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Navigating the Virtual High Seas: Tips for Mastering Skull and Bones
In the vast digital seas of gaming, Ubisoft’s Skull and Bones stands out as a thrilling adventure where players command powerful ships, navigate treacherous waters, and engage in fierce naval battles. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a novice mariner, mastering the game requires strategy, skill, and a keen understanding of its mechanics.
The World of Skull and Bones
Touted by Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot as a quadruple-A title, the Skull and Bones game transports players to the Golden Age of Piracy in the early 18th century, a time when the open seas were a battleground for ruthless pirates and colonial powers. As an aspiring pirate captain, your goal is to build an unstoppable pirate empire by raiding merchant shipping routes, plundering valuable cargo and resources, upgrading your ships, recruiting skilled crew members, and forming temporary or permanent alliances with other captains.
Inspired by classic pirate tales and lore, the game's setting is richly detailed, with sprawling ocean vistas, bustling ports, and remote islands waiting to be explored. From verdant coastal regions in East Africa to lush tropical islands in the Dutch East indies, every location teems with life and history, making the world of Skull and Bones feel vibrant and immersive. Other Ubisoft games, notably Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, also had a major influence on gameplay in Skull and Bones.
The cast of characters you'll encounter includes historical figures like Olivier “La Buse” Levasseur, a real-life French pirate, and a motley crew of buccaneers, merchants, and local governors. Each character offers quests and challenges that contribute to your infamy and progression.
Building Your Armada: Choosing the Right Ship
The game features a diverse selection of ships, each with distinct strengths and weaknesses. In at least one Skull and Bones review, critics mention ship customization, which you should take advantage of. Carefully consider your playstyle when selecting and customizing your vessel.
* Early Maneuvers: Beginners should opt for smaller, nimble ships. These are easier to control and navigate in tight spaces. The Dhow is a great starting choice.
* Mid-game Might: As you progress, consider transitioning to heavier ships like the Frigate or Brigantine. These offer superior firepower and durability for taking on tougher enemies.
* End-game Domination: For endgame content and intense player versus player (PvP) battles, heavily armored ships like the Man O’War or the Vanguard become the ultimate weapons.
Creating a balanced fleet is also crucial for success. A well-rounded fleet might include fast and agile ships for scouting and skirmishing, heavily armed vessels for frontline combat, and support ships equipped with healing abilities or area-of-effect buffs. By coordinating your fleet effectively, you can overcome even the most formidable foes and dominate the high seas.
Assembling Your Crew
No pirate ship is complete without a diverse crew of salty seadogs. Successfully raiding ships and fortresses requires specialists like gunners, navigators, and quartermasters, to ensure that your ship operates at peak efficiency. Recruit specialists at taverns or by plundering enemies. Each crew member increases combat effectiveness, but also consumes supplies like food and alcohol. Invest in crew training and upgrades to unlock new abilities and improve their performance in battle. Properly provisioning your crew (and keeping them sated with bumper grog rations) is key to maintaining morale and performance.
Communication is key when working with your crewmates, especially in multiplayer modes where teamwork is essential for victory. Coordinate your actions, share information about enemy positions and tactics, and support each other in times of crisis.
Plundering for Resources and Rarities
https://youtu.be/zfaGhvPNDEs?si=VmErUgEB3WNPeyQA
The fundamental pirate gameplay loop involves raiding merchant shipping lanes and coastal settlements for precious cargo and resources. Plan your strategic routes and positioning, exploiting environmental terrain and chokepoints.
Establish intelligence networks in key ports to get wind of rich, poorly defended targets. Use your fastest ships to scout ahead and set ambushes to outmaneuver and overwhelm convoys. Relentless cannon bombardment may sink a prized merchant ship—but surgical boarding parties can capture cargo and prisoners for profit.
Important resources to plunder include:
* Gold and jewels to purchase upgrades and repairs
* Food and alcohol for reprovisioning
* Lumber and metal for repairing and refitting ships
* Rare crafting materials like ivory for elite gear
* Maps and intel on future targets
You can use your hard-earned plunder to customize and optimize your ships, hideout, and crew. Improve your sails and rigging to improve ship speed, reinforce hulls to increase armor and ramming strength, and add mortars and flamethrowers to your arsenal of weapons. You can also upgrade your pirate haven into an unimpregnable fortress.
Always analyze the risk/reward of each target—a heavily armed galleon may yield huge plunder, but losses could cripple your fleet. Smart pirates know when to fight another day. Additionally, keep a close watch on rivals making moves—you may need to quickly adapt your approach to counter emerging threats.
Online Cooperative Play and PvP
The real pirate's life is a brutal free-for-all, but Skull and Bones encourages temporary alliances. In online co-op sessions, partner with fellow pirates to take down juicy targets too formidable for single players. Orchestrate cunning combined arms maneuvers with allies flanking and focusing fire.
But be wary: truces and pacts in Skull and Bones are notoriously fleeting. Inevitably, you'll need to betray your comrades and usurp their plunder. The best pirate alliances are disposable—and short.
For the most cutthroat players, anarchic PvP arenas allow you to assemble pirate armadas and vie for regional domination against rival players and crews. In arenas, coordination and communication are paramount. Scout ahead, set ambushes, divide and conquer weaker groups. The most cohesive, disciplined crews will rise to the tops of the leaderboards.
The PC version of the game offers uncapped framerates to take full advantage of high-end hardware, like Acer’s Nitro 70 Gaming Desktop. Pair it with the 31.5“ Nitro XV2 Gaming Monitor to experience Skull and Bones in 4K. And in a welcome move for multiplayer enthusiasts, PC gamers can cross-play the game with those using PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S consoles.
Rookie Mistakes to Avoid
As you embark on your pirate journey in Skull and Bones, beware of common pitfalls that can hinder your progress and lead to frustration. They include:
* Wasting resources on cosmetic upgrades for more vital needs
* Not making full use of the warehouse and losing precious inventory when a ship goes down
* Failing to balance your fleet composition and crew specialization
* Neglecting crew conditions like battle fatigue, low morale, and hunger
* Focusing solely on combat
Mastering Skull & Bones takes time and practice, so don’t be discouraged by setbacks or defeats. Remember to learn from your mistakes, adapt your strategies, and keep striving for improvement with each new challenge.
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About Lalaine Capucion: Lalaine has been working as a freelance writer and editor for more than 12 years, focusing on lifestyle, travel, and wellness. When she isn’t writing, she's most likely curled up with a good book or trying out a new recipe in the kitchen. She lives in Metro Manila, Philippines.
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Predator Helios 300 SpatialLabs™ Edition: Play Games in 3D Without the Glasses
Step into the next dimension of glasses-free 3D gaming with Acer’s incredible Predator Helios 300 SpatialLabs Edition gaming laptop. Are you under the impression that 3D gaming requires specialist peripherals like headache inducing clunky glasses? If so, we invite you to reconsider your perspective, and take a look at this mind-blowing glasses-free 3D gaming laptop. The Helios 300 SpatialLabs Edition is truly the first of its kind, a gaming laptop with a stereoscopic 3D display, bringing your favorite AAA titles to life in full 3D glory.
Sounds appealing? Well the Predator Helios 300 SpatialLabs Edition is a game changing, powerful, and stylish laptop that’s ready to hurl your gaming into the third dimension! Read on to discover all you need to know about the glasses-free 3D gaming revolution!
What, exactly is SpatialLabs?
Acer SpatialLabs view series displays are a next generation technology featuring built-in immersive stereoscopic 3D for both gamers and creators. You may have heard of the groundbreaking Predator Helios 300 SpatialLabs Edition, or perhaps the Predator SpatialLabs View 27 monitor at CES 2024. If not, fear not, before we dive into the tech-specs of the Predator Helios 300 SpatialLabs Edition, let’s cover the innovative technology behind Acer’s glasses-free 3D gaming.
SpatialLabs works by combining an LCD lenticular lens overlay on the screen with state-of-the-art eye-tracking technology. In practice, what this means is that the SpatialLabs technology creates a pair of images, and by tracking where your eyes are, projects each of the images to the location of each of your eyes. So, while you’re gaming or viewing images, the tracking camera communicates with the display, offsetting each of the two images to add depth, delivering a glasses-free, totally immersive, consistently smooth 3D gaming experience.
Aside from gaming, the stereoscopic display is the perfect tool for creation. Next-gen shading and driver tech lets you render games in true-to-life depth, while AI assistance accelerates conversion: machine-learning models enable fully automatic conversion of 2D to 3D, all in real-time. And, no, you don’t have to stay as still as a statue while you’re playing, or working, the cameras track both eye and head movement, so you can move about a bit without compromising the quality of your gaming or creation.
Introducing the Predator Helios 300 SpatialLabs Edition
Did you check out our review of the Helios 300? In case you missed it, or need to brush up on your Greek mythology, Helios was the sun god: by day, he drove his chariot from east to west across the sky, bringing daylight to the earth. By night, he sailed around the northerly stream of the Ocean in a huge cup. If you want to jump into glasses-free 3D game adventures like Helios might have dreamed of doing, then the Predator Helios 300 SpatialLabs Edition will get you where you need to go!
This is a 15.6-inch gaming laptop that comes armed with a 12th Gen Intel® Core™ i9 Processor, GeForce RTX™ 3080 graphics power, and Windows 11 Home, and 32 GB DDR5 memory. Let’s have a closer look at the impressive tech-specs:
* Operating System: Windows 11 Home 64-bit
* Processor: Intel® Core™ i9-12900H Processor
* Graphics Card: Nvidia® GeForce RTX™ 3080 with 8 GB dedicated memory
* Display: 15.6” LED 3840 x 2160, 60 Hz IPS SpatialLabs glasses-free 3D screen, 350 nits
* Memory: 32 GB DDR5 4800MHz
* Storage: 2 TB
* Wireless: Killer AX1675i Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 Bluetooth 5.2
* Built in Devices: Microphone
* Interfaces/Ports: 1 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x Thunderbolt 4 Type-C, 2 x USB-A 3.2, 1 x USB-A 3.1, mini DisplayPort, gigabit Ethernet, 3.5mm headset jack, 1 x Kensington Lock
* Input: Per-key RGB backlit keyboard, Precision TouchPad
* Battery: 90Wh
* Dimensions: 12.4 x 8.7 x 0.70 inches
* Weight (Approx): 5.7 lb
The power to adventure in 3D, and stay cool
Available in abyssal black, this understated, stylish metal powerhouse of a gaming laptop has lots of great hardware under the hood. As we mentioned above, the Predator Helios 300 SpatialLabs Edition comes with a 12th Gen Intel® Core™ i9 Processor. Combined with Windows 11 Home OS, the 12th Gen processor ensures ultimate gaming performance, as well as the ability to effortlessly multitask.
Featuring groundbreaking new architecture that matches the correct core to the correct workload, with up to 14 cores and up to 20 threads, gaming bliss and more pedestrian background tasks can co-exist without skipping a beat. So, whether you’re gaming on-the-go, editing, recording, editing, browsing, chatting or even streaming, the Predator Helios 300 SpatialLabs Edition has got you covered.
Cool running temps are what you’ve come to expect from Acer’s gaming computers, and the Predator Helios 300 SpatialLabs Edition is no exception. Play as hard and fast as you please, and count on truly next-gen cooling technology to keep temps comfortably low with custom-engineered 5th Gen AeroBlade 3D Fan Technology, augmented by automated CoolBoost, as well as the the super-chill effects of Liquid Metal thermal grease.
Graphic support
Featuring Nvidia GeForce RTX 30 series GPUs, the Predator Helios 300 SpatialLabs Edition will help you forge your quest for victory in your favorite 3D titles. With graphics powered by Nvidia’s 2nd Gen RTX Ampere architecture, life-like immersive 3D gaming experiences come alive. RTX 30 series of GPUs feature a suite of AI powered technologies including Nvidia Max-Q for optimal performance in thin, high performance laptops.
30 series GPUs are powered by Nvidia’s 2nd Gen RTX Ampere architecture, offering an extra AI performance boost from Nvidia DLSS. Crank the settings and resolution for a mind-blowing visual experience, truly pushing the limits of gaming speed and performance, without compromising image quality. On top of this, ray tracing simulates real-world light, creating beyond life-like virtual worlds for you to explore. The Predator Helios 300 SpatialLabs edition provides AI powered boost for turbo charged, fluid gaming, creation, and much, much more.
SpatialLabs screen
Alternate with ease between 2D in 4K and 3D in 2K at 60Hz on the beautiful 15.6-inch display, and enter the SpatialLabs Experience center to control your 3D world. SpatialLabs TrueGame is a user-friendly app to access a range of AAA titles and enter the new dimension of 3D gaming. Rooms appear like 3D holograms, with layered objects, and smooth, real-time adventures in the new era of glasses-free 3D gaming. Standout titles currently available in 3D include God of War, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt - Complete Edition, as well as No Man’s Sky.
While the Helios 300 SpatialLabs Edition is a gaming oriented laptop, SpatialLabs Experience also lets you transform your preferred content, including photos, videos, and even video calls into lush simulated 3D via SpatialLabs Go. On top of this, the SpatialLabs Player app presents side-by-side video in stereoscopic 3D.
The takeaway
We hope that you have enjoyed our brief foray into the Predator Helios 300 SpatialLabs Edition, a glasses-free 3D gaming laptop that promises to break the boundaries of visualization. Remember that more and more of your favorite titles are making their way to the immersive 3D gaming made possible by Acer’s SpatialLabs technology. Are you in the market to enter the new era of 3D gaming, on a gaming laptop that also has the power to handle all of your editing and multitasking needs? Predator Helios 300 SpatialLabs edition delivers all this, as well as glasses-free, immersive 3D experiences, so do yourself a favor and go check out this laptop today, and open up a truly new perspective!
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The Best Gaming YouTubers to Watch for Walkthroughs, Tips, and More
Gaming YouTubers have carved out a massive space in the ever-evolving world of entertainment. As these digital superstars entertain millions of viewers with their charismatic personalities, humorous narrations, and informative reviews, they are redefining the way we experience video games. Gaming channels on YouTube provide a broad variety of content, from recordings of creators playing a video game and providing commentary (also known as “Let’s Play” videos) to walkthroughs, gameplay tips, reviews, and gaming news. Not sure where to begin? Here are some of the most popular gaming-related YouTube channels.
PewDiePie
Real name: Felix Kjellberg
Location: United Kingdom
Subscribers: 111 million
PewDiePie gained fame through his Let’s Play videos. His comedic style quickly garnered a massive following, and his irreverent humor and energetic personality have kept viewers coming back for more. His content has evolved to include vlogs, meme reviews, and commentary on internet culture. Today, PewDiePie is one of the biggest YouTubers in general, not just in gaming. Critics and fans often praise his unique approach to content creation and his influence on the YouTube gaming community.
Jacksepticeye
Real name: Seán William McLoughlin
Location: Ireland
Subscribers: 30.7 million
Jacksepticeye is popular for his enthusiastic Let’s Play videos that cover a large assortment of games. While he primarily focuses on comedic playthroughs, his channel also features challenges and vlogs. His fans often describe his content as lively and genuine, saying they appreciate his positive energy and sense of community. Outside of gaming, McLoughlin frequently engages in charity work, hosting live streams to raise funds for various causes and further endearing him to his audience.
DanTDM
https://youtu.be/YO7npVqx6ow?si=rn07Q7FVHCCacpx-
Real name: Daniel Middleton
Location: United Kingdom
Subscribers: 28.7 million
DanTDM is known for his Minecraft content, which includes challenges, adventures, and mod showcases, but his channel also features Roblox and other family-friendly games. Focused on storytelling and creativity, his videos are beloved for their engaging style. Fans appreciate his wholesome approach that’s great for younger audiences. Middleton has also authored books and toured internationally, solidifying his status as one of the leading family-friendly gaming creators on YouTube.
Markiplier
Real name: Mark Edward Fischbach
Location: USA
Subscribers: 36.6 million
Characterized by his deep voice, intense reactions, and expressive commentary, Markiplier specializes in Let’s Play videos with a comedic twist. He often plays horror and survival games but also explores a wide variety of genres. Fans appreciate his vulnerability and his efforts to support charitable causes through fundraising streams. His content often blends humor, suspense, and personal stories, creating a strong sense of community among his viewers.
MrBeast Gaming
Real name: Jimmy Donaldson
Location: USA
Subscribers: 43.2 million
While the main MrBeast channel is famous for large-scale challenges and philanthropy, MrBeast Gaming is where Donaldson indulges his passion for gaming. He posts entertaining gameplay videos and elaborate gaming contests with high-stakes prizes. Competitive games like Minecraft and Roblox feature often, and there’s a strong focus on creativity and community. Fans appreciate MrBeast’s willingness to push the boundaries of gaming challenges and his ability to engage audiences with his energetic style.
The Game Theorists
https://youtu.be/mvUwLmOoTrA?si=xXXNV5nd7-dCY3q-
Real name: Matthew “MatPat” Patrick
Location: USA
Subscribers: 19.2 million
The Game Theorists is a YouTube channel that explores the scientific concepts behind popular video games and the hidden stories within them. Combining in-depth analysis with humor and engaging storytelling, host MatPat delves deep into game theory, often incorporating elements of physics, psychology, and history. He also tackles video game lore, theories, and Easter eggs. Viewers appreciate his knack for connecting gaming to broader topics and dissecting complex gaming elements while keeping the content entertaining and accessible.
VanossGaming
Real name: Evan Fong
Location: USA
Subscribers: 25.9 million
Fong is known for collaborating with other YouTubers like Nogla and Terroriser—also known as members of the “Vanoss Crew”—on funny gaming montages and collaborative gameplay videos. Their content is often heavily edited for a fast-paced and meme-filled experience. Fans appreciate the lighthearted chaos and camaraderie between the crew members. The VanossGaming channel highlights a variety of games, including Grand Theft Auto V, Garry’s Mod, and Call of Duty.
More YouTube Gaming Channels to Check Out
Beyond the giants of gaming YouTube, there’s a vast and vibrant world of niche creators. Fans of indie games can explore channels like Splattercat, which offers in-depth reviews of a wide range of indie games, and GabSmolders, which features Let’s Plays, reviews, and walkthroughs, particularly in the horror genre. Retro gaming enthusiasts can turn to Retro Bird for light-hearted reviews, playthroughs, and retrospectives, or to LGR for deep dives into retro tech, including vintage games, obscure consoles, and forgotten peripherals. These are just a few examples, and with a little searching, you’re sure to find passionate YouTubers dedicated to your favorite gaming niche.
Gaining intel, strategies, and tips from watching the top gaming YouTubers will help you level up in your favorite video games, but another way to enhance your gaming sessions is to ensure you’ve got a good setup. Featuring powerful processors, DDR5 RAM, and up to a lightning-fast 165Hz refresh rate, the Nitro V 15 Gaming Laptop is great for gaming (and watching your favorite YouTubers) on the go.
Whether you’re interested in the gaming channels with the most subscribers or looking for a lesser known creator with a specific niche, there’s a gamer on YouTube waiting to entertain and educate you, and maybe even rage-quit alongside you. Happy gaming!
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About Micah Sulit: Micah is a writer and editor with a focus on lifestyle topics like tech, wellness, and travel. She loves writing while sipping an iced mocha in a cafe, preferably one in a foreign city. She's based in Manila, Philippines.
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10 Best Websites to Get a TEFL Certificate
A Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certificate is an internationally recognized qualification and opens a world of teaching opportunities in countries like Vietnam, China, and Thailand. TEFL certification is often the minimum requirement to teach English abroad and helps aspiring teachers get a headstart in the teaching industry. TEFL learners do not need any prior degrees or qualifications in education, as the course offers four key learning styles and lesson planning and presentation tips to help them deliver top-notch English classes to non-native speakers. Once finished, TEFL graduates can opt for an in-person teaching career, deliver classes from the comfort of their own homes, or pursue a digital nomad lifestyle.
Nowadays, many websites offer TEFL certification online. Here are our top-10 picks
1. Bridge TEFL
With over 70,000 graduates, Bridge TEFL offers comprehensive online TEFL certification courses for aspiring learners. Bridge TEFL has a range of professional certificates for all levels, including the 40-hour Basic Certificate or the 120-hour Master Certification. Learners can also specialize in areas like grammar or business English, giving them an additional competitive advantage. Bridge TEFL also offers micro-credentials like the 20-Hour Games in the Online Classroom course for an extra boost. Students can complete the courses on any device and take advantage of downloadable resources for learning on-the-go.
2. The TEFL Academy
The TEFL Academy offers a range of internationally recognized TEFL qualifications and has been awarded the Go Overseas and GoAbroad Top TEFL Awards for five consecutive years. Learners can choose from a Level 3 and a Level 5 TEFL Diploma, with options to top up their skills with three additional courses: Teaching Young Learners, Teaching Business English, and Teaching Online and 1:1. The Level 3 Diploma is useful for volunteer teaching or teaching private students, whereas the Level 5 Diploma provides a more in-depth learning experience and can help learners find work in kindergartens or private language schools.
3. English for Asia
Established in Hong Kong in 1997, the English for Asia Group specializes in offering Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) and TEFL certificates. Learners can achieve their English teaching goals by participating in classes online or at the English For Asia TESOL center in Hong Kong. English for Asia is contracted by the Education Departments in Hong Kong and Macau and is the National Representative for Trinity College London’s TESOL and Drama assessments and support programs.
4. International TEFL Academy (ITA)
The International TEFL Academy (ITA) was founded in 2010 and offers TEFL certification classes online and in over 20 locations in America, Asia, Europe, and Latin America. The organization has over 40,000 graduates and provides lifelong job search guidance to help students find suitable TEFL jobs abroad. ITA offers online and in-person courses and provides advanced specialty classes so students can keep their TEFL skills up-to-date. Their comprehensive courses are fully interactive and include live teaching practice.
5. International TEFOL and TESOL Training (ITTT) Online
ITTT Online has offered high-quality TEFL courses for over 25 years, with thousands of certified graduates each year. They are associated with and accredited by educational organizations such as Lamar University, the Board of Academic Advisors, and the International Association of Teachers of English as a Foreign Language. ITTT Online offers a range of affordable distance learning courses that include support from dedicated tutors. Students can also take in-person classes at training facilities in countries like India, Thailand, Italy, and the USA, including practical teaching training with supervised support.
6. TEFL.org
TEFL.org is a UK-based internationally accredited TEFL course provider that has trained over 185,000 teachers. Their team is made up of individuals with years of practical teacher training and first-hand teaching experience, meaning students are fully supported by knowledgeable staff. Moreover, students will benefit from dedicated tutor support for the duration of their course. The organization has won multiple awards and is the UK’s most accredited TEFL course provider.
7. OISE University of Toronto TEFL
This TEFL certification is developed by the University of Toronto Faculty of Education (OISE) and provided by Teach Away, the leader in international teacher placements. Combining school specialists and instructors with professional online learning developers means students can obtain a top-quality TEFL qualification from the University of Toronto. Moreover, Teach Away works with schools and educational organizations worldwide and places thousands of teachers in global TEFL positions each year. Aspiring teachers can also customize their learning experience by specializing in areas like teaching English to young learners.
8. Premier TEFL
Premier TEFL was founded over 25 years ago by a TEFL teacher with experience teaching in Japan, China, Australia, and Greece. This means that students are learning from teachers with real TEFL experience and who understand the significance of embarking on a journey of teaching abroad. Premier TEFL courses are internationally recognized, Level 5 Ofqual (Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation in the UK) regulated, and undergo regular external checks to ensure students receive high-quality teacher training.
9. Uni-Prep Institute
The Uni-Prep Institute is an American training organization that offers in-person and online courses for professional educational development. Potential TEFL teachers can choose from a 120 or 250-hour TESOL and TEFL Certificate or Diploma, or a live online course that takes place on weekends. Students will receive a series of quizzes throughout the learning process to check their understanding of the course and will receive a combined TESOL and TEFL certification. Moreover, the Uni-Prep Institute offers students a guaranteed pass system.
10. Maximo Nivel
Maximo Nivel offers specialized TEFL courses for teachers looking for roles in America, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. With training centers in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru, the organization has trained over 5,250 TEFL graduates since 2004 and offers over 12 hours of practical teaching and observation time for their courses. Moreover, Maximo Nivel provides a job placement guarantee and lifetime job search assistance for its TEFL graduates.
Acer laptops for TEFL
Online classes and quizzes mean that TEFL learners need a laptop they can rely on. Moreover, TEFL graduates may consider an online teaching career as part of a digital nomad lifestyle, which requires a high-performance laptop built to last. The Acer TravelMate P6 includes a powerful 11th Gen Intel® Core™ i7 processor for outstanding performance capabilities. The laptop weighs just 1.0kg and is suitable for travel purposes. It is also tested to MIL-STD 810H standards for ultimate durability while on the road. The device offers up to 20 hours of battery off one charge, which is suitable for TEFL learners or teachers. It also powers up to 80% capacity in just one hour of charging, meaning users never have to worry about losing power.
Conclusion
TEFL certifications are a passport to the world of teaching abroad. Aspiring teachers should check the requirements of their chosen country to ensure they select a suitable course, and contact individual course providers if unsure. TEFL students and graduates should also choose a reliable laptop for learning and teaching. The Acer TravelMate P6 is a high-performance device designed for extended usage times. With a long battery life and enhanced durability, the Acer TravelMate is perfect for TEFL learning and beyond.
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Transform Your Space Into a Home Office
Creating a home office has become increasingly important for many people. Whether you work from home full-time, run a side business, or simply need a dedicated spot to manage household tasks, setting up an office space at home can improve productivity and provide a sense of organization and focus.
Below, we look at how to convert a portion of your living space into a functional and inspiring workspace. We'll take you through choosing the right location, making use of existing furniture, and adding elements to enhance productivity, comfort, and style.
Choosing the Right Space
The first step in creating a home office is selecting the best area in your home for the workspace. Consider the following factors when making your choice:
Natural Light:
Choose a location with plenty of natural light if possible. Natural light boosts mood and helps maintain focus throughout the day. Positioning your desk near a window can enhance the ambiance and make the workspace feel more open and inviting. If you're not blessed with much light, consider using daylight simulation lamps or bright LED desk lamps to mimic natural light, creating a similar effect and enhancing the overall atmosphere of your office area.
Noise Levels:
Think about how noisy it is in different areas of your home. If you can, opt for a space that's relatively quiet and free from frequent disruptions. This might mean selecting a room away from high-traffic areas or using soundproofing measures to create a peaceful environment. If you live in a studio apartment or only have a couple of options, try using noise-canceling headphones or white noise machines to block out external sounds, or set up curtains and rugs to absorb sound and minimize echoes.
Space Availability:
Make sure the chosen space can accommodate the necessary furniture and equipment. If you're working with a smaller space, look at multifunctional furniture, such as desks with built-in storage, or fold-out desks that double as shelves. Alternatively, wall-mounted options like floating desks or shelving units can help you maximize space while keeping your workspace organized.
Furniture Essentials
Once you've selected the perfect spot, it's time to think about the three essential furniture pieces needed for your home office:
Desk:
The desk is the centerpiece of any home office. Choose a desk that fits comfortably in the space while providing enough surface area for your work tasks. If space is limited, try a compact, foldable, or corner desk to make the most of the available room. Alternatively, go for an adjustable standing desk to promote healthy posture and wellbeing throughout the workday.
Chair:
An ergonomic chair is crucial for comfort and productivity. Look for a chair with adjustable height, lumbar support, and a comfortable cushion to prevent fatigue during long work sessions. Some people also explore alternative forms of sitting, such as kneeling chairs, which promote a forward tilt of the pelvis and encourage better posture, or Swiss balls, which engage core muscles and improve balance while sitting. These options can provide variety and potential health benefits, although it's important to choose a seating option that offers adequate support.
Storage Solutions:
For many people, clutter is the enemy of productivity. Adequate storage is essential for keeping the workspace organized, so add enough shelves, drawers, or filing cabinets to store documents, supplies, and equipment. For smaller spaces, wall-mounted shelves, rolling carts or under-desk storage can be great options.
Technology Setup
Setting up the right technology in your home office is vital for efficiency and productivity. Here’s how to create a seamless environment.
Computers and Monitors:
Invest in a reliable computer setup that meets your work needs. If your tasks require it, add dual monitors or a large, high-resolution monitor for multitasking or detailed work. For example, the AOPEN SA2 Monitor offers a 27-inch display that's perfect for enhancing productivity, while the CB2 Business Monitor provides a curved 37.5-inch display ideal for immersive work experiences.
Printers and Scanners:
If physical document handling is needed for your work, add a reliable printer and scanner, and place it within easy reach. All-in-one devices are great space-savers and provide multiple functions in one unit. Wireless models can also help create a cleaner workspace.
Wiring and Cable Management:
Make sure you have enough outlets and surge protectors to power all your devices, and keep cords and cables streamlined and labeled to avoid a tangled mess. Use cable organizers or clips to secure cords and route them behind or under furniture to keep the workspace tidy.
Personalizing Your Space
Your home office should reflect your personality and style. Here are some ways to create a space that motivates you:
Lighting:
Task lighting on your desk is essential for focused work and reducing eye strain during late work sessions. If you complement this with warm ambient lighting, you’ll create a more inviting atmosphere.
Decor:
Express yourself with artwork, photographs, or decorative objects that spark joy and creativity. Adding plants not only helps to purify the air but also adds a touch of life and serenity to your workspace.
Comfort Touches:
Add a cozy throw blanket, a supportive chair pad, or an aromatherapy diffuser to create a relaxing and comfortable environment.
Remember, your home office is an extension of yourself, so take some time to furnish and decorate it in a way that reflects your needs and personality. By following these tips and injecting your unique style, you can transform any space into an inspiring haven that fuels your productivity and sense of wellbeing.
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About Maxine Sheppard: Maxine is a writer and editor who specializes in topics ranging from travel, tech and music to wildlife and design. When not writing, you might find her driving through a national park with the radio on loud.
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A Preview of Senua's Saga
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II, the sequel to Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, continues the gripping tale of its protagonist, Senua, in a narrative-rich and visually stunning setting. The original 2017 game was not only acclaimed for its sensitive and immersive portrayal of mental illness but also celebrated for its compelling story and engaging combat system. Winning multiple awards for both its narrative depth and gameplay mechanics, Hellblade set a high bar. With the sequel, Ninja Theory aims to push these boundaries further, offering a more refined combat experience and an even richer story that delves deeper into mythological realms and Senua’s psyche.
Who made the Hellblade series?
Ninja Theory, Ltd., a British video game development studio founded in 2000, has carved a niche for itself with a focus on visually stunning, narrative-driven games. Initially known as Just Add Monsters, the studio debuted with Kung Fu Chaos and gained prominence with Heavenly Sword in 2007, a game celebrated for its cinematic quality and fun combat system. Ninja Theory continued to explore deep character-driven narratives with Enslaved: Odyssey to the West and the boldly reimagined DmC: Devil May Cry. Their innovative approach peaked with Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice, an "independent AAA" game acclaimed for its portrayal of mental illness and immersive storytelling. Acquired by Microsoft in 2018 and now part of Xbox Game Studios, Ninja Theory can now leverage greater resources to develop ambitious projects like Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II and Project: Mara.
Hellblade series
The Hellblade series began with Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, which introduces players to Senua, a Pict warrior struggling with severe psychological distress amidst a backdrop of Norse mythology. The story is set during the Viking Age and follows Senua’s perilous journey to the mythic Norse underworld, Helheim, to rescue the soul of her dead lover from the goddess Hela. Along this journey, the game uniquely portrays Senua’s psychosis, making her hallucinations and voices central to both the narrative and gameplay mechanics. This groundbreaking approach not only serves the story's immersive depth but also integrates directly with the puzzle and combat elements of the game, blurring the lines between Senua's perceptions and the player's reality.
Senua's Saga: Hellblade II, expands on this foundation. Set in the haunting landscapes of 9th century Iceland, the game escalates Senua's internal and external battles. The narrative promises to delve deeper into her complex psyche, while also exploring the rich tapestry of Norse and Celtic mythology. As Senua confronts both new adversaries and her ongoing mental battles, players can expect a story of resilience, fear, and discovery, rendered with the series' signature psychological depth and cinematic quality
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II
Story and themes
Senua's Saga: Hellblade II deepens the haunting and poignant journey of Senua as she navigates both physical and psychological landscapes infused with Norse mythology. Building on the events of Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice, the sequel propels Senua to Iceland, setting the stage for a narrative rich in confrontation and revelation.
In the early levels, as Senua moves through settlements left in ruins by the Northmen, the environment intensifies the grim atmosphere with its bubbling volcanic pools and the haunting remnants of a massacre. This stark landscape sets the tone for a deeper exploration into both the external world and Senua's internal battles. The narrative deepens when Senua encounters a mysterious man tied to a dark ritual, potentially destined to be the next sacrifice. His unclear connection to Senua's past propels the story into a realm of personal stakes intertwined with broader mythological elements. The fate of this man and his link to Senua suggest that her journey will be as much about unraveling her own history as it is about confronting external foes.
In this continuation, Senua not only confronts the aftermath of her traumatic past but also seeks retribution against the Northmen responsible for the death of her beloved Dillion. Moreover, a central plot point involves her confrontation with her father, Zynbel, who emerges as the antagonist and source of Senua’s childhood trauma. His actions, which led to the destruction of Senua’s village and the death of her mother, adds layers of familial betrayal to Senua's quest for vengeance and truth.
Graphics and design
For Senua's Saga: Hellblade II, Ninja Theory leveraged the power of Unreal Engine 5, utilizing its advanced features such as Lumen for dynamic global illumination and Nanite for detailed geometrics to deliver breathtaking visuals directly within the game engine. The studio extensively employed photogrammetry, capturing numerous photographs of real-world locations in Iceland to create highly realistic and textured 3D models of the game's environments. The character animations and facial expressions were brought to life through sophisticated performance capture techniques.
Melina Juergens reprised her role as Senua, with her performances captured in intricate detail on Ninja Theory's new, larger motion capture stage. This facility allowed for more complex interactions and action sequences, enhancing the game's cinematic quality. Additionally, the team used real-time effects and advanced shading to create dynamic environmental reactions, adding depth and realism to the world of Hellblade II. By incorporating cinematic techniques and drawing inspiration from films, the game blurs the line between cinema and video games, setting a new standard in visual fidelity and immersive storytelling.
Gameplay
In Senua's Saga: Hellblade II, the combat system and puzzle mechanics, from the 1st game, have been significantly enhanced to offer a more immersive and tactical experience, seamlessly integrating with the narrative and thematic elements of the game.
1. Combat
https://youtu.be/NUBeKDSShj0?si=1CCaDpOIV627ILkB&t=125
Each strike from Senua's sword feels weighty and impactful, with a visceral sense that emphasizes the damage inflicted on opponents. A wider variety of enemy types introduces depth and variety, requiring different strategies to defeat. Defense mechanics such as dodging and parrying are crucial, with more stringent timing needed for these actions, demanding precise player input.
Combat scenarios often unfold as intense one-on-one duels, focusing on delivering a personal and emotionally charged experience. Inspired by cinematic battles, the combat is both dramatic and challenging, with each fight mirroring Senua’s psychological battles and contributing to the unfolding story. Advanced performance capture technologies enrich combat animations, making them fluid and realistic, while environmental interactions and lighting effects during battles enhance immersion.
The combat in Senua’s Saga actively encourages players to explore diverse combat strategies and discourages reliance on the repetitive side-step dodge and quick attack combo that was common in Hellblade 1.
2. Puzzles
Building on the innovative puzzle mechanics from the first game, the sequel introduces puzzles that demand exploration and lateral thinking. These challenges are woven into the story, reflecting Senua’s mental state and her perception of the world. Puzzles involve environmental manipulation and perception-based tasks, such as aligning elements to unlock paths or solving mysteries that are metaphorical representations of Senua's internal conflicts. New puzzles emerge organically from the game's setting, utilizing natural features to create visual illusions that players must interpret and resolve to advance, deepening immersion in Senua’s psychological journey.
Overall, the combat and gameplay mechanics in Senua's Saga: Hellblade II are crafted not only to challenge the player but also to engage them deeply in Senua's harrowing journey, making each moment in the game meaningful and impactful. The integration of puzzles with the narrative and visual design cements the game as a thought-provoking and engaging experience where gameplay mechanics serve a larger storytelling purpose.
Specs and release date
Senua's Saga: Hellblade II is set to release on May 21, 2024, and will be available on Xbox Series X|S and PC. The game will only be available in a digital format at launch, with no physical copies being offered. This decision might change in the future if there's enough demand for a physical release.
The PC specifications for the game are detailed in the image above. If your current setup isn't powerful enough to run the game, consider the Predator Helios Neo 16 or Nitro 16. Both laptops meet or exceed the recommended settings for the game. Additionally, each purchase of an Acer laptop includes a free trial of Xbox Game Pass.
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What’s on the Horizon for PC Gaming?
Advancements in technology, the rise of competitive gaming, and the expansion of gaming communities have fueled PC gaming’s remarkable evolution in recent years. As we look toward the future, it’s clear that the industry is poised for even greater change. The lines between traditional gaming and new frontiers like cloud gaming and AI-driven experiences are blurring, creating a dynamic and exciting landscape for gamers and developers alike. What else might the future hold for one of the most vibrant and rapidly growing sectors in entertainment? Let’s explore what’s driving the PC gaming industry forward.
Innovations in PC Gaming Hardware
New hardware like advanced processors (possibly based on the ARM architecture) and faster storage (PCIe 5.0 SSDs) are expected to bring significant performance improvements. OLED gaming monitors, which offer hyper-realistic visuals with deeper shadows, brighter highlights, and a wider color spectrum, are also emerging as a game-changer for PC players seeking an unparalleled level of immersion and visual fidelity. As for GPUs, leaks and tip-offs point to the possibility of AMD’s Radeon RX 8000 series and Nvidia’s Blackwell offerings later in the year, but we’ll have to wait and see. For now, there’s a good range of top-notch gaming laptops, such as the Predator Triton 16 Gaming Laptop, to tide you over until you can upgrade to the next wave of hardware components.
Cloud Gaming and Streaming
Cloud integration has been disrupting PC gaming by offering an alternative way to play high-end titles without a top-of-the-line gaming PC. Services like GeForce Now and Xbox Cloud Gaming allow you to play on less powerful devices like laptops, tablets, or even smartphones, as long as you have a fast internet connection. Instead of constantly upgrading your PC hardware, you stream games from powerful remote servers. All this has made high-end gaming more accessible. In the future, we might see PC games leverage the cloud for features like real-time AI or physics simulations, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on a traditional PC.
Cross-Platform Play
Cross-play, the ability for gamers on different platforms to play together, has been breaking the barriers between PC and console gaming. It’s a major PC gaming trend that will keep growing. Aside from creating larger, more diverse player communities and fostering a more inclusive gaming environment, cross-play functionality can also increase a game’s lifespan. A broader player base means shorter matchmaking times and a more active community, leading to sustained interest in the game. The shift toward platform-agnostic gaming is a win-win scenario empowering both gamers and developers.
AI, AI, and More AI in Gaming
There’s a multitude of possibilities for AI applications in the world of PC gaming, and while many of them are still in the theoretical stages, it’s still exciting to think about how AI will reshape our gaming sessions. Predictions include AI-powered GPUs that can not only render stunning visuals but also use AI to enhance them in real-time. This can pave the way for features like dynamic environments, where AI generates aspects of the game world on the fly, and improved image fidelity thanks to AI taking lower resolution textures and intelligently recreating them to appear sharper and more detailed. AI-powered game development tools are also emerging, allowing developers to streamline tasks like animation, level design, and even character creation. This could potentially lead to more innovative and immersive PC games being created faster.
The future of PC gaming isn’t just about cutting-edge tech, it’s also about the people. DFC Intelligence estimated that there will be 1.86 billion PC gamers worldwide in 2024. Trends like cross-play enrich the global gaming community, where connections and friendly rivalries are forged across borders. These bonds can only grow stronger as PC gaming brings new shared experiences for players everywhere.
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About Micah Sulit: Micah is a writer and editor with a focus on lifestyle topics like tech, wellness, and travel. She loves writing while sipping an iced mocha in a cafe, preferably one in a foreign city. She's based in Manila, Philippines.
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10 Best Password Managers in 2024
What is a password manager?
A password manager is a software tool that securely stores and generates strong, unique passwords for your online accounts. You only need to remember one master password to access all your login information. Password managers often include autofill features and security checks, making them essential tools for protecting your online presence.
How do password managers work?
Password managers secure and simplify the management of your login credentials through encryption. You create a master password that encrypts your password database, accessible only through this master key. Data such as usernames and passwords are stored securely and can be autofilled on websites for convenience. These tools also generate strong, random passwords and can sync across multiple devices, ensuring your credentials are safe and readily available wherever you go, all while maintaining robust encryption to protect against unauthorized access.
Selecting the right password manager can be a game changer for protecting your online identity. A good password manager not only simplifies your digital life but also fortifies your online safety. Here are the key criteria for a good password manager:
* Strong Security and Encryption: This includes multi-factor authentication (MFA), biometrics, and encryption methods (like AES-256, ChaCha20, or Twofish). These features are crucial for keeping your passwords and other sensitive information secure from unauthorized access.
* Credit Card Safety and Auto-Fill: A good password manager should offer a secure way to store and auto-fill credit card details, making online shopping more convenient while ensuring that your financial information remains protected.
* Password Health Check and Generation: Features that assess the strength of your existing passwords and generate strong, unique passwords are important for maintaining your overall security posture. This helps ensure that your passwords are not easily hackable.
* Data Breach Alerts: Receiving notifications if your information is involved in a data breach allows you to take immediate action, such as changing compromised passwords, to protect your accounts.
As we explore the best password managers of 2024, these criteria will guide our evaluation, ensuring that you choose a tool that meets the highest standards of security, convenience, and proactive protection.
Note: For those wondering why LastPass was not included on the list, we made the decision to omit LastPass due to a series of security breaches it experienced in 2023. We believe this decision aligns with our commitment to recommending only the most secure options for our readers.
10 Best Password Managers in 2024
1. 1password
1Password stands out as a leading password manager known for its strong security features, ease of use, and effective cross-platform functionality. It employs advanced encryption technology, including a unique 34-character security code for each user, and follows a zero-knowledge architecture to ensure user data remains private. The absence of a free version highlights its premium offering, which includes a travel mode for additional security during international travel, and biometric authentication for easy access. The service is competitively priced and offers a 14-day trial to let potential users assess its features risk-free.
Key Criteria:
* Strong Security and Encryption: 1Password uses AES-256 encryption to protect your data, supplemented by a unique 34-character security code for each account. It also supports multi-factor authentication and offers a feature called Secret Key to further enhance security.
* Credit Card Safety and Auto-Fill: The manager includes a feature for safely auto-filling credit card information. It allows you to create virtual credit cards for different merchants, enhancing security and convenience during online transactions.
* Password Health Check and Generation: 1Password provides an auto-generation tool for creating strong, unique passwords and includes a 'Watchtower' dashboard that monitors and reports on password strength, compromised logins, and necessary security updates.
* Data Breach Alerts: The service features a monitoring system called Watchtower, which alerts users to any security vulnerabilities within their stored items and provides notifications of breaches involving their credentials.
2. Bitwarden
Bitwarden is an open-source password manager that excels in both affordability and security. Known for its strong AES-256 encryption, zero-knowledge architecture, and versatile authentication options including biometrics and multi-factor authentication, Bitwarden ensures protection of user data. Additionally, it offers an appealing free tier alongside its competitively priced premium options. Despite its many strengths, some concerns persist regarding its auto-fill feature, especially within embedded iframes, potentially allowing password theft. This issue has raised questions about Bitwarden's reliability in certain scenarios.
Key Criteria:
* Strong Security and Encryption: Bitwarden utilizes AES-256 encryption, which is among the most robust encryption standards available, ensuring that user data remains secure from unauthorized access. The platform operates on a zero-knowledge architecture, meaning that not even Bitwarden's servers store readable versions of user passwords.
* Credit Card Safety and Auto-Fill: While Bitwarden supports auto-filling for convenience, it has encountered security issues with this feature, particularly in scenarios involving malicious iframes. This has led to recommendations for users to exercise caution with auto-fill settings. However, for credit card safety, data stored in Bitwarden is encrypted, mirroring the security provided for passwords.
* Password Health Check and Generation: Bitwarden offers a password generator tool that helps users create strong and unique passwords for each account. Additionally, the service includes a password health report feature that checks for reused or weak passwords, encouraging users to update them regularly for enhanced security.
* Data Breach Alerts: Premium users of Bitwarden benefit from security breach reports that alert them if their stored data appears in known breaches. This proactive feature helps users take immediate action to change compromised passwords and secure their accounts.
3. Proton Pass
Proton, renowned for its secure and privacy-focused digital services, has introduced Proton Pass, a password manager developed in collaboration with SimpleLogin. This addition extends Proton’s commitment to enhancing both security and user experience, characterized by intuitive design and seamless integration with its existing suite of products like Mail, Calendar, and VPN. Proton Pass features comprehensive encryption practices, supports various browsers, though with limitations for Safari and Edge, and maintains the company's ethos by being open-source. As it's currently in beta, with full launch expected later, the pricing is at an extremely competitive price of $1.99 a month or free with your Proton Unlimited subscription.
Key Criteria:
* Strong Security and Encryption: Proton Pass employs 256-bit AES-GCM encryption across all data fields, including usernames, URLs, and notes, ensuring end-to-end security. It supports TOTP generation and two-factor authentication, enhancing protection against unauthorized access.
* Credit Card Safety and Auto-Fill: Proton Pass securely stores passwords, credit cards, and other data (including all metadata) using end-to-end encryption and offers auto-fill capabilities for both web and mobile versions of their app, enhancing convenience and security during online transactions.
* Password Health Check and Generation: In addition to its auto-fill capabilities, Proton Pass includes an auto-generate feature for creating strong, unique passwords, bolstering user security.
* Data Breach Alerts: Proton Pass includes a feature called Pass Monitor, which alerts users to account weaknesses and data breaches. This enables users to promptly respond to potential threats and better defend their online accounts against attacks.
4. KeePass
KeePass is a renowned open-source password manager that emphasizes security by storing passwords locally rather than on the cloud. It offers encryption through SHA-256 or optional ChaCha20, ensuring that users maintain full control over their data security. This feature appeals particularly to tech-savvy users who prefer a hands-on approach to data management. KeePass is highly customizable with a wide array of plugins, although this can complicate its use, making it less user-friendly compared to more modern password managers. It’s completely free, which makes it an attractive option for those willing to navigate its steep learning curve and more manual setup.
Key Criteria:
* Strong Security and Encryption: KeePass provides excellent security features, including SHA-256 encryption, with the option to switch to ChaCha20 for even stronger security. It supports multiple forms of user keys, including master passwords and key files, enhancing security through two-factor authentication if both are used together.
* Credit Card Safety and Auto-Fill: KeePass does not inherently support autofill for credit cards and other forms without additional plugins. This might require more technical skill to implement effectively, making it less convenient than other password managers with built-in autofill capabilities.
* Password Health Check and Generation: KeePass includes a highly customizable password generator that allows users to specify the length and complexity of passwords. However, it lacks a built-in password health check feature, which is often found in other password managers to help users identify and update weak or reused passwords.
* Data Breach Alerts: KeePass does not offer native support for data breach monitoring. Users looking for this feature would need to rely on third-party plugins or other tools to monitor their email addresses and other credentials against known breaches, which may not integrate seamlessly with KeePass.
5. Sticky password
Sticky Password is recognized for its high security and extensive feature set, making it a solid choice for both new and advanced users in password management. It utilizes AES-256 encryption and supports multiple forms of two-factor authentication, including biometric options. Sticky Password's offerings include a password generator, secure password sharing, a digital wallet, emergency access, and Dark Web Monitoring. It also boasts compatibility across a wide range of platforms and browsers, though it faces some limitations with its web app and customer support.
Key Criteria:
* Strong Security and Encryption: Sticky Password employs AES-256 encryption, one of the most robust encryption standards available. It ensures that all user data is encrypted both locally and on their servers, providing strong security against unauthorized access. The addition of PBKDF2 enhances this security, making it suitable even for users with high-security needs.
* Credit Card Safety and Auto-Fill: The autofill feature in Sticky Password extends to both login information and financial details such as credit cards, ensuring quick and secure online transactions. This feature minimizes the risk of phishing by automatically filling in credentials on recognized sites, preventing manual entry on potentially unsafe platforms.
* Password Health Check and Generation: Sticky Password includes a password generator that allows users to create highly secure passwords up to 99 characters in length, using a mix of letters, digits, and symbols. The security dashboard offers a useful overview of password health, alerting users to weak or reused passwords and providing the option to upgrade them for enhanced security.
* Data Breach Alerts: The Dark Web Monitoring feature checks the security of user credentials against known data breaches, alerting users if their information is compromised. This proactive security measure helps users to react quickly to potential threats by changing compromised passwords, thereby securing their accounts against unauthorized access.
6. Zoho Vault
Zoho Vault stands out as a budget-friendly and secure password manager, particularly suited for small to medium enterprises (SMEs) but also accommodating individual users. It offers a free version and competitively priced premium plans starting from $0.90/month. Zoho Vault employs AES-256 encryption and supports a variety of two-factor authentication methods. The service is designed with a strong focus on business use, featuring advanced password sharing capabilities and integration with a wide range of third-party services.
Key Criteria:
* Strong Security and Encryption: Zoho Vault employs AES-256 bit encryption, ensuring a high level of security for stored data. This standard is complemented by a zero-knowledge architecture, meaning only the user can decrypt and access their vault. Zoho also offers additional security through its integration with many third-party services, providing seamless and secure synchronization across various platforms.
* Credit Card Safety and Auto-Fill: Zoho Vault's auto-fill feature streamlines the process of entering personal and payment information, reducing the risk of keystroke logging and phishing attacks. This feature supports safe and efficient online transactions, enhancing user convenience without compromising security.
* Password Health Check and Generation: The password manager includes a password health check tool that alerts users to weak, old, or reused passwords, encouraging stronger, more secure practices. Its password generator allows users to create complex passwords, which enhances security by reducing the likelihood of password-related breaches.
* Data Breach Alerts: Zoho Vault provides monitoring services that alert users to any potential exposure of their credentials, helping to prevent unauthorized access.
7. Roboform
RoboForm is an established password manager with a legacy stretching back to the late 1990s. Known for its tight security features, including AES-256 encryption and two-factor authentication, RoboForm provides a secure environment for storing sensitive information. It offers a user-friendly experience with features like password generation, web form filling, and secure login sharing. While it provides a comprehensive free version, it also offers paid plans that include additional features like cloud backup and emergency access, making it a versatile choice for both individual and business use. However, some aspects, such as the lack of a travel mode or integrated VPN, may limit its appeal to some users.
Key Criteria:
* Strong Security and Encryption: RoboForm utilizes AES-256 encryption, ensuring that all user data is protected with one of the strongest cryptographic ciphers available. It enhances security further with two-factor authentication options, including email, SMS, and app-based authentication methods.
* Credit Card Safety and Auto-Fill: The auto-fill feature extends beyond passwords to include form filling for personal and credit card information, making online transactions both swift and secure.
* Password Health Check and Generation: RoboForm's Security Centre provides a password health check that evaluates the strength of stored passwords and identifies reused or duplicated passwords. It also features a powerful password generator that can create complex passwords up to 512 characters long.
* Data Breach Alerts: RoboForm includes features to monitor for data breaches. The alert system checks against a list maintained by Have I Been Pwned (HIBP) and warns users if their information appears in known data breaches, enabling them to take proactive steps to secure their accounts.
8. NordPass
NordPass stands out as one of the top-rated password managers in 2024, favored for its ease of use, solid security features, and affordability. With cutting-edge XChaCha20 encryption and a zero-knowledge architecture, NordPass ensures that your data remains secure and accessible only to you. It supports multi-factor authentication, offers a variety of plans tailored to different user needs, and has passed rigorous independent security audits. Despite some issues with its autofill feature, NordPass offers a comprehensive suite of tools, including password health monitoring and data breach alerts, making it an attractive choice for personal and professional use.
Key Criteria:
* Strong Security and Encryption: NordPass uses the advanced XChaCha20 encryption algorithm to secure user data, providing an added layer of security compared to the more common AES-256 encryption. This, combined with its zero-knowledge architecture, ensures that users' data is encrypted end-to-end and inaccessible even to NordPass staff.
* Credit Card Safety and Auto-Fill: While the autofill functionality has received some criticism for inconsistency, NordPass still offers a autofill system that extends to credit card information and personal data, helping streamline online transactions securely.
* Password Health Check and Generation: NordPass includes a comprehensive password health check tool that assesses password strength, identifies reused and old passwords, and suggests changes to enhance security. Its password generator allows for the creation of complex passwords, which enhances overall security practices.
* Data Breach Alerts: The service includes a data breach scanner that alerts users if their personal information is found in compromised databases. This feature is essential for proactive security management, allowing users to respond swiftly to potential threats.
9. Keeper
Keeper Password Manager is highly regarded for its security and comprehensive feature set, making it a good option for managing credentials across various platforms. Known for its paid-only service, Keeper justifies its entry barrier with impressive features like multi-factor authentication, a data breach checker, and secure messaging. It utilizes AES-256 encryption alongside a zero-knowledge architecture, ensuring data remains private and secure. Despite its strong offerings, some features come at an additional cost, and there is no free subscription available, which might deter some users.
Key Criteria:
* Strong Security and Encryption: Keeper stands out with its AES-256 encryption, which is supplemented by PBKDF2 to enhance security. Each entry in Keeper’s vault is assigned a unique encryption key, raising the security bar high enough to make unauthorized access nearly impossible. This layered encryption approach protects not just passwords but also secure notes and other sensitive information stored within the app.
* Credit Card Safety and Auto-Fill: Keeper’s autofill feature, known as KeeperFill, efficiently handles filling in passwords and credit card information, minimizing the risk of data theft during online transactions. This feature supports various browsers and platforms, ensuring a seamless user experience across devices.
* Password Health Check and Generation: The password manager includes a password evaluation tool that assesses the strength and security of stored passwords. This feature helps identify weak or reused passwords, prompting users to update them to maintain security integrity. Additionally, Keeper’s password generator can create passwords up to 100 characters long, allowing for extremely strong credentials that enhance account security.
* Data Breach Alerts: Keeper includes a feature called BreachWatch, which monitors the dark web for leaked information and alerts users if their data is compromised. This proactive monitoring ensures that users can react swiftly to secure their accounts, thereby minimizing potential damage from data breaches.
10. Dashlane
Dashlane is recognized as one of the premier password managers due to its security measures and comprehensive feature set. As a web-based solution, Dashlane offers mobile apps and browser extensions but has phased out desktop applications. It uses AES-256 encryption and embraces a zero-knowledge architecture, ensuring that only the user can decrypt and access their data. Dashlane is on the pricier side, with a starting price of $4.99/month, compared to alternatives like NordPass which offers a lower monthly rate.
Key Criteria:
* Strong Security and Encryption: Dashlane employs AES-256 encryption, the industry standard for security, making it nearly impossible for unauthorized parties to access user data. It also features a zero-knowledge architecture, ensuring that only users have the ability to decrypt their vaults. This encryption and architecture protect users’ data both at rest and in transit.
* Credit Card Safety and Auto-Fill: Dashlane enhances online shopping safety with its credit card auto-fill feature. It securely stores credit card information and automatically fills in payment details during checkout, reducing the risk of manual entry errors and data theft. However, Dashlane limits free plan users to storing only 50 passwords and no longer offers a desktop app, which may affect ease of use across multiple devices.
* Password Health Check and Generation: The platform includes a password health check feature that assesses the strength and security of stored passwords, alerting users to potential vulnerabilities such as weak or reused passwords. Dashlane also features a powerful password generator that creates up to 40-character passwords, ensuring strong and unique passwords for various accounts.
* Data Breach Alerts: Dashlane provides real-time dark web monitoring, scanning the dark web for leaked personal information and notifying users of any potential data breaches. This feature actively monitors multiple email addresses and alerts users immediately if their information is compromised, prompting them to take necessary actions like changing passwords.
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How Copilot in Windows Will Redefine Education in the Classroom
You may have heard of Microsoft Copilot, an AI assistant in Windows that can help users with a variety of tasks from writing to answering questions, coding, generating images, and much more. Formerly known as Bing Chat, Microsoft Copilot is actually a family of, well, Copilots. These Copilots have a variety of applications including the enterprise oriented Copilot for Microsoft 365, and Microsoft Copilot for Sales.
Today, we’re going to focus on how a next-generation AI productivity tool, namely Copilot in Windows, promises to redefine education in the classroom. Read on to discover seven ways that Copilot for education can help students and teachers to improve their learning journeys by being their education copilot.
1. Efficient Lesson Planning
Unfortunately, many teachers these days are overworked. According to a survey by the RAND Corporation, teachers work an estimated 53 hours a week, that’s seven hours more than the average working adult! Much of these working hours, including time spent planning lessons and marking papers is unpaid, creating a burden of stress that can lead to burnout. Thankfully, Copilot for Word can reduce lesson planning time: Copilot responds to prompts and creates lesson plans, quizzes, rubrics, and other class resources that can be tailored by the teacher to meet students’ needs. What’s more, Copilot can suggest activities, resources, and assessments aligned with educational objectives, streamlining the lesson planning process. By harnessing the power of Copilot, educators can save time and energy, allowing them to focus their energy on engaging with students, and adapting their teaching methods.
Suggested prompt: “Create a 60 minute lesson plan on the English Civil War for an 11th grade history class.”
2. Personalized Learning
Imagine a never-tiring assistant who is always happy to rewrite, tweak and customize your writing and content. Well Microsoft Copilot for Word and PowerPoint is a never-tiring assistant that’s ready to work 24/7. Copilot saves teachers a great deal of time in crafting content and feedback that resonates with individual student needs and learning styles. Even if they work all hours under the sun, and burn a bit of that midnight oil too, many teachers today simply don’t have enough time to create educational content that is tailored to meet the diverse needs of all of their students. By leveraging generative AI, Copilot can adapt to different student profiles and provide tailored support to students of all levels. By providing personalized learning experiences, Copilot enhances student engagement, understanding, and retention of material.
Suggested prompt: “Create spelling worksheets for 9th grade students with three levels of difficulty.”
3. High-Quality Educational Materials
In the age of the internet, artificial intelligence, fake news, and social media, surely it is the duty of every educator to ensure that the educational materials that they give their students are of the highest-quality possible? Once again, time is of the essence, and many teachers simply lack the time to consistently produce high quality educational materials. Copilot to the rescue! Fortunately, Copilot is able to create a wide range of consistent and high-quality educational materials including class notes, summaries, and even study guides. The use of Copilot for teachers in producing high-quality educational materials benefits both teachers and students by ensuring reliable resources are readily available. What’s more, educators can easily maintain access to well-structured content while reducing their workload.
Suggested prompt: “Create a summary of Hamlet in 300 words.”
4. Innovative Teaching Approaches
Innovation is at the forefront of education today. From interactive learning experiences, to hybrid, remote, and even flipped learning, the days of rote learning and chalkboards are numbered! Educators must take the plunge and innovate, but it's not always easy, or practical to get started. Thankfully, Copilot can be a useful tool that encourages educators to explore new teaching methods. Copilot can alleviate the drudgery of everyday tasks, such as administrative tasks, plagiarism detection, and data analysis. By handing these routine tasks over to Copilot, educators have more time to experiment with innovative approaches in the classroom. Easier said than done, perhaps? Well a real life example of how Copilot can be leveraged effectively is in Wichita Public Schools. They have leveraged Copilot to personalize learning, resulting in time savings that can be reinvested in student support.
Suggested prompt: “Rewrite page 5 of this PDF, using academic language.”
5. Accessibility and Inclusion
Increasing the accessibility and inclusivity of educational content is a groundbreaking feature of Copilot for students. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to education, and Copilot can be a lifeline for students with diverse requirements. Traditionally, learners with visual impairments would make the most of class time by sitting at the front of the classroom to see what was happening on the board, or screen. With Copilot, accessibility features are effortlessly integrated into the learning experience. Accessibility is delivered by generating alt text for images, ensuring content is legible for students with visual impairments. Many classrooms today are multilingual spaces, where learners have varying levels of English, and different mother tongues. Copilot can accurately and efficiently translate to and from many languages, facilitating the creation of materials in multiple languages, making education more inclusive for diverse student populations.
Suggested prompt: “Translate this task into Spanish”
6. Professional Development for Teachers
As teachers, we want what’s best for our students as we guide them on their learning journeys. At the same time, it’s important for teachers in all fields to stay up to date with teaching and learning developments. Copilot supports a community of continuous learning and professional growth for educators by assisting them in researching educational best practices, and more. In practice, through data analysis and machine learning algorithms, Copilot locates areas where teachers can improve their instructional practice, providing personalized recommendations. With tailored, relevant resources, educators are able to continuously develop their teaching practice, as well as collaborate with others, by sharing everything from lesson plans to classroom insights.
Suggested prompt: “Add differentiated instruction to this lesson plan.”
7. Safe and Responsible AI
With cyber attacks and ransomware on the rise, safety and security of student and organizational information are paramount. The information that we share with AI needs to be safely and responsibly used and stored, whether it's handing over lesson planning duties to Copilot, organizing student data, or simply asking general questions. Microsoft is committed to responsible AI practices, and privacy-preserving machine learning. What this means for users is that teacher, student, as well as organizational data are protected. What’s more, chat prompts and responses are not saved or used for training large language models. Ensuring that your data is safe adds peace of mind to users and organizations, and Copilot’s commitment to privacy and security sure makes it a reliable tool for educational settings.
The takeaway
We hope that you’ve enjoyed today’s educational adventure, and along the way have learned how Copilot in Windows will redefine education in the classroom. While it’s still early days for AI integrated education, teachers and students worldwide are already benefiting greatly from Copilot. From aiding educators in efficiently planning personalized, high-quality lessons, to discovering innovative teaching techniques, the potential application of Copilot are many. Accessibility and inclusion are also a key benefit that Copilot brings to the classroom, as well as the ability to help teachers in continuous professional development. Finally, remember that your data is in safe hands with Copilot, thanks to Microsoft’s commitment to ethical AI. Whether you’re a student or an educator, check out Copilot in Windows, and see how it redefines your education.
Empower Your Learning: Educators and students alike can stay ahead of the curve with the latest educational technology updates through our Acer Corner Email Digest. From innovative teaching tools to tech tips that enhance learning, our digest is your gateway to advancing education. Sign up now to receive monthly insights directly in your inbox.
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Navigating Steam's Refund Process: How to Return Steam Games
Steam, developed by Valve Corporation, is a popular digital distribution platform for games, software, and other content. With millions of users worldwide, Steam offers a vast library of games, from indie titles to AAA blockbusters. However, sometimes you might purchase a game and realize it’s not what you expected. Fortunately, Steam provides a straightforward refund process to ensure customer satisfaction.
How to Refund a Game on Steam: Steps to Take
To initiate a Steam refund, follow these instructions:
* Log in to your Steam account and navigate to the “Help” section.
* Click on “Purchases” and find the game or purchase you want to refund.
* Select the issue you are having with the product.
* From the available options, select “I would like a refund.”
* Fill out the request form, choosing either Steam Wallet or the original payment method.
* Check your email for a message confirming the successful submission of your refund request.
The Ins and Outs of the Steam Refund Policy
The Steam store has a refund policy that’s designed to protect consumers while maintaining fairness for developers. According to the policy, you can request a refund for any game purchased on Steam, regardless of the reason, if the request is made within the first two weeks of purchase and the total playtime does not exceed two hours.
This policy also covers Early Access and Advanced Access games. These are Steam games developers release in an unfinished state, allowing players to experience the game during its development phase. It used to be that you could play the game for many hours ahead of launch and still be able to ask for a refund after. Steam, however, closed that loophole. Now, if you’ve played for more than two hours of a game in any state before the day of its official release, you aren’t eligible for a refund.
While the refund process is generally straightforward, there may be instances where you encounter issues. One common problem is when a game has been played for longer than the two-hour limit, but there are extenuating circumstances that warrant a refund. In such cases, it's recommended to reach out to Steam support and provide a detailed explanation of your situation. Be prepared to provide evidence, such as screenshots or gameplay recordings, to support your case.
Another potential issue arises when a game is part of a bundle or package. If you only want to refund one or a few games from the bundle, Steam's policy may not allow for a partial refund. In this scenario, your best option is to request a refund for the entire bundle and, if successful, repurchase the games you wish to keep individually.
Additionally, certain types of content, such as movies, DLCs, and in-game purchases, may not be eligible for refunds in some cases. Also, refunds for gifts are subject to the recipient’s agreement and cannot be refunded once redeemed. It's always advisable to consult Steam's official refund policy for the most up-to-date information.
Steam’s Refund Policy for Hardware
The refund policy extends beyond games and software, covering hardware purchases as well. With the introduction of Steam Deck, Valve's handheld gaming device, the company has implemented specific guidelines for hardware refunds. Customers have a window of 14 days from the date when they received the product to initiate a refund for Steam Deck or other Steam hardware purchases, provided the item has not been modified, misused, or is no longer in an acceptable condition due to testing it in an excessive manner.
It’s important to note that certain accessories or peripherals may not be eligible for refunds, and customers are responsible for covering the return shipping costs.
Enjoying Your Steam Games: Minimize Your Need for Refunds
While refunds are a legitimate option when needed, it's generally better to avoid the refund process altogether. To increase the likelihood of being satisfied with a game purchase on Steam, consider following some best practices. First, thoroughly research the game by reading reviews, watching gameplay videos, and familiarizing yourself with its features and limitations to ensure it meets your expectations.
Additionally, verify that your computer meets the minimum system requirements for the game to run smoothly. A gaming laptop like Acer’s Predator Helios Neo 18, for example, is a good option. Packed with top-of-the-line components, it delivers exceptional power to handle beyond the minimum required by most games, making it an excellent choice for futureproofing your gaming setup.
Another wise approach is to be patient and wait for sales or bundles, as the Steam store frequently offers discounts that allow you to save money on games you're interested in. For certain games, Steam provides a "Try Before You Buy" option, enabling you to test the game through a free trial period before committing to the purchase. Finally, engage with the game's community by joining relevant forums, Reddit communities, or Discord servers to gather insights and make a more informed decision prior to buying a Steam game.
By understanding how to refund a game on Steam, being proactive in your research, and exercising caution when making purchases, you can navigate the refund process smoothly and ensure a positive gaming experience on the platform.
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About Lalaine Capucion: Lalaine has been working as a freelance writer and editor for more than 12 years, focusing on lifestyle, travel, and wellness. When she isn’t writing, she's most likely curled up with a good book or trying out a new recipe in the kitchen. She lives in Metro Manila, Philippines.
