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The Crucial Role of Regular WordPress and Plugin Updates

Posted on by netpyxAdmin

Introduction

In today’s digital landscape, having a dynamic and secure website is paramount for businesses and individuals alike. WordPress, a popular content management system (CMS), is favoured by millions for its versatility, ease of use, and extensive plugin ecosystem. However, maintaining the security and functionality of your WordPress website requires consistent updates, both for the core software and its plugins. In this article, we delve into the reasons why updating your WordPress version and plugins regularly is of utmost importance.

  1. 1. Enhanced Security: One of the most compelling reasons to keep your WordPress version and plugins up to date is to ensure the security of your website. Hackers and malicious actors are constantly seeking vulnerabilities in outdated software. By updating regularly, you can patch security vulnerabilities and protect your website from potential breaches. WordPress developers continually identify and address security concerns, releasing updates to fortify your website’s defenses.

  2. 2. Bug Fixes and Improvements: Software, no matter how well-designed, can have bugs or glitches. WordPress and plugin developers actively work to identify and rectify these issues with each new release. Regular updates provide you with bug fixes, performance enhancements, and overall improvements to the user experience. Ignoring updates may lead to frustrating technical problems and hinder the optimal functioning of your website.

  3. 3. Compatibility with New Features: WordPress is an evolving platform that introduces new features and functionalities with each version release. Plugins, too, are updated to integrate with the latest WordPress features. By keeping your WordPress version and plugins current, you can take advantage of these new capabilities, ensuring your website remains competitive and relevant.

  4. 4. Optimized Speed and Performance: Slow-loading websites can drive away visitors and negatively impact your search engine rankings. Regular updates often include performance optimizations that can significantly improve your website’s speed and responsiveness. Faster loading times contribute to a better user experience, keeping visitors engaged and encouraging them to explore your content further.

  5. 5. Search Engine Ranking Boost: Search engines, like Google, prioritize websites that provide a secure and user-friendly experience. By consistently updating your WordPress version and plugins, you enhance your website’s chances of ranking higher in search engine results pages (SERPs). Improved security and performance directly contribute to a better search engine ranking.

  6. 6. Avoiding Plugin Incompatibility :As the WordPress ecosystem evolves, plugins can become incompatible with older versions of the CMS. Using outdated plugins can lead to errors, crashes, or even a complete website breakdown. Regular updates ensure that your plugins remain compatible with the latest version of WordPress, preventing any compatibility issues.

  7. 7. Minimizing Downtime and Disruptions : Delaying updates can lead to a situation where multiple updates need to be applied at once. This increases the risk of unexpected errors or disruptions that can cause downtime. By updating regularly, you distribute changes incrementally, reducing the chances of prolonged periods of inaccessibility.

Conclusion

Updating your WordPress version and plugins might seem like a minor task, but its implications are far-reaching. The importance of security, enhanced performance, compatibility, and user experience cannot be overstated. By embracing regular updates, you ensure your website remains a resilient, engaging, and secure platform that effectively serves both your business goals and the expectations of your visitors. Neglecting updates might save time momentarily, but the long-term consequences can be detrimental. Stay current, stay secure, and stay ahead in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

Microsoft Officially Stopped Retail Sales of Windows 7

Posted on by netpyxAdmin

Its the farewell of Window 7 as Microsoft ends retail sales of the consumer versions of its Home Basic, Premium and Ultimate to computer manufacturers.

As of late last week, Microsoft put an end over selling retail copies of some versions of Windows 7 and 8. The move is to help and encourage people on to more recent versions of the operating system. Once the supply runs out, people won’t be able to get a new computer with that old software installed.

If you are into business, you need not to worry as Windows 7 professional was spared at least till next year. The changes are primarily going to affect PC manufacturers as the tech giant already stopped selling Windows 7 software package to the general public in 2013, but now even Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) cannot license it.

There will be retail box sales of Windows 8.1 while consumers and businesses will still be able to buy Windows 7 Professional licenses. However, it will be available at an extra cost and have limited availability. It is unclear how many PCs with old version are still in stock but it might take some time to see its brush off.

The Windows 8 version was largely a failure for the tech giant as it was given a very cold response by businesses and regular customers. The absence of the Start Menu was one of the big complaints by users. Mainstream support for Windows 7 will end in January 2015 and the retail sales of Windows 8 on Friday.

The next big upgrade will be Windows 10 for its Windows Operating System and it is expected to launch in late 2015. A preview version of the software was available to download and was checked by 1 million users in the first two weeks.

The recent shift will take some time as many PC makers have large stocks of older versions and will continue to sell PCs running the software. However, market analysis reveals a sharp decline in the number of people using the Windows XP operating system.

The tech giant believes that it can bridge the gap for people to migrate to mobile devices running Microsoft software.

Looks like the tech giant is clearing the path for the launch of Windows 10….

Microsoft to Come with Apple-like Trackpad Gestures for Windows 10

Posted on by netpyxAdmin

Microsoft is making the next version of Windows better for users by introducing new trackpad gestures. The tech giant has just announced that trackpad gestures are getting a makeover in coming Windows 10.

It is a good news for Windows laptop users that more advanced gestures are now making their way into the popular operating system. Microsoft is borrowing new features from Apple, but that doesn’t mean they’ll be same. This is of course a big jump and worth investing in the improvement of such a popular operating system.

Microsoft corporate VP Joe Belfiore said in a speech at the TechEd Europe conference on Tuesday, “In the past, touchpads on Windows have really been done very differently because OEMs do them. With Windows 10 operating system we’re adding support for power users in a touchpad, where multiple finger gestures, which all of your power users learn, can make you really efficient.”

A number of useful gestures have been added like a three-finger swipe downward brings you to your desktop. A three-finger horizontal swipe and three-finger swipe up displays multi desktop ‘task view’ lets you quickly switch between different applications. Both Microsoft and Apple have borrowed desktop features from each other as the companies don’t hesitate making great ideas its own.

Microsoft is also working on window snapping on multiple monitors, something users have been calling for. The feature drifts apps in the center of the monitor split, and then steadily drags them in the direction of the transparent snap window that appears. The tech giant is planning to bring more advanced and useful features to an upcoming Windows 10 Technical Preview build.

It looks like the company is focusing on smoothing out the power user experience by bringing new features to the upcoming operating system.

If you have something to add to the story, do share your opinion.

Microsoft Skips Windows 9 and Unveiled Windows 10

Posted on by netpyxAdmin

Microsoft has announced Windows 10 in an event in San Francisco and the giant wants to make it a killer OS.

The next version of Microsoft operating system will be ‘Windows 10’, as the giant skips version 9 to accentuate advances it is making around mobile devices and Internet services. The announcement highlighted advancements designed for business and an updated user experience. The latest version comes with enhanced security and management capabilities. The giant also introduced the Windows Insider Program, delivered to best meet the needs of customers.

Terry Myerson, executive vice president of the OS group at Microsoft said, “Windows 10 represents the first step of a whole new generation of Windows, unlocking new experiences to give customers new ways to work, play and connect.” He added, “This will be our most comprehensive operating system and the best release the company has ever done for our business customers. We look forward to working together with our broader community.” The Windows 10 technical Preview will be released today, October 1.

Windows 10 for desktop and laptop users…

Windows 8 got a poor response and that’s why version 10 is an extremely crucial release for Microsoft. It needs to rectify the wrongs of Windows 8 and offer users a reason to upgrade from Windows XP or 7. It is an important step for Microsoft especially when it continues to lose ground in the mobile sector as well. The latest version have to be the jack of all trades.

Have a look at the features…

The start menu returns and the left side will look a lot like the standard Windows 7 start menu, but there’ll be options at the right side. The left side of the menu comes with a new Metro-like look. You’ll have the option of using virtual desktops. With virtual desktops, you can switch between as many desktops as you want.

Windows 10 will let you run Metro apps on the desktop in a window. In simple words, mouse-and-keyboard users might now use Metro apps. It also seems like the new desktop will receive a graphical overhaul, but not clear yet. The leaked preview shows some thinner window borders and flatter icons.

Windows 10 has a new task view button that pops up the Task View interface. The snap function is also being updated so that windows can be easily tiled vertically and horizontally. There are lots of other tweaks to the new version.

Have something to add to the story? Feel free to share your opinion…

Microsoft to Merge Windows all Versions into One Consolidated Operating System

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Satya Nadella, Microsoft CEO, has confirmed that the next version of Windows will be an amalgamated form of the three versions of Windows into one operating system.

Speaking in an earnings call, he told analysts the company will unify the next version of Windows from three operating systems into one operating system. Nadella said “this means one operating system that covers all screen sizes, ranging from tablets and smartphones, to desktops and laptops.” It was also revealed that the giant has internally restructured itself since the retirement of Steve Ballmer. The new CEO said the company now has “one team with a common architecture”.

The company, under the direction of Steve Ballmer, had multiple teams creating different versions of Windows working independently from each other. Now the giant noted the benefit of one team for developers and users. The new consolidated platform will allow the development of universal Windows apps that work across all devices running the OS.

Looks like the company has been pushing toward more unification of its platforms. In April, Microsoft displayed developer tools that would empower the development of universal apps. The ability to make apps that work on PCs, Xbox Consoles, Laptops, Tablets and Windows Phones should be welcomes by developers.

Some rumors have indicated that the latest, unified version will be Windows 9 and may launch in early 2015. It is announced that there will be more information surrounding future versions of Windows in the coming months.

Let’s wait and watch what Microsoft is going to offer next…

An Unexpected Move of Microsoft: Extends Deadline for Windows 8.1 Update

Posted on by netpyxAdmin

In a move that should surprise all, Microsoft has extended the deadline of installing the Windows 8.1 Update.

Microsoft has extended the deadline for installing its Windows 8.1 Update till June 10, giving its customers a 30-day reprieve. Microsoft’s Brandon LeBlanc wrote in a blog post, “While we believe the majority of users have received the update, we found that not all have.” He added, “Having our customers update their devices with latest updates is super important to us. And we’re also committed to ensure them safety.”

According to the sources, instead of requiring Windows 8.1 to be installed till May 13, Microsoft is now allowing its users a relaxation till June 10. However, deadline for those involved in businesses – it’s August 12. It simply means that business owners can switch to Windows 8.1 Update until August 12. It looks like the company wants to give its customers enough time to understand and apply the Update.

The initial cutoff date was fixed for May, which would have meant that some devices would have gone dead by this week. But, not to worry, Microsoft isn’t forcing people to update their devices as soon as possible, instead the company is offering enough time to its customers. The giant extended the deadline for people using Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), System Center Configuration or Windows Intune to update their machines.

This means that you have an extra 30 days to get it done, but Microsoft wants you to do it as soon as possible. If you have Automatic Updates, you do not have to do anything and you will receive the Update automatically to your machine via Windows Update.

According to Microsoft, the majority of the remaining users who haven’t updated their machines will be able to to do.

Feel free to share your opinion….

Microsoft to Compete Android with its New Affordable Phones

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Microsoft is planning to compete Google’s Android with its new range of phones running on Windows Operating System.

Windows phone has had a troubled history since its debut in 2010, each phone has suffered some major functional gaps. These gaps made Windows phone clearly inferior to the Android and and the iPhone, but now the things have changed. Windows phone are slowly rolling out, closes more of the functional gaps and ready to hit the ground with more affordable phones. Microsoft is planning to take over Google’s Android with its new rage of Windows phone this year.

Microsoft’s country GM – Chakrapani Gollapali said, “I think in the coming months, you will see some really aggressive portfolio expansion.” You must be aware that Android dominates the global market while Apple iOS holds a premium segment. Microsoft Windows OS failed to get a good hold as Windows-powered phones held only 3% of the world’s Smartphone market.

But the giant seems to be very serious about its portfolio and has recently taken steps to boost the adoption of its devices. The company has made Windows free for companies involved in manufacturing phone and tablets. The giant is also offering a one year free subscription to cloud-based 365 service on the latest devices.

The company is coming up with many offers at a time when it has also stitched up partnerships with a string of phone makers. These phone manufacturers also include Indian companies and the idea is to make affordable devices offering the Windows OS.

The company has just announced its Windows Phone 8.1 and also revealed its alliances with Indian phone makers like Karbonn, Lava, Xolo and Micromax. It looks like the Microsoft wants to reap out the potential of Indian Smartphone market.

According to the Microsoft – the Windows Phone had managed to attract customers and now a significant portion of people is switching to Windows platform. It wants to win the Global market with the low-priced phones.

What do you prefer – an Android, Apple iOS or Windows…..  

Microsoft to Fix a Security Flaw in Internet Explorer, Windows XP Still at Risk

Posted on by netpyxAdmin

Are you still using the same 12-year-old operating system? Be careful, as a new security flaw has been discovered in Internet Explorer web browser.

Microsoft Corp is rushing to fix a security flaw in its Internet Explorer after it is been disclosed by a computer security firm. The company clarified on Saturday its plans to fix the flaw targeting the browser’s versions 9 through 11. It warned users that a vulnerability in all versions could let hackers gain complete access over your computer, allowing them to run programs or delete your important data.

That’s not a good news, but at least Microsoft is rushing to fix on a modern version of Windows while Windows XP will not receive any patch. The company has stopped supporting its old operating system and according to the firm’s estimate 15 to 25 percent PCs in the world still run Windows XP. This is first discovered security flaw since the company ended its support, and it simply indicates that Windows XP is no more secure.

The security firm FireEye Inc, a division that helps companies deal with cyber attacks, said that a sophisticated group of hackers have been manipulating the bug in a campaign called – ‘Operation Clandestine Fox’. The division described the group as ‘extremely proficient at lateral movement’ which is ‘difficult to track’. The campaign is said to be targeted against U.S. based firms but the motives are still unclear.

Microsoft said that the bug could allow that group to take complete control of your system, and do things like installing malicious programs, creating accounts and deleting data without your knowledge. The company asked users to move on to modern operating system as Windows XP will no more receive any updates. The old version is exposed to security risks and you may lose your important data to hackers.

The Internet Explorer users can do certain things to avoid this exploit and the easiest among all methods is to use a different browser, like Firefox or Chrome. Those who still want to stick with Internet Explorer, the company has published some advanced methods such as Enhanced Protected Mode.

It’ll be good for you to take some action before your important data gets exploited…….