Confident Computing – by Ask Leo! https://newsletter.askleo.com/ Technology in terms you understand Sun, 01 Nov 2026 16:18:21 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0.8 https://newsletter.askleo.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/al320new.jpg Confident Computing – by Ask Leo! https://newsletter.askleo.com/ 32 32 #1146 – How to Select Text Faster with the Keyboard https://newsletter.askleo.com/1146-how-to-select-text-faster-with-the-keyboard/ Tue, 03 Nov 2026 16:00:24 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9467 How to Select Text Faster with the Keyboard

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#1146 - How to Select Text Faster with the Keyboard

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This Week on Ask Leo!

How to Select Text Faster with the Keyboard

How to Select Text Faster with the Keyboard
You don't have to use a mouse all the time.

I'll show you keystrokes that let you select a letter, word, line, or whole document without your hands ever leaving the keyboard.

Read: How to Select Text Faster with the Keyboard

-

How Do You Delete Things from the Internet?

How Do You Delete Things from the Internet?
The internet is forever… except when it's not.

We say the internet is forever. We also say that once you delete something, it's gone. Both are true, and usually at the worst possible moment. I'll describe why deleting rarely removes every copy, why you still can't get those copies back, and two simple habits that protect you.

Read: How Do You Delete Things from the Internet?

-

Why Am I Being Asked to Turn Off My Adblocker When I Don

Why Am I Being Asked to Turn Off My Adblocker When I Don't Use One?
It's a blurry line.

I'll explain the browser setting that's most likely to blame, show you how to test it in seconds, and help you decide what to do next.

Read: Why Am I Being Asked to Turn Off My Adblocker When I Don't Use One?

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How Do I Bypass Keyloggers? The Guaranteed Way to Avoid Having Your Keystrokes Maliciously Recorded

How Do I Bypass Keyloggers? The Guaranteed Way to Avoid Having Your Keystrokes Maliciously Recorded
An answer many don't want to hear.

People swear by tricks that can beat a keylogger. I'll show you why none of them are completely effective. Only one approach keeps your keystrokes safe.

Read: How Do I Bypass Keyloggers? The Guaranteed Way to Avoid Having Your Keystrokes Maliciously Recorded

Ask Leo! Tip of the Day

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Do you need Tracking Prevention?

Watch next ? Why Am I Being Asked to Turn Off My Adblocker When I Don't Use One? ? https://youtu.be/zKR8_QT0DjM

Watch: Do you need Tracking Prevention?


Fooling Keyloggers

Watch next ? How Do I Bypass Keyloggers? ? https://youtu.be/Iy54tdoZqZ0

Watch: Fooling Keyloggers


How Do I Bypass Keyloggers? The Guaranteed Way to Avoid Having Your Keystrokes Maliciously Recorded

People swear by tricks that can beat a keylogger. I'll show you why none of them are completely effective. Only one approach keeps your keystrokes safe.

Watch: How Do I Bypass Keyloggers? The Guaranteed Way to Avoid Having Your Keystrokes Maliciously Recorded


Why Am I Being Asked to Turn Off My Adblocker When I Don't Use One?

I'll explain the browser setting that's most likely to blame, show you how to test it in seconds, and help you decide what to do next.

Watch: Why Am I Being Asked to Turn Off My Adblocker When I Don't Use One?


How to Select Text Faster with the Keyboard

I'll show you a keystrokes that let you select a letter, word, line, or whole document without your hands ever leaving the keyboard.

Watch: How to Select Text Faster with the Keyboard


The Internet is Forever

Watch next ? How Do You Delete Things from the Internet? ? https://youtu.be/XiH8_l88tSY

Watch: The Internet is Forever


How Do You Delete Things from the Internet?

We say the internet is forever. We also say that once you delete something, it's gone. Both are true, and usually at the worst possible moment. I'll describe why deleting rarely removes every copy, why you still can't get those copies back, and two simple habits that protect you.

Watch: How Do You Delete Things from the Internet?


 

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]]> #1145 – Microsoft Listened: You Can Move the Taskbar Now! https://newsletter.askleo.com/1145-microsoft-listened-you-can-move-the-taskbar-now/ Tue, 27 Oct 2026 15:00:31 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9464 Microsoft Listened: You Can Move the Taskbar Now!

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#1145 - Microsoft Listened: You Can Move the Taskbar Now!

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I'm very pleased to announce that Version 7 of The Ask Leo! Guide to Staying Safe on the Internet is now available!

  • If you've purchased and registered the EXPANDED EDITION of any previous version, you should find Version 7 in your Expanded Edition owners page (also listed in your My Account page.)
  • If you're a Silver or Gold level patron, you should find the Expanded Edition owners page listed in your My Account page. If not, let me know and we'll make it happen.
  • If you have and registered the FREE version of the book, you'll also find the updated free Version 7 in your Free Edition owners page (also listed in your My Account page.)
  • If you don't have the FREE version you can get it here.

And, finally, if you don't have the Expanded version, it's on sale for 50% off until the end of October. You can purchase it here.

Whew! Quite the update! Hope you find it helpful.

Leo

-

This Week on Ask Leo!

Microsoft Listened: You Can Move the Taskbar Now!

Microsoft Listened: You Can Move the Taskbar Now!
It only took five years.

Windows 11 removed the ability to move the taskbar, and people weren't happy, including me. Five years later, it's back. I'll show you where the new setting lives, what to do if you don't see it yet, and which taskbar complaints are still waiting for a fix.

Read: Microsoft Listened: You Can Move the Taskbar Now!

-

How Much Can I Trust Information on the Internet?

How Much Can I Trust Information on the Internet?
Always consider the source.

There's so much information at your fingertips online, but how much of it can you believe? I'll show you how to spot trustworthy sources, why seeing something everywhere doesn't make it true, and four steps to help you sort fact from fiction.

Read: How Much Can I Trust Information on the Internet?

-

How Can a PIN Be as Secure as a Password?

How Can a PIN Be as Secure as a Password?
In a word: scope.

A short PIN seems weaker than a long password, yet for signing in to Windows, it can be just as safe and maybe safer. The secret is where the PIN works, not how long it is. I'll explain and show you how to make yours stronger if you're uneasy.

Read: How Can a PIN Be as Secure as a Password?

-

Microsoft Is Shrinking 365 Family Plan Storage: Check Before You Renew

Microsoft Is Shrinking 365 Family Plan Storage: Check Before You Renew
Where else but OneDrive?

Microsoft is changing how much OneDrive storage comes with Microsoft 365 Family. If you share your subscription, you could run out of room. I'll show you what's changing, walk through an example, and explain how to tell if you're affected and what to do about it.

Read: Microsoft Is Shrinking 365 Family Plan Storage: Check Before You Renew

Ask Leo! Tip of the Day

For Bronze patrons of Ask Leo!

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TEH Podcast

Find the latest episode here.

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You Can Move the Taskbar!

Subscribe to the Ask Leo! YouTube channel for more tech videos & answers: https://go.askleo.com/ytsub

Watch: You Can Move the Taskbar!


Microsoft Is Shrinking 365 Family Plan Storage: Check Before You Renew

Microsoft is changing how much OneDrive storage comes with Microsoft 365 Family. If you share your subscription, you could run out of room. I'll show you what's changing, walk through an example, and explain how to tell if you're affected and what to do about it.

Watch: Microsoft Is Shrinking 365 Family Plan Storage: Check Before You Renew


How Can a PIN Be as Secure as a Password?

A short PIN seems weaker than a long password, yet for signing in to Windows, it can be just as safe and maybe safer. The secret is where the PIN works, not how long it is. I'll explain and show you how to make yours stronger if you're uneasy.

Watch: How Can a PIN Be as Secure as a Password?


Microsoft Listened: You Can Move the Taskbar Now!

Windows 11 removed the ability to move the taskbar, and people weren't happy, including me. Five years later, it's back. I'll show you where the new setting lives, what to do if you don't see it yet, and which taskbar complaints are still waiting for a fix.

Watch: Microsoft Listened: You Can Move the Taskbar Now!


Is the Internet Reliable?

Subscribe to the Ask Leo! YouTube channel for more tech videos & answers: https://go.askleo.com/ytsub

Watch: Is the Internet Reliable?


How Much Can I Trust Information on the Internet?

There's so much information at your fingertips online, but how much of it can you believe? Whether it's tech facts or the news, I'll show you how to spot trustworthy sources, why seeing something everywhere doesn't make it true, and four steps to help you sort fact from fiction.

Watch: How Much Can I Trust Information on the Internet?


 

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]]> #1144 – How Do I Know Whether to Trust AI? https://newsletter.askleo.com/1144-how-do-i-know-whether-to-trust-ai/ Tue, 20 Oct 2026 15:00:21 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9462 How Do I Know Whether to Trust AI?

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#1144 - How Do I Know Whether to Trust AI?

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In my efforts to get answers to as many as possible, we've started playing with YouTube Shorts again. If you're subscribed to my YouTube Channel (and I hope you are, it really helps), you may see shorts intermingled with the full length videos you'll also find on askleo.com article pages.

It's a challenge to find formats that work for as many people as possible. I've had comments that my videos are too long, and too short. (On the same video at times!) Or too fast, or too slow. (Again, sometimes on the same video.) It'll be interesting to see what kind of response the shorts get.

And to sound like that sterotypical social media influencer/creator/whatever: "Like, Share, and Subscribe!". Smile Honestly, though, it really does help spread the word.

Take care,

Leo

-

This Week on Ask Leo!

How Do I Know Whether to Trust AI?

How Do I Know Whether to Trust AI?
It's not a new problem.

AI sounds sure of itself, but it can be wrong. How can you tell when you don't know much about the subject? I'll show you simple ways to check an AI's work, why this problem is older than AI, and the sniff test I rely on.

Read: How Do I Know Whether to Trust AI?

-

Sometimes, the Threat Is in the Hardware

Sometimes, the Threat Is in the Hardware

When it comes to security, you probably think about viruses and scams, but what about the hardware you touch every day? I'll cover four hardware threats and the habits that can keep you safe from all of them.

Read: Sometimes, the Threat Is in the Hardware

-

Which Files Were Affected by a Hack or Malware?

Which Files Were Affected by a Hack or Malware?
Inquiring minds want to know. They'll be disappointed.

Once a hacker's had access to your machine, there's no guaranteed way to know everything they touched. I'll discuss why backups, not scans, are your best defense, and what to do if you don't have one.

Read: Which Files Were Affected by a Hack or Malware?

-

Is It Safe to Store Files on My Desktop?

Is It Safe to Store Files on My Desktop?
Safe? Maybe. Risky? Probably. Messy? Definitely.

A reader's desktop folders suddenly emptied, and some files vanished completely. Here's why the desktop is a risky place to keep anything that matters, where your files really belong, and a cleaner, faster way to reach the programs and documents you use every day.

Read: Is It Safe to Store Files on My Desktop?

Ask Leo! Tip of the Day

For Bronze patrons of Ask Leo!

TEH Podcast

TEH Podcast

Find the latest episode here.

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Recover from a HACK!

Watch next ? Which Files Were Hacked? https://youtu.be/sXY_APxirXI

Watch: Recover from a HACK!


Is It Safe to Store Files on My Desktop?

A reader's desktop folders suddenly emptied, and some files vanished completely. Here's why the desktop is a risky place to keep anything that matters, where your files really belong, and a cleaner, faster way to reach the programs and documents you use every day.

Watch: Is It Safe to Store Files on My Desktop?


How Do I Know If I Can Trust AI?

Subscribe to the Ask Leo! YouTube channel for more tech videos & answers: https://go.askleo.com/ytsub

Watch: How Do I Know If I Can Trust AI?


Which Files Were Affected by a Hack or Malware?

You can't necessarily scan your way back to safety after a hack. Once a hacker's had access to your machine, there's no guaranteed way to know everything they touched. I'll discuss why backups, not scans, are your best defense, and what to do if you don't have one.

Watch: Which Files Were Affected by a Hack or Malware?


How Do I Know Whether to Trust AI?

AI sounds sure of itself, but it can be wrong. How can you tell when you don't know much about the subject? I'll show you simple ways to check an AI's work, why this problem is older than AI, and the sniff test I rely on.

Watch: How Do I Know Whether to Trust AI?


Two Habits to Prevent Keyloggers

Watch next ? Sometimes, the Threat Is in the Hardware ? https://youtu.be/RBLqqq4CvkE

Watch: Two Habits to Prevent Keyloggers


Sometimes, the Threat Is in the Hardware

When it comes to security, you probably think about viruses and scams, but what about the hardware you touch every day? I'll cover four hardware threats and the habits that can keep you safe from all of them.

Watch: Sometimes, the Threat Is in the Hardware


 

The post #1144 – How Do I Know Whether to Trust AI? appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

]]> #1143 – How to Select Text Faster: Six Tricks You May Not Know https://newsletter.askleo.com/1143-how-to-select-text-faster-six-tricks-you-may-not-know/ Tue, 13 Oct 2026 15:00:38 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9457 How to Select Text Faster: Six Tricks You May Not Know

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#1143 - How to Select Text Faster: Six Tricks You May Not Know

Problems viewing? Read online: https://newsletter.askleo.com/current-newsletter/
Newsletter FAQ & administration Answers to all your subscription and newsletter questions.
All the ways to Support Ask Leo!
 

This Week on Ask Leo!

How to Select Text Faster: Six Tricks You May Not Know

How to Select Text Faster: Six Tricks You May Not Know
Some convenient text-selection techniques you might be missing.

Dragging a mouse across text works, but it's slow and awkward. I'll show you how to double-click, triple-click, or click in the margin to select words, paragraphs, and lines. Learn several easy selection tricks plus one small catch that can break a password.

Read: How to Select Text Faster: Six Tricks You May Not Know

-

What

What's the Best Registry Cleaner? What to Use and What to Avoid
First, do no harm.

Registry cleaners can be dangerous. I'll review when they might be appropriate, which I'd use, and how to use them safely.

Read: What's the Best Registry Cleaner? What to Use and What to Avoid

-

Don

Don't Finish Authorizations You Didn't Start, and Be Cautious With Those You Did
If you didn't start it, someone else did.

There are scams that don't need your password or even your two-factor code to get into your account. They use real sign-in pages and a fake app with a harmless name to sneak in. I'll describe how it works and remind you of one simple habit that keeps you safe.

Read: Don't Finish Authorizations You Didn't Start, and Be Cautious With Those You Did

-

No, You Don

No, You Don't Have a Fax. An Analysis of a Spam Email
Examples of clues to look for.

A fake fax notice landed in my inbox and turned out to be a perfect teaching tool. I'll walk you through the clues that gave it away, from the sender's address to the hidden headers, and show you how AI is about to make spotting spam much harder.

Read: No, You Don't Have a Fax. An Analysis of a Spam Email

Ask Leo! Tip of the Day

For Bronze patrons of Ask Leo!

TEH Podcast

TEH Podcast

Find the latest episode here.

Ask Leo! on YouTube

Subscribe to Ask Leo! on YouTube.

No, You Don't Have a Fax. An Analysis of a Spam Email

A fake fax notice landed in my inbox and turned out to be a perfect teaching tool. I'll walk you through the clues that gave it away, from the sender's address to the hidden headers, and show you how AI is about to make spotting spam much harder.

Watch: No, You Don't Have a Fax. An Analysis of a Spam Email


Don't Finish Authorizations You Didn't Start, and Be Cautious With Those You Did

There are scams that don't need your password or even your two-factor code to get into your account. They use real sign-in pages and a fake app with a harmless name to sneak in. I'll describe how it works and remind you of one simple habit that keeps you safe.

Watch: Don't Finish Authorizations You Didn't Start, and Be Cautious With Those You Did


How to Select Text Faster: Six Tricks You May Not Know

Dragging a mouse across text works, but it's slow and awkward. I'll show you how to double-click, triple-click, or click in the margin to select words, paragraphs, and lines. Learn several easy selection tricks plus one small catch that can break a password.

Watch: How to Select Text Faster: Six Tricks You May Not Know


What's the Best Registry Cleaner? What to Use and What to Avoid

Registry cleaners can be dangerous. There may be cases where you want to use one, though, and I'll review which I'd use and how to use them safely.

Watch: What's the Best Registry Cleaner? What to Use and What to Avoid


 

The post #1143 – How to Select Text Faster: Six Tricks You May Not Know appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

]]> #1142 – Why Do They Make It So Hard to Recover Accounts? https://newsletter.askleo.com/1142-why-do-they-make-it-so-hard-to-recover-accounts/ Tue, 06 Oct 2026 15:00:10 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9454 Why Do They Make It So Hard to Recover Accounts?

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]]>
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#1142 - Why Do They Make It So Hard to Recover Accounts?

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PUMPKINSPICE is the 20% Ask Leo! Store 20% discount code for this month. Thanks for being a subscriber!

We lost our primary internet connection for a couple of hours on Saturday. The music stream I was listening to stopped. My wife went to turn on the TV, but ... nope, no streaming there either. My doorbell even complained. (Now there's a statement that would have seemed completely nonsensical twenty years ago!)

I coped with some old technology: a nap, through listening to music streamed via a "backup" internet connection: my mobile phone. By the time I was awake again, so was the internet.

It's amazing how the internet has impacted our lives. Consider this: you're only able to read this because of it!

Thanks for doing that! Smile

Take care,

Leo

-

This Week on Ask Leo!

Why Do They Make It So Hard to Recover Accounts?

Why Do They Make It So Hard to Recover Accounts?
Because the alternative is worse.

There's a good reason why getting back into a locked account can feel impossible. I'll discuss why account recovery has to be difficult, what you can do to make it easier on yourself, and how to avoid losing an account for good.

Read: Why Do They Make It So Hard to Recover Accounts?

-

Checking and Repairing a Disk with CHKDSK

Checking and Repairing a Disk with CHKDSK

Your computer has a built-in tool for catching hard drive problems before they turn into bigger headaches. I'll walk you through running CHKDSK from Windows Explorer and the command line, explain what it checks, and show you where to find results after a scheduled scan.

Read: Checking and Repairing a Disk with CHKDSK

-

What External Drive Should I Get?

What External Drive Should I Get?
There are many choices, and they keep changing.

I'll review what matters when buying an external backup drive, plus a few current picks worth considering. Capacity, USB speed, SSD versus traditional hard disk, and portable versus desktop can all be confusing.

Read: What External Drive Should I Get?

-

Should I Repair or Replace My Computer?

Should I Repair or Replace My Computer?
You can do either, but which is best?

Is it time to fix or replace your computer? The right choice depends on your budget, the machine's age, your warranty, and how much time you're willing to spend. I'll review the key factors and tell the story of my own laptop replacement.

Read: Should I Repair or Replace My Computer?

Ask Leo! Tip of the Day

For Bronze patrons of Ask Leo!

TEH Podcast

TEH Podcast

Find the latest episode here.

Ask Leo! on YouTube

Subscribe to Ask Leo! on YouTube.

What External Drive Should I Get?

You should have an external drive for your backups. Capacity, USB speed, SSD versus traditional hard disk, portable versus desktop, can all be confusing choices. I'll review actually matters when picking a backup drive, plus a few current picks worth considering.

Watch: What External Drive Should I Get?


Should I Repair or Replace My Computer?

Is it time to fix or replace your computer? The right choice depends on your budget, the machine's age, your warranty, and how much time you're willing to spend. I'll review the key factors and tell the story of my own laptop replacement.

Watch: Should I Repair or Replace My Computer?


Why Do They Make It So Hard to Recover Accounts?

Getting back into a locked account can sometimes feel impossible. There's a good reason. I'll discuss why account recovery has to be difficult, what you can do to make it easier on yourself, and how to avoid losing an account for good.

Watch: Why Do They Make It So Hard to Recover Accounts?


Checking and Repairing a Disk with CHKDSK

Your computer has a built-in tool for catching hard drive problems before they turn into bigger headaches. I'll walk you through running CHKDSK from Windows Explorer and the command line, explain what it checks, and show you where to find results after a scheduled scan.

Watch: Checking and Repairing a Disk with CHKDSK


 

The post #1142 – Why Do They Make It So Hard to Recover Accounts? appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

]]> #1141 – The 50-year Takeaway https://newsletter.askleo.com/1141-the-50-year-takeaway/ Tue, 29 Sep 2026 15:00:13 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9452 The 50-year Takeaway

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#1141 - The 50-year Takeaway

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Fifty years?

Yup. I've officially been playing with computers and tech for 50 years. It was that long ago that I was required to take my first programming class, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Perhaps it's fitting that in addition to an article reflecting on all that, this week also sees an article discussing the impact of AI on programming. My take on the latter? Programming (coding) ability still matters. Being good at it can still set you apart from the rest of the pack.

Take care,

Leo

-

This Week on Ask Leo!

The 50-year Takeaway

The 50-year Takeaway
Looking forward by looking back.

I'll look back at the pace of change in my 50 years in tech and ask the question, "What should today's kids learn for a future none of us can predict?" The answer isn't a skill at all. It's a way of thinking that remains critical no matter what you choose to do.

Read: The 50-year Takeaway

-

I

I'm Drowning in Spam. What Can I Do?
You can't stop spam, but you can manage it.

Three hundred spam emails a day? You're not alone, and no, blocking senders won't fix it. I'll discuss why blocking is pointless, why a full spam folder means things are working, and how to trains your email program to keep more junk out of your inbox.

Read: I'm Drowning in Spam. What Can I Do?

-

How Do Websites Keep Passwords Secure?

How Do Websites Keep Passwords Secure?
What to look for in data breach reports.

I'll give you a high-level overview of how websites know you typed the right password without actually storing it. The trick is something called hashing, and once you understand it, you'll know what to look for the next time a data breach hits the news.

Read: How Do Websites Keep Passwords Secure?

-

Responses to Your Three Common Password Manager Objections

Responses to Your Three Common Password Manager Objections
Security experts agree: you should use one.

Many people avoid password managers because they seem hard to set up, difficult to trust, or easy to lock yourself out of. I'll look at each objection and show you why they're not as concerning as they seem. Security experts say a password manager is the smartest step you can take.

Read: Responses to Your Three Common Password Manager Objections

-

Does All This Talk of AI Mean I Should Choose a Different Career?

Does All This Talk of AI Mean I Should Choose a Different Career?
Only if you're looking for an excuse.

Worried that AI is making coding skills useless? Understanding how to code still gives you an edge, even in the age of AI tools and vibe coding. Find out why your passion and interests, not trends, should guide your tech career choices.

Read: Does All This Talk of AI Mean I Should Choose a Different Career?

Ask Leo! Tip of the Day

For Bronze patrons of Ask Leo!

TEH Podcast

TEH Podcast

Find the latest episode here.

Ask Leo! on YouTube

Subscribe to Ask Leo! on YouTube.

Does All This Talk of AI Mean I Should Choose a Different Career?

Worried that AI is making coding skills useless? Understanding how to code still gives you an edge, even in the age of AI tools and vibe coding. Find out why your passion and interests, not trends, should guide your tech career choices.

Watch: Does All This Talk of AI Mean I Should Choose a Different Career?


Responses to Your Three Common Password Manager Objections

Many people avoid password managers because they seem hard to set up, difficult to trust, or easy to lock yourself out of. I'll look at each objection and show you why they're not as concerning as they seem. Security experts say a password manager is the smartest step you can take.

Watch: Responses to Your Three Common Password Manager Objections


How Do Websites Keep Passwords Secure?

I'll give you a high-level overview of how websites know you typed the right password without actually storing it. The trick is something called hashing, and once you understand it, you'll know what to look for the next time a data breach hits the news.

Watch: How Do Websites Keep Passwords Secure?


The 50-year Takeaway

I'll look back at everything that changed in my 50 years in tech, and ask the question: what should today's kids learn for a future none of us can predict? The answer isn't a specific skill at all. It's a way of thinking that remains critical no matter what you choose to do.

Watch: The 50-year Takeaway


I'm Drowning in Spam. What Can I Do?

Three hundred spam emails a day? You're not alone, and no, blocking senders won't fix it. I'll discuss why blocking is pointless, why a full spam folder means things are working, and how to trains your email program to keep more junk out of your inbox.

Watch: I'm Drowning in Spam. What Can I Do?


 

The post #1141 – The 50-year Takeaway appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

]]> #1140 – How Passkeys Work (A No-Tech Version) https://newsletter.askleo.com/1140-how-passkeys-work-a-no-tech-version/ Tue, 22 Sep 2026 15:00:56 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9450 How Passkeys Work (A No-Tech Version)

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#1140 - How Passkeys Work (A No-Tech Version)

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This week's featured article on Passkeys highlights a problem I run into frequently. It generates two type of feedback:

  • Thank you! This makes much more sense. I get it now.
  • I'm more confused than ever. (Sometimes this is phrased quite angrily.)

Same article or video, two polar-opposite reactions. It does make what I do challenging.

It's very similar to the other form of opposite reactions I get: "too fast and too technical" versus "too slow and too basic" -- again, often on the exact same video.

There's no winning. Smile

And that's OK. I'm not everyone's cup of tea (fast or slow brewed). And there are many, many other great creators out there with their own takes and pacing. I'll just keep doing what I do and hope I help the most I can.

Including you, of course. Smile

Take care,

Leo

-

This Week on Ask Leo!

How Passkeys Work (A No-Tech Version)

How Passkeys Work (A No-Tech Version)
Simple in concept.

Passwords are on their way out. I'll discuss what passkeys actually are, how they work, what happens if you lose your device, and how they protect you from phishing, malware, and data breaches... without the technical jargon.

Read: How Passkeys Work (A No-Tech Version)

-

How Do I Protect My Laptop Data From Theft?

How Do I Protect My Laptop Data From Theft?
Encryption, done properly, is the answer.

Lose your laptop, and your data could end up in the wrong hands. I'll walk you through the best ways to encrypt your files, from simple zip passwords to full disk encryption with BitLocker, VeraCrypt, or Cryptomator, so your secrets stay safe no matter what.

Read: How Do I Protect My Laptop Data From Theft?

-

5 Steps to Better Wi-Fi In Your House

5 Steps to Better Wi-Fi In Your House
How to improve your wireless connection. (Hint: it's not your ISP.)

I'll walk you through easy ways to place your router, cut interference, pick better channels, and boost your signal so every device connects faster.

Read: 5 Steps to Better Wi-Fi In Your House

-

How to Reformat a Disk

How to Reformat a Disk
Four different ways.

I'll walk you through four easy ways to erase and prepare a disk in Windows using File Explorer or the command line, plus tips on choosing the right file system and format type.

Read: How to Reformat a Disk

-

What Happened When My "Bank" Called Me

What Happened When My "Bank" Called Me
I practiced what I preach.

Your bank calls about a suspicious charge. The caller ID matches, they know your account details, and everything sounds legit. But is it really your bank, or is it a scammer? It happened to me. I'll share the steps I took to protect myself.

Read: What Happened When My "Bank" Called Me

Ask Leo! Tip of the Day

For Bronze patrons of Ask Leo!

TEH Podcast

TEH Podcast

Find the latest episode here.

Ask Leo! on YouTube

Subscribe to Ask Leo! on YouTube.

What Happened When My "Bank" Called Me

Your bank calls about a suspicious charge. The caller ID matches, they know your account details, and everything sounds legit. But is it really your bank, or is it a scammer? It happened to me. I'll share the steps I took to protect myself.

Watch: What Happened When My "Bank" Called Me


5 Steps to Better Wi-Fi In Your House

I'll walk you through easy ways to place your router, cut interference, pick better channels, and boost your signal so every device connects faster.

Watch: 5 Steps to Better Wi-Fi In Your House


How to Reformat a Disk

I'll walk you through four easy ways to erase and prepare a disk in Windows using File Explorer or the command line, plus tips on choosing the right file system and format type.

Watch: How to Reformat a Disk


How Passkeys Work (A No-Tech Version)

Passwords are on their way out. I'll discuss what passkeys actually are, how they work, what happens if you lose your device, and how they protect you from phishing, malware, and data breaches... without the technical jargon.

Watch: How Passkeys Work (A No-Tech Version)


How Do I Protect My Laptop Data From Theft?

Lose your laptop, and your data could end up in the wrong hands. I'll walk you through the best ways to encrypt your files, from simple zip passwords to full disk encryption with BitLocker, VeraCrypt, or Cryptomator, so your secrets stay safe no matter what.

Watch: How Do I Protect My Laptop Data From Theft?


 

The post #1140 – How Passkeys Work (A No-Tech Version) appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

]]> #1139 – What’s the Best Two-Factor Authentication Method? https://newsletter.askleo.com/1139-whats-the-best-two-factor-authentication-method/ Tue, 15 Sep 2026 15:00:32 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9448 What's the Best Two-Factor Authentication Method?

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Technology With Confidence - - - - - - - -               Confident Computing from Ask Leo! - Be sure to allow image display for the best viewing
#1139 - What's the Best Two-Factor Authentication Method?

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Whoops. Forgot this last week: this month's coupon code is FALLFELL. Use that on checkout to get 20% off anything in The Ask Leo! Store. Thanks for being a subscriber!

Take care,

Leo

-

This Week on Ask Leo!

What

What's the Best Two-Factor Authentication Method?
When you have a choice, that is.

Not all two-factor authentication works the same way. Some methods are more secure, some are more convenient, and some leave you open to sneaky attacks like SIM swapping. Here's my breakdown of hardware keys, authenticator apps, texts, email, and voice codes so you can pick what fits you best.

Read: What's the Best Two-Factor Authentication Method?

-

How Do I Recover My Outlook Account?

How Do I Recover My Outlook Account?
If you've lost access to your Outlook.com, Hotmail.com, Live.com, or other Microsoft account, this is the place to start.

Whether you forgot your password, got hacked, or can't verify your identity while traveling, I'll point you to the steps to try if you're locked out of your Microsoft account.

Read: How Do I Recover My Outlook Account?

-

Why Are There So Many Jerks Online?

Why Are There So Many Jerks Online?
Trolls, jerks, dicks, and entitled rectal orifices everywhere.

Are people are getting ruder online? You're not imagining the jerks, but you might be missing the bigger picture. I'll discuss why the internet doesn't really create more jerks, and why the good people around you still outnumber them by a mile.

Read: Why Are There So Many Jerks Online?

-

Back Up Your Email Using Thunderbird

Back Up Your Email Using Thunderbird
If it's only in one place, it's not backed up.

If your email only lives in your inbox online, it's not backed up. I'll show you how to use a free program to download a full copy of your email to your own computer, plus how to save your contacts. That way, a hacked account never means losing everything.

Read: Back Up Your Email Using Thunderbird

-

I

I'm Told to Change My Password. Why?
Is your password "in the wild"?

If you get a warning that your password has leaked, don't panic, but don't ignore it, either. I'll talk about the difference between a real password breach and a scam, why passwords are risky once exposed "in the wild", and the habit that keeps you safe no matter what.

Read: I'm Told to Change My Password. Why?

Ask Leo! Tip of the Day

For Bronze patrons of Ask Leo!

TEH Podcast

TEH Podcast

Find the latest episode here.

Ask Leo! on YouTube

Subscribe to Ask Leo! on YouTube.

Why Are There So Many Jerks Online?

Are people are getting ruder online? You're not imagining the jerks, but you might be missing the bigger picture. I'll discuss why the internet doesn't really create more jerks, and why the good people around you still outnumber them by a mile.

Watch: Why Are There So Many Jerks Online?


I'm Told to Change My Password. Why?

If you get a warning that your password has leaked, don't panic, but don't ignore it, either. I'll talk about the difference between a real password breach and a scam, why passwords are risky once exposed "in the wild", and the habit that keeps you safe no matter what.

Watch: I'm Told to Change My Password. Why?


Back Up Your Email Using Thunderbird

If your email only lives in your inbox online, it's not backed up. I'll show you how to use a free program to download a full copy of your email to your own computer, plus how to save your contacts. That way, a hacked account never means losing everything.

Watch: Back Up Your Email Using Thunderbird


What's the Best Two-Factor Authentication Method?

Not all two-factor authentication works the same way. Some methods are more secure, some are more convenient, and some leave you open to sneaky attacks like SIM swapping. Here's my breakdown of hardware keys, authenticator apps, texts, email, and voice codes so you can pick what fits you best.

Watch: What's the Best Two-Factor Authentication Method?


How Do I Recover My Outlook Account?

Whether you forgot your password, got hacked, or can't verify your identity while traveling, I'll point you to the steps to try if you're locked out of your Microsoft account.

Watch: How Do I Recover My Outlook Account?


 

The post #1139 – What’s the Best Two-Factor Authentication Method? appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

]]> #1138 – What’s Better, NAS or Cloud Storage? https://newsletter.askleo.com/1138-whats-better-nas-or-cloud-storage/ Tue, 08 Sep 2026 15:00:51 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9445 What's Better, NAS or Cloud Storage?

The post #1138 – What’s Better, NAS or Cloud Storage? appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

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Technology With Confidence - - - - - - - -               Confident Computing from Ask Leo! - Be sure to allow image display for the best viewing
#1138 - What's Better, NAS or Cloud Storage?

Problems viewing? Read online: https://newsletter.askleo.com/current-newsletter/
Newsletter FAQ & administration Answers to all your subscription and newsletter questions.
All the ways to Support Ask Leo!
 

One of the less pleasant aspects of doing Ask Leo! for over 23 years, and having a newsletter for nearly 21 of those years, is that occasionally a subscriber will pass away. This week I recieved news that long time subscriber Dean Simes in Australia passed away at the age of 102.

Dean was special for a couple of reasons. To begin with, he was a clear example of "you're never too old for tech". His son passed along a news report from earlier this year: At 102 years old, Dean Simes might be Australia's oldest tech-help guy. Absolutely fantastic.

Dean's also one of the few readers I've met in person. When I travelled to Australia some years ago, he joined a small reader meetup outside a Sydney Starbucks. We did capture a photo: Sydney Meet-Up.

Life's transitions are inevitable, I know, but some seem to hit harder. Dean was a wonderful example, and his is a legacy I aspire to.

Take care,

Leo

-

This Week on Ask Leo!

What

What's Better, NAS or Cloud Storage?
Not better. Complementary.

NAS or cloud? Each has real strengths and real risks, and a recent story about a broadcaster losing 50TB of archives shows what can go wrong. I'll detail pros and cons for each and show how combining both keeps your data safer than relying on just one.

Read: What's Better, NAS or Cloud Storage?

-

What Security Software Do You Recommend? (2026 Q3 update)

What Security Software Do You Recommend? (2026 Q3 update)
Basic protection in four steps.

My updated guide cuts through the hype with four no-nonsense steps to keep your PC safe. Learn what works, what to avoid, and how to stay secure without overspending or overcomplicating.

Read: What Security Software Do You Recommend? (2026 Q3 update)

-

If Too Many Bad Password Attempts Cause Account Locks, How Do Hackers Hack In?

If Too Many Bad Password Attempts Cause Account Locks, How Do Hackers Hack In?
They use the back door.

Ever wonder why hackers don't get locked out after a few failed password attempts, the way you do? It turns out they rarely even try. I'll describe the sneakier "back door" methods -- data breaches, malware, and phishing -- that hackers use to break into accounts, and what you can do to stop them.

Read: If Too Many Bad Password Attempts Cause Account Locks, How Do Hackers Hack In?

-

Why Don

Why Don't I Get Sound From My Computer?
A 12-step checklist.

Computer gone silent? Here's a checklist to get your sound working again in minutes.

Read: Why Don't I Get Sound From My Computer?

-

Should I Avoid Windows Update? It Burned Me

Should I Avoid Windows Update? It Burned Me
Only if you like living even more dangerously.

A bad Windows Update can cripple your computer. Once it happens to you, it's tempting to swear off updates forever. I'll explain why that's the wrong move, and share one habit that makes any update failure, from Windows or anything else, easy to recover from.

Read: Should I Avoid Windows Update? It Burned Me

Ask Leo! Tip of the Day

For Bronze patrons of Ask Leo!

TEH Podcast

TEH Podcast

Find the latest episode here.

Ask Leo! on YouTube

Subscribe to Ask Leo! on YouTube.

Should I Avoid Windows Update? It Burned Me

A bad Windows Update can cripple your computer. Once it happens to you, it's tempting to swear off updates forever. I'll explain why that's the wrong move, and share one habit that makes any update failure, from Windows or anything else, easy to recover from.

Watch: Should I Avoid Windows Update? It Burned Me


Why Don't I Get Sound From My Computer?

Computer gone silent? Here's a checklist to get your sound working again in minutes.

Watch: Why Don't I Get Sound From My Computer?


If Too Many Bad Password Attempts Cause Account Locks, How Do Hackers Hack In?

Ever wonder why hackers don't get locked out after a few failed password attempts, the way you do? It turns out they rarely even try. I'll describe the sneakier "back door" methods -- data breaches, malware, and phishing -- that hackers use to break into accounts, and what you can do to stop them.

Watch: If Too Many Bad Password Attempts Cause Account Locks, How Do Hackers Hack In?


What's Better, NAS or Cloud Storage?

NAS or cloud? Each has real strengths and real risks, and a recent story about a broadcaster losing 50TB of archives shows what can go wrong. I'll detail pros and cons for each and show how combining both keeps your data safer than relying on just one.

Watch: What's Better, NAS or Cloud Storage?


What Security Software Do You Recommend? (2026 Q3 update)

My updated guide cuts through the hype with four no-nonsense steps to keep your PC safe. Learn what works, what to avoid, and how to stay secure without overspending or overcomplicating.

Watch: What Security Software Do You Recommend? (2026 Q3 update)


 

The post #1138 – What’s Better, NAS or Cloud Storage? appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

]]> #1137 – How Often Should I Scan My Computer for Malware? https://newsletter.askleo.com/1137-how-often-should-i-scan-my-computer-for-malware/ Tue, 01 Sep 2026 19:46:29 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9443 How Often Should I Scan My Computer for Malware?

The post #1137 – How Often Should I Scan My Computer for Malware? appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

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Technology With Confidence - - - - - - - -               Confident Computing from Ask Leo! - Be sure to allow image display for the best viewing
#1137 - How Often Should I Scan My Computer for Malware?

Problems viewing? Read online: https://newsletter.askleo.com/current-newsletter/
Newsletter FAQ & administration Answers to all your subscription and newsletter questions.
All the ways to Support Ask Leo!
 

This Week on Ask Leo!

How Often Should I Scan My Computer for Malware?

How Often Should I Scan My Computer for Malware?
You? Rarely. Your system? Constantly.

Find out when a manual scan makes sense, and how often you should run one for peace of mind.

Read: How Often Should I Scan My Computer for Malware?

-

Will Ransomware Encrypt Backups?

Will Ransomware Encrypt Backups?
How to protect yourself in case they do.

Worried that ransomware could sneak past your defenses and encrypt your backups? Most ransomware won't, but it's not impossible. I'll discuss how ransomware picks its targets, why your backup image files are usually safe, and one simple habit to keep your files protected.

Read: Will Ransomware Encrypt Backups?

-

How Do I Make Sure I Don

How Do I Make Sure I Don't Have Malware?
An important answer you need to understand.

The hard truth is that you can never fully prove your computer is malware free... but you can still stack the odds in your favor. I'll discuss why, the habits that keep you safer online, and what to do if something slips through.

Read: How Do I Make Sure I Don't Have Malware?

-

Facebook Hacked? What You Need to Do NOW!

Facebook Hacked? What You Need to Do NOW!
Move quickly.

Facebook account hacks happen. Here's how to recover access, lock down your password and recovery info, warn your friends, and protect yourself from it happening again.

Read: Facebook Hacked? What You Need to Do NOW!

-

How Do I Fix Windows Update?

How Do I Fix Windows Update?
Several things to try.

Windows Update can get stuck, and it's rarely obvious why. I'll walk you through Microsoft's troubleshooter, and provide a full manual reset using command line tools, so you can get your updates flowing again.

Read: How Do I Fix Windows Update?

-

Ask Leo! Tip of the Day

For Bronze patrons of Ask Leo!

TEH Podcast

TEH Podcast

Find the latest episode here.

Ask Leo! on YouTube

Subscribe to Ask Leo! on YouTube.


 

The post #1137 – How Often Should I Scan My Computer for Malware? appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

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