offline client for Windows, Linux, macOS, ChromeOS, as an add-on for Google Docs, Google Slides, as a stand-alone web-app, or integrates directly with your Dropbox, GitHubm GitLab Google Drive, OneDrive, Office 365 account.

You can use Draw.io to export the flowcharts in several formats including PNG, JPEG, SVG, PDF, VSDX, HTML, XML. You can even use the URL option to create a shareable link that you can send to your friends/colleagues. You don't need to register for an account or login to any service for this (or for using the web-app). You can optionally allow other users to edit the created flowchart.

Did I mention that Draw.io is open source?
...


#4489410 - 09/13/19 06:55 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Link to helpful post I made about which Linux to choose and short briefing, links. See:

re-twilight-zone-and-gremilns

Cheers! and may the FOSS-Force be with you wink

#4490229 - 09/22/19 06:48 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Haven, Guardian Project, F-Droid

3 names you 'need to know' for your spyphone..

Haven app for Android

Basically you can use your phone for an adhoc alarm system with motion, vibration sensors, etc.

Quote

The following sensors are monitored for measurable change, and then recorded to an event log on the device:

Accelerometer: Motion and vibration of phone
Camera: Motion in the phone’s visible surroundings from front or back camera
Microphone: Noises in the environment
Light: Change in light from ambient light sensor
Power: Detect device being unplugged or power loss/shutdown



In other words with a properly set phone no one can sneak up on you. Or wherever you place your phone. And if they do - someone - or you at a remote location - will know about it. Even if it turns out badly.. (but let's now not be morbid, but 'fore-warned is fore-armed.'

Originally Posted by Haven


[Linked Image]

Haven is for people who need a way to protect their personal spaces and possessions without compromising their own privacy. It is an Android application that leverages on-device sensors to provide monitoring and protection of physical spaces. Haven turns any Android phone into a motion, sound, vibration and light detector, watching for unexpected guests and unwanted intruders. We designed Haven for investigative journalists, human rights defenders, and people at risk of forced disappearance to create a new kind of herd immunity. By combining the array of sensors found in any smartphone, with the world’s most secure communications technologies, like Signal and Tor, Haven prevents the worst kind of people from silencing citizens without getting caught in the act.
Project Team

Haven was developed through a collaboration between Freedom of the Press Foundation and Guardian Project. Prototype funding was generously provided by FPF, and donations to support continuing work can be contributed through their site: https://freedom.press/donate-support-haven-open-source-project
Safety through Sensors

Haven only saves images and sound when triggered by motion or volume, and stores everything locally on the device. You can position the device’s camera to capture visible motion, or set your phone somewhere discreet to just listen for noises. Get secure notifications of intrusion events instantly, and access logs remotely or anytime later.

The following sensors are monitored for measurable change, and then recorded to an event log on the device:

Accelerometer: Motion and vibration of phone
Camera: Motion in the phone’s visible surroundings from front or back camera
Microphone: Noises in the environment
Light: Change in light from ambient light sensor
Power: Detect device being unplugged or power loss/shutdown

https://f-droid.org/packages/org.havenapp.main

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.havenapp.main


get it from F-Droid - or gogle -

The Guardian Project

The Guardian Project offers some very interesting and useful stuff.
Even scary. Its a scary world and they have many apps for your safephone, spyphone or just personal phone safety. Haven for one is a must-have!

Originally Posted by Guardian Project

While smartphones have been heralded as the coming of the next generation of communication and collaboration, they are a step backwards when it comes to personal security, anonymity and privacy.

Guardian Project creates easy to use secure apps, open-source software libraries, and customized solutions that can be used around the world by any person looking to protect their communications and personal data from unjust intrusion, interception and monitoring.

Whether your are an average person looking to affirm your rights or an activist, journalist or humanitarian organization looking to safeguard your work in this age of perilous global communication, we can help address the threats you face.




F-Droid

I really like F-Droid lately its got some decent apps.

Originally Posted by F-Droid

What is F-Droid?

F-Droid is an installable catalogue of FOSS (Free and Open Source Software) applications for the Android platform. The client makes it easy to browse, install, and keep track of updates on your device.


pick up a tor browser while you're there...



Attached Files hvn.png
Last edited by FsFOOT; 09/22/19 06:53 AM. Reason: added pic
#4490390 - 09/24/19 03:23 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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#4508049 - 02/21/20 07:13 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Originally Posted by Batocera.linux


batocera.linux is an operating system (like Windows 10 and Mac OS) specialized in retrogaming available for your pc and different nano computers like the Raspberry and the Odroids

On PC, it is available on a usb key and can boot without altering your existing hard drive. Note that you must own games you play in order to respect legality.



https://batocera.org

https://wiki.batocera.org/doku.php

https://distrowatch.com/batocera

#4514062 - 04/02/20 06:26 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Application security

Akamai will provide 60 days of free access to its Business Continuity Assistance Program, which includes it Enterprise Application Access solution. The program is designed to support remote workers and maintain business continuity.

Cloudflare is offering small businesses free seats to its zero-trust application protection service through September 1. The company will also throw in a 30-minute onboarding session with one of its experts.

Vectra is making its Cognito Detect for Microsoft 365 technology to detect Microsoft 365 account takeovers free through May 31, 2020.

Authentication

1Password is removing its 30-day free-trial limit on business accounts for its password management software. Companies can now use 1Password at no cost for six months to manage login credentials.
[ Prepare to become a Certified Information Security Systems Professional with this comprehensive online course from PluralSight. Now offering a 10-day free trial! ]

Dashlane is providing three months of its Dashlane Premium or Dashlane Business password management product for free to individuals or businesses who don't already have the service.

Okta will provide its Okta Identity Cloud service for free to new customers for six months, possibly longer if the situation warrants it. The service includes Okta Single Sign-On (SSO) and Okta Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for up to five applications.

Ping Identity is offering six months of free cloud-based SSO and MFA to companies that must support newly remote employees. Existing customers can receive six months of free MFA.

RSA is offering its RSA SecurID Access product for multi-factor authentication to new customers free for six months. Existing customers can take advantage of RSA's Business Continuity Option to expand the number of users on RSA SecurID Access without increasing their budget.

SecureAuth is offering its Intelligent Identity Cloud package, which includes MFA and single sign-on capabilities, for free until December 15, 2020.

Wultra has waived the first six months of its license fee on its Wultra Mobile Security authentication technologies for banking and fintech apps.

Email security

GreatHorn is offering 60 days of free access to its GreatHorn Email Security threat detection and remediation platform to organizations facing disruptions due to the COVID-19 crisis.

Encryption

Beachhead Solutions is offering free additional licenses to current managed service provider (MSP) customers of its SimplySecure service. This will allow them to support an increase in remote workers within their client bases. Beachhead offers cloud-managed PC and mobile device encryption, security and data access control. MSP customer must submit a request to support@beachheadsolutions.com and channelteam@beachheadsolutions.com with the number of licenses needed and for which clients.

PreVeil is offering its encrypted email and file-sharing solutions for free to critical infrastructure organizations on the front lines of the COVID-19 crisis. This includes federal, state and local governments and agencies; first reponders and crisis management teams, and healthcare non-profits.

Endpoint protection

AppGuard is offering its AppGuard Solo endpoint protection solution free of charge for the next 90 days to business that need to support more remote workers.

Baramundi Software has put together an Emergency UEM Package for IT Admins that's free for the duration of the crisis. It helps maintain endpoint security through patch management and vulnerability scans.

Crowdstrike is offering two ways to extend protection of company and employee-owned devices through May 16, 2020. Its Burst Licensing program allows customers to increase license counts at no cost, and Falcon Prevent for Home Use will allow new and existing customers to protect employees' devices for free.

Morphisec will provide free licenses for remote employees of its Unified Threat Prevention platform through June 1.

PC Matic is making its suite of enterprise endpoint protection and remote management tools available at no charge to Massachusetts-based companies implementing work-from-home policies. Those companies must have 10 or more remote workstations. The offer is valid through June 30, 2020, and includes onboarding and support services.

SentinelOne is offering free access to its endpoint protection and endpoint detection and response platform through May 16, 2020. The company will also provide remote deployment assistance.

Fraud protection

The Authoriti Network is making its Permission Code-based payments fraud protection service available at no cost to state and local governments.

Healthcare-specific offers

Adelia Risk is offering its HIPAA Mail free for 60 days for all new US clients. It provides HIPAA-compliant Google apps such as Gmail and Google Drive, encrypted email, and spam and phishing protection.

Awake Security is offering 60 days of free access to its network traffic analysis platform to hospitals and healthcare organizations to help identify ransomware and other cyber threats from slowing the COVID-19 response.

Bitdefender is offering up to 12 months of free enterprise protection of devices for all healthcare organizations.

Imprivata is making its Imprivata Confirm ID for Remote Access enterprise multi-factor authentication solution free for all users at healthcare organizations.

LuxSci is offering its secure email service for free for the next two months for companies that need to send HIPAA-compliant health/safety-related email. It will send up to 25,000 emails per month, and might extend the two-month window if the crisis continues.

TigerConnect will provide its secure healthcare communications platform free of charge to US-based health systems and hospitals to support COVID-19 related communications. New customers can get up to six months of the TigerConnect secure texting service, while existing customers can expand their TigerConnect Essentials licenses for up to six months.

Incident response

Varonis has formed a COVID-19 Cyber Task Force that provides, among other things, help with incident response. Varonis is also offering a free evaluation licenses of its Data Security Platform for an unspecified amount of time.

Network security

AppGate is offering a free 90-day Software-Defined Perimeter Pilot to companies implementing work-at-home initiatives.

Cisco Webex has expanded its free offerings to include security services for remote employees through July 1, 2020. Those services include Cisco Umbrella to protect users from malicious websites (now free for 90 days), Duo Security to verify users’ identities and establish device trust, and Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client to allow employees to work from anywhere. For the latter two, (existing customers can now exceed their user limit and new customers can get free access.

Fortinet is making its FortiClient VPN solution free of charge for secure remote access.

ZeroTier offers open-source SDKs and tools to set up software-defined networks that can support remote workers. There is no fee for most uses.

Remote access

Banyan Security is offering free usage of its Zero Trust Remote Access product for a limited time to new customers supporting remote workers.

BlackBerry is making its suite of secure communications products available for free for 60 days to companies transitioning employees to work remotely. This includes BlackBerry Desktop for remote access, BlackBerry Protect for endpoint protection, and SecuSUITE Government for secure messaging and calls.

Block Armour is making the trial version of its Zero Trust remote access solution fully functional rather than a sandbox. It's also waiving the ost of the Block Armour Secure Shield controller.

Ericom is offering a free 60-day license of its Ericom Connect product, which gives browser-based access to business applications, and Ericom Shield Zero Trust for up to 100 employees.

ManageEngine is making its remote access security tools freely available until July 1, 2020, to companies needing to support more remote workers.

Sumo Logic has bundled a number of data analytics tools help ensure the reliability and security of business applications free for 90 days. The Work-From-Home solution includes tools to support SSO, remote access, endpoint security, and productivity apps. It is also offering its Continuous Intelligence Platform free to all educational insititutions to help provide disruption-free online learning.

Remote management

Addigy is providing its device management platform for Apple devices free for 60 days to businesses, schools, and MSPs. The platform will allow organizations to remotely update security settings, software, and more.

Risk assessment

Illusive Networks is offering a free remote attack risk assessment to help identify vulnerabilities in networks reconfigured to support more remote workers.
Security awareness and training

Lucy Security has created a website with free videos, courses, checklists and guides to train work-at-home employees to identify phishing scams and other security threats.

The SANS Security Awareness division of the SANS Institute has created the Securely Working from Home deployment kit. The free kit packages public and paid training SANS resources and is designed to give security awareness staff a step-by-step guide on how to rapidly deploy a training program for remote staff.

Threat intelligence

King & Union, ThreatConnect, and D3i have formed a coalition to provide a collaboration platform and threat intelligence services free for an indefinite time to commercial and government organizations shifting to a remote workforce.

Web security

ImmuniWeb has added features from its paid product to its free community offering for web and mobile security testing. It is also offering free services and solutions to organizations that are migrating their workflows to the digital space and meet certain requirements.

Netsparker is providing free team licenses of its web vulnerability scanning tool to certain organizations including government entities, medical equipment providers, news producers, vaccine and medical research facilities, patient care organizations, hospitals, first responders, and food delivery.

Wireless protection

Minim will provide four months of its Minim for Remote Workers home security and managed WiFi platform for free to individuals and companies. Minim claims its platform will protect against router attacks, ransomware, network intrusions and other common malware.


check the quotedl page - has hyperlinks to the offerings

sourced the link via ARN - The voice of the Australian IT channel

Last edited by FsFOOT; 04/03/20 07:40 AM. Reason: quoted page has hyperlinks - but its a chore to add urls to quoted page so i neglect
#4514278 - 04/03/20 08:12 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Keepass database and Owdrive - Still a good solution to store encrypted password files, etc.

Quote


Where and How to get a safe encrypted solution for file storage online particularly to store for example critical data, web passwords etc. so you can access anytime in a jam and "Sync" to other devices.

First let me say I use Linux Mint Operating system.
For making my own encrypted data file I use the free progrm KeypassX
https://www.keepassx.org/
It is basically the alternative for Keepass, which is practically an industry standard many people use.
There are tons of download versions / alternatives posted at this url for Keepass, KeepassX, etc. :
http://keepass.info/download.html

Many Linux Distros include it also as available in repositories.

Now to store the data file or files I use a free online storage solution:
https://owndrive.com/

Owndrive is the same technology as Owncloud. But is not Owncloud it is a private host.
There re free as well as paid options. I use the free options now for almost ayear with no problems ever.
It uses uses an Owncloud client available from the site.

It has both a web interface as well as sync client for both Windows, MAC, Linux as well as smartphones Apple IOS and Android.
https://owndrive.com/sync-clients/

All you do is set the Owncloud sync client to my.owndrive.com
its real easy.

The avantage of Owndrive is the Additional Web Interface. You can log in from the internet just like any web service and access you files anytime also.
Very useful if you either lose your device or not have it with you,. Or if you get stuck somewhere.
Also Owndrive is based in Norway as well as their servers.

Thus for example the US Patriot act cannot be used to subvert your legal rights to yur data, etc.
Note that I actually don't have anything to hide. Nor would I ever endorse any criminal activity. That is not the reason I am posting this.
I just am against such incursions which IMHO violate the spirit of the US Bill of rights that guaranteed the right of its citizens to be secure in their 'papers' and such.
And certainly every individual needs to know how to secure their data from crackers, criminals, enemy states, etc.

That said, note that by using the Keepass / KeepassX , etc. solution (properly that is - read and understand their information and what encryption is and does as well as what it does not do first before you do this!) you fully encrypt your data before you ever upload it.
Its a very good solution and frankly no one is ever going to be able to crack your data if you encrypt it reasonably using this method.
The strength of the data encrypt will be well enough safe or really safer than any financial institution uses. And frankly way less likely than them to ever be targeted.
And depending on your choice of what method you use as a keyfile or password in KeepassX (in other words your level of paranoia. Mine is fairly high but even so I don't even bother with using the most sophisticated method. As long as your passphrase is over 20+ characters mixed chars and numbers, etc. so forth it is enough. But that is up to you.
Also making multiple archives is safer than a single obviously.
If you have data that needs higher protection than this it shouldn't even be online frankly.

In other words you would be a military actor or mogul, or criminal etc.
In that case you hardly need my advise.. lol.

Cheers!
2017-9

Last edited by FsFOOT; 09/09/17 12:37 AM. Reason: fixed a link back.. nevermind the details..


re-tweet of my old post.

I've been using this same method for years now. Using KeepassX to store my passwords in a keepass version 2 database and be sure I can always access to vital password database, etc. and safely store it for all my devices. Especially for emergencies or even forgetfullness.. lol!

The caveat is the sync-client version available by default on Linux Mint 18 or 19 no longer works. I haven't tried the other versions but will soon.
I just use the webpage login and no problems.
Of course even if you don't use Owndrive or Owncloud a keepass database file is portable and easy to store.

There is newer keepass database version 4 (haven't tried it) and plenty of other software like authpass, etc. can open most keepass database versions also.

btw: if you're thinking of using a free owndrive account to store other types of backups - be aware the quota is only 1 GB storage free.

#4515762 - 04/11/20 06:02 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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FreeTube



FreeTube is an open source desktop YouTube player built with privacy in mind. Use YouTube without advertisements and prevent Google from tracking you with their cookies and JavaScript. Available for Windows, Mac & Linux thanks to Electron.

Please note that FreeTube is currently in Beta. While it should work well for most users, there are still bugs and missing features that need to be addressed.

Download FreeTube
Browser Extension

Download our browser extension so that you can click on videos in your browser and have them automatically open up in FreeTube.

Download for Firefox

Instructions for Google Chrome
How does it work?

FreeTube uses the Invidious API to grab and serve videos. Invidious scrapes the YouTube site which prevents the need for any official YouTube API. While YouTube can still see your video requests, it can no longer track you using cookies or JavaScript. Your subscriptions, history, and saved videos are stored locally on your computer and never sent out. Using a VPN or Tor is recommended to hide your IP while using FreeTube.
Screenshots

Features

Watch videos without ads
Use YouTube without Google tracking you using cookies and JavaScript
Tor / Proxy Support
Subscribe to channels without an account
Local subscriptions, history, and saved videos
Export & import subscriptions
Open videos from your browser directly into FreeTube (with extension)
Mini Player
Light / dark theme



In this guide, I’ll take you through How to Install and use FreeTube on Linux / macOS. FreeTube is an open source Desktop YouTube application that’s focused on privacy. FreeTube allows you to Watch your favorite YouTube videos without any normal ads you’ll get on browser applications like Firefox, Opera e.t.c.



Actually its in availble in Linux Mint Ubuntu etc, via software manager, flathub

Also works on Windows, Mac.

Note is an electron application, which more or less means bloated, but hey.. its free and no googoo!

I'm not sure i'm going to try it yet..
Also there is SmTube a frontend for Mplayer, Mplaver2 and mpv. I've used in the past. But still uses a browser.

#4516047 - 04/12/20 07:39 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Tips and Tools from www.EFF.org

"The leading nonprofit defending digital privacy, free speech, and innovation."






UPDATE 4/10: We have edited this post to add details about Zoom’s new security features and defaults.

Whether you are on Zoom because your employer or school requires it or you just downloaded it to stay in touch with friends and family, people have rushed to the video chat platform in the wake of COVID-19 stay-at-home orders—and journalists, researchers, and regulators have noticed its many security and privacy problems. Zoom has responded with a surprisingly good plan for next steps, but talk is cheap. Zoom will have to follow through on its security and privacy promises if it wants to regain users’ trust.

In the meantime, take these steps to harden your Zoom privacy settings and protect your meetings from “Zoombombing” trolls. The settings below are all separate, which means you don’t need to change them all, and you don’t need to change them in any particular order. Consider which settings make sense for you and the groups you communicate with, and do your best to make sure meeting organizers and participants are on the same page about settings and shared expectations.
Privacy Settings
Make Sure Chat Auto-Saving Is Off

In your Zoom account settings under In Meeting (Basic), make sure Auto saving chats is toggled off to the left.

The autosave chats setting toggled off to the left
Make Sure “Attention Tracking” Is Off

In your Zoom account settings under In Meeting (Advanced), make sure Attention tracking is toggled off to the left.

The attention tracking setting toggled off to the left
Use a Virtual Background

The space you’re in during a call can expose a lot of information about where you live, your habits, and your hobbies. If you’re uncomfortable having your living space in the background of your calls, set a virtual background. From the zoom.us menu in the top right corner of your screen while using Zoom, navigate to Preferences and then Virtual backgrounds.
Best Practices for Avoiding Trolls

With Zoom now more widely used than ever, the mechanics of its public meeting IDs have allowed bad actors to invade people’s meetings with harassment, slurs, and disturbing images. When you host a meeting, consider taking the steps below to protect yourself and your participants from this “Zoombombing.”

Bad actors can find your meeting in one of two ways: they can cycle through random meeting IDs until they find an active one, or they can take advantage of meeting links and invites that have been posted in public places, like Facebook groups, Twitter, or personal websites. So, protecting yourself boils down to controlling who can enter your meeting, and keeping your meeting IDs private.
Keep the Meeting ID Private

Whenever possible, do not post the link to your meeting or the meeting ID publicly. Send it directly to trusted people and groups instead.
Set a Meeting Password, and Carefully Inspect the Meeting Link

After Zoom's most recent update, meeting passwords are now on by default for free Basic and single licensed Pro accounts, as well as education accounts.

BEWARE, however, that Zoom passwords can behave in unexpected ways. If you use the “Copy Invitation” functionality to copy the meeting link and send it to your participants, that link might include your meeting password. Look out for an unusually long URL with a question mark in it, which indicates it includes your meeting password.

If you plan to send the meeting link directly to trusted participants, having the password included in the link will be no problem. But if you want to post the meeting link in a Facebook group, on Twitter, or in another public space, then it means the password itself will also be public. If you need to publicize your event online, consider posting only the meeting ID, and then separately sending the password to vetted participants shortly before the meeting begins.

To find the password settings, go to your Zoom account settings under Schedule Meeting. Make sure Require a password when scheduling new meetings is toggled on to the right. You’ll find additional password options in this area of the settings as well.

Several password settings toggled on to the right

You can also set a password when scheduling a meeting from the Zoom desktop app by checking the “Require meeting pass” checkbox.
Lock Down Screen Sharing

In your Zoom account settings under In Meeting (Basic), set Screen sharing to Host Only. That means that, when you are hosting a meeting, only you and no other meeting participants will be able to share their screen.

The screensharing setting set to host only

Depending on the calls you plan to host, you can also turn screen sharing off entirely by toggling it off to the left.
Use Waiting Rooms to Approve Participants

After Zoom's most recent update, waiting rooms are now enabled by default for free Basic and single licensed Pro accounts, as well as education accounts. A waiting room allows hosts to screen new participants before letting them join, which can help prevent disruptions or unexpected participants.

To find this setting, go to your Zoom account settings under In Meeting (Advanced). Make sure Waiting room is toggled on to the right.

The waiting room setting toggled on to the right
Lock the Meeting

When you are actively in a meeting and all your expected participants have arrived, you can "lock" the meeting to prevent anyone else from joining. Click Participants at the bottom of the Zoom window, and select Lock Meeting.
Use the Security Icon Options

Another way to access many of the settings described above is to use the Security icon that appears at the bottom of the screen when you are hosting a Zoom call. This button quickly takes you to settings like locking the meeting, enabling a waiting room, and restricting call participants’ ability to share their screens. Zoom’s announcement describes this feature in more detail.




What You Should Know About Online Tools During the COVID-19 Crisis
by Lindsay Oliver | March 19, 2020

A greater portion of the world’s work, organizing, and care-giving is moving onto digital platforms and tools that facilitate connection and productivity: video conferencing, messaging apps, healthcare and educational platforms, and more. It’s important to be aware of the ways these tools may impact your digital privacy and security during the COVID-19 crisis.

Here are a few things you should know in order to make informed decisions about what works best for you and your communities, and ways you can use security and privacy best practices to protect yourself and others.
Free Slacks

EFF has written a lot about Slack’s data retention issues when it comes to free versions of the software. With so many mutual aid networks and organizing groups coalescing on Slack to support our communities, it’s important that users are aware that the company retains their messages if they're using a free plan—and they can't automatically delete them. By default, Slack retains all the messages in a workspace or channel (including direct messages) for as long as the workspace exists.

If you are using a paid workspace, you can change how many messages are retained in Slack’s databases by setting shorter retention periods. If you’re using the free version though, that option is not available to you. Additionally, free workspace users only have the ability to search through the most recent 10,000 messages. And while users can’t see messages sent prior to the 10,000 message mark, they are still available to Slack, law enforcement, and any third-party hackers through a data breach. Leaking or sharing of this data could prove catastrophic, especially for groups who are working to provide aid and support for our most at-risk communities.
Zoom Conferencing

The best way to stave off the effects of isolation is to maintain contact with friends, family, and coworkers. Zoom has quickly become a popular option to work and keep in touch with others in the midst of social distancing and shelter-in-place protocols. There are a few things to keep in mind when using Zoom, particularly in instances where users are relying on the conferencing tool for their studies, or for work-related activities.
Attendee Attention-Tracking

The host of a Zoom call has the capacity to monitor the activities of attendees while screen-sharing. This functionality is available in Zoom version 4.0 and higher. If attendees of a meeting do not have the Zoom video window in focus during a call where the host is screen-sharing, after 30 seconds the host can see indicators next to each participant’s name indicating that the Zoom window is not active.
Administrators and User Tracking

Zoom allows administrators to see detailed views on how, when, and where users are using Zoom, with detailed dashboards in real-time of user activity. Zoom also provides a ranking system of users based on total number of meeting minutes. If a user records any calls via Zoom, administrators can access the contents of that recorded call, including video, audio, transcript, and chat files, as well as access to sharing, analytics, and cloud management privileges.

For any meeting that has occurred or is in-process, Zoom allows administrators to see the operating system, IP address, location data, and device information of each participant. This device information includes the type of machine (PC/Mac/Linux/mobile/etc), specs on the make/model of your peripheral audiovisual devices like cameras or speakers, and names for those devices (for example, the user-configurable names given to AirPods). Administrators also have the ability to join any call at any time on their organization’s instance of Zoom, without in-the-moment consent or warning for the attendees of the call.
Schools Moving to Online Learning

Surveillance shouldn’t be a prerequisite for getting an education. But even before more school districts started moving their classes and coursework to digital forums for purposes of social distancing, surveillance has become more and more common in schools. With the advent of COVID-19 and the associated uptick in distributed digital learning, the potential for this surveillance to ramp up is alarming.

This is true from kindergarten all the way through graduate school, though it is most prevalent and insidious in K-12 schools. School administrators are choosing to use tools and tactics that encroach on students’ privacy in ways that can break down trust amongst students and their peers, teachers, families, and administrators. Many K-12 schools offer or mandate the use of school-issued devices, and those devices come with pre-installed spyware that monitors all student activities and reports them to school administrators.

Many schools are already experimenting with mass surveillance technologies with no evidence, and no way for concerned parents and students to opt out. If your school is using or is considering using technologies like Bark, GoGuardian, Gaggle, Securly, or Social Sentinel, check out our guide to Privacy for Students. It covers many of the privacy and surveillance concerns that these technologies raise, with ways to minimize the data being tracked, risk mitigation strategies, and advocacy tactics.
Telehealth and Non-HIPAA Platforms

The HHS has altered HIPAA rules during the COVID-19 crisis, allowing health care providers to use applications such as FaceTime, Facebook Messenger, Hangouts, Skype, Zoom, etc so they are able to provide care to patients remotely:

During the COVID-19 national emergency, which also constitutes a nationwide public health emergency, covered health care providers subject to the HIPAA Rules may seek to communicate with patients, and provide telehealth services, through remote communications technologies. Some of these technologies, and the manner in which they are used by HIPAA covered health care providers, may not fully comply with the requirements of the HIPAA Rules.

If your healthcare provider is using an application or platform that is not covered under HIPAA, check with them on what safeguards they have in place to ensure your privacy is protected, and what their plans and timelines are for moving to platforms that do fall under HIPAA compliance.
Tools for Assessing Risk and Staying Safe Online

One of the best things you can do to keep yourself and others safe during this crisis is to learn how to minimize risk. Many of the problems presented in this post can be mitigated or circumvented with careful consideration of the risks, employing “privacy as a team sport” tactics, and minimizing the data that corporations, employers, and others can track. Our resource site, Surveillance Self-Defense, is full of practical tips, tools, how-to’s, and explainers for communicating safely online. Here’s a list of useful guides with concrete steps you can take to get started:

Evaluate and choose the tools you use to make sure they work for you.
Learn about best practices for communicating with others and incorporate them into your routines and tools.
Use a password manager to create strong passwords.
Ensure that you have two-factor authentication (also known as 2FA) enabled for as many accounts as possible.
Consider your needs and choose the VPN that’s right for you.

And lastly, remember—we’re all in this together. Take care of each other by safeguarding each others’ physical and digital health

#4516978 - 04/17/20 10:00 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Freedom and Security with Purism Librem One Mail, Chat, Social, mail, VPN Tunnel. Do I need 2 accounts? - Also FSF Online tools and more..

(by) David Seaward Director of Trustworthy Services at Purism

During lockdown I’ve been helping friends and neighbors get set up for remote work or just remote calls. If someone is in a bind they use what they have in front of them, or what they’ve been told to use, so it’s been an interesting step back into the world of disloyal devices and horrid software.

But even if your choices are limited, there is one basic step you can take to protect your privacy: create another account. Now is as good a time as any to say, “Oh yeah, I’ve got a new account now.”
Compartmentalization

Compartmentalization is a basic security technique. You make some boxes, say “Critical” and “Trivial”, you sort things into those boxes, and you treat the boxes with different degrees of care. You might already have a folder at home for financial statements or tax invoices. At the office, you might mark and store “Confidential” documents separately.
You did what now?

I discovered that a good number of people I know use the same primary email account to talk to their family, do their shopping, conduct job interviews, receive security links and make social posts. A few use the same account to access their employer’s servers or otherwise conduct business. A handful use ad-hoc compartmentalization tricks to sort messages and mail within the same account.

In the event of a breach, all their eggs are in one account. The unimportant eggs and the very important ones. Of course we all hope our account is never breached, and that each service provides layers of protection, but if we’re talking about a typical email account, that’s a lot of interesting unencrypted text to dig through.

Now I didn’t have time convince anyone to double-check authentication on all non-primary accounts, and also download, encrypt and upload their existing messages, but I did find a simple heuristic process to improve things:

Create a new primary account. This is your new public-facing compartment, for job interviews and other formal settings associated with your real name. I may be biased, ok I am biased, I’d suggest using Librem One.
Any time you sign up for a service in a formal setting, use your new account. If you already have service accounts like this, gradually switch them over, but don’t stress it.
Do not use the new address for shopping, social media, your current place of work or private communication.
Do assume that everything originating from your new account could appear in a very boring Wikipedia article based on “the public record”. Parking tickets, where you applied, where you interviewed, court cases, municipal correspondence, letters to the editor.

Disentangled

Most people require a formal, public-facing identity. Disentangle it from your cool apps, hobby accounts and social media.

If you’re already thinking about additional compartments (“Family”, “Finances”, “Social”, “Superhero alterego”), hold on a moment. Wait a month to see if you’re happy with account-based compartmentalization rather than biting off more than you can chew. Then add compartments one at a time, based on your needs, slowly phasing out all your old accounts.

You might have a good reason to pick a different starting point, again this is a needs-based judgment.
The third account

You probably already have a separate account from your employer to access work resources. Keep it that way. Only use your work account for the tasks you’re paid for, and if you’re doing work, use your employee account. Your colleagues in the IT/sysadmin department will thank you.
Bonus tip

If the thought of all this is already stressing you out, I have an overriding, two-for-one, bonus tip:

Start using a password manager.

It must clearly and boldly state that it uses end-to-end encryption. As well as storing your credentials (unique to every account, of course) it gives you an overview of all your accounts. This makes it easier to tackle maintenance in quick bursts.

In fact, if all you do after reading this post is set up a password manager, give yourself a reward on behalf of your future safety.
Further reading

This is just one thing you can do to improve your online security. If your interest is piqued, I can recommend the following ebooks:
Staying safe online

Good for kids and good for you. Covers the all basics quickly and clearly. Unfortunately all your options for getting it are DRM encumbered.
The Smart Girl’s Guide to Privacy: Practical Tips for Staying Safe Online


Originally Posted by Librem One by Purism

Tired of your digital life being exploited online?
Librem One is a growing bundle of ethical services


Get all the apps right now and join the gang:
All apps require username and account subscription

  • Librem Mail

    Easy to use end-to-end encrypted email used by nearly everybody already
  • Librem Chat

    No worries end-to-end encrypted chat, VoIP, and video calling used by millions of people
  • Librem Social

    Change to a safe, public social media with millions of people already active, that respects your digital rights
  • Librem Tunnel

    Toggle your connection to a secure VPN tunnel proven by millions of users


Purism is a Social Purpose Corporation (SPC), which means we put social good above exploiting people. Librem One is a growing bundle of services—chat, tunnel, email, social, and more—from Purism, SPC.

We believe that privacy and technology can be ethical and convenient. Librem One allows you to reclaim your privacy, securely communicate to your friends, and does so easily with your freedoms intact. We bundle all the tools together for you to replace the privacy invading, locked-in, exploitative big-tech services. Putting you in charge of your digital life.

We provide products and services based on values that society wants, that respect digital civil rights. Welcome to Librem One, socially responsible services from Purism.




the 2 free services: Librem Chat
No worries end-to-end encrypted chat, VoIP, and video calling used by millions of people

Librem Social
Change to a safe, public social media with millions of people already active, that respects your digital rights

Originally Posted by https://librem.one/faq/


Frequently asked questions

Can Librem One work on Android and iOS?
Yes it works and is available in Android Play Store and Apple App Store

Why do I need to pay?
We are changing the landscape of digital rights, which includes changing the business model from the previous exploitative zero-price for all-your-data, to a nominal-price to retain your digital rights, data, and privacy.

Can I get a free Librem One account?
Since not everybody can afford to pay, we do offer a free Librem One Basic account if you agree to strictly avoid products and services from big-tech that exploit you, lock you in, and control your data. If you agree to that, select the ‘FREE’ option for Librem One Basic: Social + Chat service, and you can get a free account as a gesture of gratitude from Purism, SPC.

Can I communicate to people on other services?
Yes! Librem One uses open standards, free software, and decentralized protocols for all our services; similar to email, you can communicate to anybody using the same protocols for chat, email, and social, this allows you to communicate across different domains.

How do I delete Facebook, Whatsapp, and Instagram and switch to Librem One?
Each of these services, all owned by Facebook, has a different set of steps for deletion. To delete your Facebook account, see the Facebook or WikiHow guide. To delete your Instagram account see the Instagram or WikiHow guide. To delete your Whatsapp account, see the WhatsApp or WikiHow guide. Then sign up here!

How do I delete Twitter and switch to Librem One?
See the Twitter or WikiHow guide to delete your account. Then sign up here!

How do I delete G+ and switch to Librem One?
Google Plus shut down on April 2nd 2019. You can still check the Google or WikiHow guide to make sure your account is gone. Then sign up here!

How do I delete Gmail and switch to Librem One?
To delete your Gmail account, see the Google or WikiHow guide. Then sign up here!

How can I get Librem One that is integrated into Librem laptops or the Librem 5 phone?
Currently you will install and setup the applications individually, in the future you will be able to just sign-up and then log-in during initial product setup and have all the services available by default.

Can I buy this for my friend or family?
Yes, you can buy an individual account or a Family Pack, and then download the bundle and have the persons sign-in using the account you created.

I live in a different country, can I buy and use Librem One?
Yes, we accept many forms of payment and even offer a free basic service, Librem One has no restrictions on geolocation or country, if your country has rules or regulations that limit service it is not due to Librem One restrictions.

Can legal requests from authorities see my data?
Public (Librem Social) is publicly visible to everybody. Private end-to-end encrypted data (chat, email, tunnel) is only visible to you and the intended recipient(s). If something is not Public and not Private, it is Temporary (unencrypted direct messages, unencrypted email) and is removed within 30 days. Any valid legal request for data is complied with.

How much mail can I store? How many images can I post?
Basic tier users have a 1 GiB storage quota across all services. Complete tier users have a 2 GiB quota. If you exceed your quota, your oldest messages/posts will be deleted, until you are within quota again.

Can I purchase additional storage?
Once Librem Files and Librem Backup are released, you will be able to opt-in to a pay-as-you-go storage plan.

How much traffic can go through my tunnel?
You can tunnel unlimited traffic from up to 10 devices.

How do I report illegal content?
Any illegal content or illegal acts should be reported to the appropriate authorities who are equipped to handle it.

But if you’re successful, won’t you become just like Big Tech and lock-me-in or spy-on-me?
No, we are a Social Purpose Corporation, which means we are bound by our articles of incorporation that clearly state we cannot exploit people and that we must put doing social good over maximizing profit.

Why can’t my username contain a dot, underscore, accents, non-roman letters or emoji?
Your username needs to be valid across multiple existing and future protocols and services. So we permit only the “lowest common denominator”.
Note that most clients let you set your “display name” to anything you want.

Why can’t I have a different username for Mail and Social?
You can do this with two accounts. For example, register basic@librem.one for chat and social posts, and register complete@librem.one for mail and tunnel services.
Multiple accounts also allow you to implement a separation of concerns. For example, you could have a business account, and a separate account when discussing a medical condition with your support network.
To protect your privacy, we do not store a mapping between accounts, except in the case of family packs where one user is financially responsible for multiple accounts.

Why doesn’t Librem Tunnel work?
Please confirm that you have subscribed to a Complete or Family Pack account. Then visit your profile page to activate your tunnel connection. Once you have done this your Librem Tunnel client will work.

Why doesn’t Librem Mail work?
Please confirm that you have subscribed to a Complete or Family Pack account.

Can I send and receive encrypted mail on my Apple device?
On the macOS desktop you can use Thunderbird to encrypt email with OpenPGP. Read the EFF’s how-to on PGP for macOS
There is no free software solution for OpenPGP on iOS today. You can still send and receive temporary messages from the Mail app.
With enough backers, we will build a solution! (See our stretch goals!)

What details do I need to set up Librem Mail in the iOS Mail app?
Follow the steps from Apple to Set up your email account manually with the following details:
Account type: IMAP
Host name: imap.librem.one
Outgoing mail server: smtp.librem.one

Why is configuring Librem Mail in the iOS Mail app so hard?
Librem Mail is a new email provider. Our server details are not yet recorded by Apple and unlike other clients, the Mail app doesn’t perform this lookup automatically.

Will you release your apps on F-Droid?
Yes! In the meantime, any app that speaks our open protocols will work. We recommend:
Riot for chat, Tusky for social and K-9 Mail for mail.

Where can I find other compatible apps, including desktop clients?
The following guides and lists will help:
Chat. See the Matrix Clients Matrix.
Mail. See the FSF’s Email Self-Defense guide. Send an encrypted email to Edward!
Social. See the Mastodon apps page.
Tunnel. See Liberty CLI our command-line tool with tunnel support. Contributions welcome!

Purism
3D renders are artist renderings, for illustration purposes. Images and specifications are subject to change depending on manufacturing requirements.
Unless otherwise noted, contents created by the Purism team on this website are copyleft with a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.


And more fsf online free stuff

https://www.fsf.org/blogs/community...free-software-tools-for-staying-in-touch

https://www.fsf.org/blogs/community/how-to-livestream-a-conference-in-just-under-a-week

#4517295 - 04/20/20 07:09 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Ventoy
A New Bootable USB Solution


Ventoy: create bootable USB media that uses ISO images
by Martin Brinkmann on April 20, 2020 in Software - No comments

When you want to create a bootable USB device, you may use programs like Rufus for that or tools provided by the developers of operating systems. What these tools do, usually, is to extract an ISO image to the USB device and make the device bootable in the process.

Ventoy is a new software application for Linux and Windows that does things a bit differently. Instead of extracting an ISO image, it allows you to place the actual ISO images on the USB device so that you may boot from them directly. The program supports multiple ISO images that you can place on a USB device and uses GRUB as the boot manager.

You can transfer multiple ISO images to the device once the Ventoy structure has been created on the device using an installer. It is possible to place Windows and Linux images on the device to boot from them whenever the need arises. Updating of ISO images is a breeze as well as you simply replace an ISO image with another.
..

http://www.ventoy.net/index.html

- I haven't tried it but if it does what it says its very promising.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Related booting live iso from disks - other methods;
for Linux you can boot iso of "Any distribution that ships with a Loopback.cfg" with SuperGrub2Disk and even from the HDD with this method; https://eawonlinux.neocities.org/eollinux-quicktut1.html Specifically it addresses how to use a bootable DVD (or CD) iso to install (from a second drive) when you have no DVD (or CD). Or it can just boot a live iso from the primary but you would NOT be able to install it - see the notes.

https://www.supergrubdisk.org/ - http://www.supergrubdisk.org/wiki/SuperGRUB2Disk

also rEFInd , see: https://eawonlinux.neocities.org/eolrefind.html is a boot manager that can select any bootable iso (its something you would install replacing a Windows or Linux boot manager )

#4517716 - 04/23/20 06:13 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Zoom unveils a host of new privacy, security features

Troubled video conferencing platform upgrades encryption in Zoom 5.0
Charlotte Trueman

Looking to bounce back from a spate of recent security miss-steps, video conferencing platform Zoom has announced a variety of new privacy and security capabilities in Zoom 5.0, a key milestone in the vendor's recently launched 90-day security plan.

The primary difference between the current version of Zoom software and Zoom 5.0 is the addition of support for AES 256-bit GCM encryption; it’s designed to provide increased protection for meeting data and resistance to tampering. The new level of encryption will be available across Zoom Meeting, Zoom Video Webinar, and Zoom Phone.

The company pointed users to a download page for the updated software.

In a statement, the company said the system-wide account enablement will be in place within the next two months, once all accounts are enabled with GCM. Zoom 5.0 will also allow account administrators to decide which data center regions their account-hosted meetings and webinars use.
..


I checked the download url https://zoom.us/download but no version 5 is there yet.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



Apple moves to fix flaw affecting up to 500M iPhones

The bug, which also exists on iPads, was discovered by ZecOps
Reuters
Reuters (ARN) 23 April, 2020 09:16
Distributors

Ingram Micro Australia Sektor Synnex

Comments
Credit: Adam Patrick Murray / IDG

Apple is planning to fix a flaw that a security firm said may have left more than half a billion iPhones vulnerable to hackers.

The bug, which also exists on iPads, was discovered by ZecOps, a San Francisco-based mobile security forensics company, while it was investigating a sophisticated cyberattack against a client that took place in late 2019. Zuk Avraham, ZecOps' chief executive, said he found evidence the vulnerability was exploited in at least six cybersecurity break-ins.

An Apple spokesman acknowledged that a vulnerability exists in Apple’s software for email on iPhones and iPads, known as the Mail app, and that the company had developed a fix, which will be rolled out in a forthcoming update on millions of devices it has sold globally.

Apple declined to comment on Avraham’s research, which was published on Wednesday, that suggests the flaw could be triggered from afar and that it had already been exploited by hackers against high-profile users.

Avraham said he found evidence that a malicious program was taking advantage of the vulnerability in Apple’s iOS mobile operating system as far back as January 2018. He could not determine who the hackers were and Reuters was unable to independently verify his claim.

To execute the hack, Avraham said victims would be sent an apparently blank email message through the Mail app forcing a crash and reset. The crash opened the door for hackers to steal other data on the device, such as photos and contact details.

ZecOps claims the vulnerability allowed hackers to remotely steal data off iPhones even if they were running recent versions of iOS. By itself, the flaw could have given access to whatever the Mail app had access to, including confidential messages.

Avraham, a former Israeli Defense Force security researcher, said he suspected that the hacking technique was part of a chain of malicious programs, the rest undiscovered, which could have given an attacker full remote access. Apple declined to comment on that prospect.

ZecOps found the Mail app hacking technique was used against a client last year. Avraham described the targeted client as a “Fortune 500 North American technology company,” but declined to name it. They also found evidence of related attacks against employees of five other companies in Japan, Germany, Saudi Arabia, and Israel.

Avraham based most of his conclusions on data from “crash reports,” which are generated when programs fail in mid-task on a device. He was then able to recreate a technique that caused the controlled crashes.

Two independent security researchers who reviewed ZecOps’ discovery found the evidence credible, but said they had not yet fully recreated its findings.
Read more
Apple and Google partner for Covid-19 'contact tracing' tech

Patrick Wardle, an Apple security expert and former researcher for the US National Security Agency, said the discovery “confirms what has always been somewhat of a rather badly kept secret: that well-resourced adversaries can remotely and silently infect fully patched iOS devices.”

Because Apple was not aware of the software bug until recently, it could have been very valuable to governments and contractors offering hacking services. Exploit programs that work without warning against an up-to-date phone can be worth more than US$1 million.
..


Uhh wow! The supposedly securely patched phone not so secure after all..

#4517999 - 04/25/20 01:34 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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mobilespecs.net - Smartphones, tablets, laptops and other gadgets technical specifications database

Quote
The mobile phones database with secret codes for accessing hidden features that can unlock the hidden functions of the phone. Tablets, laptops and other gadgets technical specifications database, users reviews.


I found it easy to find all my Laptop specs here quickly.

#4519507 - 05/04/20 07:43 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Linux and Webcam - disable | enable
How to disable your laptop’s webcam in Ubuntu 18.04, and also all other current Ubuntu releases.
To disable Webcam temporarily:

You can disable your webcam device easily via modprobe command.

Open terminal either via Ctrl+Alt+T or by searching for ‘terminal’ from app launcher. When it opens, run command:

sudo modprobe -r uvcvideo

The command removes the module from Linux kernel. Webcam is disabled until you reboot Ubuntu.

To permanently disable webcam in Ubuntu:

You can add a rule into configuration file, so your Ubuntu machine never starts the webcam kernel module on boot.

Open terminal and run command to edit the configuration file:

sudo gedit /etc/modprobe.d/blacklist.conf

When the file opens, add two new lines and save it.

#Disable webcam
blacklist uvcvideo

To revert the changes, simply remove the 2 lines, save the file and finally reboot.

------
comment:
works in Ubuntu 16.04 / Linux Mint 18 also

You do not need to reboot to reactivate it.
simply type:
sudo modprobe uvcvideo

And the camera is reactivated


also: some laptops have a setting in the bios setup or mfg. program to disable.

#4519520 - 05/04/20 08:36 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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Tips: How to safely use bitcoin for payments

I found these pages from respected altcointrading to be precise and easy to follow:

https://www.altcointrading.net/howto/pay-with-bitcoin/

...
Cold device for cryptocurrencies
What’s a cold wallet

A cold wallet is where cryptocurrency traders and holders store coins they are planning to hold for multiple years.

The cold wallet is “air-gapped”, it doesn’t ever get online and lives on a device that is not normally used for anything.
The device that carries it

A device that carries cold wallet is not to be used for your normal day to day work. It is offline, it had its disk scrubbed and OS reinstalled before the cold wallet came on to it and it does not connect to the internet ideally not even for making a transaction.

Of course, a perfectly ideal device is no device: learn about paper wallets.

The wallets on the cold device must be backed up to make sure it’s not your single point of failure. The best backup is the seed written in pencil on a sheet of paper stored in a safety deposit box or split and given to multiple people, but depending on what you do it might be important for you to backup the wallet files too because the seed recovery doesn’t retain your transaction notes nor address labels.
...


....
Option 1: Paper Wallet

If you are on a clean, offline device you can simply display the seed and write it down with a pencil and a paper. Then choose a receiving address and write it down too,
into your regular notebook or into whatever app you are using on your laptop to make notes, so that money can be sent into that wallet and so that you’ll be able to check your balance with an online block or ledger explorer.

Another way is to get a paper wallet generator. A paper wallet generator will print your seed or private key along with your public address and a QR code that you will be able to scan with your smartphone. Do not use anything that is hosted online. You should use a package that you downloaded from Github, ideally from a release page of your coin’s developer team or from a link that was recommended on the dev’s website, and you should have read the code before using it. Always use a paper wallet generator offline and to print it out it is safer to connect to a printer via a cable instead of wifi. Also use your own printer, not a public one because the data sent to print are in some cases retrievable from printers. (You see how much easier it is to just write things down with a pencil.)

Paper wallet generators for some popular cryptocurrencies:

Bitcoin
Ethereum
Litecoin
Monero
IOTA
Stellar Lumens
PIVX

note: see the page for links
Originally Posted by continued

Option 2: Encrypted file
...


Non-Digital Backups
How to back up your wallet seed (non-digital)

The ultimately best way is a piece of paper and regular pencil. No pen, ink, gel – just a regular pencil. Nothing beats its longevity.

Keep your wallet seed in a trezor (meaning an actual safety deposit box). If you worry about your coins being lost in case something happened to you, you can split your seed and give each part to a person you trust and instructions to a lawyer. You should not give the whole seed AND instructions to a single person.
The information in this article comes as it is without any guarantees. Your keys, your crypto, your responsibility.

-----------
Alternatively you can get info from bitcoin itself https://bitcoin.org/en/getting-started But frankly the above altcointrading.net has the information presented more clearly for beginners.

#4519531 - 05/04/20 09:24 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
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How to get an add-free tracking-free Neocities.org website and make a bit of money

https://neocities.org/

https://neocities.org/tutorials - Penelope the cat can help you learn html or you can look to links, get a page made elsewhere and upload

Quote
Static site generators allow developers to make a web site that has many properties of dynamic web sites, except it generates static HTML which can then be uploaded to Neocities.
Hugo
Jekyll
Next.js
Gatsby


  • FAQ
  • Neocities free sites have only a 1 GB size limit. No zips No file downloads. You can host only webpage stuff and some images (see below).
    Many use a site like https://www.mediafire.com for downloads - but note Mediafire has adds and tracking
  • no hotlinking of content from non-Neocities sites (ex. no image hosting)
  • Neocities has a web interface to upload you webpages (easy) or you can use the api (complex)
  • paid supporter sites can Mount your site as a drive on your computer (webdav)
  • you can download your whole site as a .zip for backups instantly (go to edit site ~ dashboard, scroll to bottom of page and you see the link - Download entire site)
  • neocities free you also can propogate the site on an IPFS node (for geeks really)
  • With neocities you can get tips - visitors can pay with paypal or bitcoin - of course you need to get those first from either paypal or bitcoin


Originally Posted by neocities allowed file types


Currently Allowed File Types

Neocities is best with files that are used for making static HTML web sites, such as:

HTML (.html, .htm)
Image (.jpg, .png, .gif, .svg, .ico)
Markdown (.md, .markdown)
JavaScript (.js, .json, .geojson)
CSS (.css)
Text (.txt, .text, .csv, .tsv)
XML (.xml)
Web Fonts (.eot, .ttf, .woff, .woff2, .svg)

This is not a complete list of the file types we support, but it is still recommended that you focus on files used for making web sites. The full list of supported file extensions is:

asc atom bin css csv dae eot epub geojson gif gltf htm html ico jpeg jpg js json key kml knowl less manifest markdown md mf mid midi mtl obj opml otf pdf pgp png rdf rss sass scss svg text tsv ttf txt webapp webmanifest webp woff woff2 xcf xml

In addition, we have measures in place to prevent hotlinking of content from non-Neocities sites.
Why are there restricted file types?

At the moment, Neocities is trying to grow sustainably. Our goal is to provide you with a free web site so you can arrange content in any way you want. In order to make sure we can continue to do this, we need to put in place measures to prevent Neocities from becoming a "file dump host". We don't currently have the resources to deal with preventing this from happening if we let users upload anything they want, so the temporary solution for now is to only allow file types that we know are useful for making web sites.

For example, allowing users to host executable (EXE) files provides a way for attackers to host malicious content, and we want to minimize that. Also, if the site starts being used to host malicious content, it is possible that search engines like Google will punish us in rankings, or that our datacenter operators would tell us we can't do business with them, which would affect everyone's site on Neocities.

MP3 music and MP4 video has similar problems, because if the uploaded content became very popular ("goes viral"), it would overwhelm our servers and make our bandwidth much more costly. And hosting rich-media content directly is almost never the best way to do it. Soundcloud provides a great way to host music, and Youtube does a very good job with taking your video, processing it, making sure it works on all browsers, and then provides an easy way for you to embed that content in your web page.

If you have a file type you believe should be allowed, please contact us and we will see if we can put it in for you.

We are constantly working on upgrading our infrastructure to deal with these problems more effectively. Until then, we have a whitelist of allowed file types, but we will let you know if this changes in the future. Thank you for your understanding.
Is there a way to remove the whitelist?

Yes! If you become a supporter, we will remove the whitelist for your file uploads, and you can upload anything you want (except illegal/copyrighted content, of course)! Becoming a supporter reduces the "file dump" risk, which makes it a lot safer for us to allow file uploads of any kind.

Keep in mind that it's still better to host things like videos on Youtube. They've spent a lot of time and invested a lot of money into building a platform for sharing high-bandwidth video very efficiently all over the world. And they don't charge you for bandwith, even if your video becomes very popular (infact, you can make money by sharing their advertising revenue with them).



How to get Tips
get account, login, upload / make pages.

go to account, settings, Manage Site Settings, Tipping
then you will see:
Code
Site Tipping

This adds a "Send a Tip" button to your site profile, allowing people to send tips to you for your site. 
This will send users to PayPal to send money to your account. If you have a Bitcoin address, you can add that too.

Enable Site Tipping:

PayPal email address:

Bitcoin address:

update

#4520077 - 05/07/20 10:35 PM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 602
FsFOOT Offline
Member
FsFOOT  Offline
Member

Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 602
Disable new Firefox 76 urlbar junk

I searched far and wide everywhere including ghacks.net and mozilla but no one clearly posted the way to disable everything......... and finally had to guess. Finally my urlbar has no searching, shows all urls and no extra 'visit' or anything pops below it anymore.

Now when you done your browser urlbar now when typing looks like this:
[Linked Image]

Voila'' ! Fixed to back to the original way an simple urlbar should be - at least for now
you see - no more extra junk smile

First of all go assuming you want to do this go into into Firefox preference and uncheck all search engines and junk, then.

type in url to open:

Code
about:config


(ignore stupid warning and select
show all)

Here are my settings:

Code
browser.urlbar.autoFill	false	
browser.urlbar.ctrlCanonizesURLs	false	
browser.urlbar.decodeURLsOnCopy	false	
browser.urlbar.default.behavior	32	
browser.urlbar.delay	50	
browser.urlbar.eventTelemetry.enabled	false	
browser.urlbar.filter.javascript	false	
browser.urlbar.formatting.enabled	false	
browser.urlbar.matchOnlyTyped	true	
browser.urlbar.maxCharsForSearchSuggestions	20	
browser.urlbar.maxHistoricalSearchSuggestions	0	
browser.urlbar.maxRichResults	0	
browser.urlbar.oneOffSearches	false	
browser.urlbar.openViewOnFocus	false	
browser.urlbar.openintab	false	
browser.urlbar.placeholderName.private	DuckDuckGo	
browser.urlbar.speculativeConnect.enabled	false	
browser.urlbar.suggest.bookmark	false	
browser.urlbar.suggest.history	false	
browser.urlbar.suggest.openpage	false	
browser.urlbar.suggest.searches	false	
browser.urlbar.switchTabs.adoptIntoActiveWindow	false	
browser.urlbar.trimURLs	false	
browser.urlbar.update1	false	
browser.urlbar.update1.interventions	false	
browser.urlbar.update1.searchTips	false	
browser.urlbar.update1.view.stripHttps	false	
browser.urlbar.update2.expandTextOnFocus	false	
browser.urlbar.usepreloadedtopurls.enabled	false	
browser.urlbar.usepreloadedtopurls.expire_days	14	
services.sync.prefs.sync.browser.urlbar.matchBuckets	true	
services.sync.prefs.sync.browser.urlbar.maxRichResults	true	
services.sync.prefs.sync.browser.urlbar.suggest.bookmark	true	
services.sync.prefs.sync.browser.urlbar.suggest.history	true	
services.sync.prefs.sync.browser.urlbar.suggest.openpage	true	
services.sync.prefs.sync.browser.urlbar.suggest.searches	true


Note that I don't use sync so I don't change those setting they are default - if you use sync you might? want to change those.

Also note I use private browsing and defalut is so this:
browser.urlbar.placeholderName.private DuckDuckGo
you might or not have - not sure.

Note also I have a bunch of oither stuff turned off like hints, suggestions, etc.

Note you have push 'enter' (aka return key' on your keyboard to fully set the value to firefox in some fields after you changed them like browser.urlbar.default.behavior 32 )
Now close the window, close and exit browser.

^ If that's what you want ^ like I do, a simple original url bar
then the above are some settings I made to do so.

Please no questions - these are the settings you can duckduckgo from their webpage any other questions (not urlbar anymore (yay! smile since its no longer active).

Attached Files myff76urlbar.gif
#4520613 - 05/12/20 07:56 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 602
FsFOOT Offline
Member
FsFOOT  Offline
Member

Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 602
Helping from Home

Tools for Tech support and more:

Anydesk
supported: Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, IOS, FreeBSD, RasberryPi, Chrome OS .. that's why its called Anydesk!

TeamViewer
more or less the same but see Community Knowledge Base Which operating systems are supported as for some like the new IOS 10, 11 and Chromebooks there are some caveats.

Helping from home: Handling remote support
Written by Gerald Himmelein on January 14, 2020.

"Hey, sorry to bother you, but you know so much about computers. I have this problem ..." If this is the start of a phone call by a friend or family member, it usually means they are in real trouble. Good thing there are such things as remote support tools – they save you the hassle of a half-hour drive to fix what may be a trivial problem.

There are about a dozen remote access tools for Windows on the market. Among the free choices, the best choices are TeamViewer, AnyDesk and miscellaneous Virtual Network Computing (VNC) clients, UltraVNC being the most popular among the latter.

If you are already used to a particular remote access tool, it's probably best to stick with it. VNC software can be a problem to set up with less-experienced users because of NAT issues with routers between the two computers.

AnyDesk and TeamViewer are pretty much foolproof and perfectly suited for the purposes described here. In both applications, the helpee shares a numerical code with the helper. The helper uses this code to connect to the target machine. From that point on, the helper can see and control the other partner's desktop. But getting to that point can be a challenge of its own...


Quote
...First steps in remote assistance

For the purposes of this article, AnyDesk and TeamViewer essentially fulfill the same function. Still, there are some differences in the way they connect the person seeking help with the helper.

AnyDesk provides a single download. When the application is launched, it generates a nine-digit "address". The user asking for help gives their address to the helper who enters the code into the "Remote Desk" input field and clicks on "Connect". Once other user confirms the connection, their desktop is shared with the helper. When the connection is cut, AnyDesk asks whether the user would like to install the application permanently.

TeamViewer uses a slightly different approach. The download page offers both a standard version, a "QuickSupport" module and a portable version. The QuickSupport module is specifically designed for users who require help and simply displays a ten-digit ID and a short, alphanumeric password. The standard version offers several installation options – if you are asked on the phone what to answer to "How do you want to proceed?", the other party has downloaded the wrong file.
...


Quote
...The phantom cursor

First-time remote supporters often stumble across an initial moment of awkwardness where the mouse cursor moves in unexpected directions or clicks do unintended things. This is hardly ever caused by gremlins. The far more common cause is that both parties are moving the mouse or typing at the same time. Quite often, the other party isn't even aware of doing it: An elbow accidentally touches the mouse, an impatiently tapping finger keeps hitting the Ctrl key...

Quote
...Cleaning up
On closing the connection, AnyDesk will ask both parties whether they want to install the app permanently. Presuming that this will not be a regular event, both users should click on "No." One reason for this is that once installed, remote access software could possibly be exploited by malicious third parties. Also, most remote access sessions happen in irregular intervals. If the software is updated in the meantime, a new download will be required in any case.

AnyDesk has the ugly habit of not shutting down cleanly, but just minimizing itself to the notification area. Users will have to expand the notification area with a click on the small upward arrow (^) next to the clock, right-click on the AnyDesk icon and then choose "Quit" to completely close the application.

TeamViewer QuickSupport does not offer an installation option, but it will ask for an e-mail address after the connection is closed. Users can simply click on the "X" in the upper right corner of the window to close the application. The full version asks the user at start-up whether the application should be "Run only" for one time use. When ending a session, the full installer will also present a dialog which should be closed with the upper right corner "X."...


The above quotes from the blog of SoftMaker Office 2021 for Windows, Mac and Linux The free beta version is now publicly available.

Although there are many Office products that are free on Linux, etc. SoftMaker Office is reputed to be the one that most exactly reproduces Microsoft documents for the professional.

Whether open source advocates like it or not, Microsoft Office and the Docx format is what most of the world uses. On Libre Office, users can import these files. For the most part, it works fine, but due to the fact that these files are not being read and used directly in their original apps, formatting sometimes is disturbed.

SoftMaker Office takes a different approach. Instead of importing the data from files, it just reads and saves in the Microsoft Formats everyone uses by default. For Linux users who have jobs (or classes) that require saving documents in the Microsoft formats, this is a killer feature.

#4557511 - 02/24/21 06:49 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 602
FsFOOT Offline
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FsFOOT  Offline
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Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 602

✔️ EAW 1.28 now available at GOG.com

#4566467 - 04/29/21 07:03 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 602
FsFOOT Offline
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FsFOOT  Offline
Member

Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 602
Well just a FYI stuff everyone should read.

Behind the One-Way Mirror A Deep Dive Into the Technology of Corporate Surveillance

Basically how we are all spied on now. Yes its truly greed + tech on steroids has now turned the world into something far more sinister than us readers of Orwell's 1984 could have imagined.
After reading this if you still think you are not tracked you might not be.. human that is.. lol.

Last edited by FsFOOT; 04/29/21 07:04 AM.
#4568251 - 05/13/21 08:03 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 602
FsFOOT Offline
Member
FsFOOT  Offline
Member

Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 602
Test your browser to see how well you are protected from tracking and fingerprinting

coveryourtracks.eff.org

#4583551 - 10/25/21 08:32 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 602
FsFOOT Offline
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FsFOOT  Offline
Member

Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 602
Originally Posted by Am I FLoCed?

[Linked Image]
Google is testing FLoC on Chrome users worldwide. Find out if you're one of them.
Google is running a Chrome "origin trial" to test out an experimental new tracking feature called Federated Learning of Cohorts (aka "FLoC"). According to Google, the trial currently affects 0.5% of users in selected regions, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, India, Indonesia, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, the Philippines, and the United States. This page will try to detect whether you've been made a guinea pig in Google's ad-tech experiment.

#4589805 - 01/21/22 08:55 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 602
FsFOOT Offline
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FsFOOT  Offline
Member

Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 602

Gaming on Linux has not always been straightforward as it is now. The community has struggled to get Windows games running on Linux thanks to the anti-cheat mechanisms in games making the job even more difficult. However, Proton has brought in a revolution in Linux gaming, and most of the Windows games can be played on Linux now.

For starters, Proton is a compatibility layer by Valve that helps translate DirectX Windows-only games to Vulkan on Linux. In this article, let’s look at some of the best Linux Gaming distros that you can download and game on right now.

#4593110 - 03/02/22 04:13 AM Re: HARDWARE / SOFTWARE FAQ and USEFUL LINKS [Re: Joe]  
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 602
FsFOOT Offline
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FsFOOT  Offline
Member

Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 602
Guardian Project https://guardianproject.info/

While smartphones have been heralded as the coming of the next generation of communication and collaboration, they are a step backwards when it comes to personal security, anonymity and privacy.

Guardian Project creates easy to use secure apps, open-source software libraries, and customized solutions that can be used around the world by any person looking to protect their communications and personal data from unjust intrusion, interception and monitoring.

[Linked Image]

See some of our recent and ongoing work below

Clean Insights gives developers a way to plug into a secure, private measurement platform. It is focused on assisting in answering key questions about app usage patterns, and not on enabling invasive surveillance of all user habits.

Keanu Engine offers app and web experiences that enable safe and secure communication among communities.

Círculo helps connect you to a reliable network of six peers. Establish protocols, send alerts and keep those in your circle informed.

Convene is a matrix-based chat platform that supports sharing of any kind. Rooms are private and encrypted by default.

Onion Browser is your trusted connection to Tor on iOS through a privacy-focused web browser.

Orbot is a Tor-Powered VPN for Android that keeps app traffic safe and unblocked.

Second Wind is an offline content and apps distribution system for Android devices, powered by the F-Droid open app store project.

CDR Link is a secure helpdesk. We provide secure Signal, PGP, Whatsapp & Telegram channels for your community.




Last edited by FsFOOT; 03/02/22 04:21 AM.
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