4 Alternatives to Skype on Linux for Those Having Trouble

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Skype. Everyone’s heard of it. Chances are when you think of video or audio chatting on a computer, Skype comes to mind. Recently Microsoft updated their Skype platform (on everything but Linux). This has caused Linux Skype users to not be able to place calls or use the service in general.

With Skype (Microsoft) dumping Linux users, you might also want to return the favour. Here’s a list of decent alternatives to Microsoft’s ever-popular program. Each one on the list has its own strengths and weaknesses. There are many alternatives to Skype, and this list covers the four most popular.

1. Google Hangouts

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The most serious contender to Microsoft’s Skype: Google Hangouts. Hangouts is to Google as Skype is to Microsoft. It’s the search giant’s cross-platform messaging system. You can add your friends and talk to them via instant message on all available platforms. You can also video and voice chat via a web browser.

The reason Hangouts is number one is this: It doesn’t need a client to run, and almost everybody has a Google Account. That’s really the barrier to entry for this program. If you’re looking to get into an audio or video call with friends, you don’t need much. All that’s required to be installed on your Linux computer is the Google Hangouts plugin and a modern browser (though Chrome is recommended). If you have a browser, you can use Hangouts.
2. Firefox Hello

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Those who want a viable Skype alternative yet are anti-Google should check out Firefox Hello. It’s Mozilla’s answer to both Microsoft and Google. All that’s required is an installation of Firefox (the default browser on 99% of Linux distributions). Hello itself is powered by Telefonia.

The best part about Hello is that there’s no sign-in required. You can use it just fine without an account, and everything works well. However, it would probably be a good idea to click the sign-up button inside the App. To launch Hello, just click the speech bubble in Firefox.
3. Jitsi

 
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Meet Jitsi: a free and open-source alternative to Skype that supports video, calling and messaging. All messaging done with Jitsi is with the XMPP protocol and is encrypted end-to-end to respect your privacy. The project claims to also respect your software freedom, as it’s completely open-source via the GNU general public licence.

What sets Jitsi apart from the rest on this list is the fact that it has support for other platforms. Surge, by default it’s preferable that you use the Jitsi XMPP service, but if you’re not a fan of that it’s possible to add your own SIP account information in, as well as add other networks like Facebook, Google, AIM and others. If you’re looking for a feature-filled replacement for Skype, give Jitsi a go.
4. Tox

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Tox is an alternative to Skype that is built on the idea that conversations should be private. The project aims to lock out the rise of government monitoring systems and provide a private area where users can video, voice or text chat with family and friends. This service is available on Linux via qTox but on all other major platforms as well. Even BSD!

Note: Tox is ultimately a protocol, and thus has other clients. If you can’t find qTox, try uTox.
If you’re annoyed at what Microsoft has done to Skype on Linux and aren’t interested in relying on a company that doesn’t have Linux in mind, check out Tox. It’s not as polished as something like Hello or Hangouts, but it’s still worth your time nonetheless.
Conclusion
Microsoft has never taken Linux seriously when it comes to their products. They don’t see it as a gain. The only real reason that Linux even has a Skype client is because before Microsoft purchased it there was a client. If you’re a Linux user you need to get away from this service as soon as possible.

Microsoft has shown in the past that they have no interest in supporting Linux, and that fact is even more solidified with the latest update to the platform. Every alternative on this list is a great alternative and worthy of taking the place Skype has in your life on the Linux platform.

Tags:-video calling,alternative ways to do video calling,windows,

5 Tips to Tighten Your Browser’s Security

 

Security is one of the biggest concerns of Internet users, and there seems to be no bulletproof way to protect yourself in this online world. However, you can still take some security measures to tighten up online security. As the browser is the gateway to the Internet, it is best to ensure your browser is secure and the least vulnerable to attacks.

Below we have listed five browser security tips that should work on all types of browsers and keep you secure while browsing the web.

1. Check the Browser’s Privacy and Security SettingsThere are some common Privacy and Security settings in all browsers that you should check out and configure according to your needs. These options are mostly located inside the main settings of the browser, but you will have to explore a bit as each browser has a different user interface. The following are some of the most common privacy and security options for browsers.

Click to play Plug-ins: You should set plug-in content to “Click to play.” This will not play any plug-in content (like audio and video) automatically until you allow it to play, thus protecting you from malicious plug-in content.

Disable JavaScript: You should only disable JavaScript if you don’t want to take any risks at all because most websites use JavaScript to provide important features. However, JavaScript is also known to be vulnerable, so it is best to disable JavaScript if it doesn’t affect your browsing too much.

Disable Autofill: The autofill feature of your browser is great and lets you automatically fill forms, but this also means anyone can access your personal data if they get access to your PC. You should disable autofill if you think anyone else might access your PC (this includes remote access as well).

Disable Third-party Cookies: If you are concerned about your privacy, then you should disable third-party cookies. Disabling all types of cookies isn’t recommended as they are required for logins, etc., but you can disable third-party cookies to avoid usage tracking.
2. Keep Your Browser Updated

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It is extremely important to use the latest version of your browser all the time. Browsers are frequently updated with security measures against the latest threats, and using an updated browser is the only way to ensure you benefit from the protection. Most popular browsers update themselves automatically, but make sure you keep the updater running all the time even if it uses some of your PC’s resources.
3. Keep a Tab on Extensions and Plugins

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Sometimes malicious extensions sneak in while installing programs and harm your browsing experience and may even steal information. Check all the extensions/plugins installed in your browser, and delete the ones you don’t use or the ones you don’t remember installing. Repeat this process often, especially when your browser is acting up. If you are skeptical about any extension, just do a search on Google to check its reputation and see what it does.
4. Use a Good Anti-Virus Program

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Having a good anti-virus is extremely important for a PC’s security as well as a browser’s security. Adware and PUP (potentially unwanted programs) can damage your browsing experience including tracking web sessions, show ads or clutter your browser. A good anti-virus program will keep most of these programs at bay – even the free anti-virus programs can do that. You can use Avast, Bitdefender or the new SecureAPlus anti-virus program.
5. Use Third-Party Security Extensions
There are many third-party extensions that will secure your browsing experience one way or another. Below are two popular ones.

Web of Trust: This is a community-based extension that rates websites to easily check their reputation. It marks trusted websites as “Green,” malicious websites as “Red,” and doubtful ones as “Yellow.” These ratings are based on millions of users of Web of trust who rate and comment. It also supports all the popular browsers.

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HTTPS Everywhere: It replaces “http” access of the sites with “https.” HTTPS is an encrypted access to protect against hijacking and surveillance, and this extension will help encrypt the connection with unsupported websites. It doesn’t make all the websites “https” but still covers most of them. It supports Chrome, Firefox and Opera.

Conclusion
To surf the Internet securely, you need to make sure your browser is configured to offer optimum protection. The above-mentioned tips should tighten up your browser security and help you securely browse the Web. Apart from these tips, there are also many other ways to secure your browser. Do a little search and you may find the right solution for your needs. Maybe a good VPN service will give you all the protection you need – the options are there; you just need to explore.

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Tags:security,privacy,Tips to Tighten Your Browser’s Security

How to Fix Runtime Error 217

Did you find issues related to runtime while dealing with the PC at your place? The write-up is about the runtime errors and how to fix such issues. They are the issues that evolved due to installation problems. Apart from these problems there is little more notable stuff that creates such issues. Nevertheless you surely want to get rid of this right? Runtime error 217 is one such irritating error message, that you often get. Here are the basic reasons, for which you get such message.

Reasons to get message of Runtime error 217​

• During installation of a program, DLL registration errors are often found. The runtime error 217 is often found due to failure of DLL registration.​
• If you are having a related program, then a collision between them at the booting session is quite possible. The error is shown at that time too.​
• If some of the windows registry files are missing, the message pops up in your screen.​
• Chances of showing the message is more, if your PC is infected with virus or malware.​
• If the installation is incomplete, chances to find the message is more.​

                                      How to resolve the issue in windows 7?

The error message of 217 is seen more often at the time of start-up. For windows 7 and windows 8 or 10, the method of resolving the issue is different. Here is the method of resolving the issue in Windows 7.

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• Go to the search box, after clicking on the start icon, at the screen’s right corner. Type there – msconfig.exe and put enter. You might need to give the administrator password there to proceed.​
• Click selective start-up option from general tab and from the list uncheck the option – Load start-up.​
• After that, get to the service tab and you will find a checkbox to hide all Microsoft services. Check out that and disable the button stating all. Once you do this, at the time of start-up, only the Microsoft items will be invoked and all other performance will be disabled.​
• After you have completed the level, press OK and restart the system, the problem is resolved.​

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How to Clear Cache and Cookies in Google Chrome with Shortcuts

Google Chrome’s cache can be easily cleared from settings tab of through the keyboard shortcut. It is totally your choice to clear data and apart from selecting that, you can as well choose the time period until when you want to clear data. Clearing cache in Chrome will help your hard drive function smoothly and also, it is an effective way to deal with troubleshooting browser problems and make your browser work fast without crashing.​

Steps for How to Clear Cache and Cookies in Google Chrome with Shortcuts

These steps are ideally suitable for the latest version of Google chrome. However, the steps won’t differ much in any other (older) version of Google chrome either. The steps to be followed are quite simple and once you clear chrome cache, it will help you use your system more efficiently.

Step 1: First of all, go to the chrome menu situated on the right end, near the address bar.

Step 2: From here, go to Tools -> Clear browsing data. In case you are a person more inclined towards working with keyboard shortcuts, you can do the same withCtrl + Shift + Delete and do away with the previous steps. This step will directly do the work for you.


Step 3: Next, you will get a popup on your screen where you will be able to clear cache in Chrome. This will allow you to clear browser cache in chrome and similar browsing data. (if you want to delete it)


Step 4: Here, we will be focusing on how to clear cache chrome, simply tick mark on theEmpty the cache and untick mark rest of the options. In order to clear cache Chrome, it is advisable that you choose beginning of time in the drop down. Here, click on Clear browsing data and you will be done.

How to Block Caller ID on iPhone 4,5,6- Disable or Hide Caller Id

 

Caller ID is the (yours) name and number displayed on iPhones while you call someone. Whereas, once you block caller id on iPhone, the person receiving the call will not be able to view your details. Some people be like I would rather block my number on iPhone rather than let them have my number. You can as well permanently block Caller ID, or some particular calls, etc. However, it depends on if you are using a cell phone or the regular landline.

Note: There are certain countries which do not let people block caller id on iPhone, and therefore, if you don’t have the option available, it means your country does not support the same.

And there you have your answers to how to block my number on iPhone. These two simple and easy methods shall help you block your number on iPhone.

I hope the article was helpful and now you have successfully managed to block your caller ID on iPhone. So the next time you are calling somebody you don’t wish to have your number or call you back again, you know what you should do. Pretty much simple and easy!

Or maybe you could as well prank someone, but only unless its within the limit and not harmful to anyone in anyway. No more of irritating calls from random people having your number!

Temporarily blocking your Caller ID (Specific contact/call)

This is more of a country specific kind of an option and the code that is to be used here shall be different for different places. Also, different phone carriers have different codes that will let you hide your caller ID on iPhone. For example, here if we use the number 212-555-5555, you will need to find the code that shall disable the viewing of your caller ID.

Here, for example, the number after the disabler code, looks like #31# 555-5555. This was for in case you want to block your caller ID for a particular call.

However, if you want to block iPhone caller ID for a particular contact, you must save the contact number and the next time or every time you called, your caller ID shall remain hidden.

How to Check Your Laptop Battery Condition Health

 

Guys today I am sharing with you such a knowledge which every laptop user should know for using it’s laptop battery safely and in optimized way; as we have seen that our laptop battery goes to dead condition after a little time. Now I will share with you such a useful information by using it you can be aware about your battery health, performance and also can increase the laptop battery lifetime. You will know what your battery lifetime charging, discharging, charging capacity, battery company and many other information required for a battery even the full report on battery with just simple and easy steps. First discussion is about battery health; so test it.
How to Check Laptop Battery Health ?
Battery health is very important for lifetime of a battery; if you know about battery health; you can use your laptop battery in better and economic way. For checking your battery health
 just follow these simple steps :

Run the Command Prompt on your windows as an administrator

After opening cmd; just write this code ” powercfg -energy ” and wait for a minute
Now goto the default directory which will be given in cmd for checking your laptop battery health report

Now examine everything regarding your battery health and many other things

Here is some screenshots of my laptop battery health; and now I am using it in safe and easy way after knowing about my battery health as It was decreasing day by day and now it is stable ;
                                                               Screenshots


 

Tags:-windows

HOW TO SEE WHO IS STEALING YOUR WI-FI AND BLOCK THEM

Hey guys so here i am back again teach you new thing, It's been a long time since i posted any article due to some reasons,now come back to the the point.

As we all know that now a days every have a smartphone and almost everyone is using internet by wifi. everyone who have installed wifi at therer home and want that only limited person use  it.So,for this purpose i will tell you about two apps which will help you to know that how many people are connected to your wifi and also you will have authorisation to block their internet access.

FIRST APPLICATION IS FLING

After the installation of this application, open it, then all devices connect to your wireless router in detail will be present. To get more information about any device in its name, touch, there will be more information. The task of this application is finished here, to put an end to unnecessary connections  best way is  that you change the password for your Wi-Fi. 

BUT if you want to block other people internet  access you must  use wifikill pro

This application is very interesting. Through this you can easily save your internet. The funniest thing is that the device you want to stop Internet  device will be connected to the network but will not get any internet access.
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Tags:- internet,educational,security