Split between six offices in California and Texas, LPA Design Studios is known for delivering thoughtful institutional buildings often on limited and inflexible budgets, among other impressive accolades. The firm is the recipient of the 2025 AIA Architecture Firm Award. Since 1965, LPA has cultivated a reputation for having a keen sensitivity to design research. This often translates to thoughtful, innovative, and sustainable designs. The office has its own wing, Sustainability + Applied Research (S+AR) team, dedicated to such affairs.Some projects that demonstrate the firms ethos and sustainability commitment include Environmental Nature Center and Preschool, the first Living Building Challenge Petal Certified building in southern California; and the CSU San Bernardino Center for Global Innovation, to name but a few.LPA has six offices spread throughout California and Texas. (Courtesy AIA)Equity and inclusivity are central to LPAs philosophy, AIA said in a statement. The firm has implemented initiatives like the Diversity in Design Scholarship and the Developing Future Project Leaders program to support underrepresented voices in the design industry. AIA continued: Additionally, LPA has reimagined traditional career paths to create opportunities for individuals from nontraditional educational backgrounds, exemplified by their Digital Design pathway. Internally, LPA fosters a culture of mentorship and shared leadership, with a majority of its principals and associates having started their careers at the firm.The jurors who chose LPA were the same bunch who bestowed upon Deborah Berke this years AIA Gold Medal. That panel was chaired by Anne Hicks Harney of Long Green Specs, a New Jersey practice. It included Kjell M. Anderson, Ung-Joo Scott Lee, Amy Slattery, Megumi Tamanaha, Roderic Walton, Korey White, and Taryn Williams.Last years AIA Architecture Firm Award went to Quinn Evans.

An open international architecture and urban design contest is being held to upgrade the central area of Zelene, Czechia (Deadline: 24 January)The two-stage competition organised by the Centre for Central European Architecture (CCEA MOBA) on behalf of the Municipality of Zelene will select a design team to redevelop a key site in the centre of the settlement which is located just 10km east of Prague.The 10 million (CZK 304 million) project will create a new municipal office, police station, health centre, retail and housing on a large disused site located next to the railway in the heart of Zelene.Contest site: Zelene, CzechiaAccording to the brief: The rapidly growing municipality on the outskirts of Prague currently lacks a commercial and administrative centre. However, it has a brownfield site near the train station that has the potential to meet this need.The goal of the competition is to create a high-quality and attractive space in the centre of Zelene that will provide facilities for services, social interaction, and gathering for residents and visitors alike.The design should include essential community amenities, such as a municipal office, office spaces, a municipal police station, a healthcare centre, residential units, and retail spaces. The newly developed area should become a central and representative place in the municipality.Founded in 1416, Zelene is a small settlement of around 3,200 residents located on the eastern edge of Prague. Local landmarks include a small chapel and statue of St John of Nepomuk but otherwise the town lacks any significant civic infrastructure.The latest contest comes just months after international competitions were announced for the 244 million upgrade of flood defences in Olomouc and to transform the disused Hotel Stroja in nearby Perov.Bjarke Ingels Group won an international contest organised by The City of Prague for a major new 204 million (CZK 6.1 billion) waterfront concert hall close to the Vltavsk metro station in May 2022.Benthem Crouwel Architects won an open international competition to redevelop one side of Pragues iconic Victory Square one year ago.Contest site: Zelene, CzechiaKey aims of the latest 6,650m project include creating a new commercial and administrative urban core and boosting civic infrastructure within the settlement. New intergenerational outdoor public spaces are also required as part of the development.Judges will include Vt ik, mayor of Zelene; Tereza Vojtkov, founder of Vojtek Architects; Jan Kalivoda; co-founder of Progres Architects; and David Hlouch of the Czech Chamber of Architects.The contest language is Czech and English. Submissions will be judged on architectural quality, urban design quality, sustainability and technical design.The competition features a 65,700 (CZK 2 million) prize fund and the overall winner will be invited to negotiate for a design contract to take the project forward.How to applyDeadline: 24 JanuaryCompetition funding source: Contracting authority (Zelene)Project funding source: Subsidies/grant and contracting authority (Zelene)Owner of site(s): Contracting authority (Zelene)Contact details: igor@cceamoba.czVisit the competition website for more information

The Strand Theater on Main Street in Rockland, Maine, is a great example of the inter-war theaters that sprouted up in towns all across the country following WWI. The theater was built in 1922-23, on the site of a building destroyed in a 1922 fire that swept through the southern part of Rocklands downtown. The steel-framed theater, with its terracotta tile walls and ornamental brick facade is fairly unadorned, besides the blade sign marquee reading STRAND. Two storefronts, a cigar store and a flower shop, were also incorporated into the theater, framing the entrance. The theater stayed open until the early 2000s when the local multiplex bought it and closed it. In February, 2004, the theatre was purchased by a long-time summer resident who restored the building and opened it back up. The Strand remains a vital economic and cultural center for the town, and its preservation is an important piece of Rocklands charming Main Street.

Highly commended: Marti Phillips, Are You Kidding. All images the photographers, courtesy of the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards, shared with permissionSilliness and Style Take Top Honors in the 2024 Comedy Wildlife Photography AwardsDecember 13, 2024NaturePhotographyKate MothesA red squirrel diving headlong into a tree snags the top award in the 2024 Nikon Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards (previously), snapped by Italian photographer Milko Marchetti. He has been sitting on this beauty of a shot for a couple of years now and decided that this year was the year to enter it, the organizers say. We are chuffed he did because this little red squirrel has only gone and won the whole competition!Additional category winners and highly commended images include a beady-eyed mafia boss by Takashi Kubo, a discombobulated eagle by Tapani Linnanmki, and a celebratory mantis by Jose Miguel Gallego Molina. Check out more finalists, including a few that won in their categories, and see the entire gallery on the contests website.Overall winner and Mammal Category winner: Milko Marchetti, Stuck SquirrelHighly commended: Takashi Kubo, Mafia BossPeoples Choice Award category winner: Tapani Linnanmki, Shake, ruffle, rattle, and rollHighly commended: Leslie Mcleod, Hide and SeekHighly commended: Andy Rouse, Alright mate, back off. This is my birdHighly commended: Arvind Mohandas, The Contemplative ChimpanzeeHighly commended: Sanjay Patil, The Rock StarHighly commended: Artur Stankiewicz, Im too sexy for my lovePrevious articleNext article

Published December 14, 2024 10:00am EST close 'FOX & Friends' spotlights made-in-America gift ideas perfect for the holiday season Worksport CEO Steven Rossi, A Rustic Feeling owner Mary Geitz and Metal Art of Wisconsin president Shane Henderson join 'FOX & Friends Weekend' to share their American-made products. Holiday decoration theft has become an increasingly frustrating issue for many homeowners. Karen from Los Angeles shared her experience with us in an email, stating,"We have criminals who visit our neighborhood to not only steal mail and packages but also holiday decorations. I made a Christmas decoration for our mailbox, which was promptly stolen."Were sorry to hear about the theft in your neighborhood. This highlights a problem that goes beyond mere property loss. It's a theft of holiday cheer and personal effort. Lets see how we can use technology to help secure your decorations. Outdoor decorations that were stolen. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Smart solutions for festive securityKaren also inquired about the effectiveness ofSamsung SmartTags, asking if these tags would work on her decorations and how far they could reach. The good news is that Samsung SmartTags can indeed be used on your holiday decorations. You can attach the SmartTag to any item you want to track. These devices are compatible with most recent Samsung Galaxy phones, including the Galaxy S9, making them accessible to many Android users.As for the distance, the range of theSamsung SmartTag uses Bluetooth to connect to your phone. If the item is within Bluetooth range, you can ring it to find it or use the "Search Nearby" feature to get directions to it. If the item is out of range, other Samsung devices near the tag will anonymously locate it for you and then let you know where it is. This is done in the background and is encrypted to ensure privacy. The SmartTag does not beep when its out of range.TheSamsung SmartTag is compatible with almost all Samsung Galaxy phones released recently. They must have 2GB of RAM and run Android 8.0 (Oreo) or higher. So, your Samsung Galaxy S9 phones should be compatible with the Samsung SmartTag. Outdoor Christmas decorations. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Apple AirTags: An alternative approachFor those considering a switch toApple, AirTags present another viable option. Karen asked if she would have problems tracking her decorations with an Apple AirTag. While primarily designed for iOS devices,you can use it with your Android phone as mentioned in our article here, with some limitations. It uses the Find My network, and if another Apple device passes by the AirTag, the Find My network will be notified of the lost items location.The AirTag does not beep when its out of range. However, the AirTags Precision Finding feature, which provides highly accurate tracking, is only compatible with iPhone 11 series and onwards. If youre considering purchasing an iPhone, the iPhone 11 would be a relatively inexpensive option that is compatible with the AirTags Precision Finding feature.WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)? Outdoor Christmas decorations. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Samsung SmartTags vs. Apple AirTagsBothSamsung SmartTags and Apple AirTags offer extensive tracking capabilities. The SmartTag uses Bluetooth for nearby tracking and relies on other Samsung devices for long-range location. Similarly,AirTags leverage the Find My network, utilizing nearby Apple devices to relay location information.For Samsung users like Karen, theSmartTag is the natural choice, working seamlessly with Galaxy devices. Those considering Apple might look at theAirTagas an option.Please note that while these tags can help you track your items, they might not prevent theft as they are not hidden devices and can be removed by someone who recognizes what they are. Outdoor Christmas decorations. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Additional tips for festive security1. Use motion-activated cameras: Installmotion-activated security cameras to monitor your decorations. Many security cameras send real-time notifications to your phone, allowing you to act quickly if someone tampers with your property.2. Secure decorations: Consider physically securing your decorations with zip ties, chains or locks. While this won't deter all thieves, it can make stealing more difficult and time-consuming.3. Light it up: Well-lit areas are less appealing to thieves. Ensure your yard and decorations are adequately lit withoutdoor lights, especially in dark corners or near entry points.4. Engage your neighbors: Create a sense of community by alerting neighbors to thefts and keeping an eye out for suspicious activity. A connected neighborhood can act as a strong deterrent.5. Mark your property: Use invisible ink or engrave your decorations with a unique identifier. If stolen items are recovered, this will help law enforcement return them to you.6. Report thefts to local law enforcement: Always report thefts, no matter how small. Law enforcement can track patterns and increase patrols in areas with frequent incidents. Providing details may also help them recover stolen items.GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE Outdoor Christmas decorations. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Kurt's key takeawaysIn her email, Karen expressed her frustration: "I know this seems minor... but its disheartening to see the things you spend time, money and a little love get stolen." The desire to protect holiday decorations goes beyond material value it's about safeguarding the joy and effort put into creating a festive atmosphere. As we embrace these technologies, let's also remember the importance of community vigilance and mutual respect.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPHave you ever used tracking devices, security cameras, or other gadgets to safeguard your decorations? What worked well, and what would you recommend to others? Let us know by writing us atCyberguy.com/ContactFor more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading toCyberguy.com/NewsletterFollow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt:Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com.All rights reserved. Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on "FOX & Friends." Got a tech question? Get Kurts free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Character.AI. (CFOTO/Future Publishing via Getty Images) Welcome to Fox News Artificial Intelligence newsletter with the latest AI technology advancements.IN TODAYS NEWSLETTER:- AI chatbot encouraged teen to kill his parents, lawsuit claims- Teen deepfake pornography victim warns future generation is 'at risk' if AI crime bill fails- Lisa Kudrow began to fear AI after seeing Tom Hanks movie Artificial intelligence is being used to power the personalization of popular sports betting apps to tailor experiences to users' preferences. (iStock / iStock)SUITS MOUNTING: Two Texas parents filed a lawsuit this week against the makers of Character.AI, claiming the artificial intelligence chatbot is a "clear and present danger to minors," with one plaintiff alleging it encouraged their teen to kill his parents.GENERATION AT RISK: Senate lawmakers unanimously passed the bipartisan-led Take It Down Act that would force social media companies to speedily remove sexually explicit deepfakes, prevent them from being posted and criminalize the act.'WHAT WILL BE LEFT?': Lisa Kudrow fears an uncertain future as artificial intelligence becomes more and more prevalent in Hollywood. Lisa Kudrow with an inset of a still from Tom Hanks and Robin Wright in Here (ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images; 2023 CTMG, Inc. All Rights Reserved.)FUTURISTIC ROBOCOP: Footage from the streets of China captured a scene straight from a science fiction novel spherical drones alongside patrolling law enforcement. Chinese company Logan Technology unveiled the RT-G, a spherical AI robot, aiding law enforcement with patrol. (Logan Technology)FOLLOW FOX NEWS ON SOCIAL MEDIASIGN UP FOR OUR OTHER NEWSLETTERSDOWNLOAD OUR APPSWATCH FOX NEWS ONLINEFox News GoSTREAM FOX NATIONFox NationStay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents now and for the future with Fox Newshere. This article was written by Fox News staff.

Corgarashu - stock.adobe.comNewsComputer Misuse Act reform gains traction in ParliamentAn amendment to the proposed Data (Access and Use) Bill that will right a 35 year-old wrong and protect security professionals from criminalisation is to be debated at WestminsterByAlex Scroxton,Security EditorPublished: 13 Dec 2024 13:49 Cross-party parliamentarians will next week debate proposals that aim to fix a glaring flaw in the Computer Misuse Act of 1990 (CMA) as momentum gathers behind the need to reform the nearly 35 year-old law.An amendment to the proposed Data (Access and Use) Bill, led by Conservative peer Lord Holmes and Liberal Democrat peer Lord Clement-Jones, that will override outdated aspects of the CMA that inadvertently criminalise good faith, legitimate security activities, will now be debated in Committee on Wednesday 18 December.Created largely in response to a famous incident in which professional hackers and technology journalists broke into British Telecoms Prestel system in the mid-80s, the CMA received Royal Assent in June 1990, barely two months after Tim Berners-Lee and CERN made the world wide web publicly available for the first time.Although it has been frequently amended over the years to reflect the changing world of technology, the CMA still vaguely defines the offence of unauthorised access to a computer, which opponents have long argued inadvertently criminalises cyber security threat researchers and incident responders and forces ethical hackers to work with one hand tied behind their back out of fear of prosecution.According to the CyberUp campaign, which has been pushing for reform for years, the CMA could be costing the UK economy up to 3.5bn.The UKs outdated cyber laws are preventing our cyber security professionals from defending organisations effectively, Rob Dartnall, SecAlliance CEO, Crest UK chair, and CyberUp representative, told Computer Weekly.In no other sector do security professionals face risks of breaking the law for simply doing their jobs. Campaign research shows that nearly two-thirds of cyber professionals say the CMA hinders their ability to safeguard the UK an untenable situation as cyber threats grow.Holmes and Clement-Jones amendment proposes a statutory defence for researchers who can demonstrate either a reasonable belief that the IT system owner would have consented to their work, or that the activity was strictly necessary for the detection of cyber crime.This will give British cyber pros similar protections to those already in force in other European countries such as Belgium, Germany, France, Malta and the Netherlands, all of which have either recently updated their legal frameworks to address professional hacking, or already had more appropriate legal regimes.Dartnall said that change was vital to fostering a safe environment for researchers and allowing them to play a more effective role in safeguarding digital systems and data in the UK a need urgently highlighted by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) in its recent Annual Review.We are delighted to see an amendment tabled that could bring the Computer Misuse Act into the 21st century by introducing a statutory defence. Updating this Act would represent a landmark moment for UK cyber security legislation, which is outdated when compared to the cyber threat landscape we face, he said.The last two years have seen unprecedented levels of critical vulnerabilities, ransomware breaches and third party system breaches, all of which have had a massive effect on peoples data privacy and the UKs economy.By introducing a statutory defence, the UK could protect legitimate cyber security professionals, strengthen its cyber defences, and reinforce its place as a cyber security leader. It is time we updated the law to fit with the digital age, added Dartnall. With support from across parliament, we believe this amendment could be a catalyst for a change that would better protect the country.Timeline: Computer Misuse Act reformJanuary 2020: Group of campaigners says the Computer Misuse Act 1990 risks criminalising cyber security professionals andneeds reforming.June 2020: The CyberUp coalition writes to Boris Johnson to urge him to reformthe UKs 30 year-old cyber crime laws.November 2020: CyberUp, a group of campaigners who want to reform the Computer Misuse Act, finds 80% of security professionals are concerned that they may be prosecutedjust for doing their jobs.May 2021: Home secretary Priti Patel announces plans to explore reforming the Computer Misuse Act as calls mount for the 31-year-old law to be updatedto reflect the changed online world.June 2022: A cross-party group in the House of Lords has proposed an amendment to the Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure Bill that would address concerns about security researchers or ethical hackers being prosecutedin the course of their work.August 2022: A study produced by the CyberUp Campaign reveals broad alignment among security professionals on questions around the Computer Misuse Act, which it hopes will give confidence to policymakersas they explore its reform.September 2022: The CyberUp coalition, a campaign to reform the Computer Misuse Act, has called on Liz Truss to push ahead with needed changes to protect cyber professionalsfrom potential prosecution.January 2023: Cyber accreditation association Crest International lends its support to the CyberUp Campaign forreform to the Computer Misuse Act 1990.February 2023: Westminster has opened a new consultation on proposed reforms to the Computer Misuse Act 1990, but campaigners who want the law changed to protect cyber professionalshave been left disappointed.March 2023: The deadline for submissions to the governments consultation on reform of the Computer Misuse Act is fast approaching, and cyber professionals need to make their voices heard,says Bugcrowds ethical hackers.November 2023: A group of activists who want to reform the UKs computer misuse laws to protect bona fide cyber professionals from prosecution have been left disappointed by a lack of legislative progress.July 2024: In the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill introduced in the Kings Speech, the UKs new government pledges to give regulators more teeth to ensure compliance with security best practiceand to mandate incident reporting.July 2024: The CyberUp Campaign for reform of the 1990 Computer Misuse Act launches an industry survey inviting cyber experts to share their views on how the outdated law hinders legitimate work.In The Current Issue:CIO interview: Steve OConnor, Aston MartinNCSC boss calls for sustained vigilance in an aggressive worldDownload Current IssueData engineering - FlowX.ai: Orchestrating data pipelines for vertical AI agents CW Developer NetworkLooking ahead at long, mid and short term IT plans Cliff Saran's Enterprise blogView All Blogs

June Wan/ZDNETZDNET's key takeawaysPrivate Internet Access (PIA) is among the least expensive premium VPN services, costing only $79 for a 3-year plan.The VPN offers open-source apps with flexible settings to customize your security. Aside from the extensive server network, you can also connect unlimited devices (it's one of the best options for smart TVs).PIA's headquarters in the US isn't ideal for privacy, and the app's many settings can be hard for a beginner to get the hang of.Private Internet Access (PIA) is a cost-friendly and reliable VPN service. Its servers are in all the US states, making it appropriate for geo-restrictions. The app is highly customizable for different user scenarios, depending on whether you want the best security or speed.There are even more praiseworthy things about PIA, which is also featured in our best VPNs list as the best open source VPN option. The VPN has some similarities with its rival IPVanish, for example, in supporting unlimited connections and being headquartered in the US (which isn't a good thing). However, its open-source apps and zero-logging policy add some level of trust. details View at PIA An extensive global server network like no otherPIA has over 25,000 servers, which is one of the largest networks any VPN offers. That also means it has many IP addresses to offer anywhere. The servers are spread in 91 countries and 140 locations worldwide.The cherry on top is you'll find servers to connect to in every US state. This comes in handy if you need to access IP-restricted services and content when traveling out of state. It's also easier to find a server with fast speeds in any location in the US. But PIA's server distribution is expansive, covering regions like South America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia-Pacific, and Africa.I was surprised to see servers in China and nearby territories like Hong Kong and Taiwan. Most VPNs do not offer servers in China due to the country's strict regulations. The servers in China are virtual, meaning they aren't physically stationed in the country but in a nearby location (and still offer a China IP address). PIA has these virtual servers in several other locations, including India and some US states. They work just like the regular servers and can be even faster.Some notable features of the servers that help to boost performance are:Speeds of up to 10Gbps. The servers are designed to handle connections up to 10Gbps, meaning they won't restrict bandwidth or speeds if you're subscribed to a fast internet service like Google Fiber or Xfinity.RAM-only technology. The servers do not store data on hard disks but instead use volatile RAM memory storage that is automatically wiped clean with every server reboot. This helps to improve user privacy because anyone who gains access to the servers won't find any information they can use to track you.Optimized for streaming. If accessing content with a VPN is your main intention, PIA has specialized servers that are convenient for streaming. Screenshot by Kennedy Otieno/ZDNETWhat's more, you can get an IP address that is exclusive to you (instead of the shared ones). The IPs are offered only in select countries and will cost you a little extra on top of your subscription. This gives you the freedom to use the same IP on all your devices or the ability to access IP-sensitive services (like online banking) without getting flagged for suspicious activity.Firsthand performance experience with PIASpeed testsWhile it's not the fastest VPN, PIA has excellent connections. With my baseline internet speed of 125Mbps, I would occasionally get nearly the same speeds while using the VPN. But save those details for next because I also experienced connection dips in many server locations.Using our VPN testing methodology, I measured PIA's impact on internet connections, taking readings speeds with and without the VPN. It's expected that internet speeds will be slower with a VPN (it happens with most, if not all, VPNs). The key reasons are that data has to be encrypted and decrypted on transit, and also the traffic routing between your location and the server location you've chosen.Starting with PIA servers closest to my location in South Africa, I had near perfect speeds; sometimes registering as small as 2% drop. I did the tests multiple times and averaged the readings during the day and evenings (to note any fluctuations during peak times). The VPN connections were faster on weekdays, with weekends registering slightly slower speeds (sometimes falling by as much as 15%). Here is a summary of how the nearby servers performed.Local tests (South Africa servers)Download speeds (without VPN)Average download speeds with PIAAverage loss1st round tests (day time)127Mbps122Mbps3.90%2nd round tests (peak usage evening hours)123Mbps113Mbps7.30%3rd round tests ( weekend)118Mbps105Mbps11%The biggest resilience test was when I connected to international servers. I registered speed losses of up to 45%. My peak interest was on US connections since that's where I stream the most content and even play online games. I wasn't disappointed because some locations had less than 15% connection drops, although I got up to 26% drops in locations to the west. Here is an outlook of speed test results in select locations across different continents.Server locations testedDownload speeds with PIA VPNSpeed drop (lower is better)New York101Mbps19.20%Washington DC113Mbps9.80%Oklahoma111Mbps11.20%Denver104Mbps16.80%California92Mbps26.40%Venezuela95Mbps24%Brazil86Mbps31.20%UK98Mbps21.60%France112Mbps10.40%Austria101Mbps19.20%Sweden95Mbps24%Singapore104Mbps16.8%%China100Mbps20%Japan68Mbps45.60%New Zealand79Mbps36.80%Australia72Mbps42.40%I got slower connections in countries in Europe, South America, and Asian regions. Notably, UK and Sweden server connections dropped by over 20%. But the worst of all were Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. I encountered over 40% slower internet speeds, though my connections were still within the range that can support 4K streaming.StreamingI managed to access many streaming platforms with PIA. Netflix is usually one of the most sensitive at detecting blocking VPNs, but most of the Netflix libraries I tested worked with PIA, including Japan (which has the most anime shows).But as I mentioned earlier, there are streaming-optimized servers. I would highly recommend using these for incident-free streaming online. An easy way to sort them is by typing "streaming" in the search bar above the server list. This will display all available dedicated streaming servers in different locations. While testing the servers, I was able to use streaming sites such as;HuluDisney+BBC iPlayerYouTube TVAmazon Prime VideoMaxTorrentingAll PIA servers support torrenting. To experience faster connections with torrenting, you should use the SOCKS5 proxy servers. They are optimized for speedy file-sharing but may be less secure because they don't encrypt traffic. Port forwarding is another convenient feature for torrenting. You can easily configure P2P clients like BitTorrent, qBittorrent, and uTorrent for safe and smooth downloads.GamingPIA is reliable for intensive online gaming, too. When I chose nearby servers, latency was always below 150ms (the maximum threshold for most fast-paced games). Lower latency is best for gaming because it signifies a faster signal response between your device and the servers, which helps minimize lag in online gaming. The PIA app shows latency on all servers, so you can select the most efficient ones for gaming anywhere. Plus, the VPN's encryption and IP-masking features help to avoid ISP-speed throttling and DDoS attacks that can negatively impact your gaming experience.PIA has a lot of built-in options to customize your security and privacyPIA is one among few VPNs with the option to choose encryption levels. Encryption is the process by which data is scrambled and secured with safe keys so that no one besides the authorized recipient can read it while in transit. When I installed the PIA app on my Windows laptop, it was set to AES128-bit encryption by default. This is relatively less powerful than the advanced AES 256-bit encryption, but it can be faster than the latter.But if you want the best protection in risky environments (like unsecured Wi-Fi networks where hacks may be common), you should switch to AES 256-bit encryption. However, the option to change encryptions is only available if you're using the OpenVPN protocol.Three secure protocols are offered, though WireGuard and OpenVPN (UDP and TCP) are the ones available on most devices. PIA also offers IPSec/IKEv2 protocol on iOS, which is designed to work optimally on mobile devices. Screenshot by Kennedy Otieno/ZDNETWhen using either WireGuard or OpenVPN protocols, there's an option to customize the data packets/MTU size for better connections. Choose "Small Packets" when on unreliable and slow internet connections to ensure only essential data is tunneled by the VPN, thus minimizing bandwidth usage. "Large Packets" can be used on fast connections because more data is transported simultaneously. Alternatively, you can leave the settings to "Auto" for the VPN to choose the best packet settings depending on your internet connection.Initially, I couldn't tell the difference between the two kill switch settings on the PIA app. Turns out that the first one (VPN Kill Switch) blocks access to the internet if the VPN connection drops accidentally. The other one (Advanced Kill Switch) stops your device from accessing the internet without VPN protection at all times, including when the app is turned off. Both of these settings help to prevent exposure of your IP address during connection failures. Screenshot by Kennedy Otieno/ZDNETIt's possible to automate how PIA should connect and secure your traffic on any network. You can set your trusted home networks, for example, to work even without VPN protection, while others are always secured.Split tunneling is another feature that helps customize your VPN connections. With this, you can opt to tunnel some apps on the VPN and leave out others. It can be useful when, for example, streaming international shows and using local services or apps concurrently. Screenshot by Kennedy Otieno/ZDNETBut that's not all. I found even more tools meant to boost user privacy, such as:Multi-hop and obfuscationYou can use PIA's multihop servers instead of the regular servers. To turn these on, go to the menu and navigate to "Multihop," then check the box next to "Multihop and obfuscation."Multihop servers add an extra layer of anonymity by rerouting your VPN-encrypted traffic on other private proxy servers. It's almost impossible for anyone to find or track your real IP address when traffic keeps bouncing on different servers and you're constantly getting assigned a new IP. Multihop servers can be useful when torrenting, though they may be slower. Screenshot by Kennedy Otieno/ZDNETAgain, the multihop servers (with Shadowsocks) can obfuscate your VPN traffic so that sites blocking VPN traffic won't even detect that you're one. If you're having problems accessing geo-restricted sites, simply turn on this setting to camouflage the VPN traffic.Private DNSPIA also provides leak protection by offering multiple ways to route DNS (domain name server) requests. You can use the VPN's DNS or customize it with your private DNS address. Both of these methods can greatly help deter third parties, including your internet service provider, from monitoring your online activities and searches. Screenshot by Kennedy Otieno/ZDNETPIA MACEMACE is another great addition to PIA's arsenal. It detects and stops potentially harmful ads from domains known for distributing malware. So while you might still see ads while browsing, a lot of filtering has already been done to ensure only safe and appropriate ads are served. It also blocks trackers that might be used to secretly collect information via apps installed on your device.Open-source appsPIA has published its source code, including on Github, for anyone to inspect. This increases transparency because app users and developers can check for loopholes and vulnerabilities in the software. But the fact that PIA has survived public scrutiny means it's solid. Many VPNs, including NordVPN and ExpressVPN, haven't publicized their codes, preferring to keep it a secret.US jurisdiction and an audited no-logs policySadly, the US (where PIA is based) isn't a privacy-friendly location for VPN providers. Like every other company, they're subject to data retention laws that require them to keep some of their customers' data for a period. Also, the US is a member of 5/9/14 Eyes Alliances, in which the participating members freely share intelligence, including information about their citizens.While all these are reasons to question PIA's ability to maintain user privacy, the provider has a zero-logging policy. It has made a commitment to not collect or store sensitive data from its customers. The policy has been audited by Deloitte Romania in an effort to verify its trustworthiness. PIA has also been subpoenaed, including by the FBI, to provide user logs as evidence in a court case, but nothing implicating was found (a sign that they mean what they say).The bottom line is that the provider is doing all it can to ensure no traces of your data can be found in its servers. However, the headquarters in the US remains a drawback, given that most VPN providers have chosen better locations to avoid issues.PIA's prices are among the most affordable in the marketThough rich in features, PIA's plans are only a fraction of what some top services charge. The extended plans (1 and 3 years) have the best value proposals. If you go all in with the 3-year plan subscription (plus 3 months free), it costs $79 (an equivalent of $2.03/month) while the 1-year subscription is $39 ($3.33/month). The 1-month plan, however, isn't as enticing because it costs $11.95. Thankfully, all the subscriptions are backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to claim a refund if you aren't satisfied with the service.A free 500GB cloud storage offer also includes longer plans (1 and 3 years). However, it's only for one year and will be offered again the next time you renew your subscription. You can also bundle up your subscription with complementary services like an antivirus and a dedicated IP address, both costing you a little extra. PIA supports different modes of payment including bank cards, PayPal, and cryptocurrency.One subscription for all your devices (see the compatible devices and user experience) Screenshot by Kennedy Otieno/ZDNETAnother advantage of PIA is that you can connect all your devices with one account, joining only the likes of IPVanish and Surfshark in supporting unlimited simultaneous connections. It's a great option for multiple users like in a family or hostel shared with friends.Plus, you can use PIA on most, if not all, popular devices. It offers easy-to-install native apps, including a GUI (graphical user interface) app for Linux. That means you don't need to use command lines to switch servers or change settings on Linux. The VPN supports direct installs on various smart TVs, including Apple TV, Android TV, and Amazon Fire TV.If your device doesn't allow direct VPN installation, for example, LG and Samsung TV, you can configure the IP address manually using PIA's smart DNS. This enables you to access geo-restricted content on your device, though without protection. Also, connecting your device to a Wi-Fi network or shared hotspot secured with PIA provides the full benefits of a VPN, including data encryption.The list of devices where you can use PIA include;Smartphones: Android and iOSPCs: Mac, Windows, LinuxSmart TVs and media boxes (including Fire TV stick and Chromecast)Consoles: Nintendo Switch, Xbox, Playstation, MetaQuest, Amazon LunaRoutersChrome and Firefox browsersI easily set up the VPN on my Windows, Android, and iPad devices. However, navigating the app isn't as straightforward. Newbies, for example, may have problems locating the settings (click the 3 dots at the right top/left). Also, there are many settings on the app that might leave you clueless about what to do. However, the default settings are optimal so you don't need to change anything for the app to work properly (unless you know exactly what you're doing).Something I liked about the interface is how server locations are arranged on the app, starting from the best-performing ones with low latency. You can also favorite specific servers for easy access later. It's also possible to add or rearrange icons on the app by dragging and dropping the tools wherever you need them for convenience.ZDNET's buying advicePrivate Internet Access checks all the boxes of a good VPN service. It appeals to users with varying priorities, including security, privacy, bypassing geo-restrictions, or high bandwidth browsing. You're better off with the longer subscription plans because they provide more value for cheap, otherwise the monthly price range is within what other providers charge.The VPN is good for multi-connections, that is if you don't want to secure all your devices without an extra subscription. There are downsides too, but mostly not significant enough to hinder the proper functioning of the software.Private Internet Access FAQs Is PIA antivirus worth it?The antivirus PIA offers can significantly boost your device's security. It's worth it given the low price and the range of functions it can perform, including scanning your computer for malware and isolating malicious and risky files. The antivirus can also detect missing patches and fixes that could expose your Windows system to cyberattacks. However, the antivirus may not be as robust as a standalone antivirus software. If you need full PC and phone protection from offline threats, you should find the best antivirus software to do the job.Can PIA block YouTube ads?PIA MACE ad-blocker isn't effective at blocking ads on YouTube. It's primarily designed to block ads from domains or websites using aggressive advertising tactics, like aggressive tracking or showing adulterated ads. I still encountered ads on YouTube even with the MACE feature turned on, including infeed and in-video ads. You should get an ad-blocker specifically tailored for YouTube ads if you don't want to see ads while using the platform.What should I do if PIA won't connect?If PIA is not working, you can try several things. Start with the very basic ones, like checking the internet connection, updating the app, and ascertaining that it's not a firewall (like antivirus or Microsoft Defender) that's blocking the software. Also, try connecting to a different server because specific servers might be experiencing downtime issues.VPNs, including PIA, may also not work properly in some countries, like Russia and China. Using servers in a nearby location can sometimes fix the problem. If you're in a region that restricts VPN use, it's recommended that you turn on the PIA app's Multihop and Shadowsocks features.Another thing you can try is switching to a different protocol (WireGuard or OpenVPN, depending on which one you're currently using). If changing the settings doesn't produce any results, try reinstalling the app. If all else fails, contact customer support for assistance.Which Linux distributions can work with PIA?You can install PIA on Linux distros such as Ubuntu, Debian, Mint, Fedora, and Arch. The VPN offers a native app for Linux that allows you to instantly connect to servers without any complications. You can also do a manual Linux setup, including via command line terminal and using a network manager app. Show more Featured reviews

BitdefenderZDNET's key takeawaysBitdefender Total Security bundles antivirus and anti-malware with other digital privacy tools for $109.99 per year for individuals and $139.99 per year for a family of up to five, though Bitdefender often runs promotions on its annual plans. (At the time of writing, subscriptions were discounted to $49.99 and $69.99, respectively.)Bitdefender offers solid protection against threats across platforms through a collection of clean, user-friendly apps and extensions.Bitdefender is significantly more robust on Windows than on MacOS, and the included VPN is too limited for most users on desktop.A good antivirus and anti-malware solution can supplement your device's privacy and security features to fight against evolving digital threats, including ransomware and phishing. Bitdefender Total Security offers multiple layers of protection and prevention across platforms within user-friendly apps and browser extensions.Bitdefender offers a 30-day free trial of its Total Security suite -- all you need to do is create an account and download and install the software on your computer or phone. If you don't purchase or activate a subscription before your trial expires, your protection will end, as Bitdefender doesn't require a credit card upfront. Bitdefender Total Security for individuals allows access on up to five devices (Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS), so you can try before you buy on both desktop and mobile. details View at Bitdefender Like many antivirus programs, Bitdefender for Windows has the most features: anti-spam filtering, a privacy firewall, and Wi-Fi security assessments, to name a few. Because I tested Bitdefender Total Security on MacOS, I was not able to try all of the full suite available to Windows users.Bitdefender is currently our top pick for the best antivirus software overall.Installation and setup processYou can install Bitdefender when you first sign up for your trial or access your subscription and downloads later by logging into your Bitdefender Central account. Follow the prompts to add the software to your machine. You'll need to adjust Bitdefender's permissions in your system settings, which the setup wizard will guide you through. Bitdefender can also generate a QR code or download links to send via email or text to other devices -- remember, you can have Bitdefender Total Security on up to five at a time -- so you can add the Bitdefender Mobile Security app on Android or iOS. You'll need to log in using your Bitdefender Central credentials. Screenshot by Emily Long/ZDNETOnce you have the app up and running, you can also add the Bitdefender Traffic Light extension, which protects against phishing attempts and malicious web content, and the Bitdefender Anti-tracker extension, to your browser.If you want to utilize Bitdefender's VPN service -- which is powered by Hotspot Shield and comes with your subscription -- you'll have to download a separate app and enable the appropriate access in your system settings.Finally, you can add the Bitdefender Password Manager browser extension, log in with your Bitdefender credentials, and set up a master password to access your vault. Bitdefender allows imports from a handful of other common password management tools like Bitwarden, 1Password, and LastPass, or you can add individual items for new or existing accounts, identities, or credit cards.Password management on mobile requires a separate app (Bitdefender Password Manager), and the VPN will soon be fully migrated to the standalone Bitdefender VPN app. You can also download Bitdefender Central to access your dashboard and manage your subscription. Bitdefender basicsThe Bitdefender desktop app on MacOS allows you to manually scan your whole system, do a "quick" scan on critical areas, or select specific files or folders for a custom scan. (There is no option to set up scheduled scans.) Bitdefender Shield is the real-time version of scanning on Mac -- if enabled, it will scan apps, updates, and new and modified files for threats. Bitdefender can disinfect or quarantine suspicious or infected items, which you can view under Protection > Antivirus in the app. Scan logs and results can be found on the Notifications tab.Bitdefender for Windows has a number of settings -- including gaming, movie, and work modes -- to reduce the app's drag on your machine and optimize battery life. On MacOS, you can't adjust settings for scan speeds or performance. A full scan required 90 minutes on my machine, while a quick scan took around 40 minutes. I didn't notice any impact on my system during either.All of Bitdefender's apps have a clean design and are easy to navigate. However, I found having multiple apps on desktop and mobile along with three separate browser extensions to be clunky. Screenshot by Emily Long/ZDNETUnique features (and how well they work)Bitdefender Total Security includes VPN protection for 200 MB of traffic per device, per day. For most users, 200 MB doesn't go very far, so this is a chance for Bitdefender to upsell you to its Premium or Ultimate plans with unlimited VPN traffic (priced at $129.99 and $159.99, respectively, when not discounted). Within the VPN app, you can enable ad blocking and anti-tracking, adjust auto-connect settings, and activate a kill switch, which will shut down all traffic if the VPN connection is lost. Screenshot by Emily Long/ZDNETOn MacOS, Bitdefender protects against ransomware by preventing unknown programs from accessing, making changes to, or deleting important files. The app automatically selects potentially sensitive folders and file paths, but you can remove or add others as well as see any applications that try to gain access. Time Machine protection does the same for backups of your device.The TrafficLight browser extension catches threats like phishing and malware by showing you which links in your search results are safe or suspicious and alerting you if you've clicked on something dangerous. Separately, Bitdefender Anti-tracker identifies and blocks ad trackers, site analytics trackers, third-party cookies, etc., as you browse, which also decreases page loading times. You can also disable blocking for specific sites. Both extensions are free and work independently from a Bitdefender subscription. Screenshot by Emily Long/ZDNETMobile protection on iOS includes anti-phishing protection for web browsing and calendar event links, security scans of your device, SMS filtering, and data breach monitoring for your email address. On Android, you get additional security features like an app lock and anti-theft to remotely lock or wipe your device.ZDNET's buying adviceAs we've noted before, you don't necessarily need to pay for antivirus software: your device already has built-in protection, and there are a number of free third-party tools. Bitdefender is actually one of our picks for the best free antivirus, with basic scanning and live customer support available at no cost. The $109.99 annual subscription for Bitdefender Total Security is likely to provide more value to Windows users than those on MacOS thanks to a more robust set of features, a wider range of protection, and more granular performance settings, so if you are looking for a paid antivirus option, Bitdefender is a solid choice.Having a bundled password manager, VPN, and data breach detection may be attractive to some users -- but Bitdefender's versions of these tools are more limited than specific VPN and password management services (many of which are available at little or no cost) and shouldn't be the primary reason to pay a premium for antivirus.Finally, at first glance, it's hard to determine the difference between the cheaper Bitdefender Antivirus Plus and Bitdefender Total Security other than password management and the ability to protect up to five devices (compared to one or three depending on the tier you choose). There are a handful of additional features for Windows users, such as parental controls, a privacy firewall, and cryptomining protection. On MacOS, though, the upcharge for Total Security doesn't get you much over Antivirus for Mac.Featured reviews

Updated Dec. 14 with more in-depth interview information with Tim Cook and hosting King Charles III in Apples Battersea HQ.Apple CEO Tim Cooks latest visit to London, on Wednesday, Dec. 11, was an opportunity to emphasize the companys commitment to London and the U.K. Apples investment in the U.K. has been over $22 billion or 18 billion in the last five years, the company says. Cook was here as part of a bigger visit which culminated on Thursday, Dec. 12, in welcoming King Charles III to Apples Battersea HQ. When I was there, I saw Cook beaming and the king relaxed and engaged. In both parts of the trip, Cooks considered positivity was on display.Tim Cook.Getty ImagesNot least, he waxed positive about the country he was in, the U.K. There are 40 or so stores in the U.K., more than any other country in Europe, and the Battersea building is spectacular: airy, spacious and inspiringthe perfect workplace.The first time I speak to him coincides with the day of release of iOS 18.2, with the second tranche of Apple Intelligence features. Except that for the U.K. and four other English-speaking countries, it is the first taste of all the new Apple Intelligence features.MORE FOR YOUYoure getting everything at once, Cook reminds me. Im always thrilled to be in the U.K., but Im especially thrilled to be here on this day. Its very special. And he is a fan of London, commenting how great the city looks at Christmas (if tactfully failing to mention that its in the middle of an especially sharp cold snap).He praised Londons capabilities as a city to play a role in the growth of AI, commenting on how the company has doubled its engineer population in the last few years, with many of them working on Apple Intelligence. He said he saw London as a great hub for artificial intelligence.Apple was there to serve creativity, he told young people at Caius House, a youth center near Apples Battersea building, saying, were all creative at the end of the day.When the king was in Apples HQ, I was close enough to hear his questions about Apple Intelligence as it was demonstrated to him. He was courteous and friendly, and seemed impressed by the way Image Wand could turn a doodle into an accomplished artwork.While he talked to young people at Caius House, a youth center near Apples London HQ in Battersea, he was candid and open about his life and Apples latest features. Delrita Agyapong, CEO of Caius House told me how valuable Apple was to them. We work with young people in Battersea, giving them support with improving their digital skills and helping them to reach their potential. Its great to have Apple in the local community and, with their support, weve been able to give young people the opportunity to work with the latest technology and learn from experts about how to put theory into practice, she said.And in terms of experts, its hard to imagine someone better qualified than Cookand the reaction when the Caius House surprise visitor was revealed to be Cook was palpable excitement.Ive seen Cook work the room like this before. He can take the OMG, its him! energy and use it to get to know people, putting them at their ease not least because of his effortlessly genuine interest.Cook is a natural optimist, telling me how pleased he was to be back in London and how the city did Christmas so well. He answers an attendees question about how difficult it will be to get a job in the industry with comforting words, saying that these things go in cycles, suggesting that if it isnt great now, it will be again. I wouldnt worry too much about that, he says, reassuringly.I ask Cook what it meant to him to be at events like these. It means something to be able to give back, he says, and to connect with kids that are going to run the companies and businesses and governments in the future, and see what's on their mind, to see what their dreams and aspirations are. It keeps me connected to youth, which is so important both from a personal point of view, but also from a business point of view.Asked by the group about how he started out, he talks about his interest in computing, which spiked when he realized that it had great potential for helping people, connecting them. The spark came when he was at college, not high school. Find what it is that youre most curious about, and dont worry if you dont get that lightbulb moment immediately, he tells the room populated mostly by teenagers. Just keep pulling on that string.Cook listens attentively while Taiwo Omisore, an app developer, talks about how his first apps came about and how he was inspired as a kid when playing Super Mario Bros. on the Nintendo Entertainment System. I was obsessed with why, when I pressed the button to the left, Mario leapt in that direction, he says. After studying Computer Science at university he was working for the British supermarket Tesco and developing apps in his spare time. When I built my first app, I had a long commute so Id approach random people to get their thoughts, and they were very kind and gave really good feedback. He has recently released 10 Games: Daily Brain Training, with puzzles and sudoku elements.His advice to the listeners was supportive and clear: I think you really need to take a moment to take a moment and write down what it is you want to do. Do you want to create an app? Or a website? Do you want to create a tool thats going to make things better for people? Just do that. You can read every single tutorial in the world but at the end of the day what you need to do is just put something out there. When I talk to people, the thing that really accelerates their self-development is just by releasing things. Just take a step back, and just go forever.Succeeding in business is another question and Cook has plenty of tips. Dont look in the rear-view mirror, always be looking forward instead of congratulating yourself on what youve achieved, surround yourself by a strong team of people and so on.He talks about how he started out at Apple, saying that in 1997, the company, and it may be hard for you to believe this, was thought to be on the verge of bankruptcy. He goes on that Michael Dell, the CEO of Dell Computers, said that the best thing would be for Apple to be shuttered and the money given back to the shareholders. And the only difference between Michael Dell and the rest of the industry was that he said it while everyone else was thinking it.None the less, he joined Apple because, There was something about the twinkle in Steve Jobs eye, the way he was turning left while everyone else was turning right, that appealed to him.Asked about Apple Intelligence and where it would lead, Cook says, We're actually releasing iOS 18.2 today, and I would encourage you to get 18.2 in a hurry. It has many different parts of Apple Intelligence, from the ability to clean up a photo to writing tools to ChatGPT integration. Theres a ton of features in it but the elegance of it is that it's integrated into the apps that you use every day. And the elegance of it is also that it's private. It's very unusual in that we've kept the processing either on-device or in a private cloud. In the future, you'll see more features being added and it will just keep getting better and better. Artificial intelligence is a horizontal technology in that it will touch everything in your life over time. It will change everything. because it will be like having an assistant, to prepare things that it would have taken you longer to do, to free you up to spend more time, pulling that string of curiosity or creating or following your passion.One of the developers he met talked about the need to always be iterating. I ask Cook if that rings true for Apple, as well. Yes, its the incredible, relentless drive that nothing is ever perfect. That there are always improvements to be made. And theres the importance of being willing to view peoples feedback as jewels and continuing to make your craft better and better over time.As Cook met with app developers today, I wonder if the App Store is part of Apples focus on democratization. Even before I worked there, Apple's always been about democratization. The aim of putting a personal computer in every classroom. that doesn't sound too ambitious, in 2024, but it was ambitious at the time, he says.Then getting a personal computer for everyone, and then a smartphone in every pocket, the ability for everyone to be a photographer, to film a movie and then edit it. These things used to cost hundreds of thousands of pounds or more, and now all of a sudden you can put them in your pocket, he says.Cook has more examples of this, saying, The ability to create music with Logic Pro or Garageband, all of these things are about providing tools for creative people to express themselves. In the same way, with the app development, it's about giving developers tools and freeing them up from doing some of the heavy lifting of programming and the frameworks and APIs and so forth, enabling them to focus on their passion, you know, whether it's fitness or gaming or whatever it may be.And he references a new feature that takes democratization in a new direction. The latest example, perhaps is the Hearing Test. There are a billion and a half people with hearing problems in the world, and now we can democratize the hearing test, because very few people get one. It's always about democratizing for us.That feature has just gone live on AirPods Pro 2, alongside iOS 18.2. So I ask Cook what Apple Intelligence means to him and to Apple.I think it means a whole new era for iPhone, because the difference with Apple Intelligence versus a usual feature is Apple Intelligence touches everything. It touches every application that you use so much of. It touches Notes, Mail, it touches Messaging. These apps that you live in today, it touches all of those, and so the integration is deep and very different than having to think, oh, I want to use Apple Intelligence, let me go to this special place. It's in the places that you are already in. It starts a level of innovation that's on a different trajectory for the future. I think it's foundational and huge.