Dell Technologies introduces Project Fort Zero to Transform Security

Dell Technologies introduces Project Fort Zero to provide an end-to-end Zero Trust security solution for global organizations to protect against cyberattacks. The solution will be validated by the U.S. Department of Defense and is part of a Dell Security portfolio expansion.

Project Fort Zero builds on the momentum of Dell’s Zero Trust Center of Excellence and partner ecosystem to accelerate Zero Trust adoption. Leading an ecosystem of more than 30 leading technology companies, Dell will deliver a validated, advanced maturity Zero Trust solution within the next 12 months.

“Zero Trust is designed for decentralized environments, but integrating it across hundreds of point products from dozens of vendors is complex – making it out of reach for most organizations,” said Herb Kelsey, industry chief technology officer, government, Dell Technologies. “We’re helping global organizations solve today’s security challenges by easing integration and accelerating adoption of Zero Trust.”

Dell Project Fort Zero to deliver validated Zero Trust solution

The fully configured Project Fort Zero solution will lower the barrier to Zero Trust adoption. Dell will take on the technology integration and orchestration that typically falls to individual organizations across several vendors. In doing so, the estimated time for advanced Zero Trust adoption is reduced through a private cloud.

To achieve validation, a government assessment team will evaluate the Project Fort Zero solution for advanced maturity accreditation and certify compliance against the U.S. Department of Defense Zero Trust reference architecture, which is recognized around the world. This end-to-end solution will help global public- and private-sector organizations adapt and respond to cybersecurity risks while offering the highest level of protection.

Project Fort Zero can serve a variety of use cases including:

  • In on-premises data centers for organizations where data security and compliance are paramount.
  • In remote or regional locations like retail stores where secure, real-time analysis of customer data can deliver a competitive advantage.
  • In the field where a temporary implementation is needed in places with intermittent connectivity, like airplanes or vehicles, for operational continuity.

“Organizations are turning to Zero Trust to modernize their cybersecurity programs and keep pace with an evolving attack landscape. But determining where to start, the capabilities to prioritize and the actions needed to progress towards maturity can be complicated,” said John Grady, principal analyst, Enterprise Strategy Group. “Security and IT leaders need help planning their strategy and implementing the tools to support it. Project Fort Zero can help accelerate this process by delivering a repeatable blueprint for an end-to-end solution that is based on a validated reference architecture recognized around the world.”

Dell expands security services portfolio with launch of PSX for Backup

Along with Project Fort Zero, Dell is expanding its security portfolio with Product Success Accelerator (PSX) for Backup, a new service to help organizations protect and recover data in the event of disruption.

PSX for Backup simplifies the implementation and maintenance of backup environments to enable data recovery. It follows the recent release of PSX for Cyber Recovery, which implements and helps operationalize an isolated cyber recovery vault.

Organizations can choose from three levels of backup or cyber recovery based on their needs:

  • Ready includes planning workshops, configuration of a validated backup or vault environment, a success plan, a runbook and outcome-based skills training.
  • Optimize adds quarterly assessments, improvement recommendations and assisted restore test simulations.
  • Operate adds ongoing operational assistance to meet the solution’s performance objectives. Highly skilled experts monitor and investigate alerts, initiate corrective actions and help with restore tasks at the customer’s direction.

Availability

  • Project Fort Zero’s advanced maturity Zero Trust solution will be available to public- and private-sector organizations within the next 12 months.
  • Dell Product Success Accelerator for Backup is now available in locations across North America, Europe and Asia Pacific.
  • Dell Product Success Accelerator for Cyber Recovery expanded availability to locations in Europe, Latin America and Asia Pacific, in addition to North America.

Tech Review – PROSCREENCAST – SC01 Miracast Dongle For TV, 4k

ProScreenCast provides integrated solutions for wireless screen sharing and digital signage. This is a scalable solution with a significant return on investment, including reduced meeting downtime and IT maintenance. SC01 doesn’t need an app, and WiFi (When there is no WiFi, you can only project what your device has downloaded to the big screen), plug-n-play. Ideal for hotels, home theatres and meetings. Internal and guest presenters can easily share their screens in an instant, improving the overall work and learning experience, while increasing productivity and participation.

This is nothing new in the tech world but it offer users portability and more options than other screen cast devices out there and is multiplatform with no app required, you do however get a dashboard to work from to change the settings to your needs and of course you need the right equipment to handle it and things stand out in 4K as you will see in the video below.

 

Set-Up

Apple 

First connect the WiFi of the receiver to the mobile phone, the name is “ProScreenCast-xxxxxx”, and the password is 12345678.
Next, enter “192.168.203.1” or scan the QR code to search in the browser.
Finally, click “Resolution” and select “3840p / 2160p / 60p”. The device supports high bit rate 60Hz, and 30p and 60p can be selected as needed.

Android 

The first step is to click WIFI on the phone settings page to locate and connect the device SC01 (name: ProScreenCast-xxxxxx, password: 12345678).
The second step is to type 192.168.203.1 in the mobile / tablet browser.
The third step is to click “Resolution” and select “3840p / 2160p / 60p”. The device supports high bit rate 60Hz, and 30p and 60p can be selected as needed.

Note: to transmit 4K video, make sure your monitor, video source, and HDMI cable support 4K@60Hz (HDMI 2.0). You can adjust the output resolution by setting to match your monitor. At the same time, you can turn HDR on and off.
When you enter the IP address and see the WiFi settings page, you can first click the arrow icon in the upper left corner to exit the page, and then select the resolution settings.

Features

  • True 4K@60Hz With HDR: SC01 Miracast dongle builds with HDMI 2.0 and supports up to 4k and HDR color.
  • Low Latency: Support both 2.4G/5.8G dual bands, ensuring you have full WiFi coverage and optimal speed for streaming.
  • Wide Compatibility: Support Miracast, Airplay, and DLNA. Compatible with Android, macOS, iOS, Windows, and ChromeOS.
  • Easy To Setup, No App Required: 3 steps to connect, no need app. Seniors and children can also connect in 3 mins.
  • Small And Portable: Mirror your device on the screen anytime, anywhere
  • 🎁 10% OFF For Your First Order! (Code: ICAST)

BUY

Video Review

Charlotte Tilbury Launches Her First Ever App

Charlotte Tilbury, founder of Charlotte Tilbury Beauty, has launched her first-ever app, designed to revolutionise beauty and use the power of technology to bring Charlotte’s innovation and easy to choose, easy to use products to everyone, everywhere!

The app is a living manifestation of Charlotte’s mission to democratise and simplify beauty for all. Designed for everyone everywhere, no matter their level of beauty expertise, the Charlotte Tilbury app is an interactive platform that harnesses the power of Charlotte’s artistry expertise, plus the power of best-in-class artificial intelligence to educate, inspire, and reward new and existing customers.

Charlotte Tilbury MBE, Founder, President, Chairman and Chief Creative Officer, said:

“My app is like having me in your pocket – 24/7 – so that everyone, everywhere, can download beauty confidence! It’s a beauty tech world-first, the only place you can access a truly immersive and empowering beauty experience all in one app!

“It’s always been my mission to democratise and decode beauty and skincare, and this incredible app achieves this – it’s expert artistry at your fingertips!! This has been years in the making – the tech has finally caught up with my vision to make easy beauty for you!! It’s powered by my years of expertise and my unique artistry algorithm, backed by data science and customer insight. It takes all my knowledge, secrets, tips and tricks from my 30 year career with how-to tutorials delivering easy beauty for everyone – unlocking all my backstage secrets, exclusive behind-the-scenes content, and app-only product drops.

“It’s a truly immersive and empowering beauty experience, home to my pro-beauty and pro-skin analysis tech tools, helping you build your personalised beauty wardrobe and routine – all powered by AI + deep learning.

“It’s my one tap wonder to instant beauty magic!!”

The Charlotte Tilbury Beauty app delivers incredible innovation throughout the entire customer journey:

  • PERSONALISED BEAUTY WARDROBE IN YOUR POCKET: Get your perfect shade matches and your immediate personalised skin revival routine in under 60 seconds!* Powered by AI, Charlotte’s advanced pro-beauty tech tools will give you the best skincare, complexion, and colour products tailored to your skin tone and skin needs! It’s like having instant access to Charlotte’s expertise for every step of your beauty journey!
  • APP-ONLY EXCLUSIVES: Downloading Charlotte’s app will unlock first access to shop all new! beauty secrets before anyone else! It’s an exclusive beauty treasure chest of viral, sell-out sensations, back-in-stock icons, new beauty secrets and app only drops.
  • LEARN HOW TO APPLY LIKE A PRO: Discover Charlotte’s first ever beauty video library, home to all of her how-to tutorials and quick application tricks. See the incredible transformations as you watch, learn and brush along! Whether you are a beauty novice or expert, there are videos for everyone! Plus, unlock access to never seen before, exclusive app only content!
  • ALL ACCESS RED CARPET CONTENT: Get the looks straight from the red carpet and runway! Discover how to get my iconic red carpet looks worn by celebrities and supermodels. You can watch exclusive behind the scenes footage and easily shop the product to recreate the look at home!

  • CONFIDENCE BUILDING AFFIRMATIONS: Delivering Charlotte’s mission to make everyone feel beautiful from within, you can start your day with mood-boosting affirmations! A daily dose of positivity to spread confidence, happiness, love and luck to conquer your world!
  • QUICK + EASY SHOPPING ON-THE-GO: Shopping for beauty on-the-go has never been easier! Enjoy exclusive first access to Charlotte’s new innovations and app-only beauty secrets, magical loyalty rewards and so so much more!

Corinne Suchy, Chief Growth and Technology Officer at Charlotte Tilbury Beauty, said: 

“Charlotte Tilbury Beauty goes beyond being an industry leading beauty brand – it is a technology company revolutionising the beauty industry! Inspired by Charlotte’s industry-disrupting vision, we love to find that line where technology is indistinguishable from magic, and we will only continue to bring our customers and community incredible innovation!

“Our goal has always been for our community to feel like they are engaging 1-2-1 with Charlotte, because there is nothing quite like experiencing her energy and her expertise first- hand! We created this app because we truly want everyone, everywhere to feel they are in her makeup chair experiencing the power of her artistry and confidence-boosting positivity.

“We want to reach those customers around the world, of all ages, genders and backgrounds, who haven’t felt that professional makeup artistry or expert skincare advice is accessible to them … Charlotte’s app is for both the beauty beginner who wants to unlock their beauty confidence and understand what their beauty wardrobe of skincare and makeup looks like… and for our engaged community which wants to discover even more of Charlotte’s expert artistry!”

“We say that this app is like having Charlotte in your pocket. It’s instant access to all of her beauty tips and tricks which can unlock your beauty confidence, and is designed to make your beauty experience as easy and personal as possible. We use the power of technology and the power of beauty to bring Charlotte’s innovation and easy to choose, easy to use mantra to life!

“Charlotte’s creative vision has always transcended multiple dimensions and worlds, across the digital, the virtual and the physical realms. Charlotte’s app is her vision powered by the latest technology which allows us to push the boundaries of creativity, storytelling, and interactivity and create deeper relationships with our customers and new relationships beyond our community.”

Businesses urged to update analytics before June deadline

Carlow-based design studio, Stratticus, is urging businesses to update their Google Analytics before the looming June 30th deadline.

Google has announced that starting on July 1st 2023, the standard Universal Analytics will stop working. This means that businesses using Google Analytics will have to make the switch to GA4 before June 30th to continue measuring their website traffic accurately.

As the deadline for the transition to Google Analytics 4 (GA4) approaches, Stratticus reminds businesses of the potential impact on their website data if they fail to implement the change thoroughly. The Bagenalstown digital studio advises businesses to prioritise this update to avoid losing valuable data and insights.

John Foy, Creative Director and former Carlow IT Lecturer in Digital Marketing explains,

“From July 1st onwards users of Google Analytics will no longer have access to critical historical data which will affect certain aspects of their business like bidding for ads, audiences or conversion data in Google Ads or on third-party integrations like Facebook.

This is a great update from Google with some valuable new features. Having said that, it’s not adequate to simply click on the Google reminder email to update your analytics as there is a high potential of missing integration of key third-party apps like Salesforce, Calendly and Hubspot. The fix is relatively simple however we recommend contacting your website developers or hosting company to ensure that the transition is smooth.”

GA4 offers a more comprehensive approach to website analytics, providing businesses with deeper insights into user behaviour and preferences. This change is part of Google’s ongoing efforts to improve user privacy and data protection.

Stratticus is reminding businesses, particularly eCommerce businesses and those relying on historical data for Pay per Click (PPC) advertising to make the transition to GA4 as soon as possible to avoid any potential disruptions to their analytics data.

By taking action now, Irish businesses can ensure a smooth transition to Google Universal Analytics and capitalise on the benefits of the updated data. For more information on this update and how to ensure your website is ready, contact Stratticus today.

Guinness WhatsApp Mini Fridge for Fathers Day Scam

Another day another scam has just landed on WhatsApp and this time Guinness maker Diageo are apparently giving away free mini fridges full of beer for Fathers Day which is quickly approaching, in fact I got two of these text in succession and you can see the screenshots below as what you will see on your device but do not open the link.

In the so called quiz you will be asked a few questions then you will be given three chance to open a parcel and it is most likely you will be told you won with so many mini fridges left which changes every time you enter, so it is certainly a scam and it should be ignored

We have contacted Guinness for a statement on this and will revert back if we hear back from them. As always you should be vigilant and if it looks too good to be true it most likely is and there is many scams doing the rounds of late so beware. Update! A spokesperson since has stated they have nothing to do with the scam.

Check it out

Digital Transformation in Irish Trading: How Technology is Shaping the Future of Business

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, digital transformation has become a vital catalyst for growth and innovation. Irish trading firms are increasingly embracing technology to enhance their operations, improve efficiency, and gain a competitive edge in the global market. With advancements in automation, data analytics, and artificial intelligence, technology is reshaping the future of business in Ireland. In this article, we’ll take a look at the key technologies shaping the digital Irish trading transformation.

Automation Revolutionizing Trading Processes

One of the key areas where technology is revolutionizing Irish trading is through automation. Trading platforms and software solutions are streamlining manual processes, reducing human error, and enhancing efficiency. Automated trading systems, powered by algorithms, can execute trades at high speeds and respond to market conditions in real time. These systems use sophisticated algorithms to analyze vast amounts of data, identify trading opportunities, and execute trades with precision.

Additionally, automation extends beyond trade execution. Back-office functions such as settlement, reconciliation, and reporting can be automated, freeing up valuable time for traders and enabling them to focus on strategic decision-making. Traders can optimize their operations further by leveraging tools like the US economic calendar, which provides real-time updates on economic indicators that will have an effect across the world. With access to upcoming market events in various countries, traders can proactively adjust their trading strategies based on the latest information. The calendar ensures they stay informed about important economic events, whether they are scheduled for today, tomorrow, this week, or hold high importance.

Data Analytics Driving Informed Decision-Making

In the era of big data, the ability to extract meaningful insights from vast amounts of information is crucial for successful trading. Irish trading firms are harnessing the power of data analytics to gain a competitive advantage. By analyzing historical and real-time market data, traders can identify patterns, trends, and correlations that inform their investment strategies.

Data analytics tools not only help traders identify patterns and trends but also enable them to monitor market sentiment and assess risk. By analyzing historical and real-time market data, Irish trading firms can make data-driven predictions and adjust their strategies accordingly. These insights, combined with comprehensive information on economic events such as key indicators, government reports, and central bank announcements, empower traders to make informed decisions and stay ahead in the competitive trading landscape.

Artificial Intelligence Enhancing Trading Strategies

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly making its presence felt in Irish trading, enhancing trading strategies and improving overall performance. AI-powered algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data with speed and accuracy, identifying trading patterns and opportunities that may not be apparent to human traders. Machine learning algorithms can adapt and improve over time, continuously refining trading strategies based on market conditions.

Moreover, AI technologies such as natural language processing enable traders to analyze news sentiment and social media data, providing valuable insights into market trends and investor sentiment. By leveraging the power of AI-driven sentiment analysis, traders can quickly gauge the overall sentiment surrounding a particular asset or market, helping them make more informed trading decisions.

Digital transformation is reshaping the future of Irish trading by leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency, drive better decision-making, and optimize trading strategies. Automation, data analytics, and artificial intelligence are revolutionizing how Irish trading firms operate and compete in the global market. Embracing technology and leveraging tools like the US economic calendar will be crucial for Irish trading firms to thrive in the digital age.

Tips for Maintaining Alloy Wheels: Preserving Their Impressive Appearance

Alloy wheels are a popular choice among car enthusiasts for their aesthetic appeal and improved performance. However, to keep them looking great, regular maintenance is essential. In this article, we will provide valuable tips on how to maintain your alloy wheels, ensuring they stay in top condition. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or simply want to preserve the appearance of your wheels, these maintenance practices will help you achieve long-lasting shine and protection.

  1. Regular Cleaning: One of the most important steps in maintaining alloy wheels is regular cleaning. Start by rinsing the wheels with water to remove loose dirt and debris. Use a mild car detergent and a soft-bristle brush to gently scrub the surface of the wheels. Pay attention to hard-to-reach areas and crevices where dirt tends to accumulate. Rinse thoroughly and dry the wheels with a clean microfiber cloth to prevent water spots.
  2. Avoid Harsh Cleaning Products: When cleaning alloy wheels, it’s crucial to avoid harsh cleaning products that can damage the wheel’s finish. Acidic or abrasive cleaners should be avoided as they can cause discoloration or scratches. Stick to mild detergents specifically formulated for automotive use. Additionally, never use steel wool or rough brushes, as they can leave permanent marks on the wheel surface.
  3. Apply a Protective Coating: To provide an extra layer of protection, consider applying a specialized wheel sealant or wax. These products help guard against brake dust, road grime, and other contaminants that can tarnish the wheels. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application. Applying a protective coating also makes future cleaning easier and maintains the wheels’ shine.
  4. Inspect and Repair Damage: Regularly inspect your alloy wheels for any signs of damage, such as curb rash, scratches, or chips. Promptly addressing such issues can prevent further deterioration and maintain the wheels’ appearance. Small scratches can often be repaired using touch-up paint or alloy wheel repair kits available in the market. For more extensive damage, it’s advisable to consult a professional wheel repair service.
  5. Tyre Maintenance: Proper tyre maintenance is also essential for preserving the condition of your alloy wheels. Check the tyre pressure regularly and keep it at the recommended levels. Underinflated tyres can put extra stress on the wheels and increase the risk of damage. Additionally, rotate your tyres periodically to ensure even wear, which helps maintain wheel balance and prolongs their lifespan.

By following these maintenance tips, you can keep your alloy wheels looking great for years to come. Remember to clean them regularly using mild detergents, avoid harsh cleaning products, and apply a protective coating for added shine and protection. Regularly inspect and repair any damage, and don’t forget to take care of your tyres as well. If you’re looking for alloys in Portadown, we recommend visiting TSC Alloy Wheels Centre for the best deals. With proper care, your alloy wheels will continue to enhance the appearance of your vehicle and provide an enjoyable driving experience.

Tech Review – Urbanista Memphis Bluetooth Speaker

The Urbanista Memphis is one of the latest speakers on offer and two were announced recently and this one is the smaller of the two launched, not only that it is one the lightest speakers I have tested in some time and even for its size it packs a punch and has all the features you need to take it along with you anywhere. Being the size of a can of drink perhaps smaller being honest it is super portable and can be used anywhere be it the beach the pool your back garden or just sat on your bedside locker and will certainly get the tunes going with a great punch and bass behind it.

The speaker is as mentioned smaller than your average can of soft drink and has a nice fabric around the main housing, there is a rubber circular foot underneath to stop it moving however we did notice it moving as some speakers can sue to the vibration they give out, the is three buttons on the bottom to control the tracks pair another speaker and power it on and off, there is a port in the back to charge the unit via USB-C and a real bonus having a micro sd slot to add your own tunes to it which is handy and like me I do have a card loaded with tunes..

There was no distortion noted whatsoever when turned up to the max and highs lows and mids came out fine too, no matter what genre you throw at it the speaker sounds exceptionally good for its size and was better than I had anticipated. To top things off this can also be hung from a tree or your backpack or even bike with the large carabener clip that comes with it inside the box.

Check the video below for a full hands on tour and hear the samples for yourself.

Mix up the mood of the weekend pool party, beach gathering or camping trip with the ultra-portable Urbanista Memphis. Memphis is compatible with both Android and iOS devices so everyone’s invited to wirelessly share their favourite tracks through easy Bluetooth pairing. With up to 12 hours of playtime, this speaker will elevate the mood in any occasion for as long as you need it to. You can even connect two Memphis speakers together for a true stereo experience with the Stereo Link feature.

 

KEY FEATURES

Playtime 12 hours
Rain and splash proof (IPX5)
Button controls
USB Type-C charging
Dual speaker support
Carabiner hook
Dual stereo sound
100% recycled outer plastic

SPECIFICATIONS

Output power: 5 Watts
Bluetooth range: 10M
Bluetooth® version: 5.2
Audio source: BT5.3/TWS/HFP
Sound channel: Mono
Frequency Range: 20Hz-20KHz
Power Input: 5V-1A
Speaker: 2”*1
Battery: 1500mAh
Product dimension: 79*62*79mm
Weight: 190g

BUY

Video Review

Creative launches the Sound Blaster Katana SE soundbar

Creative Technology today announced the release of the Sound Blaster Katana SE, the latest gaming soundbar to join the ranks of the well-established Katana series, which now allows users to effortlessly enjoy powerful audio without the heft. With its award-winning bi-amplified four-driver system and Creative’s proprietary multi-core DSP, this latest soundbar can offer rich and powerful audio with excellent clarity and volume, even without the need for a subwoofer. Coupled with Super X-Fi technology, 5.1 virtual surround capabilities, and versatile connectivity options, the Sound Blaster Katana SE is the ideal soundbar for gamers, movie lovers, and music enthusiasts who want an elevated audio experience without compromising on space or audio quality.

The Sound Blaster Katana SE offers a seamless yet powerful audio solution for users looking to take their audio game up a notch. Fitted with 0.75″ fabric dome tweeters that help to produce cleaner and more refined highs and upgraded dual up-firing 3″ mid-bass drivers that deliver full-sounding bass, this latest soundbar surpasses expectations to deliver an impressive audio experience that belies its size. Like its predecessor, the Sound Blaster Katana SE is also a certified Dolby Audio decoder, which allows users to easily recreate the cinematic audio experience within the comfort of their own homes.

What sets the Sound Blaster Katana SE apart is its Super X-Fi technology, which allows users to enjoy an immersive audio experience through their headphones, perfect for late-night game binges without disturbing the neighbors. Moreover, gamers can also activate the SXFI Battle Mode and Scout Mode to gain a competitive advantage in FPS games by accurately pinpointing their enemy’s location with enhanced in-battle audio cues and sound detection.

By connecting the soundbar to the Creative app, users can personalize their audio experience with the Acoustic Engine suite and choose their preferred RGB illumination modes, making it uniquely their own. These customized settings can be saved as profiles on either the app or the programmable buttons on the remote control, giving users easy access to their favourite sound and lighting configurations. Furthermore, the soundbar can be easily mounted on the wall, making it a convenient and space-saving addition to any home entertainment setup.

The latest soundbar also works as a one-stop audio hub with a wide variety of connectivity options, including USB, HDMI ARC, optical port, headphone jack, and wireless Bluetooth 5.0. It also works with various platforms, from gaming consoles such as the PS5, PS4, Xbox series consoles, and Nintendo Switch to PCs, Macs, and mobile devices. The all-in-one soundbar also features a built-in beamforming microphone, which allows users to jump on calls directly from the soundbar, making it an ideal feature for video conferencing.

Lastly, this all-in-one soundbar enriches the Katana Series by presenting a more comprehensive line-up of audio solutions to cater to diverse use cases, making it easier for users to find the perfect fit for their audio needs.

Sound Blaster Katana SE is priced at UK£299.99, US$299.99, EU€329.99 and is available at Creative.com.

For more information, visit www.creative.com/katanase