Computeractive

Computeractive is the UK’s best-selling computer magazine and your friendly guide to PCs, gadgets and the web! It includes regular news updates, project ideas, help and advice on popular reader queries, articles on anti-virus software, features on consumer rights, and a whole lot more to help you get the very best out of your computer. Get PC advice in plain English today – get Computeractive!

Computeractive

WELCOME • From the Editor

News • The top stories in the world of technology

File Explorer blocks previews of web downloads

Thousands switch to Linux distro as Windows 10 support ends

No more Android Auto updates on old phones and tablets

IN BRIEF

Three accused of child abuse after BT engineer crossed wires

YouTube adds transparent icons and reply threads to videos

Retro channel Talking Pictures coming to Freely in 2026

Google lets you hide sponsored results – but you need to see them first

How did Amazon’s bug cause the internet to collapse? • A massive technical fault brought the web to a standstill

Protect your tech • Scams and threats to avoid, plus new security tools

Letters • Tell us what’s on your mind

Currys refunds reader after router came with two-pin plug

Consumeractive • We stand up for your legal rights

I bought Iiyama monitor at 4pm – it arrived next morning

Grow Your Family Tree • If your ancestors fought in World War 1’s largest naval battle, follow Richard Holt’s advice to…

Best Free Software • Robert Irvine recommends new programs that won’t cost you a thing

What should I download? • We advise you which software and apps to use

Named & Shamed • Keumars Afifi-Sabet puts the boot into tech villains, jargon-spouting companies and software trying to trick you

Reviews • New products tested by our experts

Medion Erazer Bandit P20

Raspberry Pi 500+

Fairphone 6

Nothing Ear (3)

Keychron B36

Edifier ES20

LaCie Rugged SSD4

Buy It • Our pick of products that have won the Buy It award

Computeractive 2024 Back Issue CD & USB Stick • Both the CD and Stick contain all 26 issues from 2024

HOW TO… Upload your photos to share publicly • 14 pages of easy-to-follow workshops and expert tips

Use webmail to record your notes and reminders

Readers’ Tips • Handy hints and tips from your fellow readers

Browser Tips • Secret settings and the best extensions

AI Tips • Clever new tools and tweaks

Phone and Tablet Tips • Brilliant things to do on your device

Make Windows Better • Expert tips for every version

Make Office Better • Top tips for the best office programs

In The Club • Run a club or society? Here’s how your tech can make it easier

What’s All the Fuss About… Gold in your PC • There’s a fortune in Windows 10 machines, but you won’t see any of it

BIN YOUR SIM CARD • Physical SIM cards are fiddly to insert, restrictive to use and susceptible to theft. Robert Irvine explains why switching your phone to an eSIM is easier, cheaper and smarter

READER OFFER! • Upgrade to Windows 11 Pro for just £49.99!

SUBSCRIBE TODAY • ONLY £5 FOR 3 ISSUES.

Stop Meta spying on you • Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp have introduced new ways to collect your personal data. Robert Irvine explains how to protect your privacy from Meta’s snooping

Play games on your TV (without a console) • Think you need an expensive console to play games on your telly? Think again. Jonathan Parkyn explains why your phone, laptop or streaming stick could be all you need

Problems Solved •...