How to turn a USB flash drive into a secure key for your PC

The extra layer of security you must have!

USB flash drive

Just having a password set on your PC in Windows 11 isn’t a sure way to stop hackers from physically gaining access to your PC — yes, it can be bypassed. But there is another security measure you can take.

For an extra layer of protection, you can turn a humble USB drive into a secure key that will lock and unlock your PC, making it much harder for intruders to gain access. Here’s how…

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What to do…

Windows 11 has a facility to set up a secure USB key. But I prefer to use the free third-party app USB Raptor, which gives me a little more control over how my key works.

  • Get a USB flash drive without any files loaded on it. I’m using theSanDisk 16GB Ultra Fit, which cost me $9 on Amazon.
  • Download and installUSB Raptorand launch the app. It will launch in configuration mode with three steps to complete to set up your secure key.
  • Step 1: Choose an encryption password and write it down somewhere so you don’t forget it.
  • Step 2: Plug in your USB flash drive and choose the correct drive letter it was allocated. Now clickCreate k3y file.
  • Step 3: Before you enable USB Raptor, you’ll want to create a backdoor login in case you lose your key.
Secure USB flash drive key

USB Raptor launches a three step configuration process. 

Create a backdoor login

  • In the top-right corner of the app click in the box next toAdvanced configuration.
  • Click onLock featuresin the top menu. Navigate down toBackdoor access.
  • Now clickGenerate RUID file. This will create a file on your desktop that will allow you to bypass the lockscreen if you forget your password and the USB key is removed from your PC.

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Secure USB flash drive key

Creating the RUID file for backdoor access in USB Raptor. Pro tip: If you’re not keen on using USB Raptor, there are numerous other security apps to choose from. Two others include Predator and Rohos Logon Key Free. While some of what you can do in these apps is free you will have to pay to unlock a full suite of features.>>>Replacement battery for Sony DCR-PC1000E

More things to note:

  • Be sure to label your USB flash drive security key so that you never mix it up with other drives you own.
  • Use a USB drive with a fast read/write speed to make your login quicker.
  • Before you create a key, back up your data to ensure you don’t lose it.

If you’ve followed the steps above, you should now have a secure key that will make your PC more secure — as well as backdoor access in case anything goes wrong. If you don’t want to use your key, simply deactivate it in the app.

Microsoft confirms Classic Outlook typing issue causing CPU spikes

Outlook.com

Ina poston Microsoft’s Support blog, the company warns that typing in a recent version of classic Outlook can lead to highCPU usage. The issue could cause CPU usage to spike by up to 50%, and the company recommends switching to the Microsoft 365 Apps update channel as a temporary workaround.

The problems occur when composing an email in Version 2406 (Build 17726.20126) on the Current Channel, Monthly Enterprise Channel, orInsider Channels. Affected users report CPU usage increases between 20% and 50%, which can also raise power consumption. Microsoft says the Outlook team is investigating and will provide further updates as they become available.

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Microsoft also suggests a workaround that involves switching to the Semi-Annual Channel, where the issue has not been detected. The affected users say that possible solutions, such as turning off add-ins, graphics acceleration, and spell-check, did not fix the problem. The software giant provides a guide with the necessary steps to switch to a different channel to avoid these problems. You can also use the registry command to switch to the Semi-Annual Channel by opening the Command prompt window as an administrator > paste reg add HKLMSoftwarePoliciesMicrosoftoffice16.0commonofficeupdate /v updatebranch /t REG_SZ /d SemiAnnual > press Enter> add the registry key > choose File > Office Account > Update Options > Update Now. Once you complete these steps, the process should begin.

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Even high-end systems aren’t immune. Some users with Intel Core i9-14900HX processors report CPU temperatures hitting 95 degrees Celsius, with nothing more than a ‘New Message’ window open. These reports go back as far as November of last year, but we hope a permanent solution is found soon since an overheated CPU can cause all sorts of issues, such as crashes and freezes. These problems can be devastating when working on important projects since you risk losing your work unless you create a backup.

Google Search is getting a unified domain for US and global users

Country-coded URLs are being phased out.

Google Search on HP Chromebase

What you need to know

  • Google is moving to the google.com domain for Search around the world.
  • Previously, Google used country-coded domains for regions outside the U.S.
  • The experience of using Google Search won’t change, as Google has been using physical location to localize Search since 2017.

Google has long used country-coded domains for non-U.S. regions, like google.co.uk for the United Kingdom or google.ng for Nigeria. For a while, these country-specific URLs were crucial in providing locally-relevant results in response to user queries.

However, since 2017, Google has been using your real-time location to provide relevant results — making the country codes redundant. As such, the companyannouncedtoday, April 15 that it is phasing out country code top-level domain names (ccTLD).

Beginning now, Google will be moving country-specificSearchdomains to the main google.com URL. The process will be part of a gradual rollout lasting “over the coming months.”

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The change is intended to streamline the experience of using Google Search regardless of your country or location, per the company. Search itself isn’t changing, but as part of the switch, users may have to enter some of their preferences again for the new domain.

As has been the case since 2017, Google will use your physical location to localize your search results. For instance, if you’re living in the U.S., you will get the Search experience for France if you travel to Paris. When you go back, you’ll automatically be switched to the U.S. experience again.

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“It’s important to note that while this update will change what people see in their browser address bar, it won’t affect the way Search works, nor will it change how we handle obligations under national laws,” the company said in the blog post.

HDMI vs USB-C: which one is right for you?

When linking up screens and devices, which connectivity option should you choose? We compare the two most popular, HMDI vs. USB-C, in this article

HDMI vs USB-C

Over the years, connectivity options have increased when it comes to linking up screens, multiple monitors and a selection of different devices, includingbest laptops for video editing.

Central to this is the fact that newer modes of connectivity, such as USB-C, can also offer data transfer as well as video and audio signal – we’ll discuss the merits of each system in this article, as well as how in the realm of digital creativity, understanding these systems and how to make the most out of them is paramount.

As HDMI and USB-C interfaces determine how you connect to thebest monitors for video editing, transfer data and power devices, they directly impact workflow efficiency and output quality as well, so it’s worthwhile having a grasp on them. So, let’s get into it!

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What is HDMI?

(Image credit: Adobe Stock)

High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is an audio and video interface that was introduced in 2003, largely to replace the increasingly outmoded DVI format. HDMI was designed to transmit uncompressed video and audio data and since the early 2000s has become the standard for connecting high-definition devices. It supports various resolutions, from standard definition to 4K and beyond, and is commonly found in almost any monitor, television and projector on the market, as well as a wide array of consumer electronics. Like any technology, time sees the platform upgraded, so over the year HDMI has evolved, with versions like HDMI 2.0 and HDMI 2.1 offering enhanced bandwidth and features such as higher refresh rates and dynamic HDR.

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What is USB-C?

Designed to replace the first incarnation of the USB port, USB-C, or Universal Serial Bus Type-C, is a very versatile connector standard that’s emerged over the course of the last decade. It’s Characterised by its small, reversible design, which unlike USB-A makes it very easy to use on the go. What’s also useful is that it support a multitude of functions, including data transfer, video output and power delivery and its adaptability has led to widespread adoption across a number of small devices from smartphones to laptops and docking stations. For creatives it’s also notable and interesting because USB-C can also support different protocols through alternate modes, so DisplayPort can be used to power screens, and Thunderbolt for high-speed data transfer and video output capabilities.

HDMI Compatibility

HDMI compatibility

HDMI’s widespread adoption over the course of the last twenty years ensures compatibility across a broad spectrum of devices, so it’s unlikely many devices on the market at the moment won’t come with an HDMI option. Whether connecting a laptop to a monitor, a games console to a TV or a PC to a projector in a conference room, HDMI is still the fail-safe go-to and provides a reliable and straightforward solution. Its plug-and-play nature means devices typically recognise connections instantly, minimising setup time, but it’s worth bearing in mind that they only support video and audio and not data transfer, so additional cables will be required for other functions. HDMI is also now an older platform and it’s time may be limited. Some devices, most significantlyApple’s MacBooks started shipping a few years ago with USB-C connectivity only.

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Data Transfer

For devices that offer USB-C, its versatility extends beyond connectivity and its ability to transmit data, deliver power and support several video outputs makes it a multifunctional interface that’s here to stay. There’s a design and aesthetic benefit too, as one cable that provides a multitude of functions reduces clutter, simplifies setups and means you have far less lead management to carry out.

The caveat to all of the above, however, is that not all USB-C ports are created equal, and the capabilities of a USB-C port depends on the specific protocols it supports. For example, some USB-C ports may support DisplayPort Alternate Mode for video output, such as on a Mac, while others might include Thunderbolt 3 or 4 support that offering higher data transfer rates and enhanced display capabilities. Some may only offer one or the other, or a lower transfer rate.

Compared to HDMI, there are more variables to content with and a larger array of setups on offer, which makes it useful to know your requirements as a creative before you take the plunge on a USB-C only setup.

Which is best for creatives?

Which connectivity option is best for creatives?

So, in conclusion, if you’re a creative professional and you’re looking at these two different interfaces, how do you know which one to choose or favour over the other? It really hinges on your specific needs and device capabilities. If you’re a photo editor, for example, HDMI offers robust and reliable transmission, making it ideal for straightforward display connections and accurate representation of colour across industry standards. It also opens you up to more screens and cheaper display options, such as its ubiquity.

However, as technology progresses, there’s no doubt that USB-C, with its multifaceted data and power capabilities, provides a more comprehensive solution. Its ability to handle multiple things through a single port can streamline workflows and reduce the number of cables required, and this consolidation is particularly beneficial if you’re a creative who juggles multiple devices and peripherals. It’s also a more future-proof platform, and if I was a video editor or content creator, I would spend a little more money to purchase kit with high-speed USB-C compatibility to ensure compatibility with emerging technologies. Nonetheless, it’s crucial to ensure that your USB-C ports support the necessary protocols, such as DisplayPort Alternate Mode or Thunderbolt, to fully leverage these benefits.

Generally, USB-C’s versatility and expanding adoption make it a more adaptable choice for creatives today, but if you’re working on older hardware, or would like to link up multiple screens, HDMI still provides a workable and ubiquitous option that can be operated for a fraction of the cost, too.

What is Nvidia’s neural rendering and why is it important?

Everything you need to know about the cutting-edge RTX feature showcased in the new Zorah tech demo.

A scene from Nvidia Zorah tech demo with Nvidia neural rendering

(Image credit: Nvidia)

Nvidiahas been at the forefront of recent advances in graphics. After all, it makes many of thebest graphics cards.

It’s pioneered the introduction of programmable shaders, real-time ray tracing, and AI-powered technologies like DLSS and RTX Neural Shaders. Nvidia’s neural rendering is the next advance – as demonstrated in an update to its Zorah tech demo.

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What is Nvidia’s neural rendering?

Nvidia describes neural rendering as the next era of computer graphics, integrating neural networks into the rendering process, to offer a leap forward in performance, image quality, and interactivity.

Part of the RTX Kit, neural rendering uses AI to enhance graphics by compressing complex shader code and textures. The aim is to enable cinema-quality visuals at game-ready frame rates, and with supporting features like RTX Neural Materials and DLSS 4.

Nvidia RTX Neural Shaders add small neural networks into programmable shaders. The technology framework enables the training and deployment of neural networks directly within shaders, enabling users to compress game data and shader code and approximate film-quality materials, volumes, geometry, and more in real time.

Nvidia’s Zorah tech demo

(Image credit: Nvidia)

Nvidia has updated its Zorah tech demo with new scenes that it says “push the boundaries of RTX real-time path tracing” and showcase the stunning power of neural rendering on new Blackwell-poweredGeForceRTX 50 Series GPUs.

For the new scenes, Nvidia’s Lightspeed Studios created procedural materials inSubstance 3D Designerand highly detailed textures inSubstance 3D Painterin what it describes as its “most ambitious tech demo yet.”

“Our goal with the RTX Neural Materials demo was to demonstrate how AI-accelerated rendering can enhance PBR textures and BSDF materials,” it says. “We were able to render complex real-world visual phenomena that would typically be challenging to achieve traditionally in real-time.”

Substance 3D Painter played an important role to achieve highly detailed textures, using its ability to handle complex geometries, detailed asset texturing and UDIM support.

The team first modeled and sculpted inBlender. They created a set of tile materials using Substance 3D Designer with multiple variations of details and exported to the Painter shelf. Texturing was done in Painter using a composition of multiple layers from base stone adding accents of gold and different layers of dirt and weathering to make the asset look like a real-life scan.

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Finally, the UVs were done using 6 x 4k UDIMs textures and exported toUnreal Engine. It used the new RTX Mega Geometry technology, RTX Global Illumination and NVIDIA RTX Path Tracing. You can read the full breakdown onAdobe’s websiteand you can learn more about the tech in theNvidia Developer Technical Blog.