8 cybersecurity tips for protecting your home Wi-Fi network
Because of all these connected devices and the data transferred across them, it is important that you take heed of the following tips to protect your Wi-Fi network from cybercriminals.
When you’re working from home, it is important that you keep your home Wi-Fi network secure. It’s most likely not just your work computer running on your network, you might also have cell phones, smart TVs and even your smart thermostat connected.
Because of all these connected devices and the data transferred across them, it is important that you take heed of the following tips to protect your Wi-Fi network from cybercriminals.
1. Ensure your router is secure
The first thing you need to do to ensure your personal data is protected is to secure your Wi-Fi router. Routers usually come with a standard username and password, and cybercriminals have ways to find these standard credentials online. They can then either lock the network or access your data.
As soon as you set up your Wi-Fi, give the router a unique name and use a strong password with letters, numbers and symbols.
2. Strengthen Wi-Fi encryption
Encryption is one of the best ways to safeguard your Wi-Fi network. It scrambles all the data transferred on your network so that hackers can’t decipher what is being sent.
It is recommended that you use WPA2 encryption as this is the most secure. Most newer routers are compatible with this type of encryption. If you have a router that is older than a decade, it might not be compatible and it is essential that you upgrade your router.
You can check whether your router uses WPA2 encryption by logging in to your router and checking the network settings.
3. Use a VPN
A virtual private network (VPN) is a type of encryption that hides your location’s IP address. That means that someone keeping an eye on your network won’t be able to see where you are based or what you are doing online.
VPNs have many benefits beyond securing your network. Since you can often select your IP address, they allow you to access content that might be restricted in your country. For example, if you enjoy online gambling but it is not regulated where you stay, you can use a VPN to mask your address and access new casinos not locally available. That way your data is not only secure, but you also get to enjoy many more entertainment options.
VPNs and their features can be used on your work computer as well as your phone and tablet.
4. Install a firewall
Most modern routers come with a pre-installed firewall. This firewall acts as a barrier to prevent hacking. However, there is the option to disable this firewall, so make sure it is enabled before connecting any of your devices.
If your router doesn’t have a firewall installed, make sure that you get one for your devices themselves.
5. Set up a separate network for IoT devices
The Internet of Things (IoT) includes other smart devices that you have in your home that are connected to your Wi-Fi network. This can include your smartwatch, fitness tracker, Alexa, smart thermostat or Google Home.
It is convenient to have all these devices online, but the more devices you have, the higher the risk of a hacker gaining access to your network, especially since not all devices prioritise security.
If you wish to elevate your work-from-home setup by protecting the Wi-Fi network you use for work, it is best to create a separate network for your IoT devices. This can be done via a virtual local area network (VLAN). With a VLAN, your work devices can be connected to one network, and your IoT devices to another.
6. Disable remote access
Modern Wi-Fi routers allow remote access so that a network technician can log into your device if you are experiencing problems. However, unless you need someone to have this kind of access, it is best to turn off this feature in the router’s settings.
Log in to your router’s web interface and look for settings, then disable “Remote Administration” or “Remote Access”. Most routers have this disabled as a default, but it is always best to check. By disabling this feature, you’re reducing the risk of someone outside of your home accessing your Wi-Fi.
7. Switch off your router when not at home
It may seem simple, but switching off your router when you’re not at home or not working is one of the easiest ways to protect your network. By unplugging the router you’re preventing hackers from accessing your network when you’re not home.
As a bonus, your router will also be protected from unexpected power surges.
8. Enable media access control (MAC) address filtering
A MAC address identifies specific devices on a network, each device has one. By turning on MAC address filtering, you’re preventing cybercriminals from connecting to a Wi-Fi network even if they managed to gain access to the password.
You can enable this feature in your router’s settings. Select the MAC addresses you wish to allow (e.g. your phone and laptop) and block any others.
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The best monitor to buy for working from home
Buying a new computer monitor can get a little overwhelming if you don’t know what you’re doing. Like a new mattress or sofa, you’re going to have to live with your purchase decision every day, so getting the right monitor for your work-from-home setup is crucial.
Buying a new computer monitor can get a little overwhelming if you don’t know what you’re doing. Like a new mattress or sofa, you’re going to have to live with your purchase decision every day, so getting the right monitor for your work-from-home setup is crucial. There are myriad different monitor brands from all over the place, and even within one brand, there are a thousand different monitor selections that can make things feel even more bewildering. To help out everyone who needs some guidance for buying monitors, we have created numerous recommendations to assist in your monitor purchase journey.
Best overall: The winner is…
Dell U2720Q UltraSharp USB-C 27inch 4K UHD
4.5 stars out of 5 (Amazon)
-6% RRP: £633
Who this is for: The Dell U2720Q UltraSharp monitor redefines your view with 3840x2160 resolution on a sharp, clear 27" screen. The brilliant picture quality and accurate colors of this QHD monitor will impress professionals who rely on precise image detail for critical work.
Why we like it: The Dell UltraSharp 27 Monitor, U2720Q , is the perfect solution for those looking to upgrade their current monitors. This monitor comes with a 4K (3840x2160) InfinityEdge display, which provides a seamless viewing experience and reduced bezels. As long as you’re not looking for a gaming monitor, this display comes with all the ports you’ll ever need including USB-C, USB 3.0, HDMI, Display Port, and an audio jack input, ensuring that you can set up your workstation once and never have to worry about it again. The U2720Q is also a HDR display, offers professional-grade color quality for all your content creation needs. and comes factory calibrated at 99% sRGB (ideal for graphic designers or photographers).
Flaws but not dealbreakers: Although the monitor comes with a USB-C input, it isn’t a Thunderbolt compatible display, so for Mac users you’ll likely need an external hub to connect all of your other accessories.
Best ultra wide: The winner is…
Samsung LS34J552WQRXXU 34inch UltraWQHD (3440 x 1440)
4.5 stars out of 5 (Amazon)
RRP: £349
Who this is for: A powerfully versatile performer ideal for multi-taskers and gamers, Samsung’s 34-inch UltraWide monitor makes games and movies more immersive than ever. With 21:9 aspect ratio, now you can get the same viewing experience with a wider screen that fills your field of vision. The IPS display with 99% sRGB accuracy is designed to complement the futuristic style of the curved screen, so it looks sleek and stylish in any setting.
Why we like it: Giving you a huge amount of screen real estate all packed into one monitor along with HDMI and DisplayPort connectivity, this Samsung display also features AMD FreeSync technology to eliminate image tearing and choppiness when gaming or video editing. Its special Mega Dynamic Contrast Ratio also offers an enhanced contrast level that gives you better visuals in any light conditions.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: Although 1440p still provides a crisp viewing experience, it doesn’t quite have the pixel density like some more expensive competitors in the ultra wide space. The Samsung SJ55W also doesn’t allow HDR, so if you’re looking for a monitor to view or edit content in high dynamic range, you’ll want to look elsewhere.
Best affordable: The winner is…
ASUS VP228HE 21.5inch FHD (1920x1080)
4.6 stars out of 5 (Amazon)
RRP: £123
Who this is for: If budget is a concern, or even if you’re just looking for a second (or even third) display for your workstation, the ASUS lineup of 1080p monitors are a great choice. Rated on Amazon as the ‘most-loved’ budget monitor, you can't go wrong with this 21.5inch display.
Why we like it: The VP228HE 21.5" Full HD monitor with 100,000,000:1 ASUS smart high contrast ratio, SplendidPlus and VivdPixel technologies are designed for quality visuals and colour accuracy. The design also extends to the study stand and slim profile without compromising style in ensuring stability and durability. A perfect companion for web browsing, photo editing, word processing and productivity tools.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: At only £99 it’s hard to focus on the features and tech that you’d find on pricier monitors. The adage of ‘you get what you pay for’ is absolutely prevalent with computer monitors, so although you’re missing out on a higher resolution display, higher framerates and a more colour accurate display, the 22inch 1080p is still a great solution for many.
Choosing a computer monitor is a hugely personal choice, but with all of the recent additions to display technology comes a wealth of new jargon to keep up to date with. Doing your research is crucial, making sure you don’t end up with a monitor that just doesn’t fit into your workstation setup, or leaves you with missing features or technology that will frustrate you every day you use it. Sound off in the comments below what your favourite monitor is, or if you have one of our choices, let us know what you think of them! 👇
Disclaimer: Product links on our website are referral links. If you use one of these and buy something, we make a little bit of money. Learn more here.
What else does your home office need?
A compact folding desk for a small space
Ring light for your Zoom calls
More work from home advice…
These 5 Mac productivity tips will transform your work life
Do you ever get the feeling that although you use a Mac everyday, perhaps you’re not getting the most of out it? We all know about using ⌘+space to bring up Spotlight right. Right?!
Do you ever get the feeling that although you use a Mac everyday, perhaps you’re not getting the most of out it? We all know about using ⌘+space to bring up Spotlight right. Right?! Some workflows can grow increasingly cumbersome and measured over a long period of time it all adds up to a waste in efficiency. So, it all sounds easy, but who has the time to learn some simple tricks to transform their work life? Well, the good news is that below we have brought together the 5 best productivity tips that every Mac user should be using for work, and it only takes 5 minutes to implement!
1. Use Mac’s version of ‘Task Manager’ with a handy shortcut
The Mac Task Manager is a mini-version of the Activity Monitor which is perfect for older or less-capable Macs that struggle with multi-core processing leading to crashes. Force quitting these unresponsive apps will be a lifesaver and isn’t widely known by a lot of users. To open the ‘Task Manager’, simultaneously press down the [COMMAND ⌘] + [OPTION ⌥] + [ESC] keys on your keyboard (or ESC on the Touch Bar). This will open a window containing a list of all currently opened programs and applications that are running in the background and allows you to close the apps that are causing you problems.
2. Utilise ‘Hot Corners’
Hot Corners allow you to use the four corners of your Mac’s display as a trigger for invoking one of several configurable actions. Why is this useful? It’s very reliable and guaranteed to work no matter where you are on your Mac. I know for a fact that whenever I place my mouse pointer in the bottom left-hand corner of the screen, my shortcut action will instantly be displayed, every time. To set up Hot Corners on your Mac:
Click on the Apple menu > System Preferences, then do one of the following:
Click Desktop & Screen Saver, then click Screen Saver.
Click Mission Control.
Click Hot Corners.
For each corner you want to use, click the pop-up menu, then choose an option, such as Notification Centre, Launchpad or Lock Screen.
To use one or more modifier keys with the hot corner, press and hold the Command, Shift, Option or Control key while viewing the pop-up menu.
When you’re done, click OK.
3. Customise your Dock and Taskbar
It cannot be emphasised enough that the Mac’s default setup for the Dock and Taskbar are not ideal for high productivity and efficiency, especially for work life. They are unnecessary clutter that can get in the way of your everyday workflows which help us stay on-task and focused. We recommend quickly removing everything except the essentials from your Dock and Taskbar, you can do this by holding [OPTION ⌥] and dragging the icons away to remove them. This is a quick and easy way to have these set up the way you want them, and not have to cope with unwanted distractions.
To add new applications to the Dock right click on them when open > Options > Keep in Dock.
For the Taskbar we also recommend add Bluetooth and Audio control to the Taskbar to easily control devices, especially for those of us who are always jumping back and forth on virtual meetings. To add these to the Taskbar:
Click on the Apple menu > System Preferences, then do one of the following:
Click Bluetooth > Tick the box for Show Bluetooth in menu bar
Click Sound > Tick the box for Show Volume in menu bar
4. Remove the Dock animation
One of the most subtle complaints I see all the time with Mac users in the workplace are the animations that just seem to get in the way. The dock opening animation is minimal and probably won’t bother most people, but I like many others just find it annoying. For this reason we recommend this simple terminal command to alter the autohide delay for the Dock.
To remove the autohide animation, you’ll need to employ the use of a Terminal command. To open Terminal, go to Finder and navigate to Applications > Utilities. Once Terminal is open, simply paste the following command into the Terminal window and press Return on the keyboard:
defaults write com.apple.dock autohide-time-modifier -int 0;killall Dock
5. Memorise the keyboard shortcut for emojis! 💪
Last but not least, it’s a no brainer that we all use more emojis today than ever before, it’s incredible how many people still don’t know about this shortcut on Mac. Simply press [COMMAND ⌘] + [CONTROL ^] + [SPACE] on your Mac keyboard to bring up the handy emoji dialog box to add to your content.
Read more working from home tips & guides:
What’s the BEST way to clean your phone, tablet and laptop screen?
Keeping technology that we all handle everyday as clean and hygienic as possible has never been more important. And if you’re like me, you dream of keeping your devices looking fresh-out-the-box.
It’s never been more important to keep technology we handle every day as clean and hygienic as possible. And if you’re like me, you dream of keeping your devices looking fresh-out-the-box.
Mirroring what you see in promotional shots can feel like an impossible task at times, and it usually is. Apple, Microsoft, Samsung… none of the big players in tech have ever really acknowledged that their products collect plenty of fingerprints and natural oil within seconds of using them. This isn’t really an issue for those that enjoy using tech, but for those that enjoy discussing and photographing our devices, this is a very real issue.
For years I’ve reluctantly relied on a sleeve or a trouser leg to get by but it can feel nauseating catching a glimpse of your new iPhone, iPad or Mac and it looking like it’s spent a week in the hands of a messy toddler. It certainly isn’t what sold you on the device in the first place in Apple’s utopian style advertising. For as long as I can remember I’ve been looking for a professional but simple way of cleaning my devices and I think I have finally found the BEST (not perfect) solution.
This video (Source: 9to5Mac) outlines the best way of cleaning a screen with just a screen cleaning solution and microfibre cloth:
Follow these easy steps as outlined above and you’ll be able to drastically reduce the visible fingerprint marks in your everyday life, and also feel more confident if taking photos of your tech.
Here’s the alcohol-free product that I’ve been using to keep this weekly activity up for my phone, tablet and laptops - Screen Mom - Screen Cleaner Kit – Includes Premium Microfiber Cloth - whilst ensuring that I don’t spray the solution directly onto the screen itself, as it could (very unlikely) seep into the gaps between the screen and the bezel.
Let us know if this works for you and what your routine is for keeping your devices clean and fingerprint free!
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What’s the best way of making coffee at home?
What's the best way of making coffee at home? There are many methods to making your favourite drinks. Find out how here.
Are you ready to learn how to make the best coffee at home?
There are so many advantages to working from home, but one thing can be a huge miss to coffee lovers - a decent barista-style brew. That’s why this guide is here to prove that you can make a delicious cup of coffee at home. In fact, there are many methods to making coffee at home, depending on the time you have available (I see you there sneaking away from your desk…), the type of coffee you like and the budget you have available for tools and accessories.
One thing’s for sure: no instant coffee is allowed here. Sorry not sorry.
But you can make a great cup of coffee for an affordable price.
If there’s one thing I can write about all day long, it’s coffee. Since starting my work from home routine in March 2020, I was determined to find a way to make my favourite beverage without leaving the house. For health and safety reasons, and the fact that all my favourite coffeehouses closed. And mostly because there are two flights of stairs to leave my flat.
I have tried many methods to crafting my much-needed morning cup of Joe at home, and will share what works for me - and what you’ll need to make your own espressos, Americanos and lattes. These guides feature coffee machine reviews, comparison guides on coffee makers and beans, and if you simply must get out of the house, a few ways to get a cup of coffee for free!
If you’re one of the 30.2% of respondents who felt their productivity has decreased since working from home, perhaps it’s time to invest in a coffee maker to help boost your energy levels during your working day!
Disclaimer: Product links on our website are referral links. If you use one of these and buy something, we make a little bit of money. Learn more here.
What types of coffee maker can you buy?
The easiest way to approach coffee making is to decide whether you want to buy a coffee machine like a Nespresso or Dolce Gusto, or use a manual coffeemaker like an Aeropress, cafetière or Hario V60.
You’ve probably already seen that there’s a huge choice of coffee makers that you can buy, so what’s the main differences?
Automatic coffee machines
Nespresso machine
The Nespresso is an iconic capsule-based coffee machine.
An electric coffee machine tends to do it all for you, whether you’re using pods or capsules of coffee designed for that machine, grinding beans to use, or using a bean-to-cup machine. Depending on the complexity of the machine, there’ll be settings you can customise, but it’s much easier to get a great cup of coffee. Some even have built in milk frothers to recreate your favourite cappuccinos or lattes.
Popular at home coffee machines include:
Nespresso
Nescafe Dolce Gusto
De’Longhi Dedica
Tassimo
Read more about the best at home electric coffee machines.
Manual coffeemakers
French press
Nothing’s easier than boiling the kettle then using a French press for a caffeine hit.
A manual coffeemaker is great for a quick drink, and work really well for black coffees like espressos and Americanos (coffees without milk or dairy-free alternatives). You can also control the results much better with a manual coffeemaker, especially when it comes to pour over methods like a V60 or Chemex.
Popular at home manual coffeemakers include:
Hario V60
Chemex
Aeropress
French press/cafetière
Read more about the best at home manual coffeemakers.
What is the best coffee to buy?
Whichever method you of coffee making you decide to try, you need the right coffee beans for the job. There are some brilliant specialist websites for buying ground coffee or coffee beans, and luckily, there are also some brilliant buys available to pick up in your next supermarket sweep or Amazon shop.
Top 5 coffee beans, ground coffee and pods to buy for use at home:
Taylors Hot Lava Java. Not for the faint-hearted, these beloved coffee beans from Taylors of Harrogate are strong and smoky. Buy it here.
Whittard Santos & Java. Available as ready-to-go ground coffee, Whittards of Chelsea’s popular Santos and Java blend is a sweet option with notes of burnt caramel, great as a black coffee. Buy it here.
Grind Coffee. Available in a range of options, including ground, beans and compostible Nespresso capsules, look no further than Grind for a smooth cuppa (and an Instagrammable pink tin too). Buy it here.
Starbucks Blonde Espresso. A mild and affordable option - light-bodied and mellow, available in most supermarkets. Buy it here.
Dolce Gusto Plant-Based Flat White Pods. If you’ve got a Nescafe Dolce Gusto and after a dairy-free latte, you’ll be happy to know they’ve launched a new range of latte pods, available in almond, coconut, and oat varieties. Buy it here.
Quick coffee making hacks you’ll love
Not only does a French press provide a robust way of making your hot morning brew, it’s also great at making cold brew and milk. Read our 3 easy French press hacks to try today to learn more.
Did you say free coffee?
If you are out and about on a well-deserved work from home break, here’s where you can find free coffee in the UK. Drink responsibly!
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The best coffee machines to buy
There are so many automatic coffee machines to choose from, depending on how you like your coffee, your budget, your lifestyle and your kitchen.
How to choose the right automatic coffee machine for your home
As we discussed, there are so many automatic coffee machines to choose from - all with their own pros, cons, and price ranges! Luckily, the result of them is largely the same: a delicious cup of coffee within 5 minutes without leaving the house.
This post won’t get too much into the science of making coffee - but it’s definitely worth researching (take a look at award-winning barista James Hoffmann’s YouTube channel for that!) Instead, this post is here to guide you through the different types of machines available, so you know what suits your budget and your taste.
Imagine having one of these espresso machines at home! 😍
Manual vs. automatic: what’s best?
First of all, why choose a coffee machine over a manual coffeemaker (like an Aeropress or V60)? For those who don’t have the time (or the expertise), then an automatic machine does the hard work of pulling a good espresso for you. If you choose to use a machine that requires coffee beans or ground coffee, you might still need to grind and tamp your coffee first, but once that’s done, the machine will pull the espresso for you. Use a machine that takes capsules and pods and it’s even easier - fill with water and click your chosen pod into place!
Which types of automatic coffee machine are available?
If you decide to choose a machine rather than a manual method of making coffee, you’ll broadly have 3 options to choose from:
A capsule/pod coffee machine
Filter coffee machine
Espresso machine (including bean to cup)
The list is probably a simplified version of what’s available right now, but it’s a helpful start if you’re completely new to coffee making at home.
Let’s take a look at each of these in more detail, along with a few recommendations for each category.
Disclaimer: Product links on our website are referral links. If you use one of these and buy something, we make a little bit of money. Learn more here.
Best capsule coffee machines
Undoubtedly, the easiest way of making delicious coffee at home is by using a pod or capsule-based coffee machine.
Instead of using coffee beans, or ground coffee, you buy a pre-loaded coffee pod, then slot into the machine. The only other steps you’ll need to take is to fill the chamber with water and click the button to get started.
Nespresso vs Dolce Gusto
Machines like the Nespresso are primarily designed for espresso making, using one small capsule per coffee. Then there are machines like the Dolce Gusto, which take one or more pods (although not at the same time!) to create a whole range of coffees, from Americanos to lattes, cappuccinos and mochas. You can even buy pods to create hot chocolates and teas, if you have any family or friends who hate coffee 😱.
Pros:
Huge range of flavours to try
Easy to pick up pods online shopping or supermarket
No mess - throw away the pod after use
No worrying about tamping, grinding or water temperature
Cons:
Pods can work out more expensive than buying bags of coffee
Throwing away pods is a bit wasteful (although there is a great increase in compostable/biodegradable pods - look out for them)
Our pick of the Nespressos
Nespresso machines can get costly. But this compact version by Magimix is a great starter option. The Nespresso 11365 Essenza Mini Coffee Machine, Pure White Finish by Magimix is currently available at Amazon for £89.99 and has a 4.8* rating, with previous purchasers loving it for its compact size and ability to make great tasting espresso and lungo drinks quickly.
From Nespresso:
The Magimix Nespresso Essenza Coffee Machine with updated retro design offers style and performance at the touch of a button. The quick 25 second heat up time and automatic restart, means this smart machine is energy efficient and saves time. With compact design this machine fits in your kitchen. Programmable cup size and sliding cup support is ideal for small or large cups, mugs or latte glasses. This machine is set-up with a high pressure 19 bar pressure and thermo block heating system. With removable used capsule container for 5-6 capsules, a 0.6 L removable water tank, and automatic, programmable water quantity control, this machine couldn't be easier to use.
Our pick of the Dolce Gustos
It’s crazy to think you can get a coffee machine for under £40. This offering from De’Longhi, the DeLonghi Nescafé Dolce Gusto Piccolo XS Pod Capsule Coffee Machine, is currently available for just £34.99 on Amazon. The Piccolo models are smaller than other Dolce Gusto machines, but it’s still more than capable of creating a wide range of coffees, including lattes, cappuccinos, mochas and espressos.
From Dolce Gusto:
Hot and cold drink capability for hot and cold beverages prepared with one easy move of the machine’s manual lever
Easy to clean as all the coffee grinds stay in the pods there is no mess, no fuss
Eco mode: Automatic switch off after 1 minute, energy consumption rating A
Adjustable drip tray suitable for all cup sizes
All in all, the Piccolo is a neat entry-level automatic coffee machine.
Best filter coffee machines
A filter coffee machine, also known as a drip coffee machine, is a much simpler coffee machine by design for a fuss-free cup. You simply add your filter paper, then your ground coffee, and allow the machine to brew then water through the filter into a jug. The jug is usually on a hot plate to keep the resulting coffee nice and warm throughout the day.
Filter coffee machines all have their differences, but they essentially work in the same way.
How to use a filter coffee machine:
Add your paper filter to the filter basket.
Measure your ground coffee and add to the filter. 2 tablespoons of coffee for every 6 ounces of water is recommended.
Measure out your water using the markings on the machine and pour into the reservoir.
Turn the machine on or click the ‘go’ button to start brewing.
Wait until the coffee has finished brewing before you pour it.
Throw away the paper filter.
This Morphy Richards filter coffee machine is a great one to try out for less than £25 on Amazon.
Best espresso machines
These babies are the closest replicas to the classic barista espresso machines in your favourite coffeehouse. As with the other coffee making methods, there is a lot of variety with espresso machines too. You can choose a semi-automatic espresso machine (and a grinder), where you’ll tamp your ground coffee then let the machine pull your espresso, or choose a fully automatic machine that will take your coffee from bean to cup with little input required from you. Plus, the majority of espresso machines also come with an inbuilt milk frother/water spout so you can recreate your favourite latte art at home. (Not mastered this one yet.)
Our pick of espresso machines
De'Longhi Magnifica, Automatic Bean to Cup Coffee Machine, Espresso, Cappuccino, ESAM 4200.S, Silver
Sage SES875BKS The Barista Express Machine, 18/10 Steel, 1700 W, 6 liters, Black Sesame
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