Cyberpunk 2077 Is Finally Coming To PS5 And Xbox Series X/S

By

-

February 16, 2022

CD Projekt Red has released the very extensive patch 1.5 for Cyberpunk 2077 along with a first exclusive next-gen test version for Playstation 5 and Xbox Series X/S.

The development studio CD Projekt Red took more than a year after the release of the action RPG to update to version 1.5 for all consoles and for Windows PC.

The list of new features in this patch 1.5, with which Cyberpunk 2077 finally lives up to what current-generation players deserve. Although the next-gen update is not as extensive as that of the remembered update 1.2, which included more than 500 modifications, but it does not fall short either.

On Playstation 5 and Xbox Series X, it features local ray-traced shadows, along with a host of other graphics enhancements. It is a great advance but, of course, it does not reach the level that we have seen in the PC version, in which, with the combination of ray tracing and DLSS, give spectacular results.

Both on PS5 and on Xbox Series X, you can take advantage of two different modes: Performance and Ray Tracing. The former was designed to play at 60 frames per second in 4K (with dynamic scaling) and reflections in SSR; the second offers compatibility with RT technology, reducing the frame rate to 30 fps and improving the overall quality of reflections.

It should be specified that on Xbox Series S, there is no Ray Tracing mode and that the game is played at 30 fps and 1440p, with reflections in Medium quality. CD Projekt also specifies that, on PS5 and Xbox Series X, “small and rare drops” may occur in Performance mode.

The patch also brings various improvements in visual quality, some of them unspecified, adjustments in wide dynamic range (HDR) mode to equalize the way Cyberpunk 2077 looks on the different platforms on which it is available. And, for the PS5 users, added support for PS5 headset spatial sound (3D) and some DualSense controller-specific features.

Among other things, the city of Night City should now appear livelier with more residents and more traffic. The population should now defend themselves if the players cause too much chaos.

There are more apartments with different furnishings, more options for the appearance of your own character and Johnny Silverhand’s look, additional weapons and changes to the perks.

The driving behavior of cars and motorcycles should appear more believable. There are changes to the prices in the shops so that you can now afford a new virtual vehicle faster – and much more.

Version 1.5 should be available in the respective stores. The download is free for Cyberpunk 2077 owners. On Xbox Series X/S, it is done as a simple update.

The Playstation 5 version must be downloaded separately from the library. If you just download an update, you will also get the latest PS4 version on the PS5.

If you don’t already own Cyberpunk 2077, you can download a free demo on Xbox Series X/S and Playstation 5 and play it for five hours. After that, the rest has to be bought, and you can just keep playing with the same savegame.

How Multi-Layer Security Model Protect Your Online Business

By

Anu Thomas John

-

February 16, 2022

The threats and attacks to which the cybersecurity of companies is exposed are increasing, their number continues to grow, and they are also becoming more complex. This situation means that the traditional tools that offer protection are not enough.

Today’s corporations need solutions with security models that are capable of offering maximum protection to their networks, terminals and data.

We have already seen that the risks to which companies are exposed when working with internet services and applications can occur at different levels. To deal with them, the most optimal thing is to configure, through good security measures that offer multiple layers of defence, so that the attack that penetrates one of them can be stopped at the next layer.

Contents

1 A Multi-Layered Defense To Protect Your Business

A Multi-Layered Defense To Protect Your Business

System-level security

It is the last line of defence against threats and attacks on the internet and is the first step to configure in any security strategy. A good security system must meet certain characteristics — the system must be backed by a professional company that responds to any incident, and it must have quality seals that guarantee its proper functioning.

Network-level security

These types of measures control access to network systems. Today, a network-level security tool, like NordLayer, with a built-in firewall covers this vulnerability by using multi-layered network security features. NordLayer protects your system by setting up virtual locations for your organization and preventing unauthorized data access. It also auto-connects to a VPN server as soon as an internet connection is detected and share files endpoint-to-endpoint when multiple user devices are connected to NordLayer.

Application-level security

They control user interaction with specific applications. As these services are very vulnerable to misuse by unauthorized users, the security measures must take into account the risks of the server and the client. Application security can include hardware, software, and procedures that identify or minimize security vulnerabilities. Application-level security is important because today’s applications are often available across multiple networks and connected to the cloud — increasing vulnerabilities to dangers and security threats.

Transmission-level security

They protect data communications that occur within the network and between multiple networks. If the data is not applied, it will be visible to anyone who wants to see and use it.

To deal effectively with internet threats and attacks and have comprehensive protection, the entire company must have a security policy that must be implemented together with the security strategy for each layer, as well as establishing how the interaction of the different strategies.

6 useful free apps for online students

By

Prabhul Kurup

-

February 15, 2022

Online education boomed in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic. It is still going on now: students appreciated the opportunity to improve their qualifications or get a new speciality literally without leaving home. Unfortunately, many just don’t have enough motivation to make it to the finish line. According to EdMarket Research, only 59% of students complete the program.

Contents

1 Stay Focusd
2 Evernote
3 Recordium
4 Honeygain
5 Clockwork Tomato
6 FBReader
7 Speechnotes

Stay Focusd

An Android app and Chrome extension that helps combat an actively time-eating Internet addiction. If you are studying and want to concentrate on the material, use the installed application to block all the entertainment sites that you used to visit in every free minute: for example, social networks, blogs, YouTube. This app helps me when I need to do my excel homework and concentrate a lot.

Stay Focusd allows you to completely block a resource for a certain period on a one-time basis (for example, for 2 hours during which an online lesson is in progress) or regularly. Rebooting your phone doesn’t throw off the app’s settings. You can also request information about time spent on different sites – a proven time-management tool!

There is an app for iOS called SelfControl with similar features.

Evernote

Symbiosis of the planner and notepad, which is always on hand. It differs from other similar applications by the function of forming convenient lists of notes, as well as the possibility of the visual design of records.

Evernote can be used for the storage of important files of your own, to save in it the whole web pages that may be necessary. Feedback from users has shown that Evernote is even useful for planning daily household chores and is indispensable when it comes to studying. Making a list of things to do for the day and keeping track of important information will do you a great favor. Relying on your memory is a bad idea, especially with an active rhythm of life. A premium account gives you advanced features.

The app works with Android, iOS, and as an extension in PC browsers.

Recordium

A voice recorder that will surprise you. Unlike the built-in phone OS, as well as most similar applications, Recordium not only records the speech but also allows you to highlight the important moments in the recording with color. Just imagine: in a boring 2-hour lecture you can put markers of really significant places that you will have to listen to again. Using the app, you will save yourself from having to scroll through the entire recording or keep the time codes in your head.

The app works with iOS.

Honeygain

Honeygain is a passive income app that will pay you real money in exchange for your unused internet connection. The app works as a crowdsourced web intelligence network, and it can help earn some extra income without effort or any investments. That makes it a perfect option for students, since getting a job might be impossible due to the lack of time. This app is safe and extremely easy to use, all you have to do in order to start earning is download the app and register.

The app works on Andriod, IOS, macOS, Windows, and Linux platforms.

Clockwork Tomato

An effective timer app for regulating study and rest. Its working principle is based on the famous Pomodoro Technique, which suggests alternating between intense work and short rest times. Professionals from EssayAssistant highly recommend this app.

In the standard version, this ratio is 25 minutes to 5 minutes, but you can set the time intervals yourself, make them one-time or cyclic, provide a long break after passing several intervals. The app notifies you of the end of a work or rest period with a pleasant sound that you can change in the settings. Clockwork Tomato is good because it allows you to focus on work, but it also reminds you to rest.

Works on the Android platform.

FBReader

If you have to pass through a lot of text materials or read specialized literature while studying, it’s worth installing the classic “reader” application on your phone. FBReader supports popular e-book formats, allows you to choose a pleasant background for the text, increases the font, reduces the overall contrast. The files in the library are conveniently sorted. A simple but extremely useful application that replaces a separate e-book.

There are the same apps for Android and iOS.

Speechnotes

A useful app for university students and those taking online courses. The program is based on a speech recognition algorithm that allows you to take notes by reading out the text. The application converts verbal speech into written text, producing a text of acceptable quality. It can be used both for writing down a long lecture and for quick notes while watching a lesson. The intuitive interface allows you to take notes on the run, and you can edit the text even while recording.

The app works on Android and PC.

Auxiliary educational mobile applications for students can make life easier for people studying online. With their help, it is possible to plan time, make task lists, take notes, focus on current affairs, and even improve memory and other cognitive skills. All of the presented applications are free, but some of them offer expanded functionality at the expense of a commercial subscription.

15 Of The 23 Monkeys Have Died: The Apes With Elon Musk’s Neuralink Implants Were Subjected To Extreme Suffering

By

Avinash A

-

February 14, 2022

Monkey Playing Video Games With His Mind

Neuralink, Elon Musk’s company engaged in the development of implantable microchips in the brain that allow disabled people to better interact with the world around them, is at the center of controversy in the United States.

No human brain has yet been touched. Tests have been carried out on monkeys and pigs.

In 2020 they demonstrated the technology with a pig. Musk’s company assured that everything was going smoothly and released a video in 2021 in which Pager the monkey could be seen playing the Pong video game using only his mind after a while using a joystick.

Now Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, a non-profit organization that has over 17,000 doctors in its ranks, accuses the researchers of subjecting monkeys to unlawful mistreatment and “extreme suffering” while testing brain implants for Neuralink.

The conclusion came after analyzing more than 700 pages of documents, veterinary records and reports obtained through a transparency request made to the University of California Davis. The results of the investigation have also determined that the animals were mistreated.

In addition, the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine will file a formal complaint with the US Department of Agriculture against Neuralink. The Physician Committee points out in its complaint that “Neuralink and UC Davis staff failed to provide dying monkeys with adequate veterinary care, used an unapproved substance known as ‘Bioglue’ that killed monkeys by destroying portions of their brains, and failed to provide for the psychological well-being of monkeys assigned to the experiment.”

Only 7 of the 23 monkeys sent to Neuralink have survived the experiments between 2017 and 2020. The startup has severed its relations with the University of California Davis. UC Davis has received over $1.4 million from Neuralink to carry out the experiments.

The Role of Application Maintenance and Support in the Software Development Lifecycle

By

Subith

-

February 14, 2022

When building new software to supplement their businesses, most people have some sort of long-term goal for their applications. Rarely does anyone have an app developed with the intent of running it temporarily. A software application is an investment that the owner wishes to see grow and prosper over many, many years. Therefore, as an app owner, you need to have certain application maintenance and support protocols in place.

First, let us go over the software development process and its various stages. Then, we will go over the key reasons why application maintenance and support services are an important part of app development.

Contents

1 The Process of App Development
2 Why Application Maintenance and Support Is Paramount

The Process of App Development

In the first half of this write-up, we will talk about the typical software development process, which involves five basic steps.

Step 1: First, you need to conduct proper research into your app and define what you want to accomplish with the final product. You explore your options, compare your ideas with potential competitors, research the market, and then decide whether your app idea is viable or not. In this stage, you also need to clearly define your vision for this software application. Then comes the question of budgets and timelines.

Regardless of the development method you choose to follow, estimating your costs and deadlines plays a crucial role in the execution of your software product idea.

Step 2: Once the idea for your app is finalized and you know the direction that you want it to go in, you must come up with a suitable and relevant design for it. This involves not only laying out the outward appearance of your software application but also designing the overall experience you want to give to the users who choose to use your app.

Step 3: Then comes the development phase, in which the design and concept from the first two phases are translated into a real working application via extensive coding (also known as programming). The developers will create a front end (user-facing side of the app) and a corresponding back end (where all the hidden functions happen that make the front end do what it is meant to do).

Step 4: When programming is complete, you will require expert QA engineers and testers to check your app thoroughly for any bugs (errors) or flaws. They will prepare your software for launch.

Step 5: Now that your software is free of errors, it is ready to be released to your target market. At this stage, you can employ suitable marketing tactics to make sure that your software reaches its intended audience. For mobile apps, it is typical to launch them on the Android and/or iOS app store.

Is that all there is to the development process? NO!

Bonus 6th step: The last phase in the software development process involves the maintenance and support for the completed app. Many clients think that the fifth stage wraps up the software development lifecycle and do not think they would require any further application maintenance services. This signifies a weighty oversight on their part.

What do you plan to do with your app now that it is in the market, being used by hundreds or thousands of people? You wouldn’t just abandon your project and let all the hard work go to waste, would you? Head over to the next section to read about why application support services and regular maintenance can play a pivotal role in the prosperity of your software product.

Why Application Maintenance and Support Is Paramount

While there is a long list of reasons why app support and maintenance is a critical part of the SDLC, we will talk about the three most important ones below.

Provide Consistent Support to Users

Once your app is released in the market, you would want to make sure that it stays up and running. If at any point after the release, the users run into even a minor problem, it would reflect badly on your business and the brand image you might have spent years curating. With the global influence of technology on our daily lives, even the slightest downtime could cause serious losses to your business. As patience runs thin and attention spans shorten, users are quick to look into substitute products and services.

With dedicated application support services, you can tackle such a situation efficiently and effectively. With a support team on standby, you can cater to each and every user’s needs as required. If they are facing trouble using your app, your team can help them out with live support via call, chat, or email, as deemed suitable according to the level of seriousness and urgency. If the team at hand is unable to address a certain user’s troubles on the go, you can advance their fault report to level 2 or level 3 support teams so that the core issue can be fixed as quickly as possible.

Stay Relevant

This factor is also partially linked to the previous point where we discussed the rapidly evolving consumer behavior which most users exhibit these days. General user behavior indicates that they would prefer to use an app that is compatible with all kinds of platforms and mobile devices and does not become irrelevant after some time.

There are two aspects of application maintenance and support that are relevant to our discussion. The first one pertains to the independent growth of your app. (Read extra-carefully if you are a startup owner!) When the popular social media application Facebook was first launched, do you think it had the extensive audience that it does now? Absolutely not! It has grown over the years, as more and more people signed up and became regular users. The company now invests heavily in the mobile app as well as the website. The same concept can apply to all kinds of software products. As your user base increases, you will have to update your app so it can handle the increased technical loads. The second aspect is related to the way that technology has been advancing, especially over the last few years. With digital growth, your app should offer its users a seamless experience that is in touch with the latest trends.

Thus, application maintenance services play an essential role in making sure that your app stays in the game and does not lag behind.

Fix Cyber-Security Lapses

Another major reason why every app needs to be regularly updated is the fact that cybercrime keeps evolving by the second. Attackers keep coming up with innovative ways to compromise app security and access private information. To make sure that your app provides a safe experience to your users, it is extremely crucial to make regular security updates to your app as part of your application maintenance and support protocol.

Second Most Played Title On Steam: Amazon’s Lost Ark Has Been Played By Over 1.3 Million People

By

Vishak

-

February 13, 2022

Since Lost Ark was released last Friday, the game published by Amazon as the publisher has enjoyed great popularity.

According to SteamDB, a whopping 1,325,305 people were online at the same time. As per the database, Lost Ark attracted more players than Counter-Strike Global Offensive and Dota 2.

Lost Ark was developed by Smilegate RPG, a South Korean studio and is published by Amazon Games. The F2P title takes place in a fictional world called Arkesias, which has to be rid of evil in typical fashion.

Like many action RPGs, Lost Ark uses an isometric perspective, but it is clearly an MMO in terms of gameplay. The focus is more on PvE (Player versus Environment), but at level 26, the PvP mode (Player versus Player) is unlocked.

Only PUBG is in first place with a maximum of 3.257 million players by a clear margin. It should be noted that CSGO is still subject to a fee, and PUBG was at least until a few weeks ago. Dota 2 and Lost Ark, on the other hand, are free-to-play titles funded by microtransactions.

When it was first released in South Korea, Lost Ark set a record for the number of players there in December 2019, and now also in North America and Europe. An exception is Belgium and the Netherlands, where the title is not available due to its loot boxes and corresponding gambling laws.

Graphically, Lost Ark, with its D3D11 renderer, is one of the nicer MMOs. The system requirements are not excessively high, as is typical for free-to-play: A Core i3 or Ryzen 3 with 8 GB of RAM and a Geforce GTX 460 or Radeon HD 6850 should already be enough.

Intel Confirms Its Entry Into The Crypto Space With Blockchain Accelerator Chips

By

Bhasker Das

-

February 12, 2022

Intel’s interest in the crypto space began to be talked about in January, when the existence of the ASIC Bonanza Mine and the agreement with a startup in the crypto mining sector called GRIID leaked. But at that time company had not made any comments so far, but today it has decided to come out.

Intel Corporation has officially confirmed plans to enter the market of specialized blockchain and mining accelerators.

Raja Koduri, Senior Vice President, General Manager, Accelerated Computing Systems and Graphics Group at Intel, has confirmed that in 2022 the company will release a dedicated Bonanza Mine processor for cryptocurrency mining to early Intel customers, including former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey Block (formerly Square), as well as mining companies Argo Blockchain and GRIID Infrastructure.

Intel has not yet disclosed the technical characteristics of the new chip, more detailed information about it will be presented on February 23 at the ISSCC (International Solid-State Circuits Conference). However, the head of Koduri claims that its performance per watt is 1000 times higher than conventional mining GPUs based on the SHA-256 algorithm.

These new Intel chips, unlike other components and hardware designed specifically to optimize hashrate, is not intended as a solution specifically targeting the cryptocurrency industry but instead points to the broader blockchain ecosystem.

Intel says its chip is an energy-efficient “accelerator” designed to speed up the processing of blockchain tasks that require huge computing power and therefore consume a lot of energy.

Meta Exits Cryptocurrency: Diem Closes And Sells Its Assets

By

Sabarinath

-

February 12, 2022

Facebook parent company Meta has exited cryptocurrency project Diem. Diem was founded under the name Libra by the group then known as Facebook and, as a stablecoin, was intended to be a safer alternative to more volatile cryptocurrencies.

Now Diem Association has confirmed that it is shutting down and has sold its Diem Payments Network assets for $200 million to Silvergate, a crypto-focused bank it had been working with since. The sale had already been rumoured at the end of January 2022.

Diem decided to cease its activity after it became clear to its members that federal regulators were not going to allow the project to go forward. In the official press release on the sale, the Diem Association does not go into details but says that the project was rated positively by the technical side.

However, its CEO, Stuart Levy, has indicated that they are “confident in the potential for a stablecoin operating on a blockchain designed like Diem’s to deliver the benefits that motivated the Diem Association from the beginning. With today’s sale, Silvergate will be well-placed to take this vision forward.”

This sale, yes, puts an end to Mark Zuckerberg’s dream of launching his own cryptocurrency through Facebook. A dream that he has been trying to make a reality for a little over two years now, with a project that has never been without controversy.