How-To Geek
4 Windows habits that can wreck your Linux system
Linux isn't necessarily "harder" than Windows, it's just different. Just like visiting another country, you need to adapt to the laws of the land. While a lot of your experiences with Windows translate well into the world of Linux, if you don't shake these habits your data, and even your whole system, could end up in a very bad spot.
The world's first flush, recessed drop-down TV mount
Out of Sight Mounting Solutions was engineered to solve a problem traditional mantle mounts can’t: they force TVs to be mounted too high to clear the mantle, ruining sight lines and aesthetics. Our patented pivoting geometry allows the TV to mount dramatically lower, clear deeper mantels, and retract into a near-flush position, without motors, electronics, or maintenance-heavy components.
3 Prime Video documentaries to binge this weekend (January 30 - February 1)
Prime Video's documentaries can be a bit sneaky, especially when you're looking for a lineup with a bit of range. With a bit of digging, you can find some sweet spots to make for an interesting watch.
Home Assistant projects to try this weekend (January 30-Feb 1)
Some Home Assistant projects can make a big impact on your smart home without a huge amount of effort. Others take a little more time, but the end results can be equally impressive. However much free time you have this weekend, there's a project you can try.
3 great shows to watch on Netflix this weekend (January 30 - February 1)
Every weekend, I'm on the lookout for a solid binge that I can while away the hours with. Netflix is never at a loss for these, but at the end of each month (before the next month's titles take root), it takes a bit more digging to find a hit.
Stop right-clicking in Excel: 5 shortcuts that save me hours every week
Every time you reach for your mouse to right-click in Excel, you're paying a productivity tax. It feels like a shortcut, but it actually breaks your flow. These five essential keystrokes replaced my right-click habit and turned my sluggish spreadsheet sessions into a sprint.
Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 Keyboard review: An odd but fantastic layout
Corsair tried something new with their latest Vanguard Pro 96 keyboard, and I can’t say that I’m a fan. The built-in screen feels useless and like a value-add that doesn’t add any extra value. The rest of the keyboard though? I love it, and I think you will too.
How I made my basic robot vacuum smarter using Home Assistant
Robot vacuums are the perfect example of what a smart home device should be. They make your life easier by taking over a tedious task you would otherwise have to do yourself, and with automation, you can make it all happen without having to do a thing. My robot vacuum isn't very smart, but I used Home Assistant to make it smarter.
Stop buying Gen 3 SSDs: They are slower and actually cost more
Rapidly rising SSD prices are bringing back products that were starting to fade into obscurity. SATA SSDs, pretty much obsolete, are finding some uses again. Similarly, the ongoing RAM shortage makes older versions of consumer RAM, such as DDR3, somewhat usable.
Raspberry Pi projects to try this weekend (January 30 - February 1)
Are you ready for more Raspberry Pi projects to dive into? This weekend, I’m showing you how to track the ISS as it flys around the globe, modify a retro camera with new tech, and make plants scream at you with three more Raspberry Pi projects for you to do this weekend.
3 years later, Hulu's satirical comedy is a better streaming show than Bridgerton
Welcome back, dearest readers. After nearly a two-year hiatus, Bridgerton season 4 returns to Netflix with four episodes. With charming romances, beautiful costumes, and riveting drama, Bridgerton remains an entertaining and delightful television show. Season 4 will undoubtedly climb to the top of Netflix's weekly Top 10 charts. If you've already watched the new season or want another period piece, Hulu has a satirical comedy that's arguably better than Bridgerton.
How Subaru’s AWD system really stacks up against the competition
Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system is seriously impressive. It delivers confident, full-time traction whether you’re in bad weather or pushing performance limits.
Everyone should understand these smart home terms
Most smart home terminology is pretty self-explanatory, but there are plenty of terms that can catch out newbies who aren’t clued in on the lingo. So here’s a glossary of the most common smart home terms you might encounter, and what they mean.
MAME can now emulate Apple's first graphical computer
The popular multi-system emulator MAME just received its first update for 2026. MAME 0.285 has arrived with better support for Apple's first graphical interface computer, the Lisa, along with more arcade emulation options and other changes.
I carry Windows, Linux, and repair tools in my pocket: Here is how
Most of the time, you're locked into just one operating system, and if you switch to a different computer, you can't take your favorite programs with you. That limits what you can do, and if you experience a technical problem, you could be in trouble. One NVMe SSD and an inexpensive USB enclosure changed all of that for me.
This used luxury sedan now costs less than a new Honda Accord
New car prices are getting ridiculous, often creeping past $50,000. Smart buyers are skipping the showroom and looking for used options that still deliver style and reliability.
7 useful batch files you can create to automate tasks on Windows 11
You can automate many tasks on your Windows 11 PC using batch files. I’ll explain what a batch file is, how you can create one, and show you some interesting and useful uses of these files.
Most of my homelab problems trace back to these 3 early decisions
I’ve had my homelab running for over five years, so it’s fair to assume that I’ve run into a lot of problems. However, many of the problems trace back to just three decisions I made (or didn’t make) early on in my journey.
7 smart home upgrades you need in the bedroom
Every room in your house can benefit from some smart switches and plugs, but some rooms are better-suited to more specialized accessories. Here are some accessories you might want to add to your bedroom, and the ways they can make your life a little easier.
Stop port forwarding your NAS: The safer way to access files remotely
Your NAS is often home to your most important files. Whether you use it for backups or to host your own Plex server, it's crucial that your NAS is private, and stays that way. For many people, that means never exposing it to the internet. But those who do take their NAS online often neglect a crucial security-related step that can make it that much safer.


