Unnecessary replacement of hardware leads to higher costs and growing waste problem


More than three quarters (77 percent) of IT decision makers say that their organization has a fixed time frame for replacing hardware. 14 percent replace every year, 30 percent every two years and 33 percent every three years.
A survey of 400 US and UK decision makers from Scalable Software suggests this leads to unnecessary upgrades and increased costs and can also have a negative environmental impact.
How AI is set to democratize information [Q&A]


One of the features of AI is its ability to process large volumes of data to identify patterns and make information more accessible.
We spoke to Igor Jablokov, CEO and founder of Pryon, about how enterprises can take advantage of this ability and make better use of their data.
Fedora Linux 41 is here: Ditch Windows 11 for a fresh open-source experience


If you’re tired of Windows 11’s limitations and crave a more open, customizable environment, Fedora Linux 41 might be the answer. This latest release of Fedora Linux arrives early, with new features that cater to both power users and those looking to get more out of their computers. With a strong foundation in open-source technology and support from an active community, Fedora Linux 41 combines stability, versatility, and the latest desktop environments. It’s a solid choice for anyone considering a switch from Windows.
Fedora Linux 41 provides a polished experience with updates across GNOME and KDE, enhancing desktop options. GNOME 47 now comes with Fedora Workstation, introducing a new default terminal, Ptyxis, that offers a lightweight option for command-line tasks. KDE Plasma users will appreciate the latest Plasma 6.2, offering seamless improvements, including built-in drawing tablet configuration, better HDR support for multimedia, and accessibility options like Sticky Keys and color-blindness filters. Fedora’s attention to detail here makes both GNOME and KDE feel snappy and modern, unlike the sometimes cumbersome experience of Windows.
Apple launches new compact Mac mini with M4 and M4 Pro chips


Apple has rolled out an updated Mac mini, now powered by its latest M4 and M4 Pro chips and featuring a smaller 5-by-5-inch design. With up to 1.8 times the CPU performance and 2.2 times the GPU power of the original M1 model, the new Mac Mini seems to be packing more muscle into a smaller space. The M4 Pro model promises even more processing power for users with demanding workloads, offering up to 14 CPU cores and 20 GPU cores.
One key addition is the enhanced connectivity, especially the inclusion of front-facing ports, which many users have been waiting for. Apple has added two USB-C ports at the front for quick and easy access, along with a high-impedance audio jack. Around back, the M4 model includes three Thunderbolt 4 ports, while the M4 Pro gets an upgrade to Thunderbolt 5, designed to deliver faster data transfer speeds.
New solution for safe enterprise AI deployment


GenAI is set to drive significant productivity gains, leading to massive economic growth, but enterprises face the challenge of deploying GenAI systems at scale and safely connecting to data systems while ensuring proper controls and governance.
To address this Securiti is releasing Gencore AI, a first of its kind holistic solution to easily and quickly build safe, enterprise-grade GenAI systems, copilots and AI agents.
Data governance needs to be made ready for AI


Improving data quality (42 percent), security (40 percent), and analytics (40 percent) remain top data governance drivers, but in 2024 ensuring data readiness and quality for AI (34 percent) has made the list as the fourth most cited driver of data governance programs.
A report from Quest Software and ESG (Enterprise Strategy Group) also shows organizations report evolving data and governance to an AI-ready state (33 percent) as a top three bottleneck impacting the data value chain, behind understanding the quality of source data (38 percent) and tied with finding, identifying and harvesting data assets (33 percent).
Enterprises vulnerable to look-alike domains


According to a new report, 80 percent of registered web domains that resemble a Global 2000 brand do not actually belong to that brand.
The report from enterprise-class domain registrar CSC shows that of the homoglyph (look-alike fake) domains owned by third parties other than the Global 2000 brand owners, 42 percent have MX records (email exchange records) compared with 40 percent in 2023. These MX records can be used to send phishing emails or to intercept email.
Crucial DDR5 Pro Overclocking Gaming Memory reaches new 6400 MT/s speeds


Crucial has introduced an updated version of its DDR5 Pro Overclocking (OC) Gaming Memory, now featuring speeds of 6400 megatransfers per second (MT/s). These enhanced speeds aim to improve gameplay smoothness and potentially boost frame rates. This release follows the initial DDR5 Pro OC model launched earlier this year, which offered speeds of 6000 MT/s.
With twice the data rate of DDR4 and 25 percent lower latency, the DDR5 Pro OC Gaming Memory is designed for users who prioritize speed and efficiency. Leveraging Micron’s 1ß (1-beta) DRAM node technology, Crucial has focused on balancing performance, quality, and reliability. Additionally, the DDR5 Pro OC Gaming Memory supports both Intel XMP and AMD EXPO standards, giving users broader compatibility across platforms, in contrast to some products that are limited to just one standard.
Compliance with NIS2 comes at a cost


With the EU's NIS2 directive now starting to roll out, aiming to achieve a high level of cybersecurity across member states, a new survey commissioned by Veeam shows the significant impact implementation is having on businesses.
The study, carried out by Censuswide, reveals that while 68 percent of companies report receiving the necessary additional budget for NIS2 compliance, 20 percent identify budget as being a significant barrier to achieving compliance.
Shoppers willing to hand over personal data to get a holiday bargain


A new survey from Norton shows that 60 percent of UK holiday shoppers say they are swayed by good holiday deals and nearly two-thirds (61 percent) give away their personal information to receive a discount when shopping.
The study reveals that 70 percent of Brits have tried to secure discount codes, through means like signing up to a website's mailing list or answering a survey. 61 percent of those who tried to secure discounts admit to divulging their personal information to do so.
Apple introduces new iMac with M4 chip


Apple has introduced an updated iMac, now powered by its M4 chip, promising faster performance in a familiar, thin design. This new iMac is up to 1.7 times quicker for everyday tasks and offers a 2.1 times improvement in handling demanding applications, like gaming and photo editing, when compared to the previous M1 model. The M4 chip, featuring a 12-core CPU and a GPU with Apple’s advanced graphics architecture, aims to make daily multitasking, productivity, and creative workflows feel more responsive.
A notable addition is Apple Intelligence, an AI-driven system integrated with the iMac’s Neural Engine, designed to enhance how users work and communicate. It includes system-wide writing tools for tasks like proofreading and summarizing, and a redesigned Siri with expanded capabilities for answering questions and managing tasks. Apple Intelligence is focused on privacy, processing tasks on-device and using secure cloud resources for more complex requests.
Gen AI adoption increases across key business functions


A new study reveals that 72 percent of business leaders report using Gen AI at least once a week, up from 37 percent in 2023.
The report by The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, in collaboration with GBK Collective, shows a dramatic rise in generative AI adoption across key business functions, as enterprises move from cautious exploration to rapid integration.
Will AI transform how we secure APIs? [Q&A]


Digital services, including Generative AI, rely heavily upon Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) to access and relay data. But securing these conduits can be difficult so is this a problem that AI could help solve?
We spoke to James Sherlow, systems engineering director, EMEA, at Cequence Security, to find out how Generative AI might be used to address API security.
ProtoArc launches XKM01 CaseUp portable work kit for remote professionals


ProtoArc has launched its latest productivity kit, the XKM01 CaseUp, aimed at business travelers and remote workers looking for a portable, ergonomic workspace. Building on the success of the previous XKM01 model, the XKM01 CaseUp includes a compact Bluetooth keyboard, a slim wireless mouse, and a foldable laptop stand -- all contained in a travel-friendly case.
With the XKM01 CaseUp, ProtoArc addresses the growing needs of remote workers, providing an ergonomic setup that supports improved posture and helps reduce neck strain. The keyboard, featuring a tri-fold design, folds down to just 8.46 x 4.68 x 0.78 inches, yet offers a full-size typing experience with 105 keys, including a numeric keypad and a row of shortcuts. Scissor-switch keys are intended to provide a quiet and responsive feel, and the dual-mode wireless connectivity (via 2.4G and Bluetooth) enables easy switching across Windows, macOS, and Android devices.
iStorage diskAshur3: A solid choice for secure portable storage [Review]


While cloud storage offers convenience and accessibility, it may not always provide the level of security some users require, especially if you have private data that you can’t afford to have fall into the wrong hands. If security is paramount, you should definitely consider a PIN authenticated hardware encrypted portable USB drive like iStorage’s excellent diskAshur3.
Available with HDD and SDD storage in a choice of capacities, diskAshur3 is designed with portability in mind, Measuring just 130mm x 80mm x 20mm, its sleek and sturdy build makes it easy to carry, whether you're traveling for business or managing data on the go. The device is compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iPadOS and more. It comes with both USB Type-A and Type-C cables, so you can connect it to most devices. Additionally, a protective carry case is included to keep the drive safe during transport and you get a free one year license of Nero BackItUp and iStorage DriveSecurity.
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