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12:00 pm | December 14, 2024

Levoit LVAC-200 cordless vacuum: two-minute review

The Levoit LVAC-200 is a lightweight cordless vacuum that won't break the bank. I tested one out to see how it compares to the rest of the best vacuum cleaners, as well as the best cordless vacuums specifically.

This brand is better known for its air purifiers, but as an affordable alternative to high-end cordless vacuums, the LVAC-200 impresses. At only 6lbs, it's easy to maneuver no matter the configuration. There are three suction levels to choose from, and in my testing, I found these were enough to tackle most messes, including fine dust. The fact you'll need to unleash the battery-sapping max mode for carpets means it's perhaps better suited to homes with mostly hard floors and perhaps the occasional rug.

Admittedly, the LVAC-200 can have some trouble picking up larger debris, especially if you go over the debris too quickly, and it struggles to vacuum in reverse. However, it still offers solid performance for the price.

The battery lasts over 40 minutes on the lowest suction setting, and while that's not the longest runtime around, it's in line with what I'd expect from today's best cheap vacuums and will be plenty sufficient for most people's needs. That's the short version; read on for my full Levoit LVAC-200 Cordless Vacuum review.

Levoit LVAC-200 cordless vacuum, standing upright, next to supplied accessories, in reviewer's home — (Image credit: Future)

Levoit LVAC-200 review: price & availability

List price: $199.99 / £159.99 / AU$399
Launch date: November 2023
Availability: UK / US / AU

The Levoit LVAC-200 Cordless Vacuum is sold in a range of territories, including the US, UK, and Australia. It was first announced in November 2023 and sits in TechRadar's budget price bracket for manual vacuums.

It's priced at $199.99 in the US, and is sold direct at Levoit as well as a range of third party retailers. In the UK and Australia, it's only available at third-party retailers like Amazon, and costs around £160 or AU$400.

At time of writing, this is the only vacuum in Levoit's range. Based on the number of accessories that you get, the length of the battery life, and the quality of the build, I think this vacuum is well priced.

Value for money score: 4.5 out of 5

Levoit LVAC-200 specs

Levoit LVAC-200 cordless vacuum review: design

Super lightweight, and comes with two accessories
Can be used as a stick vacuum or a handheld
Three suction speeds

The Levoit LVAC-200 Cordless Vacuum is one of the lightest vacuums I've ever tested. At 6.17 lbs or 2.85kg, it is easy to maneuver this vacuum no matter if you're using it as a stick vacuum, a handheld vacuum, or by taking the vacuum head off and using the wand to clean in high places.

The stick vacuum itself is mostly white with black accents, and has a removable battery. In terms of size, it's 9.8 inches long, 7.7 inches wide, and 43.3 inches tall or 110 x 19.5 x 25 centimeters. Three LED lights are located on the front of the vacuum head. Inside that vacuum head is an anti-tangle brush. The wand is not bendable (as is the case with the best Shark vacuums on the market), but it can lie 180-degrees flat so you can vacuum underneath furniture with relative ease.

Levoit LVAC-200 cordless vacuum broken up into its component parts — (Image credit: Future)

Setting up the vacuum took no time at all. I connected the wand to the handheld part and then attached the vacuum head to the wand. The dustbin is 0.75L, and it's attached to the front of the vacuum. This was a smart design choice by Levoit as it allows the vacuum to stand upright on its own, and not fall over when the vacuum head is locked into place. A wall mount is provided if you'd prefer.

Levoit LVAC-200 cordless vacuum standing upright on its own — (Image credit: Future)

On top of the dustbin is a power button. In front of the power button is the suction speed button that lets you move between suction speeds – I, II, or III. If I needed to increase the power, I'd just push the button, and the vacuum would increase the suction. According to Levoit, the suction power is 70AW – that's likely the maximum power, although this isn't specified. (Here's more on how to tell how much suction a vacuum has).

Close up of handle and controls on Levoit LVAC-200 cordless vacuum — (Image credit: Future)

Thanks to a 5-stage filtration system, this vacuum is able to capture 99.9 percent of particles as small as 0.3 microns. The filter is washable.

The charger plugs into the side of the battery. Two accessories are provided: a crevice tool that also doubles as a brush tool, and a 2-in-1 pet tool. You'll have to store these accessories when not in use since this vacuum doesn't come with a base or has a built-in holder.

Design score: 4 out of 5

Levoit LVAC-200 vacuum review: performance

Cleans up fine materials perfectly on medium and max mode
Vacuums poorly in reverse no matter the floor type
Better on hard floor than on carpet

The Levoit LVAC-200 Cordless Vacuum is lightweight with a vacuum head that swivels with ease. It can be broken down into three configurations – as a cordless stick vacuum with the vacuum head, a vacuum with just the wand, and as a handheld vacuum. There are three different suction modes that are labeled in roman numerals – I, III, and III – with sound ratings of 78, 82, and 83 dB respectively.

I tested this vacuum in my house, which has three types of flooring (hardwood, laminate, and rugs). I also utilized the different accessories to clean my furniture and blinds.

My testing process began by vacuuming my entire house as I normally would. Originally, I felt like it did a good job vacuuming the hard floors in my house as well as the large rugs. There was some dirt and dried mud in my mud room that it picked up well, and hair in my bathroom that it cleaned away without the hair getting stuck in the brush. However, if the caked mud was larger in size, I had to vacuum over the pieces more slowly for the vacuum to suction it all up.

I am a big fan of bendable vacuum wands, and unfortunately, this Levoit LVAC-200 is not equipped with one. I was able to lean the vacuum completely down to 180 degrees so I could reach under my bed and couch for more thorough cleaning, but this required me to crouch down. The floorhead is equipped with LED lights to help illuminate dingy areas.

Levoit LVAC-200 cordless vacuum cleaning a rug — (Image credit: Future)

I should also note that this vacuum doesn't have any smart capabilities, which means it can't sense or notify you if the floor is dirty or clean. That's not surprising at this price point – mid-range models like the Shark Detect Pro can sense if they're on carpet or hard floor, and boost or lower suction in response, while very high-end models like the Dyson V15 Detect or Gen5detect can adjust suction specifically based on what needs sucking up on any particular patch of floor. Here, you'll have to change the suction mode manually.

Close up of floorhead and accessories for Levoit LVAC-200 cordless vacuum — (Image credit: Future)

I also tested out the two supplied detail tools. I used the crevice tool to clean tight spaces around furniture and the corners of the wall. The crevice tool doubles as a brush tool, and I used that and the middle suction setting to clean my blinds, which were very dusty. The results were great.

Levoit LVAC-200 cordless vacuum in handheld mode, cleaning in the corner of a room — (Image credit: Future)

I should also note that I was surprised by how well the 2-in-1 pet tool managed to pull up hair from my couch. Granted, I had to put the handheld vacuum on the highest suction setting and brush the couch as the vacuum suctioned, but it did better than most vacuums I have tested – and impressively well for a budget model.

Levoit LVAC-200 cordless vacuum in handheld mode, being used to clean reviewer's sofa — (Image credit: Future)

Although it appeared like the vacuum did a good job cleaning my floors, I wanted to do more thorough tests with the Levoit LVAC-200 Cordless Vacuum. To do that, I poured cereal, dried tea, and flour on my hard floors and on one of my rugs and then vacuumed over these items on the lowest suction setting.

No matter the flooring, it was clear that this vacuum is not equipped to vacuum in reverse, especially when it came to larger debris like cereal. Occasionally the cereal particles got stuck behind the wheels of the vacuum, and generally I noticed that the vacuum didn't pick up the dried tea or the flour as well when vacuuming in reverse as it did when vacuuming forward.

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Levoit LVAC-200 picking up fine debris on hard floor — (Image credit: Future)

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Levoit LVAC-200 picking up cereal on hard floor — (Image credit: Future)

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When I tested the vacuum on my historic hardwood and laminate floorings, I found it did a good job suctioning dried tea while set on the lowest suction setting and performed fairly well in cleaning up the flour, leaving only a slight sheen of flour on the floor. In my opinion, it's best to use the middle or high suction level when vacuuming fine materials on hard floors just to pick everything up in one go.

What surprised me the most was how much difficulty the vacuum had with picking up cereal on hard floors. When I pushed the vacuum head forward, larger pieces of the cereal would get pushed ahead of the vacuum head. Just like what occurred with large pieces of caked mud, I had to slowly vacuum over the cereal for the vacuum to suction the cereal up.

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Levoit LVAC-200 picking up flour on a rug — (Image credit: Future)

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When I ran these same tests on my rugs, the results were slightly different. The Levoit vacuum picked up cereal way better on carpet than it did on hard floors. Unfortunately, when I vacuumed over the flour and the dried tea, I had to do a few passes to clean these fine materials.

Again, using higher suction settings, such as the medium or high setting, requires only one or two passes on rugs. If you want to use this vacuum on carpet, you'll need to use the higher suction settings (which will sap battery fairly quickly). On balance, I don't think this is the best vacuum choice if your home has a lot of carpet.

Emptying the bin on the Levoit LVAC-200 cordless vacuum — (Image credit: Future)

All the dust and debris are contained in a dustbin on the front of this cordless vacuum. It is very easy to dump the bin. I just had to remove the handheld portion of the vacuum from the wand, take it to a trash can, press a latch, and the dust and debris went straight into the trash can.

Beyond that, I didn't have to do much maintenance. The brushroll does a good job of preventing the tangling of hair, string, or debris. However, it's simple to remove it from the vacuum head and wash it separately if required. The filters are also washable and should be washed once a month, then replaced every three months.

Performance score: 3.5 out of 5

Levoit LVAC-200 cordless vacuum review: battery life

16 mins on max mode, 25 mins on medium and 42 on min mode
Less than the quoted 50 minutes, but enough for most people
It takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes to fully recharge

According to Levoit, the LVAC-200 Cordless Vacuum has a battery life of 30-50 minutes. However, when I ran the vacuum on the lowest suction setting, it only lasted about 42 minutes. On the medium suction setting I managed 25 minutes of cleaning. In maximum mode, I only got about 16 minutes of battery life (probably long enough to clean less than 900 square feet in a single go).

In my opinion, the vacuum has a decent battery life considering how much it costs. It was more than enough time for me to clean my home – in fact, I could clean my house almost three times over in 42 minutes. If you have a much larger home, pricier models will give you longer – up to a full hour on a single charge. The fact that the battery is removable means you could also buy a backup battery and hot-swap them to eke out a longer cleaning time.

What is most impressive is that the LVAC-200 took about 2 hours and 40 minutes for the battery to fully recharge. This is much faster than the 4-5-hour estimate that Levoit provides on its website.

Battery life score: 4 out of 5

Should you buy the Levoit LVAC-200 cordless vacuum?

Buy it if...

You're on a budget
The main selling point here is really how affordable this vacuum is. You're getting solid performance, battery life and build quality for the price.

You have mostly hard floors
In my tests I found the LVAC-200 did a good job of clearing debris on hard floor, and can also handle rugs with no issues.

You need a vacuum that can handle a variety of jobs around the house
The Levoit LVAC-200 has three configurations and comes with two accessories. Essentially, you can vacuum hard floors and rugs with ease, as well as clean furniture, blinds, baseboards, and in tight spaces. View Deal

Don't buy it if...

Your home is full of carpets
This vacuum is better suited to homes with hard floors and rugs. For a proper clean on carpet, you'll need to use the maximum suction mode, which will run down the battery quickly. If you have a number of rooms with carpets, you'll be better with a more powerful model.

You want or need to vacuum efficiently, in a hurry
There are no automation features here, you'll have to vacuum slowly to pick up large debris, and this model doesn't vacuum very well in reverse. All that can extend your cleaning times.

You have lots of furniture to clean around
Although the floorhead pivots well, this vacuum doesn't have the outright maneuverability of a Dyson model, nor does the wand bend forwards to easy under-furniture cleaning as is possible with many Shark vacs.

How I tested the Levoit LVAC-200

I used the Levoit LVAC-200 as my main vacuum for a couple of weeks, using it to clean my apartment – which has a mixture of hardwood, laminate, and rugs. During this time, I got a feel for how well designed it is, how easy to maneuver, and whether there are any usability issues.

To get a more objective idea of this vacuum's suction powers, I ran TechRadar's standard tests, on both hard floor and soft rugs. These tests included vacuuming cereal, flour, and dried tea forwards and in reverse to determine the vacuum's suction capability. I also tested the sound rating and battery life to see if it matched up with the specs provided by the brand.

Read more about how we test vacuum cleaners.

First reviewed November 2024

Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 photo printer review

8:24 pm | December 13, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro | Comments: Off

Specs

Type: color inkjet photo printer

Functions: Print only

Connectivity: Ethernet, USB, Wi-Fi

Data storage slots: none

Print speed: A2 color 3min 40sec

Max paper size: A2, 17” x 22"

Print quality: 2,400 x 1,200 dpi

Memory: 1GB

Apple AirPrint: yes

Consumables included: 12 x 80ml cartridges

Dimensions/Weight: 723 x 435 x 285 mm (WxDxH)/71.4lb/32.4kg

The Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 is a 17-inch inkjet that will interest both professional studios and amateur photographers wanting high quality wide-format prints from an accessible desktop design. Costing $1,300 in the US and £1,500 in the UK, it’s Canon’s new flagship photo printer and it improves on the already impressive Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 with reformulated pigment inks promising superior prints that’ll last 200 years.

I've reviewed almost all the best small business printers, but this one is a little different. As well as using twelve separate ink cartridges to create colorful prints up to 17 x 22 inches, its unique Air Feed system is able to hold large sheets of paper in place while precision spraying ink through 18,432 nozzles. Impressive. But can it justify the high running cost of a cartridge-based printer?

Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100: Design and build

Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 during our review — (Image credit: Canon)

This lozenge-shaped 17-inch desktop printer looks pretty compact with its flaps folded, but it’s a little larger than its closest 17-inch competitor, the Epson SureColor P900 in all dimensions and it weighs a whopping 71 pounds. If you want to go larger than A2, you’ll need a freestanding roll printer like the 24-inch HP DesignJet Studio 24. The twelve individual inks take up some room, while the replaceable printhead is also quite a handful. With the front and rear flaps extended, the depth increases from 43cm to 115cm so it’ll require some room while in use. There are two paper paths, with the top tray taking anything from A5 to A2 sheets and the fatter rear tray able to take thicker paper from A4 to A2 size.

The textured black plastic of the bodywork gives the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 a rugged look, while the various plastic flaps also feel less flimsy than your average printer. And unlike most inkjets, the printhead is readily replaceable which suggests a machine that is built to last. The large power and cancel buttons are easy to find and the controls are responsive, but it’s a pity there’s no touchscreen interface. The old school three-inch LCD looks under spec on a machine costing over a grand. There’s no memory card slot or USB Host port either. Just the usual USB type B and Ethernet ports at the rear. The wireless connectivity, however, has been improved from the single-band wi-fi of the old model to auto-switching dual-band (2.4GHz/5GHz).

Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100: Features & specifications

As Canon’s top-of-the-line photo printer, the imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 has an impressive specification and features not one, but two paper input trays capable of handling 17” x 25” (A2) paper. The top tray can take small formats like 6” x 6” papers or up to 150 sheets of plain paper. The manual tray at the rear with its flatter paper path can handle heavier paper and card up to 400g/m2, but only one sheet at a time. It can also print banners up to 129 inches (3.27 meters) long. There are twelve separate LUCIA PRO II inks so you can expect a very wide color gamut, while the Air Feed feature ensures your paper doesn’t slip while the ink is applied.

The maximum print resolution is given as 2,400 x 1,200 dpi (dots per inch), which is actually lower than that of the entry-level Canon PIXMA G650. The imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 achieves its superior image quality because it has more nozzles firing finer ink droplets so those dots are more accurate. While the cheap Canon squirts six inks through 2,304 nozzles, our PRO-1100 has twelve inks and 18,432 nozzles. And if any of those nozzles become blocked, it’s picked up by sensors and substitute nozzles step in. It's the mark of one of the best photo printers around.

It has 1GB of inbuilt memory, which is more than the average photo printer, and it supports Windows, Mac OS and Chrome OS. What the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 cannot do is accommodate a roll of paper and only one of its two input trays can only hold multiple sheets of paper. That’s a maximum of 150 sheets of thin plain paper. The given speed of six minutes to print a sheet of A2 is also rather slow, but in all other respects, its a strong spec sheet.

Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100: Setup and operation

The quick start guide for the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 is just a single page, because its really just a case of plugging in, turning on and following the on-screen prompts to complete the setup. The twelve ink cartridges slot in smoothly, but with this inkjet, you also have to install the printhead. It’s a similarly smooth operation with instructions shown on the display. Once in place, you have the opportunity to print a test sheet to ensure the inkjets are aligned and firing. If you download the accompanying iOS/Android app called Canon PRINT, you can use your phone to get the printer onto your wi-fi network. The only thing that would have made the setup process easier is a touchscreen.

Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100: Performance

The Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 prints slowly, but reliably and exceedingly well, which is the main thing. While this successor to the old Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 sees no improvement in print speed, the reformulated inks bring a real improvement in print quality, especially with difficult dark images and back and white photos.

I printed a wide range of test cards and photos on an equally wide range of paper types and was impressed every time. The detail resolution is consistently sharp, notably with A2, and perhaps that’s due to the Air Feed system holding the ungainly sheets of paper in its steady suction grip. The very wide color gamut and particularly realistic shading of images is certainly down to the twelve individual ink cartridges. With eleven pigments and one chroma optimizer to call on, the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 has an advantage over its 17-inch rival, the Epson SureColor P900 with its paltry ten inks.

On high gloss photo paper, the colours pop in exactly the way you want your holiday snaps to do when you have them professionally produced. And these prints are probably more durable thanks to the industry-leading light and abrasion resistance of Canon’s pigment inks. Switching to matt photo paper or Canon’s tactile rough art paper and you can better appreciate the remarkable deepness of the black inks. And with both a photo black and a matte black the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 is particularly good at printing monochrome photographs.

Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100: Consumables

As this is not one of Canon’s MegaTank printers, there are no refillable ink reservoirs and you’re locked into buying Canon’s LUCIA PRO II cartridges, which each cost around $60 for 80ml. And by the way, you’re going to need twelve of them. At least you can replace the cartridges individually as they run out and they are no more expensive than the old LUCIA PRO cartridges. There are actually eleven pigment inks and one chroma optimizer, which costs very slightly less for the same 80ml. The improved pigment inks claim to have deeper blacks, richer blues and the ability to withstand light damage for 200 years. I’ll have to get back to you on the light damage, but I agree that the black and blue performance is especially strong. Its prints also passed our smudge and scratch tests easily, which makes the longevity claims seem plausible.

Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100: Maintenance

Being an inkjet, there’s a possibility of the printhead clogging, or drying out when left unused for long periods. It has inbuilt sensors to detect blockages, but you may need to run one or more cleaning cycles if necessary. This could be as easy as ordering a maintenance routine via the Canon app on your smartphone. The chroma optimizer cartridge is likely to need replacing before the pigment inks, so watch out for that. You can also replace the whole PF-10 printhead very easily, but with the cost for a new one being US$414 or £550, you’d probably rather not. You may have noticed that the dollar/pound figures I have quoted in this review are not currency conversions, they’re the current prices on the Canon US and Canon UK websites, which means Brits are expected to pay thirty percent more for the exact same printer. Ouch.

Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100: Final verdict

If you need studio quality prints on large paper formats, the uncompromising Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 will not disappoint. It’s a solid and evolved design that puts image quality first. The absence of a touchscreen interface or an input drawer capable of holding a stack of blank paper are minor inconveniences compared to the advantage of having twelve separate ink cartridges or an air feed system for holding the paper steady while printing. The print speed is rather slow, but the results are worth waiting for. Photos look realistic thanks to a very wide color gamut and superb detail resolution, while black and white photos really benefit from the inclusion of two types of black ink. It handles large sheets of paper effortlessly, including banners up to 129 inches long. Of course the consumables cost has to be a consideration, especially when there are twelve cartridges to replace, but the excellent LUCIA PRO II inks are no more expensive than other inks in this category.

For more devices, we reviewed the best home printers around.

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McAfee Plus review

8:05 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro Security | Comments: Off

Our series on identity theft protection apps will evaluate the features, pricing options, competition, and also the overall value of using each app. However, these are not full hands-on reviews since evaluating identity theft protection apps is almost impossible. It would require several months of testing, purposefully hacking accounts to see if the protection app works, handing over personally identifiable information, performing multiple credit checks, and risking exposure of the reviewer’s personally identifiable information.

McAfee, a leading cybersecurity company, has a rich history dating back to the early days of personal computing being founded in 1987 by a Santa Clara computer programmer that the company is named after. Throughout its history, including being the first to have an antivirus software, McAfee has been at the forefront of the cybersecurity industry, adapting to evolving threats and technologies. Its focus on protecting individuals and organizations from cyberattacks has made it a trusted name in the field.

McAfee Plus is designed to provide comprehensive protection for your digital life, helping you stay safe online and avoid the risks associated with cyber threats. It offers a range of features to safeguard your digital life, including antivirus and malware protection, real-time threat prevention, and firewall protection. Overall, McAfee Plus is a robust security solution that can help you stay safe online and protect your valuable data.

McAfee Plus review — (Image credit: McAfee)

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McAfee Plus: Plans and pricing

McAfee Plus pricing, like most of the services in this space, will vary depending on the specific plan you choose, and any ongoing promotions or discounts which can help make this more affordable. Here's a general breakdown of the different plans on offer, which can be broken down by Individual plans and Family plans.

McAfee Plus Individual Core Protection Plan is a comprehensive security software package tailored to safeguard your personal computer against diverse online threats. It encompasses an array of features, including antivirus protection to combat viruses, malware, and malicious software, a firewall to thwart unauthorized access, and web protection to block websites hosting malicious content. To further enhance security, McAfee Plus offers a VPN that encrypts internet traffic, making it harder for hackers to intercept, a password manager to create and organize strong passwords, and identity theft protection that monitors personal information for signs of compromise and promptly alerts you of suspicious activity. Notably, the annual subscription is currently available at a discounted price of $49.99 annually, significantly lower than the listed price of $149.99 annually.

The upgraded McAfee Plus Advanced plan offers heightened security features for an individual for an annual fee of $89.99, discounted from the original price of $199.99 per year. This plan builds upon the features of the prior plan by incorporating comprehensive identity theft coverage up to $1 million. Additionally, it provides identity restoration support, lost wallet protection, bank and credit card transaction monitoring, 1-bureau credit monitoring with monthly score updates, and a security freeze option to prevent unauthorized account openings.

At the pinnacle of McAfee's offerings stands the McAfee Plus Ultimate plan, currently available at a discounted annual rate of $199.99 annually (originally priced at $279.99 annually). This comprehensive plan encompasses the features of both lower-tier plans, adding bank account takeover monitoring, payday loan monitoring, up to $25K ransomware coverage, investment monitoring, and loan transaction monitoring. For enhanced ease of use, the top-tier plan includes a McAfee Assist protection setup session.

McAfee Plus Family Plans offers coverage for two adults and their children with varying feature sets and pricing. Starting at $69.99 annually, the Premium Plan provides basic protection. The mid-tier plan costs $119.99 annually and offers more features. For the most comprehensive coverage, the top plan is available at $249.99 annually.

For those looking for a more affordable solution, there is still the McAfee Basic that starts at a more than affordable $29.99 for a year of antivirus on a single device, VPN, identity monitoring, and a McAfee Protection Score, which is a personalized online safety assessment.

As pricing, and promotional offers change over time, be sure to check the McAfee Plus website for the latest pricing prior to purchase.

McAfee Plus: Features

Experience peace of mind knowing that your entire family is protected online with McAfee+ Family plans. Every member of your family will have access to their own identity monitoring, secure VPN, and unlimited device security. Adult family members are eligible for up to $2 million in identity theft coverage, with a maximum of $4 million per family. Additionally, there is assistance in removing personal information from potentially risky websites.

For every member of your family, there is 24/7 monitoring of your personal information. If something requires your attention, you'll receive alerts promptly. This monitoring helps safeguard your privacy and sensitive data, providing peace of mind knowing that you're protected.

In addition, there is access to a VPN (Virtual Private Network) that enables you to bank, shop, and browse online securely from anywhere. The VPN creates an encrypted connection between your device and the internet, ensuring that your online activities remain private and shielded from potential threats.

Drawing from McAfee’s strength, there’s also the award-winning antivirus security for all your devices, ensuring comprehensive protection against viruses, malware, and other cyber threats. This advanced security solution employs real-time scanning, threat detection, and automatic updates to keep your devices safe from harm.

Furthermore, there is access to the McAfee Protection Score, a unique feature that provides personalized guidance on steps you can take to make staying safer online even easier. The Protection Score assesses your online behavior, security settings, and device status, and provides tailored recommendations to help improve your overall security posture.

With these comprehensive features, users rest assured that their family's personal information, online activities, and devices are guarded against potential risks, allowing them to enjoy a secure and protected digital experience.

Each adult in a family can receive up to $2 million in identity theft coverage, resulting in a maximum of $4 million per family. This comprehensive protection includes the assistance of licensed restoration experts who are readily available to guide you through any unexpected identity theft situations. Additionally, vigilant monitoring of credit reports and financial transactions is provided to detect any unusual activities. Should anything suspicious arise, there is prompt notification.

For families with children, robust parental controls are provided, empowering parents to supervise their kids' online activities, ensuring their safety and well-being in the digital world. The goal is to provide parents with peace of mind, knowing that their personal and financial information is safeguarded with the family protected from the devastating consequences of identity theft.

McAfee Plus: The competition

McAfee Plus competes with several other reputable security suites on the market. Here's a comparison of McAfee Plus to some of its main competitors.

A main competitor is Norton 360, a comprehensive security suite that offers a wide range of features. It includes robust antivirus and anti-malware protection, a reliable firewall, a secure VPN for online privacy, a convenient password manager, parental controls to safeguard your family, and PC tune-up tools to optimize your system's performance.

While Norton 360 is highly regarded for its exceptional virus protection and comprehensive feature set, it can sometimes be resource-intensive, potentially impacting system performance. Additionally, some advanced features may require additional subscriptions.

Another option is Bitdefender Total Security, a comprehensive security suite that offers a range of essential features. It provides robust antivirus and anti-malware protection, a reliable firewall, a secure VPN for online privacy, a convenient password manager, parental controls to safeguard your family, and webcam protection to prevent unauthorized access.

One of the standout features of Bitdefender Total Security is its lightweight and fast performance, ensuring minimal impact on system resources. It also offers strong malware protection and is generally considered good value for the price. However, some users may find the interface less intuitive compared to other security suites, and it may have fewer additional features compared to some competitors.

Trend Micro Maximum Security is a comprehensive security suite that offers a range of essential features. It provides robust antivirus and anti-malware protection, a reliable firewall, a secure VPN for online privacy, a convenient password manager, parental controls to safeguard your family, and PC optimization tools to improve system performance.

One of the standout features of Trend Micro Maximum Security is its strong malware protection and comprehensive feature set, offering a wide range of security tools. It is also generally considered good value for the price. However, some users may find the interface less intuitive compared to other security suites, and it can be resource-intensive, potentially impacting system performance.

When choosing a security suite, it's important to consider multiple features. We suggest to focus on the following factors:

Malware Protection: While all of the mentioned suites offer excellent malware protection, it's recommended to research independent lab tests to compare their performance in detail.

Features: Identify the specific features that are important to you, such as a VPN for online privacy, a password manager for secure credential management, or parental controls to protect your family.

Performance: Some security suites may have a heavier impact on your system's performance than others. Consider how the suite will affect your computer's speed and responsiveness.

Price: Compare the pricing of different plans to find the best value for your needs. Consider the cost of the initial purchase as well as any recurring subscription fees.

Ease of Use: Evaluate how user-friendly the interface is and how easy it is to manage the suite's features. A simple and intuitive interface can make it easier to use and troubleshoot any issues.

While all of the mentioned suites offer excellent malware protection, it's recommended to fully assess your needs, and to read reviews before making a final decision.

McAfee Plus: Support

Need help with McAfee? McAfee offers various support options for its Plus customers. Explore the Support Center to find answers, troubleshooting tips, and articles on common issues. Join the Community to connect with other McAfee users and experts for advice and support. Search the Knowledge Base to access a wealth of information about McAfee products and features.

In addition to the self-help options available online, McAfee also offers direct support for customers who prefer to speak with a representative. This support option is available by calling the McAfee customer support number, which can be found on the McAfee website or in the documentation that came with your McAfee product. When you call, you will be connected with a customer support representative who can assist you with your issue. The representative will be able to troubleshoot common problems, provide technical support, and answer any questions you may have about your McAfee product.

Experience real-time support by initiating a chat with a knowledgeable McAfee agent. Simply click on the chat icon, located conveniently on the website, and you can connect to an agent in no time. There is access to instant answers, guidance, and support through the live chat feature, available 24/7 for your convenience.

For more in-depth assistance, another option is to reach out via email by submitting a support ticket. To help the McAfee Plus team address your issue efficiently, be sure to provide as much detailed information as you can. It is a good idea to include any error messages you've encountered, relevant screenshots, and a step-by-step description of any troubleshooting actions that have been already tried. The more context and specifics that are shared, the better the support team can understand the problem to supply a solution.

Rich media content is offered by exploring the tutorial videos for comprehensive step-by-step guidance on everything from basic setup to leveraging advanced features. These guides teach users how to optimize protection, resolve common issues, and stay ahead of emerging threats.

Finally, users can join the McAfee community through the social media channels. This allows folks to connect with fellow users, receive expert advice, share useful tips, and keep up-to-date on the latest security news and best practices.

McAfee Plus: Final verdict

McAfee Plus is a comprehensive security solution designed to safeguard your digital life from a wide range of online threats. At its core, it features robust antivirus protection that shields your system from viruses, worms, and other malicious programs. The advanced antimalware engine effectively detects and eliminates malware, including spyware, adware, and ransomware, ensuring your devices remain free of unwanted intruders.

Real-time threat prevention is another crucial component of McAfee Plus. It continuously monitors your system for suspicious activities and automatically blocks potential threats before they can cause harm. This proactive approach helps prevent infections and minimizes the risk of data breaches or unauthorized access to your personal information.

McAfee Plus also provides a robust firewall that acts as a barrier between your device and the internet. It analyzes incoming and outgoing network traffic, blocking unauthorized connections and preventing malicious software from infiltrating your system. This layer of defense helps protect against cyberattacks, such as phishing attempts and unauthorized remote access.

In addition to these core security features, McAfee Plus includes a host of other tools to enhance your online safety. It offers secure browsing, which warns you about potentially dangerous websites and blocks malicious downloads. The identity protection feature monitors your personal information online and alerts you to any suspicious activity, such as attempts to steal your passwords or credit card numbers.

Parental controls allow you to manage your children's online activities, ensuring their safety when browsing the internet. You can set limits on screen time, block inappropriate content, and monitor their online interactions.

With McAfee Plus, you can rest assured that your devices and personal data are protected against a wide range of online threats. Its combination of advanced security features and user-friendly interface makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a comprehensive and reliable security solution.

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Astrill Business VPN

6:15 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro Software & Services | Comments: Off

Features

Astrill has great leak protection options with the kill switch being the standard offering among the safer business VPN offerings. However, they go a step further by offering a feature called App Guard that lets you choose applications to block if the VPN gets disconnected. This app functions across all protocols Astrill offers, except OpenWeb. You can also use the leak test tool on the company’s website to test out leaks. Furthermore, you get protection against IPv6, DNS, and WebRT leaks.

Regarding traffic routing, Astrill offers a “Smart Mode” that tunnels all international traffic through the VPN, while allowing local traffic to go through the regular network, which is great if you’re in restrictive jurisdictions. You also have the option to filter websites, i.e. decide manually which sites go through VPN and which will circumvent it, with the feature being available only on desktops and routers. You can also extend the filtering to apps, as mentioned earlier. To round off traffic routing, you also get a VPN-sharing option, which enables you to share your VPN connection with other devices in the network, without the need to install the VPN to each device.

Multi-hop is another great feature Astrill offers, which is not common among competitors. In essence, it combines up to three servers to tunnel your traffic through. This enhances security, but with Astrill it flows only through VIP servers (you have to pay for more than 100GB of traffic). If you want to scan your ports, perform port forwarding, or adjust additional proxy settings, you can do all of this to further enhance your security.

If you opt to use the OpenWeb protocol, you will also have the ad-blocking capabilities offered by Astrill.

The Astrill VPN app is functional and includes a wide array of features, but its user interface isn't the most intuitive. The design is quite small and lacks visual appeal, indicating that the app could benefit from a modern update to enhance usability and aesthetics.

In terms of platform compatibility, Astrill VPN supports a variety of operating systems and devices. These include Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, as well as ASUS, Tomato, and DD-WRT-capable routers. This ensures broad accessibility, making it a versatile solution for businesses and individuals using different devices or network setups.

Pricing & Plans

Astrill Business VPN pricing — (Image credit: Astrill)

If you’re a smaller business operating on a tighter budget, then you will not be too happy about the pricing plans. Namely, if you want to pay on a monthly basis and not commit to the services for longer than a month, then you will be paying $9 per account per month, with a minimum number of 10 accounts. Although more expensive than some competitors, Astrill justifies its cost with premium features like multi-device support, unlimited bandwidth, and customizable connection protocols.

You also get access to the Astrill app across all devices. Companies that need to scale their VPN access or require advanced security options may find the pricing worthwhile for the added value and flexibility. Astrill also offers dedicated support for its business customers, providing expert help for VPN setup, management, and troubleshooting, ensuring that companies can get the most out of their subscription. You can count on discounts if you need more than 20 accounts, with a maximum discount for 200 accounts, where you would pay $7.92 per account, per month.

All plans come with 100GB of free data on their VIP servers, but each additional 100GB will cost you an extra $10.

Performance

Astrill is consistently rated for its excellent speed, which is crucial for businesses that rely on data-heavy tasks like video conferencing, large file transfers, or accessing cloud-based applications. Even with strong encryption protocols, Astrill VPN manages to deliver fast connections across its global server network.

Speed tests on a Windows PC using the WireGuard protocol across a few Astrill VPN server locations revealed impressive results. The fastest speeds were achieved when connected to a local server, but performance remained solid even on distant servers. Websites loaded almost instantly, and streaming HD videos ran smoothly with no buffering issues, demonstrating Astrill's ability to maintain high-speed connections across its global network. You can also check out the company’s site for the speed results across each server; you can find the results here.

Privacy & Security

When it comes to security and privacy, Astrill VPN, like many other providers, promises a strict no-logging policy. Astrill is based in Seychelles, a location outside the 5, 9, and 14 Eyes intelligence-sharing alliances, which adds credibility to its privacy stance. While Astrill claims to collect minimal data, it gathers more than competitors. The information collected includes connection times, original IP address, device type, and app version, although Astrill states this data is erased once the user disconnects from the VPN.

However, the collection of real IP addresses alongside timestamps is concerning, as it could potentially be used to link online activity back to a user. Additionally, Astrill tracks bandwidth usage and logs details of the last 20 connection records, including connection times, duration, origin country, device type, and app version. While some of this information is standard for troubleshooting, it exceeds what many would consider strictly necessary for user privacy.

In terms of encryption, the industry standard AES-256 encryption is present and provides more than enough protection in that regard.

Alternatives

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly and complex ZTNA-oriented offer, then NordLayer is a great alternative. It offers much more in terms of complex protection (ad blocking, phishing protection, no-logging, etc.). The application itself is more user-friendly and speeds are competitive, with pricing being better in the Light plan, but more expensive if you move up the ladder.

ProtonVPN is another great alternative to Astrill, as the offering also includes double-hop and Secure Core, a solution that can add an additional layer of protection. Moreover, you get P2P file sharing, up to 10 simultaneous device connections, and vital security features such as a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and built-in Tor support for enhanced privacy. In terms of pricing, it is comparable to Astrill but offers a wider network of servers and additional premium features.

Final Verdict

Astrill Business VPN is a powerful and flexible solution for companies that need a high level of security and speed in their VPN connections. While it comes with a higher price tag, the features and performance it offers make it a strong contender for businesses with advanced security needs or those operating in high-risk environments. Its customizable protocols, excellent speed, and strong encryption make it a particularly good fit for businesses in industries that handle sensitive data or require high-performance networking.

It is well worth considering Astrill as a potential solution if the primary characteristic you need is speed, and don’t mind paying a bit extra and not getting the premium features that some competitors offer. Overall, Astrill is a solid choice, but there are better offers in the market.

We've listed the best business VPNs and the best VPNs with antivirus

OpenVPN Business VPN

5:46 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro Software & Services | Comments: Off

Features

For businesses looking for a cloud-delivered service that will help them connect private networks, devices, and servers, there is the CloudConnexa offer on OpenVPN. CloudConnexa offers a cloud-based VPN service tailored to make secure networking simpler for businesses. It enables secure access to applications, private networks, remote workforces, and IoT devices without the need for complicated hardware or the management of server software, circumventing the issue of complex configuration.

Standout features include ZTNA for enhanced security, a full-mesh network that allows seamless connectivity between all users and resources, and Cyber Shield, which protects against malicious content by blocking potential threats before they reach your network.

The other feature of OpenVPN is its Access Server, a self-hosted secure access solution. This will of course provide more control over the network and the underlying resources, but will require more technical knowledge. Access Server can be installed:

As a software package on Linux servers Ubuntu LTS, Redhat, Debian, Amazon Linux
As cloud image on AWS, Digital Ocean, Azure, GCP, Oracle
As a virtual appliance on VMware ESX or Microsoft HyperV

Once set up, you can offer the connection through various VPN clients to devices from all operating systems, desktop, or mobile. The user authentication process is highly versatile, offering a built-in system with web-based management or integration with external authentication methods such as PAM, LDAP, RADIUS, or SAML. For advanced authentication needs, you can even implement custom programming with Python.

You can create access control rules to specify user or group access to specific IP addresses and subnets, and even determine which devices can make direct VPN client connections. For routing options, Access Server provides full-tunnel and split-tunnel redirection, giving you the flexibility to route all internet traffic through the VPN or only specific traffic, based on your security and bandwidth requirements.

All of the above only scratches the surface of the complex and granular configurations you can make using OpenVPN.

Pricing & Plans

OpenVPN Business VPN — (Image credit: OpenVPN)

If you’re unsure what OpenVPN is all about, or if you simply want to take it for a test run, there is a Free plan that you can use to set up three connections. However, if you’re looking to make a self-hosted solution, then the number of connections is two for the free plan. The next plan is called Growth, costing $14 a month per connection; you can get a discount if you opt for annual billing and then the price per connection is $11. The last plan Enterprise, for over 500 connections will require you to reach out to get a quote.

It is important to note that there are different features if you opt for the self-hosted solution vs CloudConnexa. With the self-hosted option, you’ll have comprehensive support for both IPv4 and IPv6 connectivity, advanced security settings like FIPS compliance, and multiple authentication options including SAML, LDAP, and RADIUS. This option provides you with detailed access logs, robust routing features like application-based domain routing, and the ability to handle overlapping IPs, making it highly suitable for businesses needing maximum customization and control.

CloudConnexa, on the other hand, still gets core features like IPv4 support, basic routing capabilities, and standard authentication methods. However, some advanced features, such as full IPv6 support, DNS logs, and certain location control policies, are still in development. CloudConnexa is ideal if you want a simpler, managed solution that still covers essential networking and security needs but doesn’t require the infrastructure management responsibilities of a self-hosted setup.

Performance

OpenVPN prides itself on its strong security features, however, it falters when it comes to speed. Some of it lies in the complex server-side configuration options available, and other reasons are due to the protocol itself being a bit slower compared to the competition. WireGuard for example is on average over 20% faster, while still utilizing complex cryptography for security purposes.

In conclusion, if speed is the most important factor, then OpenVPN may not be the best choice, however, we would recommend trying out the free version to test out the features and speed before deciding whether it is for you. We’re not trying to say that it’s the slowest protocol or that it’s unusable, just that it’s slower compared to other solutions on the market.

Privacy & Security

Security is one of OpenVPN’s greatest strengths. Kicking things off with powerful AES-256 and Blowfish encryption. Additionally, it offers fully automated VPN certificate provisioning and management. For businesses that want to have full control over their public key infrastructure (PKI), they can do so using external PKI systems. VPN tunnels are secured with TSL authentication, credentials, certificates, and an optional MAC address lock.

Multi-factor authentication is supported in various forms, with TOTP MFA built-in, along with the other external authentication methods mentioned earlier. However, if you have services like Duo Security or LastPass, you can add them using post-authentication plugins. Furthermore, there is support for Perfect Forward Secrecy (PFS), which means that even if an encryption key is compromised, it won't decrypt past communications.

Alternatives

A potential alternative for more tech-savvy users is Radmin VPN, which similar to OpenVPN is not a typical VPN service. Namely, Radmin is first of all completely free and is a great option for creating a virtual LAN, through which resources can be shared. It has no advanced features to speak of but can complement nicely other services that incorporate a firewall-as-a-service model, antivirus, anti-phishing, and malware solutions. It uses the same encryption protocol as OpenVPN but in terms of security is not as complex nor advanced. Whether Radmin VPN is a good alternative will depend on whether you need a virtual LAN component or a full-scale ZTNA solution.

For a full ZTNA solution that doesn’t require too much technical knowledge and represents a one-stop shop for your needs, you can turn to NordLayer. NordLayer offers a firewall, internet shield, and much more while not compromising on speed. In terms of pricing, it competes well with OpenVPN, and depending on the size of your company, might represent a better buy overall.

Final Verdict

For newcomers to the topic, it may be difficult to fully understand what OpenVPN is all about. While it is a communication protocol, it’s also a VPN in its full sense. With the option to host it yourself, a lot of technical know-how will be needed, which is true for most complex ZTNA implementations. On the other hand, it offers a cloud-hosted variant which is easier to implement and offers most of the options that you have in a self-hosted environment. Sure, some advanced features are still in development, but thanks to the open-source concept, we’re sure updates will come fast.

Overall, whether OpenVPN is the right choice for you, will depend mostly on your unique needs, and the availability of technical employees who can take on the task of implementing it properly. Of course, there is the pricing element, and performance that need to be taken into consideration. All in all, OpenVPN is a solid choice for companies looking to implement a ZTNA approach and protect their remote workforce and company assets.

We've listed the best business VPNs and the best VPNs with antivirus

H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport review: A triathlete’s dream

5:33 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Fitness Headphones Gadgets Health & Fitness | Comments: Off

H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport: Two-minute review

There might not be a better set of headphones for triathletes than the H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport. Their lightweight frame, flexible build, and host of features, particularly the Playlist+ feature that lets you record a playlist from a source directly to the headset, make it better than the best open earbuds or the best wireless earbuds for use in the water. There’s also a case to be made for considering these over the best running headphones if you’re looking for something specifically for races, marathons, or even a lengthy jog.

Being bone conduction headphones, the H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport aren’t going to be the best sounding option out there,but they sound better than most bone conduction headphones I’ve used. And having completely uncovered ears is crucial if you need to hear your surroundings when on the trail or running alongside traffic.

That said, there’s still some room for growth, as I’ll go into in a bit, and the price is on the higher side for this form factor. But, triathletes, swimmers, and anyone that hates plugging up their ears during a workout (they work well in the gym as well) will get a lot out of the H2O Audio Tri 2 Multi-Sport.

H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport charging case and non-charging case — headset, charging case, regular case, and accessories (Image credit: Future / James Holland)

The Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport, at 3.2 grams, is very lightweight. It wraps around the back the head with a frame that can be twisted this way and that, not to mention has plenty of clearance in the back to fit all sorts of head shapes and sizes (and also handle plenty of abuse). It’s extremely stable and doesn’t move at all even with rapid head movements.

Its matte black rubberized covering offers an essentially waterproof IPX8 rating, which is one of the things that makes it so good for use in the water. Its charging port is a unique proprietary one, most likely to keep the headset fully waterproof.

H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport charging port on headphones — (Image credit: Future / James Holland)

The downside of the thick covering comes when trying to manipulate the controls, of which there are three: volume down, power, and volume up. The headphones are somewhat slow to respond, especially when trying to use secondary functions, which are triggered by either a double press or a long press. On top of that, if the double press isn’t quick enough, it just registers as two successive single presses.

This is particularly frustrating when trying to switch from Bluetooth to on-board memory in the middle of a run, or when trying to use the Playlist+ feature. I ended up having a few moments of silence that I didn’t mean to record along with the beginning of another song when testing this feature because my presses weren’t always registering.

On the bright side, the H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport comes with 8GB of storage and a built-in MP3 player that allows about 2,000 songs to be loaded for use when you can’t or don’t want to bring your phone, such as in the water where Bluetooth connectivity doesn’t work well. This is all bolstered by the Playlist+ feature, which essentially live records whatever you play through the Bluetooth connection once engaged and turns it into an MP3 loaded onto the headphones.

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H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport app front page — (Image credit: Future / James Holland)

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H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport app library organization — (Image credit: Future / James Holland)

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H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport app Playlist+ feature — (Image credit: Future / James Holland)

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H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport app library — (Image credit: Future / James Holland)

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H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport app library settings — (Image credit: Future / James Holland)

Of course, if you run a whole playlist while doing this, it basically registers it as one song, so if you want to skip from song to song, you’ll have to start and stop for each song. Still, it’s a welcome way to add music to the onboard storage without buying MP3s.

Since using the buttons can be problematic, engaging the Playlist+ feature and getting exactly what I wanted was a bit of a chore as I ended with the beginning parts of the last song cut off while I was trying to stop the feature without initial success.

Doing that through the app where I could control by pressing on the app was much easier. In general, the app was easy to navigate. My only gripe with the app is that I have to switch from Bluetooth mode to memory mode to see what’s stored on the headphones and then back again to use the Playlist+ feature.

Before I dig into the overall sound quality of the H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport, I want to talk about the vibrations of it and bone-conduction headphones in general. These types of headphones transmit sound by essentially vibrating the frequencies through the high cheek bones. The benefit of this is that it leaves your ear completely untouched so you can hear everything around you – even transparency mode on wireless earbuds aren’t as good. Check out our guide to how bone conduction headphones work for more details. The drawback is that at higher volumes, the vibrations can cause discomfort, sometimes even to the point of nausea. It’s the main reason that I typically don’t use bone-conduction headphones as my daily driver (I’m also only doing around three-mile runs, typically).

H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport over-the-ear — (Image credit: Future / James Holland)

However, H2O Audio has somehow managed to greatly minimize this effect to the point where I only get a very slight discomfort at the highest settings, and even then it’s more annoying than anything else. Regarding the sound quality itself, it’s good but don’t expect hi-res audio. When using them during a run or even just around the house, they’re not going to have the detail and clarity of high quality earbuds. But, they do reproduce everything well enough.

There’s a decent amount of bass, though not a huge amount (it probably would create the discomfort issues I mentioned above). The midrange is nice and full, while the high-end is a little rolled off but doesn’t sound veiled. As is often the case with bone-conduction headphones, it’s good for the form factor and that’s good enough.

Interestingly enough, they sound better underwater when used with the provided earplugs. When I put the earplugs in before submerging, the audio gets boomy and somewhat indistinct, but as soon as I go under, everything sounds clear as day with tight bass and balanced mids and high end. It’s really quite something to experience.

While you can take calls with the H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport, they’re not ideal for it as you’ll sound quiet and a bit far away. It’s not a huge deal breaker to me just because of the niche purpose of these headphones (and the fact that most earbuds are still just okay in this department).

Lastly, I want to mention the battery life as it offers nine hours of use (18 total if you spring for the charging case). Though something like the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 offers 12 hours on a single charge, that’s quite good compared to what many wireless earbuds offer and is enough for a marathon, not to mention you won’t have to deal with discomfort of sweaty earbuds.

H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport: Specifications

H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport: Price and availability

How much does it cost? $199.99 / £155.68 (about AU$310)
When is it available? Available now
Where can you get it? Available in the US and UK

The H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport’s price point of $199.99 / £155.68 is a bit pricey for a pair of bone-conduction headphones, but its price makes sense when you think about the fact that the original version of this tri-athlete-focused headset started at $149.99 (£128.00, AU$225.00) and the introduction of the Playlist+ feature added about $20/£20 to the price tag.

Bumping the price up thanks to some design upgrades makes sense as well, though I would have liked to see the Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport keep the same price point as the Playlist+ enabled version 1 it replaced. If you have a little extra money to spend, there’s also a charging case available for an extra $49.99 (about £40 / AU$80).

Spending around $200 on bone conduction headphones is not unheard of. For example, the Suunto Wing has a similar price point at $199 / £169 / AUS $319. Of course, it doesn’t have the Playlist+ feature and its sound quality is underwhelming. However, it does offer up to 30 hours of battery life with its charging case. You get up to 18 with the H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport only if you pay extra for the charging case.

Price: 4 / 5

H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport: Scorecard

Should I buy the H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport?

Buy it if...

You want headphones for use on land and in water

You can run with these, you can swim or dive with these, or you can do both. There aren’t a lot of headphones out there that fit this niche and do it well. This is one of them.View Deal

You want to be able to record your playlists onto your headphones

The unique Playlist+ feature H2O Audio included here lets you put your whole streaming playlist on the headphone’s storage so you can listen without your phone or a Bluetooth connection.View Deal

Don't buy it if...

You’re on a budget

The price is appropriate for what’s on offer, but the H2O Audio Tri 2 Multi-Sport is not a budget offering. If you’re limited on funds, there are cheaper alternatives out there.View Deal

You want Hi-Res audio

These sound good for what they are, but if you’re a stickler for audio resolution and quality, you can find other options (as long as you don’t need to use them in the water).View Deal

Also consider

Suunto Wing

The Suunto Wing goes for a similar price as the H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport. And while the audio quality is not on par, the extended battery life (with its case) makes it a better option for longer races, such as Ultra marathons.

Read our full Suunto Wing review View Deal

OpenRock Pro

Despite the less-than-stellar audio performance, the OpenRock Pro are affordable with a comfortable fit, not to mention have a very long battery life, making them a good option for those that want that open-ear design for long runs and don’t plan on swimming.

Read our full OpenRock Pro reviewView Deal

How I tested

Tested over a month
Listened to different kinds of media
Tested all the different features

I spent a month using the H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport as my workout headphones. While using them, I listened to all sorts of genres from electronic and hip-hop to rock and acoustic music to get an idea of how they sound. I used them in various settings such as on a run and even under water. Check out our guide to how bone conduction headphones work for more details.

After testing, it’s clear that they serve their purpose well as they are, per the name, for triathletes, swimmers, and athletes in general who want to hear their surroundings while listening to music.

I’ve spent the last few years reviewing audio equipment and have spent even longer using my critical ear as a listener and musician to understand what does and doesn’t sound good.

First reviewed November 2024

Zscaler Private Access

5:28 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro Software & Services | Comments: Off

Features

A key advantage of ZPA over traditional VPNs is the seamless, always-on connectivity it offers. In a typical VPN setup, users must log in, establish a connection, and then access corporate resources. This process can be cumbersome, especially for employees who frequently switch networks, such as moving from a wired connection to Wi-Fi or from Wi-Fi to a mobile data network.

With ZPA, there is no concept of "logging in" to a VPN. Once enrolled, users have continuous access to their applications without the need to connect or reconnect manually. This instant access means ZPA provides a smoother, more efficient experience, ensuring that employees can stay productive without constant interruptions.

The user experience is further enhanced when switching networks. While VPN users often need to reconnect every time they switch to a different network, ZPA adjusts automatically, maintaining uninterrupted access to corporate resources. This eliminates the hassle of reconnection prompts and ensures seamless access, making ZPA more convenient for employees who frequently move between networks or work on the go.

ZPA also excels in offering detailed visibility and control over user activity, which traditional VPNs lack. You get real-time insights into user activity, showing which applications are being accessed, how often they are used, and which users consume the most bandwidth. This level of visibility allows administrators to monitor and manage application access more effectively, identify potential security threats, and optimize network performance.

The admin dashboard focuses on user and application management rather than traditional networking elements like ports and protocols. This approach aligns with modern security practices, allowing administrators to manage access based on user roles and application requirements rather than IP addresses or network segments.

Pricing & Plans

Zscaler Private Access — (Image credit: Zscaler)

Zscaler doesn’t advertise prices on their website, which means you will have to reach out to them directly and get a quote that will revolve around the needs of your business. There are three tiers to choose from, the Essentials which provides the basics of protection offered by the company, which includes the VPN substitute paradigm on which Zscaler’s offering is based. The Business tier relies more on a full ZTNA approach with network segmentation and advanced threat prevention. And finally, the Transformation tier focuses on the full offering of Zscaler, aimed at larger enterprises that have dozens of on and off-site workers, accessing company assets.

While pricing is not directly available, you can get a sense of the costs by looking at the Azure marketplace that advertises the Business plan for $192 for a single user for one whole year. We’re sure you can get a custom quote with better pricing if you reach out directly, though keep in mind that Zscaler is one of the biggest names in the space and that you’re getting a premium package that includes all of the modern bells and whistles tied to a ZTNA approach.

Performance

Zscaler delivers consistently high performance, thanks to its extensive global network of data centers. This widespread network ensures that users experience low latency, even during peak times, as connections are always routed through the nearest and most efficient data center. Since Zscaler operates entirely in the cloud, it offers 99.999% availability, ensuring that your team can securely access resources from anywhere without interruption.

Additionally, Zscaler optimizes traffic through split tunneling, which means only traffic intended for the corporate network is routed through the VPN, while other traffic accesses the internet directly. This approach reduces bandwidth usage and improves overall speed and efficiency. However, if the service goes down, you will be left without internet access for your entire company. Such instances are rare but can happen and should be considered when deciding whether to go with Zscaler or another solution.

Privacy & Security

ZPA employs a ZTNA model, which means that users are only granted access to specific applications they need, rather than the entire network. During the demonstration, the ZPA user couldn't see any other devices or resources on the network, while the VPN user could scan and see various ports and devices connected to the corporate environment. This stark difference illustrates ZPA’s superior security model, as it minimizes the attack surface and reduces the risk of unauthorized access.

By not assigning an IP address to the user’s device on the corporate network, ZPA prevents lateral movement, ensuring that even if one application is compromised, it won’t lead to a wider network breach. This makes ZPA significantly more secure than traditional VPNs, which inherently trust any device connected to the network.

Alternatives

For businesses looking for alternatives, Check Point Quantum is a viable solution that offers both software and hardware solutions for security and safety online. Similar to Zscaler their offering is based on a ZTNA approach and pricing is also premium, especially if you go for the hardware + software combination. Nevertheless, you will be getting the best protection on the market.

ProtonVPN is another viable business VPN alternative to Zscaler. While it may look lightweight in comparison, it certainly is not thanks to its combination of double hop and Secure Core offering you will be able to protect all of your assets easily. It’s much simpler when it comes to setup and deployment and is cheaper in comparison. This doesn’t mean that you won’t have scalability options or top-notch security; so if you’re a smaller or mid-sized business Proton could be a better option.

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for a modern, scalable, and highly secure VPN solution then Zscaler’s ZPA might be the right tool for your organization. Businesses that prioritize security, remote access, and data protection can lean on its zero trust architecture, cloud-based delivery, and real-time threat protection to stay ahead of the threats.

This is one of the things that sets ZPA appart from traditional VPNs. Sure, there is a learning curve if you’re transitioning from standard VPN solutions, but the benefits of enhanced security, performance, and ease of management make Zscaler a worthwhile investment for businesses that rely heavily on remote work or remote access to company resources. As the shift towards cloud-based applications and remote work continues, adopting a zero trust model like ZPA can help businesses stay ahead of potential threats while maintaining efficient and secure access to critical resources.

We've listed the best business VPNs and the best VPNs with antivirus

Radmin VPN Review

5:07 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro Software & Services | Comments: Off

Features

Radmin VPN is a free solution designed specifically for Windows, that creates a virtual local area network (LAN) that connects multiple computers over the internet as if they were on the same physical network. In simple terms, it allows devices located anywhere in the world to interact as if they were on the same local network, eliminating the need for proximity.

To explain further, a traditional LAN consists of devices like computers, printers, and servers that are connected to the same internet source, such as a Wi-Fi router, allowing them to communicate with one another. For example, you can send documents from your computer to a printer connected to the same Wi-Fi without needing a physical cable. However, a true LAN requires all connected devices to be in close range of the same network source.

With Radmin VPN, this physical limitation is removed. It creates a virtual connection over the internet, allowing two or more devices to connect and interact as if they were on the same LAN, regardless of their geographical location.

After establishing this virtual LAN, you gain the usual benefits of a traditional LAN, including:

Sharing resources such as printers, servers, and applications
Direct file sharing between connected devices
Enhanced security, as network security tools can be applied to protect all connected devices

With that being said, if you want to mask your IP, introduce a firewall, or deploy an anti-phishing or ad-blocking service, you will need to turn to other providers or solutions as Radmin doesn’t provide any.

For gamers, a great feature is that it offers access to over 1,000 gaming networks that have been set up by other Radmin VPN users, giving you the ability to join existing networks or create your own. All traffic exchanged between devices within these networks is encrypted, ensuring secure communication while gaming or collaborating with others. A word of caution though, some servers are used with cracked software and you should be weary of freely connecting to such servers on gaming networks.

Pricing & Plans

There are no pricing plans with Radmin. By downloading the app from the website, without providing any personal or credit card information, you’re good to go. The app is completely free, but keep in mind, only available for users on Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7.

Performance

Radmin VPN doesn't encrypt your general internet traffic, so it won't have any impact on your regular browsing, torrenting, or streaming speeds. The VPN only comes into play when you're using its private virtual network for activities like file sharing or connecting with other devices.

A useful feature of Radmin VPN is that it provides tools to help you monitor your connection speeds. Each user on your network has a network indicator displayed next to their name, represented by a series of green bars showing their connection strength. Additionally, you can right-click on a user's name and ping them to check how long it takes for data to travel to their device and back, allowing you to gauge the responsiveness and latency of your virtual network. This feature makes it easier to assess the quality of your connection with other users and helps you troubleshoot any potential speed issues within the network.

Privacy & Security

Radmin VPN incorporates encryption as a key element of its virtual network but does not encrypt all internet traffic. Instead, it focuses on securing the data shared within the virtual LAN, ensuring that any information exchanged between devices on this network remains protected from unauthorized access. This means while your internet browsing activity isn't encrypted, the data you share with other devices connected through Radmin VPN is safeguarded from interception.

Radmin VPN uses 256-bit AES encryption, which is considered the gold standard for VPN security. This advanced encryption method is the same one used by financial institutions and even the US military for protecting classified data. While Radmin VPN doesn’t offer encryption for all types of internet traffic, it provides robust protection for the data transferred within your virtual LAN, ensuring a high level of security for your shared resources and information.

However, unlike some premium VPNs, Radmin VPN doesn't come with extra security features like DNS leak protection or kill switch functionality, which might be important for businesses with highly sensitive data.

Alternatives

Since Radmin is not a typical VPN or a business-focused VPN, any other VPN that offers advanced features could be a viable alternative. Windscribe could be the first alternative, as it also offers a free version of its services. However, if you want overall protection and scalability you will have to opt for paid plans. It is a quirky service that can help both individuals and businesses stay protected online.

A second alternative aimed more at business users in NordLayer. Nord offers complex protection through its NetShield feature that can protect business and private users from ads and phishing attempts. The firewall as a service option is also quite powerful and offers granular adjustments to be made on the fly. Speed is among the best in the market along with competitive pricing, making NordLayer one of the better choices in the market.

Final Verdict

It is difficult to make a case for Radmin if you do not belong to a niche group of people looking to utilize what it offers. Gamers are flocking to the service in order to create virtual LANs and play their favorite games with their friends or family. Moreover, businesses are also using Radmin, often in combination with Radmin’s paid software for remote access called Radmin 3. According to the company, it has been chosen by over 100,000 companies worldwide for remote tech support to employees.

If you’re a more advanced administrator who utilizes a proprietary firewall, phishing, and ad blockers, obfuscation techniques, and complex encryption but lacks a virtual LAN creation tool, then Radmin can be an ideal choice. On the other hand, if you’re a business looking for an off-the-shelf complete solution, feel free to skip Radmin, and look for another product.

We've listed the best business VPNs and the best VPNs with antivirus

Grecell T-1000 portable power station review

5:01 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro | Comments: Off

Grecell T-1000: 30-second review

Specs

Battery Capacity: 999Wh
Output Power: 1000W continuous, 2000W surge capacity
Battery Type: Lithium-ion with upgraded BMS (Battery Management System)
Weight: Approximately 6 kg
Dimensions: 293 x 200 x 205 mm
Ports and Outputs: 2 AC outlets (1000W max output), 1 USB-C PD (Power Delivery) port (60W), 3 USB-A ports with Quick Charge 3.0 (18W each), 2 DC outputs (12V), 1 carport (12V), 15W wireless charging pad
Charging Inputs: AC Adapter, PV input for solar panel charging (12-26V), Car Charger Input: 12V
Display: Monochrome LED screen

When the Grecell T-1000 was originally launched, it was seen as a cheap, versatile, and feature-packed portable power station. Sure enough, with 2 AC ports, 4 USB ports, and 3 DC outputs, alongside three possible charging options, there's plenty on offer. Not only that, but it also includes 15W wireless charging on top, a foldaway handle, and an emergency lamp, which all make this relatively small and comparatively lightweight 1000Wh portable power station seem like a great option.

The design, primarily because of its size and weight, along with the large carry handle with a rubberised grip, made it easy to transport in comparison with some of the larger, more refined models. The simple-to-use LCD, rubberised corners all give it a robust appearance and practically enable it to withstand a knock or two

However, times have moved on, and the market leaders have now produced extremely refined 1000Wh models priced at roughly the same level, if not cheaper. The T-1000 still provides a decent option for anyone looking for a compact power station of this capacity and feature set. But it faces stiff competition from so many of the best portable power stations at this stage in the game.

The design of the T-1000 is less refined than some others at least aesthetically, but it's simple and straightforward, with direct AC charging from a wall socket if needed, and options for a 12-26V input or PV input for solar panels. All charging ports, including AC, DC, and USB, are neatly laid out on the front. While the DC and USB ports are well-positioned, the AC ports are slightly too low for some plug designs, such as those for many Apple laptops and some projectors, particularly with UK-style plugs. If the plug transformer is flush with the socket, it can be impossible to push the plug fully in, requiring an extension cable for even basic appliances.

That said, in most territories that don't utilise UK-style plugs, access to the AC sockets and the surrounding space should be sufficient. Otherwise, the rest of the design and features are simple, easy to understand, and well laid out.

When it comes to delivering power, the 1000Wh capacity performs well, charging a variety of devices, including a DJI Air 3S, a Sony A7 IV battery, several power banks, and a 13-inch MacBook Air several times with plenty of capacity left over.

While the Grecell T-1000 is perfectly good as a portable power station, there are, unfortunately, there are better options available. At its current price, it's just a little too expensive to be a viable choice. Realistically, it would need to be reduced by at least a third to make it competitive.

Grecell T-1000: Price & availability

The Grecell T-1000 is widely available from the official Grecell site here with a retail price of $580 / £550, and at online retailers like Amazon for around the same price. That doesn't offer huge value for money in our book.

Score: 3/5

Grecell T-1000: Design & build

The first thing we noticed about the Grecell T-1000 is its slightly dated and industrial design. The main case is made entirely of toughened black plastic, giving it that durable jobsite look and feel, or a hardy trooper for the back of the truck or campervan. The design is tough, and during testing, it sustained a few knocks which had little effect on the outer, with the plastic case proving to be extremely robust.

An interesting feature that helps to reinforce the robust nature, are the large rubberised corners, which help protect it as it's moved around. The foldaway handle features a large rubberised grip, making it easy and comfortable to carry in all conditions, although it's worth highlighting it isn't weather proof.

Looking over the casing of the T-1000, everything seems pretty solid; it's just that the design of the casing isn't as refined as much of the competition. All the main sockets are laid out across the front and are clearly labelled, with the DC input for mains charging and the PV input for solar charging port also positioned on the front, making everything easily accessible.

One of the great things about the T-1000's design is its accessibility—nothing is hidden away around the sides, except for the small emergency lamp, which can also be switched on from the front of the unit. Otherwise, everything, from the power switch to the DC, USB, and AC sockets, is laid out in a row, and there's very little here that is difficult or tricky to understand. Simply plug in, push the button to switch, and you have instant power.

A small LED screen is used to monitor power draw. This display is monochrome and shows basic information, such as the remaining battery capacity (marked as a percentage), alongside USB power out, DC power out, AC power out, and the input amounts if you are giving it a quick power charge.

A major design feature is the fact that the top of the portable power station is nice and flat. So, if you're on a building site or using this in the field as a photographer or videographer, it provides a handy flat platform to place your gear. This platform also includes a 15W wireless charging plate, which is useful if you have a mobile phone or other wireless charging device that needs a quick power boost.

Design: 3.5/5

Grecell T-1000: Features

One of the big features of the T-1000 is its relatively compact size and lightweight. It measures 293 x 200 x 205mm centimetres and weighs just 6kg. Inside, the battery capacity is 999Wh, and it can output up to 1000W with a 2000W surge capacity, which, considering the size, is really quite impressive.

The power is supplied by lithium batteries, which are standard for this type of portable power station, and there's a BMS that provides built-in overload, overcharge, and short-circuit protection.

Taking a look at the port options, there are 4 USB ports, including a USB-C PD 60W and 3 USB Type-A QC 18W. If you really want to put the T-1000 to the test, you can simultaneously power up to 10 devices: 2 AC outputs, the USB-C port mentioned earlier, 3 USB Type-A ports, one wireless charger on top, one carport, and 2 DC outputs. As long as the total combined output of all plugged-in devices does not exceed 1000W, you can use them all at the same time.

Obviously, with that many devices plugged in, the Grecell T-1000 will discharge relatively quickly, so there are options to charge it in three different ways. The first is through the AC adapter supplied with the power station. Then there's the PV input, which allows you to connect solar panels, and finally, there's the car input, enabling you to charge via a 12V source.

Features: 3.5/5

Grecell T-1000: Performance

When it comes to looking at the T-1000, we've broken down the performance into three different areas: firstly, the design and how it fares when you're carrying the unit around; secondly, the flexibility of use—how easy it is to use all of the ports and sockets available; and finally, the charging capacity and output—does it actually deliver what it claims on the box, and is there anything you should look out for?

Starting with the design, it looks less refined than much of the competition, and it is a little boxy, but it essentially looks like a piece of kit you'd find on a building site. It really matches the drill cases and hard cases you often see with power tools, and as such the T-1000 looks at home in a trade environment. Not only that but with the rubberised corners and tough plastic casing, it feels a little more robust than some others. At the very least, any knocks or scuffs just add to the aesthetic rather than detract from it.

So, while this might not be the first choice for van life enthusiasts or photographers and videographers who prefer their portable power stations to have a little more style, for those working in the trades who aren't as concerned about aesthetics, the T-1000 could be a great option. Then there's the actual size and weight, which is interesting because the size is relatively compact. Compared with some other power stations, it is also relatively lightweight, especially considering its capacity. So again, if you need to carry this power station over short distances, it's far easier than some of the competition, particularly with its large carry handle.

The next part of the test was to see how easy it was to connect various devices. When it comes to the standard DC ports, they're nicely laid out, making it very easy to plug in devices for charging or topping up the battery. Next to the DC port, there are 4 USB ports, which are also well-positioned. While the USB-C port only offers a PD output of 60W, that's more than sufficient to keep a MacBook topped up or to power other devices. The three USB-A ports, each offering 18W, enable you to charge mobile phones and smaller devices without issue. Of course, the AC ports attract the most interest, and with two of them side by side, you can quickly plug in devices and take advantage of mains-style power output, up to 1000W.

That output is more than enough for most devices and appliances you'd use outdoors. While you won't be able to power a household kettle or iron, for most other items—such as blenders, TVs, or projectors—this small power station is more than capable. The only real issue here arises with UK plugs, especially for devices like Apple Mac laptops where the transformer is positioned below the plug. With many other devices using this style of plug, there's simply not enough space between the socket and the surface the power station is resting on to allow the transformer to sit properly. Additionally, the slightly recessed design of the AC ports prevents some plugs from sitting flush against the power station, which means they just can't be plugged in.

The only practical workaround is to use a power adapter: plug the adapter into the power station, and then plug your devices into the adapter to gain more flexibility. This actually works well, and small power adapters can be purchased cheaply, allowing you to connect two or three devices to the adapter and then directly into the T-1000. It handles the power draw remarkably well, as long as the combined output doesn't exceed the 1000W limit.

When used to power multiple devices, the T-1000 is able to charge mobile phones, drones, cameras, and 18V drill batteries without issue and it will run any device that draws less than 1000W. In terms of performance, the T-1000 delivers as advertised, with no notable problems. The only real drawback is its lack of design flair or some of the advanced features found in competing models. However, as a straightforward, solid, and functional power station, it performs very well.

Test Scores:

DJI Air 3S = 49-charges
DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro = 125-charges
MacBook Air 13" M2 - 16-charges
Sony NP-FZ100 Battery - 52-charges

Performance: 3.5/5

Should you buy the Grecell T-1000?

What the Grecell T-1000 doesn't have in design flair compared to the competition, it makes up for in solid functionality. While it is priced roughly the same, if not a little more than many of its rivals, it offers a reliable solution. The design isn't as aesthetic as many others on the market, but it is robust. If you're working in a trade and are okay with the aesthetics of a device but are concerned about how robust it is, the T-1000 is a great option. The rubberised corners protect it from knocks, and its rugged, utilitarian look means that if it gets dirty, scuffed, or scratched, it's not going to be a major concern.

The design also keeps everything nice and simple. The ports on the front are easily accessible, so if you store it in a van, you won't need to search around the back to access an AC port when you need to charge it. This ease of use is a huge benefit. While the AC ports, especially for UK plugs, are positioned a little low, using an adapter solves this issue, and the ability to plug in multiple devices via an adapter is a practical feature that will appeal to many.

The flat top with wireless charging for mobile phones is also a great addition. Ultimately, the T-1000 is a simple but effective power station. If you're looking for a power station to use on-site, this is a great option. Its robust design might actually give it a slight edge over some of the more refined offerings on the market. However, at its current price, you have market leaders like the Jackery Explorer 1000 on sale for slightly less. With its feature set and similarly robust design, it isn't easy to justify the cost of the T-1000 over those other models.

Buy it if...

You need a robust power station

The rubberised corners and simple plastic design make the Grecell T-1000 a solid option for use on building sites or anywhere it might be subjected to knocks and bashes.

You need something small and easily portable

Considering the internal capacity of 999Wh, the actual size and weight of this portable power station make it extremely versatile and easy to move and carry.

Don't buy it if...

You like advanced features

The T-1000 keeps the feature set simple. While it does include wireless charging, the rest of the features are focused on providing straightforward and effective power without any frills.

Design aesthetics are important to you.

The design of the T-1000 is highly functional rather than aesthetic. While it's great for use in the field and everything is easily accessible and practical, it's not the best-looking portable power station on the market.

For more outdoor essentials, we tested the best rugged phones and the best rugged tablets.

GoodAccess Business VPN review

4:57 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro Software & Services | Comments: Off

Features

GoodAccess enhances security by implementing a Software-Defined Perimeter (SDP) that utilizes ZTNA principles. This approach ensures that no user or device is trusted by default, regardless of whether they are inside or outside the network. Every user accessing the network must be authenticated and verified, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access or cyber threats. Furthermore, the platform employs AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption to ensure that data is encrypted and safe while traveling between remote workers and the company network. Admins have the choice of setting up VPN protocols such as OpenVPN and IKEv2 with both supporting the industry standard AES as their common denominator.

In terms of the servers available, the offering is on the slimmer side, spanning 35 locations spread across the US, Europe, and Asia. If you have specific location requirements it may be worth checking the list before deciding to commit to the service.

The platform offers split tunneling, which enables you to select which traffic should pass through the VPN and which can access the internet directly. This feature helps optimize bandwidth and ensures that critical business traffic remains protected. Additionally, GoodAccess integrates with Single Sign-On (SSO) providers like Google Workspace and Azure Active Directory (and numerous others), simplifying access management for businesses using these tools.

GoodAccess also includes a DNS filter called Threat Blocker, which protects your network from malicious websites, malware, phishing attempts, ransomware, spam, and other online threats. This feature acts as an extra layer of defense, preventing users from accidentally accessing harmful content.

Additionally, the service comes with split tunneling, which optimizes your VPN gateway connection by allowing you to choose which traffic routes through the VPN and which accesses the internet directly. This helps improve overall speed and reduces latency, ensuring a smoother browsing experience. Additionally, GoodAccess provides a static IP address, giving your company a unique identifier for its network. Curiously enough, there is no kill switch option on offer.

GoodAccess Business VPN — (Image credit: GoodAccess)

An API is available only on higher-paid plans, but the connection agent can be used across Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and ChromeOS. Finally, the central dashboard houses all of the functionality, and features a logically laid out array of functionality on the left side. It is easy to use and offers powerful logging features that collate system and gateway access logs, threat blocker logs, device posture, and admin logs.

Pricing & Plans

The positive in terms of the pricing plans is that you have a 14-day free trial across all plans, and you can also schedule a live demo to get the feel of the offering. Plans are split between the Essential, Premium, and Enterprise plans, with Enterprise being tailored to your specific needs and pricing determined following that. All plans have a $39 per month cost for a dedicated gateway and a minimum of five users for the first two plans and $50 for the Enterprise plan.

Essential costs $9 per month, per user, but if you opt for annual billing the costs come down to $7 a month. Premium costs $14 per month, per user, and with the annual billing comes down to $11 per month. The major difference between the two initial plans is the security that you get with the offer, while Essential focuses more on VPN and whitelisting features, Premium offers a full blown ZTNA approach, and is more suited for companies looking to stay protected and scale the protection easily.

Performance

While its server network isn’t as extensive as some competitors, the service maintains consistent speeds and uptime. This makes it suitable for everyday business tasks such as video conferencing, file sharing, and accessing cloud-based applications.

However, companies with heavy data usage or those needing extremely high speeds might find the performance a bit limiting compared to more premium business VPN solutions. This limit is pretty evident if you choose a server which is not close to your location i.e. Asian servers from Europe. Nevertheless, you can squeeze out some more performance if you opt to use IKEv2 as opposed to OpenVPN, which worked at least in our case.

Privacy & Security

The SDP model creates an invisible barrier around company resources, meaning these resources are only accessible to authenticated users with explicit permissions. This drastically limits the attack surface, as potential attackers cannot even see what resources exist within the network. By combining ZTNA with encryption, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and single sign-on (SSO) integrations, GoodAccess ensures that sensitive business data is protected at multiple layers.

Additionally, GoodAccess’s ZTNA framework allows businesses to implement role-based access controls, ensuring that employees have access only to the resources they need. This granular control helps maintain strict security policies and prevents lateral movement within the network, further safeguarding company assets from potential breaches. This makes GoodAccess an effective solution for companies aiming to secure remote workforces and comply with stringent data protection regulations.

The platform also offers two-factor authentication (2FA), providing an additional security layer for user accounts. This makes it more difficult for unauthorized users to gain access, even if they manage to obtain login credentials. GoodAccess places a strong emphasis on privacy protection, demonstrated by its GDPR compliance and ISO 27001 and SOC 2 certifications. These certifications indicate that GoodAccess meets specific business standards for data security, privacy, and compliance, ensuring that customer information is handled with care. While the company does maintain logs to assist its users, it ensures full security and privacy through data encryption. The information stored is mainly related to account usage or for purposes such as providing customer support, development, and analytics.

Alternatives

If speed is not the determining factor, an alternative to GoodAcccess Business VPN could be Windscribe, a quirky, stable and all around great VPN for a price that seriously undercuts the premium competitors. Overall, it provides strong encryption, fast service, malware and ad blocking and flexible number of device connections. Moreover, if you like to have the ability to tweak your DNS and firewall settings, the Windscribe is a great choice, since the granularity it offers can give you an extra edge if you’re an experienced admin. To top it all off, the entry price is lower so if GoodAccess is not your cup of tea, give Windscribe a chance by trying out their free offer.

ProtonVPN is another alternative, though one aimed at more established and larger businesses looking to follow a ZTNA approach to its fullest. Double hop and Secure Core options this provider offers ensure the highest level of safety for your assets while remote workforces connect to them. Moreover, the offering is rounded out with safety and security features that rival other premium competitors in the market. However, be ready to pay for it, since price-wise it is more expensive than GoodAccess.

Final Verdict

GoodAccess is a solid business VPN choice for small and medium-sized enterprises that need a reliable, secure, and easy-to-manage solution. It is simple to deploy once signup is complete, and even easier to manage the remote workforce thanks to a logically laid out, yet powerful dashboard.

While it may not have all the advanced features that larger corporations require, its strong encryption, user-friendly interface, and flexible pricing plans make it a practical option for teams looking to protect their remote access without the hassle of complex configurations. A ZTNA approach is still possible using GoodAccess, though you can get much more with premium providers, but you will also have to pay for it.

We've listed the best business VPNs and the best VPNs with antivirus

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Levoit LVAC-200 specs

Levoit LVAC-200 cordless vacuum review: design

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Grecell T-1000: Price & availability

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Grecell T-1000: Features

Grecell T-1000: Performance

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Buy it if...

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Performance

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