If you’ve ever been to a proper spa, you may have noticed someone sitting in the sauna with a green or white paste on their face, looking perfectly calm and unbothered. It might seem a little unusual at first — but this practice is actually one of the best-kept skincare secrets around. Applying a face mask in the sauna isn’t just a quirky trend. It’s a ritual that takes your skincare routine to a completely different level.

Why the Sauna Is the Perfect Place for a Face Mask

Here’s the simple science: heat opens your pores. When you sit in a sauna, the warm, humid air causes your skin to sweat and your pores to expand. This makes your skin far more receptive to whatever you put on it. Ingredients that might sit on the surface of your skin under normal conditions can actually penetrate deeper when your pores are open.

Think of it like trying to water a dry, hard piece of ground versus soft, damp soil. The mask absorbs better, works faster, and the results are noticeably more effective.

Which Masks Work Best?

Not all face masks are created equal, and some are better suited for sauna use than others.

• Clay masks are the gold standard for sauna use. Kaolin and bentonite clay draw out impurities, absorb excess oil, and unclog pores — all things the heat is already helping to do. Together, they make a powerful combination.
• Honey masks are great for dry or sensitive skin. Honey is naturally antibacterial and deeply moisturising. The heat helps it sink in beautifully.
• Turmeric or herbal masks work well for brightening and calming inflammation. The heat boosts circulation, which enhances the glow effect.
• Avoid heavy cream or oil-based masks in the sauna — they can feel suffocating in the heat and may clog pores instead of clearing them.

How to Do It Properly

The ritual is simple, but a few tips make a big difference.

1. Cleanse your face first. Start with clean skin so the mask can do its job without having to fight through makeup or sunscreen.
2. Apply your mask before entering the sauna. Give it a quick minute to settle, then go in.
3. Keep your session to 10–15 minutes. This is enough time for the heat to work its magic without drying your skin out.
4. Rinse with cool water after. This closes your pores back up and locks in the benefits. The contrast of warm sauna and cool water also gives your skin a lovely firmness.
5. Follow with a light moisturiser. Your skin will be extra absorbent after this routine, so a good moisturiser applied right after will sink in deeply.

The Bigger Picture — Sauna as a Skincare Ritual

In Finland, sauna time has always been about more than just heat. It’s a moment to slow down, take care of yourself, and be present. Incorporating a face mask turns that experience into a full skincare ritual — one that’s completely natural, free of harsh chemicals, and deeply effective.

Your skin faces pollution, stress, and sun exposure every single day. Giving it a dedicated sauna session with a good mask once or twice a week is one of the kindest things you can do for it.

The best part? It costs very little, requires almost no effort, and feels absolutely wonderful. That’s the kind of self-care routine that’s actually easy to stick to.

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Picture having a sauna on a rural property, deep in the woods, or far from the nearest power line. No grid connection. Just heat whenever you want it. For a long time that was a pipe dream. But solid-state batteries are starting to make it actually happen.

Regular batteries, like the ones in your phone or most home solar setups, use a liquid inside to carry charge. That liquid breaks down over time, does not handle heat well, and can be a fire risk. Solid-state batteries use a solid material instead. They last longer, handle temperature changes much better, and are far safer. For a sauna setup that gets hot and cools down repeatedly, that is a big deal.

Why saunas need so much power

A standard sauna heater uses between 3kW and 9kW of electricity. Add a ventilation fan, some lighting, and a cold plunge unit and you have a setup that needs a lot of stored energy. Most people also sauna in the evening, not during the middle of the day when solar panels are working their hardest. So you need a battery that can store enough power during the day to cover your session at night.

Solid-state batteries are really good at this. They hold more energy, charge faster, and can handle thousands of charge cycles without losing much capacity. That means your system stays reliable for years without needing expensive replacements.

What a real off-grid sauna setup looks like

The basic setup is simple. Solar panels on your roof or on the ground nearby charge your battery bank during the day. By evening you have a full charge ready to run your sauna, your lighting, and your ventilation. No generator noise. No fuel costs. No electricity bill.

The size of your solar and battery system depends on how big your sauna is and how often you use it. A small two-person sauna used a few times a week needs a much smaller system than a large six-person sauna used daily. A good installer can size this out for you based on your actual usage.

Is the technology ready right now?

Solid-state home batteries are still fairly new to the residential market. Companies like Toyota, QuantumScape, and Solid Power have been pushing the technology forward fast. Some modular home storage products are already available and more are coming in the next year or two. Prices are still higher than regular lithium-ion options but they are dropping quickly.

If you are planning a sauna pod build right now, a quality lithium-ion system can still get the job done well. But if you are planning a long-term permanent installation, waiting for or budgeting for solid-state storage is worth considering. The longer lifespan alone can make it the cheaper option over time.

Off-grid sauna living is no longer just for people with deep pockets or serious engineering skills. With the right battery setup and a decent solar array, a fully independent sauna pod is well within reach for most property owners.

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Sauna stones form the thermal heart of any wood-fired sauna, yet most owners never venture beyond commercially packaged options that cost $3-5 per kilogram. Understanding geological properties enables you to source high-performance stones locally for free while optimizing heat retention, steam quality, and longevity based on your specific sauna usage patterns.​

Igneous Rocks: The Heat Retention Champions

Igneous rocks formed from cooled magma possess dense crystalline structures that excel at absorbing and radiating heat over extended periods. Peridotite and olivine-rich basalts represent the premium tier of igneous sauna stones, with thermal conductivity ratings of 3.5-4.2 W/m·K that allow rapid heat absorption during firing. Gabbro and dolerite offer nearly identical performance at easier availability—look for dark gray to black stones with uniform coloration and no visible layering or banding. These rocks withstand temperature cycling between 20°C and 400°C repeatedly without fracturing, typically lasting 3-5 years of regular use before requiring replacement.​

Metamorphic Alternatives: Steam Quality Specialists

Metamorphic rocks created under high pressure develop aligned mineral structures that produce distinctly different sauna experiences. Quartzite generates exceptionally dry, penetrating heat due to its crystalline silica composition, making it ideal for traditional Finnish-style saunas where temperatures exceed 85°C. Soapstone releases heat gradually and gently, maintaining stable temperatures for 45-60 minutes after fires burn down—perfect for extended meditation sessions or therapeutic applications. Hornfels, a contact metamorphic rock, combines moderate heat retention with excellent thermal shock resistance, rarely cracking even when cold water hits stones at peak temperature.​

Field Identification and Safety Testing

Never collect stones from riverbeds or beaches, as water-saturated rocks contain microscopic moisture pockets that explosively vaporize when heated above 150°C. Source stones from dry geological exposures, road cuts, or quarry sites at least 50 meters from any water source. Perform the thermal shock test before installation: heat candidate stones in a campfire to red-hot temperature, then immediately submerge in cold water. Stones that survive three cycles without cracking, fragmenting, or producing loud popping sounds pass basic safety requirements. Reject any stones showing layering, banding, or flaky surfaces—these sedimentary characteristics indicate high failure risk under sauna conditions.​

Size and Shape Optimization

Stone dimensions dramatically affect heat transfer efficiency and airflow through your stove. Target stones sized between 10-15cm diameter for primary heating mass, as smaller stones lack sufficient thermal mass while larger stones create dead air pockets that reduce combustion efficiency. Smooth, rounded stones provide 20-30% better airflow than angular fragments, though excessively polished river rocks revert to the moisture retention problem. Create a three-layer system: 15cm stones on the bottom for maximum thermal mass, 10cm stones in the middle layer for balanced heating, and 8cm stones on top for rapid steam generation when water contacts their quickly heated surfaces.​

Mineral Content and Steam Characteristics

Rock mineral composition affects the sensory quality of steam produced when water vaporizes on hot surfaces. High-iron content stones like magnetite-rich basalt produce slightly metallic-scented steam that some users find invigorating, while pure quartzite generates completely neutral steam. Avoid stones containing sulfides (identified by metallic yellow or brassy flecks), as these release hydrogen sulfide gas when heated, creating unpleasant rotten egg odors. Serpentinite, despite its excellent heat properties, can contain asbestos minerals—only collect this green-tinged stone if you can verify it comes from asbestos-free geological zones through local geological surveys.​

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Outdoor saunas add warmth and relaxation to your backyard, but they are also exposed to weather, temperature fluctuations, and humidity. Understanding how these factors affect sauna wood is essential for maintaining its beauty, safety, and longevity. With proper care, your sauna can withstand the harshest conditions and remain a reliable retreat for years.

1. Winter Challenges: Cold and Moisture

Cold temperatures and snow can be tough on sauna wood. Wood fibers contract in freezing conditions, which may cause minor cracks or splits. Accumulation of snow and ice on the roof or around the sauna base increases the risk of moisture infiltration. Repeated freeze–thaw cycles can weaken structural components if the sauna is not properly insulated and ventilated.

Tip: Ensure the sauna is slightly elevated or has a proper drainage system to prevent standing water. Regularly remove snow from the roof and surrounding areas to protect the wood.

2. Sun Exposure: UV Damage and Fading

Sauna wood can dry out and crack when exposed to direct sunlight. UV rays break down natural wood pigments in species like spruce and pine, leaving them washed out or silver-gray. Prolonged sun exposure can also dry the wood too quickly, potentially causing minor warping or splits.

Protection: Applying eco-friendly, UV-resistant oils or sealants can slow the effects of sunlight while maintaining the wood’s natural feel and breathability. Choosing UV-stable woods like cedar or thermowood can further enhance resilience.

3. Rain and Humidity: The Silent Threats

High humidity and rainfall are major causes of wood damage. Persistent moisture can lead to mold, rot, and warping if ventilation is inadequate. Wood panels absorb water unevenly, causing expansion and contraction that creates surface irregularities over time.

Maintenance Tips:

• Always allow your sauna to ventilate after use to let residual steam escape.
• Treat the wood with natural oils that protect against moisture while allowing the wood to breathe.
• Inspect joints and seams regularly to prevent water from seeping into structural areas.

4. Wind and Debris: Additional Considerations

Strong winds can carry dirt, leaves, and debris that may scratch or abrade the wood surface. Over time, this can create rough spots and reduce the wood’s aesthetic appeal. Trees near the sauna can also deposit sap or leaves that stain or stick to surfaces.

Preventive Measures: Position the sauna in a sheltered location, use protective covers when not in use, and clean the exterior surfaces regularly.

5. Seasonal Maintenance Checklist

To survive outdoor conditions, sauna wood requires seasonal attention:

• Spring: Inspect for water damage, mold, or cracks after snow and ice melt.
• Summer: Apply UV-protective oil or sealant and clean surfaces from debris.
• Autumn: Check for loose boards, leaks, or areas prone to mold before winter.
• Winter: Remove snow and ice, and ensure ventilation isn’t blocked by frost.

Regular seasonal maintenance prevents minor issues from becoming major problems, prolonging the life of your sauna.

6. Expert Advice for Long-Term Durability

For detailed guidance on protecting your outdoor sauna wood against the elements, including tips on cleaning, oiling, and seasonal upkeep, check out the Backcountry Recreation blog. Their resources offer step-by-step instructions to maintain your sauna’s wood health while keeping it functional and beautiful throughout the year.

7. Conclusion

Outdoor elements like cold, sun, rain, and humidity might seem intimidating, but with the right knowledge and preventive care, your sauna wood can thrive. Elevation, ventilation, eco-friendly treatments, and seasonal inspections are key to avoiding mold, rot, cracking, and discoloration. Understanding and respecting how wood naturally responds to these conditions will ensure your sauna remains a safe, comfortable, and long-lasting retreat, ready for enjoyment year round.

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Outdoor heat gear like hot tubs, saunas, and fire pits can transform your backyard into a relaxing oasis. But without proper precautions, these cozy comforts can quickly become hazardous. The combination of high heat, water, electricity, and fire requires careful handling to prevent burns, shocks, carbon monoxide poisoning, and even structure fires.

The good news? Most accidents are completely preventable with basic safety knowledge. Whether you’re installing new equipment or using existing gear, understanding these risks helps ensure years of safe enjoyment. Let’s examine the most frequent safety oversights and how to avoid them.

Proper Site Preparation Matters

Many safety issues stem from poor installation choices. Hot tubs and saunas demand stable, well-planned locations. A filled hot tub’s immense weight – often exceeding 6,000 pounds – requires reinforced concrete or properly compacted gravel bases to prevent shifting or collapse.

Fire safety clearances aren’t suggestions – they’re lifesaving requirements. Wood-burning saunas need minimum three-foot buffers from any combustible materials, though local codes may mandate greater distances. Always verify drainage plans too, as poor water runoff creates slippery hazards and potential foundation damage.

Fire Safety With Wood-Burning Equipment

That crackling fire may look inviting, but wood-burning gear demands respect. Only use properly seasoned hardwoods with low moisture content to minimize dangerous creosote buildup in chimneys. Store firewood at least thirty feet from structures, elevated and covered while allowing airflow.

Annual professional chimney cleaning is non-negotiable – it removes flammable deposits and identifies worn components before they fail. Never overload fireboxes or override temperature controls, as overfiring can warp metal and spark devastating fires. Keep multiple fire extinguishers accessible near all heat sources.

The Invisible Threat: Carbon Monoxide

Colorless, odorless carbon monoxide claims lives every year when ventilation fails. Even outdoor installations can trap deadly gases under certain wind conditions. Always position wood-burning equipment where prevailing winds promote airflow, and install CO detectors rated for humid environments.

Test detectors monthly and replace batteries annually. Never operate multiple combustion devices simultaneously in enclosed spaces, and be particularly cautious during unusual weather patterns that might limit natural ventilation.

Electrical Safety Around Water

Water and electricity create potentially lethal combinations. All hot tubs require GFCI-protected circuits installed by licensed electricians – never use extension cords as permanent solutions. Inspect electrical components seasonally for weather damage, and immediately replace any frayed wiring or corroded connections.

Maintain dry zones around control panels, and ensure all outdoor outlets have proper weatherproof covers. Remember – electrical safety devices only protect when functioning correctly, so test GFCIs monthly using their built-in test buttons.

Smart Usage Practices

Even perfectly installed equipment becomes dangerous with irresponsible use. Limit hot tub sessions to 15-20 minutes at temperatures below 104°F to prevent overheating. Saunas can reach higher temperatures, but decrease session length accordingly – your body gives warning signs like dizziness or nausea for good reason.

Stay hydrated with water before and after heat exposure, and absolutely avoid alcohol which impairs judgment and accelerates dehydration. Always supervise children, as their smaller bodies overheat faster. Those with medical conditions should consult doctors before regular heat therapy.

Invest in Quality for Peace of Mind

Cutting corners on equipment quality invites safety compromises. Look for third-party certifications like UL or ETL listings that verify rigorous testing. Reputable suppliers like Backcountry Recreation offer durable, safety-engineered options designed for worry-free operation.

Conclusion

Safety transforms outdoor heat gear from potential hazard to therapeutic haven. By respecting fire, water, and electricity while following manufacturer guidelines, you create a backyard retreat that’s as safe as it is relaxing.

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TGM Gaming Macro is a powerful automation software for Windows that allows users to automate repetitive tasks and create custom macros. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the software’s features, user interface, performance, support and documentation, and compare it to similar products on the market.

Features

TGM Gaming Macro has a wide range of features that are designed to make automating tasks easier. The software allows users to record macros, create custom macros using a scripting language, and schedule macros to run at specific times. The software also includes a built-in text editor for editing macros, as well as a macro library for storing and sharing macros.

One of the most notable features of TGM Gaming Macro is its ability to automate repetitive tasks such as filling out forms, data entry, and even automate mouse and keyboard actions. The software also allows users to automate tasks across multiple applications, which is particularly useful for those who frequently switch between different programs.

Evaluation of How Well the Features Meet the User’s Needs

TGM Gaming Macro’ features are well-suited to users who need to automate repetitive tasks and increase their productivity. The software’s macro recording and scripting capabilities make it easy to create custom macros that can automate a wide range of tasks. The built-in text editor and macro library are also useful for editing and sharing macros with others. Additionally, the ability to schedule macros to run at specific times is a great feature for users who need to automate tasks on a regular basis.

User Interface

The TGM Gaming Macro user interface is straightforward and easy to navigate. The main window is divided into several sections that allow users to access different features of the software. The macro recording and scripting features are located in the main window, while the built-in text editor and macro library can be accessed from the menu. The software also includes a toolbar that provides quick access to commonly used features.

Evaluation of the Ease of Use and Overall User-friendliness

The TGM Gaming Macro user interface is well-designed and easy to use. The software’s layout is logical and intuitive, making it easy to find the features you need. The built-in text editor and macro library are also easy to use and make it easy to edit and share macros. Additionally, the software’s toolbar provides quick access to commonly used features, which is a convenient feature for users who frequently switch between different tasks.

Performance

TGM Gaming Macro is a reliable software that performs well. The software is able to automate a wide range of tasks quickly and efficiently. The software’s macro recording and scripting features work as expected and the built-in text editor and macro library are responsive and easy to use. The software is also able to schedule macros to run at specific times, which is a useful feature for users who need to automate tasks on a regular basis.

Support and Documentation

TGM Gaming Macro has a wide range of support options available. The software includes a built-in help system that provides detailed information on how to use the software. Users can also access the software’s FAQs, forums, and tutorials for additional help. The software also includes a detailed manual that provides step-by-step instructions on how to use the software.

Evaluation of the Quality and Availability of Documentation and Resources

The TGMacro support and documentation is extensive and well-organized. The software’s built-in help system provides detailed information on how to use the software, while the FAQs, forums, and tutorials are a useful resource for users who need additional help. The detailed manual is also a great resource for users who want to learn more about the software. Overall, the software’s documentation and resources are of high quality and easy to access.

Comparison

TGMacro is a powerful automation software that is comparable to other products on the market such as AutoHotkey, Macro Express, and Keyboard Maestro. In terms of features, TGMacro offers a wide range of capabilities such as macro recording, scripting, and scheduling, that are similar to those of its competitors. However, TGMacro also includes a built-in text editor and macro library, which is a unique feature that sets it apart from other automation software.

In terms of performance and user interface, TGMacro is similar to its competitors. The software is reliable and easy to use, and the user interface is straightforward and intuitive. However, TGMacro’ support and documentation are more extensive and well-organized than some of its competitors.

In terms of pricing, TGMacro is competitively priced and offers a free trial for users to test the software before purchasing.

Conclusion

TGMacro is a powerful automation software that is designed to make automating tasks easier. The software’s wide range of features, including macro recording, scripting, and scheduling, make it easy to create custom macros that can automate a wide range of tasks. The built-in text editor and macro library are also useful for editing and sharing macros with others. The software’s user interface is straightforward and easy to use, and the software is reliable and efficient. Additionally, the software’s support and documentation are extensive and well-organized. Overall, TGMacro is an excellent choice for users who need to automate repetitive tasks and increase their productivity.

The post What is TGM Gaming Macro and How Does it Help Your Gameplay? appeared first on Ewans Kelly.

Easy to use, wide compatibility, and simple installation. These are some of the traits every user wants their software to have, luckily if you are in search of an Open-Source Bootable USB creator, Etcher also known as balenaEtcher will fit your needs!

Creating bootable USB drives may sound like a daunting task that needs a great amount of technical knowledge and expertise that will make most users stray away from bootable USB drives no matter how dire their need is and will most likely spend cash on the services of professionals.

Etcher is designed to be usable by everyone including those who are not tech-savvy but need a bootable USB drive for a host of reasons. That is why its installation was programmed to be as easy as any other software installation.

With regard to installation, if you have installed any other program on your Windows, macOS or Linux device before then Etcher will be no hassle. This is true even for people who have only installed a new browser such as Google Chrome!

This is because Etcher has its own installation wizard that will guide the user and will not require any further tweaking or downloads. This is true on all platforms that Etcher runs on.

Once installed, ease-of-use is the game. Just run the Etcher program, attach the USB you want to be bootable, and flash the image you want! It’s that easy! There is no overly technical stuff that can overwhelm a new user such as the input of command lines.

This is because Etcher has made it a point to use a user-friendly graphical interface. Of course, for Linux users the use of command lines is necessary but this is no problem for new and seasoned Linux users. 

However, for the power users out there or those that just want to try and experiment with command lines on Windows, the Etcher development team has stated that a command-line installation and use is under development.

If any user has any problems with the installation and use of Etcher their website is easy to access and has straightforward instructions on how to install and use Etcher on Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Another great feature of Etcher is that it also allows users to use SD Cards as bootable drives the same way as flash drives! This is great since SD Cards are also in wide use nowadays because of mobile devices.

Now with all of those great features you might be wondering about the cost, surely the developers of this great software didn’t just give this away for free right? Well, they did! That’s the beauty of Open-Source programs.

Unlike proprietary software, open-source software such as Etcher is developed as public and open collaborations that are eventually made freely accessible to the public.

This also allows developers who have great ideas to contribute freely to the project and this will eventually lead to more features and updates. Therefore despite the great features of Etcher it is free software.

The post The Ultimate Guide To Etcher: How To Safely Burn ISO Files To USB appeared first on Ewans Kelly.

Citra is a software that emulators how Nintendo 3DS works and allows you to play various Nintendo 3DS video games. Emulators are there to make video games meant for older consoles continue to be relevant to newer fans or to help older fans relive their childhood memories. Cintra is there to help you enjoy 3DS video games on your PC without needing to buy a console. 

Most retro gaming emulators will only allow you to experience the gameplay while Citra’s developers went on further and also allowed you to experience 3DS sounds. Unfortunately, there are many games that you currently cant play using Cintra, but many popular titles are available. 

Popular video games like Pokemon Sun and Moon, Legend of Zelda Ocarina of Time, Rune Factory 4, and etc. Are available and hopefully, if these don’t satisfy your requirements, they will eventually be added to the Citra’s repertoire. You can easily buy video games for 3DS using eShop and you can also earn Nintendo Points. 

Citra Emulator is developed using C++ and many older PCs won’t support it as it requires at least x64 system. This type of system gets more and more common and if your computer satisfies this requirement, you are good to go. 

Citra doesn’t come with pre-installed or available video games, and you will need to require games on your own. Unfortunately Citra doesn’t support .3DS and .CIA files so you must decrypt them first before you run them through Citra. Many websites will allow you to do this for free, but there are also fake websites that might add in malware in the file through this process. And besides that, Nintendo is the only legal distributor of games for 3DS so downloading them from third party websites is most likely illegal. 

For those that aren’t all that tech-savvy, decrypting video games might also seem frightening, but it’s not that hard after you get used to the process.

The post How To Play Any Nintendo 3DS Game On Your PC With Citra Emulator appeared first on Ewans Kelly.

Keeping your devices free from clutter and unnecessary slow down is typically very important to most users. There are many options, both free and paid, that people have explored over the past few decades. Glary Utilities remains one of the more popular options in 2022. Claiming to boost speed, fix frustrating errors, stop crashes and eliminate freezes, Glary Utilities is an obvious contender. Let’s look at some features and see if it is worth your time.

Glary Utilities uses more than 20 tools to keep your computer performing at its fastest and best. There are two versions of Glary Utilities, a free and a Pro membership. The free version claims to get your computer running up to 800% faster than before using it. It is fully compatible with PCs and notebooks. This software is used by 40 million people according to their published audit.

There are a variety of free tools available to Glary Utilities users. Registry Repair, Glary Tracks Eraser, Glary Duplicate Cleaner, Disk SpeedUp, Absolute Uninstaller, Software updates, Quick search, and a Security Process explorer are among the most popular. One main downside to Glary Utilities is that it is NOT available for Mac. The free version does not provide free technical support and is not for commercial use. The Pro version also does have free technical support and is for commercial use, it also allows for 1-click scheduled maintenance and for scheduled web updates as well as an auto-erase of internet traffic logs at shutdown.

Glary Utilities is 100% freeware and can be used in combination with either Glary Utilities Pro other Glary products. The user support page offers online support, online feedback, and a FAQ section that covers a lot of common questions and information. The design and user interface have been updated recently to make the function more efficient and natural. The use of tabs and buttons to frame the information and make choices clear also minimized errors.

Glary Utilities is a comprehensive utility that helps to keep your computer running smoothly. Regular maintenance can extend the life of your machine and make your life so much faster and less frustrating. One major oversight in this program is its lack of security features. If this is the program you choose, you will also need to install and maintain security programs like a VPN and Malware software.

The paid version is offered as a subscription for about $40/ year for 3 devices. They do offer a 90-day money-back guarantee. For all the features offered in the paid version, it could be a realistic option for many people. It seems unreasonable for a commercial user to pay the subscription fee every year for only 3 devices, so this is better for individuals or small businesses.

Again, the lack of security for email or malicious downloads is a major weakness for this otherwise pretty well-rounded utility. Beginners may find the interface to be too busy and full of choices, while seasoned users will have no issue navigating the dashboard and intricacies of the program.

The post How You Can Use Glary Utilities To Speed Up Your Computer appeared first on Ewans Kelly.

Ubuntu is inarguably the most popular Linux distro out there that is known for its user-friendliness and versatility. Based on Debian, this software is a favorite among developers and programmers all over the world, at the same time it’s suitable for work and regular home users. 

The software is created and retained by Canonical and available in three variations – Server, Desktop, and Core. The company releases a new version every six months whereas LTS (long-term support) release is rolled out every two years. These releases get around 5 years of security updates and software maintenance, and you can get additional five years of support for a fee. 

Ubuntu uses a GNOME desktop environment, with a different number of editions to choose from including Ubuntu Budgie, Kubuntu, Ubuntu MATE, and Ubuntu Kylin. The difference between these editions is that they come with different sets of pre-installed packages and updates. Therefore, if you’re not sure about which types of apps you will need as a beginner user, then it’s best to stick with the original Ubuntu operating system and switch to other versions as per your requirements. 

In consumer-grade computers, Linux isn’t available by default, so you have to set up the operating system yourself. The setup process isn’t complicated if you are experienced in installing the OS but you might face a few hiccups along the way. A great thing about this Linux distro is that it doesn’t require hi-fi hardware, you can run it on 4 GB RAM, a 2GHz dual-core processor, and a 25 GB free hard disk. The OS is available free of charge from the official website, along with the instructions on how to create a bootable stick version of Ubuntu or burn the OS onto a DVD. You can also find instructions on the website regarding creating installers if you want to switch from macOS or Windows to Linux. 

When it comes to Ubuntu’s interface, the developers were more concerned about its utility rather than aesthetics. It doesn’t have all the eye-catching elements as Windows or macOS, but its simplicity may be the hook for some people as it allows easy navigation and clean UI. The process of creating a folder or file is identical to any other desktop, in addition to dragging and dropping. If you’re switching from Windows to Ubuntu, you might be thrown off guard by the absence of the bottom taskbar. The Ubuntu replacement is a top menu that accomplishes all the similar functions and displays information related to sound, date and time, battery, and network. 

Ubuntu lacks in popularity in comparison to other operating systems like macOS and Windows, and this gap is evident from the fact that most device manufacturers don’t ship their products with Linux. Plus, the support for drivers isn’t easily available either which is why a lot of Linux users install Ubuntu in addition to their default OS and switch between the two when required. Ubuntu has a steep learning curve, but the low-cost factor and stability of the OS make up for that.

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