SSDs offer noticeable speed advantages when booting, loading programs, and games. However, anyone storing or archiving large amounts of data will quickly hit their capacity and budget limits. Very inexpensive SSDs often only have 256 to 512GB, while HDDs in the same price range offer one or two TB of capacity. If you need more storage, you’ll pay significantly more for SSDs, or have to switch to external storage solutions. An HDD can also be more attractive from a financial perspective. A 2TB internal SSD typically costs $130–$180, while an HDD of the same size can be found for just $60–$90. Users who focus on price-performance ratio or prefer to put their budget toward a graphics card or RAM may be better off with an HDD. SSDs are popular in notebooks for their shock resistance and silent operation, and are now the preferred storage in full systems too.Kingston In terms of longevity, SSDs are considered reliable, but have a physically limited number of write cycles. You won’t notice this in everyday use, but for heavy write loads (such as frequent backups), an HDD may still be the more robust option. SSDs also store data reliably if they’re regularly supplied with power. For long-term archiving without permanent use, an HDD may be better. HDDs also have an edge in data protection: they can be securely erased by overwriting with the right software. With SSDs, internal memory management (such as wear leveling) makes complete erasure more difficult — specialized tools must be used in a targeted manner here. Finally, hardware compatibility plays a role: older computers may not support modern SSD standards like NVMe or M.2. In such cases, SATA HDD is a simple and cost-effective alternative, especially when paired with a lightweight Linux system. An SSD is usually optimal for storage, but not always—classic HDDs still have a place, especially in mixed-use setups.Secure Data Recovery Our conclusion: SSDs are the best choice for speed, energy efficiency, and mobile use. However, if you need lots of storage, have a tight budget, or want to continue using old hardware, an HDD is often the better choice. The clever solution? Use an SSD for your operating system and programs, and an HDD for large data and backups. Read...

Welcome to The Full Nerd newsletter—your weekly dose of hardcore hardware talk from the enthusiasts at PCWorld. Missed the latest topics on our YouTube show or fresh news from across the web? You’re in the right place. Want this newsletter to come directly to your inbox? Sign up on our website! I remember the sound of my modem. I owned only one—a 14.4K baud model that felt like a clunker, compared to what my peers owned. They all had newer computers. AOL is actually how I first made it fully online—and how I found out I owned a turtle of a modem. Until then, I’d only logged into a free local BBS. But then I learned of the world wide web, and how it held more info about my favorite TV show. I secretly signed up for a trial without my parents’ permission. I discovered quickly that I hated the interface, and also that I couldn’t load webpages quickly at all. (1.0kbps download speeds feel bad, man.) These restrictions didn’t keep me from exploring or meeting new people, but after I burned through my free hours, I returned to my BBS. I never gave much thought to AOL’s dial-up service again. I got back on the internet a year or so later in a different way—a boy at school who shared his unlimited plan though the local phone company. Most everyone I knew also chose competing ISPs. So like many others, I was surprised to hear of AOL’s plan to axe its dial-up service on September 30. I had long relegated the shambling joined corpses of Yahoo and AOL to the past, not allowed to rest in peace. Doomed to forever live on as web portals used by few but remembered by many. facesintime / eBay Initially, I didn’t think much on the news. The end of an era, sure, but a time best left to the past. Back then, we put up with slow downloads, rudimentary interfaces, and questionable web design. (Remember marquee text?) But I couldn’t shake the nostalgia. The internet felt special in the mid-’90s. A shared interest in the medium itself brought together strangers from all over the world—a new, earnest, and optimistic community. Everyone online wanted to be there, and they also wanted to connect. For my part, I spent hours and hours of my formative years online, whether in text-based games (I still recall Kryandia with great fondness), forum discussions, or entire troves of fanfiction. That spirit still lingers in the internet today, even in its dark pockets. We still form communities, message one another, and use netspeak. The Full Nerd’s Discord server is a great example of the evolution—the emotes have become more sophisticated and the animated GIFs upload much faster, but the vibe is still there. You could even argue current robust industries got their start in early internet culture—I see a direct link between the prevalence of self-publishing and fanfiction. Many of us carry forward other habits too, like sending messages in short clusters of one to two sentences at a time. Long-form comments on Reddit. Connecting for the sole purpose of just being able to say you talked to someone half a world away. Just as the PC did for computing, AOL brought the internet into homes for millions of people. I wouldn’t be able to write for this newsletter if its dial-up service hadn’t made going online normal and common. I hope the influence from the era that it represents—the whimsy and hope of the early ’90s internet—always lives on. Irony is having to take a screenshot of ASCII art to make sure it retains proper spacing in this write-up.PCWorld / patorjk.com In this episode of The Full Nerd In this episode of The Full Nerd, Adam Patrick Murray, Alaina Yee, Will Smith, and special guest Russ of Retro Game Corps chat about AMD dominance in PC gaming handhelds (and Intel’s current uphill battle), our wishes for the Steam Deck 2, and Thunderbolt 5 eGPUs. The delicate subject of Steam Machines once again comes up—as does Will’s quiet vehemence that the concept belongs in the past.  Will isn’t against anarchy though, given his take on transferring boot drives between PCs during the Q&A. Also of note: The pre-show, during which Adam sniffs yet another scented product. It led to this gem of a quote from Will: “I’m getting a mix of metal and industrial lubricants and a little bit of a laundry cleaner.” Just another day at the office.Alex Esteves / Foundry Missed our live show? Subscribe now to The Full Nerd YouTube channel, and activate notifications. We also answer viewer questions in real-time!  And if you need more hardware talk during the rest of the week, come join our Discord community—it’s full of cool, laid-back nerds. This week’s plentiful nerd news I started writing this newsletter expecting slim pickings, given how quiet this summer has been. But people have been staying busy—think nifty modding projects, a whole cardboard PC reproduction, and CT scans of a legendary Intel CPU. Or you know, just ignoring social norms. It works for me.Asus Guess I’m not the only one: Last week, I pondered Intel’s shrinking influence on tech. Seems the topic was also on other people’s minds—Steve Burke over at Gamers Nexus also dove into the topic, armed with numbers (as you’d expect). You can make a floppy disk from scratch: Speaking of 1990s throwbacks, this engineering project is so cool. I can’t think of the ’90s without also thinking of my collection of 3.5-inch floppies. (Yes, technically the floppy originated in the ’80s, but I refuse to think of them as over 40 years old. That would mean I’m old.) I think I like the Noctua RTX 5080: Asus makes it look classy. A classy block of hardware that could be mistaken for a slab of chocolate. I want my own reverse-engineered Game Boy Color: This modder’s project is incredible—look at the detail! (She has a new fan of her work in me.) As we said back in the day: So dope. Would Gordon approve? This cardboard PC is beautifully elegant versus Dave Murphy’s iconic, epic take during Maximum PC’s heyday. Corrugated edges simulating mobo slots? Genius. On the other hand…the waifu stickers. (I appreciate this attention to detail.) The keyboard really sets the whole tone.Korea Herald Maybe it’s not the Year of Linux yet: RIP Intel Linux driver projects. Hate AI? Too bad, you’re still paying for it: Yep, literally. Check your electricity bill—your costs likely have gone up, and this is a contributing factor. Someone did a CT scan of an Intel 386 CPU: You know how art does infrared and other types of scans of old paintings, to see what might be buried underneath? I love that we can do something similar for old tech. (Also, before anyone asks if this week’s link section is just a ’90s nostalgia list, I’d like to point out that I don’t control the tech zeitgeist.) What’s in your clipboard history? Just a friendly PSA reminder that Windows Recall isn’t the only thing that could give away sensitive info about you. Starbucks Korea patrons apparently give zero effs: You may have already read this news, but what you don’t know is that I am a very lone minority among the The Full Nerd and PCWorld crews. I wouldn’t mind partitions at cafes. (My coworkers say this is a monstrous take, but a time-limit policy would deal with the seat-hogging issue.) Also, did you see some of those setups? Respect. This also works for me.Teenage Engineering RIP 5700X3D? I guess maybe AM4 could finally enter the Hall of Fame next year. Provided I can successfully navigate the inevitable rule-breaking and anarchy during the show. I found Adam’s next fidget toy: I might get the 10-pack—my contribution to helping prevent future table banging during TFN episodes. I’m still thinking about this Teenage Engineering case: Is it art? Is it madness? Maybe it’s both. I’m sad I missed the limited availability. The AI industry is nervous about its future: A copyright class action lawsuit has trade groups claiming a loss would result in total financial ruin for the industry. As someone who writes for a living, all I can say is: Know Your Meme I’ll leave you all with a tip for the week—when giving away old hardware to your friends, don’t forget to check if the mobo’s UEFI needs an update. Otherwise you’ll mess up the timing for hand-off and set back their build plans by weeks. Sigh. Alaina This newsletter is dedicated to the memory of Gordon Mah Ung, founder and host of The Full Nerd, and executive editor of hardware at PCWorld. Read...

Although support for Windows 10 will not end in October 2025 after all, Microsoft’s additional grace period extends its life by only one year. This means that many users will soon not only have to say goodbye to their operating system, but also to their computer in the near future. Even if its components are powerful enough for Windows 11, it may become electronic waste: This is because Microsoft has strict requirements for the hardware on which the new operating system can run — especially when it comes to the processor. Most PCs and laptops that are more than eight years old are therefore excluded from the upgrade — even though they work without any problems under Windows 10 and would certainly do the same under Windows 11. However, you can make your computer officially fit for Windows 11 with small hardware upgrades: Whether this is worthwhile, whether it is even possible, and how much it costs depends on the specific PC or laptop. What your computer needs for Windows 11 The requirements that Microsoft places on a computer for Windows 11 look low at first glance: Processor with 64-bit support, two cores and a clock speed of 1GHz 4GB RAM 64GB storage for the installation Many old computers fulfill these requirements, which aren’t dissimilar from the requirements for graphics hardware with Direct X 12: Even PCs that are over 10 years old have suitable components. To make a PC with an Intel processor suitable for Windows 11, it is not enough to simply replace the processor. The new CPU also needs a new motherboard because it has a different socket format. IDG The same is true of Microsoft’s demand for a motherboard that has UEFI firmware with the Secure Boot function: This was already mandatory for computers with Windows 8, so complete systems should have been equipped with it since 2013. The requirement for TPM 2.0 is more problematic: Windows stores security keys in the Trusted Platform Module, which also monitors the PC boot process to ensure that no malware is active before Windows loads. TPM 2.0 was mandatory for complete systems with Windows 10, meaning that computers sold since the end of 2016 should be equipped accordingly. Prior to this, PCs and laptops were usually equipped with TPM 1.2 — which Microsoft believes makes them too insecure for Windows 11. However, most computers will fail to overcome one hurdle when switching to Windows 11: According to Microsoft, they absolutely need a processor that is on the official compatibility list, which is available for Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm models. This rules out all computers intended for private users that are equipped with an Intel processor before the 8th Core generation (“Coffee Lake,” “Kaby Lake R,” “Kaby Lake G,” “Amber Lake Y”) or an AMD CPU whose cores are not based at least on the Zen architecture. Complete systems with a supported CPU were available from spring 2018 — so if your computer is more than seven years old, Windows 11 cannot be installed without detours. Even with very old PCs, RAM, SSD, the processor clock rate or the number of cores are almost never the reason why Windows 11 cannot be installed. However, they lack security functions such as Secure Boot.WhyNotWin11 However, the Microsoft list is not consistent: Older processors such as the Intel Core i7-7820HQ from early 2017 or newer ones such as the AMD Athlon 3000G from the end of 2019, which is based on the Zen architecture, are also listed as suitable for Windows 11, although other processors with this architecture are excluded. Microsoft published new lists for the individual processor manufacturers for the Windows 24H2 update in February: They mainly contain more recent CPU models. However, some CPUs that were previously listed as supported have also been removed — including individual models from generations that are actually considered compatible with Windows 11. Whether this was accidental or intentional is unclear. These lists are actually aimed at PC manufacturers (OEMs), not private users. With older processors in particular, they do not give you any definitive certainty as to whether a particular CPU is supported by Windows 11 — and even if it is now, whether this will also apply to future updates of the operating system. How to check whether your PC is ready for Windows 11 If your computer is suitable for Windows 11 in its current configuration, you will be prompted at regular intervals to switch to the new system. Windows 10 also indicates this with a large window in the settings under “Windows Update”. Foundry If this is not the case for you, you can use tools to check how Windows 11-ready your PC is. Microsoft offers the PC Health Check for this purpose. Start the check by clicking the blue “Check now” button. If the computer fulfills the requirements for Windows 11, the overall result and the results for the individual components are highlighted in green. A yellow mark means that the tool could not perform the test for a specific requirement because the components or function was not recognized or has not yet been activated — for example, because Secure Boot is switched off. A cross in a red circle indicates that this component is preventing the upgrade to Windows 11 — in most cases the processor. Incidentally, you should not trust the age information displayed on the left-hand side of the tool’s start screen — it simply guesses based on certain system information, which has nothing to do with the actual age of the hardware or the Windows installation. The freeware WhyNotWin11 also checks the Windows 11 compatibility of the individual components and functions: Green means passed, red means failed. If the check tool reports that Secure Boot could not be detected, it may be because you have not activated this function. First start the Windows system information by running msinfo32 in the main window: “UEFI” must be in the “BIOS Mode” line. If “Off” is displayed for “Secure Boot State,” the UEFI supports Secure Boot, but it is not activated. To switch on Secure Boot, call up the UEFI settings: The most reliable way to do this is to click on “Restart now” in the Windows settings under “Update & Security > Recovery > Advanced Boot.” After a short time, the blue Windows pre-boot environment will appear: Select “Troubleshooting > Advanced options > UEFI firmware settings > Restart.” The computer now calls up the UEFI setup: Depending on the manufacturer, you will find the options for Secure Boot in the “Boot” or “Security” section. There, set Secure Boot to “Enabled,” “Switched on,” “UEFI,” or “Windows UEFI Mode.” After the restart, the “Secure boot state” in the system information should be set to “On.” If you open the TPM management under Windows with the command tpm.msc, the system will show you whether a corresponding security module is present and switched on. If Windows does not find a TPM in the system, you may first have to activate it in the UEFI setup settings.Foundry Proceed in a similar way to check for TPM: Enter tpm.msc in the Windows search window. If the information for a TPM and “Specification version 2.0” appear, everything is OK, version “1.2” is not sufficient for Windows 11 — you need a new processor here. If you see “No compatible TPM found,” the TPM may be compatible but not active. Now you need to call up the UEFI again and look for an option such as “Security Device,” “TPM State,” or, on a computer with an Intel CPU, “Intel PTT” or “Intel Platform Trust Technology.” The corresponding options for an AMD computer are called “AMD fTPM Switch” or “AMD PSP fTPM.” Set them to “On,” “Enabled,” or “Activated.” You need to replace this hardware for Windows 11 For an older PC, the route to Windows 11 usually involves changing the processor: Older CPUs also fulfill some of Microsoft’s requirements — they usually come with TPM 2.0 and their motherboard offers UEFI firmware with Secure Boot. However, the models on the compatibility list have additional functions that their predecessors do not have and that cannot be added later via an update: In most cases, these are security precautions against malware attacks on the operating system. The quickest and cheapest way to make an older PC fit for Windows 11 is to equip it with a processor that Microsoft allows. To do this, you must first clarify whether the CPU in your computer is soldered to the motherboard or sits in a socket — only then can it be replaced at all. Find out the model designation of the CPU — for example via the Windows Device Manager under “Processors,” in the Windows settings under “System > Info,” or with a hardware analysis tool such as HWinfo 64 or Speccy. Then research the technical data for this model on the processor manufacturer’s website — for example ark.intel.com. The hardware tools are also helpful — in HWinfo 64, look for “Main processor -> CPU platform.” If terms such as “Socket,” “PGA,” or “LGA” appear there, it is a socketed processor that can generally be expanded. If, on the other hand, you see the abbreviation “BGA,” also in the form “FC-BGA,” the processor is soldered onto the board — you cannot replace it. A complete PC with a desktop or tower housing usually has a socketed processor, whereas in many laptops the CPU is soldered. However, there are exceptions: All-in-one PCs or small mini PCs often use soldered laptop CPUs, while large laptops — for example, gaming and high-end laptops — often have a socketed processor. Intel: How to choose a suitable processor If the processor can be changed, the next step is to clarify whether a Windows 11-compatible model can be used instead. The new processor must fit into the existing slot on the motherboard installed in the PC. For older computers with Intel processors, your chances are slim: The socketed models from the CPU generations that are suitable for Windows 11 — from Coffee Lake onwards — use a different slot than their predecessors. This is also called LGA1151 — but version 1 differs from version 2 for Coffee Lake in terms of the electrical connections: You can therefore use a newer processor, but it will not work. When switching to Windows 11, you will therefore need a new processor and a new motherboard for the Intel platform. Only if the processor sits on the board in a socket can it be replaced with a new one. You can use check tools such as HWinfo64 to find out whether this is the case with your computer. IDG Depending on how powerful you want your computer to be after the upgrade, the upgrade will cost you between around $200 and $500. In addition, you can skip several CPU generations from Intel when buying a new processor and motherboard, as newer models are hardly more expensive than older ones: This not only makes the updated computer fit for Windows 11, but also gives it a generous increase in speed. If your old PC uses DDR4 RAM, you can even use the RAM on a board for the 14th core generation “Raptor Lake-R” from last year: A suitable motherboard such as the Asus Prime H610M costs around $100, and you can get a solid mid-range processor such as the Core i5-14400 as a boxed version with cooler for around $140. It will be significantly more expensive if you want to equip your old PC with the latest CPU generation Arrow Lake: Inexpensive processors such as a Core Ultra 5 225 cost around $250, with a suitable motherboard costing just over $100. You will also need DDR5 RAM, which is around $40 for 16GB capacity. If you only have a tight upgrade budget, you can opt for a board with an LGA1200 slot for an Intel PC: CPUs up to the 11th-generation Rocket Lake can be used there, such as a Core i5-11400F, which costs around $115 with a fan. In addition, an LGA1200 board such as the Gigabyte H510M v2 costs around $100. There are no costs for a new drive in any case: All boards for the upgrade options shown have M.2 and SATA connections so that you can continue to use an existing SSD — unless you need a flash memory with a larger capacity. The cheapest M.2 and SATA SSDs with 512GB are around $30 — an SSD with PCI Express 3.0 is sufficient for M.2 because the recommended boards do not support a higher PCIe version for the drive. In many cases, you can continue to use your existing power supply unit: Its connections should be suitable for the new board and the new components, unless you are using a powerful graphics card. However, it is generally advisable to replace the power supply unit on a computer that is six years old or older. Hardware upgrade for an AMD computer The upgrade path to Windows 11 is more favorable if you have a computer with an AMD processor: The manufacturer continued to use the AM4 socket for the older processors until 2022. This means, for example, that a Ryzen 7 1700 that does not work with Windows 11 can be replaced with a processor from the Ryzen 5000 series, such as the Ryzen 7 5700 or the Ryzen 7 5800XT. These models are still readily available and cost between $120 and around $180 with cooler. Many old PCs with AMD CPUs only need to be replaced to make them compatible with Windows 11. Check beforehand whether there is a UEFI Bios update for the installed board that supports the new processor.IDG Before you buy the new processor, check whether your existing motherboard supports it: The manufacturer must provide a suitable UEFI update, which can be found out on the support pages for the relevant board. You can continue to use the built-in RAM and an existing SSD. As with Intel, newer AMD processors support higher clock rates for DDR4: In everyday PC use, however, it is usually hardly noticeable that the existing DDR4 memory in the old computer runs a little slower. Read...

Customers have been bringing in printers and multiple computers as they work from cafes. Read...

Maybe it was the sight of Sengled users literally left in the dark by their useless Wi-Fi bulbs, maybe it was another price hike, or just an overall sense that my smart devices weren’t truly under my control. Whatever the reason, I’d developed a growing desire to build a smart home setup that wasn’t a hostage to the cloud.  Specifically, I’m talking about a locally hosted smart home setup, and I’m currently in the process of building one. And while I’m a smart home expert thanks to my six years’ experience here at TechHive, I’m quickly realizing how much I still don’t know as I tackle the steep learning curve of a DIY smart home.  This isn’t a step-by-step guide of how to build your own smart home system—that might come later—but more of a journal about where I am in my self-hosted smart home journey, where I started, and what I’m hoping to achieve. If you’ve been harboring similar thoughts and my story gives you some inspiration, all the better.  I was a complete smart home novice when I started here at TechHive; I’d been writing about computers and technology for 20 years but had never installed a smart bulb before, much less a smart home hub. Over time, my apartment became stuffed with smart devices, from Alexa speakers and Google displays to Philips Hue bulbs and even a Ring video doorbell. My dumb home was rapidly becoming smart.  What I didn’t like was how smart systems I’d grown accustomed to changed when one manufacturer or another would randomly redesign an app, throwing my smart home workflow into chaos. Nor did I like the occasional server outages that left me unable to control my devices, nor the features that were unceremoniously placed behind paywalls. Oh, and don’t forget the price hikes. Stumbling into self-hosted smart home  I stumbled into the self-hosted smart home world by accident. I was experimenting with an unused Raspberry Pi a few years back (this was before I wound up with four of the diminutive computer boards running on my network) and noticed an option to install something called Home Assistant. Sounded kinda cool, so I tried it, and was astonished to have a Home Assistant instance spun up in minutes.  Easy, right? Not quite. Sure, getting Home Assistant—an open-source smart home platform that offers scores of integrations and boasts hundreds of avid contributors—up and running isn’t a big deal. Getting it configured, though, takes gumption, experimentation, and patience, the latter quality being among those I could use more of. Instead of depending on the cloud, my work-in-progress smart home setup runs on this little Raspberry Pi board.Ben Patterson/Foundry See, Home Assistant is pretty good about pinging your local network and seeing which devices, smart or otherwise, can be set up on the platform. But once you add all those products to a default Home Assistant dashboard, it’s up to you to get them organized and working together. Home Assistant gives you tons of freedom to arrange your devices in practically any way you see fit, but the massive range of options—not to mention dozens of drop-down menus and settings with arcane labels—can be intimidating.  Dealing with the learning curve  That’s why every few months or so, I’d give Home Assistant another go, tinkering away at a custom dashboard but eventually getting nowhere. A proprietary smart ecosystem like Philips Hue, in contrast, is incredibly intuitive and a cinch to set up. The downside of Hue, Ring, and other closed platforms is that you’re subject to their ever-changing whims, whereas your Home Assistant setup is yours—provided you can get it set up.  In the past few weeks, though, things have begun to accelerate. I recently migrated my Home Assistant instance to a more powerful Raspberry Pi 5 (my old Pi 3 just didn’t have the horsepower or the RAM to keep Home Assistant stable), and later I acquired some Z-Wave hardware that basically turned my Pi into a Z-Wave hub.  Next, I spun up a Matter server on the Pi and began controlling my Thread devices directly on Home Assistant, right alongside my Z-Wave products. For now, my Thread setup depends on an Apple HomePod mini and its Thread border router, which requires signing into my Apple account; eventually, I plan on adding a dedicated Thread module to my Home Assistant rig to cut that tie to the cloud.  Just a little help from my (AI) friends  Finally, it was time to deal with that pesky dashboard again, but this time I brought reinforcements—you guessed it, we’re talking ChatGPT. I fed the chatbot a lengthy list of all the devices registered on my Home Assistant instance, and the AI dutifully spat out a raw YAML configuration file. (YAML is a programming language, and the acronym stands for YAML Ain’t Markup Language). I plugged in the code, and voilà—a multi-tabbed dashboard appeared with most of my devices and automations neatly displayed. ChatGPT’s work wasn’t perfect; there’s one tab filled with misconfiguration errors, and some of the tabs aren’t laid out exactly as I’d like. But it’s a starting point—and more importantly, I can study ChatGPT’s work and learn how to do it on my own.  Taking the next step  So, what’s next? A Zigbee module, for starters—and then, if I’m really ambitious, I might unpair my Phillips Hue lights from the Hue Bridge (which, naturally, depends on a cloud connection) and re-pair them directly to the local Zigbee hub. Doing so would mean losing all the extra functionality in the Hue app—no more nifty animations, for example, and so long music syncing—but it would also mean not caring about whether the Hue servers are up or down. (To be fair, Philips Hue servers rarely suffer any hiccups at all, or at least not in my experience.) A steeper hill to climb involves using a voice assistant powered by local AI to control my devices. Home Assistant offers integrations for all the big AI providers, including OpenAI and Google Gemini, as well as Ollama, an app that allows local hardware to run large-language AI models.  But configuring local LLMs to deal with dozens of smart home devices has been a surprisingly tricky task. My locally hosted AI models have routinely choked on the more than 100 entities that are exposed to my Home Assistant instance, so my next task will be to pare down and subdivide that total into bite-sized pieces, as well as to craft a system prompt that will help the AI reliably understand the meaning and intention of my typed commands. (Speech-to-text voice control on Home Assistant requires either local processing, which is an awful lot for my local hardware to take on, or an optional $6.50/month cloud subscription.)  So yes, a locally hosted smart home system like Home Assistant isn’t for everyone. For an easier experience, consider Hubitat, a locally hosted but closed-source smart home system that has a large cadre of fans. (I’ve never tried it, but our reviewer deemed it “impractical” in his 2021 evaluation. We’re way overdue for another look at that, as well as a couple of other newish hubs.) But if you’re ever shaken your fist at a smart home manufacturer for redesigning its app, raising subscription fees, or permanently bricking one of your devices, a self-hosted smart home system is the best revenge.  This story is part of TechHive’s in-depth coverage of the best smart home systems. Read...

This may come as a surprise: Though I work at PCWorld, I don’t build computers. Well, I can. I have. But it’s one thing to buy a few thousand dollars’ worth of parts and then build a desktop on a budget that’s not my own, versus plonking down several hundred precious dollars and messing around inside of a desktop when I have several perfectly good laptops very nearby and might screw it all up. Plus my wife says that I have to run to Costco. Enter the Framework Desktop. If you have the time, money, and desire, you can build a desktop PC from scratch! It’s fun and rewarding. For the suburban parent who will happily change their wiper blades but not their oil, the Framework Desktop offers configurability for little effort. Building an Ikea bookshelf is complicated compared to this. Framework has sold multiple generations of its laptops, all with the same goal in mind: offer the flexibility of a desktop, but inside a laptop form factor. But a desktop poses a different challenge: How do you keep up with a desktop that is already configurable almost down to the screws? Here, I would say that Framework dodged the question. But that’s kind of immaterial, since the result is a highly detailed, simplified process of putting together a desktop PC. The easiest Desktop you`ll ever build Framework Desktop Best Prices Today: $2515 at Framework The Framework Desktop ships in either a pre-built or DIY Edition. I reviewed the latter, and you’ll see more photos and a performance evaluation in a separate article. This story focuses just on the build process, to show you what it’s like to put it together. And it doesn’t get easier than this. Building the Framework Desktop: Out of the box I remain convinced that two opposing forces are always pulling on my psyche: my father’s German ancestry, which finds a deep satisfaction in engineering and then executing the proper solution; and my mother’s Irish roots, which simply asks the question, Does it work? If the answer is yes, then it’s off to the pub. Framework satisfies both. The Framework Desktop is all packed together, with each part encased in a labeled, cardboard box. Note the scannable HTML glyph that links to the manual.Mark Hachman / Foundry For one, Framework has the most well-documented manual I can recall seeing. And that’s weird, because the DIY Edition requires hardly any effort. There’s so little “D” in the “I,” I almost wanted more. Even Framework says that putting it all together should take about 45 minutes. That seems insanely long. I took about 30, not only because I was worried I’d make a mistake but also because I have the manual dexterity of a golden retriever. Essentially, the DIY Edition is a flat-packed PC. All of it ships inside a box, inside which are more boxes: the case, the CPU fan, the side panel, colored tiles, an SSD (assuming you ordered one), the power cable, and that’s about it. Ikea provides an Allen wrench; Framework gives you a long two-headed, reversible screwdriver with a Torx and a Phillips head. On one of the boxes is a link to the manual, which you can leave open on your phone or tablet. (You can follow along what I did, here.) There really aren’t that many parts. Framework even included a prototype handle (center, bottom) which I didn’t use.Mark Hachman / Foundry Each step is almost excessively documented, with multiple photos describing each of the 45 steps. But wait: Framework devotes four steps simply to unscrewing each of the two thumbscrews on the top of the Desktop and removing the top panel. Building a “normal” desktop involves buying a CPU, applying and spreading thermal paste, affixing a cooler of some sort, and more. There’s none of that here. Not only is the CPU already affixed to the motherboard, but Framework pre-installs the motherboard and memory, which comes soldered down. Really, the entirety of the building process involves screwing on the 120mm CPU fan with four screws, plugging it in, inserting the SSD and replacing the heat spreader…and that’s it. The remainder is simply opening up the case, closing it, and installing Windows. That actually takes the most time, as Microsoft downloads updates that can take a while to install. (Framework doesn’t supply an SSD with Windows pre-installed, though it will sell you a Windows license to install yourself — there’s another, well-documented guide to do so.) Virtually all of the hardware also comes with little visual cues: an arrow pointing to the proper position, plus actual “Top” and “Bottom” labels etched into the plastic or metal itself. That’s not necessary, but so very reassuring if you’re uncertain about what you’re doing. Framework ships most of the Desktop pre-assembled. This is right out of the box, with cables tried and the CPU radiator already mounted.Mark Hachman / Foundry Finally, don’t forget the USB-C expansion cards that plug into the chassis base, or the tiles that allow you to customize the front to your own aesthetic. I’ve never been a fan of laptop stickers, but the tiles (with small vents for airflow) are something I didn’t think I’d appreciate as much as I do. Building the Framework Desktop: What I didn’t like Not everything’s perfect. If I were building a PC, I’d prefer to install the SSD into the motherboard, and then the motherboard into the case. Framework asks you to do the opposite. What that means is that you’ll need to unscrew the heat spreader, allowing it to pop up, then insert the SSD, all by poking and prodding at the M.2 slot, way at the bottom of the inside of the case. I’d prefer to connect the SSD first, then place the motherboard inside the case. That’s not an option with the Framework Desktop.Mark Hachman / Foundry That led to a minute or two of chasing the tiny Torx screw around the case after it popped out of the heat spreader and rolled around, until I fished it out with a tweezers. Framework’s screwdriver is very slightly magnetic, enough that it can barely hold the screw in place while I lowered it into the case. I was very much reminded of playing Operation while trying to line everything up. (Framework also solders down the memory, so that you can’t install, replace, or upgrade it.) Framework’s Desktop also includes an optional secondary slot for additional storage on the back of the motherboard, accessible via its own side panel. That panel, like the plastic panels you see here in my photos can be removed easily just by pulling them slightly out and upwards. Framework gives you a choice between an optional translucent plastic side panel or one that matches the black aluminum used on the rest of the chassis.Mark Hachman / Foundry I also wasn’t totally pleased by how the top panel clips on to the case. On one try, it would clip in easily; on another, it would simply refuse to line up properly for a few minutes. Thankfully, we cut that portion from our associated YouTube video, where I’ll give you another look at what’s inside the case and how the Desktop performs overall. Aside from a few moments of feeling like an idiot, I had no issues putting the Framework Desktop together, and I doubt you will, either. The handholding this company is willing to do should make you feel like you’re well taken care of. The thumbscrews on the top of the Framework Desktop must be unscrewed for access to the side panels and the interior. The holes didn’t match up easily with the screw holes in the chassis, one of the few times I felt a little frustrated. Note the small but visible arrows to help you align the panels correctly.Mark Hachman / Foundry The other challenge to be aware of is the software drivers. If you purchase a Windows license, you’ll be asked to install it. Normally, a motherboard includes a set of pre-installed drivers or firmware to help facilitate that process; Framework’s desktop drivers had yet to be validated by AMD, which meant that I had to install a package of beta drivers alongside the Windows installation. If for some reason those drivers aren’t available, it’s not that big of a deal. You can install Windows without needing to connect to the internet, then add the license key later. You can also do what I did, which was to discover that I had forgotten to install the Wi-Fi driver, so I simply connected an Ethernet cable instead and added the driver afterwards. Don’t forget the tiles, which come in a variety of designs and colors.Mark Hachman / Foundry Everything worked perfectly, though AMD later provided an updated driver that really unlocked the processor’s performance potential. Given that Framework ships its products in batches — and those batches may take a few weeks to process — I’d expect those issues to be worked out well before you receive your finished Desktop. Building the Framework Desktop: Looking ahead One of the strengths of the Framework experience is that the company is looking forward to the day not when you buy a Framework device, but when you upgrade it. Though Framework hasn’t published a guide to upgrading the Desktop’s mainboard, it almost certainly eventually will. It already offers you a guide to removing the Desktop’s mainboard and installing it in another mini-ITX case, after all. After inserting the tiles, you can slide in the I/O expansion cards, too. The gray latch on the underside of the chassis helps secure them.Mark Hachman / Foundry Eventually, AMD will manufacture a successor to the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ processor, and you may want to swap the existing “Strix Halo” processor out and replace it with AMD’s latest chip. And that’s the foundation of Framework’s platform: You may be able to pick and choose from future upgrades, but you’ll choose to remain within Framework’s framework. There’s a lot to be said for that approach. We live in a world where so many companies are building in fine print and gotchas, service charges and subscriptions and labyrinthine contracts. Instead, Framework goes out of its way to be as simple and helpful as it can, and that’s something I can relate to. I’ve reviewed many, many products over my years as a technology reporter, and I can’t think of a single one that goes to such lengths to document how to use it as much as Framework does. Framework’s Desktop gives off a vibe of “helpful nerds who enjoy explaining technology” — which is very much what I think PCWorld has always tried to achieve. The point is that you don’t have to be a nerd to buy a Framework Desktop, however, and that’s one of its best features. Read...

Microsoft has shared a video in which David Weston, who holds the title of Corporate Vice President of Enterprise & Security, shares his vision of how Windows will work in 2030. Here’s what his vision looks like: As it turns out, the use of AI agents will mean that we’ll no longer need keyboards and mice for our computers. According to Weston, keyboards and mice will feel “as alien as DOS” to Gen Z (which seems an odd statement given that Gen Z is already between 13 and 30 years old). Judging by the comments on the video, few are interested in the future being painted. For example, many users say they would rather switch to Linux or Mac than run Windows without a keyboard and mouse. Read...

At a glanceExpert`s Rating Pros Extremely powerful and granular selection criteria Support for legacy and modern storage — including online Excellent performance Anti-ransomware monitoring Cons No disaster recovery Not always easy Minor bugs Pricey given the missing features Our Verdict Retrospect 19 Solo shares many excellent features with its Desktop sibling, including ransomware protection and new support for cloud storage. But it lacks disaster recovery, which is a bit of a gotcha for pay backup software. Price When Reviewed This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined Best Pricing Today Retailer Price Retrospect $49 View Deal Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Best Prices Today: Retrospect Solo Retailer Price Retrospect $49 View Deal Check Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Best Prices Today: Check today’s prices Retrospect 19 Solo shares a lot of useful features with its pricey Desktop sibling — including ransomware protection and fantastically powerful selection criteria. However, what it doesn’t share is arguably the most important feature of pay backup software: disaster recovery. Windows offers several backup tools that take care of data, but its disaster recovery tools are unreliable. Yeah, go figure. The pricier Desktop version of Retrospect 19 does offer disaster recovery. Hint, hint. Read on to learn more, then see our roundup of the best backup software for comparison. What are Retrospect 19 Solo’s features? Retrospect Solo is a stripped down version of a venerable enterprise-level backup program that is sold to smaller businesses and end users. The Desktop and enterprise versions offers features well beyond the scope of most consumer backup products. Solo does not — with one or two exceptions. The most welcome new feature in Retrospect 19 Solo is cloud storage support. This includes third-party services such as Amazon S3 and S3-compatibles, Dropbox, Wasabi, Google cloud, Azure, and even Retrospect’s own (using Wasabi as the back-end). Retrospect 19 now supports cloud storage services. Unfortunately, support for the popular OneDrive and Google Drive have been omitted. Why Dropbox and not those? Don’t know. But the lack is exacerbated by Retropect pricing its own online storage well above the mean. More on that below. On the plus side, there is a new granular compare function that let’s you see the actual differences between your existing data set and a backup. This gives you a bird’s eye view of changes that could indicate suspicious activity, aka ransomware activity. If Retrospect sees a troubling pattern, it will flag it as a possible ransomware attack. More on that later. Features and options include: compression and password–protected encryption; extremely granular scheduling; pre- and post-backup operations; filtering (including a copious helping of presets for common file types); differential, incremental, full, and block-level (only changed portions of a file) backups; deduplication (not backing up copies of the same file); notifications, and most of the bells and whistles found in the backup space. Retrospect features vary by the license you purchase. Alas, Solo lacks many of them. That’s all well and good, but Solo’s lack of disaster recovery is a major issue, dwarfing the lack of backup from NAS, or network locations; and the inability to back up using tape drives. Few users will care that Solo can only run two backups simultaneously, whereas Desktop can run four and some of the Enterprise versions 16. Two is more than most of us need! Not all these types of media are supported by every version of retrospect 19, but they are all supported at some price point. This capture is from the Desktop version, not the affordable Solo, which doesn’t support tape. As to Retrospect 19 Solo’s anti-ransomware features — ransomware is no joke. I was attacked while hosting my website on a local NAS box with an outdated version of WordPress (yes, I know…). A recent local backup (hint, hint…) saved my tuchus, but geez Louise was it a wake-up call! Retrospect’s local anti-ransomware features aren’t real-time like a true anti-malware, anti-data tampering background application such as Acronis True Image, Macrium Reflect, or Windows Defender. Instead, before Retrospect starts backing up, it checks to see how much the data has changed and in what ways. If the number of new or altered files exceeds a user-definable percentage, it cries foul and alerts you; meanwhile not overwriting anything in an existing backup. This is referred to as anomaly detection. If you’re not familiar, most ransomware attacks work by encrypting your files to new ones, deleting the old ones, then ransoming the encryption key. That entails a whole lot of changes, and what Retrospect is looking for. ProactiveAI protects backups if too many changes are registered. Of course, this approach is passive and relies upon your backing up regularly so you can restore the un-ransomed, unencrypted versions of your files. As Retrospect Solo has granular scheduling, I recommend daily as the minimum. The other half of Retrospect’s anti-ransomware solution is interfacing with the immutable data option offered by services such as Backblaze, Wasabi, S3, etc. Immutable data is data that a storage service won’t allow to be altered or deleted for a set period of time — even by known entities, unless specifically disabled. How much does Retrospect 19 cost? Retrospect 19 Solo is $49. That’s a perpetual license for a single computer (Solo). You can also get Annual Support and Maintenance (ASM), which includes more than rudimentary support and updates to new whole number versions should they appear, for an additional $80. Ahem. I should note that some of the competition such as Acronis and Macrium no longer offer perpetual licenses. Hence, over time, Retrospect 19 Solo might be a relative bargain. A Retrospect 19 Solo perpetual license retain all functionality and will receive any dot upgrades — i.e., it’s not subscription software that goes into restore-only mode if you stop paying as do Acronis True Image and Macrium Relfect X. Retrospect Solo is the most affordable version of the program; however, it’s missing some key features such as disaster recovery media. If you want a more detailed breakdown on the differences between versions of Retrospect, check the comparison chart on the Retrospect site. As you can see below, the Wasabi-powered Retrospect cloud storage is a bit pricey for the average user. Did I say a bit? I meant a whole lot. In point of fact, it’s three times Wasabi itself, which was $7 per TB per month at the time of this writing. Err… Retrospect Cloud Storage is Wasabi- based and somewhat pricey. Even though Retrospect Solo 19 makes it a tad difficult to use third-party online storage, I can’t recommend a service that’s three times the cost of others. Even if it’s slightly easier to use. As to that… Is Retrospect 19 Solo easy to learn and use? Retrospect 19 Solo’s interface is a bit dated in appearance, but the major learning hurdles come from it operating differently from most backup programs. Everything makes sense in the end and the power and versatility of pricier versions can be worth it, but the program’s approach simply makes for a steep learning curve. A good long look at the Retrospect 19 users guide is almost a necessity. Thank me later. As to some of the particulars… First off, the program’s vernacular is off the beaten path. Data repositories to be backed up are defined as “Volumes,” which can be drives, per normal nomenclature, but also clients on other computers, or files and folders, which are added under “Subvolumes,” and “Defined as volumes.” Destinations are “Backup sets,” which makes sense when it comes to sets of media you might rotate (which Solo does not help with), but isn’t intuitive to the average user. BTW, rotating means swapping out multiple discrete media according to a schedule — say, employing seven hard drives, optical disc/tape “Devices,” and using each only on a specific day of the week. This is really an enterprise deal where carousels and tape libraries are still common. “Selecting” is where you find the filters that skip or include various types of files. This is an area where Retrospect really shines — you can apply any number of rules or criteria about what to back up and what to skip. It’s also likely overkill for the average user. Jobs are “Scripts,” which aren’t created until you schedule a job created with Backup Now. Extremely efficient but not entirely intuitive. Scripts are not found under the Backup, but the Configure section of the function tree at the left of the main window. You can apply any number of rules or criteria about what to back up and what to skip. Scripts are created when you add a schedule to a Backup Now task. Retrospect uses discrete catalogs, aka indexes, for its backups and these are stored separately (with the rest of the program data) from the backup. Most backup programs store indexes inside the backup container, or along with it. Discrete catalogs have a great advantage in speed when retrieving data from a slow medium such as tape. Solo does not support tape, so catalogs could be seen as an unnecessary adjunct for mainstream users. You can, of course, rebuild the catalog from the backup should you somehow lose the original — however, this can be a rather lengthy procedure. I had to do it once with tape. Never again. The company recommends that you back up these catalogs to external media for access in case you need to perform a full system recovery from a crashed computer. These are just some of the myriad options available within Retrospect. Retrospect is decently easy to use once you know it, but it’s obvious that functionality was removed from Solo without proper adjustment to the interface. The program will actually let you select a network resource to back up (see above), but then not back it up, with an error in the log that basically says “not allowed by license.” Sloppy. Adding a cloud destination requires either providing keys from your storage provider, or signing in to the service via web access. However, this must be done for every different backup. Perhaps this is more secure, but it’s most certainly a pain during setup. Most backup programs retain their storage service connections. So, no, Retrospect 19 Solo is not easy to learn, but yes, once you know it, it’s easy enough to use. It is extremely versatile and powerful, but if you’re looking for simplicity then Retrospect 19 Solo is quite likely not your cup of tea. How does Retrospect 19 perform? To confirm that Retrospect’s backup engine hadn’t gone AWOL after 30 years (it hasn’t), I ran a host of backups: full, differential, and several incrementals, targeting a 10Gbps USB SSD, the network, and internal NVMe SSDs. As expected, Retrospect purred like a kitten during those backups and the subsequent restores. Even with two backups going at once. Indeed, the only times I’ve ever had an issue with a Retrospect backup, it was a problem with the media — back in the days of, yes, tape. I also tested the anomaly detection by altering and renaming files in various numbers, and Retrospect detected those changes as advertised. While it is nice that you can select network sources with the Desktop version of Retrospect, this is the Solo version, and the folder I selected was never backed up. Retrospect 19 Solo was perfection when it came to both the backup and restore operations that it supports. Faster than most, glitch-free, and with accurate feedback on the progress of backups — something not a lot of backup programs provide. I have zero qualms about Retrospect 19 Solo’s reliability and performance, it’s merely a matter of value. Should you buy retrospect 19 Solo? Honestly, no. The steep learning curve, but most especially the lack of disaster recovery makes it largely an unnecessary expenditure. You can do roughly the same thing using Windows File history. Retrospect 19 Desktop is a different kettle of fish. It’s initially pricey at $169 for the perpetual license, but it has the disaster recovery, network backup, and extensive hardware support that Solo lacks. But there are plenty of more affordable (some free) options than either Retrospect version out there. Easeus Todo Backup, Aomei Backupper, and Minitool ShadowMaker to name a few. Check out the best backup software hub for even more choices. Read...

So many people haven’t been able to upgrade their older Windows computers to Windows 11 because of the latter’s TPM 2.0 hardware requirement. (Learn more about why you need TPM 2.0 for Windows 11, why TPM 2.0 makes PCs better, and why Microsoft is adamant about not letting older PCs without TPM 2.0 run Windows 11.) Some users, however, are saying that they’ve been offered upgrades to Windows 11 on older PCs that don’t meet the TPM 2.0 hardware requirements, reports Neowin. It’s a bit of a head-scratcher since Microsoft hasn’t announced anything official about lowering the system requirements for Windows 11, but this isn’t the first time the company has offered Windows 11 upgrades on incompatible computers that don’t meet the requirements. get windows 11 pro for cheap Windows 11 Pro It’s highly likely that this is a bug or an exception. Some users have reported that their system theoretically had TPM 2.0 but was manually disabled it before the update was offered. Whether Microsoft makes a distinction here, however, is questionable. So far, Microsoft has not deviated from its strict hardware requirements for Windows 11. However, users who want to receive an additional year of security updates on Windows 10 can now sign up for the ESU program. If we hear anything official about relaxed requirements, we will inform you accordingly. Until then, however, you should assume that TPM 2.0 will continue to be a requirement for all Windows 11 PCs. Read...

Welcome to The Full Nerd newsletter—your weekly dose of hardcore hardware talk from the enthusiasts at PCWorld. Missed the hot-burning topics our YouTube show or latest news across the web? You’re in the right place. Want this newsletter to come directly to your inbox? Sign up on our website! Recently, I chatted with Hyte about case design—not just the genesis of the company’s imminent X50 and X50 Air, but the drive behind what ultimately lands on our desks. And since that discussion, a provocative quote from Rob Teller, Hyte’s product director, has been on my mind: “When I look at computer cases, I really look at them as fashion, far more than I look at them as technology as this point.” Teller isn’t new to the industry. His history includes stints at NZXT and Alienware before his time at Hyte. He’s had a front-row seat to design shifts over the past 20 years. And for that reason, his words lodged in my brain as quiet but revolutionary. I’d never before considered a world where PCs don’t look like computers. Is that playing around with semantics? A little. But I’d argue we all collectively buy into the idea that a computer can be identified on sight—an attitude created with the first personal computers and carried through the decades since. Systems like the IBM PC, the first computer I ever used, had distinctive boxy styling. The PC that replaced that squat white-and-gray Intel 8088 machine was even bigger, a thick slab with double floppy drives, an Intel 286, and an intermittent whine I fixed with varying levels of percussive maintenance. I lost most of my desk space to each of those PCs, but I accepted their footprints. Their bulk represented progress. Wikipedia Today, boxiness and bulk still signal that you’re looking at a computer. Consider the landscape: Mid-tower ATX cases dominate. E-ATX implies a build aiming to absolutely rip in performance. Meanwhile, color and size options remain constrained. Designs that stray into unique territory are generally the work of modders. Even the living room gaming PC I’m building right now stands out as such. The case is a Jonsbo C6, a small black cube that I think is cute. But it’s not going to match anything of my friend’s decor. I wonder if The Full Nerd crew’s polarized reactions to the Hyte X50 stems from this embedded perception of a computer’s looks. Adam hated it—too bubbly, too round. I liked that it could blend in with a whole home’s vibe, even if you could immediately recognize it as a PC case. A clash perhaps between what we think the future should look like (currently clean lines and minimalist) versus realizing what it could look like. Don’t get me wrong, I loved messing around with that IBM PC, even if I never could program in BASIC to save my life. But I have no need to hang on to its aesthetic to believe in the future. That’s the job of the hardware inside. In this episode of The Full Nerd… Willis Lai / Foundry In this episode of The Full Nerd, Alaina Yee, Will Smith, and special guest Nathan Edwards of The Verge chat about malware sneaking into Steam games and what makes for an ideal custom keyboard. As was likely inevitable with a reunion of former Maximum PC editors, we end up zigzagging often during the conversation, with tangents galore. My favorite tangent of a tangent of a tangent: Nathan’s explanation of how to revive a PC from death, after being submersed in flood water for three days. Also useful, though not a tangent: Nathan’s top recommendations for mechanical keyboard kits under $150. Tangent. We even talked ergo keyboards during the show! (Pictured here: the Keychron Q11.)Alaina Yee / Foundry Missed our live show? Subscribe now to The Full Nerd YouTube channel, and activate notifications. We also answer viewer questions in real-time!  And if you need more hardware talk during the rest of the week, come join our Discord community—it’s full of cool, laid-back nerds. This week’s unusual nerd news Adam’s on vacation this week, which means I had no one to relay word to about more scented thermal paste. Who would have known other people agree with him about this need in our lives? Why a single-slot RTX 5090? Again, the perennial answer: Why not?Inno3D You can store data on a bird: Is Dan Brown still writing novels? Because this seems like the perfect opener for his kind of plots. PC Gamer says this controller shouldn’t exist: I’m not going to say the sentiment is wrong. But at the same time, if it were to exist, someone would immediately try to correct for its (glaring) flaws. I would want to see that. I might even put money toward that. A single-slot RTX 5090? Sure, why not: The whole point here is the excuse to flex on everyone with your custom cooling skill, yes? Yes. Microsoft Copilot now has a face: I said a lot of things aloud at my desk when I read this. I can’t repeat them here. Let’s just file this under, “Who asked for this?” I might be down for blossom-scented thermal paste: Don’t tell Adam I said this. Can you spot fake AI images? (The answer is no): As it turns out, we humans are not as good as we think at identifying fake content. Oh dear.Reddit Please science, save us all: I actually think periodically about our fresh water supplies, and what that could look like in the coming decades. So hearing even preliminary good news about transforming saltwater into drinkable water is comforting. I believe the answer is ‘no’: Okay, first—kudos to this Redditor for asking other people’s opinions. I fully commend that instinct. It’s a good one. That said, this picture of this GPU slotted into a machine gave me a mild nightmare. Literally. I read this post just before bedtime. Have threads, will rip: Steve Burke over at Gamers Nexus released the team’s review of one of AMD’s newest Threadripper chips, the 64-core 9980X. I bet myself how fast I’d find comments about watching the gaming benchmark results first. I both won and lost. Roblox’s CEO needs a reality check: No. Nobody wants Roblox to start a dating service within the game. Meanwhile, Valve’s president administers a reality check: Gabe Newell’s take on following your passion is surprisingly solid life advice. That’s so even before considering a massive gaming company’s head honcho doled out this advice while the games industry is painfully contracting. Catch you all next week—when I’ll likely be exhausted from fighting everyone during the return of the Hardware Hall of Fame. Don’t forget to submit your nominees for award contention! You can share them with us on our Discord server, via email at thefullnerd@pcworld.com, or giving me a holler over on Bluesky. Alaina This newsletter is dedicated to the memory of Gordon Mah Ung, founder and host of The Full Nerd, and executive editor of hardware at PCWorld. Read...