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What does it mean to use technology productively? Which apps and gadgets make your work easier? How to personalize the computers and other gadgets you’re using?

article How to subscribe to Digital Citizen & spread the word!

How to subscribe to Digital Citizen & spread the word!

While major tech platforms like Google increasingly favor AI-generated content and corporate publishers, independent voices like Digital Citizen face an unprecedented challenge. Our traffic has plummeted 40% since November 2023 – and a staggering 53% compared to November 2022. We’re not alone in this struggle; many independent publications have already shut their doors in 2024. Yet we don’t want to give up. We want
tutorial How to enable, disable, and configure AutoPlay in Windows 11

How to enable, disable, and configure AutoPlay in Windows 11

Are you tired of the constant pop-ups asking you to choose what happens every time you plug in a USB drive or insert a memory card into your Windows 11 PC? They’re managed by a feature named AutoPlay, which can either be a reliable friend or persistent annoyance, depending on how you configure it. In this guide, I share how to take control of
tutorial How to rewrite text with Notepad using AI in Windows 11

How to rewrite text with Notepad using AI in Windows 11

Microsoft is busy infusing many of its Windows apps with features based on artificial intelligence (AI). One of the apps that now benefits from AI is Notepad, but only in Windows 11. Starting in November 2024, Microsoft has added a Rewrite function in Notepad, which helps users improve their writing with the assistance of a sophisticated AI model called GPT. This model can rephrase
tutorial How to install Windows 11 for free

How to install Windows 11 for free

The latest update for Windows 11, version 24H2, is now available for download and installation. This update introduces numerous features and improvements, including a new setup wizard. Consequently, the procedure for installing Windows 11 has changed, offering different options for partitioning your computer and a new personalization wizard. If you need assistance downloading and installing Windows 11, whether from a USB drive, DVD, or
tutorial How to change permissions and take ownership of files and folders in Windows

How to change permissions and take ownership of files and folders in Windows

Switching to a new operating system or moving your data can sometimes cause frustrating problems when trying to access your files and folders. This usually happens because your current user account doesn’t have ownership or the correct permissions for those files and folders. To overcome such issues, in this guide, I’ll help you understand how to see, change permissions, and take ownership of files
review NZXT H7 Flow 2024 review: A PC case with exceptional airflow

NZXT H7 Flow 2024 review: A PC case with exceptional airflow

When you’re assembling a high-performance PC, the case you choose is important. It doesn’t just alter the way your computer looks, but also how well it works and stays cool. The NZXT H7 Flow is one of the best cases from NZXT, and the latest 2024 model promises great airflow, a well-thought-out design, and easy-to-use features. I spent some time building a system with
tutorial How to check the Microsoft Edge version you’re using

How to check the Microsoft Edge version you’re using

In recent years, Microsoft Edge has evolved into a compelling browser, gaining popularity for its innovative features and robust performance. With features like vertical tabs, workspaces, seamless Copilot integration, energy efficiency, and cross-platform compatibility (spanning Windows, Android, and iOS), Edge has become the main web browser for many users. If you are using Microsoft Edge and are unsure whether you have the latest version,
tutorial How to add or remove the seconds from the Windows 11 clock

How to add or remove the seconds from the Windows 11 clock

Some people want their Windows 11 clock to show the seconds, not just the hours and minutes, as it does by default. This wasn’t possible in the initial version of Windows 11, but Microsoft added this feature in an update released in July 2023. Then, the company changed how you can add the seconds to the Windows clock, when Windows 11 version 24H2 came
article PCIe 5.0 vs. PCIe 4.0 for SSDs: Is it worth upgrading?

PCIe 5.0 vs. PCIe 4.0 for SSDs: Is it worth upgrading?

In recent years, computer storage tech has been evolving at a fast pace, and it’s visibly changing how we use our computers. PCIe 5.0 SSDs, the latest consumer-grade upgrade in this process, are becoming more common, and some people are asking if it’s worth upgrading from their already fast PCIe 4.0 SSDs. To help you make an informed decision and understand what to expect,
review CORSAIR MP700 PRO review: Top-tier PCIe 5.0 performance

CORSAIR MP700 PRO review: Top-tier PCIe 5.0 performance

When it comes to high-performance storage, CORSAIR is a name that often stands out, and their latest MP700 PRO solid-state drives are here to attest to that. Available in 4 TB, 2 TB, and 1 TB sizes, these NVMe M.2 drives use the extremely fast PCIe 5.0 interface to deliver incredible speeds for both reading and writing data. If you’re after a high-performance SSD,
article What is PCI Express? Do PCIe lanes, slots, and versions matter?

What is PCI Express? Do PCIe lanes, slots, and versions matter?

PCI Express is one of the most important technologies for modern computing, powering the connections between motherboards and high-performance peripherals like graphics cards, solid-state drives, and network adapters. In this article, I try to shed some light on what PCIe lanes are, what types of PCIe slots are there, and what to expect from each PCIe version. So, if you want to know more
review ASUS ProArt X870E-CREATOR WIFI review: For content creators!

ASUS ProArt X870E-CREATOR WIFI review: For content creators!

The options for building a new computer based on the latest AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 Series processors are quite generous, with professionals having plenty of motherboards and chipsets to choose from. One of the most interesting is the ASUS ProArt X870E-CREATOR WIFI, a motherboard featuring the high-end X870E chipset, capable of delivering extreme performance and offering a wealth of expansion options and
review ASRock X870E Taichi review: A large and feature-rich motherboard

ASRock X870E Taichi review: A large and feature-rich motherboard

The ASRock X870E Taichi is a premium motherboard built for gamers and enthusiasts who want the best in performance and features. Designed to handle AMD’s latest processors, this motherboard brings impressive upgrades, like support for ultra-fast PCIe 5.0, DDR5 memory, and USB4 connectivity. However, it’s not just about speed; ASRock has also focused on durability, cooling, and power to ensure stability even during intense
review G.Skill Trident Z5 Neo RGB DDR5-6000 review

G.Skill Trident Z5 Neo RGB DDR5-6000 review

When building a high-performance gaming PC or workstation, the right choice in terms of memory can make all the difference. The G.Skill Trident Z5 Neo RGB DDR5-6000 32GB RAM kit is designed to work with the latest processors, including AMD’s Ryzen 9000 series processors and it includes RGB lighting for those who want it. This DDR5 memory kit promises to offer an excellent balance
tutorial How to configure and test your microphone in Windows 11

How to configure and test your microphone in Windows 11

If you want to benefit from clear and high-quality audio during voice calls, video conferences, audio recordings, or while streaming content online, you need to configure and test your microphone. The good news is that Windows 11 gives you all the settings and tools you need to test your microphone, adjust mic sensitivity, and boost your microphone volume. In this guide, I’ll show how
review AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D review: The best gaming processor?

AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D review: The best gaming processor?

Most gaming processors make big promises, but finding one that delivers isn't as easy as it should be. One of the few that does deliver is the Ryzen 7 7800X3D. So, when I heard that AMD is launching a successor for it, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D, I was very interested in testing it. While its predecessor is a solid choice for gamers, this new
tutorial How to enter the UEFI BIOS from Windows 10 (7 ways)

How to enter the UEFI BIOS from Windows 10 (7 ways)

Do you need to know how to access UEFI (BIOS) on your computer, because you want or need to adjust hardware settings, manage your boot devices, or maybe even overclock your processor? If you’re wondering how to enter BIOS on a Windows 10 device, know that there are several ways to do so. In this tutorial, I’ll show you all the different methods I