Privacy is essential in any operating system.

Android is a system that supports the secret folders function. However, it is not the only one. In fact, Microsoft has also integrated this feature. Although in this case, it is necessary to follow a series of steps. In that order of ideas, we have prepared this post to tell you how to create secret folders in Windows 11. In this way, we can keep the information protected from eavesdroppers. This is especially useful in these times with so many malicious threats on the web. On the other hand, let’s keep in mind that other features designed to take care of users’ privacy have not turned out to be so good. In fact, it turns out that incognito mode is not as secure as it appears to be, although we’ll talk about that in a future post.

Steps to create secret folders in Windows 11

Before we go any further, we want to make one thing clear. In Windows 11, you can not only create secret folders to protect your important data or those files you don’t want anyone else to see. In fact, you can go one step further. However, we will tell you about that later. Here, we will explain step by step what to do to create secret folders in Windows 11

• The first thing to do is to go to the Windows 11 desktop.
• Now, you must create your folder in the traditional way with right click and Create folder.
• Then, you should save in this folder all the files and information you want.
• After doing this, you should right-click on the folder.
• In the Windows 11 context menu, you must click on Show more options.
• Now, you go to the Properties tab.
• Next, click on the Customize tab.
• Then, you will see some options, but the one that interests you is Change Icon.
• After clicking on this option, it will open a floating menu with a series of icons from which you can choose to change it.
• You simply have to slide the icons until you find one that appears in white, as if it were transparent.
• Just apply it and click OK.

In this way, you will have already hidden the folder icon. However, this is not enough. Indeed, you will still be able to see the name of the folder. So, then, you must do the following.

• In this secret folder, you must right-click and click on Rename.
• In the name field, hold down the ALT key and enter the code 0160.
• With this command, you will make the name disappear in its entirety.

How can you hide folders in Windows 11 for better security?

Secret folders in Windows 11 are great for keeping other people away from your private files. However, there is another option if you want to go one step further. In fact, you can hide the folders directly. This will give you additional assurance and peace of mind.

It should be noted that the above method will help you to prevent other users from seeing your private files so easily. However, things can happen that can accidentally cause the invisible folder to be discovered. This is where the hide folder trick comes in, so that only you will be able to see the contents. Just follow these steps:

• The first thing to do is to access the File Explorer in Windows 11.
• To do this, you can press the Win+E combination or click on the folder icon in the taskbar.
• Now, you must click on the View option located on the top bar.
• This will display a series of options, but you must click on View.
• In the new context menu that opens, you must make sure that the Hidden Items option is not checked.

This is the first thing you should do. However, this is not all. In fact, you must now change the folder status to hidden with these steps.

• You have to go to the folder you want to hide and right-click on it.
• Then, you have to click on Show more options and then on Properties.
• This will take you to a series of tabs in a floating window, but you must position yourself in the General section and locate the Attributes section at the bottom.
• Now, just check the Hidden box.
• Finally, you must apply these changes and click on OK.

Why privacy is important in Windows 11

In today’s digital age, privacy is more important than ever. Fortunately, Windows 11 has taken major steps to ensure that user data is kept safe from malicious actors. By implementing cutting-edge security measures and tools, Microsoft has provided a secure environment where users can have confidence that their information is protected.

Controlled Folder Access is just one of the many features that make Windows 11 such a secure operating system. This tool prevents unauthorized access to important files and folders, giving users peace of mind that their sensitive data is being safeguarded.

Windows Hello is another innovative security feature that utilizes biometric authentication to log users into their accounts. This extra layer of security provides an additional level of protection against potential cyber threats.

But that’s not all. Windows 11 also includes additional layers of encryption for sensitive data, which ensures that information is kept private and secure. Additionally, features such as Activity History enable administrators to monitor user behavior on the system, giving them the ability to take necessary steps if any suspicious or malicious activity occurs.

With these robust security measures in place, users can rest easy knowing that their private information will remain just that private. Windows 11 provides a secure and trusted environment where users can confidently use their devices without fear of having their data exposed or exploited by bad actors online. All these measures combine with the secret folders in Windows 11 to increase user privacy. Bye!

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Prevent content blocking

Certainly, privacy when browsing is the most popular use of a VPN. However, we can also spoof the location you have. This is something that has become popular in the gaming environment. In this case, when you activate the VPN, the computer will end up connecting to its server. It will then be from this server that the Internet connection is made. Thus, if you are in China and you connect through a server in the United States, all the services will think that you are in this country.

In this way, what will be achieved is to pass all levels of censorship that may exist in some countries. One of the great examples is China. Let’s remember that to connect to Google, Facebook or Twitter, this type of system is required.

Download P2P content

It is true that nowadays P2P networks are practically forgotten. Indeed, they are related to the downloading of pirated files, with a lot of supply and demand nowadays. But in some cases you can find some Torrent that are not piracy and are completely legal.

But because there are numerous legal problems with piracy in various countries, many Internet providers end up blocking downloads. For this reason, if you want to download a Torrent in a completely legal and secure way, you can make use of a VPN to circumvent these restrictions.

Save money on your purchases

It is a reality that the value of money varies from country to country. Suppose you see a product you like. Then you will be able to find it at a fluctuating price depending on the location of the online store.

Thus, when you want to make a purchase to get it much cheaper in another country, you will have to opt for the use of a VPN. The issue that may arise is that you may not be able to access the delivery of this product. This is why it is recommended above all for downloading services. However, it can also be used to book a flight or hotel for cheaper prices.

Access to Netflix’s exclusive catalog

Streaming platforms do not have the same catalog in all countries. For example, in France you will not find the same series as in the United States, so you do not have an international catalog. With the VPN, as mentioned above, you will be able to connect to any country in the world. From that moment on, you will be able to consult the catalog, since it will simulate as if you were there.

Above all, it should be noted that this is a function that you will use. Most of all when traveling outside your home country. But also when the premiere of a series does not take place worldwide, but you want to watch it at all costs. The problem is that sometimes the bandwidth available is very limited on the worst quality VPNs. This is why it is recommended for use on networks without any data limit.

Download applications that are not available in your country

Previously we have focused on the series of the different streaming services. However, it should be noted that location restrictions are also found in the iOS, Android, or macOS app stores. Due to local regulations, restrictions may apply.

In this way, by accessing the application store with the VPN active, it will be possible to download the application that is only available in another country. However, in addition to this, to use it on a day-to-day basis, you will also have to use the VPN. Especially since various location restrictions are integrated.

A vital tool for telework

Teleworking is gradually gaining ground in many companies, with its advantages and disadvantages. And it is that many of the offices in which teleworking can be recognized, have systems that can only be accessed if you are in the office itself. It is a security system that prevents anyone else from connecting.

Thanks to the VPN, it will be possible to connect to the private intranet. In effect, it simulates that you are working from your office, although the reality is that you are at home. Obviously, this is something that the company itself makes available to you, to be able to access this work environment.

Drastic improvement in your privacy

There are a few options in the VPN market that offer privacy features. Especially regarding the fact that they are storing all browsing data. The main function lies in the difficulty of IP tracking. What it does is that it does not create a digital footprint to avoid commercial tracking. In short, it will be avoiding the creation of the famous cookies that haunt us while we are on the Internet.

But in addition to this, when you want to be in a public network, it is also advisable to use it to avoid hacking the connection easily. Ideal for making bank payments. Or also, when accessing the Public Administration with your digital certificate, it is advisable to do so with an active VPN.

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From Waterfox to Librewolf

In 2015, a tuned version of Firefox, called Waterfox, began to be developed. Its purpose was to improve performance and privacy management over the original. Subsequently, In 2019, two editions of this browser were born. First, Current (the main one, which maintained that approach). Then we have the Classic (which was constituted as a full-fledged fork to maintain compatibility with the old XPCOM and XUL add-ons).

However, its creator, Alex Kontos, decided in 2020 to sell Waterfox to the British company System1. It should be recalled that shortly before it had also acquired the search engine Startpage. In addition, it already owned an online advertising platform (based on pay-per-click). Users disliked this decision because they understood that the motivations of the new owners would not be appropriate. They were right, as some of their development decisions have already caused some controversy.

So, in 2021, the community decided to start its own alternative project to Waterfox. The intention is to continue using the Firefox code as a base to create a browser that clearly bets on the defense of user privacy. And so Librewolf was born.

What makes it different from other browsers?

Librewolf is often described as a fork of Mozilla Firefox. However, this term is not quite correct. In a fork, from a certain point, each project starts to evolve separately. On the other hand, this is not the case. Indeed, each new version of Librewolf is always compiled based on the latest stable version of Firefox. Therefore, it allows us not to have to choose between privacy and being up-to-date in terms of features or security patches implementation.

Simply put, as with Waterfox, with each release they apply similar adjustments to the Firefox base, summarized as follows:

• Enhanced privacy: Tailored settings to maximize privacy, without sacrificing usability. Firefox’s ‘Enhanced tracking protection’ is present by default. It also enforces the deletion of cookies and site data after each session, disables form autofilling. In addition, it protects against fingerprinting by enabling RFP (part of the Tor Uplift project) and disabling WebGL (a strong vector of web ‘fingerprinting’).
• Private search engines: Your default search engine is now DuckDuckGo. In addition, it only offers equally private alternatives, such as Searx or Qwant.
• No telemetry or intrusive add-ons: No user monitoring, no automatic updater, no adware (Mozilla VPN). No integration with Pocket tool.
• Integrated content blocker: Librewolf includes and enables by default one of the best content blockers on the market, uBlock Origin.

Moreover, we are in the presence of a multiplatform project. Therefore, there are installers for Windows, GNU/Linux and macOS. Thus, we have seen that LibreWolf is the browser that best protects your privacy. We are clear that the privacy of our data is vital. Consequently, any measure to protect it is a good thing. That’s all for now, goodbye!

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Browser privacy

There is currently no easy way to ensure total privacy through browsers. Indeed, studies have found that online advertising companies can use web browsing histories as fingerprints of individual browsers over time. Firefox’s researchers emulated their study in 2020 with 52,000 Firefox users and confirmed the results. In addition, they found that Google’s and Facebook’s tighter control over online advertising makes the privacy issue more of a concern.

Google plans to use FLoC to replace third-party cookies. In Europe, it is not approved because Google recently admitted that FLoC might not be compatible with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). In reality, this modality will not solve the problem of browser traces.

Browsers that protect your privacy

We must use a web browser that protects our privacy when surfing the Internet. In this way, our data is protected, and we do not have any type of data filtering to major companies such as Google.

Brave

A browser for privacy guarantees is Brave which is based on Chromium. Therefore, by default it blocks ads, the trace left by our browsing and ad trackers. It currently has 50 million active users between its versions for computers and mobile devices. Brave has removed a lot of Google source code from its version of Chromium, to improve user privacy. In addition, it has spoken out against the FLoC ID proposal we talked about earlier, which will not be enabled in Brave.

Moreover, this privacy browser features advanced security. It even incorporates traffic routing with Tor. Furthermore, a reward system where, if you’d like, you can earn cryptocurrencies for viewing ads.

Mozilla Firefox

Mozilla Firefox is probably the best browser for preserving anonymity on the web. Undoubtedly, for those who use a multi-browser strategy to enhance privacy, this browser is a must-have. To seek our anonymity, it will block third-party tracking cookies and social trackers. In addition, to further enhance our privacy, it has options such as Firefox’s multi-account containers. These containers are about tab. But unlike the normal ones, the websites we visit in them will have access to a separate area of the browser storage.

Tor Browser

Another great browser for privacy is Tor Browser, which uses the Tor network. Actually, it is also known as The Onion Router. Tor has a multi-layer encryption, in which our traffic is forwarded and encrypted three times as it passes through the Tor network.

Also to maintain our anonymity:

• Block trackers.
• It tries to make all users look the same, making it harder for you to be identified.

The downside of the Tor browser is that browsing can be slower, and furthermore, it is possible that some pages may not work due to the architecture of the Tor network.

DuckDuckGo Extension

DuckDuckGo is a search engine focused on privacy. We meet a strong supporter of users’ privacy rights. This is an ideal alternative to improve the privacy of a traditional browser. So you can improve our anonymity:

• By avoiding advertising tracking networks, where your privacy protection will block all the hidden trackers they detect.
• Increasing encryption protection by forcing sites to use an encrypted connection whenever available.
• Enabling private searches.

The DuckDuckGo extension is available for these browsers:

• Google Chrome.
• Mozilla Firefox.
• Microsoft Edge.

Very well, in this way we have seen the most private web browsers. So, you have no excuse to protect your privacy while surfing the web.

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Privacy is its main goal

Until now, Proton offered its services separately. As a result, one of the objectives of this rebranding is to create this new ecosystem with privacy as a defining characteristic.

• Proton Mail: the encrypted email service that was the first to be launched. Moreover, is still committed to an encrypted system that prevents anyone except the sender and receiver from accessing the message.
• Proton VPN: this platform offers yet another layer of privacy to protect not only our email, but also all the data transfers that we make from our PC or our mobile. The service has a more limited free version. It also has a more ambitious paid version with many more options.
• Proton Calendar: our agenda and calendar is another of the elements that we can protect from prying eyes, and allows us to have a manager of these appointments that integrates seamlessly with Proton Mail.
• Proton Drive: this new service is again an alternative to Google Drive, OneDrive, or iCloud. It also allows us to have a private space in the cloud for our documents and files. However, it also allows us to share them with our contacts.

A renewed and elegant interface

All these tools share a unified interface. So, it is easy and intuitive to use them both through the browser and through native applications on our PC or laptop and on our mobile.

These services can continue to be contracted independently with their respective monthly fees. In fact, there is a free plan that allows us to use all these services in a more limited way. However, if you want to take advantage of all the potential, there are combined plans that are also interesting at an economic level.

But the name change and updated pricing is not just an aesthetic change. In fact, it offers advantages to users who will enjoy for example more storage in the plans, but as we say they can combine them all. Regarding the plans, we have already mentioned that you can start using the services free. Regarding the plans, we have already mentioned that you can start using the services free. However, the payment plans allow you to get the best of these tools. For example, Proton Unlimited is available for just under $11 per month. This plan includes the following:

• 500 GB of total storage,
• 15 email addresses,
• three custom email domains
• VPN with more than 1,700 servers in 60 countries and support for streaming or even Tor over VPN.
• Streaming support
• Tor over VPN support.

A change with people in mind.

Xataka.com colleagues spoke with Bart Butler, CTO of Proton. With them, he shared the reasons for the new changes. Mainly regarding the change of name and strategy. As we mentioned previously, the company took this path thinking about people. They believe that people want an ecosystem, beyond individual products.

On the other hand, privacy remains the absolute center of the whole strategy. However, this privacy and end-to-end encryption are not entirely identical to that offered by WhatsApp, for example. E-mail is different, it’s based on PGP, Butler says. Furthermore, he emphasizes that PGP is a proven and constantly evolving technology. However, the most important thing is that it is interoperable, and this allows it to work between different systems.

There is another key element to Proton’s proposal. We are talking about usability. Indeed, it is essential to make a product as secure as possible. However, it is just as important to know how to use it easily. Therefore, it is not necessary for the user to know what encryption is. It is enough to know that it is there and that you can use it effortlessly and without any disadvantage.

Privacy is key

Other serious concerns relate to privacy. In June 2013, Edward Snowden uncovered a terrible reality in which the NSA’s massive spying was blatant. This set off alarm bells and triggered more than ever the debate about privacy and how to protect it. However, almost a decade later, the forecasts are not encouraging.

Scandals of this kind surrounding large companies such as Google or Facebook are a constant occurrence. However, the vast majority of users end up using their products. Most of all because they work well, they allow sharing everything and, above all, they are free.

According to Butler, there is no problem sharing content via Instagram or Facebook. The privacy issue is to control who sees your data and in what context. Therefore, people value that control more than they do. Consequently, many people would be willing to switch providers. That is, if they get a service that provides them the same as Google, but with data control, then they would adopt it.

A different business model.

It’s no secret that Google profits from its users’ data. Actually, as Butler says: Google’s customers are not its users, but advertisers. On the other hand, Proton aims to make money while preserving the privacy of users. In other words, customers are willing to pay to safeguard their data. In other words, they have suffered so many data breaches that they would be willing to pay a company to preserve it. That’s to say, Proton is betting on a different business model. So clear is their commitment to privacy, that not even they have access to our data. In addition, they are committed to open source. Therefore, people can be part of the project and monitor how it evolves. Bye!

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What is Obfsproxy

When talking about Obfsproxy we refer to a subproject that belongs to Tor. It is used to hide web traffic when surfing the Internet. Basically, it is similar to surfing through a VPN or the Tor browser. In fact, the purpose is the same: to hide the IP address and encrypt the information we transfer when browsing. So, what is its raison d’être? The reason is that there are certain countries that use what is known as IPR. These tools are used to block VPN connections so that users cannot bypass geo-blocking, for example. There are even governments that can force operators to filter SSL traffic.

The Obfsproxy project is used to bypass these blockages. In this way we can surf the Internet without information being leaked. Certainly, it was created for Tor. However, it has features that can be exploited by developers to design, implement and test traffic hiding layers that have nothing to do with Tor. In this way, it also began to be used to hide traffic through OpenVPN.

Therefore, Obfsproxy is a project devised from Tor to improve users’ privacy. In other words, it is a way to avoid possible blocks that may exist for the use of a normal VPN or the Onion browser itself. Let’s remember that both are very popular options for accessing the network. On the other hand, it was created mainly for use in countries such as China or Venezuela, where there may be problems to browse freely.

What it is used for and how it works

By now, you are probably wondering what Obfsproxy is really for. Actually, the answer is clear. The purpose of this tool is to make browsing more private. It serves to prevent a government of a certain country from classifying Internet traffic by protocols. In fact, they know exactly what they are: (HTTPS, HTTP, SSL, VPN…). In this way, it could block the protocol it is interested in and cause users to have problems.

If, for example, a user uses OpenVPN, Obfsproxy will hide the traffic to make it look like normal and harmless HTTP traffic. This way, you will avoid blockages and problems to enter a certain web page or use an online service.

An interesting point of Obfsproxy compared to other encryption options is that its developers have managed to leave no trace. The linking protocol it uses has no recognizable patterns. This allows communication to be established without network monitors being able to detect anything strange. Obfsproxy can be used in both OpenVPN and Wireguard. To use it, it is necessary to have a working OpenVPN server. It can be one of our own or of a third party.

Is it enough to maintain privacy?

We have seen how tools such as VPN or proxy help to maintain privacy. However, this is often not enough. It is essential to take certain measures, beyond using Tor or the Obfsproxy project. For this reason, we are going to give you some tips to surf the Internet without problems and without compromising your personal data.

Always use security software

To surf the Internet safely and without privacy problems, it is essential to have a good antivirus and other programs that protect us. For example, Windows Defender is one of the most widely used. You can also try others such as Bitdefender or Avast.

However, there are tools such as a firewall that can block insecure connections. There are also browser add-ons that help improve privacy. Consequently, it avoids attacks that can compromise our personal data and affect us at any given moment.

Avoid exposing data

In this case, it is a common-sense advice. To maintain privacy on the network, it is necessary to avoid making our personal data public. For example, you should not make your e-mail address public when you post a comment on a web page or in an open forum.

It is also advisable to take care of the data we expose through social networks. On this type of platform, there may be bots that collect personal information from users to subsequently trade with it and make a profit. Therefore, it is advisable to control what information we will be exposing publicly on the network and thus improve privacy.

Install applications only from reliable sources

Another tip is to install software only from safe and official sources. For example, websites of the application itself, official stores and warranty platforms. This way we will avoid installing software that can be dangerous and steal our personal data.

It is true that sometimes we can find unofficial applications that may have interesting features. However, we do not really know who may be behind that software. Perhaps it has been created maliciously with the sole purpose of stealing personal information.

Try not to make mistakes

Finally, another recommendation is to avoid making mistakes that could expose our personal data. For example, do not open an attachment that arrives by e-mail without really knowing where it comes from. We do not know if it could be a security threat.

Most cyber-attacks, threats that put privacy at risk, will require the victim’s interaction. They will need us to make a mistake, such as opening a file or installing a program. This also includes exposing our data in some way and thus stealing information.

In short, protecting privacy when surfing the Internet is essential. We can make use of tools such as a VPN, proxy or the Tor browser. In addition, to avoid possible blocking in certain countries, the Obfsproxy project has appeared. As we have seen, this is a great way to enhance our privacy when surfing the Internet. Bye!

The post Using Obfsproxy to encrypt the connection. appeared first on Linux Windows and android Tutorials.

TunnelBear

Easy to use, free and with many server options available. In short, TunnelBear is one of the best free VPNs you can have if you are searching for something basic, a simple interface, easy to use and with servers in more than twenty countries. It also has an acceptable connection speed. As a result, you will be able to browse without worries and without advertising, so you won’t have any type of interruption.

Another great aspect is safety. Indeed, e does not keep any record of our data, the identity is completely private and also uses AES 256-bit encryption with which we can be totally safe. Moreover, it is a cross-platform tool available for: Android, Windows, macOS, iOS, Firefox, Opera, or Chrome. The main limitation of this service is that it only provides 500 MB of monthly navigation. Consequently, it will not be useful for watching series or streaming movies. However, if this is not enough for you, you can purchase the premium package starting at $3.33 per month.

Windscribe

Now it is the turn of one of the most attractive options in this list. Indeed, Windscribe provides 10 GB of data to surf during the month. But that’s not all, since this amount can be extended by 5 GB more by simply tweeting about it. It has an application for computers or browser extension and its use is basic, with a very intuitive interface and support options via chat.

This service also offers high security standards. Indeed, it has an advertising and malware blocker and does not keep track of your usage. In addition, it has a good encryption and security system that will keep us protected when using it. It is compatible with macOS, iPhone, Linux, Firefox, Chrome, and Windows. We have already mentioned that it offers enough data capacity, so we can enjoy streaming like Netflix. Additionally, it allows downloading torrents even in the free version, with unlimited access.

Betternet

Betternet offers an unlimited browsing service. It is also available for all types of devices. It is available for all types of devices, and you can install it on iOS, Android, PC or Mac, as well as with its extensions for Chrome or Firefox. Its main advantage is that it has no data or speed restrictions. Therefore, you can use it freely. In addition, it does not require registration, making it a highly recommended option.

Another of its benefits is that it allows you to hide the location and IP address. This platform also offers a paid service. Consequently, we will be able to enjoy more speed, without ads and with larger locations. Betternet is available for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Chrome.

Speedify

Speedify is a private network service that you can have at no cost, although it has a much more complete and unlimited paid version. It has locations in 24 different countries on five continents. It is also available for Windows, iOS, or Android.

Its operation is quite intuitive and simple, and you can choose the locations you want to connect to or let the service automatically choose for you. Once connected, all you have to worry about is surfing the Internet and visiting the pages you want from any of the compatible devices. As a limitation, we will only enjoy up to 1 GB of maximum data.

Cloudfare’s WARP

Cloudfare has a project that allows us to have a free VPN on our cell phone, for iOS and Android. We will be able to access it at no cost to increase security and privacy. However, it does not hide the IP address and sometimes does not allow access to certain blocked content. On the other hand, it will improve security if you connect from a public Wi-Fi network and encrypt the data when you do so.

FreeOpenVPN

FreeOpenVPN provides access to several free OpenVPN servers. There you will find configuration files for OpenVPN that you can download free. Therefore, all we have to do is go to the FreeOpenVPN.org site, search for the service we want to connect to and download the OpenVPN software compatible with our operating system.

Certainly, its interface is not the most attractive. Besides, its use is not for everyone, since it requires minimum technical knowledge. However, it offers several servers to access. In addition, it does not have any type of limitation of use or download. Although its speed is not the best, if it can serve to protect our data in case of accessing a public Wi-Fi.

VPNBook

VPNBook offers free unlimited data, connections via OpenVPN and PPTP protocol and AES encryption. This tool is compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. Like the previous option, its interface is not very flashy. Likewise, it is not very well known. However, the company assures us that it does not keep any logs of our Internet activity while using VPNBook, but it does keep some connection logs. However, this is done for a short period of time. This tool is financed by advertising. Since it is unlimited, we can use it to unlock streaming services, and we can also use it to download torrents.

ZoogVPN

It is an unregistered VPN provider that offers users a VPN connection with a limited number of servers and on a single device. On the other hand, its interface is not the most comfortable. Therefore, we recommend its use only on an unplanned basis. That is, if we connect to a free Wi-Fi connection in a hotel or restaurant, for example.

Although it is a free VPN, there are limits. It has a speed limit and a monthly data limit, exactly 2 GB per month. As we have just mentioned, it only allows VPN connection to one device at a time. It does, of course, allow torrent downloads. However, it is not very useful for bypassing streaming content restrictions.

Okay, we have finally looked at the best free VPNs (part 2). This is the culmination of a review of the best services for protecting our data and safeguarding our privacy. See you soon!

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What is WinExt Privacy Protector

The first thing we will do is to define what WinExt Privacy Protector is for. It is an application whose mission is to help us eliminate everything that can affect privacy in Windows. Accordingly, we will protect the data to prevent it from being stolen by an attacker and gaining access to personal information or any data.

Keep in mind how many files and documents we store on our computers. Many of them contain personal data, confidential information and even passwords. The same goes for registering on a platform and using a particular program. Everything is full of data and, even if we don’t use it, it’s still there. In many occasions, all that we store remains without us deleting it. In that case, we will use WinExt Privacy Protector. This tool helps us to delete files that are not necessary but could be affecting privacy.

Its working mechanism is elementary. In fact, what it does is to scan the system, searching for those unwanted files that can be a problem for privacy. For example, it analyzes browsers such as Chrome or Firefox, installed applications and documents. In short, anything we have on the system that could be a threat to our privacy. In this way we can eliminate it and prevent it from ending up in the wrong hands.

How to use this program

Using this program is simple. It is totally free, and we can install it on Windows 10 and Windows 11. The first thing we have to do is download the application. Remember to always download from legitimate and reliable sources to avoid security problems that affect the system. In this case, there is no concern as we are providing the official website of the tool developer.

Once we have downloaded the file, the next step is to install it. As usual, the installation process is rapid and easy. After it is finished, we will see a screen like the following one. There you will see the general parameters of the installation process.

As we can see, it analyzes Windows applications and browsers. For example, the browsing history, downloads, cookies, cache. Some boxes are checked by default. However, we can check or uncheck others as we wish. If we want to analyze everything that is marked or what we would like to add, we only have to click on the Scan button. It will automatically start to analyze those files. In addition, it will show all the content related to the browser’s search history, for example.

Removing harmful elements

After the scanning procedure has been completed, it is time to delete those files containing data and information that may put privacy at risk. With this intention, you just have to press the Clean button. This button appears on the right side of the program. For example, we can delete the browser history, stored passwords, usernames… The same with installed applications.

One thing we must say is that the program interface is elementary. It does not really have many options. We will only have the basic buttons to select or deselect everything, delete, perform an analysis, etc. It is a basic program to carry out a maintenance on the privacy of the system. It is useful in order not to have files that can be used against us. For example, if we share the computer, it can come in handy.

Tips to improve safety

One thing we must say is that Tips to improve safety. In reality, we are not going to find a tool that protects us against viruses and other varieties of malware. It simply acts to protect information and make privacy always present. Therefore, we are going to give some tips to improve security.

Use a good antivirus

It is essential to have security programs installed. A good antivirus will prevent the entry of malware and any threat that can compromise our system. It is something we should always apply, regardless of what system we use. Regarding Windows, a very common one is Windows Defender itself. But we can also use others such as Avast or Bitdefender. However, beyond the antivirus we’re also able to install other programs, such as a firewall. In addition, there are browser extensions that increase network security.

Keeping the system up to date

Of course, something essential for security is to have the equipment correctly updated. We must always have the latest versions. Likewise, we must correct any vulnerability that may exist and that may serve as a gateway for a hacker to enter and steal data. It is essential to keep the operating system updated. As well as any program that we are using. In addition, the drivers of the network card or any other component must also have the latest versions to work correctly and avoid problems.

Install only official applications

When installing programs, always make sure that you are adding legitimate software, downloaded from official sources. Otherwise, we could have major problems that put our security at risk. A hacker could use a modified application to sneak in malware. He could use links as if they were really official sites, but they are full of viruses and other threats that steal our data and passwords.

Common sense

But if there is one thing that is important for improving safety, it is common sense. It is imperative to avoid making mistakes that can damage the proper functioning of the equipment. For example, a typical mistake is to download a dangerous e-mail attachment. Another common mistake is downloading from dangerous sources. Keep in mind that most cyberattacks will require user interaction. They will require us to download a file, install something, etc. Hence, common sense is very essential to avoid problems.

Ultimately, we have seen how to use WinExt Privacy Protect to increase privacy in Windows. Bye!

The post How to use WinExt Protector and improve privacy in Windows. appeared first on Linux Windows and android Tutorials.

Why you need a home VPN.

When talking about VPN, the first thing that comes to mind is privacy. Indeed, perhaps its best known function is to connect to the Internet as if you were surfing from another country. Well, creating a home VPN will not be useful for this. If you want to make a website think that you are connecting from somewhere else, then you can use a free VPN. Of course, this implies entrusting our data to companies that may not be very trustworthy. However, you can also try a proxy.

Protecting your privacy when surfing the web.

A home VPN is something simpler, and focused on privacy when browsing. It takes care of creating a tunnel for your data. As a result, all the requests you make, such as searches, emails and so on, are encrypted and pass through the VPN server to be sent to the Internet. It will therefore mask your computer’s IP address, preventing applications and companies from being able to track you when you surf the Internet. As a result, websites will not know the IP address of your router when you connect. Instead, they will only know your VPN`s IP address.

A domestic VPN increases the security of your data.

Let’s clarify this point a little: When you connect to a website, you actually connect to the server where it is hosted. This server receives a request from your computer, and uses your IP to find you and send you its content. Consequently, all the websites you visit store your IP. In fact, it works as if it were your postal address on the Internet. Then, your data can be sold to advertisers. They get to collect all the pages that a particular IP’s computer has been to.

In this context, a VPN acts as an intermediary so that you do not give your real IP when connecting to a website. When visiting a website using a VPN server, it is your VPN that establishes the connection with the web server. Consequently, it is its IP address and not that of your router that it will be storing. So, it is more difficult to determine which websites you have visited.

In addition to this, a VPN server also allows you to create a local network without the need for your devices to be physically connected to each other. They only need to be connected to the same network. In any case, it will save on cabling.

How to set up a home VPN step by step in Windows 10

The first thing you have to do is to enter the Windows Settings. With this in mind, press the Win+I combination. Once there, enter the Network & Internet settings.

In the next window, click on Status. Then scroll down and click on Change adapter options.

Configuring the new connection

This will open a window of the old Control Panel of Windows 7 and earlier versions, which is still hidden inside Windows 10. Press F10 to display a hidden menu bar. In this hidden menu, you have to click on File>New incoming connection. With this, you will be telling Windows that you want to create a new connection, which in this case will be the VPN.

In the next window, you will be able to see user accounts that you can add to the computer. There will be both those you have created for Windows logon and those of your Microsoft family group. Therefore, you need to choose which accounts you want to be able to access the VPN. It is advisable to create a new user by clicking on the Add someone button. Consequently, this username and password will be used later.

A new window will open. Once there, just add a username and password. You can add any values you want, but remember that you will use them later to access the VPN.

After confirming the user, you must configure the type of connection. In this case, through the Internet.

In the next screen, you configure the network protocols and software you want to use. Please select the Internet Protocol version 4 option and clicks on Properties. By default, the user will use your IP address. Therefore, let’s change it to assign a different IP range. Consequently, it will behave like a VPN.

In the next window, locate the IP Address Assignment section. Specifically, click on Specify IP address.

Investigating the IP address of the router.

Here, you will have to specify a range of IPs that are within your IP address. Let’s see how to do it. Let’s see how to do it. To accomplish this, you first need to know your IP address. With this in mind, open the Windows Command Prompt application and type the ipconfig command. The console will return a text with several IP addresses. Please copy the Default Gateway IP. This is the IP address of your router.

Returning to the previous screen, you must type a range of numbers within your IP. Therefore, the first three sets of numbers must be the same as your router’s IPs . For example, if the IP of my router is 192.168.31.1, then the IPs of the range you have to type must start with 192.168.31. Finally, in the last value you can enter as many as you want, depending on the number of IPs you want to give to the VPN. In this case, you can set it from 192.168.31.20 to 192.168.31.30 to assign 11 IP addresses.

After configuring the IP address range, just click OK and you will return to the Network Software screen. Consequently, just click on Allow access to create the VPN.

After a few seconds, the process will be finished.

Open ports in the router.

First, let’s open the VPN port of your router. To complete this, you have to enter your router’s configuration using the default Gateway IP. Just copy it from the previous section and paste it into the browser. In my case, it is 192.168.31.1, but it can also be 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. The password usually comes in the router, but it is advisable to change it, once inside you have to open the port 1723 in your router.

The configuration screen will be different for each router. What you have to do is to add a rule by typing the IP of your computer and port 1723 to open it. I would like to point out that your computer’s IP is not the same as the router’s IP. Back to the ipconfig command, your computers will be where it says IPv4 Address.

Granting permissions in Windows Firewall

Once again, you must log in to the Control Panel. Once there, follow the path System and Security>Windows Defender Firewall. Then click on Allow an application or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.

In the next window, please click on Change settings. Next, scroll down and check the Private and Public checkboxes of the Routing and remote access option.

Connect to your VPN

After you have done this, you have your VPN connection created. Now you just have to connect from your Android or iOS device. With this intention, use the IP that appears in the IPv4 Address as the VPN server name. Remember to use the ipconfig command.

To connect to the VPN from Windows, you have to go to the settings and enter Network and Internet. Once there, click on the VPN section. Please click on the Add VPN option to proceed to add the one you have configured.

A configuration window will open. In it, under VPN Provider, you have to choose the Windows option. Then, you must give the configuration the name you want so that it can be identified in Windows. Next, under Server name or address, enter the IP that appeared as IPv4 Address two steps back. At the end, you will also have to write a name and password, which will be of the user to whom you have given access.

That’s it! From here you can connect from any device. They just have to be connected to the same network. Furthermore, you must enter the exact IP address along with the configured username and password. Finally, we have seen how to create your own VPN in Windows 10. Bye!

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How to increase download speed in Google Chrome

Google Chrome includes a new experimental feature that will allow you to improve download times, in short, it will make downloads more efficient by splitting the file into fragments. To activate this function you must do it through the “Chrome flags”, this is a set of experimental options, which will be included in the future in the stable versions of Google Chrome, but you can activate them without any problem to test them.

First step

Open Google Chrome

Second step

Then in the address bar enter chrome://flags

Third step

After that, in the “Chrome Flags,” search bar enter “Parallel download”.

Fourth step

Then click on the “Default” button and select “Enabled”.

Fifth step

Finally, restart Google Chrome.

How to improve Google Chrome privacy on Android

It’s no secret that every day we browse the internet, a lot of our data is collected by the websites we visit, and Google Chrome includes a setting that allows websites to record our movements. This information comes from the accelerometer of our device. Many fitness apps use this sensor to count our steps, so websites could use this data to know where we are going and more. Luckily in Google Chrome for Android, it is possible to disable this option and prevent them from collecting even more information about us.

First step

Open the Google Chrome browser

Second step

Then go to Google Chrome settings and click on “Site Settings”.

Third step

After that, go to “Motion Sensors” and disable the option.

Now you don’t have to worry about Google Chrome sharing this data with any site you visit.

Conclusion

The parallel download function can be a great help when downloading large files, even so, remember that it is an experimental function that may fail, in case you don’t like it you can disable it by following the same steps. Also, disabling the “Motion sensors” will help you is to increase your privacy while browsing, at least in Google Chrome for Android we have the option to prevent those websites can accessing our motion data. When nowadays privacy is one of the most important issues in the world of technology. Both functions are focused on improving your user experience. We invite you to try them out and let us know what you think. Thanks for reading. Bye!

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