Eliana Willis

ZDNETBy design, Linux is about as secure an operating system as you’ll find. However, that level of security doesn’t mean there aren’t steps you can take to make it more secure.One thing you can do is enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for desktop logins. With this feature added to the process, you tap a six-digit code you retrieve from an authenticator app on your phone to log in to services and your user password.Also: The best VPN services (and how to choose the right one for you)Believe it or not, 2FA is pretty easy to set up. I would suggest, however, that you try this approach on a test machine. You do not want to get locked out of your main desktop, because, should that happen, it can be a nightmare to resolve.With that said, let me show you how to set up 2FA. More

Bluestar is a stunning Linux desktop operating system. Screenshot by Jack Wallen/ZDNETI love a customized desktop. Anytime a developer (or team of developers) can deliver a unique take on any of the Linux desktop environments, I’m all for it — and Bluestar Linux does not disappoint.Also: If you’re ready to break up with Windows, this is the Linux distro I suggest for new usersWhat is Bluestar Linux?Bluestar Linux is based on Arch and designed to be user-friendly. The desktop focuses on a unique aesthetic for KDE Plasma. Bluestar Linux features up-to-date packages and kernel, a full range of desktop and multimedia software, a live version, a customized KDE Plasma desktop environment, and is available in 32 and 64-bit versions. There is also a Bluestar Linux software repository, which is maintained to provide additional applications outside the standard repositories.Also: Archcraft is a solid, super fast distro for anyone ready to move beyond beginner LinuxBluestar Linux has three main editions: Desktop, Deskpro, and Developer. Each of the editions is geared to specific users. I opted to review the Desktop version, which most users will want.The default installation includes apps like GIMP, VLC media player, LibreOffice, FileZilla (FTP client), Firefox, Pidgin (messaging client), a Bluesky app, Thunderbird, and much more.  More

Prakhar Khanna/ZDNETHuawei just unveiled the world’s first tri-fold phone, the Mate XT Ultimate, in its home country late last year. We weren’t holding out hope for a global release, but it’s finally coming outside China after receiving a record number of preorders — even before the pricing was announced. Also: The best Android phones to buy in 2025The Huawei Mate XT Ultimate pushes the boundaries of what you can expect from a phone by fitting a 10.2-inch screen inside your pocket — all in a slimmer form factor than more recent foldable phones. I’ve spent 24 hours with the tri-fold phone, and here’s what makes it better than any other book-style foldable on the market right now.The design itself is a technological marvel More

Best Buy’s Presidents’ Day sale is expected to run from Feb. 10-17, but it’s likely some of these deals may hang around a bit after that, especially at competing retailers. However, if there’s something you’re eyeing, we’d recommend scooping it up now. Deals are subject to sell out or expire at any time, though ZDNET remains committed to finding, sharing, and updating the best product deals for you to score the best savings. Our team of experts regularly checks in on the deals we share to ensure they are still live and obtainable. We’re sorry if you’ve missed out on a deal, but don’t fret — we’re constantly finding new chances to save and sharing them with you at ZDNET.com.  More

ZDNETPresidents’ Day 2025 is over, but there’s still time to shop seasonal savings on home, tech, apparel, and more. Nearly every major retailer is slashing prices, even after the holiday. Perhaps one of the easiest retailers you can skim deals at? Amazon More

ZDNET only writes about deals we want to buy — devices and products we desire, need, or would recommend. Our experts looked for deals that were at least 20% off (or are hardly ever on sale), using established price comparison tools and trackers to determine whether the deal is actually on sale and how frequently it drops. We also looked over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the deals we’re recommending. Our recommendations may also be based on our own testing — in addition to extensive research and comparison shopping. The goal is to deliver the most accurate advice to help you shop smarter.  More

Best Buy’s Presidents’ Day sale is expected to run from Feb. 10-17, but it’s likely some of these deals may hang around a bit after that, especially at competing retailers. However, if there’s something you’re eyeing, we’d recommend scooping it up now. Deals are subject to sell out or expire at any time, though ZDNET remains committed to finding, sharing, and updating the best product deals for you to score the best savings. Our team of experts regularly checks in on the deals we share to ensure they are still live and obtainable. We’re sorry if you’ve missed out on a deal, but don’t fret — we’re constantly finding new chances to save and sharing them with you at ZDNET.com.  More

ZDNETPresidents’ Day 2025 is wrapping up, but there’s still time to shop seasonal savings on home, tech, apparel, and more. Nearly every major retailer is slashing prices, even late into the holiday. Perhaps one of the easiest retailers you can skim deals at? Amazon More