What is a VPN and what is it for?

Let’s start with a brief review of what a VPN is, for all those people who are not very clear about this concept. VPN stands for Virtual Private Network, which, in simple terms, is a space created with an extension of your local connection that hides your real location and encrypts your data.

In other words, a VPN is a security tool that hides your data from any software that wants to access it. It also alters your IP to make it look like you are connected from somewhere else. The intention is to keep your data safe from any malicious website or person. Opera offers its users a completely free VPN that is already included in its browser.

VPNs have many advantages, however, they are not perfect and there are some not-so-beneficial aspects of using VPNs. We invite you to read on to learn more about these private networks.

How to activate Opera VPN on Android?

The VPN button is within easy reach and you just have to press it to activate it every time you want an extra touch of security in your browsing.

To activate Opera VPN on an Android phone, follow the steps below:

First step

Download and install Opera browser by following the link below:

Google Play | Opera browser with AI

Second step

Then log in to the Opera browser and click on your profile icon in the lower right corner.

Third step

After that, select the option that says VPN.

Fourth step

Once you have activated the VPN for the first time, you can check the settings to make sure they are correct. The next time you want to access these settings, you can press and hold the VPN icon.

Fifth step

Finally, you can choose the virtual location, which defaults to America. You can also set the VPN to be active only for incognito windows. And that’s it!

Just like that, the free VPN of the Opera app on Android will be activated. It’s important to mention that this VPN doesn’t have a lot of customization options, however, it does the main job, that is, protecting your data.

Is it possible to activate a free VPN in Opera GX and Opera Mini?

Opera has several versions of its browsers, each version has a different mission and has different functions, depending on what its users are looking to achieve. The other versions of Opera are Opera GX and Opera Mini, both of which are very good alternatives, but neither has a free VPN integrated. So if you want to be able to have a VPN while using some of these other two versions of Opera, you will have to resort to a third-party VPN. But don’t worry, there are many other free VPNs for Android, you just have to find the one that works best for you. Thanks for reading. Goodbye!

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My hard drive is failing

If you are experiencing issues with your hard drive, don’t worry. There are some solutions that might help you fix the failure. And best of all, without having to resort to a full operating system restore.

What is the solution? Follow these steps to try to solve the problem:

• Check cables and connections. Make sure that the power and data cables are securely connected to both the hard drive and the motherboard. Sometimes a loose connection can cause recognition issues and disk malfunction.
• Error scanning. Windows 11 comes with a built-in tool called Error Checking that can identify and repair hard disk issues. You will find it in the Drive Properties section, accessible from File Explorer. In the pop-up dialog, click on Tools and then on Check.
• Free up space on the hard disk. Sometimes a lack of disk space can cause performance problems. Uninstall unnecessary programs. Also, delete temporary files and empty the recycle garbage can to free up disk space.
• Update drivers and firmware. Outdated software could be behind your issues. We recommend that you visit your hard drive and motherboard manufacturer’s website. Once there, check for driver and firmware updates.
• Use the Optimize Drives tool. Windows offers a drive optimization tool that helps improve disk speed and performance. It is available in the Properties dialog of each drive.
• Run the System File Checker. This tool searches for and repairs corrupt system files that could be causing hard disk issues. Open a CMD window with administrator privileges and launch the sfc /scannow command.
• Use a third-party program to check the status of the disk. There are third-party tools that can provide more detailed information about the health of your hard drive. Some examples are CrystalDiskInfo or HD Tune.

Computer storage is full

Sometimes the problem is that your computer’s storage is full. Also, you can correct this problem without resetting Windows.

What is the solution? Here are some ideas:

• Delete unnecessary files and programs.
• Empty the recycle garbage can.
• Use the Windows disk space freeing tool.
• Transfer files to an external disk or in the cloud.
• Uninstall applications that you do not use.
• Delete temporary files and browser cache.
• Compress large files.

An application has stopped working

Just because an application is not working properly does not mean that you should completely restore your computer. What is the solution? You should know these ideas to recover the correct functioning of your programs:

• Restart the application. Close the application completely and reopen it. Sometimes temporary difficulties can be resolved with a restart.
• Check for updates. Make sure the application is up-to-date.
• Check the Internet connection. Certain applications may require a stable connection.
• Repair or reset the application. Reset the application if you installed it from the Microsoft Store.
• Reinstall the application. This is especially recommended if the problem is in the current installation files.
• Update Windows. Make sure you have the latest version of Windows 11 installed. Indeed, some updates may fix compatibility issues with certain applications.
• Make sure you meet the system requirements. Certain applications may have specific hardware or software requirements.

Windows does not download updates

Another common issue is Windows not downloading updates. Before you decide to completely restore your system, take note of the following suggestions.

What is the solution? Take a look at these:

• Check your Internet connection.
• If you are connected via VPN, disable this connection.
• Restart your PC.
• Check that the Windows Update service is running.
• Delete the folder SoftwareDistribution located in the folder C:Windows.
• Force the system to check for pending updates manually.
• Temporarily disable the antivirus or firewall.

System does not start

What if the computer won’t boot? Before you completely reset it with a bootable USB, it’s worth taking a look at some possible solutions.

What is the solution? Try the following:

• Verify that it is connected to a power source.
• Restart the PC and check if the problem persists.
• Boot in safe mode to rule out software conflicts.
• Verify that the hard disk is recognized in the BIOS.
• Use the boot repair tool.
• Try to restore the system to an earlier point.
• Perform a clean boot to identify boot conflicts.

Okay, so we have seen how to fix Windows errors without having to reset it. See you soon!

The post How to fix Windows problems without resetting the PC appeared first on Linux Windows and android Tutorials.

Viruses, worms, Trojans, and other malicious specimens stalk computers and computer networks. Lately we suffer the introduction of malware of all types and for all platforms. In addition to data theft, cyber espionage and invasion of privacy. There has also been an increase in disinformation campaigns that end up posing an online risk. All this forces users and companies to take proactive measures to control them.

Major cybersecurity incidents highlight the fact that digital threats are becoming more and more dangerous. Indeed, they continue to increase in number and in the sophistication of their developments. Moreover, the situation is not going to improve as the industry continues to add billions of connected devices. Nor is it good news that phenomena such as BYOD and the hybrid work that is here to stay in the wake of the pandemic are increasing the number of vulnerable devices.

How to remove malware from your PC

Certainly, prevention is the first and foremost line of defense. However, it is not always possible to stay safe from infection. Additionally, any user will have had problems with malware at some point. Even if you have not been alerted by your security solution. If your personal computer has any of the symptoms, it’s time to take action immediately. Take a look at these 4 concrete steps as described below.

Attempts to save files

Backup copies are the greatest lifesaver to counteract any type of computer virus. Sometimes, even with some of them, such as Ransomware, they are the only solution. If you have not done it previously, you can try to save documents, photos, videos. In addition to any other type of personal or professional information that you cannot lose even if they are infected. Afterwards, you can try to recover them later on a clean system.

This group includes the most difficult ones, which will be those infected by the aforementioned Ransomware. Let’s remember that these usually involve encrypted files. So, you will be able to recover them when decryption tools are released. Of course, the goal is only to copy the files to a controlled external drive. Certainly, we should not run any of these files until they are cleaned because they can infect other computers.

To make these copies, we can use several methods. If you use Windows, it has a safe mode, also called Safe Mode or Advanced Boot. In this mode, it loads only the most basic drivers and services. Additionally, it is useful for finding and solving operating system problems that are not possible to fix in a standard boot. This is because this is where malicious code is typically loaded.

Disinfect the computer

Once we have tried to secure our essential files, it is time to start disinfection. However, it should be noted that this is not always possible, depending on the malware in question. There are times when there will be no choice but to perform a clean installation of the entire system and applications.

In cases of suspicion, the best option to remove malware from the PC is to use specialized antivirus rescue disks. This is an effective means. Indeed, a large majority of malware is loaded/hidden in memory, complicating its detection/removal once the operating system is booted.

Its operation is simple, just boot the computer with the created ransomware media. All will update the virus signature. Then, the program will start scanning and disinfecting the malware. From the file explorer of the Live CD, we will also be able to access the drive where the main system is installed. Useful if we want to delete a file. Also, we will be able to directly make the security copies that we saw in the previous section of the essential files.

System recovery

If the malware cleanup was effective, remove the rescue disk and try booting the computer as usual. If possible, install the best security solution available to you. Then check it again for viruses. There is also a good collection of very comprehensive free or commercial solutions here. If the system boots normally, check if all the applications you have installed are working properly. Also, drivers and drivers. Even if the operating system is clean and working, there may be damage.

It may happen that despite the above efforts, we have not been able to kill the infection. Consequently, the only thing left to do is to reinstall the operating system. It is possible that we have a recovery partition or system disks. Such as those offered by some manufacturers in their new equipment. In such a case, it will be the first thing to use to revert the equipment to its factory state.

We will be able to restore the operating system to factory settings using the same operating system tool. It is also a good option to use restore points. These are another simple alternative to using backups or a fresh installation. If none of the above works, it is time to perform a clean installation of the entire system. With this in mind, we will format the partition to make sure that the computer is virus free.

Recovering files

Finally, you can recover your data and applications. However, it is very advisable to thoroughly scan and disinfect the data files that you had previously backed up beforehand. Make sure they are clean before copying them back to your computer. Indeed, they could be the cause of the infection, and you may have to repeat the whole process again. It includes the revision of external USB units, another frequent way of virus camouflage.

Prevents further damage

The system partition is now clean. However, we must also check the rest of the partitions and the entire local network. Indeed, the virus could have arrived that way and re-infected the computer. You can check this with the rescue disks created earlier. In addition, you can also try with a security solution installed on the computer. Keep in mind that nowadays, it is difficult to keep a personal computer clean without any additional protection. If you use Windows, it is advisable to at least use Microsoft’s Defender, which is installed by default.

It is also advisable to change passwords. A good part of current malware infects computers with the aim of obtaining access passwords. It is not unlikely that they are in the hands of third parties, even if your system is clean. Therefore, after an infection, it is highly recommended to change them. Particularly, the local ones for authentication in the operating system to those used in Internet services. Especially those for financial services or e-commerce. Great way to remove malware.

Finally, take care of your cybersecurity

Insist on prevention as the first and main line of defense. With this in mind, it is necessary to observe due caution in the websites we browse. We should also check the applications we install. Even the reception of e-mails and attachments. In the same way, we have to check the downloads or the use of social networks. It is necessary to look at the essential update of the operating system and applications or the use of a good security solution.

We ask you to be extremely careful with Ransomware and Phishing. They are undoubtedly the two most used and dangerous types of attack at the client computer level. Most infections occur because the user opens a malicious application or program. Let’s remember that it can come from any source. Especially the usual ones such as a web browser (displaying adware, redirection to a malicious website… ). It is also plausible that the email that instead of being attached includes a link to Mega, Google Drive or Dropbox that leads to malware or messaging services in the case of mobile attacks, increasingly widespread.

A common feature of all Ransomware is that they block the operation of computers. To do this, they take over files with strong encryption and demand a ransom amount of money from the organization, company, or user to release them. The big problem is that once infected, there is no solution unless that particular type has been decrypted. The worst thing is that this usually takes years to happen and file recovery is complex. It is common to see it combined with phishing attacks. This is the second major threat and one for which extreme caution should also be exercised. Okay, so we’ve seen a few ways to remove malware.

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The program was originally developed by Mark Gorton in 2000. Almost from the beginning, it became a very popular solution. However, it then started to get a bad reputation because of the content that was shared and the poor security it included. As a result, users from all over the world stopped using this proposal and opted for other, more secure and reliable options. Many users abandoned LimeWire in favor of P2P clients that made use of the current Torrent networks.

So much so that the program ended up with a lawsuit from the RIAA in 2006 claiming billions of dollars from its creators. Basically, all this ended with the closure of the application as such. As a result, its developers had to pay more than 100 million dollars to various record companies.

LimeWire brought back to life by Artificial Intelligence

But as we now know, it looks like this is a program that is going to have a second life. This is largely thanks to the current AI platforms. Thus, the LimeWire program, once famous for music piracy, was launched last year. However, it launched into the content creation sector. But it hasn’t stopped there. Indeed, now the company behind the software has just announced the acquisition of BlueWillow. Here we are talking about a popular image creation platform using generative Artificial Intelligence.

Basically this translates to the popular LimeWire now competing with services like Midjourney. BlueWillow was founded earlier this year with a focus on generative AI. Additionally, it currently claims to be the second-largest AI image generation community, after the aforementioned Midjourney.

This means that LimeWire, after the purchase, will focus on maintaining BlueWillow’s presence on Discord. Obviously, it will also integrate its functions into its own website.

Here it will be part of the paid and free services of the program. These services are aimed at both multimedia content creators and image creators. In turn, this entry into the AI sector will help LimeWire to develop more multimedia services in the future. The acquisition of BlueWillow allows the company to offer its own image generation tools via AI. It also plans to add video and audio generation with these new technologies.

A very expensive AI

The new LimeWire carries a completely opposite philosophy to the original. Recall that in the 2000s it sought to offer all paid content for free to users. However, now its mentality has changed. Indeed, now what it seeks is to take advantage of Artificial Intelligence to make money.

The prices of the AI platform to generate images automatically, range from a free mode to the Pro plan. This is more expensive, costing $49 per month. In its free mode, it allows us to generate a maximum of 20 images per day. Additionally, it obliges the user to pay 50% of the profit we get from them. The basic plan, at $9.99 per month, increases the limit of images to 2000 per month. It is also faster, and allows access to all AI models. The Advanced plan, at $29.00 per month, uploads up to 7500 images per month. It also allows us to keep 60% of the profits. And the most complete, the Pro, at $49 per month, allows us to generate up to 10,000 images per month. Here the profit margin increases to 70%.

The deal underscores the company’s efforts to grow its user community and revenues. Initially, its plan was to build an NFT marketplace for music content creators. It thus raised more than $17 million through token sales. Thus, the company was valued at about $60 million earlier this year. However, interest in digital currencies has faded almost completely. Now its top managers are focusing on AI. Thus, NFTs as a secondary activity.

As a result, LimeWire has gone from being a P2P client disowned by almost everyone, to a powerful platform for content generation via Artificial Intelligence.

The post LimeWire: From File-Sharing to AI Content Creation appeared first on Linux Windows and android Tutorials.

The most recommended applications from the Microsoft Store

Let’s see what is the list of the most recommended Microsoft Store applications. We are talking about a store that has improved in design and quality in recent years. Click on the link in each section to go to the download.

WhatsApp

WhatsApp is one of the applications you can’t miss on your computer. Meta, its parent company, has made the effort to adapt this application to the design guidelines of Windows 11. It is now a native application and not simply a web solution to connect with your friends and family.

Spotify

Spotify is a well-known platform that gives you access to millions of streaming songs. Download its official client directly from the Microsoft Store and get updates automatically.

Tik Tok

TikTok has an official application for Windows 11. We don’t mean the one you get when you install the Android app for Windows. In fact, we are talking about an exclusive development. This is another app from the Microsoft Store.

PowerToys

PowerToys is a toolkit that adds advanced functionality to Windows. Using it on a regular basis, it adds interesting features to the operating system. However, by downloading from the store, it widens the range of possibilities.

Ubuntu

Ubuntu is one of the most fascinating Linux distributions. Now you can download it directly from the Microsoft Store. Therefore, you will be able to use it inside Windows through a virtual machine called Windows Subsystem for Linux.

OBS Studio

Lovers of live-streaming and Twitch broadcasting know that OBS Studio is one of the best applications for producing content. It is an open source tool with all the tools to help you broadcast from your PC.

Mozilla Firefox

Mozilla Firefox is one of the few browsers that still stands up to the dominance of Chrome and the other Chromium browsers. It is also available in the Microsoft Store for free.

KeePassXC 

KeePassXC is a client for Windows that allows you to access your passwords stored in this open source system. It is completely free to download.

Spark Mail

Spark Mail is an innovative email application developed for Windows. It is available in the Microsoft Store for free. In addition, it has an intuitive interface and advanced features. Indeed, this application simplifies the management of your emails. In fact, it allows you to organize, answer and classify your messages efficiently.

Prime Video

Enjoy your favorite movies and series on Prime Video for Windows, an application designed to access this platform. Access an extensive catalog of content, including original productions and popular movies and series, all available on the Microsoft Store for free. Obviously, you need an active subscription.

Zoom

Zoom is one of the leading communication and videoconferencing tools on the market. Plus, you can enjoy its versatility on Windows. The Zoom application is available for free in the Microsoft Store. With it you can connect with co-workers, friends and family in virtual meetings and videoconferences.

Wikipedia

Access global knowledge with the Wikipedia app for Windows. This online encyclopedia, which covers a wide range of topics. You may not know that it is now available in the Microsoft Store for free.

VLC

Let’s talk now about VLC for Windows. This open source application is one of the most popular and versatile applications available in the Microsoft Store for free. It enjoys support for a wide variety of audio and video formats. Moreover, VLC allows you to enjoy your multimedia content smoothly and with exceptional quality.

File App

Files App is an alternative file explorer, with which you will enjoy a modern interface adapted to Microsoft’s criteria for Windows 11. It has support for cloud storage units. In addition to tabs for navigation and well-designed context menus. Undoubtedly, it is a highly recommended application.

EarTrumpet

EarTrumpet offers you a complete audio management on your PC. Thanks to its mixer, you’ll be able to determine the volume of each of the sounds on your computer. It is a free application with integrated purchases.

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This is precisely why, if we have an old PC that we are demanding a good performance, we should try to free RAM memory from time to time. Although this may seem a complex task, it is not at all. In fact, in these same lines, we are going to talk about a series of simple tricks that will be of great help for these tasks that we mentioned. In a matter of seconds, you will be able to free part of the RAM that is being consumed at that moment. So, you will be able to make Windows work like silk.

Free up RAM with these simple tricks

These tricks are valid on both hardware-limited and more powerful computers. Especially when we are demanding it to the maximum. Moreover, they are changes that can be made in a matter of seconds. In addition, we will notice the difference in the operation of the operating system.

Terminates Windows processes

Using the powerful Task Manager tool of Microsoft’s operating system, we can terminate processes with the right mouse button. All we have to do is access this functionality. Then, click on the programs and processes that consume the most RAM.

Manually closes unnecessary programs

If we have many applications open at that moment, the best thing to do is to close those that we do not need at that moment.

Remove programs from Windows startup.

We can also do it from the Task Manager, specifically if we access the tab called Startup. From there, we will have the possibility of eliminating programs that start automatically with the operating system.

Temporarily disable the antivirus.

Even if it is not forever, deactivating the antivirus for a certain period of time will help us to free up RAM. Normally, this software is constantly running in the background.

Uses third-party software.

We can also use external software solutions such as BySoft FreeRAM to take care of these tasks.

Restart the PC.

As happens on many occasions, restarting our computer will help. This will free up RAM so that we can start working smoothly again.

Disables software running in the background.

Windows gives us the possibility, through its Configuration, to deactivate the execution of programs in the background. This way, we will save a great amount of RAM memory.

Removes visual effects from the interface.

In order to offer us a more attractive user interface, Microsoft includes a multitude of visual effects in the system. Here we are talking about animations and the like that we can disable in order to save memory.

Keep Windows and its programs up to date

Both Microsoft and the rest of the software developers send constant updates of their projects. In many occasions these optimize the operation of all this, which will be very useful in this case.

Run the antivirus from time to time.

High RAM memory consumption can also be caused by some kind of malware that has been installed on Windows. It never hurts to run an antivirus scan of the computer from time to time.

The post 10 secrets to free up RAM on Windows and make your computer run much faster appeared first on Linux Windows and android Tutorials.

What is a .dll file?

They are a type of libraries containing code and data that can be used by more than one program at the same time. Dynamic-link library (DLL) files introduce the concept of shared library on Windows.

Any program on our computer can use a functionality contained in a DLL to implement a dialog box. It helps to promote code reuse and more efficient use of memory. A very good example would be the Comdlg32.dll file that performs common functions related to dialog boxes.

This file type offers a number of advantages to developers. The strengths of this file type are:

• Use of fewer resources: A DLL can be generated that is used by several programs. This avoids duplication of code and thus saves space on the hard disk and RAM. In addition, they have an impact on the performance of programs running in the foreground and background.
• Modular architecture: Promotes the creation of modular software. Helps developers save time and costs. Indeed, it is easier to use existing elements than to create a program from scratch.
• Ease of implementation and installation: Upgrades or fixes, implementations and installations do not require new linking to the software. In addition, since sharing is allowed, the update benefits all software that uses the .dll.

Not all good news

While they have many advantages, this type of .dll file is not without its problems. It is not uncommon for one of these files to generate issues and prevent a program from running. The difficulties with these files, years ago, were very problematic for games, although they have improved.

Nevertheless, they have these problems:

• Errors: Some executables require some .dll files to be available at the time of execution. When the file is not found, a rather flashy error appears, indicating that it failed to start because of this issue.
• Exploits: .dll injections with malicious code are quite common in Windows applications. A malicious actor can change a good .dll to one that is infected. It is required to know which .dll will be called by the operating system and then change it to an infected one.
• Speed: A dynamic linking process is slower than a static linking process. They require more CPU computation cycles. But this is a one-off, as most of the time it does not need resources.

How to solve a problem with a .dll file?

There is the DLL Universal Problem Solver (DUPS) tool that allows auditing, purchasing, documenting and displaying DLL information. Let’s take a look at the tools on which DUPS is based:

• Dlister.exe: Generates a list of all .dll files on the computer and records the information in a file or text file.
• dcomp.exe: Compares two or more text files and produces a third file and generates a third file with the differences.
• Dtxt2DB.exe: Allows the loading of b-generator text files into the dllHell database.
• DlgDtxt2EB: Provides a GUI support for .dll files.

Conclusion

They are a necessary file type that allows to reduce the load, mainly in games. The truth is that it is used for many other applications, although the best known is gaming. It saves resources, but it is also quite common for this type of file to generate a lot of problems.

The post DLL files: source of both problems and solutions on the PC appeared first on Linux Windows and android Tutorials.

In this post, we talk about three of the best options in terms of password managers with local function.

KeePassXC

This excellent password manager is a fork of the extinct KeePassX. It works for Windows, Mac, and Linux. It also has a browser extension. Of course, there are no official clients for mobile devices. However, Keepass2Android and KeePassDX for Android and KeePassium and Strongbox for iOS are apps that work with the technology of this same manager.

One of its best features is its offline password management for all its platforms. You can store as many passwords as you want locally. So that only you have access to them on your computer. It also has two-factor authentication. It includes client encryption and the possibility of sorting by categories. Furthermore, it also supports AES, Twofish, and ChaCha20 encryption.

Along with all this, another remarkable aspect is that KeePassXC is totally free.e. Although, if you like it, you can also donate to its creators.

Password Safe

A simple and secure open-source password manager created by security expert Bruce Schneier. It is also compatible for Windows, Mac, and Linux. In addition, its database uses Twofish encryption with 256-bit key.

Its client is extremely simple, and you can sort all your passwords by category. In addition, it is free and works entirely locally. Therefore, your passwords will not be stored on any third-party server.

Password Safe has independent clients for mobiles that use its technology. On Android there is PasswdSafe, while on iOS we have pwSafe and pwSafe 2, the latter being paid.

Pass

Another open-source alternative is Pass. With it, you can store all your passwords locally. It also generates random keys for the websites you register on. It is a reference among the password managers developed for Unix. Its creator is Jason Donenfeld, developer of the Linux kernel and also creator of the VPN Wireguard.

This password manager encrypts entries in GPG keys. Each password is stored locally individually with its own GPG-encrypted files. It was certainly created for Unix. However, it also has standalone clients for Windows, browsers and mobiles. For those who do not want to use GPG encryption, there is also passage. This is a fork that makes use of age encryption.

Combines password managers with other security methods

The methods mentioned above are all open source and offline functions. Consequently, they are a great way to keep your passwords secure. However, we should never let our guard down when it comes to maintaining our online security. Therefore, it is always advisable to add more layers of security through other effective methods.

Having a password manager is an efficient way to access your websites and services. This by means of randomly generated passwords. In addition, with a powerful encryption method. However, to fortify your security, it is also smart to always use other methods. For example, two-factor authentication on as many services as possible. Surfing smartly and making use of tools such as VPNs also helps. Very well, in this way we have seen some local password managers. Bye!

The post Secure Your Passwords: 3 Local Password Managers to Keep Your Data Offline appeared first on Linux Windows and android Tutorials.

uTorrent

The torrents download program par excellence needs few introductions. We are talking about a veteran tool (dating back to 2005). However, it has not lost its essence: it is surprisingly light (if you install it carefully). Additionally, it works for Windows, Mac, and Android. It also has an interesting extra. The tool is available in a web version, so you don’t even have to download it, ideal for computers you don’t own.

The free version works well, is functional, and no more downloads are needed. However, in return, you will have to watch ads and pay attention during installation to minimize the extra programs that may be installed. Throughout its history, it has had the occasional major security problem. Although being under the control of BitTorrent implies a decent support and updates, with their respective patches.

BitTorrent

It is the official BitTorrent client, and it is also a light and ad-supported alternative (the good thing is that it is free). Among its assets, a configuration so simple that makes it ideal for beginners (but it is well stocked in terms of options), an intuitive interface and you can schedule downloads. Also, its operation is impeccable.

As a curiosity, the BitTorrent app is a version of uTorrent but with a different name. Certainly, they are very similar in terms of functions. Although it has substantial differences as it is open to seeds (those who share a complete file within the torrent network once they have completed the download). In addition to comments and opinions of the web.

qBittorrent

qBittorrent offers an interesting balance between speed and simplicity at zero cost and without ads. In reality, some torrent clients offer a huge amount of features. On the other hand, others go for the basics. However, this program is right in the middle. In fact, it has the premise of meeting the needs of the majority of users, using as little CPU and memory as possible.

The software comes with a torrent search engine, multimedia player, encryption, IP filtering, torrents rating… In short, it is the closest thing to the open source version of uTorrent, but with less bloatware. It is available for Windows 10 and 11, but also macOS and Linux.

Vuze

Formerly known as Azureus, Vuze claims to be the most powerful BitTorrent client out there. To be honest, it aims high. There are two versions, a simpler one called Vuze Leap and the more complete Vuze Plus. In both cases they offer torrent downloading, multimedia player and support magnet file download links. The difference is that the Plus version includes integrated antivirus protection and the possibility to preview files.

One of Vuze’s strong points is its interface. In fact, it is clear and designed with special care. Therefore, even the most advanced functions are clear (ideal for those who are just starting out and are looking to get the most out of this way of downloading). It also has IP filtering functions, bandwidth limitation, integrated search engine and plugins to extend its functionality.

Transmission

If you want to download torrents without any more stories or complications, Transmission provides a fast download speed with a simple interface and low resource consumption. Best of all, it is open source. The interface is intuitive and basic. Therefore, it is a good choice for beginners. Moreover, it neglects details such as remote access. This comes in handy for downloading files to the computer while controlling the process from a tablet or a phone.

On the downside: you will find few advanced features that are present in the previous ones, and the customization is scarce.

Tixati

Tixaty is a BitTorrent and Linux work written in C++. In addition, its two best assets at a functional level is that it is designed to be light in terms of resource consumption. Additionally, it has tools to achieve high-speed downloads.

But it also has a fairly basic interface and comes free of ads and additional software. However, it does have useful features such as a peer selection system, Magnet link support, IP filtering, bandwidth limits and even scheduling.

BiglyBt

If you are looking for an open source and ad-free client for Windows, BiglyBT is a candidate to consider. This program is the continuation of the Vuze-Aureus project.

It has a lot of features such as bandwidth speed limits, media player, download scheduling. It is also compatible with third-party plugins and in general has extensive customization.

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Access and uses of the Windows Task Manager

Accessing this tool is extremely simple. Moreover, it can be done in several ways, including the use of keyboard shortcuts. Let’s review them:

• Ctrl + Alt + Delete. This is the method that almost everyone knows. However, it is not the fastest because in Windows 11 it does not start directly. In addition, you will have to make an additional click to start it.
• Ctrl + Shift + Esc. More direct than the previous one. In fact, it launches immediately the task manager. It also has the advantage that because of the position of the keyboard, it can be run with only one hand.
• Taskbar. If you right-click with the mouse on the taskbar, there is an option to access the manager.
• Advanced user menu. Another quick access using the mouse. Right-click on the start button to access the advanced menu. There you will also find this Task Manager.
• Run. If you are used to using commands, press the keyboard shortcut Win + R and type taskmgr.
• Search. Just type task in the general search engine, and you will see the access to this tool.

As for functions, as we said, the best known is to end a frozen application. Simply open the manager. Then, right-click on the application and click on end task.

Check why the application is frozen

What is less known is a function called analyze. This can help identify the problem. It also avoids having to terminate the application by brute force. Remember that it can result in data loss. It is available in the details tab.

Performance and resources

This is where the Windows 11 task manager really shines. Not only does it provide an overview of all running processes and applications. In fact, it also has several tools to effectively monitor system performance and how resources are allocated. It includes a lot of information, from the resource monitor (RAM, processor, graphics cards…). These elements offer real-time data visualization; diagnostic information with logs that you can share for evaluations; network details and other resources of interest.

Restarting Windows Explorer

Sometimes parts of the operating system become unresponsive (taskbar, file explorer, Startup, etc.), while other applications continue to run correctly. Restarting the PC usually solves the problem. However, restarting the browser may be sufficient. The task manager has a special action for this. If you use it, it will end the task and restart automatically.

Windows application management

The task manager is far from being the best window management tool. However, it has a couple of actions that may come in handy. To access them, you have to click on the drop-down arrow next to the one you want to manage. The ones that work offer five actions, from bring to front, maximize, minimize or end the task.

Online search for suspicious processes

You may occasionally see unknown processes in the task manager. Most of them will be legitimate. However, if you don’t trust it, you can check by clicking on the suspicious process and activating the online search. This will launch a search in the browser with the name of the application. In addition, the search includes the name of the process. Consequently, it will help you determine whether it is safe or malicious.

Additional columns for more details

By default, the new Windows 11 Task Manager only displays five columns when listing processes. These are: Name, CPU, Memory, Memory, Disk and Network. These are actually the most important ones. However, you can add up to six more columns by simply right-clicking in the header area. All of them can be useful in the right situation. Particularly the process name because it makes it easier to detect suspicious applications by their process name.

Switches between values and percentages

When browsing the process list, the CPU column can show percentages. However, in the other three default columns you can change them to absolute values, more useful in some situations. Simply right-click on any process. Then go to the resources submenu and you can switch between them.

Discover the open application file

Sometimes it is complicated to know the installation location of a particular program. The file explorer is the general option. However, if the application is in use, from the task manager you can access it in record time. Simply click on any process and select open file location. This will take you directly to the folder containing the executable file of the process. Works for applications, background processes and Windows processes. Fast and convenient.

Start the command prompt directly

In the task manager, you can go to the File menu and select run a new task to launch the run dialog box. Most people who use this tool know this because it is one of the ways to manually restart a frozen browser in previous versions of Windows. What not everyone knows is that you can access the Windows console in the same way by simply holding down the Control key. Very useful.

Starting the System Configurator

In Windows 11, if you run the msconfig command to configure the system, you will see that the startup function has been moved to the task manager. This is the tool that allows us to configure the applications that will start at startup. The tool provides information on the impact of each application on system performance and allows you to disable them at startup. If your PC is slow to boot or runs slower than usual, disable all non-essential applications/services from startup.

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