Jul 9, 2017 | General
Several weeks ago, I wrote articles about how video games are good for you. But one New York Post writer would disagree. In fact, Kyle Smith we’re losing this generation of men to video games. So you decide. Video Games: friend or foe?
Kyle Smith argues that young men substitute video games for life in the real world. He also brings statistics to try and prove his point. For example, he claims men in their twenties work 15% less than they did in the 1990s and early 2000s. Furthermore, he talks of how more twenty-something men live with their parents than ever before, and more young men drop out of the work force. You guessed it; he blames video game addiction. But look at other factors: workplace bullying, wealth inequality, longer times in traffic, higher rent costs, more people working at home, jobs sent overseas, jobs being replaced by robots. I don’t think video games are a factor in this crises.
Then he goes for the relationship factor. According to Smith, video game addicts will hit their 40s with little or no accomplishments. He says women rarely date or marry men who are less successful than them. So that’s going to mess up the dating and marriage scene. Also, that will drive the birth rate even lower because men and women don’t even want to touch each other. But then again, when video games are their only reason for living, many young men won’t even care. In countries like Japan, they even have robots who fulfill those needs. Then again, there are many other factors at play here. Millenials grew up in a generation where 50% of marriages end in divorce. I can see why young guys today aren’t so eager to leap into marriage, monogamous relationships, or family life.
Smith has a point about video game addiction. If video games affect your work, family, social life, then maybe it’s time to stop. And if the fantasy world is keeping you sedated from the real world, then maybe it’s time to stop. But other than that, I stand by my articles I wrote weeks ago. Video games, when played moderately, can actually enhance people’s life. I truly believe video games, when played together, can bring friendship. It can also hone skills like listening and problem solving and paying close attention to detail. These skills are especially needed in the workplace today, especially in the IT support industry. Video games, when played moderately, can even help increase grades in school. But what do you think? Video games: friend or foe?
Jul 7, 2017 | Uncategorized
Microsoft is one of the most powerful, dominant corporations in the world. But not even they are immune from layoffs. Microsoft lays off thousands: Thanks, technology shift!
Microsoft plans to lay off thousands of people all over the world. They have over 121,000 employees globally, but that number will decrease. So why are they doing this? Because they want to improve their cloud service. You see, they want their sales teams to promote and sale Azure, their cloud service. They need to hit Azure out of the park because they’re competing with Apple, Google and Amazon cloud services.
However, Azure is already to a great start. Their sales doubled in just the last quarter. People turn to cloud computing because it’s cheaper and easier. With cloud, individuals can stream their favorite videos and other on-demand software. Also, companies can better run websites with cloud computing. Microsoft lays off thousands: they picked a peculiar time to do so. Microsoft’s fiscal year ends in July. Apparently, so do people’s job. This seems to be a annual pattern. Last year, they laid off around 2,800 people. Also, back in 2015, they cut 7,800 jobs. And in 2017, Microsoft lays off thousands.
But this time, we don’t know how many thousands. And no Microsoft leader is talking. However, one Microsoft analysts explains why this move is necessary for workers and customers alike. He calls this a rotation. Microsoft lays off thousands with traditional sales and computer skills. Then, they will be replaced by those skilled in cloud, AI, and/or robot technology. This should be a lesson to all involved in computer repair. We should never be content with our computer service?skills. We should all be trying to learn and grow in computer science. Because our technology is changing so fast that none of our jobs are really safe. I’m sure some of these Microsoft employees thought they were safe. But not so. We need to always be prepared and learning for an ever changing field and an ever changing world. So what are doing to learn more?
Jul 6, 2017 | Security
Cyber security is a major issue for nations around the world. But if it’s not, it should be. However, some nations are doing better than others. Most secure nations: Who wins cyber security war?
So apparently, Singapore is winning. According to the UN and their ITU (International Telecommunications Union), Singapore has the best way to beat cyber crooks. My fellow Americans, don’t feel bad. The USA ranks second in fighting cyber crime. But others in the top 10 might surprise you. Then again, some won’t. Canada and Australia are the top 10 best cyber crime fighting nations. That’s not surprising to me. However, Oman and Estonia are good at cyber security too. Because they’re in the top 10.
Then what about other leading tech nations, like China, India, Russia and Germany? Russia ranked 11th. Then Germany ranked 24th. India placed right behind them at 25th. Meanwhile, China gallops to 34th place. The ITU bases these ranks on education, research, crime fighting, technical facilities, and network sharing. And the most disturbing thing of all: Half of nations surveyed have no plan in fighting cyber crime at all. In fact, small rich countries like Monaco and San Marino rank dead last in cyber security. That is a huge problem.
Because wealth often attracts cyber crime. That’s not always the case. Political tensions and sexual perversion often have a lot to do with cyber crime. But much of it has to do with money. So of course, they will go after money. Small nations like Monaco and San Marino have it. But these are the most venerable. And it’s only going to be a matter of time before they catch on. I think nations like Singapore and the US should help other nations fight cyber crime. Now I’m no fan of globalization, but when it comes to this issue, we need each other. It’s all hands on deck. That’s why we need the most secure nations to help those that aren’t. Does that explain why in our Boston computer service shop, we’ve never seen Wannacry or?Petrwrap?
Jul 5, 2017 | Computer technology
Did you know that Amazon’s Echo control 70% of the smart voice market? Then give 24% to Google Home. But what about other tech giants, like Samsung? So this is where Bixby comes in. Samsung’s Bixby: The smart voice war is on!
Samsung’s Bixby will soon join the voice assistant wars in smart technology. Nobody knows when it will hit the stores. And nobody’s giving hints, either. Insiders say Samsung has been working on this for around a year. It will do exactly what it’s competitors do now. And this is answer questions, turn off lights, and serve as other tasks humans used to do.
But can it stand up to Echo, Siri and Google home? We’ll see. Then we have those who say voice assistance is about big money and big IT support. Because it seems to be both. The number of such voice assistant speaker sales doubled in just the past year alone. And there are no signs of slowing down. In fact, voice assisted technology is probably the next big thing. For example, Microsoft’s Invoke, Apple’s HomePod will release voice tech before 2017 is out. So will China’s Alibaba Group Holding. So can they compete with that?
Samsung’s Bixby better hope so. Samsung is still recovering from last year’s notorious fiasco. Bixby is already available in their native South Korea. But as far as geography and language is concerned, that’s a long way from the USA. So naturally, it takes them a long time for them to convert to English, and American English at that. However, according to insiders, so far, the transition is a good one. Nobody knows when Bixby will make their US debut. But I bet it will make ripple effects in the smart voice war. Somebody has to give Amazon some serious competition. Can Samsung be the one to step up to the plate and make it happen?
Jul 3, 2017 | General
Ever hear of Dave McClure? He helped found 500 Startups‘; he also has close ties to PayPal and Google leaders. But now, scandal follows him. That’s because of the less pleasing aspects of humanity: unwanted sexual advancements in the workplace. However, this tech venture capitalist apologizes for advances.
In a long writing, McClure admitted he made advancements toward many women in the workplace. He also admits these kind of behavior was wrong. McClure also said he used his power and influence to try to get these women. He says, “I put people in compromising…situations. My behavior was inexcusable and wrong”.
McClure’s actions may costed him a leadership role in the very company he founded. Because in that statement, he said he didn’t change his behavior until he was forced to. That sounds like a major hint to me. However, he confessed his behavior to Christine Tsai. She’s the new CEO of 500 Startups. But this is intriguing. He didn’t exactly thank Christine Tsai…but said he needed this ‘butt kicking’. However, McClure is no longer the CEO of 500 Startups. Tsai is. However, he still talks with with the team. The talks are about what future role McClure will have with 500 Startups’, or if he’ll have one at all.
If you want to read how this tech venture capitalist apologizes yourself, I better warn you. The language is very graphic, and not for suitable reading for children or anyone who hates foul language. So my first question is: Why did he decide to apologize using such language? It seems to me if you’re going to apologize, then have some dignity and class about it. Don’t let your apology be laced with a bunch of ‘f’ words and ‘s’ words. It doesn’t sound valid. And it doesn’t sound sincere. Nevertheless, everyone in tech, from computer repair to IT support, can learn a lesson here. This isn’t the Mad Men era! You can’t keep hitting on your fellow employees in the workplace and not expect some bad consequences. Keep in mind McClure is a married man! How does Mrs McClure feel about her husband’s behavior?
Jul 1, 2017 | Software
Do you use Microsoft’s Windows App Studio? Well, those days are almost over. Goodbye Windows App Stdio: So what’s next?
Because yesterday, Friday June 30, Microsoft announced the end for this app development system. Starting July 15, only existing users will be able to use the old Windows studio. That means you only have two weeks to sign up for a system that’s going to shut down anyway. Then on September 15, the editor stops. So you won’t be able to correct anything. Furthermore, on December 1, Windows App Studio will shut down for good and forever. That’s the end.
However, they’re not taking long to replace it. In fact, the replacement’s name is Windows Template Studio. It’s their new app maker. They basically changed their code generation and existing wizard. They claim it to be a great tool to create Windows mobile phone apps. It also supports all desktop Windows, including Windows 10. It’s also an extension of their Visual Studio. And you won’t be paying any extra for this new service. The Windows Act Studio is free and you can use it with?free Visual Studio 2017 Community Edition.
But will Windows Template Studio help Windows Phone compete in the smartphone market? I ask this because Windows App Studio sure didn’t. Some who have come and gone in our Boston computer service shop game Windows App Studio a try. Nobody ever said they hated it. But nobody ever rang out it’s praises either. They sew Template Studio is less complex. I hope so because do you know how many people are making phone apps these days? Or should I say, trying to make phone apps? You never know who might come up with the next big thing. Maybe Windows Template Studio will help out with that. But will this new software help out Windows in the smartphone race?
Jun 30, 2017 | Computer technology
It’s been a busy week in the tech world. We had Google’s fine. We also had the Petya virus. That reaked havoc from the US to Ukraine. So we could use a slow computer tech news day, right? Then let’s see what’s going on around in Dubai, where Dubai robots are policing the streets.
But I almost forgot…Dubai showed off a the first flying taxi in the world! Now, they’re debuting self-driving police cars. These cars seek out criminals and others running from the law. They can do this because of biometric software. Furthermore, the Dubai robots patrol the streets look for criminal activity. So Dubai citizens beware.
Yes, they include drones that can spy on you. The robots come from OTSAW Digital, whose headquarters are in Singapore. So how did they get to Dubai? They can thank a document they call the Smart Dubai initiative. Don’t worry, the leader of these Dubai robots will be human…for now at least. The leaders name is?Lieutenant Salim Saqr Al Merri. Both Dubai and OTSAW Digital praise these bots as a way to fight crime. Not only that, they believe this will keep Dubai safer and smarter. Also, this these are the first robots that have an antenna and ground surveillance. That means they can see everything.
As far as IT support and computer advancement, this is a victory. But will it be when it comes to fighting crime? Also, when you think of hot tech nations, what comes to mind? One would say the US, China, Korea, maybe India. Rarely does Dubai come in the conversation. Since it’s the first to have police robots, maybe it should. However, I doubt this have much to do with fighting crime. I think this is a way to intimidate and control citizens. Then again, I could be wrong. I hope I am. Do you think Dubai robots will fight crime or spy on citizens?
Jun 29, 2017 | Malware, Security
Yesterday, I talked about a dangerous ransomware. The attack hit around the world, but hit Russia and Ukraine really hard. However, don’t think it’s over. I don’t believe it is. The Patya ransomware attack: What we know.
So first of all, we know the name of the attack. They call it Patya. There was some confusion about that when I reported it 24 hours ago. There are similarities to the WannaCry of May 2017 attack. But here is what makes Patya so dangerous: it cultivates. For example, it uses several methods to spread to several computers all at once. So this thing has no limits, no boundaries.
And remember our young, British hero who virtually stopped Wannacry? Well, so far, we have no such hero for Patya. There is no kill switch, not yet. However, some are working on a ‘vaccine’ to put this ransomware down. According to Ukranian authorities, ME-Doc software played a role in the launch. We still don’t know the motive. Many in the cyber crime-fighting community doubt this was just another money making scheme. Some think this was just to hurt Ukraine. But if that’s true, then it didn’t just hurt Ukraine. We also learn a Patya hit a US nuclear power plant. Patya also hit a US pharmacy firm and a French construction company.
So what are we going to do about it? At our Boston computer service shop, we haven’t seen the Patya ransomware attack yet. I hope we never do. But I’ve heard about this file called Perfc. When certain malware meets that file, Perfc tricks the virus and stops the encryption. That works with malware, but I don’t know it that will work with Petya. We can only hope. I understand some people and some institutions are still running Windows XP, and other defunct software. If that’s you, then stop! That’s an easy target. And if you do get eaten up, there’s nothing Microsoft can do about it. But what else can we do?
Jun 28, 2017 | News, Security
Remember the Wannacry virus last month? You should because it almost crippled Great Britain’s medical industry. It got IT services, too. ?But yesterday, something worse hit Europe. Worse than Wannacry: Super cyber attack hits globe.
Ukraine got the worst of it. The virus hit over countless computers. Banks failed. The ATM’s stopped working. Also, Ukraine government systems took a blow. So did Ukaraine’s major media stations, like ?Channel 24. In fact, cyber attackers broadcast messages like, “Nobody can recover your files without our decryption service”. Russian computers went down. For example, one Russian creditor can’t even process client operations. ? The hackers demand $300 in Bitcoin. That may not sound like much, but that’s over $770,000 in US dollars. And they want $770,000 per attack! So far, they only made 3.7 Bitcoin, or around $9,500. But the hackers just keep on hacking.
However, this attack is by no means limited to Russia and Ukraine. They hacked German businesses, like Deutsche Bank. Some of India’s ports couldn’t even function because of the cyber attack. In Australia, Quantas Airlines, their main airlines, their online booking system took a hit. ?In Tazmania, they had to shut a candy factory down. The US isn’t immune. In Pennsylvania, they had to cancel surgeries (sound familiar, England?). ?A US law firm also had to shut down. In fact, no continent went unscathed.
Some experts say this isn’t as bad as Wannacry, because this virus is more limited. I beg to differ. I think it’s worse than Wannacry. Here’s why. Some experts say the attackers didn’t really care if they got paid. That’s scary because they could have a far more sinister motive. And nobody in the world has any leads on who is behind this. For all we know, a rouge dictatorship (North Korea) or terrorist group (ISIS) could be doing this. I don’t know. So the fact nobody knows whose is doing this, and very few can seem to stop is is chilling. And look at the ramifications.All it took is a few hacks to stop governments, banks, hospitals, airlines, law firms. What if they get the power to stop whole world systems at once?
Jun 27, 2017 | News
The European Union isn’t the USA. They don’t play when it comes to stopping monopolies. They don’t even cut Google any slack. The European Union fines Google for billions.
So the EU fined Google 2.4 billion Euros. So that’s $2.7 billion dollars. They fined Google because they accused them of using their world dominance to get people to shop from their online store. Thus, this takes away from smaller online businesses. They have 90 days to pay, or face even more fines. This follows a 7-year-old investigation. This fine is the biggest fine the EU ever issued to any company.
The EU’s biggest beef is against Google Shopping. But due to this ruling, Google must change how it ranks websites. But Google may not be done yet. There is talk of an appeal. This may delay the fines and judgement for even more years. Keep in mind the investigation is already 7 years old. And this isn’t the only fine Google faces from the EU. The EU is also going after Google AdSense and Android. The EU reminds Google they can fine them up to 10% of it’s revenue per year. That adds to over 9 billion dollars a year. I don’t think Google is going to let that happen.
I can’t imagine other IT service industries, or other tech industries, are happy about that. Think of what mega conglomerates like Amazon and Walmart and Apple are doing. They’re taking over grocery stores and other aspects of life. This would never fly with the European Union. I don’t know what to say about European Union fines Google for billions. Part of me wants to believe they’re making it fair for all. If that’s the case, that is wonderful. We could use some of that here in America. But the cynic in me wonders are they doing this to block US companies from prospering in Europe. Mabye the EU is no better because they’re trying to throw their weight around. Who do you think is in the right?
