Computers

Most people don’t spend time thinking about Secure Boot. (Not even the staff at PCWorld.) But this Windows security feature provides a vital protection against dangerous malware—one some PCs have just lost. So what is Secure Boot, exactly? And why should you pay attention to all the recent news about it? The situation is more complex than you might guess. It also requires a little manual work…

Are Microsoft’s core productivity apps — Word, Excel, and PowerPoint — endangered by the rise of AI? That’s the point that Bloomberg and its sources addressed in coverage this week, noting that Microsoft is being buffeted by AI disruption as its stock plunges. “Whether Microsoft Word or Excel will be rendered obsolete by AI remains to be seen,” said Jack Ablin, chief investment…

You’ve probably seen countless warnings lately about Windows and expiring Secure Boot certificates. Why? Some PCs haven’t gotten the updates yet—and won’t unless you take action. That’s the first problem. The second? Even if you do prep your machine appropriately, you may not get the new certificates immediately. Here’s what you should know, how to stay safe online until your PC gets…

Prices for RAM have risen significantly recently, and this is hitting many PC users particularly hard, especially when it comes to DDR5 modules. A current 32-gigabyte kit will cost you around $400 in 2026, depending on the clock speed and latencies. Prices can be even higher for well-known brands and faster modules. If you’ve only recently upgraded or are using an otherwise well-optimized…