Author: Jim O Brien/CEO

CEO and expert in transport and Mobile tech. A fan 20 years, mobile consultant, Nokia Mobile expert, Former Nokia/Microsoft VIP,Multiple forum tech supporter with worldwide top ranking,Working in the background on mobile technology, Weekly radio show, Featured on the RTE consumer show, Cavan TV and on TRT WORLD. Award winning Technology reviewer and blogger. Security and logisitcs Professional.

Decentralized VPNs vs Regular VPNs: What’s the Difference?

You might be familiar with decentralized VPNs (dVPNs), privacy services that declare themselves as a tool having the security and speed of VPN apps and the anonymity and flexibility of Tor. But the question is, how do dVPNs compare to regular VPNs?

For those who don’t know, Decentralized VPNs depend on an independent network of Internet-based “node” systems instead of operating on centralized servers used by traditional VPN services. The decentralization provides an edge to dVPNs while effectively bypassing geo-restrictions and internet censorship.

However, if you are looking for added security and enhanced privacy, you must check out the recommended VPN deals suggested by cybersecurity experts.

Let’s go through a brief comparison between decentralized VPNs and regular VPNs.

Decentralized VPNs vs Centralized VPNs

The structure is the primary difference between these two VPNs. A standard VPN, such as NordVPN or ExpressVPN, keeps or licenses a server network worldwide from which clients may control their connection. Typically housed in vast server farms and maintained by a third-party provider, despite being leased by VPNs.

This is not what dVPNs do. Rather than routing traffic via a centralized VPN connection, they operate a node-based network. Consider nodes to be points of entry and way out from the Internet, also of relay for connections. These nodes could be any form of device, including a laptop, smartphone, desktop, or server. Anything that transmits internet connections is essentially a node.

If you’ve invested a lot of time browsing the internet, the term “node” certainly prompted a Pavlovian reflex where you imagined “Tor”. There are a number of similarities between Tor and dVPNs, but there are some major differences that we’ll go through as we proceed.

Individual Network vs Centralized Service

dVPN users maintain dVPN nodes, which means common users. You aren’t a client when you join a decentralized VPN; you really aren’t paying them to execute a service. Rather, you connect to a network of people who both employ and donate nodes, similar to how Tor works.

Like Tor, you are not required to have a node; you may simply utilize another person’s nodes and be finished with it. But, far from Tor, which itself is run by volunteers and so has a limited number of nodes, dVPNs entice users to function as nodes, thereby paying users to utilize their devices. If you’re looking for reliable and trustworthy dVPN options, it’s worth considering the services offered by top VPN providers.

dVPNs Use Cryptocurrency

This is when the dVPNs crypto element plays a role, which is the second main difference between the newfangled privacy tools and standard VPNs. When you subscribe to ExpressVPN, you spend $100/year for service. You don’t spend anything for the service if you sign up for dVPN like Orchid. Rather, you purchase part of the network’s crypto, in this example, OXT, and spend it to compensate the operator of nodes you’re utilizing.

Obviously, the service provider receives a cut (the exact sum is unknown). However, this payment method distinguishes dVPN from VPNs and Tor. The figures we’re discussing aren’t huge, perhaps a few cents an hour, but they suggest that when you serve as a node, you might make enough to access other people’s nodes for free.

This is perfect for everyone because we all enjoy free goods, but it’s a particularly good thing for those in undeveloped countries because they are unable to pay for a VPN. Myanmar is a notable example, where protesters successfully circumvented strong govt internet restrictions by employing Mysterium VPN.

Obviously, because branded parts are used, dVPNs aren’t just a mere dVPN network; they are also a money grubber. When not used, some dVPNs will enable you to utilize your node to generate their coin.

While wagering on a developing cryptocurrency isn’t for everyone, given the crypto’s record in 2022, it’s an additional bonus leveraged by dVPN services to entice more customers.

dVPNs Operate on Blockchains

Again, when it comes to bitcoin, there is always blockchain, which is still another difference between dVPNs and VPNs. The main issue with any VPN is the logging: taking note of when you joined the server and which websites you browsed. Many VPNs profess to be no-logging VPNs or providers that neither maintain nor erase logs.

The truth is that these assertions are hard to verify. That is, it’s difficult to claim a no-logging promise. dVPNs, on the other hand, say they have overcome this dilemma by keeping every bit of this data on their blockchains. Every internet traffic data is kept there, accessible to all but anonymized.

In this manner, dVPNs are much more thorough than traditional VPNs since you can see what’s happening through logs and archives. If logs are really a key concern for you, dVPNs are a viable option.

Which Service Should You Get: dVPNs or VPNs?

These are the key differences between standard VPNs and decentralized VPNs, raising the issue of which one is the best alternative for you. It is wholly dependent on you, the user. As it is, dVPNs are still a niche option because they are a new concept. Like, we don’t know if dVPNs are just as secure as VPNs.

Till this time, dVPNs are an excellent alternative for crypto fans looking to explore a potential version of Web 3.0 ( the decentralized web) free of commercial meddling. It’s also a wonderful alternative for those who wish to utilize a VPN for free without joining up; simply buy or win some cryptocurrency, and you’re all set.

For typical web users, it is difficult to pinpoint what benefits dVPNs have against their equivalents. Most significantly, because nodes are harder to locate than VPN servers, dVPNs are ideal for watching Netflix. Still, dVPNs have good potential, and you should keep tabs on them as they expand.

Solana vs Algorand – Which One is Better?

The blockchain industry does not stop developing and evolving, meeting more interesting crypto projects with valuable technologies and applications. The crypto space now is the place for the biggest number of innovative products that are building our future. There are over 1000 different blockchain networks that host over 12 000 digital assets aimed at solving different problems of the industry (interoperability fees, scalability, sustainability) with their technological approaches. However, for a beginner crypto trader, it is difficult to pick really worthy assets for investment. This article will describe two popular crypto projects – Solana and Algorand, which have many similar features.

What is Solana?

Solana is a network for numerous applications, smart contracts, games, marketplaces, and metaverse projects. Developers pick this blockchain because:

  • high throughput;
  • low commissions;
  • sustainability;
  • staking.

The platform has got institutional adoption. The SOL coin is traded at $12.18. The market capitalisation of the project exceeds $4 billion.

What is Algorand?

The same as Solana, Algorand is based on the Proof-of-Stake consensus mechanism, which means ALGO coins can also be staked. The project is aimed at providing scalability, safety and decentralization to developers. Algorand is ranked first in terms of minimum carbon footprint among other blockchains.

Comparing Algorand vs Solana, we can say:

  • Solana performs much more operations per second, beating Algorand
  • Staking Solana coin is much more profitable.
  • Algorand beats Solana in terms of carbon footprint.
  • ALGO rate is $0.17, and the market cap is over $1 billion.

We dare to say that in this battle, Solana wins, but we never know how life turns and what awaits us in the future, so it is worth buying both SOL and ALGO coins for the long term.

You can buy and trade crypto on the WhiteBIT platform. Also, read overviews of up-and-coming crypto projects and trading recommendations on the WhiteBIT blog.

Tips for Safely Shipping Furniture Across the Country

Shipping furniture across the country can be a daunting task, especially if you are worried about ensuring the safety of your items during transit. However, whether you are moving to a new home or need to transport a piece of furniture to a friend or relative, there are several steps you can take to ensure that your items arrive safely at their destination.

Here are some tips for safely shipping furniture across the country:

Choose the Right Shipping Company

One of the most important things you can do to ensure furniture shipping goes smoothly is to choose a reputable shipping company. Look for a company with a track record of delivering items safely and on time. You may also want to consider the type of shipping service best for your needs. For example, if you are shipping a large or heavy piece of furniture, you may choose a company specializing in shipping large items. 

Properly Prepare Your Furniture for Shipping

Before you ship your furniture, you should take the time to properly prepare it for shipping. This includes disassembling any pieces that can be taken apart, such as beds or tables, and wrapping them in bubble wrap or other protective materials. It would help if you also considered adding padding to the corners and edges of your furniture to help protect it From Damage During Transit.

Use Sturdy Boxes or Crates

To ensure the safety of your furniture during shipping, it is essential to use sturdy boxes or crates that are large enough to accommodate your items. If you use a container, make sure it is made of sturdy cardboard and well-sealed with tape. If you are using a crate, make sure it is sturdy enough to hold the weight of your furniture and has a secure locking mechanism.

Shipping Containers for Bulk or Oversized Items

For large or bulky furniture, traditional packing may not provide enough protection during transit. Using shipping containers offers a secure and efficient solution, especially for heavy or multiple items. These containers are built to withstand rough handling and external conditions, minimizing the risk of damage. For those moving several pieces at once, alternative shipping solutions such as Premiershipping Containers AU for added durability and security can be a practical choice. Unlike standard crates, shipping containers provide reinforced structures that prevent shifting and impact-related damage. Choosing the right container size and adding proper padding ensures your furniture arrives safely at its destination.

 

Label Your Boxes or Crates

Labeling your boxes or crates with your name, address, contact information, and the destination address is essential. This will help to ensure that your items are delivered to the correct location. 

Insure Your Items

It would help if you considered purchasing insurance for your furniture to protect yourself in case of any damage or loss during shipping. This will provide you with peace of mind and help to cover any costs associated with repairing or replacing your items.

Use a Professional Moving Company

If you are moving a large amount of furniture or are concerned about your items’ safety during shipping, you may want to consider hiring a professional moving company. These companies are experienced in packing and shipping furniture and can handle the entire process for you, including packing, loading, and transporting your items.

By following these tips, you can ensure the safety of your furniture during shipping and have peace of mind knowing that your items will arrive at their destination in good condition. Whether you are moving to a new home or simply shipping a piece of furniture to a friend or relative, these guidelines will help to ensure that your items are protected during transit.

Games you’ll Love to Play This Festive Season!

The holiday season is a time for relaxation, fun, feast and spending time with loved ones. One way to do this is by playing mobile games. Mobile games are a great way to pass the time and have some fun, and there are so many different types to choose from that there’s something for everyone. Here are 10 mobile games to play this festive season:

Candy Crush: Candy Crush is a classic puzzle game that's perfect for the holiday season. In this game, you match candies to progress through levels and earn points. With over 2,000 levels and new ones added regularly, there's plenty of gameplay to keep you entertained for hours on end.

Pokémon Go: Pokémon Go is a popular augmented reality game that lets you catch virtual Pokémon in the real world. As you explore your surroundings, you’ll encounter different types of Pokémon and can catch them using Poké Balls. The game also has special events throughout the year, including holiday-themed events, so there’s always something new to do.

Mario Kart Tour: Mario Kart Tour is a mobile version of the popular Mario Kart franchise. In this game, you race against other players or computer-controlled characters in a variety of tracks inspired by the Mario franchise. The game also has special events and challenges, as well as different characters and karts to unlock.

Clash of Clans: Clash of Clans is a strategy game where you build a base, train troops, and attack other players bases. You can also join or create a clan and participate in clan wars. The game has a variety of troops, spells, and defenses to unlock and upgrade, providing plenty of depth and replayability.

Fortnite: Fortnite is a popular battle royale game where 100 players drop onto an island and fight to be the last one standing. The game also has a creative mode where you can build structures and create your own worlds. With regular updates and events, there’s always something new to do in Fortnite.

PUBG Mobile: PUBG Mobile is another popular battle royale game where players drop onto an island and fight to be the last one standing. The game has a variety of weapons and vehicles to use, as well as different modes to play in. PUBG Mobile also has regular updates and events to keep the gameplay fresh.

Minecraft: Minecraft is a sandbox game where you can build and explore worlds made of blocks. You can gather resources, craft items, and fight monsters in this endlessly replayable game. Minecraft also has a variety of different game modes,
including survival mode, creative mode, and multiplayer mode.

The Room: The Room is a puzzle game where you solve intricate mechanical puzzles to progress through the game. The game has beautiful graphics and a haunting atmosphere, making it a great game to play during the holiday season.

Monument Valley: Monument Valley is a puzzle game where you guide a character through Escher-like levels by manipulating the environment. The game has beautiful graphics and a calming soundtrack, making it a great game to play when you want to
relax.

Tetris: Tetris is a classic puzzle game where you rotate and place falling blocks to create lines and clear the board. With simple gameplay and endless replayability, Tetris is a great game to play during the holiday season.

Among Us: Among Us has exploded in popularity in recent months and for good reason. It’s a multiplayer game that tasks players with completing tasks on a spaceship while trying to figure out who the imposters are. The imposters are trying to sabotage the mission, and it’s up to the other players to figure out who they are and vote them off the ship. It’s a social, strategic game that’s great for parties or just playing with friends online.

Stardew Valley: Stardew Valley is a relaxing farming simulator that tasks you with turning an overgrown farm into a thriving agricultural business. You’ll need to plant and harvest crops, raise animals, and build relationships with the townspeople to succeed. It’s a great game for players who want a more laid-back experience and enjoy building and managing their own little slice of heaven.

Animal Crossing: Animal Crossing New Horizons is another relaxing game that puts you in charge of your own island paradise. You’ll need to build and decorate your home, catch fish and bugs, and interact with your animal neighbors to make your
island the best it can be. It's a great game for players who enjoy customization and building their own world.

The Room series: The Room series is a series of puzzle games that task you with solving intricate, intricate puzzles to progress. Each game in the series offers a  unique, immersive experience and will keep you hooked until the very end. If you
enjoy brain-teasers and challenging puzzles, these games are a must-play.

These are just a few of the many mobile games that you can play this holiday season. Whether you prefer puzzle games, strategy games, or action games, there’s a mobile game out there for you. So take a break from the holiday hustle and bustle and have some fun with these great mobile games. Loved this article? Check out
some amazing Christmas party ideas.

What is the best way to improve your ticketing system: ServiceNow vs Jira

The ticketing system is software that helps to categorize customer feedback and complaints in the proper order. Your customer support team will be able to manage and deal more effectively with the incidents by using the ticketing system software instead of dealing with email correspondence. Each system will provide you with different features which will help to speed up the process of bug fixing thus improving the overall functioning of your company. We will discuss the difference between the two most famous systems: ServiceNow vs Jira, their main features, and capability sets. 

ServiceNow vs Jira: which one to choose?

Let’s start with ServiceNow first. It is a cloud-based SaaS platform, which primarily focuses on the management, structuring, and automatization of incoming data. This ITSM software will assist you in the proper workflow organization of your business, precisely, its applications, such as:

  • data tracking – helps to collect and manage incoming data; 
  • enterprise integration – it can be integrated with existing systems to create a single workspace;
  • IoT (Internet of Things) – usage of data from external devices, collection in one place for more efficient business results;
  • case management – the software collects the communication between the client or other companies;
  • customer engagement portal – provide consumers with the reward system and make them relate more to your business in each service request;
  • all in one place – collect all applications and tools for business in one platform. 

The difference between ServiceNow from Jira begins with its primary purpose. While ServiceNow was created to optimize the workflow, Jira, in the beginning, was made to deal with bugs and then converted into a full ticketing system software. The applications or project types of the Jira platform include:

  • core – organization of all tasks in one place; 
  • software – is a workspace with ready-to-install tools such as Scrum, Kanban, and so on; 
  • service management – improvement of service experience by connecting DEV, IT Ops, and business teams, including the tracker of incidents and changes during operations. 

By combining those project types and adding new features you will build and customize quite an efficient working space. 

Which one to choose? Or should I combine them?

While both these programs can be used separately, you can greatly increase the efficiency of your enterprise by combining their functions. While ServiceNow is one of the best ITSM solutions for IT operations and big enterprises, Jira is one of the most-known business service management and bug-tracking tools for medium and small businesses.

You can integrate JIRA into ServiceNow and organize your business better than ever. While still being able to track down and solve different issues. The choice is yours, of course.

But you also should remember that it is highly recommended to choose a high-quality help desk data migration service. It will make your migration from the current software to the new one much smoother and prevent any important data from suddenly disappearing. Support for one and each stage of migration is also important – so you may want to pay attention to such services. 

Tech Review – HUION Inspiroy Giano digital tablet and pen

This is a first for me and is a very niche product but can appreciate it, it was not what I expected either and can see the use for such a product and it is ideal for those into art and kids. For me though not something I would use every day but it is fun to use and cross platform too so this can be used with your mobile phone a tablet mac and windows and of course a chromebook which  I tested it out on along with my phone, you do need a bigger screen though to get the most out of it, you could hook up to your smart tv too and keep the kids entertained.

This in short saves you on paper too and feels like writing on paper in fact there is several tips to pick from in the cleverly designed pen holder that does not require a battery which is excellent so no need to worry there which is something more traditional tablet users would not be use to.

The tablet is on the large side making it a nice space to get creative with it does have boundaries marked on each corner and will take time to get use to them, there is a mini display on the top left which is nice and you also have some buttons on the left below them which can be changed to suit your needs, there is hundreds of apps to pick from and basically any sketch app in the play store will work with this which is nice and makes it easier to use with no shortage of ideas.

The smart LCD screen on the upper left of the tablet indicates the status of Inspiroy Giano and digital pen such as the power, connectivity, and whether the press keys are pressed or not, allowing you to quickly check the information at a glance. A special icon (phone/Huion logo/moon) shows up at the center of the screen to reveal if the tablet is connected to a phone/computer or enters sleeping mode. In addition, a flashing exercise icon appears to remind you that it is time to get out of your seat after 2 hours of working with the pen tablet.

 

Sketch apps

Bluetooth 5.0 guarantees improved speed, greater range, and more stable data transmission compared with the old versions. Besides promising an easy connection between Inspiroy Giano and a computer, a Mac laptop, or an Android device, Bluetooth 5.0 frees you from the messy cables and keeps a tidy tabletop.

The build quality of the tablet too is excellent and makes for and ideal gift for the artist or kids and will keep them busy for hours on end.

Check the video review below for more.

BUY

Video Review

 

Mercku to Showcase Premium Mesh System M6s at CES 2023

Mercku, the Canadian smart home brand, today announces it will reveal details of the soon-to-launch M6s Wi-Fi mesh system, as well as Mercku Labs, a new B2B service helping brands to bring their connected devices visions to life, at CES 2023 in January.

The Mercku M6s is set to build on the innovation achieved in its previous M6a Plus system, featuring a high-performance combination of a premium router and two of the industry’s smallest Wi-Fi 6 nodes, forming the Wi-Fi backbone for homes of any size or configuration.

Mercku’s M6s Mesh System future-proofs next-generation Wi-Fi and smart home automation. The system intersects proprietary hardware and Mercku’s award-winning design with next-generation Wi-Fi 6 innovations, supporting smart homes with hundreds of devices and substantial bandwidth requirements. Discreet heat dissipation elements and soft fabric outer casing ensures maximum system performance and device longevity, blending elegant design with intuitive functionality.

Erik Ackner, President of Mercku Europe, comments, “CES is the flagship event for new technologies, making it the perfect stage to tease details of our latest launch, the M6s. We look forward to meeting customers and attendees in Las Vegas, and invite people to visit our stand to experience this incredible technology for themselves.”

Mercku will also showcase its new B2B service, Mercku Labs, which will support other companies on their journey to building successful mesh systems. Mercku Labs lets partner companies leverage Mercku’s extensive experience with Networking and IoT Product Design and Development to bring their product idea to market. The service allows operators from various industries to shorten the go-to-market time by accelerating the design and build process and developing custom integrations with mobile applications, cloud systems or the operator’s own solutions.

Erik adds, “Mercku Labs is the natural progression for us in realizing our goal of Building the Next Era of Connectivity. With our extensive technical knowledge and experience, we’re perfectly positioned to support other companies as they look to build their own connected visions.”

How to Properly Invest in Fintech

In recent years, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of people investing in Fintech companies. This is no surprise, as Fintech represents a huge opportunity for investors to make money while also helping to improve the financial industry. In this article, we will discuss some of the reasons why investors are so excited about Fintech. Finally, we will offer our advice on how best to invest in Fintech companies.

Wealth Management Is Important

One of the main reasons why investors are so excited about Fintech is that it can provide an incredibly efficient way to manage wealth. With the use of advanced algorithms, automated investment platforms, and other predictive tools, investors have far greater control over their investments than ever before. By taking advantage of these technologies, investors can make better decisions with less effort and less risk. In addition, when your wealth is managed by professionals, the potential for greater returns increases significantly. It is clear why this is so attractive to investors.

Security and Transparency Are Key

In addition to improving wealth management, Fintech companies also offer unparalleled security and transparency. Many investors have had their trust in financial institutions shaken by events such as the recent global financial crisis. With Fintech companies, investors can be confident that their money is safe, secure, and fully transparent. This provides peace of mind that is invaluable in the modern financial landscape.

How To Invest In Fintech

Investing in Fintech companies is not as simple as it might seem. After all, these companies are relatively new and their business models can be complex. It is therefore important to do your research and understand what you are getting into before investing any money.

Our advice is to start by looking at the company’s financial statements and business plans. This will give you an idea of their current situation and future prospects. You should also consider the management team, as well as their track record in similar sectors. Finally, it is important to ensure that the company has sufficient capital to execute its plans.

Once you have done your research, it is time to decide how much money you want to invest. If you are confident in the company’s prospects, then investing a significant amount of money could be a wise decision. However, it is also important to diversify your investments so that you are not putting all your eggs in one basket. When in doubt, it is best to consult with a financial advisor before investing.

 

In conclusion, Fintech represents a great opportunity for investors to make money while also helping to improve the financial industry. The potential for improved wealth management and greater security are just two of the compelling benefits that make Fintech so attractive. But as with any investment, it is important to do your research and understand what you are getting into before taking the plunge. With the right advice, investing in Fintech could be a great way to boost your portfolio. By taking our advice, you should be able to make the right decisions and capitalize on this exciting trend. We hope that this article has been useful in helping you understand the potential for investing in Fintech companies. 

Irish consortium led by ServBlock and Irish Manufacturing Research win EU funding to build Manufacturing Data Space

Blockchain and pharmaceutical compliance company ServBlock has received funding alongside Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR) to build a trusted data exchange system for outsourced pharmaceutical manufacturing. Wicklow based ServBlock leads a consortium that includes NEXA | EAM (Cork), Ingeniero Solutions (Dublin) Unison Process Solutions (Limerick) and Plant Quest (Waterford) as a pioneering test case for trusted data transfer in pharma supply chains.

The project is supported by the EU’s i4Trust program, which provides funding for innovative research and development projects. The funding will enable the consortium to bring together experts from various fields, including data science, manufacturing, and engineering.

Welcoming the funding announcement, Adrian Hovenden, IMR’s Industrial Solutions Architect said: “Irish Manufacturing Research is delighted to have worked with IMR Member, ServBlock, to successfully secure the i4Trust funding for MANU SPACE. Collaborating with IMR members to create impactful solutions for the Irish manufacturing industry such as this Data Space, is key to ensuring the continued growth and development of the sector. IMR are excited to participate in this consortium and facilitate improvements in patient outcomes through improvements to pharmaceutical manufacturing and supply chain.”

In pharmaceutical manufacturing 20% of executives in management cite disparate systems and data sources among key challenges in addressing top manufacturing objectives for life sciences companies. A dataspace is a way of bringing together data from different sources and making it accessible and usable for a variety of purposes, such as research, analysis, or decision-making.

Data spaces can be used in a variety of contexts, such as in business, science, or government. The manufacturing data space will bring together data from different factories, production lines, and supply chains, to gain insights into the efficiency and competitiveness of the manufacturing process.

In the pharmaceutical industry 60% of all manufacturing is outsourced, companies outsource business activities to external partners for a variety of reasons – cost, flexibility, time to market, and core competence. This outsourcing leads to an increased risk of non-compliance to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) procedures which in turn could be a risk to the brand reputation of the company. By utilising the Manufacturing data space pharmaceutical companies can ensure contract manufacturers adhere to the same integrity, compliance, and quality operations as in-house manufacturing.

John Ward, CEO and founder of ServBlock, said: – “We are excited to be a part of this important project and look forward to working with our partners to bring the manufacturing data space to life. Coming on the back of our recent collaboration with Microsoft, this opportunity will allow ServBlock to continue to accelerate growth while being at the forefront of the Data Space movement.”