Information Technology

Schools and colleges will often block websites and online services in the name of safety, but sometimes, these blocks become a frustrating catch-all or accidentally restrict educational resources. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can help you circumvent these blocks and firewalls by disguising your IP address and rerouting your traffic through a server network, hiding your online activities and preventing you from being monitored by school or college administrators. Also: The best VPNs for streamingStudents have enough to manage without being prevented from accessing online resources. Indeed, as a former teacher, I would use a VPN in some of the schools I worked at to stop myself from being blocked from social media and other services. To easily bypass existing restrictions, you need a VPN service that combines privacy, speed, a robust server network, and one that has a reputation for successfully managing firewalls and restrictive policies.What is the best school VPN right now?Our pick for the best school VPN is NordVPN More

Keeper ZDNET’s key takeaways Keeper<!–> offers secure password management starting at $34.99 annually for individual users and $74.99 annually for families of up to five. Secure file storage and data breach alerts are available as add-ons starting at $9.99 per year and $19.99 per year, respectively.  Keeper offers the essentials of password management with an […] More

If you’re looking for an excellent virtual private network (VPN) for your iPad, or you want to explore your options before picking up a new tablet during holiday Apple sales, we’ve completed the legwork for you.VPNs are valuable tools for maintaining online security and privacy. These services layer encryption on top of your web requests and online communication, making it very difficult to track your activities. Furthermore, VPNs can be used to mask your IP address and change what appears to be your location.Also: The best travel VPNsThe best VPNs for Apple’s iPad tablet range provide users with excellent security, strong encryption, rapid speeds, and an extensive server network.  We’ve tested every top VPN on the market, and based on our extensive personal experience, research, and customer reviews, have found the best iPad VPNs available. What is the best iPad VPN right now?Based on extensive testing, our pick for the best VPN for iPad is NordVPN More

June Wan/ZDNETZDNET’s key takeawaysExpressVPN More

NurPhoto/Getty Images If you’ve used Google over the last few months, you may have noticed not only an increase in AI summaries but — as some in the search community are speculating — an increase in personalized search results. While that’s not necessarily a bad thing, it does mean you might not see the results you want. […] More

<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Blink Mini 2 is available for $40 on its own or bundled with a weather-resistant power adapter for $50 With a stronger construction, improved video quality, a new spotlight, person detection, and weather resistance for outdoor use, the Blink Mini 2 is a definite upgrade from the first generation As […] More

A strong password and username combination is not enough to keep your online accounts secure. With data breaches happening daily, many online service providers now enforce alternative ways to secure accounts. Two-factor and multi-factor authentication (2FA/MFA) methods have become widely adopted alongside early passwordless authentication methods. You may also be able to choose to verify yourself using a physical security key.  Even if a cybercriminal has obtained your username and password or compromised your mobile device, they won’t be able to access your data without the key. Security keys are affordable and user-friendly, and they also prevent phishing attacks and are significantly more secure than SMS-based two-factor authentication. Also: The best home security systems, from DIY to pro installation What is the best security key right now? ZDNET’s favorite security key is the Yubico YubiKey 5 NFC More

SOPA Images/Getty Images Another streaming service is giving freeloaders the boot. Over the next few weeks, Discovery Max (formerly HBO Max) will start the process of cutting off members who are sharing their accounts with someone outside the home. The streaming service first announced this change in March of this year. Also: The best live […] More