Prakhar Khanna/ZDNETThe Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is just a day away from its official launch, but Honor is jumping into the ring early to challenge Samsung with its Magic 7 Pro. I've been daily-driving the flagship phone and it's packed to the brim with features, making it a serious competitor.Also: 4 surprise products we could see at Samsung Unpacked 2025 - and are worth getting excited aboutWith a refined design, a 200MP periscope telephoto camera, Snapdragon 8 Elite performance, and a silicon-carbon battery, the Honor Magic 7 Pro positions itself as a formidable alternative to the upcoming Galaxy S25 Ultra. Here's how the Honor stacks up to the current Galaxy S24 Ultra, and what more Samsung will need to deliver this week to surpass them both.1. A mighty camera system Prakhar Khanna/ZDNETThe Honor Magic 7 Pro features a 200MP periscope telephoto camera with an f/2.6 aperture and a 1/1.4-inch sensor, which is larger than both telephoto cameras on the current Galaxy S24 Ultra. I appreciate the larger sensor especially, which provides more natural bokeh and finer details in shots. That's accompanied by a 50MP Super Dynamic Falcon main camera and a 50MP ultra-wide lens.I recently took a trip the Slovenia, with the Magic 7 Pro in hand, and the results I got from the cameras were impressive. 3x zoom (left) and Ultrawide shot (right) Prakhar Khanna/ZDNETThe 3x zoom captures a sufficient amount of detail, as evident in the photo above. See the dog's face, for example, which is sharp on both sides, with sunlight making her right eye pop while retaining details in the shadowed areas.Also: What to expect from Samsung Unpacked 2025: Galaxy S25 Ultra, AI features, and moreI've been just as satisfied with the ultra-wide-angle camera as it's produced equally superb results with accurate white balance and tone. The second shot was captured against the sun on the ultra-wide camera and it demonstrates the excellent dynamic range of the sensor, with vivid yet natural colors. 6x zoom shots Prakhar Khanna/ZDNETThe phone's 6x lossless zoom also performs brilliantly, maintaining clarity and detail. In comparison, when I used the Galaxy S24 Ultra earlier this year, it couldn't capture as much detail. The colors remain consistent across lenses and it's better than Samsung at capturing fast-moving subjects.While the Honor Magic 7 Pro's camera system is better than the Galaxy S24 Ultra's, it does have some occasional inconsistencies. For example, it tends to overexpose shots in direct sunlight. Portrait shots clicked on the Honor Magic 7 Pro Prakhar Khanna/ZDNETOne unique image feature with the Magic 7 Pro is the Harcourt profiles in Portrait mode, which come in three flavors: Vibrant, Colour, and Classic. Each has a distinct feel, but all deliver detailed shots with accurate edge detection.Also:The best Android phones to buy in 2025Naturally, there's a new AI toggle in Portrait mode that optimizes details in your portraits. I found the feature to work well occasionally. Fortunately, you can compare the AI-enhanced shot with the raw shot side-by-side before saving one.2. A media powerhouse that lasts all day Prakhar Khanna/ZDNETThe Honor Magic 7 Pro features a 6.8-inch AMOLED display with 5,000 nits of peak brightness for supported HDR content and a 120Hz dynamic refresh rate. The vibrant colors and excellent contrast make it a treat for content consumption. It certainly helps that the screen is now less curved, reducing glare on the sides.That said, the Galaxy S24 Ultra's anti-reflective Corning Gorilla Armor -- a feature likely to appear on the S25 Ultra -- offers a better visual experience. The reduction in reflections is a big win. However, Honor's 4320Hz PWM dimming makes its display less burdening on the eyes. A high PWM dimming rate means the display flickers faster, causing less eye strain than Samsung's slower alternative.Also: I held the world's thinnest foldable phone, and it made my iPhone 16 Pro Max feel outdatedPowering the Honor Magic 7 Pro is the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, paired with 12GB RAM and 512GB storage. From my testing, the device handles demanding tasks like heavy gaming without any issues, and the stereo speakers sound great. In day-to-day use, it's hard to find faults in the performance, seriously.The phone, with its 5,270mAh silicon-carbon cell, easily lasts a full day on a single charge, even under heavy use. That's compared to Samsung's 5,000mAh lithium-ion battery. You also get 100W fast charging (charger sold separately) and 80W wireless charging with a proprietary charger. I'd take those numbers over Samsung's 45W wired charging any day of the week.3. Samsung still has one big advantage Prakhar Khanna/ZDNETThe Honor Magic 7 Pro runs MagicOS 9.0 based on Android 15, and while I like some parts of it, it's simply not as polished as Samsung's OneUI.One positive includes home screen folders that can be expanded into a column or row view while remaining inside a box, offering better usability than traditional folders. You can directly access apps without needing to tap the folder and expand it -- or pull up an app drawer.Also: I'd ditch my Pixel 9 Pro for the next Nothing phone, so long as it prioritizes these featuresAnother standout feature is Honor's Magic Portal, which lets you transfer text, links, or images between apps seamlessly. It's easier to access now, as all you need to do is circle anything on-screen with your knuckle to pull up actionable tasks.Despite these software tricks, though, there are some longstanding bugs that I've noticed over the years. For instance, switching from a standard home screen with installed apps to an app drawer resets your widget and app placements.Bottom lineThe Honor Magic 7 Pro is relatively expensive at 1,300 euros in Europe, which translates to roughly $1,340 in the US. (Keep in mind that these conversions are almost always inaccurate of what actual market prices would look like.) Going by the European pricing, the Honor phone is still more affordable than the Galaxy S24 Ultra (launched at 1,450 euros) and I expect it to remain that way when the Galaxy S25 Ultra launches tomorrow.The big takeaway from testing the Honor Magic 7 Pro is that while Samsung has the software going for itself, it'll need to adopt better camera hardware and silicon-carbon battery tech to compete with flagship phones in 2025.Samsung Unpacked

We might not get Samsung's second-generation smart ring at its Unpacked event tomorrow, despite rumors that it's coming. Here's why.

Nina Raemont/ZDNETWhat's the deal?Training for a marathon in 2025? The Nothing Ear Openis on sale for $60 less than its asking price of $189. That means you can get these impeccable open earbuds that I've run many miles in for $129 right now.ZDNET's key takeawaysThe Nothing Ear Openis the design-forward brand's first open earbuds, available now for a discounted $129 on Amazon.They feel amazing to exercise with thanks to their comfortable build and wonderfully loud sound, but they also would work well as an alternative to noise-canceling earbuds.My only gripe is that the Multipoint Bluetooth didn't always work.Earbuds work best when you forget that they exist, even as they are in your ears or wrapped around your head. In actuality, a good earbud is a conduit for something else, like a good workout with bone conduction headphones or a locked-in eight hours of uninterrupted work at your chatter-filled desk job with noise-canceling earbuds.So when I was sent theNothing Ear Open earbuds, the latest from one of my favorite design-forward tech companies, I was eager to see just how much of a difference the headset would make on my afternoon runs and walks. The short answer? The Nothing Ear Open earbuds are a runner's new best friend and exceed its price tag. For the long answer, keep reading. details View at Amazon This is Nothing's first pair of open-ear headphones, which are designed less for noise cancellation and quiet listening and more for situational awareness and people on the go. If you don't like how noise-canceling earbuds build up pressure within your ear and take you out of your environment, open earbuds may be a better choice.First and foremost, open earbuds are great for exercise, but the best open earbuds work in many situations if they have loud enough sound and a comfortable build.Also: Forget the Pixel 8a: Nothing's $399 Android phone may be your best budget optionThe Nothing Ear Open check both boxes. Let's start with comfort, an essential factor of open earbuds. These are the lightest and most comfortable open earbuds I've tried, and much of this is credited to the flexible and lightweight ear hooks, which are wrapped in a sticky silicone. The earbuds hang from your ears in an unnoticeable way that bodes well for all-day wear.The speaker is positioned right above your ear without fully covering it, which keeps it open for sounds nearby to come through. There is absolutely nothing uncomfortable about these, especially on my runs or during my mat workouts when they stay around my ears and deliver pleasant sounds. Nina Raemont/ZDNETThese earbuds get miraculously loud while also keeping situational awareness at the forefront. You can turn your volume halfway up and hear everything clearly while running on a busy street or exercising at a packed gym. The highest possible volume is too loud for me when listening in a silent room, but is fine while I'm out running in a busy street.You might think that because these don't fully seal into your ears, the Nothing Ear Open produces lots of sound leakage. On the contrary: at mid-range volume, the volume that most people will listen to these earbuds on, my roommate couldn't hear my music. A foot apart from him and on high volume, however, he began to hear the music. This is thanks to Nothing's Sound Seal tech, which minimizes leakage through its directional speakers.Also: Best headphones for working outThe soundstage is wide, clear, and crisp on the earbuds, and the earbuds offer a detailed, bass-forward listen. Turning up the volume all the way promises an immersive experience while also maintaining environmental awareness. As I type this article, the earbuds' volume is maxed out, but I can still hear the clicks and clacks of my keyboard.I have had no issue with the earbuds' eight-hour battery life nor the 30 hours of battery stored in the case. They've powered me through a few days of desk work and park runs without any battery light going off. Multipoint Bluetooth also works well (most of the time), and the connection, like for the rest of the Nothing earbuds I've tried, is a breeze.ZDNET's buying adviceIn truth, I can't think of one bad thing about the Nothing Ear Open, especially considering the $129 price point. The quality of these open earbuds exceeds the asking price by a couple of miles. I'd recommend these to active people who are in the market for an aware earbud to power them through long-haul workouts and stay comfortable in the ear for the whole day.I think people outside that demographic would also like wearing these on walks, on calls (that, by the way, deliver clear audio), and to pass the day with music and podcasts in the office, where you may not want to be fully separated from the work chatter around you. You can have conversations, clearly hear what's happening around you, and listen to your favorite songs.

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Whether you're looking to upgrade your home theater setup with a high-end OLED screen or pick up a budget-friendly TV for your bedroom, there are tons of high-quality options to choose from. The best TVs you can buy right now offer a great balance between features, screen size, connectivity, and, of course, price.Also: The best Samsung TVsBig brands like Samsung and Sony offer premium models with features like object-tracking sound, OLED panels, and cloud gaming support. And smaller brands like Hisense and TCL offer more mid-range and budget-friendly options that still provide core features like 4K resolution and HDR support to give them great value for the money.What is the best TV right now?At ZDNET, we've extensively tested TVs from Samsung, Sony, TCL, and more. Our choice for the best TV overall is the Samsung S95D for its object-tracking sound, excellent picture quality, and integrated security chip. You can keep reading below to find out more about the Samsung S95D, as well as my other top picks for the best TVs you can buy.Also:The best sound systems you can buy Sort by All Picture quality Usability Design Value Brightness The best TVs of 2025 Show less The Samsung S95D is the brand's latest iteration of its OLED lineup, and it offers plenty of reasons to upgrade. Along with signature OLED picture quality, you'll get a base refresh rate of 120Hz that can be bumped up to 144Hz for gaming or smoother action during fast-paced movies, shows, or sports broadcasts. It works with both Dolby Atmos and Samsung's object-tracking sound technology to create 3D virtual surround sound without the need for extra speakers or sound bars.Read more: Samsung's S95D OLED is the best TV of CES 2024 and the best in the world right nowYou'll also get built-in voice controls via Alexa, Samsung's Bixby, and Hey Google for hands-free use of your TV. ZDNET's editor-in-chief, Jason Hiner, got to check out the Samsung S95D for himself at CES 2024, and he not only named it the best TV of CES, but the "best in the world right now." He was very impressed by the anti-glare coating of the screen, which helps boost visibility in brighter rooms. He also praised the color accuracy and crisp text the QD-OLED panel can produce. Verified reviews from Amazon, Best Buy, and Samsung's own site agree that the picture quality is some of the best on the market and highlight that the TV's quality is well worth the price.Samsung S95D specs: Screen size: 55-77 inches |Panel type: OLED |Refresh rate: Up to 144Hz |Resolution: 4K |HDR: OLED HDR Pro |Audio: Dolby Atmos, Object Tracking Sound+ |Voice controls: Alexa, Bixby, Hey Google Picture quality 9 Usability 9 Design 7 Value 8 Brightness 9 Pros Up to 144Hz refresh rate Dolby Atmos and Object Tracking Sound+ Anti-glare screen coating Cons Expensive at larger screen sizes No Dolby Vision support Samsung S95D Best TV overall 4.2 / 5 Score The Samsung S95D is the brand's latest iteration of its OLED lineup, and it offers plenty of reasons to upgrade. Along with signature OLED picture quality, you'll get a base refresh rate of 120Hz that can be bumped up to 144Hz for gaming or smoother action during fast-paced movies, shows, or sports broadcasts. It works with both Dolby Atmos and Samsung's object-tracking sound technology to create 3D virtual surround sound without the need for extra speakers or sound bars.Read more: Samsung's S95D OLED is the best TV of CES 2024 and the best in the world right nowYou'll also get built-in voice controls via Alexa, Samsung's Bixby, and Hey Google for hands-free use of your TV. ZDNET's editor-in-chief, Jason Hiner, got to check out the Samsung S95D for himself at CES 2024, and he not only named it the best TV of CES, but the "best in the world right now." He was very impressed by the anti-glare coating of the screen, which helps boost visibility in brighter rooms. He also praised the color accuracy and crisp text the QD-OLED panel can produce. Verified reviews from Amazon, Best Buy, and Samsung's own site agree that the picture quality is some of the best on the market and highlight that the TV's quality is well worth the price.Samsung S95D specs: Screen size: 55-77 inches |Panel type: OLED |Refresh rate: Up to 144Hz |Resolution: 4K |HDR: OLED HDR Pro |Audio: Dolby Atmos, Object Tracking Sound+ |Voice controls: Alexa, Bixby, Hey Google Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less The TCL Q65 continues the brand's tradition offering quality smart TVs at affordable prices. You can pay as little as $250 for the 43-inch version, and even the largest size at an impressive 98 inches retails for around $2,000 making it one of the most affordable big-screen TVs you can buy. At any size, the Q65 offers great 4K resolution with a 60Hz refresh rate and Dolby Vision support for smooth action and sharper contrast.It also supports Dolby Atmos for virtual surround sound and a more immersive experience. You'll get built-in voice controls via Alexa, Hey Google, and even Siri via Apple HomeKit for hands-free TV use. Console gamers will love the dedicated gaming mode with automatic low latency and VRR support to prevent screen tearing and stuttering. TCL U65 specs: Screen size: 43-98 inches |Panel type:LED |Refresh rate: 60Hz |Resolution: 4K |HDR: Dolby Vision IQ |Audio: Dolby Atmos, DTS Virtual:X|Voice controls: Alexa, Hey Google, Apple HomeKit Picture quality 8 Usability 9 Design 7 Value 8 Brightness 7 Pros Affordable at any size Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support Built-in voice controls Cons Only 60Hz refresh rate No G-Sync or FreeSync VRR support TCL Q65 Best budget TV 3.9 / 5 Score The TCL Q65 continues the brand's tradition offering quality smart TVs at affordable prices. You can pay as little as $250 for the 43-inch version, and even the largest size at an impressive 98 inches retails for around $2,000 making it one of the most affordable big-screen TVs you can buy. At any size, the Q65 offers great 4K resolution with a 60Hz refresh rate and Dolby Vision support for smooth action and sharper contrast.It also supports Dolby Atmos for virtual surround sound and a more immersive experience. You'll get built-in voice controls via Alexa, Hey Google, and even Siri via Apple HomeKit for hands-free TV use. Console gamers will love the dedicated gaming mode with automatic low latency and VRR support to prevent screen tearing and stuttering. TCL U65 specs: Screen size: 43-98 inches |Panel type:LED |Refresh rate: 60Hz |Resolution: 4K |HDR: Dolby Vision IQ |Audio: Dolby Atmos, DTS Virtual:X|Voice controls: Alexa, Hey Google, Apple HomeKit Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less This premium flagship OLED from LG may seem pricey, but if you're looking for some of the most impressive picture and sound quality you can get in a TV, it's worth the extra money. The OLED panel has over 8 million self-lit pixels capable of producing deep, inky blacks and crisp, bright whites for enhanced contrast. Support for Dolby Vision HDR helps enhance detailing and color accuracy even more for truly lifelike images. And console gamers will love the dedicated gaming hub with support for both Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync VRR for smoother motion during fast-paced gameplay.Read the review: The LG G4 was the best TV I saw this yearThe LG G4 has typical built-in audio with support for Dolby Atmos virtual surround sound. But if you want to add a sound bar, ZDNET's Editor in Chief Jason Hiner recommends the system as a budget-friendly option as well as the for true cinephiles who want top-notch sound to match the equally impressive picture.LG G4 specs: Screen size:65-97 inches |Panel type:OLED |Refresh rate:120Hz |Resolution:4K |HDR:Dolby Vision |Audio:Dolby Atmos |Voice controls:Alexa, Hey Google Pros G-Sync and FreeSync VRR support Signature OLED picture quality Dolby Vision HDR Cons Pricey, especially at larger screen sizes This premium flagship OLED from LG may seem pricey, but if you're looking for some of the most impressive picture and sound quality you can get in a TV, it's worth the extra money. The OLED panel has over 8 million self-lit pixels capable of producing deep, inky blacks and crisp, bright whites for enhanced contrast. Support for Dolby Vision HDR helps enhance detailing and color accuracy even more for truly lifelike images. And console gamers will love the dedicated gaming hub with support for both Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync VRR for smoother motion during fast-paced gameplay.Read the review: The LG G4 was the best TV I saw this yearThe LG G4 has typical built-in audio with support for Dolby Atmos virtual surround sound. But if you want to add a sound bar, ZDNET's Editor in Chief Jason Hiner recommends the system as a budget-friendly option as well as the for true cinephiles who want top-notch sound to match the equally impressive picture.LG G4 specs: Screen size:65-97 inches |Panel type:OLED |Refresh rate:120Hz |Resolution:4K |HDR:Dolby Vision |Audio:Dolby Atmos |Voice controls:Alexa, Hey Google Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less The QN90D is one of Samsung's latest additions to their Neo QLED TV lineup, and it's an excellent choice for both PC and console gamers. It is available in screen sizes from as small as 43 inches for use in shared spaces or as a monitor to as large as 98 inches for the ultimate gaming screen. It also has a base refresh rate of 120Hz that can be pushed to 144Hz, making it great for both console and PC gaming.The QN90D supports both Dolby Atmos and Samsung's object-tracking sound technology for 3D virtual surround sound that follows the on-screen action. This aims to give you a more immersive experience without the need for a headset or expensive extra speakers. A dedicated gaming dashboard lets you have access to cloud gaming services like Xbox GamePass while also monitoring picture and audio settings to catch issues in real time before they can ruin your game. With support for AMD FreeSync Premium Pro VRR technology, the TV will automatically adjust its refresh rate to match your PC or console, preventing annoying screen tearing and stuttering.ZDNET's Jason Hiner was able to get up close and personal with the QN90D at a Samsung event and was impressed with how bright the screen could get as well as the high-quality picture. He also praised the inclusion of Samsung's Knox security chip for better online privacy.Samsung QN90D specs: Screen size:43-98 inches |Panel type:Neo QLED |Refresh rate:Up to 144Hz |Resolution:4K |HDR:Neo Quantum HDR+ |Audio:Dolby Atmos, Object Tracking Sound+ |Voice controls:Alexa, Bixby, Hey Google Picture quality 8 Usability 9 Design 7 Value 7 Brightness 9 Pros Up to 144Hz refresh rate AMD FreeSync Premium Pro support Dolby Atmos and Object Tracking Sound+ Up to 98-inch screen size Cons No Dolby Vision support Cloud gaming services require extra subscriptions Samsung QN90D Best TV for gaming 4 / 5 Score The QN90D is one of Samsung's latest additions to their Neo QLED TV lineup, and it's an excellent choice for both PC and console gamers. It is available in screen sizes from as small as 43 inches for use in shared spaces or as a monitor to as large as 98 inches for the ultimate gaming screen. It also has a base refresh rate of 120Hz that can be pushed to 144Hz, making it great for both console and PC gaming.The QN90D supports both Dolby Atmos and Samsung's object-tracking sound technology for 3D virtual surround sound that follows the on-screen action. This aims to give you a more immersive experience without the need for a headset or expensive extra speakers. A dedicated gaming dashboard lets you have access to cloud gaming services like Xbox GamePass while also monitoring picture and audio settings to catch issues in real time before they can ruin your game. With support for AMD FreeSync Premium Pro VRR technology, the TV will automatically adjust its refresh rate to match your PC or console, preventing annoying screen tearing and stuttering.ZDNET's Jason Hiner was able to get up close and personal with the QN90D at a Samsung event and was impressed with how bright the screen could get as well as the high-quality picture. He also praised the inclusion of Samsung's Knox security chip for better online privacy.Samsung QN90D specs: Screen size:43-98 inches |Panel type:Neo QLED |Refresh rate:Up to 144Hz |Resolution:4K |HDR:Neo Quantum HDR+ |Audio:Dolby Atmos, Object Tracking Sound+ |Voice controls:Alexa, Bixby, Hey Google Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at TCL The TCL QM6K was unveiled at CES 2025 with some pretty impressive improvements over the previous iteration of the brand's mid-range TV. They've replaced the QLED panel with a Mini LED capable of producing up to 98 percent of the DCI-P3 color gamut. This means you'll get bolder, more vibrant colors and cleaner contrast. It supports Dolby Vision IQ and Dolby Atmos virtual surround sound, an IMAX Enhanced picture mode for movie buffs, and a 144Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync Premium VRR support for console gaming.Read more: TCL stunned CES 2025 by launching a TV you can preorder immediatelyAnd in a rarity for CES, the QM6K is available for preorder right now, in sizes ranging from 65 to 85 inches with the 98-inch model set to release at a later time this year. If you decide to upgrade, TCL is offering a preorder bonus where you'll receive a Q75H soundbar and subwoofer for free so you can complete your home theater.TCL QM6K specs: Screen size:65-98 inches |Panel type:Mini LED |Refresh rate:144Hz |Resolution:4K |HDR:Dolby Vision IQ |Audio:Dolby Atmos, DTS Virtual: X |Voice controls:Alexa, Hey Google Pros Great picture quality Up to 98-inch screen size 144Hz refresh rate Pre-order soundbar bundle Cons No Nvidia G-Sync support 98-inch model not available for pre-order yet The TCL QM6K was unveiled at CES 2025 with some pretty impressive improvements over the previous iteration of the brand's mid-range TV. They've replaced the QLED panel with a Mini LED capable of producing up to 98 percent of the DCI-P3 color gamut. This means you'll get bolder, more vibrant colors and cleaner contrast. It supports Dolby Vision IQ and Dolby Atmos virtual surround sound, an IMAX Enhanced picture mode for movie buffs, and a 144Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync Premium VRR support for console gaming.Read more: TCL stunned CES 2025 by launching a TV you can preorder immediatelyAnd in a rarity for CES, the QM6K is available for preorder right now, in sizes ranging from 65 to 85 inches with the 98-inch model set to release at a later time this year. If you decide to upgrade, TCL is offering a preorder bonus where you'll receive a Q75H soundbar and subwoofer for free so you can complete your home theater.TCL QM6K specs: Screen size:65-98 inches |Panel type:Mini LED |Refresh rate:144Hz |Resolution:4K |HDR:Dolby Vision IQ |Audio:Dolby Atmos, DTS Virtual: X |Voice controls:Alexa, Hey Google Read More Show Expert Take Show less What is the best TV? My choice for the best TV is the Samsung S95D for it's exceptional picture quality thanks to the updated QD-OLED panel and anti-glare coating. It also features virtual surround sound via Dolby Atmos and Samsung's Object Tracking Sound+ technology to give you a more immersive experience without having to set up extra speakers. And the base refresh rate of 120Hz can be bumped up to 144Hz for console and PC gaming or smoother action during fast-paced movies, shows, and sports broadcasts.Best TVStarting PriceHDR/AudioScreen sizeSamsung S95D$2,600OLED HDR Pro/ Object Tracking Sound+, Dolby Atmos55-77 inchesTCL Q65$430Dolby Vision/Dolby Atmos43-98 inchesLG G4$2,800Dolby Vision/Dolby Atmos65-97 inchesSamsung QN90D$1,500Neo Quantum HDR+, Dolby Atmos/Object Tracking Sound +43-98 inches TCL QM6K$1,000Dolby Vision IQ, Dolby Atmos, DTS Virtual: X 65-98 inches *MSRP at time of writing. Please note that actual prices may vary on retailer, screen size, and available promotions or discounts. Show more What is the right TV for you? After determining your budget, it's important to ensure that your new TV will fit comfortably in your space. Start by measuring the distance (in inches) between your couch and where the TV will be wall-mounted or placed on a stand. Divide that number in half to find the ideal TV size for your room. For example, if your couch is 120 inches (10 feet) away from your TV, the recommended TV size for your room would be about 60 inches. Additionally, it's a good idea to consider accessibility features such as voice controls, screen readers, and closed captioning to ensure that everyone can enjoy the entertainment. These features can provide an enhanced viewing experience for those who are hearing or visually impaired, and they can be especially helpful for households with young children or elderly family members. Buy this best TV...If you need...Samsung S95DA high-quality TV for all your entertainment. The Samsung S95D has one of the best OLED panels you can buy right now, and it's expert calibrated for color accuracy to give you more lifelike images.TCL Q65A budget-friendly TV. The TCL Q65 offers Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support along with built-in Alexa controls and and updated LED panel for a price that won't break the bank.LG G4An OLED TV. The LG G4 is the newest OLED flagship model from the brand, offering an updated OLED panel, Nvidia G-Sync VRR support, and a 120Hz refresh rate.Samsung QN90DA TV for gaming. The Samsung QN90D has a base refresh rate of 120Hz that can be pushed to 144Hz for gaming. You can also get access to cloud gaming services like Xbox GamePass and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro VRR technology.TCL QM6KA big screen TV. The TCL QM6K features a bright screen that is great in almost any lighting environment, and it produces bold, bright colors for great picture quality. Show more Factors to consider when choosing a TV While shopping for a new TV for your home theater or a second screen for your bedroom, there are a few factors to keep in mind:Brand integrity:While it's tempting to snap up that ultra-cheap TV from a smaller or unknown brand in order to save money, you may end up paying more in the long run. And you could run into customer service issues when trying to make a return or troubleshoot an issue. Each TV on this list was chosen from a trusted brand with verified customer service options.Smart features:Customers have come to expect smart features like streaming apps and virtual assistants as-standard in their TVs. Each model on this list was chosen because it offers a host of features like preinstalled streaming apps, virtual assistant support, and Wi-Fi connectivity.Reasons to upgrade:Brands may release model updates almost yearly, but they don't always give you a real reason to upgrade. Each TV we chose offers upgraded panels, brighter pictures, and in some cases better online security. Show more How we test TVs While testing and researching the TVs featured on this list, I and other ZDNET experts kept these criteria in mind:Price:Not all budgets are created equal. And if you're working with a limited budget, that shouldn't mean you have to settle for a sub-par TV. Each TV model on this list has been chosen across a variety of price points to help accommodate different needs.Screen size:The most important factor to consider, after price, when shopping for a new TV is whether or not it will fit into your space. Each best TV on this list was chosen because they are available in a wide variety of sizes to suit different rooms.Picture and audio quality:A new TV doesn't mean much, even if it costs an arm and a leg, if it doesn't provide a great picture and clear audio. Each TV on this list has been ensured to support various HDR codecs, including HDR10+ and Dolby Vision, as well as enhanced audio software like Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus, and object-tracking sound.For a more detailed look, check out our extensive TV testing methodology. Show more FAQs on TVs Which is better: Roku or Android TVs? IT depends on your personal preference. Both platforms have pros and cons. Roku TVs tend to be some of the most affordable on the market while still providing a great streaming experience via a suite of preloaded, popular apps. Roku TVs also have a simplified home menu with your most-used apps and HDMI-connected devices in one easy-to-navigate hub, so you never have to scroll through confusing menus or memorize input locations. The downside? They often don't have native voice control or support for Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision.Android-based televisions are a bit more expensive, but you get more features, like built-in voice controls, Bluetooth connectivity, support for variable refresh rate technology, as well as Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos sound processing.When comparing Roku and Android-based TVs, consider your must-have features so you can choose the model that best fits your needs and budget. Show more What size TV do I need? The best way to find your ideal TV screen size is to measure the distance (in inches) between your couch and where the TV will be wall-mounted or placed on a dedicated stand. Next, divide that distance by two. So if your couch is 120 inches (10 feet) from where the TV will be, the ideal size would be 60 inches.You can always go a bit bigger or smaller depending on your budget and what's available, but you don't want to go wild and get a huge screen if you don't need to. Not only do you run the risk of having your new, expensive TV not fit your space, but a screen that's too big can overwhelm a room and even cause motion sickness. On the other end of the spectrum, while smaller screens tend to be more affordable, a TV that's too small for a room can make the space feel cavernous and force everyone to crowd around in order to see. Show more Is it worth buying an 8K TV? As of right now, we're inclined to say no. Not only are 8K televisions very expensive, but there isn't any 8K content available over broadcast, streaming, or gaming outlets to justify buying one. A conservative estimate would say that 8K streaming and gaming will be available within the next five years or so, and it will require a very fast internet connection to handle the bandwidth needed to stream consistently in ultra-high definition.If you've always been an early adopter of tech, want to get a jump on future-proofing your home theater, and have extra cash to spend, you might get more value out of an 8K television than someone who just wants to watch Succession on HBO Max.If you're looking for an 8K panel, I personally recommend checking out the Samsung QN900C. I had a chance to check it out, and during my initial testing, I really, truly enjoyed the display. Show more What's the difference between OLED and QLED? OLED and QLED panel types use the same basic components to create images on screen: a power source, a light source, and a color source. The key differences are exactly how these panels get power, light, and color.A QLED screen, mostly seen in Samsung, TCL, and Hisense models, uses a modified LED panel and a "quantum dot" screen to create images. The "quantum" in QLED seems to be more of a catchy marketing term than an allusion to actual quantum tech, but it does give you enhanced color and detailing over a regular LED display.An OLED panel, found in LG, Sony, and Vizio TVs, uses an array of mini LED lamps that are individually lit along with organic substrates for color. The individual LEDs allow for true blacks to create stunning contrast and make colors pop. It's an expensive technology to produce, so OLED TVs are pretty pricey. But if picture quality is your top priority, it's a worthwhile investment. Show more What is the best TV for a living room? The best TV for a living room can vary depending on the size of the room and your budget. However, some of the best options available include the Samsung QN90B, the LG C2, and the Sony X80K. These TVs provide excellent picture and sound quality, a range of features, and a variety of screen sizes to suit different room types. Show more Do I need a soundbar or can I rely on the TV's built-in speakers? It really depends on your preferences and the TV model you choose. Some TVs have excellent built-in speakers that provide ample sound quality for most viewers, while others may benefit from a separate soundbar or audio system for a more immersive audio experience. If you're a movie or gaming enthusiast, you may want to consider investing in a soundbar or dedicated audio system to complement your TV.Also:The best soundbars Show more Other TVs we've tested ZDNETs TV Guide TVs Roundups TV Models Reviewed and Compared TVs Explained ZDNET Recommends

Extension cords and power strips are often safe for home and office electronics, but they can be hazardous for other common appliances during the winter time.

ZDNETAfter months of beta testing, Microsoft officially released its major 2024 update for Windows 11 on October 1. Known asWindows 11 24H2, the latest version enhances theCopilot AI, spruces up File Explorer, promises faster performance and greater stability, and introduces other improvements.Rolling out to eligible Windows 11 23H2 and 22H2 users, the update may appear on your PC's Windows Update screen. If so, you can certainly install it from there. Otherwise, the new version is accessible onMicrosoft's Download Windows 11 page, where you can grab it through the Installation Assistant, installation media, or as an ISO file.Also: No, Microsoft has not 'reversed course' on Windows 11 hardware requirementsBut before you dive into the 2024 update, you may want to reconsider. The new version has been plagued by a variety of bugs that could prevent you from fully using Windows the way you want and expect to.Some of the glitches have been documented by Microsoft, and others have been reported by Windows users. In response, Microsoft hasput the update on hold for problematic PCsthat could encounter blue screens and other issues.To address the barrage of bugs, the company has rolled out three series of patches so far -- one in late October, another in mid-November, and a third on December 10 as part of the monthly Patch Tuesday. A January patch also addressed a conflict with several Ubisoft games.Also:How to upgrade your 'incompatible' Windows 10 PC to Windows 11: Two waysTheOctober updatefixed a few bugs but also created a couple of new ones. TheNovember updateresolved several, but certainly not all, of the outstanding glitches. The December update fixed one specific glitch with certain USB-connected scanners and other devices. The January patch finallyfixed conflicts with the Ubisoft gamesStar Wars Outlaws, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora, Assassin's Creed Valhalla, Assassin's Creed Origins, and Assassin's Creed Odyssey.But further bugs have continued to pop up, turning the update into an albatross around Microsoft's neck. Here are just some of the issues you may encounter if you jump to the new version.1. Inability to install future updatesIf you installed the Windows 11 24H2 update through a CD or USB flash drive anytime between Oct. 8, 2024, and Nov. 12, 2024, you may beunable to run any future security updates. That means you're stuck if new vulnerabilities are discovered and you need to patch the OS. The problem doesn't occur if you installed or updated Windows 11 24H2 through Windows Update or the Microsoft Update Catalog website."When using media to install Windows 11, version 24H2, the device might remain in a state where it cannot accept further Windows security updates," Microsoft has explained on itsWindows 11, version 24H2 known issues and notifications page.What's the fix? If you haven't yet run the updates from the past few months for Windows 11 24H2 and want to install them via CD or USB drive, be sure to grab the latest version fromMicrosoft's Download Windows 11 page. If you've already updated Windows 11 24H2 through physical media and can't install the latest patches, be patient. Microsoft is working on a fix for the problem. Screenshot by Lance Whitney/ZDNET2. Auto HDR feature conflict with gamesWindows 11 24H2 users withAuto HDRenabled could find thatmany games fail to display the right colors, while some may not respond at all. Auto HDR tries to enhance the graphics for games by converting standard dynamic range (SDR) content to high dynamic range (HDR). Microsoft has paused the update for affected PCs. If you've already installed the 2024 update, you can sneak past the problem by simply turning off Auto HDR through the display settings in Windows. Screenshot by Lance Whitney/ZDNET3. Conflict with Easy Anti-Cheat online gaming appA program known asEasy Anti-Cheatis automatically installed with some online games to prevent cheating. Windows 11 2024 doesn't play well with this software-- users can experience the dreaded Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), at least in rare cases, according to Microsoft.Only devices with Intel's Alder Lake+ processors and vPro platform are affected. Microsoft is working with the developer of Easy Anti-Cheat to resolve the glitch. Until then, those who run this app on PCs with the affected Intel chip should be aware of the conflict. Screenshot by Lance Whitney/ZDNET4. Blue screens in other instancesBeyond the clash with Easy Anti-Cheat, other situations can lead to the BSOD in the Windows 11 2024 update. Intel and Microsoft have discoveredincompatibility issues with certain driversfor Intel Smart Sound Technology (Intel SST) on Intel 11th Gen Core processors. People running the affected driver and Windows 11 24H2 could run into blue screens.Also: Can't quit Windows 10? Microsoft will soon charge for updates. Here's how muchSources told Windows Latest that Microsoft is reportedly aware of a glitch in the 24H2 update that causesblue screening for PCs with certain Western Digital SSDs. This one has affected Lenovo, Asus VivoBook, and other model computers.In another issuespotted by Windows Latest, PCs with Z890 motherboards sold by MSI, Asus, and other vendors can run into blue screens. This occurs most notably on systems with the Core Ultra 200S series and its integrated Xe-LPG graphics. Alyson Windsor/ZDNET5. Disappearing mouse pointerA bug in Windows 11 24H2 and other recent Windows updatescauses the mouse pointer or cursor to vanishin Chromium-based apps such as Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge, according to Windows Latest. The glitch only occurs when you interact with a text input field, though there is a workaround for it, which Windows Latest describes in its article. Screenshot by Lance Whitney/ZDNET6. Internet connection issuesSome people who've installed the Windows 11 2024 update report that theirinternet connections are now glitchy. As discovered byWindows Report, these users seem to be able to connect via Ethernet or Wi-Fi, but they don't receive a valid IP address and therefore can't get an internet or network connection.Also: The best VPN services: Expert testedNeither updating drivers and firmware nor resetting the network connectivity resolves the problem. In certain cases, using a static IP address instead of a dynamic address resolves the issue. Screenshot by Lance Whitney/ZDNET7. Time zone glitchUnless you have administrative privileges in Windows, you may beunable to change the time zoneat the Date & Time screen in Windows Settings. In this case, the time zone option fails to even appear. Microsoft has tagged this bug as mitigated, which means it hasn't been fixed, but there is a workaround. Just head to the old Date and Time setting in Control Panel and change it from there. Screenshot by Lance Whitney/ZDNET8. Broken clipboard historyThe Windows clipboard history is a great tool for storing and syncing a history of copied clipboard items across multiple devices. I've liked this feature ever since Microsoft introduced it in 2018. Alas, the latest Windows 11 update breaks the clipboard history, at least for some people.Also:The best Windows laptops: Expert testedAsspotted by Windows Latest, dozens of users chiming in on different online forums report that the tool keeps insisting that the clipboard history is empty, even though they've already copied one or more items to it. Though this bug seems to affect only a small number of users, it was flagged by Windows Insider testers a few months ago. But apparently, Microsoft didn't bother to fix it or didn't fix it properly. Screenshot by Lance Whitney/ZDNET9. Network sharing doesn't workIn another network-related issue triggered by the 24H2 update on some PCs, either the computer or other devices fail to appear in the network list,according to Windows Latest. As a result, you're unable to share files and printers between different PCs.The problem could be related to Function Discovery Resource Publication (FDResPub), which lets Windows 11 remain visible on the network. As a workaround, some people have resolved the glitch by setting FDResPub to start manually instead of automatically.10. Printer issues with ARM-based Copilot+ PCsYet another issue that has been popping up affects people who own Copilot+ PCs. Based on several user reportsspotted by Neowin, some users who upgrade to Windows 11 24H2 are unable to set up or use a printer. The glitch seems to be hitting those with printers made by HP, Canon, Brother, and other manufacturers.Microsoft has posteda support articlehighlighting the problem and offering some workarounds. But at this point, this bug remains unresolved.11. Audio output glitch on some PCsPCs that contain Dirac Audio with a file named cridspapo.dll could bump into audio issues.Dirac Audiois a digital sound technology that improves audio clarity and precision. Some users with this configuration who ran the update say that the integrated speakers, Bluetooth speakers, and Bluetooth headsetshave stopped workingand that first-party and third-party applications no longer recognize these speakers or headsets.As with most of the bugs, Microsoft has paused the update for affected PCs. Once the manufacturer releases a fix, Microsoft promises to offer a new driver through the standard Windows Update process. Dirac12. Outlook may not launch with Google Workspace SyncIn some cases,Microsoft Outlook may fail to load if Google Workspace Sync is installed. This particular Google Workspace Sync tool lets you manage your Google Workspace emails, calendar events, contacts, notes, and tasks directly in Outlook.The specific error that pops up says: "Cannot Start Microsoft Outlook. Cannot Open the Outlook Window. The set of folders cannot be opened. An unexpected error has occurred. MAPI was unable to load the information service..."Microsoft has put a hold on the update for affected users. You may be able to resolve the issue on your own by updating to the latest version of Google Workspace Sync (4.3.68.0). But if the glitch persists, you'll have to contact Google Workspace Support for help. MicrosoftThese are just some of the glitches plaguing Microsoft and its users with the Windows 11 2024 update. Microsoft has listed others on itsKnown Issues and Notifications page.I installed the update on a test Windows 11 PC and have encountered a few of the bugs described here, along with others. A calendar and contact syncing program I use called Sync2Cloud won't run in Windows 11 24H2. Two driver updates from Intel keep failing when I try to install them. Connecting to the PC using Microsoft's Remote Desktop Connection doesn't always work the first time around.Also: You can finally test Microsoft's controversial Recall feature - here's howSome conflicts are expected when Microsoft rolls out a major new Windows update. Even with widescale beta testing, not every potential problem will be found. However, issues like these are still frustrating for those of us who need to use Windows for work and other tasks.The number of bugs in Windows 11 24H2 also seems greater than in past annual Windows updates. The ongoing spread of one bug after another and Microsoft's need to stall the update for many people both point to a problem with this latest update. Until more of these bugs can be squashed, Windows 11 users may want to hold off on the 2024 update and stick with their current version.Windows

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On the rare occasion that you find a Linux app or service isn't starting properly, there's a handy command ready to help you suss out the problem.

PM Images/Getty ImagesThe cloud has dominated enterprise technology provision for a decade or more. Public cloud services, with huge capacity, commitments to security, and assurances that the latest and greatest technologies are running underneath, offer a compelling value proposition. In the age of artificial intelligence (AI), capacity is critical. However, a new survey suggests evidence of a movement away from public provision.Close to seven in 10 companies (69%) have moved at least some apps off the cloud and back to on-premise systems or private clouds, thesurveyof 1,420 IT executives from Rackspace finds. Reasons given for this retrenchment back to on-premise environments include data security and compliance concerns, cited by 50%, better integration with existing on-premise systems, mentioned by 48%, and cost savings and budget constraints, cited by 44%.Also: The best email hosting services: Expert testedIndustry experts and business leaders also recognized a reconsideration of the value of public clouds. For one, the rising costs of cloud subscriptions -- with accompanying sticker shock -- means many finance chiefs have paused for thought. "Enterprises are just spending too much on public cloud services, given applications they may have migrated to the cloud years ago," said David Linthicum, a leading consultant, author, and former CTO with Deloitte.Technical debt may be the root of many moves back to on-premise environments. "Normally this is a self-inflicted thing," Linthicum said. "They didn't refactor the applications to make them more efficient in running on the public cloud providers. So the public cloud providers, much like if we're pulling too much electricity off the grid, just hit them with huge bills to support the computational and storage needs of those under-optimized applications."Rather than spending more money to optimize or refactor applications, these same enterprises put them back on-premise, said Linthicum. Security and compliance are also an issue. Enterprises "realize that it's too expensive to remain compliant in the cloud, with data and sovereignty rules. So, they just make a decision to push it back on-premise."Also:5 reasons why Google's Trillium could transform AI and cloud computing - and 2 obstaclesThe perceived high costs of cloud operations "often stem from lift-and-shift migrations that in some cases didn't optimize applications for cloud environments," said Miha Kralj, global senior partner for hybrid cloud service at IBM Consulting. "These direct transfers typically maintain existing architectures that don't leverage cloud-native capabilities, resulting in inefficient resource utilization and unexpectedly high expenses." However, the solution to this problem "isn't necessarily repatriation to on-premises infrastructure," said Kralj. "Most performance, security, and cost challenges we encounter can be addressed through cloud-native refactoring -- redesigning applications to fully utilize cloud capabilities like auto-scaling, containerization, and serverless architectures. Organizations that invest in refactoring consistently report improved operational efficiency and better cost control."When it comes to costs, "many organizations are finding that cloud solutions can be costly, with unexpected expenses from data egress fees and premium features, among others," said Timothy E. Bates, professor at the University of Michigan and former CTO for Lenovo and General Motors. "On the other hand, on-prem solutions have upfront costs, but they are more cost-effective in the long run for stable workloads." Bates witnessed the trend toward achieving a better balance between cloud and on-prem while architecting and building hybrid solutions for GM: "Large enterprises are increasingly reevaluating the risks and limitations of relying solely on the cloud for critical workloads and intellectual property." Enterprises don't like being dependent upon someone else's cloud infrastructure, said Richard Robbins, founder and owner of TheTechnologyVault.com. "Many of the enterprises that are regulated, especially banks and other financial institutions, are moving some or all of their web apps from the cloud back to on-prem or to hybrid setups," he observed. "It is clear that there has been enough vulnerability and downsides to cloud hosting to make executives feel nervous about not having more control over the security and other aspects of cloud hosting." Bates also said security, control, and cost efficiency are at the roots of such cloud hesitation: "A cloud, while offering scalability, is a shared resource -- organizations have to trust third-party providers like Azure, Amazon, or Google with their most sensitive data. For businesses with highly proprietary information or strict compliance needs, the potential risks of not having end-to-end control over the storage of that information far exceed the benefits."Also:How to easily use Cloudflare's secure DNS on your Mac and why it even mattersTo a large degree, the hype around the cloud has dissipated, with many people focusing on AI instead. As a result, many decision-makers are taking a clear-eyed view of the cloud's benefits and drawbacks. "I remember talking to CIOs and DevOps personnel in 2017 -- several of them had been assigned, to their dismay, to do whatever was needed to move their technology into the cloud," said Robbins. "Most felt overwhelmed with the assignment and pushed back. That was during the cloud rush, when having apps hosted in the cloud was a status symbol and a marketing flex." Now, "with the movement to the cloud being hasty and not very well coordinated, enterprises are re-thinking their initial decision to move to the cloud," Robbins continued. "Companies like Dropbox, one of the first major enterprises to use the cloud, began moving back to their own hosting infrastructure as early as 2015. The benefits of their reversal -- including saving nearly $75 million in operational costs over a two-year period -- have influenced other enterprises to follow suit."Bates said reliability and performance are also considerations that favor on-premise systems. He said applications that require low latency, and mission-critical tools or apps that deal with proprietary processes, are sometimes better run from dedicated, in-house infrastructure. "When we built the hybrid model for GM, we got the benefits of the cloud without compromising on the security and reliability of on-prem systems," he said. "This hybrid model is something that is now being adopted by more companies."However, some experts believe evidence of a movement away from the cloud is unclear, especially when vendor perspectives are involved. "When we talk about the potential security benefits of local architecture, this is a drop in the bucket compared to larger conversations in cybersecurity at this moment," said Seth Geftic, vice president of product marketing at Huntress. "Although I don't believe that people are moving away from the cloud in such high waves, there are a number of potential reasons that a company could look toward local infrastructure."A balancing act between on-prem and cloud will likely continue, with the need to weigh the advantages for both sides. "Cloud providers have a huge deal of control over their resources, meaning that there is little companies can do when they decide to put up prices," said Geftic."Cloud is an expensive solution, but one that offsets that with a number of advantages -- speed, scalability, ease of use. What the industry could experience is a slight deviation from full-cloud architecture and a restructuring toward hybrid environments. A direct leap from fully cloud-based to fully local seems like a slight stretch, if I'm being honest."Featured

The Galaxy S25 series is slated to be announced on Wednesday, but we may also get surprise appearances on the wearables side.

ZDNET's key takeaways The Even Realities G1 smart glasses sport an excellent micro-LED optical engine projector for display. These glasses can help you navigate, translate, and use them as a teleprompter. The G1 is an expensive pair at $599, and costs add up if you opt for prescription lenses. View now at Even Realities I've had the Even Realities G1 Smart Glasses for a couple of months now. While I haven't been able to wear them every day consecutively, I've worn them for about 30 days. My friends say these are very stylish and "don't look like a gadget," which is their biggest win.So far, we've seen several takes on smart glasses, including the camera-enabled AI Meta Ray-Bans, Bose glasses speakers, and TCL RayNeo AR glasses, but the Even Realities G1 are none of those. They have a display and microphones but no speaker or camera. The G1 is a smart amalgamation of a minimalist feature set that feels just right, where tech takes a backseat and lifestyle sits in the front.The Even Realities G1 Smart Glasses need more polish, but from what I've experienced over the past few months, they're improving with each upgrade. You might not want to spend $600 on a pair of smart spectacles, but these are very tempting. details View at Even Realities The future is hereThe Even Realities G1 feature a Holistic Adaptive Optical System (HAOS), which is fancy wording for two tiny displays. As shown in the title image and by contrast in the image above, the two rectangles on both lenses responsible for displaying information can be seen only at an angle. These aren't usually visible to others.Also:Why Meta's Ray-Ban Smart Glasses are my favorite tech purchase this yearWhen you tilt your head upwards, the micro-LED optical engine projector displays green digital text at 640 x 200-pixel resolution. The resolution might not sound impressive to the smartphone spec sheet-obsessed brain, but this is an excellent display. It's clearly visible in daylight, and you can make out details easily. Prakhar Khanna/ZDNETYou can adjust the angle for the glance-up feature within the app. For example, I've set it at 20 degrees, so whenever the glasses detect my head tilting at 20 degrees, they display the screen. The dashboard shows the time, notes, notification count, and more. It might seem like this could interfere with real-life vision, but it doesn't because you're consciously triggering the display instead of it being perpetually present.Also: Halliday's new AI glasses are what Meta, Google, and Apple have been trying to buildEven Realities have bonded two lenses to create the digital lens, but these don't feel any heavier than my regular glasses. Unlike other bulky smart glasses, the G1 are comfortable. I love my Meta Ray-Bans, but even they are heavier than my regular pair of sunglasses. However, I haven't experienced nose pad fatigue during my review process.The weight distribution leans more on the arms than the frame. As a result, the G1 are very comfortable. You can also get prescription lenses (costing $150 extra) and use them as regular specs like me. Prakhar Khanna/ZDNETThe rest of the hardware includes the battery, gesture pads, screwless hinges, microphones, and antennae for interacting with the phone app over Bluetooth. Originally launched in a round design, they've since added another option -- the Even G1 B -- with rectangular frames. The frame features a matte finish and is made of solid magnesium, while the temples are coated in silicon for better grip.These sit in a case resembling a regular glasses case, which can charge them up to 2.5 times. However, it's been finicky for me. On more than one occasion, I found the glasses not charged to 100%, despite the case previously charging them only once.What the Even Realities G1 Smart Glasses can doThe Even Realities G1 have six key features. Here's how they perform and how I'd want them to improve.1. NotificationsWhen connected to the phone (almost always), the G1 displays a notification count on the dashboard. You can access these notifications by tilting your head up for a temporary look or using gestures on the touchpad if you want to view them later.It's a neat trick, but two things are missing. You can't reply to notifications. I'd love for the Even AI to help me reply by dictating a message. Second, notifications need to be cleared manually. They aren't cleared even after you've viewed them on your phone, which creates friction in the user experience. Prakhar Khanna/ZDNET2. TranslateThis feature is handy when traveling to a place where you don't speak the language. I tested it with my limited French and Spanish, and it was accurate. You choose one of the 13 supported languages, and when a person speaks in that language, the glasses display the translation on-screen.However, this feature is one-sided. You can translate what the other person is saying, but you can't hold a conversation unless they also have a translation device. A potential solution could involve the glasses translating their language and your smartphone translating yours into theirs.3. QuickNoteI've enjoyed adding reminders with QuickNote on the G1. When you press and hold the right touchpad, the glasses display "Quick Note Recording." I've used it to jot down tasks and ideas throughout the day.Also:These Alexa-enabled smart glasses beat the Meta Ray-Bans in key ways, and they're $90 off right nowCurrently, notes are displayed on the dashboard when you glance up next. I'd love to have the ability to choose which notes appear on the dashboard via the app. Sometimes, I jot down ideas for later, while other times, I need reminders for tasks to complete before the day ends. Prakhar Khanna/ZDNET4. NavigationIf you enjoy cycling, you'll love this. The G1 can display turn-by-turn navigation without needing to check your phone. It's not distracting, as the navigation is always present instead of being triggered by a glance. It's great for walking and cycling. The catch? You need to set your destination through the Even Realities app.Also: CES 2025: The 25 best products that we're still thinking about a week laterI prefer integration with Google or Apple Maps and the ability to ask the glasses to navigate. With built-in microphones, this seems feasible.5. TelepromptThe G1 doubles as a teleprompter for presentations. The audience won't notice you're reading from a screen. Simply add your script to the app, and it appears on the projector screen, bolding words in real-time. This is one of the most polished features.6. Even AIPowered by Perplexity, the Even AI can perform simple tasks like calculations and unit conversions. However, it needs to be quicker. I'd rather use my smartphone than wait for a query to be completed. This feature is still in beta.ZDNET's buying adviceLike every other first-gen product, the Even Realities G1 suffers from being less accessible. These glasses are expensive at $599, with additional costs for prescription lenses ($150) or clip-on shades($100) to double as sunglasses. Moreover, most features need more polish.The Even Realities G1 hardware is brilliant, and the glasses last an entire day easily. I charge them every night before bed. Over time, they've only improved with each update. I see the vision and am on board if Even Realities continues refining the feature set. Features like dashboard customization, Google Maps integration, and voice-activated navigation would make the G1 even better.These are promising smart glasses that I don't want to put down.This article was originally published on January 5, 2025, and was updated on January 18, 2025.Featured reviews

ZDNET's key takeaways The Privacy Hero 2, a $199 router available on FlashRouters, supports NordVPN and Surfshark alongside various VPN protocols. It comes with one year of access to Privacy Hero Wireguard VPN and, with a current promotion, one year of NordVPN. The company should improve the build quality and be more generous with the Ethernet cable's length. View now at Flashrouters Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are excellent tools for improving online privacy and security. Most people sign up with a VPN provider and then install their accompanying native applications on their PCs, tablets, and smartphones.However, there's another option: installing a VPN on your router. This method provides blanket coverage for any device connected to the router's Wi-Fi, allowing you to circumvent connection number restrictions and saving you the legwork of installing a VPN app on every device you want to protect.Also: You need a router-based VPN in 2025. Here's why and how to set one upIt's not always a quick task, though. Many routers on the market support third-party VPNs, but you may need reasonable technical knowledge and be willing to tamper with internal settings to make everything work.Alternatively, some VPN providers offer VPN-ready hardware; one such model is the subject of this review. The Privacy Hero 2, a $199 router available on FlashRouters, supports NordVPN and Surfshark (both owned by Nord Security) alongside a range of VPN protocols. It comes with one year of access to Privacy Hero Wireguard VPN and, with a current promotion, one year of NordVPN.Let's dive into this VPN-ready router's build, installation, benefits, and disadvantages.How's the build quality?Once you unbox the Privacy Hero 2, you're met with a lightweight, compact router. It's lighter than most routers I've tried or reviewed (except for travel routers) and has a plastic feel. The build quality is acceptable for a $199 router, although I felt I had to handle it carefully. Charlie Osborne/ZDNETThe Privacy Hero 2 comes with an A/C power supply, Ethernet cable, and installation guide. The size of the four external antennae seemed odd, probably because they were somewhat bulky compared to the router's tiny body. Overall, the build is reasonable, and my only real complaint is the short length of the Ethernet cable.Installation processI've tested a variety of Wi-Fi routers -- traditional, mesh, and VPN-supporting -- over the years and found that installation complexity varies. The Privacy Hero 2 was very easy to set up. The router comes with a booklet and online installation guides, including a short video that helps users with the hardware side of the installation. After I plugged the router in, it took about 10 minutes to update.Once the router is ready, you must sign up for a free Privacy Hero account, which gives you web access to the router's dashboard. You will see this message once the installation is complete. Screenshot by Charlie Osborne/ZDNETThe next step is creating your Wi-Fi network. There are two options:You can set the network name to the same name and password as your existing network, so you won't have to reconnect your devices individually to the new one. This option requires you to turn off your ISP's router Wi-Fi signal.Alternatively, you can create a new network name. As I intend to retire my aging TP-Link model that has served as an IoT device hub until now, this was the option I chose -- with the name Privacy Hero.You can explore the Privacy Hero dashboard now that you're set up. I like the layout; it's clean, simple, and fuss-free. You can see the status of your new router on the Home screen as well as change its name or timezone. Screenshot by Charlie Osborne/ZDNET Under the Wi-Fi tab, you can check that your new networks are operating properly, or disable them if you wish. Screenshot by Charlie Osborne/ZDNETI'll focus on the VPN tab, as these are the main settings you'd most likely want to change. You will see various options: VPN, VPN Kill Switch, Malware & Phishing, and Ad Blocking.Also: Fastest VPNs in 2025 tested by expertsIf you click the first tab, you can choose between different VPN services. In this review, we'll useNordVPN. Screenshot by Charlie Osborne/ZDNETThis part was the most awkward part of the installation process. The router comes with a free year of NordVPN service, so you must go to the account tab, find your voucher, validate it on NordVPN, create your account, and then generate an access token.Once you have the access token, you must submit it in the Privacy Hero dashboard. Due to timeout failures, my token was not accepted until after three attempts.NordVPN then launched on the router with a UK server as default. If you want to change your country, click on the connection and change the server yourself. Visit NordVPN's OpenVPN configuration file list and copy and paste the server name you want to connect to. Screenshot by Charlie Osborne/ZDNETEnsure you have also enabled the Kill Switch, Malware & Phishing, and Ad Blocking options. The kill switch will protect your privacy if your internet connection suddenly drops by stopping the router from leveraging your standard, unencrypted ISP connection. The other settings will reduce your exposure to tracking and cyber threats.Let's start streamingMy favorite feature is under the Streaming tab. Dubbed "Relocation," it enables you to select the country connection through which your VPN will attempt to route your traffic without constantly changing your setup.Also: NordVPN vs. Surfshark: Which VPN is right for you?If a streaming service is available in only one country -- for example, BBC iPlayer in the UK -- it won't be shown, as the organization will automatically direct your traffic via a UK relocation connection. If, however, a service is available in multiple countries, you have options. Netflix, for example, can be set to the UK, Canada, or the US.You will still need an active subscription; some streaming services require a subscription from your target country.Testing streaming servicesI spent over an hour testing various connections and configuring the router to my liking. That's not to say you need to spend the same amount of time doing so, as the router is about as "out of the box" as possible.NordVPN worked from the start, and I experienced no connection issues with my Samsung smartphone, Samsung TV, or Apple MacBook Pro. However, setting up streaming services was more challenging. Screenshot by Charlie Osborne/ZDNETI spent several hours testing which geo-blocked streaming libraries I could access through my new Wi-Fi connection. I tested the Privacy Hero 2 with Disney+, Netflix, and the anime streaming service Crunchyroll.Also: TunnelBear VPN review: An affordable, easy-to-use VPN with a few notable pitfallsMy first test was accessing my home UK libraries, which I could do without a problem. I then enabled Privacy Hero 2's relocation feature for the aforementioned streaming platforms while keeping the initial connection on a UK server, where I faced several challenges. At first, I had no success -- only my UK library was available. I powered down the TV, Sky satellite TV box, ISP-issued router, and Privacy Hero 2 and waited for everything to reboot.I then tried to access US streaming service libraries on Disney+, Netflix, and Crunchyroll. Despite the relocation options, this didn't work directly through the Samsung TV's Tizen hub when the UK was set as the central server. However, it worked for Netflix and Disney+ when I tested three US-based servers instead with relocation enabled.Accessing these libraries through a third-party app, in this case, Sky, worked best on my TV for Netflix and Disney+. When I chose this route, it didn't matter what country my initial connection was set to.Also: The best live TV streaming services of 2025: Expert testedWhen I tested Netflix and Disney+ on my laptop, I could access US libraries without issues. (I received a login email from Netflix confirming that an account was being used in the US; the relocation function was working correctly.) Unfortunately, Crunchyroll did not work on my smart TV, but I could access its US library on my laptop. Screenshot by Charlie Osborne/ZDNETI also attempted to access Canadian libraries and had similar levels of success. Accessing different geo-blocked libraries for testing purposes was more successful than I expected, although you may have to try different configurations.Lastly, I performed a speed test while connected to Privacy Hero 2 compared to my typical ISP router connection. I experienced a download speed loss of around 16% and an upload speed loss of 6.6%. For a VPN, I can't complain. About those ads...While a VPN's streaming capabilities are pretty popular, another feature many VPN providers offer is ad blocking.Ad blocking can be as much of a cat-and-mouse game as streaming services blocking VPN IP addresses. YouTube, for example, has declared war on third-party ad blockers and is attempting to stop viewers from being able to bypass or skip ad breaks.I didn't expect much, considering that most of the time, when I use a VPN and watch a YouTube video, there's very little difference in how many ads are displayed vs. when I use a standard Wi-Fi connection. However, I was pleasantly surprised at my final router and server setup results.I tested my setup using a cooking channel I'm subscribed to; while I love its content, the frequency of commercial interruptions makes it almost unwatchable.Also:Is your live TV streaming service still worth it? I reassessed the options for us bothOn a standard laptop connection, while connected to the default UK VPN server, the first ad on videos and a handful of ads were displayed, but fewer than usual. I compared watching the same YouTube video on my smart TV with Privacy Hero 2, with the same results. I then decided to try changing the router's initial server to a country where YouTube doesn't monetize ads. Lo and behold, all of the ad breaks within the video were disabled.I use an ancient MacBook Air to watch YouTube or to listen to audiobooks at night, and there's nothing worse than an ad break startling you awake. To ensure this wasn't a fluke, I changed this laptop's Wi-Fi connection to Privacy Hero 2, and the result was the same: no ads.There is a caveat: Speeds were impacted, so depending on what server you select and the speed of your initial broadband connection, you might be trading buffering for an ad-free experience.ZDNET's buying adviceRegarding the physical design of the Privacy Hero 2, the company should improve the build quality and be more generous with the Ethernet cable's length. However, installation is easy and user-friendly. This VPN router is the best I've tried to date, and it will be a long-term fixture in my household.I have previously installed VPNs on third-party, supporting routers, but the Privacy Hero 2 is far less complicated to set up and requires very little technical knowledge. The dashboard is easy to navigate and keeps technical jargon to a minimum.Also: Best TVs of CES 2025: Samsung, LG, and other new models that made our jaws dropIf you want to change the initial server connection, you'll need to work out the OpenVPN configuration file names. I would like to see NordVPN provide a streamlined list of servers that identifies which server belongs to which country. A dropdown list right in the dashboard would be useful. My favorite feature is the streaming location option. While many streaming channels are currently limited to the UK, US, and Canada (something I would like to see expanded where possible), toggling between them without finding servers yourself is highly convenient.If you want to try out the Privacy Hero 2, you can buy it from Flashrouters for $199. You'll receive a free one-year NordVPN subscription with your purchase.SpecificationsVPN protocols: WireguardWi-Fi standard: Wi-Fi 6 - Wireless AXWireless speed: 3000MbpsWi-Fi bands: Dual BandEthernet port: Type 4 GigabitAntenna type: 4 ExternalProcessor: MediaTekProcessor speed: 1.3GHzRAM: 512 MB / 128 MBPower supply: 100-240VAlong with Wireguard, this router also supportsNordLynx, which combines Wireguard with NordVPN security features. Why use a VPN to stream? VPNs can be used to watch your favorite content on platforms, including Amazon Prime, Disney+, Hulu, and Netflix.Setting a VPN to your home region while you're traveling, for example, may allow you to access your favorite shows in your standard library. However, some users also use VPNs to try and access films and TV shows only available in other countries. You do this by setting your VPN to a server in the target country.I tried to access streaming libraries locked to the US and Canada via Privacy Hero 2 routing below for testing purposes only. You should keep in mind that accessing libraries outside of your home region is a legally gray area and may break your streaming service provider's terms and conditions. Furthermore, stopping these activities is a constant cat-and-mouse game between VPN providers and content platforms, and so a method that worked last week may not work tomorrow. Show more Featured reviews

BlackJack3D/Getty ImagesVirtual private networks are no longer just for tech enthusiasts and privacy buffs -- they've become an essential tool for navigating a more restricted internet. VPNs offer a lifeline to digital freedom and security, from bypassing censorship to securing data from prying eyes. In the US, legislation in several states has blocked adult websites orplacedthem behind strict age gates. Regional policies limit access to various types of content, including streaming services and political materials. As more sites and services become geographically restricted, more individuals are using VPNs to bypass these blocks, protect their digital freedoms, and safeguard their data. Beyond unblocking adult websites or region-locked media, many users worry about government surveillance, data retention laws, and the sale of personal browsing data by ISPs. A VPN addresses these privacy risks by encrypting your traffic and masking your IP address. However, a VPN alone may not provide a comprehensive solution for network security or privacy concerns. To truly safeguard your data and enhance network privacy, combining a VPN with robust protocols like WireGuard and integrating them into advanced hardware setups (such as Firewalla and others mentioned below) can make a significant difference. Also: How AI will transform cybersecurity in 2025 - and supercharge cybercrimeThis guide outlines how to pair the open-source WireGuard protocol with Proton VPN, a Swiss-based provider celebrated for its strong privacy policies, and to integrate them into router-based setups for entire-network coverage. I'll also explore advanced techniques like policy-based routing, IP passthrough, zero-trust segmentation, and even building your firewall router on Linux or FreeBSD. Understanding VPN protocols and WireGuard Many commercial VPNs (ExpressVPN, NordVPN, etc.) rely on proprietary protocols that often lock users into specific apps. For example, NordVPN'sNordLynx protocol is based on WireGuard but deviates from the standard implementation. It does not use standard WireGuard .conf files for direct use on routers. Instead, NordVPN (and ExpressVPN) employs the older OpenVPN protocol for router configurations, which is less performant and more complex to set up. In contrast, WireGuard provides a refreshing alternative with an open-source design, a tight codebase (4,000 lines total), and notably high performance. Its modern cryptographic methods and lean architecture result in lower latency and faster speeds than legacy protocols like OpenVPN or IPSec, making it an excellent fit for bypassing region locks, streaming content, or engaging in latency-sensitive tasks like gaming. Example of a simple WireGuard configuration (.conf) file created by Proton VPN's download portal. Screenshot by Jason Perlow/ZDNETWireGuard's key management is also straightforward and highly efficient. Each peer -- whether a router, laptop, or smartphone -- is assigned a public/private key pair, eliminating the need to manage complex certificates. This simplified design reduces the overall attack surface and eases auditing, as fewer lines of code typically mean fewer potential vulnerabilities. Notably, you can install WireGuard on a router (rather than on each device in your network), allowing all network traffic to pass through the secure tunnel without managing separate VPN clients or profiles on individual computers or mobile devices. This router-based approach is especially valuable for environments where multiple devices -- from personal laptops to IoT gadgets -- must be secured, as it centralizes the VPN configuration and simplifies network-wide encryption. Legal and ethical disclaimer Using VPNs to bypass regional blocks or consume restricted content may be unlawful in certain jurisdictions. VPNs bolster privacy but do not guarantee total anonymity. If you evade local laws concerning adult content, abortion information, or other regulated material, understand there may be legal consequences. Always research your VPN provider's logging policies -- some free solutions log user data or inject malware, compromising rather than enhancing user privacy. WireGuard VPN providers Although this article primarily showcases Proton VPN for its transparent WireGuard .conf files (no proprietary lock-in), strong no-log policy, and free vs. paid plan structure, many other reputable VPN providers offer WireGuard configuration files for router-based setups. These include: Mullvad An independent, Swedish-based VPN service run by Mullvad VPN AB. Mullvad is praised for its no-email registration, strict no-logs policy, and the option to pay anonymously in cash or cryptocurrency.CyberGhost Part of Kape Technologies, which owns ExpressVPN, Private Internet Access (PIA), and ZenMate. CyberGhost is known for specialized servers (streaming, torrenting) and user-friendly apps.Private Internet Access (PIA) Another Kape Technologies brand, recognized for its large server network, advanced configurations like split tunneling, and its built-in ad/malware blocker ("PIA MACE").Surfshark Now under the Nord Security umbrella (following a 2022 merger), Surfshark is popular for unlimited device connections, ad/malware blocking ("CleanWeb"), and relatively budget-friendly pricing.Many of these services let you select a server in their portal or app and generate a .conf file for WireGuard, which you can then import into your router. The basic steps -- choosing a region, downloading the configuration, and applying it -- are similar to those we'll follow with Proton VPN below. Why Proton VPN? Proton VPN was founded in 2017 by the team behind Proton Mail, the world's largest secure email service. Operated under the Swiss-based, non-profitProton Foundation, Proton VPN prioritizes user privacy over profit-driven motives, similar to theSignalmessaging service. Its structure ensures that no shareholders or external investors influence its mission, maintaining a focus on privacy and security.Proton generates revenue through paid subscription plans to sustain its services, but it remains a not-for-profit organization governed by the Proton Foundation. This unique approach allows Proton to regularly publish transparency reports, invest in independent security research, and avoid corporate ownership by large VPN conglomerates. Proton VPN is a compelling choice for users seeking privacy-first, router-friendly configurations. Even on the free tier, Proton VPN delivers reliable and fast connections. Its focus on privacy extends to its router-friendly WireGuard configurations, which are transparent and free of proprietary lock-in. Proton VPN's tiered Free and Paid plans cater to a broad range of needs.PlanFreePaidServer Locations 35 countries (limited) 110 countries (city-level selection) Speed Decent, not guaranteed Often near max ISP speeds, priority servers Advanced Features Basic NetShield (ad block) Full NetShield, multi-hop, Secure Core Devices 1 device 10+ devices (tier-dependent) Performance ~5070% of ISP bandwidth Potentially close to full ISP bandwidth Step-by-Step: Using WireGuard on Proton VPN Step 1: Create a Proton VPN account Visit ProtonVPN.com and click Get Proton VPN Free.Choose a Free or Paid plan, depending on your needs.Verify your account via email.Log in to your Proton VPN dashboard once your account is confirmed. Proton VPN's download portal. Jason Perlow/ZDNET Step 2: Generate your WireGuard configuration Go to Downloads (or the WireGuard Configuration section) in your Proton VPN dashboard.Enter a descriptive name for your configuration in the "Device/certificate name" field, such as "ZDNET Test Router."Choose Router (or whichever platform you're setting up).Configure NetShield (ad/malware blocker) by selecting the desired filter level, or leave it off if you prefer.(Optional) Enable NAT/PMP (for port forwarding) or Moderate NAT based on your networking needs.(Optional) Check "VPN Accelerator" to improve speeds, if supported.Pick a standard server or region. Proton VPN may also auto-select the best server based on load.Click Create (or "Download") to generate and save the .conf file. Many WireGuard-compatible routers, such as the Firewalla Purple and Gold series, allow direct import of WireGuard .conf files generated by services such as Proton VPN. Screenshot by Jason Perlow/ZDNET Step 3: Configure your router Log in to your router's admin interface (commonly accessed via 192.168.x.x).Navigate to the VPN / WireGuard settings section.Import or Paste the Proton VPN .conf file you downloaded. Some routers let you upload the file directly; others might require copying the keys, peer settings, and endpoint details manually.Save your changes and enable the WireGuard interface or tunnel. Step 4: Enable IP Passthrough or Bridge Mode (if needed) If your ISP modem also acts as a router (e.g., AT&T BGW-320, Arris, etc.), you risk double NAT (Network Address Translation) unless you enable "Bridge Mode" or "IP Passthrough." This configuration ensures your custom router (Firewalla, OpenWRT, or another) receives a public IP directly, managing NAT independently. Access the ISP gateway's admin interface (often 192.168.1.254 or 192.168.0.1).Locate Bridge Mode or IP Passthrough in the advanced settings.Assign the MAC address of your router as the passthrough device.Save and reboot both devices. Step 5: Verify your connection Check your public IP at ipinfo.io. It should show Proton VPN's server location. Speedtest.net will also display your IP configuration.(Optional) Run a ping or traceroute to confirm stable routing.All traffic on your network should now traverse the WireGuard tunnel. Which routers support WireGuard? Many router manufacturers are adding native WireGuard support to their devices. Asus, Netgear, and Linksys regularly include WireGuard in their firmware updates, especially for mid-to-high-end models. Open-source firmware platforms like OpenWRT also offer extensive support, making them an excellent choice for advanced users. Other router options GL.iNet OpenWRT-based routers come pre-loaded with WireGuard, making them ideal travel VPN routers. OpenWRT One, developed by the Software Freedom Conservancy and Banana Pi, is a $89 dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router (available from Amazon fully assembled for US and EU power supplies) with full OpenWRT firmware. It features a 2.5GbE PoE WAN port, an M.2 slot for hardware add-ons, and a hardware switch to prevent bricking by toggling between NOR and NAND memory. Because it's standard OpenWRT, you can access thousands of packages (including WireGuard) and frequent security updates. Firewalla Purple and Gold series devices are widely praised for their simple configuration, high performance, and mobile app. Its newAP7 Wi-Fi 7 access pointallows zero-trust segmentation, meaning you can isolate IoT gadgets on separate networks to minimize the impact if one device is compromised. Firewalla routers also offer multiple VPN profiles, letting you fine-tune which devices or users tunnel through WireGuard. If you have enterprise-level or advanced requirements, consider a Firewalla Gold Pro, Ubiquiti Dream Machine, Mikrotik, OPNSense, or Netgate device for robust VLAN configurations, advanced QoS, and large-scale LAN deployments. Troubleshooting and FAQ Even with WireGuard's simplicity, a few issues may arise: Handshake failure: Check that your public/private keys match Proton VPN's settings. Ensure the router's clock is accurate, as major time differences break WireGuard's cryptographic handshake.DNS leaks: Your real location is exposed if DNS requests still go to your ISP. Update your router's DNS to Proton VPN's resolvers and validate at dnsleaktest.com.Policy-based routing: If you want to use the VPN only for specific devices or domains (e.g. streaming boxes that need local region access), explore split tunneling or "policy-based routing" in your router firmware (Firewalla, OpenWRT, OPNsense, etc.).Wi-Fi performance: Upgrading to Wi-Fi 7 or adding multiple access points can alleviate coverage gaps. However, your overall VPN speed also depends on your router's CPU speed for WireGuard encryption.General security tips: Stick to reputable VPNs like Proton VPN, avoid free apps, and keep firmware updated. Router-based VPN setups typically offer better consistency than phone-based VPN apps. Show more Advanced tips and security best practices Key rotation: Change your WireGuard keys periodically to reduce the chance of compromised credentials over time. Proton issues profiles that are valid for one year until a new profile import is required.Hardware constraints: Lower-power routers (~700 MHz single-core) might cap out at ~100 Mbps for WireGuard, while dual-core ARM or x86 at 1.4+ GHz CPUs on these devices can handle hundreds of Mbps or more. (Firewalla Gold Pro can handle 2Gbps WireGuard connections.)Kill switch/fail-closed: In advanced firewall OSes (pfSense, OPNsense), you can configure firewall rules that drop all traffic if the VPN goes down, preventing accidental leaks.Zero-trust segmentation: Isolate IoT or guest devices on separate SSIDs/VLANs. If a device is breached, attackers can't easily pivot across the rest of your network. Building your WireGuard-compatible firewall router on Linux or FreeBSD For advanced users, building a WireGuard-compatible firewall router using open-source platforms like Linux or FreeBSD offers near-limitless customization. Solutions such as OPNsense and pfSense (FreeBSD-based) or OpenWRT and IPFire (Linux-based) provide robust options for integrating WireGuard at the OS level. These platforms allow for refined firewall rules, VLAN management, bandwidth shaping, and multi-WAN failover. While setup requires more technical expertise and hardware compatibility considerations, the payoff is unmatched control over advanced routing and security features. Next steps After you've set up WireGuard on a router via Proton VPN: Explore multi-hop/secure core: Proton VPN's paid plans offer layered routing for heightened privacy.Check WAN failover: If your router supports dual WAN or cellular backup, set up automatic failover so your VPN reconnects if one link drops.Refine policy-based routing: Split tunneling allows selective encryption, perfect for devices that need local content or minimal latency (e.g. gaming consoles).Self-host WireGuard: Platforms like AWS Lightsail, Linode, or DigitalOcean let you build your own VPN server, cutting out third-party operators entirely.Intrusion detection: Tools like Suricata or Snort on OPNsense or pfSense can monitor and block suspicious traffic in real time. The increasing need for router-based VPNs Growing geoblocks, censorship laws, and privacy concerns have made VPNs indispensable for many users. WireGuard stands out with its speed, simplicity, and open-source ethos. Proton VPN offers a robust, privacy-centric VPN that's straightforward to deploy on a wide range of routers, including Firewalla's Gold Series/AP7 for zero-trust segmentation or OpenWRT One for budget-friendly Wi-Fi 6 performance. Also:How we test VPNs in 2025With proper planning, you can maintain the freedom to access geo-blocked content and the security to navigate the modern web safely. Security

by Beata Zawrzel/NurPhoto via Getty Images)Note:This article was originally published in January 2017. It has been updated multiple times since then to reflect the most current information. The most recent update was on January 18, 2025.When Microsoft released Windows 10 in 2015, it offered the new operating system as a free, no-strings-attached upgrade for anyone still running a supported, fully activated previous version of Windows. That offer was only supposed to last for one year, but Microsoft quietly kept its activation servers running for more than eight years, granting free digital licenses to Windows 10 on hardware originally licensed for use with Windows 7 and Windows 8.1.That loophole officially closed on September 20, 2023, when Microsoft posted an inconspicuous announcement on a website for its hardware partners. (For details, see"It's official: No more free Windows 10 upgrades".)Also: Is Windows 10 too popular for its own good?Since that announcement, I've heard from multiple readers who tried to upgrade their Windows 7 and Windows 8.x systems and discovered they were not properly activated after the Windows 10 installer completed its work. (Systems that were previously activated still continue to work properly, though.) Surprisingly, I've also heard from a handful of correspondents who have been successful in activating their PCs after upgrading an old Windows version to Windows 10.I'm not surprised by those sporadic reports of success. Microsoft's activation servers work in mysterious ways, and they're often generous in terms of granting digital licenses even when an installation doesn't follow the letter of the licensing rules. Given that uncertainty, there's probably no harm in trying to upgrade an old PC to Windows 10, as long as you're prepared to deal with activation issues.But does it make sense to even try?Those upgrades made perfect sense in 2020, when people were pulling old PCs off the shelf to adjust to the new pandemic-era work-at-home mandates. Those old computers might have been more mature than a shiny new device, but they were perfectly capable of performing common business tasks and had at least five years of support ahead of them.Also: Can your old PC handle the Windows 11 upgrade? How to find out - before you tryToday, the situation is completely different. Any computer that was originally licensed to run Windows 8.x is at least nine years old, and a PC that was built for Windows 7 is probably 12 years old or more. In technological terms, those devices are dinosaurs, and even a dirt-cheap modern PC will run rings around them.More importantly, even if you are able to complete that upgrade, you have months, not years, of support ahead of you. Windows 10 reaches its end-of-life date on October 14, 2025. You can pay $30 to receive updates for an extra year, but that's the absolute end of the line, unless you can override Microsoft's strict compatibility requirements and upgrade that PC from Windows 10 to Windows 11. But that opens up a whole new can of worms.On the other hand, if you really love that old PC and can't bear to say goodbye, well, read on.Upgrades still work, but activation probably won'tMost hardware that originally shipped with Windows 7 or Windows 8.x is perfectly capable of running Windows 10. Under most circumstances, the upgrade succeeds, even if the system fails the activation check at the end. You can still install apps, play games, run productivity software, and install security updates on a PC running an unactivated copy of Windows 10; you won't be able to personalize the Windows interface, though, and some optional updates won't be available.You'll also see a message in Settings and on the desktop warning that the system is not properly activated.Also:How to downgrade from Windows 11 to Windows 10 (there's a catch)You can complete activation and remove those restrictions by entering a valid Windows 10 product key for your edition (Home or Pro). Your old Windows 7/8.x product keys no longer work, unfortunately.In this post, I cover the basics of how to install Windows 10 as an upgrade on older hardware. I'll also talk about the licensing issues involved, which are (as always) confusing. And, of course, there's the looming end-of-support deadline for Windows 10. As of October 14, 2025, Microsoft will no longer offer updates to Windows 10 PCs unless you've paid for Extended Security Updates. (For details, see "If your Windows 10 PC can't be upgraded, you have 5 options before time runs out")Every technique I describe in this article works the same for Windows 11 as well, although most older PCs will be blocked from upgrading to Microsoft's newest operating system by the stringentWindows 11 hardware compatibility requirements. (It's possible to work around some of those restrictions, for hardware that's not too old.)How to upgrade an old PC to Windows 10If you have a PC running Windows 7/8/8.1 (Windows 7 Home, Pro, or Ultimate edition, or Windows 8.x Home or Business, properly licensed and activated), you can install Windows 10 as an upgrade.Before getting started, I recommend a few preliminary tasks that can head off potential problems:Confirm thatyour copy of Windows is activated. This is especially important if you recently reinstalled the original version of Windows in preparation for the upgrade.Check for any recent driver updates, especially for network and storage hardware.Download and install any available BIOS updates for your hardware; this step is especially important for systems that were originally designed in 2017 or earlier, when hardware makers were still shaking out issues with Windows 10.Back up your data files to an external hard drive or cloud storage (or both). Consider doing a full system backup to an external hard drive using the Windows 7 backup program, which is also available in Windows 8.x, Windows 10, and Windows 11. Just run the command Sdclt.exe, and then choose the "Create a system image" option.Temporarily uninstall third-party security software and low-level system software such as hard disk utilities that can interfere with the upgrade. You can reinstall those programs after the upgrade is complete.Finally, disconnect any unnecessary external devices, especially USB flash drives and external hard drives. (Several common installation errors can be traced to the Setup program being confused by these additional drives.) With those preliminaries out of the way, go to theDownload Windows 10webpage and click the "Download Now" button. After the download completes, double-click the executable file to run the Media Creation Tool. You can upgrade directly using this tool, or create separate media. Screenshot by Ed Bott/ZDNET If you've downloaded the Media Creation Tool on the machine you plan to upgrade, and you plan to upgrade that PC and only that PC, you can choose "Upgrade this PC now." That option installs the most recent version of Windows 10. It typically takes about an hour, depending on your hardware. (Having an SSD as your system drive is the best way to speed up the process.)Also: You can still upgrade old PCs to Windows 11, even if Microsoft says no: Readers prove itIf you know you'll want to install Windows 10 (as an upgrade or as a clean install) on more than one PC, or if you just want more flexibility in the event that the instant upgrade fails, choose the second option and save the installation files to a USB drive or as an ISO file. The download takes a little time, but when it's complete, you can run the Windows Setup program manually to install Windows 10 on any PC running any supported Windows version. (Sorry, this won't work with PCs running Windows Vista or Windows XP, but those PCs are probably so old that you'll encounter other issues anyway and maybe you should consider retiring them.)The exact steps depend on which download option you chose:USB flash drive: Insert the USB flash drive you just created into a free USB slot on the PC you want to upgrade. Then open File Explorer (Windows Explorer in Windows 7) and double-click Setup to install Windows 10. Note that youcannotboot from the newly created USB drive or DVD to perform an upgrade to Windows 10. You must run the Windows 10 setup program from your currently installed and activated copy of Windows.ISO file: After the download is complete, you'll need to mount the ISO file and open it in a Windows Explorer/File Explorer window. On a PC running Windows 8.1 or Windows 10, you can double-click the ISO file to open it in File Explorer as a virtual drive. On a PC running Windows 7, you'll need to install a third-party utility, such as the free, open-sourceWinCDEmu. After mounting the ISO file, double-click Setup to start the install process.Then, just follow the prompts to complete the upgrade to Windows 10. You will not be asked for a product key during the upgrade process. When the upgrade is complete and you've connected to the internet, all your apps and data files will be available. To check the system's activation status, go to Settings > Update & security > Activation. If you're lucky, you'll have a digital license that is valid for the most recent Windows 10 version. More likely, you'll see a message telling you Windows isn't activated and asking you to enter a valid product key.A Windows 10 digital license is associated with a specific device, which means you can reformat the disk and perform a clean installation of the same edition of Windows 10 anytime. (If you're thinking of upgrading your old system drive to an SSD, I recommend you perform the upgrade to Windows 10 on the old hardware; after confirming that the new Windows 10 version is properly activated, install the SSD and then either restore from a backup image or boot from the USB flash drive to do a clean install. You won't need a product key, and activation is automatic.)Is your license valid?And now the big question: if you successfully upgrade an old PC to Windows 10, is the resulting license valid?The entire "free upgrade" offer was always accompanied by language that was, to put it politely, a bit squishy. And the language around the end of that offer was similarly vague. For example, see the answers I've highlighted here on Microsoft'sWindows 10 Upgrade FAQ: The wording here is remarkably vague. Screenshot by Ed Bott/ZDNET That's very odd language. The free upgradethrough the Get Windows 10 appended on July 29, 2016. Likewise, the discussion of product keys says a key will be necessary "for this tool to work" (not true), but it doesn't say a word about licensing.And unlike the weaselly "Genuine Windows" label on older upgrades, the activation screens for a Windows 10 upgrade specifically confirm the existence of a "digital license."Of course, I'm not a lawyer, and this column isn't legal advice. But I will say that I am personally confident in the activation status of any PC that upgraded to Windows 10 and was granted a digital license using the Media Creation Tool.So why did Microsoft keep making these free upgrades available even after the original offer had officially expired? That was, I think, a very obvious nod and a wink, designed to make it easy for those who wanted a Windows 10 upgrade to still get it while placating the OEM partners who were none too happy about Microsoft's emphasis on upgrades rather than new PC sales during the original upgrade offer.I continue to hear from readers sharing their experiences. If you've used this technique on a PC, send a note to edbott (at) realworldwindows (dot) com and let me know how it went for you.Featured

Mihaela Rosu/Getty ImagesOn October 14, 2025, Microsoft will stop delivering security updates to your Windows 10 PC unless you're willing to pay an exorbitant price to join the Extended Security Updates program.If you try to upgrade to Windows 11 on a PCthat's more than a few years old, you'll be told -- in no uncertain terms -- that your old PC doesn't qualify because its CPU isn't on the official list of compatible processors. Microsoft has made it abundantly clear that it will not revise those requirements. You will also hit roadblocks if your PC doesn't have a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0.Also: Can your old PC handle the Windows 11 upgrade? How to find out - before you tryThat might be the official policy, but -- as with everything Windows-related -- it pays to read the fine print. Those pesky restrictions prevent you from automatically upgrading to Windows 11 using Windows Update or the Windows 11 Installation Assistant. Yet there are fully supported workarounds for most PCs that are capable of running Windows 10, as I document inZDNET's Windows 11 FAQ.Over the past year or so, Microsoft has played a cat-and-mouse game with enthusiasts, adding occasional speed bumps that make it more difficult to bypass these compatibility checks. There are workarounds for most modern PCs, but some older devices, especially those built using AMD processors, might be out of luck. The instructions in this post take all those developments into account. Also:You can still upgrade old PCs to Windows 11, even if Microsoft says no: Readers prove itOf course, everything in this article requires that you be signed in as an administrator on the PC you want to upgrade.Which option should you choose?Please don't skip over this section.This article describes two upgrade options.To take advantage of the workaround described in option 1 below, your computer must meet all the other requirements for Windows 11.It must be configured to start up using UEFI, not a legacy BIOS configuration.Secure Boot must be supported, although it does not need to be enabled. (But seriously, folks, you should enable it.)A TPM must be enabled; version 1.2 is OK, but a system without any TPM or with the TPM disabled will fail.Also:Microsoft will start charging for Windows 10 updates next year. Here's how muchTo check these details on a PC you're considering upgrading, run the System Information utility, Msinfo32.exe, and look at the System Summary page. Pay special attention to the BIOS Mode value. If it says "Legacy," you'll need to reconfigure your system to UEFI mode (and convert your system disk from MBR to GPT partitioning) before you can install Windows 11 as a normal upgrade.To see whether your PC has a TPM enabled, run the Trusted Platform Module Management tool, Tpm.msc. If your computer includes a TPM and it's turned on, this app will display information about it. If there's no TPM, or if the TPM is disabled in firmware settings, you'll see a message that says "Compatible TPM cannot be found."If you're unable (or unwilling) to change from Legacy BIOS to UEFI, or if you have an older PC that doesn't have a TPM option at all, you'll need to use the second option, which takes advantage of an undocumented hack that allows you to bypass the compatibility checks and complete the upgrade. Skip to the "Option 2" section of this post for details on how to use the free Rufus utility to perform this upgrade.Note that a new set of restrictions, introduced as part of the Windows 11, version 24H2 update, require a CPU that supports specific instructions -- SSE4.2 and PopCnt. Most PCs with Intel CPUs that are from 2009 or later will meet this standard. AMD CPUs from 2013 or later should also meet these requirements. For details, see"Microsoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This trusty tool can (probably) fix that."Also:Your Windows 10 PC can't be upgraded? You have 5 options before support ends in 2025If you plan to perform a clean installation of Windows 11, you can boot from installation media and run Windows Setup. That option skips the CPU compatibility check completely (but still requires a TPM and Secure Boot support). After the installation completes, you'll need to reinstall all your apps, restore your data files, and tweak settings to personalize your system preferences.Want to avoid all that hassle? Choose the option that's appropriate for your hardware.Option 1: Use this simple registry editBypass CPU checks and accept any TPM version with this registry edit. Please be aware that this option requires that you run the Setup program from within your current Windows installation. You can't boot from a USB flash drive and install Windows 11 this way.This process requires four steps. 1. Change one key in the Windows registry You need to make one small change to the Windows registry, as documented in thisMicrosoft support document. This change tells the Windows 11 Setup program to skip the check for compatible CPUs and to allow installation on a PC with an older TPM (version 1.2). The usual warnings apply when working with the registry; I recommend you make a complete backup before proceeding.Open Registry Editor (Regedit.exe) and navigate to the following key:HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\Setup\MoSetupIf the MoSetup key, doesn't exist, you need to create it. Right-click the node for HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\Setup in the left-hand navigation pane, then choose New > Key. Name it MoSetup and press Enter.Also: Wiping your Windows laptop? Here's the simplest way to erase all personal dataSelect the MoSetup key and then right-click in any empty space in the pane on the right. Choose the option to create a new DWORD value. (Don't choose the QWORD option!)Replace the default name for that key by typing the text AllowUpgradesWithUnsupportedTPMOrCPU and then press Enter. Then double-click the new value and change the "Value data" box to 1. The result should look like this: Show more Use this registry tweak to override the Windows 11 CPU compatibility check. You must have a TPM (any version) and Secure Boot must be enabled. Screenshot by Ed Bott/ZDNETClick OK to save your change, and then restart your PC. 2. Download the Windows 11 ISO On the PC you want to upgrade, go to the Windows 11 Download page (aka.ms/DownloadWindows11) and choose the option at the bottom of the page, "Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO) for x64 devices." Save the ISO file in your Downloads folder.Note that this is a big file. Depending on the speed of your internet connection, the download could take a while. Show more 3. Mount the ISO file in File Explorer After the download completes, open File Explorer and double-click the ISO file you downloaded in the previous step. Doing so mounts the file as a virtual DVD drive in its own folder, with its own drive letter. Show more 4. Run Windows Setup In File Explorer, find the Setup.exe file and double-click it to begin the upgrade. You'll see a stern warning about compatibility issues, but you can safely click Accept to move past it. (For details on what that warning message really means, see "Is Microsoft really going to cut off security updates for your 'unsupported' Windows 11 PC?") After you click OK on that dialog box, your upgrade should proceed without any serious issues.If you're upgrading from the same edition (Home or Pro), you'll have three options: You can keep your apps, settings, and files (Full Upgrade); keep your data files but start fresh with apps and settings (Keep Data Only); or start completely fresh (Clean Install). Show more Option 2: Use the free Rufus utilityOn older PCs without a TPM and on PCs that don't support Secure Boot, you'll need to use an undocumented hack to bypass the compatibility checker. You can do this manually by replacing the Appraiserres.dll file (in the Sources subfolder on the Windows 11 installer drive) with a zero-byte version and then making a series of registry edits. But it's simpler to use the free, open-source Rufus utility to make a USB drive that includes this file.To get started, download Rufus version 4.6 or later. (Earlier versions won't work, thanks tochanges Microsoft made in October 2024to its compatibility checking tools. For details of how the newer versions work, see "Microsoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This just-released tool can get the job done.") In addition, be aware that using Rufus will not allow you to bypass the new CPU restrictions that require SSE4.2 and PopCnt instruction support.Also: Why Windows 11 requires a TPM - and how to get around thatTo get started, you'll need to download the Windows 11 ISO and supply a USB flash drive of at least 16 GB in size. You will reformat this drive as part of the process, so back up any data on that drive first.Download Rufus from the developer's siteorfrom the Microsoft Storeand run the app. Choose the USB drive and then choose the "Disk or ISO image" option.Click the Select button, choose the Windows 11 ISO you downloaded earlier, and then click Start.In the Windows User Experience dialog, select the first checkbox to remove hardware requirements, as shown in the screenshot below.Click OK to begin creating the drive. Be sure to choose the top checkbox here to bypass the compatibility check for the Windows 11 upgrade. Screenshot by Ed Bott/ZDNETAfter Rufus successfully creates your installer, open that USB drive in File Explorer, and double-click Setup. Do not try to upgrade by booting from that USB drive and performing a clean install; it won't work.)As is the case with the other option, you'll see a warning about compatibility issues. It's a scare tactic. (For details on what that warning message really means, see"Is Microsoft really going to cut off security updates for your 'unsupported' Windows 11 PC?") After you click Accept on that dialog box, your upgrade should proceed without any serious issues.Also:Microsoft blocked your Windows 11 upgrade? This trusty tool can (probably) fix thatMy ZDNET colleague Lance Whitney has more details on the other options available with Rufus in "How to install Windows 11 the way you want (and bypass Microsoft's restrictions)." If you've tried this upgrade, I want to hear about your experience. If it worked, please share the details. If you run into snags, send me an email so we can figure out what's going wrong. Be sure to include details -- the make and model of your PC and screenshots of any error messages. I've set up a special inbox just for this feedback: Win11Upgrade [at] realworldwindows.com.This article was originally published on April 9, 2022, but has been updated multiple times since then. It was last updated on January 18, 2025.Windows

BlackJack3D/Getty ImagesVirtual private networks are no longer just for tech enthusiasts and privacy buffs -- they've become an essential tool for navigating a more restricted internet. VPNs offer a lifeline to digital freedom and security, from bypassing censorship to securing data from prying eyes. In the US, legislation in several states has blocked adult websites orplacedthem behind strict age gates. Regional policies limit access to various types of content, including streaming services and political materials. As more sites and services become geographically restricted, more individuals are using VPNs to bypass these blocks, protect their digital freedoms, and safeguard their data. Beyond unblocking adult websites or region-locked media, many users worry about government surveillance, data retention laws, and the sale of personal browsing data by ISPs. A VPN addresses these privacy risks by encrypting your traffic and masking your IP address. However, a VPN alone may not provide a comprehensive solution for network security or privacy concerns. To truly safeguard your data and enhance network privacy, combining a VPN with robust protocols like WireGuard and integrating them into advanced hardware setups (such as Firewalla and others mentioned below) can make a significant difference. Also: How AI will transform cybersecurity in 2025 - and supercharge cybercrimeThis guide outlines how to pair the open-source WireGuard protocol with Proton VPN, a Swiss-based provider celebrated for its strong privacy policies, and to integrate them into router-based setups for entire-network coverage. I'll also explore advanced techniques like policy-based routing, IP passthrough, zero-trust segmentation, and even building your firewall router on Linux or FreeBSD. Understanding VPN protocols and WireGuard Many commercial VPNs (ExpressVPN, NordVPN, etc.) rely on proprietary protocols that often lock users into specific apps. For example, NordVPN'sNordLynx protocol is based on WireGuard but deviates from the standard implementation. It does not use standard WireGuard .conf files for direct use on routers. Instead, NordVPN (and ExpressVPN) employs the older OpenVPN protocol for router configurations, which is less performant and more complex to set up. In contrast, WireGuard provides a refreshing alternative with an open-source design, a tight codebase (4,000 lines total), and notably high performance. Its modern cryptographic methods and lean architecture result in lower latency and faster speeds than legacy protocols like OpenVPN or IPSec, making it an excellent fit for bypassing region locks, streaming content, or engaging in latency-sensitive tasks like gaming. Example of a simple WireGuard configuration (.conf) file created by Proton VPN's download portal. Screenshot by Jason Perlow/ZDNETWireGuard's key management is also straightforward and highly efficient. Each peer -- whether a router, laptop, or smartphone -- is assigned a public/private key pair, eliminating the need to manage complex certificates. This simplified design reduces the overall attack surface and eases auditing, as fewer lines of code typically mean fewer potential vulnerabilities. Notably, you can install WireGuard on a router (rather than on each device in your network), allowing all network traffic to pass through the secure tunnel without managing separate VPN clients or profiles on individual computers or mobile devices. This router-based approach is especially valuable for environments where multiple devices -- from personal laptops to IoT gadgets -- must be secured, as it centralizes the VPN configuration and simplifies network-wide encryption. Legal and ethical disclaimer Using VPNs to bypass regional blocks or consume restricted content may be unlawful in certain jurisdictions. VPNs bolster privacy but do not guarantee total anonymity. If you evade local laws concerning adult content, abortion information, or other regulated material, understand there may be legal consequences. Always research your VPN provider's logging policies -- some free solutions log user data or inject malware, compromising rather than enhancing user privacy. WireGuard VPN providers Although this article primarily showcases Proton VPN for its transparent WireGuard .conf files (no proprietary lock-in), strong no-log policy, and free vs. paid plan structure, many other reputable VPN providers offer WireGuard configuration files for router-based setups. These include: Mullvad An independent, Swedish-based VPN service run by Mullvad VPN AB. Mullvad is praised for its no-email registration, strict no-logs policy, and the option to pay anonymously in cash or cryptocurrency.CyberGhost Part of Kape Technologies, which owns ExpressVPN, Private Internet Access (PIA), and ZenMate. CyberGhost is known for specialized servers (streaming, torrenting) and user-friendly apps.Private Internet Access (PIA) Another Kape Technologies brand, recognized for its large server network, advanced configurations like split tunneling, and its built-in ad/malware blocker ("PIA MACE").Surfshark Now under the Nord Security umbrella (following a 2022 merger), Surfshark is popular for unlimited device connections, ad/malware blocking ("CleanWeb"), and relatively budget-friendly pricing.Many of these services let you select a server in their portal or app and generate a .conf file for WireGuard, which you can then import into your router. The basic steps -- choosing a region, downloading the configuration, and applying it -- are similar to those we'll follow with Proton VPN below. Why Proton VPN? Proton VPN was founded in 2017 by the team behind Proton Mail, the world's largest secure email service. Operated under the Swiss-based, non-profitProton Foundation, Proton VPN prioritizes user privacy over profit-driven motives, similar to theSignalmessaging service. Its structure ensures that no shareholders or external investors influence its mission, maintaining a focus on privacy and security.Proton generates revenue through paid subscription plans to sustain its services, but it remains a not-for-profit organization governed by the Proton Foundation. This unique approach allows Proton to regularly publish transparency reports, invest in independent security research, and avoid corporate ownership by large VPN conglomerates. Proton VPN is a compelling choice for users seeking privacy-first, router-friendly configurations. Even on the free tier, Proton VPN delivers reliable and fast connections. Its focus on privacy extends to its router-friendly WireGuard configurations, which are transparent and free of proprietary lock-in. Proton VPN's tiered Free and Paid plans cater to a broad range of needs.PlanFreePaidServer Locations 35 countries (limited) 110 countries (city-level selection) Speed Decent, not guaranteed Often near max ISP speeds, priority servers Advanced Features Basic NetShield (ad block) Full NetShield, multi-hop, Secure Core Devices 1 device 10+ devices (tier-dependent) Performance ~5070% of ISP bandwidth Potentially close to full ISP bandwidth Step-by-Step: Using WireGuard on Proton VPN Step 1: Create a Proton VPN account Visit ProtonVPN.com and click Get Proton VPN Free.Choose a Free or Paid plan, depending on your needs.Verify your account via email.Log in to your Proton VPN dashboard once your account is confirmed. Proton VPN's download portal. Jason Perlow/ZDNET Step 2: Generate your WireGuard configuration Go to Downloads (or the WireGuard Configuration section) in your Proton VPN dashboard.Enter a descriptive name for your configuration in the "Device/certificate name" field, such as "ZDNET Test Router."Choose Router (or whichever platform you're setting up).Configure NetShield (ad/malware blocker) by selecting the desired filter level, or leave it off if you prefer.(Optional) Enable NAT/PMP (for port forwarding) or Moderate NAT based on your networking needs.(Optional) Check "VPN Accelerator" to improve speeds, if supported.Pick a standard server or region. Proton VPN may also auto-select the best server based on load.Click Create (or "Download") to generate and save the .conf file. Many WireGuard-compatible routers, such as the Firewalla Purple and Gold series, allow direct import of WireGuard .conf files generated by services such as Proton VPN. Screenshot by Jason Perlow/ZDNET Step 3: Configure your router Log in to your router's admin interface (commonly accessed via 192.168.x.x).Navigate to the VPN / WireGuard settings section.Import or Paste the Proton VPN .conf file you downloaded. Some routers let you upload the file directly; others might require copying the keys, peer settings, and endpoint details manually.Save your changes and enable the WireGuard interface or tunnel. Step 4: Enable IP Passthrough or Bridge Mode (if needed) If your ISP modem also acts as a router (e.g., AT&T BGW-320, Arris, etc.), you risk double NAT (Network Address Translation) unless you enable "Bridge Mode" or "IP Passthrough." This configuration ensures your custom router (Firewalla, OpenWRT, or another) receives a public IP directly, managing NAT independently. Access the ISP gateway's admin interface (often 192.168.1.254 or 192.168.0.1).Locate Bridge Mode or IP Passthrough in the advanced settings.Assign the MAC address of your router as the passthrough device.Save and reboot both devices. Step 5: Verify your connection Check your public IP at ipinfo.io. It should show Proton VPN's server location. Speedtest.net will also display your IP configuration.(Optional) Run a ping or traceroute to confirm stable routing.All traffic on your network should now traverse the WireGuard tunnel. Which routers support WireGuard? Many router manufacturers are adding native WireGuard support to their devices. Asus, Netgear, and Linksys regularly include WireGuard in their firmware updates, especially for mid-to-high-end models. Open-source firmware platforms like OpenWRT also offer extensive support, making them an excellent choice for advanced users. Other router options GL.iNet OpenWRT-based routers come pre-loaded with WireGuard, making them ideal travel VPN routers. OpenWRT One, developed by the Software Freedom Conservancy and Banana Pi, is a $89 dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router (available from Amazon fully assembled for US and EU power supplies) with full OpenWRT firmware. It features a 2.5GbE PoE WAN port, an M.2 slot for hardware add-ons, and a hardware switch to prevent bricking by toggling between NOR and NAND memory. Because it's standard OpenWRT, you can access thousands of packages (including WireGuard) and frequent security updates. Firewalla Purple and Gold series devices are widely praised for their simple configuration, high performance, and mobile app. Its newAP7 Wi-Fi 7 access pointallows zero-trust segmentation, meaning you can isolate IoT gadgets on separate networks to minimize the impact if one device is compromised. Firewalla routers also offer multiple VPN profiles, letting you fine-tune which devices or users tunnel through WireGuard. If you have enterprise-level or advanced requirements, consider a Firewalla Gold Pro, Ubiquiti Dream Machine, Mikrotik, OPNSense, or Netgate device for robust VLAN configurations, advanced QoS, and large-scale LAN deployments. Troubleshooting and FAQ Even with WireGuard's simplicity, a few issues may arise: Handshake failure: Check that your public/private keys match Proton VPN's settings. Ensure the router's clock is accurate, as major time differences break WireGuard's cryptographic handshake.DNS leaks: Your real location is exposed if DNS requests still go to your ISP. Update your router's DNS to Proton VPN's resolvers and validate at dnsleaktest.com.Policy-based routing: If you want to use the VPN only for specific devices or domains (e.g. streaming boxes that need local region access), explore split tunneling or "policy-based routing" in your router firmware (Firewalla, OpenWRT, OPNsense, etc.).Wi-Fi performance: Upgrading to Wi-Fi 7 or adding multiple access points can alleviate coverage gaps. However, your overall VPN speed also depends on your router's CPU speed for WireGuard encryption.General security tips: Stick to reputable VPNs like Proton VPN, avoid free apps, and keep firmware updated. Router-based VPN setups typically offer better consistency than phone-based VPN apps. Show more Advanced tips and security best practices Key rotation: Change your WireGuard keys periodically to reduce the chance of compromised credentials over time. Proton issues profiles that are valid for one year until a new profile import is required.Hardware constraints: Lower-power routers (~700 MHz single-core) might cap out at ~100 Mbps for WireGuard, while dual-core ARM or x86 at 1.4+ GHz CPUs on these devices can handle hundreds of Mbps or more. (Firewalla Gold Pro can handle 2Gbps WireGuard connections.)Kill switch/fail-closed: In advanced firewall OSes (pfSense, OPNsense), you can configure firewall rules that drop all traffic if the VPN goes down, preventing accidental leaks.Zero-trust segmentation: Isolate IoT or guest devices on separate SSIDs/VLANs. If a device is breached, attackers can't easily pivot across the rest of your network. Building your WireGuard-compatible firewall router on Linux or FreeBSD For advanced users, building a WireGuard-compatible firewall router using open-source platforms like Linux or FreeBSD offers near-limitless customization. Solutions such as OPNsense and pfSense (FreeBSD-based) or OpenWRT and IPFire (Linux-based) provide robust options for integrating WireGuard at the OS level. These platforms allow for refined firewall rules, VLAN management, bandwidth shaping, and multi-WAN failover. While setup requires more technical expertise and hardware compatibility considerations, the payoff is unmatched control over advanced routing and security features. Next steps After you've set up WireGuard on a router via Proton VPN: Explore multi-hop/secure core: Proton VPN's paid plans offer layered routing for heightened privacy.Check WAN failover: If your router supports dual WAN or cellular backup, set up automatic failover so your VPN reconnects if one link drops.Refine policy-based routing: Split tunneling allows selective encryption, perfect for devices that need local content or minimal latency (e.g. gaming consoles).Self-host WireGuard: Platforms like AWS Lightsail, Linode, or DigitalOcean let you build your own VPN server, cutting out third-party operators entirely.Intrusion detection: Tools like Suricata or Snort on OPNsense or pfSense can monitor and block suspicious traffic in real time. The increasing need for router-based VPNs Growing geoblocks, censorship laws, and privacy concerns have made VPNs indispensable for many users. WireGuard stands out with its speed, simplicity, and open-source ethos. Proton VPN offers a robust, privacy-centric VPN that's straightforward to deploy on a wide range of routers, including Firewalla's Gold Series/AP7 for zero-trust segmentation or OpenWRT One for budget-friendly Wi-Fi 6 performance. Also:How we test VPNs in 2025With proper planning, you can maintain the freedom to access geo-blocked content and the security to navigate the modern web safely. Security

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AntonioSolano/Getty ImagesI wanna start by saying I'm not anti-AI.Far from it, actually. I think AI is amazing, and nothing will come between my ChatGPT subscription and me.So, if you're an AI superfan...RELAX and stay out of my DMs. I'm not beefing with you, not today, at least. (I might change my mind tomorrow! )Also:How to sign up for the 'next TikTok' - and why you should do it right awayNow that I've got my disclaimer out the way, I NEED to tell you about the future of online shopping.If you've ever thought about starting an online business or are already selling stuff online and looking for the edge, I've got you.In this article, we'll explore:What I believe the future of online shopping looks likeHow we got to this point in the digital retail landscapeTips and tricks you can use to stay aheadSo kick back and put the pitchfork down as we dive into what I believe could be a game-changer for online shopping in 2025.Oh, and if you stick around until the end, I'll also share how we could make some mula. Quick IntroIf you're new to my work, my name's Lester, but my friends call me Les.I'm a founder with a successful exit and currently the executive chairman of a group of e-commerce brands. I'm an award-winning performance marketer at my core, and spotting trends is my thing.Most importantly, I've been in the e-commerce space for over 10 years, with some massive wins and even more impressive losses (lol).I've seen many trends come and go while keeping my pulse on the industry and what's working.But I can tell you with 99% certainty that this trend is different.The biggest opportunity for online shopping in 2025I'm sure you're wondering, what's this big opportunity?It's called live commerce, and if you're unfamiliar, it's a blend of livestreaming and e-commerce.Creators showcase their products live, explaining the features and benefits to their audience. If the audience likes what they see, they can instantly add it to their cart and purchase it.Here's the crazy part: Live commerce generated $20 billion in 2022 and is projected to hit $55 billion by 2026.Also:There's a new king of online shopping, and it's built an unstoppable monopolyAccording to a recent study, live commerce enhances the online shopping experience by up to 60 percent, making it more engaging and enjoyable for consumers. What is even more impressive is that about 46 percent of US consumers have made a purchase through a live shopping event.Funny story.There I was, explaining live commerce to Aly (my editor), and she looked at me and said, "So, it's like QVC?"I laughed and said, "Yeah, basically, but online."Then two things hit me.One, geez, I'm getting old. Two, even with all the technological advancements like self-driving cars and AI, at our core, humans still want to feel connected to something. That is something AI will never replace.Also: AI isn't the next big thing - here's what isReplicate, sure. Replace, nah. The future belongs to founders and entrepreneurs who create meaningful connections with their audience.Now, I'm not saying AI avatars will fail.I am saying that the founders and entrepreneurs who dare to put themselves out there will likely be more successful.And here's the irony.The more AI we have, the more people will seek meaningful human connections.The psychology of why it worksUnderstanding why live commerce works is essential to future-proofing your business.Live commerce is at the root of what makes us human. It's not just about the product.Let's start with the fear of missing out, a compelling marketing tactic. When you see others getting excited and making purchases, it's hard not to think, "I need one too." It's like when you see one of those TikTok challenges and think, "I have to try this.""It can't be that good."or"It can't be that hard."It's the same thing with live commerce.But when it's happening in real time, it's that feeling on steroids because when the livestream ends, so does the promotion.The audience is faced with purchasing one way or another at that moment. Who are the players?As you can expect, TikTok is leading the charge regarding live commerce.Privacy concerns aside, TikTok really gets it.Creators have seen a lot of success and made millions using this format. Also:Why the TikTok ban could collapse the creator economyIt's not just about making money with products either. TikTok's gifting feature allows users to send virtual items to creators to show appreciation, adding another layer of engagement.That said, the platform I'm watching (and totally in love with) is called Whatnot.As I write this, Whatnot is the fastest-growing platform for live shopping. It specializes in collectibles, fashion, and other niche products.What I love most about the platform is how it connects passionate collectors with the products they love most. It really feels like a community.Even though the platform is "new," creators are already seeing success.Also: The best webcams for streaming of 2025: Expert tested and reviewedFor example, Caitieco recently shared that she sells over $170,000 per month on Whatnot. This proves that dedicated sellers can achieve significant financial success through the platform.What I love about Whatnot is that it shows this style of commerce has legs and isn't unique to TikTok. That said, new platforms are popping up, and established ones are adopting this commerce style with varying success levels.3 tips to get started with live commerceI'm sure you're wondering, where do I even start?You must be good at public speaking and communication basics to make this work. While you don't need to be perfect, and things like stuttering can even be endearing, you need a firm grasp of what you're doing before you go live.Also:One of the best podcasting microphones I've tested is not made by Yeti or RodeIn this case, "live" doesn't mean being unprepared. Feel me? With that said, here's your crash course on how to start doing live commerce and thrive.1. Promoting your livestream in advance.What it is: Promoting your livestream ahead of time to build excitement and ensure a strong turnout. Your livestream needs to feel like an event, so do something unique and offer an exclusive deal or promotion that can only be redeemed during the livestream. You need to give your audience a reason to show up.How to do it: Use email, social media, and SMS to treat it like a prelaunch. Tell everyone you know and encourage them to share it with others. Build buzz by sharing sneak peeks or teasers of what you'll showcase during the live.Pro Tip: Set up a reminder system with SMS or email. Send countdown messages like "We're live in 24 hours!" or "Don't miss our live in 1 hour!" Pair these reminders with a hint about the special offer to build urgency and ensure your audience is ready to engage.2. Leverage live Q&AWhat it is: A real-time conversation with your audience where you answer questions to build trust and rapport. In many ways, it's like being in a store and asking a salesperson about a product or service.How to do it: Encourage your audience to ask questions during the livestream and answer them genuinely and in detail. This is your chance to handle objections and clarify anything that might be unclear in your prospects' minds.Pro Tip: Prepare answers for common questions beforehand to keep the session smooth and engaging. If you don't know the answer, it's OK to say, "I don't know, but I'll get back to you."3. Have a clear call to actionWhat it is: A clear call to action (CTA) tells your audience exactly what you want them to do, whether it's buying a product, signing up, or staying connected. You must have a CTA, and don't be shy either. Be clear and confident in your product or service.How to do it: Be direct and specific during your livestream. Say things like "Click the link to add this to your cart now" or "Tap the button to claim this exclusive offer." Make it easy and obvious for them to take action.Pro Tip: Use urgency and exclusivity in your CTA. For example, "This deal is only available for the next 10 minutes," or "We have limited stock, so grab yours before it's gone." Most importantly, make it special; give your loyal supporters a reason to attend your live event and explain why they need your offer.My two centsLike most things in life, you will get what you put in.Live commerce is a fantastic opportunity to grow any business. However, that doesn't mean it's a magic formula.Things like having a good product that people want, understanding your audience, and knowing how to connect with them will play an important role.Live commerce should be viewed as another tool in your tool belt, not the belt itself. It's interesting to see how big brands are losing touch with their audience. They're chasing AI trends while drifting further from genuine connections. Meanwhile, consumers are saying, "AI is great, but we don't want it to replace authentic interactions with a brand."Also: Is your live TV streaming service still worth it? I reassessed the options for us bothConsistently engaging with your audience is key.Who knows? "Live commerce" might get rebranded into some other fancy name in a few years. But at its core, the underlying "thing" that's happening is simple: humans connecting with humans.Now is the perfect time to take advantage of this shift and gain an edge. Big brands are missing the mark and losing their connection with audiences.You being you is an advantage.AI can't imitate that.All that said, humans are winning, for now Hope this article helps; I'm rooting for you.P.S. Want more data-driven marketing insights? Sign up for my free newsletter, No Fluff Just Facts. I share what's working in the world of digital marketing, the latest trends, and the occasional pep talk to keep you inspired. If this sounds like your jam and you wanna be besties forever, click here to sign up. It's totally free.Featured

This will be the first time the Super Bowl will be streamed at no cost. Here's why it's happening.

ZDNETChinese social app RedNote [iOS/Android], also known as (Xiaohongshu) in China, has gained immense popularity in the last week as a potential TikTok alternative. It is quickly attracting TikTok users looking for a new platform. The app even hit No. 1 in the Apple App Store this week, with thousands of US users flocking to join, according to data from analytics firm Similarweb.Also: Why TikTok isn't vanishing this weekend What is RedNote? RedNote launched in 2013 as a shopping platform but has since transformed into one of China's most popular social networking platforms. It iscommonly usedfor sharing tips on travel, lifestyle, makeup, and fashion. As noted byReuters, "the site has become a de facto search engine for its 300 million-plus users looking for travel tips, [skincare], and restaurant recommendations."For many US users, the migration to RedNote is a response to the US government's ban on TikTok due to privacy and national security concerns. Before Monday, the app had fewer than 700,000 daily users across both iOS and Android devices in the US. However, an influx of self-proclaimed "TikTok refugees" has caused an uptick of nearly 3 million daily active users, Reuters reported on Tuesday. Show more Screenshot by David Grober/ZDNET What does RedNote mean? Xiaohongshu translates to "Little Red Book." It's a cheeky reference to Mao Zedong, the founding father of Communist (aka, "Red") China. Show more Why is RedNote gaining traction now? RedNote's overnight virality is largely due to American TikTok users, particularly younger people, poking fun at theTikTok banand the US government's reasons for wanting to implement it in the first place. As Wired's Megan Farokhmaneshstates, "It's TikTok users who are having the last laugh.""Users are jokingly addressing love letters, tributes, and thank-yous to fictional Chinese spies... who pose the national security threat the US government aims to thwart," Farokhmanesh writes. Some examples of viral videos include Chinese users teaching Americans how to say TikTok colloquialisms in Mandarin, American TikTok usersdiscovering Chinese EVs, and even Chinese and American userscomparing medicaland grocery store bills. Show more Ryan Broderick/TikTokTikTok has become well known for viral cultural moments and trends, so it's unsurprising that an explosion of viral posts, trending memes, and funny cultural exchanges between American and Chinese users has propelled RedNote into the mainstream. Some have also pointed outthat Black and POC creators contributed to RedNote's rising success by promoting the app to their large followings as a better alternative to US platforms such as Meta-owned Instagram. How does RedNote work? I used thistutorialto learn how to navigate the app because of the language barrier. The tutorial details how to change your settings to English. However, while changing the settings does make it easier to use, there are still limited English translations when viewing other people's posts, mostly Chinese users.Also: How to delete Facebook, Messenger, or InstagramAfter choosing my "interests" and following some "moots" (mutual followers) from TikTok that I knew were making the transition to RedNote, my Explore page began suggesting fashion/style content, cooking videos of Chinese dishes, beauty content, and educational videos of Chinese society, culture, and customs. Surprisingly, I've also been seeing a mix of content from users outside China because I'm following mutuals from TikTok.I noticed that RedNote does have some similarities to TikTok, Instagram's Reels, and YouTube Shorts in the sense that your Explore page will be an amalgamation of short video clips and posts related to your interests and the content you've been viewing and liking. However, RedNote has more curated sections than other apps I've seen. You can view sections dedicated to household products, food, fashion, travel, music, film/TV, skincare, art, emotions, and even "science popularization." I would assume that's because users can create content tied to specific products. Show more Is RedNote a decent TikTok alternative? Well, no.While the hype around RedNote seems huge now, it's most likely just a trend -- not an enduring alternative to TikTok. TikTok is aglobal appwith a global user base, and about 170 million users in the US alone. RedNote has not expanded its platform to foster that same type of popularity.Also:What is Lemon8? Here's why this social app is rising in popularity againRedNote is a closer equivalent to Instagram and Pinterest, whereas TikTok runs on viral moments, trendy and niche cultural discourse, and lifestyle content. Show more Does RedNote have any censorship, security, or privacy concerns? For some US users, the sudden appeal of RedNote is already waning because of Chinese censorship rules. RedNote has begun removing US users' posts "deemed [too] sensitive" for the app, "either politically or otherwise," including posts discussing LGBTQ topics, CNNreported.Also:'How to quit Facebook?' searches spike after Meta's fact-checking banPrivacy advocates are also warning against using RedNote. In an emailed statement toThe Verge, Cooper Quintin, the senior staff technologist at the Electronic Frontier Foundation, explained that "Anyone for whom privacy is a matter of personal safety should think twice before downloading RedNote," adding that the EFF has similar concerns about US-based apps like Facebook.According to RedNote'sprivacy policy, the app collects a large amount of data, including users' location via their IP address, browsing activity, call logs, and more. Also, RedNote's terms and conditions are in Mandarin, and many new users have had trouble translating them into English.It's important to note that, like TikTok, which is also known for collecting large amounts of user data, RedNote is subject to Chinese data laws. Show more Featured

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