The Old Grey Techie - For Tips, Tricks & Techniques For Techies Of All Ages And Abilities

Creating your first database can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to the world of databases and data management.  Whether you’re building a database for personal use, a small business, or a larger organisation, following some key principles and best practices can make the process smoother and more efficient.  Here are the top 10 tips to guide you through building your first database.

Securing your computer against malware and other threats is more critical than ever.  While many users rely on a primary antivirus solution, having a backup antivirus like ClamWin can provide additional layers of security.  Here are the advantages to using  ClamWin  as an antivirus backup.

The recent global outages experienced by major tech giants Microsoft and CrowdStrike have highlighted the vulnerabilities inherent in our increasingly digital world.  As businesses and individuals alike face unprecedented disruptions, the discussion about the future of a cashless society has taken on new urgency. 

Vendor lock-in has long been a concern for businesses and individuals who rely on technology for their operations.  The recent global outages affecting major service providers like Microsoft and CrowdStrike have once again highlighted the vulnerabilities and risks associated with heavy dependence on a single vendor. 

The recent global outages affecting Microsoft and CrowdStrike have sent ripples through the technology community, highlighting the vulnerabilities even in the most robust systems.  As reliance on digital platforms grows, the need for comprehensive contingency plans becomes increasingly apparent.  This article will explore the significance of these outages, their impact on businesses, and the contingency strategies that users should consider implementing to mitigate future risks.

On 19 July 2024, a significant outage impacted multiple Microsoft services, including Outlook and OneDrive, leaving countless users around the globe unable to access their accounts or use these essential tools.  The disruption was traced back to a configuration error during a routine update, which led to widespread service interruptions.  While the issue was eventually resolved, the incident highlighted the vulnerabilities associated with relying heavily on a single provider for critical digital infrastructure.  This event, analysed by cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike, emphasises the urgent need to rethink our dependence on Microsoft products and consider the potential benefits of transitioning to open-source alternatives.

Today, the global outages caused by Microsoft products have highlighted significant vulnerabilities within our current technological ecosystem.  These outages have not only disrupted businesses but also underscored the potential risks of relying heavily on proprietary software. This incident serves as a perfect example of why we need to move towards a total open source system.

Mailing lists are an indispensable tools for businesses, organisations, and individuals. They facilitate communication, enable targeted marketing, and streamline the dissemination of information.  However, the improper use of mailing lists, particularly when it comes to understanding and using the CC (Carbon Copy) and BCC (Blind Carbon Copy) fields, can lead to serious privacy breaches, legal repercussions, and a loss of trust.  This article explores the importance of due care and attention when using private mailing lists, with a particular focus on the correct usage of CC and BCC.

Thumb drives, also known as USB flash drives, have long been favoured for their ability to store and transfer files with ease. However, the utility of these compact devices extends far beyond simple data storage.  Thumb drive apps—software designed to run directly from a USB drive—offer a host of benefits that can enhance productivity, security, and flexibility for both personal and professional users.  In this article, we'll explore what makes thumb drive apps so great and why they deserve a place in your tech toolkit.

From irreplaceable family photos to essential work documents, the loss of data can be catastrophic.  While there are numerous backup solutions available, using FreeFileSync with three USB sticks and a USB hub provides a powerful, cost-effective, and efficient backup system.  This article will guide you through the process of setting up and using this combination to ensure your data remains secure.