Confident Computing – by Ask Leo! https://newsletter.askleo.com/ Technology in terms you understand Sun, 14 Jun 2026 13:14:54 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0 https://newsletter.askleo.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/al320new.jpg Confident Computing – by Ask Leo! https://newsletter.askleo.com/ 32 32 #1126 – How Do I Stop Spam? https://newsletter.askleo.com/1126-how-do-i-stop-spam/ Tue, 16 Jun 2026 15:00:44 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9413 How Do I Stop Spam?

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#1126 - How Do I Stop Spam?

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I'm working on an update to my Internet Safety ebook for release later this year. (FYI: if you've already got a copy you'll automatically get the update on your My Account page when it releases.) It's been a couple of years since the last one. It's been interesting to note what has, and what has not changed over that time. Yup, I'm having to add a chapter or two on AI, for one thing.

Do you have a security habit or trick you wish more people knew about? Something you've not seen here on Ask Leo!? Hit reply and let me know ... perhaps it'll show up in the update (with attribution, no less Smile).

Take care,

Leo

-

This Week on Ask Leo!

How Do I Stop Spam?

How Do I Stop Spam?
You can't, but you can manage it.

Drowning in 300 junk emails a day? You can't stop spam completely, but you don't have to suffer, either. I'll cover why blocking and unsubscribing make things worse, and share one simple habit that trains your inbox to clean itself.

Read: How Do I Stop Spam?

-

If It

If It's in Only One Place, It's Not Backed Up
A story of data loss.

An external drive stopped working, and important files lived on it. One simple habit can keep you from ever facing loss like this.

Read: If It's in Only One Place, It's Not Backed Up

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Am I Sending Spam?

Am I Sending Spam?
You may not think you are, but others may feel differently.

Wondering why your promo emails go unanswered? There is a good chance they are going straight into spam folders. I'll describe three things that make your emails look like spam, and what you can do to fix them.

Read: Am I Sending Spam?

-

Why Is "Back Up First" Your Recommendation for Everything?

Why Is "Back Up First" Your Recommendation for Everything?
Because I want you to have a safety net.

Why do I recommend backing up before almost everything? A complete system image backup is much more than lost-file insurance. It's the closest thing to a silver security bullet for your computer.

Read: Why Is "Back Up First" Your Recommendation for Everything?

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Please Set Up and Maintain Account Recovery Information

Please Set Up and Maintain Account Recovery Information
Without it, you risk losing your account forever.

Locked out of an account for good? It happens more often than you think, and it's almost always avoidable. I'll explain the steps you can take today to make sure you're never permanently shut out.

Read: Please Set Up and Maintain Account Recovery Information

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Why Is "Back Up First" Your Recommendation for Everything?

Why do I recommend backing up before almost everything? A complete system image backup is much more than lost-file insurance. It's the closest thing to a silver security bullet for your computer.

Watch: Why Is "Back Up First" Your Recommendation for Everything?


If It's in Only One Place, It's Not Backed Up

An external drive stopped working, and important files lived on it. One simple habit can keep you from ever facing loss like this.

Watch: If It's in Only One Place, It's Not Backed Up


Please Set Up and Maintain Account Recovery Information

Locked out of an account for good? It happens more often than you think, and it's almost always avoidable. I'll explain the steps you can take today to make sure you're never permanently shut out.

Watch: Please Set Up and Maintain Account Recovery Information


How Do I Stop Spam?

Drowning in 300 junk emails a day? You can't stop spam completely, but you don't have to suffer, either. I'll cover why blocking and unsubscribing make things worse, and share one simple habit that trains your inbox to clean itself.

Watch: How Do I Stop Spam?


Am I Sending Spam?

Wondering why your promo emails go unanswered? There is a good chance they are going straight into spam folders. I'll describe three things that make your emails look like spam, and what you can do to fix them.

Watch: Am I Sending Spam?


 

The post #1126 – How Do I Stop Spam? appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

]]> #1125 – End-to-End Encryption Was Removed From Instagram. Should You Care? https://newsletter.askleo.com/1125-end-to-end-encryption-was-removed-from-instagram-should-you-care/ Tue, 09 Jun 2026 15:00:36 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9411 End-to-End Encryption Was Removed From Instagram. Should You Care?

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#1125 - End-to-End Encryption Was Removed From Instagram. Should You Care?

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Just a quick reminder that I also have two other non-tech related projects, each with their own newsletter:

  • Not All News is Bad: My project to remind myself that there's still so much good in the world: one positive news item in your inbox every day.
  • 7 Takeaways: My project to ensure I read something of quality every day as opposed to doom-scrolling. "Something of substance every day, collected weekly."

Take care,

Leo

-

This Week on Ask Leo!

End-to-End Encryption Was Removed From Instagram. Should You Care?

End-to-End Encryption Was Removed From Instagram. Should You Care?
You probably weren't using it anyway (even if you thought you were).

Instagram just killed its encrypted DMs. But here's the real story: most people never had it turned on to begin with. If you care about keeping your conversations private, I'll share which apps I recommend.

Read: End-to-End Encryption Was Removed From Instagram. Should You Care?

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How Do I Update Drivers on My Computer?

How Do I Update Drivers on My Computer?
First, make sure you need to.

Device drivers are behind-the-scenes software that make your hardware work. I'll discuss the right way to update drivers and explain why to avoid driver update services.

Read: How Do I Update Drivers on My Computer?

-

Why Won

Why Won't My Computer Wake Up From Sleep?
A common issue, even after all this time.

Your computer goes to sleep just fine, but waking it up? Sometimes it comes back without a hitch. Other times, the screen stays dark and nothing works. I'll discuss why sleep mode can be unreliable and what you can do about it.

Read: Why Won't My Computer Wake Up From Sleep?

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You Can

You Can't Un-Ring a Bell: What Really Happens to Your Data When You Post Anything Online
Copies. So many copies.

The moment you hit Post, copies of what you shared start spreading. Marking it private won't stop it. Deleting it won't fix it. I'll describe what happens to everything you put online, and why it matters.

Read: You Can't Un-Ring a Bell: What Really Happens to Your Data When You Post Anything Online

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Your Password May Not Be Used to Encrypt Your Data, and That

Your Password May Not Be Used to Encrypt Your Data, and That's Okay
Encryption may not work the way you think it does. And that's okay.

There's a surprising and counterintuitive technique related to how some encryption tools work: your password is not what locks your data. I'll describe what keeps your data secure and why changing your password doesn't always mean re-encrypting all your data.

Read: Your Password May Not Be Used to Encrypt Your Data, and That's Okay

Ask Leo! Tip of the Day

For Bronze patrons of Ask Leo!

TEH Podcast

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Find the latest episode here.

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You Can't Un-Ring a Bell: What Really Happens to Your Data When You Post Anything Online

The moment you hit Post, copies of what you shared start spreading. Marking it private won't stop it. Deleting it won't fix it. I'll describe what really happens to everything you put online, and why it matters.

Watch: You Can't Un-Ring a Bell: What Really Happens to Your Data When You Post Anything Online


Why Won't My Computer Wake Up From Sleep?

Your computer goes to sleep just fine, but waking it up? Sometimes it comes back without a hitch. Other times, the screen stays dark and nothing works. I'll discuss why sleep mode can be unreliable and what you can do about it.

Watch: Why Won't My Computer Wake Up From Sleep?


Your Password May Not Be Used to Encrypt Your Data and That's Ok

There's a surprising and counterintuitive technique related to how some encryption tools work: your password is not what locks your data. I'll describe what keeps your data secure and why changing your password doesn't always mean re-encrypting all your data.

Watch: Your Password May Not Be Used to Encrypt Your Data and That's Ok


End-to-End Encryption Was Removed From Instagram. Should You Care?

Instagram just killed its encrypted DMs. But here's the real story: most people never had it turned on to begin with. If you care about keeping your conversations private, I'll share which apps I recommend.

Watch: End-to-End Encryption Was Removed From Instagram. Should You Care?


How Do I Update Drivers on My Computer?

Device drivers are behind-the-scenes software that make your hardware work. I'll discuss the right way to update drivers and explain why to avoid driver update services.

Watch: How Do I Update Drivers on My Computer?


 

The post #1125 – End-to-End Encryption Was Removed From Instagram. Should You Care? appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

]]> #1124 – Mythos About Mythos https://newsletter.askleo.com/1124-mythos-about-mythos/ Tue, 02 Jun 2026 15:00:38 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9409 Mythos About Mythos

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#1124 - Mythos About Mythos

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JUNEBUG is the 20% discount code for the month of June. Use it on any purchase in The Ask Leo! Store. My way of saying "thank you" for being a newsletter subscriber.

Can I share a pet peeve with you? Based on the reaction when I posted it on Facebook, I suspect it'll resonate with you. Every interaction in my life does not require being pestered to take a follow-up survey.

There. I feel better now. Smile

Take care,

Leo

-

This Week on Ask Leo!

Mythos About Mythos

Mythos About Mythos
A sign of things to come.

A new AI just found thousands of security vulnerabilities in nearly every major operating system, and its maker decided the world wasn't ready for it. What does that mean for you?

Read: Mythos About Mythos

-

Are You Ready for Your Computer to Be Stolen?

Are You Ready for Your Computer to Be Stolen?
Or lost?

Losing a computer to theft or loss isn't just an inconvenience. Your personal data could end up in the wrong hands. I'll describe what steps to take now so that if your device disappears, your data stays safe and your recovery is quick.

Read: Are You Ready for Your Computer to Be Stolen?

-

How Do I Secure a Hard Drive Before Sending It in for Repair?

How Do I Secure a Hard Drive Before Sending It in for Repair?
How to keep private things private.

When your computer goes to the shop, can you trust a stranger with your personal files? I'll share how to keep your data safe before handing your machine over, and what your options are when it's too late.

Read: How Do I Secure a Hard Drive Before Sending It in for Repair?

-

Yes, You Can Use the Cloud Safely -- Here

Yes, You Can Use the Cloud Safely -- Here's How
Protect your data and yourself.

Cloud storage is one of the most useful tools around, but it brings two real risks along for the ride.

Read: Yes, You Can Use the Cloud Safely -- Here's How

-

How Do I Change My Router

How Do I Change My Router's Password?
It depends.

Your router's default password might as well be no password at all. Changing it is an important step you can take to secure your home network. I'll show you how to find your router's settings and lock it down with a strong password.

Read: How Do I Change My Router's Password?

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

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Yes, You Can Use the Cloud Safely ' Here's How

Cloud storage is one of the most useful tools around, but it brings two real risks along for the ride.

Watch: Yes, You Can Use the Cloud Safely ' Here's How


How Do I Secure a Hard Drive Before Sending It in for Repair?

When your computer goes to the shop, can you trust a stranger with your personal files? I'll share how to keep your data safe before handing your machine over, and what your options are when it's too late.

Watch: How Do I Secure a Hard Drive Before Sending It in for Repair?


How Do I Change My Router's Password?

Your router's default password might as well be no password at all. Changing it is an important step you can take to secure your home network. I'll show you how to find your router's settings and lock it down with a strong password.

Watch: How Do I Change My Router's Password?


Mythos About Mythos

A new AI just found thousands of security vulnerabilities in nearly every major operating system, and its maker decided the world wasn't ready for it. What does that mean for you?

Watch: Mythos About Mythos


Are You Ready for Your Computer to Be Stolen?

Losing a computer to theft or loss isn't just an inconvenience. Your personal data could end up in the wrong hands. I'll describe what steps to take now so that if your device disappears, your data stays safe and your recovery is quick.

Watch: Are You Ready for Your Computer to Be Stolen?


 

The post #1124 – Mythos About Mythos appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

]]> #1123 – Has BitLocker Been Broken? What YellowKey Means to You https://newsletter.askleo.com/1123-has-bitlocker-been-broken-what-yellowkey-means-to-you/ Tue, 26 May 2026 15:00:43 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9407 Has BitLocker Been Broken? What YellowKey Means to You

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#1123 - Has BitLocker Been Broken? What YellowKey Means to You

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For those so inclined, I just finished my course Linux for Everyone. If you've been waiting to check it out, now's the time. If you've been considering a purchase, I'd do that soon too, as now that it's complete it'll go back to its regular price on June 1st.

If you're frustrated with Microsoft (and who isn't these days?) and are considering Linux, this'll show you what that's all about and help you through the process -- Ask Leo! style. Smile

Take care,

Leo

-

This Week on Ask Leo!

Has BitLocker Been Broken? What YellowKey Means to You

Has BitLocker Been Broken? What YellowKey Means to You
It's complicated, but important to understand.

A security researcher just showed that bypassing BitLocker on Windows 11 takes little more than a USB stick and a reboot. I'll discuss what we know, who needs to worry, what the risks are for most people, and what you can do about it right now.

Read: Has BitLocker Been Broken? What YellowKey Means to You

-

What Good Is an Image If I Can

What Good Is an Image If I Can't Restore an Old Backup to a New Computer?
There's more to life than new computers.

You're backing up regularly. Yay! But when you try to restore an image backup to a brand new PC, it doesn't go as planned. Image backups are good for many things, but not that.

Read: What Good Is an Image If I Can't Restore an Old Backup to a New Computer?

-

Does Deleting Browser History and Cache Really Delete Traces of My Webmail?

Does Deleting Browser History and Cache Really Delete Traces of My Webmail?
Yes and no. It depends on a few things.

Hitting "delete" on your browser history or emails doesn't mean they're gone for good. I'll cover what actually happens when you delete things, and what it really takes to make them disappear.

Read: Does Deleting Browser History and Cache Really Delete Traces of My Webmail?

-

How to Reduce Your Frustration with Technology

How to Reduce Your Frustration with Technology
There's a lot you can't control, but here's something you can.

Technology never stops changing, and your attitude affects how well technology works for you. I'll discus why accepting and even welcoming change might be the most useful tech skill you can develop.

Read: How to Reduce Your Frustration with Technology

-

Can Malware Reach My External Drive?

Can Malware Reach My External Drive?
Yes. But if you have malware, you have bigger problems.

Can hackers really get to everything, including your external hard drive? I'll cover what malware can do and what you need to do before it happens to you.

Read: Can Malware Reach My External Drive?

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.

How to Reduce Your Frustration with Technology

Technology never stops changing, and your attitude affects how well technology works for you. I'll discus why accepting and even welcoming change might be the most useful tech skill you can develop.

Watch: How to Reduce Your Frustration with Technology


Can Malware Reach My External Drive?

Can hackers really get to everything, including your external hard drive? I'll cover what malware can do and what you need to do before it happens to you.

Watch: Can Malware Reach My External Drive?


Does Deleting Browser History and Cache Really Delete Traces of My Webmail?

Hitting "delete" on your browser history or emails doesn't mean they're gone for good. I'll cover what actually happens when you delete things, and what it really takes to make them disappear.

Watch: Does Deleting Browser History and Cache Really Delete Traces of My Webmail?


Has BitLocker Been Broken? What Yellowkey Means to You

A security researcher just showed that bypassing BitLocker on Windows 11 takes little more than a USB stick and a reboot. I'll discuss what we know, exactly who needs to worry, what the practical risks are for most people, and what you can do about it right now.

Watch: Has BitLocker Been Broken? What Yellowkey Means to You


What Good Is an Image If I Can't Restore an Old Backup to a New Computer?

You're backing up regularly. Yay! But when you try to restore an image backup to a brand new PC, it doesn't go as planned. Image backups are good for many things, but not that.

Watch: What Good Is an Image If I Can't Restore an Old Backup to a New Computer?


 

The post #1123 – Has BitLocker Been Broken? What YellowKey Means to You appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

]]> #1122 – How to Share Two-factor Authentication to a Single Account With Multiple Users https://newsletter.askleo.com/1122-how-to-share-two-factor-authentication-to-a-single-account-with-multiple-users/ Tue, 19 May 2026 15:00:42 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9405 How to Share Two-factor Authentication to a Single Account With Multiple Users

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#1122 - How to Share Two-factor Authentication to a Single Account With Multiple Users

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Bitlocker broken? Not really, but kinda.

Just wanted to mention that, yes, I've heard the news about the Bitlocker "Yellow Key" exploit. I'll be writing more about it the coming weeks. As with so many things the headlines seem to overstate the practical reality. Yes, it's bad (and embarrassing), but from what I understand for most folks it's nothing to worry about yet. For now the TL;DR: is don't lose your Bitlocker-encrypted laptop.

As I mentioned in this week's 7 Takeaways, I sometimes wonder who used the apocryphal Chinese curse "may you live in interesting times" on us. Times have been too interesting for too long. A stretch of boring might be very welcome, but when it comes to technology it seems highly unlikely.

Take care,

Leo

-

This Week on Ask Leo!

How to Share Two-factor Authentication to a Single Account With Multiple Users

How to Share Two-factor Authentication to a Single Account With Multiple Users
It's possible to do securely.

Your team shares one account, but two-factor authentication keeps locking everyone out. There are real solutions to this problem, and they don't sacrifice security. I'll show you how to set up shared two-factor authentication so everyone can get in.

Read: How to Share Two-factor Authentication to a Single Account With Multiple Users

-

Have You Tried Turning It Off and On Again?

Have You Tried Turning It Off and On Again?
Why so many answers begin with a power cycle.

Tech support always says the same thing: "Have you tried rebooting?" It sounds lazy (and perhaps crazy), but there's a reason it works so often.

Read: Have You Tried Turning It Off and On Again?

-

What

What's the Best Password Manager in 2026?
Your choices are many, and that's a good thing.

Overwhelmed by too many password manager choices? I'll walk you through the best current options, what makes them different, and how to pick the one that fits you best.

Read: What's the Best Password Manager in 2026?

-

Which Cloud Backup Should I Use?

Which Cloud Backup Should I Use?
It depends on how and what you want to back up.

Cloud backup sounds good until you realize that most options only cover part of your data, and some aren't real backups at all. What works is a layered strategy that combines local image backups with cloud sync to keep your files safe no matter what happens.

Read: Which Cloud Backup Should I Use?

-

How Do I Report Spam to the Originating ISP?

How Do I Report Spam to the Originating ISP?
There may not be one.

Want to report spam to the ISP it came from? These days, spam comes from massive networks of hacked computers, not a single traceable server. I'll explain why reporting spam to what you think is the source of that spam is mostly a waste of time.

Read: How Do I Report Spam to the Originating ISP?

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's the Best Password Manager

Overwhelmed by too many password manager choices? I?ll walk you through the best current options, what makes them different, and how to pick the one that fits you best.

Watch: What's the Best Password Manager


How Do I Report Spam to the Originating ISP?

Want to report spam to the ISP it came from? These days, spam comes from massive networks of hacked computers, not a single traceable server. I'll explain why reporting spam to what you think is the source of that spam is mostly a waste of time.

Watch: How Do I Report Spam to the Originating ISP?


Which Cloud Backup Should I Use?

Cloud backup sounds good until you realize that most options only cover part of your data, and some aren't real backups at all. What works is a layered strategy that combines local image backups with cloud sync to keep your files safe no matter what happens.

Watch: Which Cloud Backup Should I Use?


How to Share Two-factor Authentication to a Single Account With Multiple Users

Your team shares one account, but two-factor authentication keeps locking everyone out. There are real solutions to this problem, and they don't sacrifice security. I'll show you how to set up shared two-factor authentication so everyone can get in.

Watch: How to Share Two-factor Authentication to a Single Account With Multiple Users


Have You Tried Turning It Off and On Again?

Tech support always says the same thing: "Have you tried rebooting?" It sounds lazy (and perhaps crazy), but there's a reason it works so often.

Watch: Have You Tried Turning It Off and On Again?


 

The post #1122 – How to Share Two-factor Authentication to a Single Account With Multiple Users appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

]]> #1121 – How Do I Know You’re Not AI? https://newsletter.askleo.com/1121-how-do-i-know-youre-not-ai/ Tue, 12 May 2026 15:00:07 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9403 How Do I Know You're Not AI?

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#1121 - How Do I Know You're Not AI?

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This week I buckled down and located something I thought I'd lost long ago: a collection of "Laws of Computing". I decided to post 'em here: The Laws of Computing. Yet another argument for backing up regularly. Smile

Take care,

Leo

-

This Week on Ask Leo!

How Do I Know You

How Do I Know You're Not AI?
You don't, but your concern shouldn't stop there.

Can you tell if this article was written by AI? You can't... but that might not be the right question. What really matters is whether you can trust the information.

Read: How Do I Know You're Not AI?

-

Why Don

Why Don't You Back Up Your Computer?
I have some theories.

If you don't back up, it's probably not because you're lazy. A disaster will get your attention fast, though. I'll dig into why backing up is so easy to ignore, why it shouldn't be, and what it would take to fix the problem.

Read: Why Don't You Back Up Your Computer?

-

AutoHotkey: Mouse and Keyboard Remapping, Macros, and Hotkeys

AutoHotkey: Mouse and Keyboard Remapping, Macros, and Hotkeys
A tool I use constantly throughout the day.

Typing the same email address dozens of times a day gets old fast. AutoHotkey is a free program that lets short key combos do your typing for you. I'll show you how I use it every day to make a few keystrokes replace long blocks of text.

Read: AutoHotkey: Mouse and Keyboard Remapping, Macros, and Hotkeys

-

The Most Important Skill

The Most Important Skill
If you're not skilled at this, you're going to fall behind.

Think the most important skill in tech is coding? Nope. Whether you're asking for help online, applying for a job, or using AI, writing and speaking English well matters more than you'd expect. I'll explain why it might be the most valuable skill of all.

Read: The Most Important Skill

-

How Do I Get Into My UEFI Settings?

How Do I Get Into My UEFI Settings?
It's easier than it used to be.

Need to change your boot order or check a startup setting? You'll need to get in to UEFI first. There are three ways to do it, and at least one of them works no matter what situation your computer is in. I'll show you how each one works.

Read: How Do I Get Into My UEFI Settings?

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 Most Important Skill

Think the most important skill in tech is coding? Nope. Whether you're asking for help online, applying for a job, or using AI, writing and speaking English well matters more than you'd expect. I'll explain why it might be the most valuable skill of all.

Watch: The Most Important Skill


AutoHotkey: Mouse and Keyboard Remapping, Macros, and Hotkeys

Typing the same email address dozens of times a day gets old fast. AutoHotkey is a free program that lets short key combos do your typing for you. I'll show you how I use it every day to make a few keystrokes replace long blocks of text.

Watch: AutoHotkey: Mouse and Keyboard Remapping, Macros, and Hotkeys


How Do I Get Into My UEFI Settings?

Need to change your boot order or check a startup setting? You'll need to get in to UEFI first. There are three ways to do it, and at least one of them works no matter what situation your computer is in. I'll show you how each one works.

Watch: How Do I Get Into My UEFI Settings?


How Do I Know You're Not AI?

Can you tell if this article was written by AI? You can't... but that might not be the right question. What really matters is whether you can trust the information.

Watch: How Do I Know You're Not AI?


Why Don't You Back Up Your Computer?

If you don't back up, it's probably not because you're lazy. A disaster will get your attention fast, though. I'll dig into why backing up is so easy to ignore, why it shouldn't be, and what it would take to fix the problem.

Watch: Why Don't You Back Up Your Computer?


 

The post #1121 – How Do I Know You’re Not AI? appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

]]> #1120 – What Is “Mailer-Daemon” and Why Is It Sending Me Email? https://newsletter.askleo.com/1120-what-is-mailer-daemon-and-why-is-it-sending-me-email/ Tue, 05 May 2026 15:00:13 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9401 What Is "Mailer-Daemon" and Why Is It Sending Me Email?

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#1120 - What Is "Mailer-Daemon" and Why Is It Sending Me Email?

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The truth is that Ask Leo! is really just a massive FAQ. Smile That's certainly how it started: I get asked questions, I write up an answer, and I don't have to answer that question again, I can just point people at the article online.

Even within a FAQ, though, some questions are asked more frequently than others, and I find myself referring to certain articles more often than others. I use a list for my own quick reference that you might find useful at times: My most referenced articles. I visit that page to copy a link often.

In other news, the coupon code for May is: MAYMAY. 20% of at the Ask Leo! Store as my way of saying thank you for subcribing.

Onward!

Leo

-

This Week on Ask Leo!

What Is "Mailer-Daemon" and Why Is It Sending Me Email?

What Is "Mailer-Daemon" and Why Is It Sending Me Email?
It's a friendly helper.

Get an email "from" mailer-daemon? There's a good reason this mysterious sender keeps showing up.

Read: What Is "Mailer-Daemon" and Why Is It Sending Me Email?

-

What

What's My IP Address?
The information exposed to every website you visit.

You might be sharing more than you think when you visit a website. Your IP address, your browser details, and even what you searched for to get there is all visible. I'll explain what websites see when you show up and why it matters.

Read: What's My IP Address?

-

How Two-Factor Authentication Works and Why You Need It Right Now

How Two-Factor Authentication Works and Why You Need It Right Now
It keeps hackers out.

Your password alone might not be enough to keep hackers out. Two-factor authentication adds a second layer of protection that stops intruders even when they know your password. I'll explain how it works, why you need it, and how to set it up without making your daily log-in a hassle.

Read: How Two-Factor Authentication Works and Why You Need It Right Now

-

Should I Download Windows 10 Updates?

Should I Download Windows 10 Updates?
Oh, yes.

Windows 10 is past its end-of-support date, so why does Windows Update keep delivering updates? And should you keep taking them? My answer is a definite yes, and the reasons are more important than you might think.

Read: Should I Download Windows 10 Updates?

-

Recognizing and Avoiding Dark Patterns

Recognizing and Avoiding Dark Patterns
The dark side plays tricks.

Dark patterns are sneaky design tricks built to work against you. I'll break down some of the most common and show you what to watch for before you click.

Read: Recognizing and Avoiding Dark Patterns

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.

Recognizing and Avoiding Dark Patterns

Dark patterns are sneaky design tricks built to work against you. I'll break down some of the most common and show you what to watch for before you click.

Watch: Recognizing and Avoiding Dark Patterns


What's My IP Address?

You might be sharing more than you think when you visit a website. Your IP address, your browser details, and even what you searched for to get there is all visible. I'll explain what websites see when you show up and why it matters.

Watch: What's My IP Address?


Should I Download Windows 10 Updates?

Windows 10 is past its end-of-support date, so why does Windows Update keep delivering updates? And should you keep taking them? My answer is a definite yes, and the reasons are more important than you might think.

Watch: Should I Download Windows 10 Updates?


What Is "Mailer-Daemon" and Why Is It Sending Me Email?

Get an email "from" mailer-daemon? There's a good reason this mysterious sender keeps showing up.

Watch: What Is "Mailer-Daemon" and Why Is It Sending Me Email?


How Two-Factor Authentication Works and Why You Need It Right Now

Your password alone might not be enough to keep hackers out. Two-factor authentication adds a second layer of protection that stops intruders even when they know your password. I'll explain how it works, why you need it, and how to set it up without making your daily log-in a hassle.

Watch: How Two-Factor Authentication Works and Why You Need It Right Now


 

The post #1120 – What Is “Mailer-Daemon” and Why Is It Sending Me Email? appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

]]> #1119 – How I Use AI at Ask Leo! https://newsletter.askleo.com/1119-how-i-use-ai-at-ask-leo/ Tue, 28 Apr 2026 15:00:46 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9398 How I Use AI at Ask Leo!

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#1119 - How I Use AI at Ask Leo!

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Newsletter FAQ & administration Answers to all your subscription and newsletter questions.
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On most Fridays I make it a habit to head out to a local brewpub (this one or this one) and hang out with friends over a couple of beers. Yes, technology is great and all that, but there's truly no substitute for that in-person experience. Not even AI will replace that. After the last few years of, well, everything, that I find myself saying "I need to be around people for a while" always surprises me, particularly since I identify as a hard core introvert.

Sometimes I even get to take Maxine with me. No beer for her, of course, but there are always treats and pets.

I hope you have a good week,

Leo

-

This Week on Ask Leo!

How I Use AI at Ask Leo!

How I Use AI at Ask Leo!
It's my fast (but unreliable) intern.

Wonder whether an AI has written the articles you read online -- like this one? The answer at Ask Leo! is no, but AI does play a role. Here's a behind-the-scenes look at how AI helps me, where it falls short, and what a real human -- me -- still does.

Read: How I Use AI at Ask Leo!

-

How Two-Factor Authentication Works and Why You Need It Right Now

How Two-Factor Authentication Works and Why You Need It Right Now
It keeps hackers out.

Your password alone might not be enough to keep hackers out. Two-factor authentication adds a second layer of protection that stops intruders even when they know your password. I'll explain how it works, why you need it, and how to set it up without making your daily log-in a hassle.

Read: How Two-Factor Authentication Works and Why You Need It Right Now

-

Is It Safe to Let Your Browser Remember Passwords?

Is It Safe to Let Your Browser Remember Passwords?
The risk that's often overlooked.

Letting your browser remember passwords is convenient. With that convenience comes significant risk. Most folks are much better served by using a password vault.

Read: Is It Safe to Let Your Browser Remember Passwords?

-

My Computer Has Started to Shut Down Randomly. Could It Be the Fan?

My Computer Has Started to Shut Down Randomly. Could It Be the Fan?

Your computer keeps shutting down and is telling you "Over Temperature." The culprit might be hiding in plain sight: dust and pet hair. I'll show you how those innocent-looking dust bunnies can kill a computer, and what to do about it.

Read: My Computer Has Started to Shut Down Randomly. Could It Be the Fan?

-

How Can I Pin "Restart" to My Taskbar?

How Can I Pin "Restart" to My Taskbar?
It can be a single click away.

I'll show you how to put a one-click restart button right on your taskbar. The skills you'll pick up along the way are useful far beyond restarting.

Read: How Can I Pin "Restart" to My Taskbar?

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.

My Computer Has Started to Shut Down Randomly. Could It Be the Fan?

Your computer keeps shutting down and is telling you "Over Temperature." The culprit might be hiding in plain sight: dust and pet hair. I'll show you how those innocent-looking dust bunnies can kill a computer, and what to do about it.

Watch: My Computer Has Started to Shut Down Randomly. Could It Be the Fan?


How Can I Pin "Restart" to My Taskbar?

I'll show you how to put a one-click restart button right on your taskbar. The skills you'll pick up along the way are useful far beyond restarting.

Watch: How Can I Pin "Restart" to My Taskbar?


How Should I Wipe My Windows Hard Drive Before Giving It Away?

Giving away your old computer is a great idea, but handing over your personal data along with it is not. I'll show you the difference between a wipe that works and one that just looks like it does.

Watch: How Should I Wipe My Windows Hard Drive Before Giving It Away?


How I Use AI at Ask Leo!

Wonder whether an AI has written the articles you read online -- like this one? The answer at Ask Leo! is no, but AI does play a role. Here's a behind-the-scenes look at how AI helps me, where it falls short, and what a real human -- me -- still does.

Watch: How I Use AI at Ask Leo!


Is It Safe to Let Your Browser Remember Passwords?

Letting your browser remember passwords is convenient. With that convenience comes significant risk. Most folks are much better served by using a password vault.

Watch: Is It Safe to Let Your Browser Remember Passwords?


 

The post #1119 – How I Use AI at Ask Leo! appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

]]> #1118 – Why Can’t I Paste a Password Into This Site’s Password Field? https://newsletter.askleo.com/1118-why-cant-i-paste-a-password-into-this-sites-password-field/ Tue, 21 Apr 2026 15:00:05 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9392 Why Can't I Paste a Password Into This Site's Password Field?

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#1118 - Why Can't I Paste a Password Into This Site's Password Field?

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I had the privilege of presenting to the Sun City Center Computer Club recently about Windows 10, end of support, and similar topics. They graciously allowed me to record the session; you'll find it listed below as an extra item this week.

I'm also closing in on completion of my Linux for Everyone course.

The two (Windows 10 end of support, and my Linux course) aren't really related, and yet they are. There's been a lot of interest expressed in in Linux in recent months for a variety of reasons. If you've been "Linux curious", the course may help you decide, or even switch. It's 95% complete, so you still have a chance to influence what else I might add to it. Smile

I hope you have a good week,

Leo

This Week on Ask Leo!

Why Can

Why Can't I Paste a Password Into This Site's Password Field?
A case of misguided security.

You've got a password manager and you've done everything right. Then you encounter some website that won't let you paste your password. It's maddening. And here's the kicker: whoever designed it that way actually made the site *less* secure.

Read: Why Can't I Paste a Password Into This Site's Password Field?

-

How Do I Hack Someone

How Do I Hack Someone's Account? How Do I Hack My Own?
Tempting as it might be, don't.

Someone's cheating on you, or maybe you just lost access to your own account. Either way, you want to hack in. Before you go looking for help in all the wrong places, let me share the truth about hacking accounts.

Read: How Do I Hack Someone's Account? How Do I Hack My Own?

-

Should I Set Up Two Partitions on My Hard Disk?

Should I Set Up Two Partitions on My Hard Disk?
Maybe.

Does splitting your hard drive into two partitions make your computer faster and backups easier? I'll share my opinion on what partitioning really does and doesn't do, and what works better.

Read: Should I Set Up Two Partitions on My Hard Disk?

-

Is It Safe to Let Your Browser Remember Passwords?

Is It Safe to Let Your Browser Remember Passwords?
The risk that's often overlooked.

Letting your browser remember passwords is convenient. With that convenience comes significant risk. Most folks are much better served by using a password vault.

Read: Is It Safe to Let Your Browser Remember Passwords?

-

Why Can

Why Can't I Change My Email Address at Some Online Providers?
Bad decisions and bad programming, that's why.

Your email address changed, but the website where you have an account won't let you update it. Now what?

Read: Why Can't I Change My Email Address at Some Online Providers?

-

How Do I Clear Cookies for Just One Site?

How Do I Clear Cookies for Just One Site?
Taming misbehaving sites.

A website you use keeps misbehaving. Clearing cookies might fix it, but you don't want to lose your sign-ins everywhere else. Good news: your browser lets you clear cookies for just one site. I'll show you how.

Read: How Do I Clear Cookies for Just One Site?

-

What Does Windows 10 End of Support Really Mean?

What Does Windows 10 End of Support Really Mean?
A recorded presentation to the Sun City Center Computer Club

I was honored to have the opportunity to speak to the members of the Sun City Center Computer Club about Windows 10, as well as a smattering of additional topics.

Read: What Does Windows 10 End of Support Really Mean?

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.

Is It Safe to Let Your Browser Remember Passwords?

Letting your browser remember passwords is convenient. With that convenience comes significant risk. Most folks are much better served by using a password vault.

Watch: Is It Safe to Let Your Browser Remember Passwords?


Should I Set Up Two Partitions on My Hard Disk?

Does splitting your hard drive into two partitions makes your computer faster and backups easier? I'll share my opinion on what partitioning really does and doesn't do, and what works better.

Watch: Should I Set Up Two Partitions on My Hard Disk?


How Do I Clear Cookies for Just One Site?

A website you use keeps misbehaving. Clearing cookies might fix it, but you don't want to lose your sign-ins everywhere else. Good news: your browser lets you clear cookies for just one site. I'll show you how.

Watch: How Do I Clear Cookies for Just One Site?


Why Can't I Change My Email Address at Some Online Providers?

Your email address changed, but the website where you have an account won't let you update it. Now what?

Watch: Why Can't I Change My Email Address at Some Online Providers?


What Does Windows 10 End of Support Really Mean

A presentation to the Sun City Center Computer Club - https://www.scccomputerclub.org/

Watch: What Does Windows 10 End of Support Really Mean


Why Can't I Paste a Password Into This Site's Password Field?

You've got a password manager and you've done everything right. Then you encounter some website that won't let you paste your password. It's maddening. And here's the kicker: whoever designed it that way actually made the site *less* secure.

Watch: Why Can't I Paste a Password Into This Site's Password Field?


How Do I Hack Someone's Account? How Do I Hack My Own?

Someone's cheating on you, or maybe you just lost access to your own account. Either way, you want to hack in. Before you go looking for help in all the wrong places, let me share the truth about hacking accounts.

Watch: How Do I Hack Someone's Account? How Do I Hack My Own?


 

The post #1118 – Why Can’t I Paste a Password Into This Site’s Password Field? appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

]]> #1117 – Set Up Windows 11 With Only a Local Account – Still Working in 2026 https://newsletter.askleo.com/1117-set-up-windows-11-with-only-a-local-account-still-working-in-2026/ Tue, 14 Apr 2026 15:00:17 +0000 https://newsletter.askleo.com/?p=9388 Set Up Windows 11 With Only a Local Account - Still Working in 2026

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#1117 - Set Up Windows 11 With Only a Local Account - Still Working in 2026

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!
 

In my reading/research for 7 Takeaways this week I came across an absolutely fascinating article: I Asked Claude Why It Won't Stop Flattering Me by Kristen French on a publication called Nautilus.

As the title implies, it's a) a "conversation" with the Claude AI chatbot, and b) it starts out addressing the reasons Claude, and presumably other AI's, love to flatter us. In reality the discussion goes much deeper, and I thought it was very insightful. It's something I recommend if you're at all interested in AI chatbots, and in particular if you're already having conversations with them.

I talk about it a tiny bit more in this week's 7 Takeaways, or you can just read the essay for yourself.

To quote Claude itself: "I have no stake in your actual well-being." That's something well worth remembering.

Have a good week,

Leo

This Week on Ask Leo!

Set Up Windows 11 With Only a Local Account - Still Working in 2026

Set Up Windows 11 With Only a Local Account - Still Working in 2026
It's possible, just well hidden.

Setting up Windows 11 without a Microsoft account is still possible.

Read: Set Up Windows 11 With Only a Local Account - Still Working in 2026

-

If Shutting Down Windows Cleanly Is So Important, What Happens When the Power Just Goes Out?

If Shutting Down Windows Cleanly Is So Important, What Happens When the Power Just Goes Out?
Usually nothing bad, but sometimes…

Power outages are a different problem than just flipping a switch, and your computer could pay the price.

Read: If Shutting Down Windows Cleanly Is So Important, What Happens When the Power Just Goes Out?

-

How Do I Run a Program "As Administrator"?

How Do I Run a Program "As Administrator"?
When you think you're the administrator, but you're not.

It's not trying to annoy you, it's an important part of keeping you safe. With an extra step or click, you can easily be the administrator when needed.

Read: How Do I Run a Program "As Administrator"?

-

How to Back Up Photos and Never Lose Them Again: the Steps You Need to Take

How to Back Up Photos and Never Lose Them Again: the Steps You Need to Take
Your photos are irreplaceable.

Your photos capture moments you can never get back, but one lost phone or crashed hard drive could wipe them out forever. Protecting them is easier than you think. Here's a simple plan to make sure your memories are never just one accident away from gone.

Read: How to Back Up Photos and Never Lose Them Again: the Steps You Need to Take

-

Should I Cover My Webcam When I

Should I Cover My Webcam When I'm Not Using It?
It does no harm, but is it really necessary?

Before you pull a "Zuck" and slap a sticky note over your camera, it's worth asking whether the threat is actually real.

Read: Should I Cover My Webcam When I'm Not Using It?

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 Cover My Webcam When I'm Not Using It?

Before you pull a "Zuck" and slap a sticky note over your camera, it's worth asking whether the threat is actually real.

Watch: Should I Cover My Webcam When I'm Not Using It?


How Do I Run a Program "As Administrator"?

It's not trying to annoy you, it's an important part of keeping you safe. With an extra step or click, you can easily be the administrator when needed.

Watch: How Do I Run a Program "As Administrator"?



How to Back Up Photos and Never Lose Them Again: the Steps You Need to Take

Your photos capture moments you can never get back, but one lost phone or crashed hard drive could wipe them out forever. Protecting them is easier than you think. Here's a simple plan to make sure your memories are never just one accident away from gone.

Watch: How to Back Up Photos and Never Lose Them Again: the Steps You Need to Take


 

The post #1117 – Set Up Windows 11 With Only a Local Account – Still Working in 2026 appeared first on Confident Computing - by Ask Leo!.

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