Tech explainers

Read in-depth guides to the most important technologies affecting organizations and individuals.

Google antitrust case explained: What's next?

A U.S. judge ruled Google violated antitrust laws with an illegal monopoly over online searches -- a landmark decision with major implications for Big Tech and consumer choices.
IoT and digital twins: How they work together, with examples

IoT devices collect real-world data, while digital twins create virtual models using that data—together, they provide detailed insights to improve operations and predict issues.
AI lawsuits explained: Who's getting sued?

Authors, artists and others are filing lawsuits against generative AI companies for using their data in bulk to train AI systems without permission.
Help desk vs. service desk: What's the difference?

Help desks deliver tactical, immediate technical support for specific issues, while service desks offer strategic, comprehensive management of business services.
How IoT data collection works

IoT data collection enables organizations to constantly gather and analyze physical measurements, location data and operational metrics with internet-connected sensors and devices.
What is the blue screen of death (BSOD)?

The blue screen of death (BSOD) -- also known as a stop error screen, blue screen error, fatal error or bugcheck -- is a critical error screen that can be displayed by Microsoft Windows operating systems (OSes).
AI cannibalism explained: A model failure

AI cannibalism – training on AI-generated content – creates a feedback loop that worsens bias, degrades quality and risks model collapse, making systems unreliable or unusable.
CISO burnout: How to balance leadership, pressure and sanity

With CISO burnout comes increasing cyber incidents and costly leadership turnover. Organizations must invest in support to prevent this growing security risk.
22 free cybersecurity tools you should know about

Cybersecurity products can get pricy, but there are many excellent open source tools to help secure your systems and data. Here's a list of some of the most popular.
What executives must know about nation-state threat actors

Nation-state threat actors like Russia, China, Iran and North Korea are targeting critical infrastructure and sensitive data, so executives must prepare to defend against them.
TikTok bans explained: Everything you need to know

The United States government takes aim at the viral video sharing application TikTok.
Shadow AI: How CISOs can regain control in 2025 and beyond

Shadow AI threatens enterprises as employees increasingly use unauthorized AI tools. Discover the risks, governance strategies, and outlook for managing AI in today's workplace.
How AI threat detection is transforming enterprise cybersecurity

AI-powered threat detection transforms cybersecurity by using machine learning to analyze network traffic, user behaviors and data access patterns.
What is cyber risk quantification (CRQ)? How to get it right

Cyber risk quantification translates security threats into financial terms, so executives can prioritize risks, justify investments and allocate resources to protect the business.
OpenAI o3 and o4 explained: Everything you need to know

OpenAI o3 and o4-mini are successors to the o1 model and are releases from the OpenAI reasoning model branch. These models became widely available on April 16, 2025.
Cybersecurity risk management: Best practices and frameworks

This proactive approach protects business operations, ensures compliance and preserves reputation through comprehensive security practices.
Should cybersecurity be part of your digital transformation strategy?

Digital transformation offers companies some tantalizing possibilities. But new technologies usher in new vulnerabilities. Cybersecurity needs to play a key role.
What's going on with Nvidia stock and the booming AI market?

Nvidia's market value surpassed $3 trillion in 2024, fueled by the generative AI boom, rebounding tech sector and 154% stock growth in 2024. However, there are questions if AI will sustain the hype cycle.
Why identity is the new perimeter – and how to defend it

Identity has replaced network boundaries as today's security perimeter. Organizations must focus on protecting digital identities to safeguard their assets.
Intel's rise and fall: A timeline of what went wrong

Intel's dramatic decline highlights its struggle to compete in a rapidly evolving tech landscape, as its market value lags giants such as Nvidia and AMD.
Risk maturity model: How it works and how to use one

Explore risk maturity models and assessment tools for enhancing enterprise risk management. Improve ERM programs to mitigate risk and gain a competitive edge.
An explanation of ransomware

Ransomware locks an organization out of its data or digital services until it pays up. To minimize attacks, businesses can enhance security, train employees and back up data.
Companies that have partnered with Nvidia for innovative AI projects

In the modern era, no individual tech vendor is an island; most prosper best through partnerships. That's certainly the case for GPU and AI innovator Nvidia.
An explanation of RFID

Radio frequency identification uses radio waves to digitally tag items, so businesses can wirelessly identify and track goods. Near field communication is a subset of RFID.
What is risk transfer? Methods, examples and strategic tips

Risk transfer shifts potential financial liability from one party to another through insurance contracts, legal agreements or financial tools to protect organizations from losses.
Amazon's Project Kuiper vs. Starlink: How do they compare?

Amazon is expanding its horizons as Project Kuiper launched low earth satellites in April 2025. The goal is to bring connectivity to all areas, which is also Starlink's mission.
What is automation bias?

Automation bias is an overreliance by human operators on automated systems, such as computer hardware, software and algorithms, to make decisions, even when the machine-generated output is incorrect or contradicts human judgment.
IoT basics: A guide for beginners

Explore the benefits and challenges of IoT, as well as its consumer, business and industrial applications. Learn how it works, related concepts, history and more in this primer.
What is data risk management? Key risks and best practices

Data risk management identifies, assesses and mitigates threats to organizational data, safeguarding sensitive information from unauthorized access.
What is AI in networking?

AI in networking involves the application of artificial intelligence technologies, including machine learning, deep learning and advanced data analytics, to automate, optimize and secure network operations.
The history of semiconductors and the chip-making industry

Semiconductors are the building blocks of modern technology and are essential for innovation in the modern age.
Semiconductor chip materials: What and where to source them

Semiconductor chips are predominantly made from silicon, germanium and gallium arsenide. Production is limited and mostly based in China, which could create future supply issues.
How U.S. tariffs are reshaping the tech landscape

The Trump Administration's tariffs levy a minimum 10% tax on global imports, heavily affecting tech industry supply chains.
What is infrastructure automation?

Infrastructure automation uses software tools to automate processes related to IT infrastructure provisioning, management and monitoring.
An explanation of cyberattacks and their different forms

Cyberattacks are malicious attempts to breach computer systems. Types include phishing, ransomware and SQL injection. Prevention requires training, monitoring and encryption.
10 core steps in the semiconductor manufacturing process

Semiconductors bridge conductors and insulators, enabling precise control of electrical flow. This complex process creates the foundation of modern electronics.
Four tech companies increasing manufacturing in the U.S.

Tech companies are pledging to increase U.S. manufacturing by building new or expanding existing facilities as well as investing in research and development.
Finfluencers: A guide to personal financial content creators

Finfluencers create personal finance content on social media, often appealing to Gen Z and retail investors, but the lack of regulation means there are risks involved.
An explanation of customer relationship management (CRM)

CRM systems combine data, strategies and technology to manage customer interactions. Features include automation, lead tracking, and analytics to improve service and drive sales.
Meta Llama 4 explained: Everything you need to know

Meta released Llama 4 -- a multimodal LLM that analyzes and understands text, images, and video data. There are three primary versions of Llama 4 -- Scout, Maverick and Behemoth.
An explanation of pen testing

Pen testing uses six steps to test systems for vulnerabilities so organizations can remediate any problems and strengthen their cybersecurity against potential attacks.
What is quantum error mitigation?

Quantum error mitigation is a process used to reduce the impact of errors in quantum computing.
Google Gemini 2.5 Pro explained: Everything you need to know

Google's latest multimodal model – Gemini 2.5 Pro – entered the AI race with enhanced reasoning and improved performance across coding, math and science benchmarks.
An explanation of neural networks

Neural networks are a type of machine learning model that mimic the human brain. With three different layers of processors, these networks are used in various industries.
An explanation of SAP ERP, ECC and S/4HANA

SAP's enterprise resource management products under SAP ERP include ECC and S/4HANA. They are designed for enterprises across all business aspects, but are costly to implement.
An explanation of data science and data scientist jobs

Data science uses advanced analytics techniques to gain insights, especially for business use cases.
GPT-4.1 explained: Everything you need to know

OpenAI released a new family of general-purpose models on April 14, 2025. The GPT-4.1 series includes three models with a developer focus – GPT-4.1, GPT-4.1 mini and GPT-4.1 nano.
How do cybercriminals steal credit card information?

Cybercriminals have various methods at their disposal to hack and exploit credit card information. Learn what they are, how to prevent them and what to do when hacked.
What is quantum error correction?

Quantum error correction detects and fixes fragile qubit errors caused by interference and decoherence, enabling fault-tolerant, reliable and scalable quantum computing systems.
The top 5 most secure encrypted messaging apps

Secure messaging uses end-to-end encryption, decentralized servers and open source code. The most secure messaging apps, such as Signal and Sessions, combine these features.
The rise of digital detox apps

Digital detox apps are gaining popularity as they help users reduce screen time, fight digital addiction and improve mental well-being.
An explanation of cybercrime

Cybercrime refers to criminal activity that uses a computer, networked device or network. Its many forms, from extortion to identity theft, can cause real damage to organizations.
RTO mandates: Why they're happening and the possible outcomes

After years of remote work, some companies are making employees return to the office. Experts predict good and bad results with mentorship opportunities or employee turnover.
16 TikTok alternatives to check out in 2025

TikTok wasn't the first of its kind, and it won't be the last. Check out these alternatives if you're looking for a new platform with similar features.
Grok 3 model explained: Everything you need to know

XAI introduced and expanded its large language model to the newest version -- Grok 3, which offers features such as advanced reasoning, knowledge retrieval and text summarization.
Cybercrime-as-a-service explained: What you need to know

Cybercrime-as-a-service is quickly evolving, offering easy access to hacking tools for criminals. Learn how it works and steps to protect your organization from attacks.
The 6 different types of quantum computing technology

Technology providers offer several paths to the promised land of quantum advantage, but customers must navigate the engineering tradeoffs among the varied types of qubits.
An explanation of personally identifiable information

Everyone has personally identifiable information -- some of it sensitive and some of it not. Keeping PII safe is important, since bad actors can use it for malicious ends.
An explanation of software-as-a-service (SaaS)

Software-as-a-service is a way for organizations to rent cloud computing services rather than buy and own applications. It has both advantages and disadvantages.
APM best practices: 9 strategies to adopt

Teams responsible for APM must develop a clear strategy to identify performance risks, reduce APM costs and secure sensitive data collected as part of their initiatives.
What is Gemma? Google's open sourced AI model explained

Gemma is a collection of lightweight open source generative AI models designed mainly for developers and researchers.
Application performance monitoring vs. management

Explore the nuances between application performance monitoring and application performance management, especially in enhancing application efficiency and the user experience.
8 IT process automation platforms to explore in 2025

Selecting an IT process automation platform requires organizations to evaluate processes, skill level and integration issues. These popular products are good options.
5 ways to tell if an app is safe before downloading

Before downloading an app, users should verify the publisher, look at reviews and consult the privacy policy to determine whether it is safe to install.
7 U.S. tech policies to watch in 2025

The Trump administration is already enacting new tech policies, seeking to establish the U.S. as a global leader in AI development and innovation while reducing red tape on Big Tech.
Treasury Department hacked: Explaining how it happened

Another major cyberattack hit the U.S. Treasury, allegedly by Chinese state-sponsored hackers. Exploiting BeyondTrust software, they accessed sensitive unclassified documents.
GPT-4.5 explained: Everything you need to know

GPT-4.5, OpenAI's latest model, enhances natural conversation and emotional intelligence. It supports content generation, multilingual proficiency and more.
AI fatigue explained: What it is and how to combat it

With the rapid development of AI and the onset of generative AI, AI fatigue is becoming more common across businesses and negatively affecting the employee experience.
Six major tech lawsuits to keep tabs on in 2025

Tech giants will head to court to address antitrust cases, data privacy, content moderation and copyright. These cases may set key legal precedents for the future of tech.
Stargate AI explained: What's in the $500 billion project

Co-led by OpenAI and Softbank, Stargate AI aims to invest $500 billion in new AI data centers and infrastructure to help U.S.-based AI innovation, but it has raised concerns.
Google Gemini 2.0 explained: Everything you need to know

Google Gemini 2.0, announced in December 2024, will enhance generative AI with multimodal capabilities and agentic AI features, integrating across Google services.
What we can learn from 2024's top 5 healthcare cyberattacks

2024's top healthcare cyberattacks each affected millions of patients, revealing vulnerabilities and showing how critical a strong cybersecurity system is to secure patient data.
ChatGPT search vs. Google: How do they differ?

ChatGPT brings a fresh take on internet search with conversational AI, but Google retains key advantages. Discover how these two platforms stack up and differ.
How has generative AI affected cybersecurity?

Generative AI helps security teams defend against threats, but it also lets bad actors infiltrate organizations. Learn about how each side is tapping into GenAI to gain an edge.
The history of cloud computing explained

Get a clear view of cloud's historical milestones, how it evolved into the juggernaut it is today and transformed the commercial and working worlds for businesses and consumers.
Pig butchering scam explained: Everything you need to know

People wanting to make money on the cryptocurrency market are becoming targets for scammers. Scammers are even looking for their next victim through dating and social media apps.
What is prompt engineering?

Prompt engineering is an artificial intelligence (AI) engineering technique that refines large language models (LLMs), with specific prompts and recommended outputs. It also is part of the process of refining input to various generative AI (GenAI) services to generate text or images.
35 cybersecurity statistics to lose sleep over in 2025

Here are 35 eye-opening cybersecurity stats -- on cybercrime, vulnerabilities, costs, careers and other trends -- to consider while evaluating your 2025 security plan.
11 ways to spot disinformation on social media

Social media disinformation is meant to be deceptive and can spread quickly. Here are some ways to spot it.
Apple lawsuit history explained

In March 2024, the DOJ filed a lawsuit against Apple, alleging its smartphone market monopoly. However, this isn't the first time Apple has seen legal action.
FTX scam explained: Everything you need to know

Cryptocurrency values rose in 2021 but started to decline in 2022, causing some exchange platforms to fold. FTX appeared to stay strong -- until news broke of an elaborate scam.
Rise of the subscription economy: What it is and how it works

The subscription economy is reshaping consumer habits, offering flexible access over ownership. It drives convenience, loyalty and predictable revenue.
What is PSTN (public switched telephone network)?

PSTN (public switched telephone network) is the world's collection of interconnected voice-oriented public telephone networks via traditional circuit-switched networks.
5 ways solar flares affect technology

Solar flares are intense sun explosions that can disrupt satellites, GPS, power grids and electronics.
ChatGPT search: Details about OpenAI's search engine

ChatGPT search is a generative AI search engine that ingests information in real time.
Diffusion of innovations theory: Definition and examples

Discover how the diffusion of innovations theory unravels the journey of ideas and tech, from bold innovators to cautious laggards, shaping adoption trends across industries today.
Passkey vs. password: What is the difference?

Companies are turning to passkeys as a secure login for consumers. Passkeys make it more difficult for thieves to steal information, and they are also more convenient for users.
What is a support vector machine (SVM)?

A support vector machine (SVM) is a type of supervised learning algorithm used in machine learning to solve classification and regression tasks.
Conversational AI vs. generative AI: What's the difference?

As AI continues to evolve, understanding the differences and collaborative potential of conversational AI and generative AI is vital to their role in shaping the digital landscape.
7 examples of augmented analytics in the enterprise

Augmented analytics uses machine learning, AI and natural language processing to help business users interpret complex data sets. Explore use cases across industries.
Hardware vs. software explained

If you can touch it, it's hardware. If it's an application you can't touch, it's software.
Data engineers, data scientists and data analysts explained

Understanding the differences in the roles of data scientists, analysts and engineers can boost productivity and efficiency in a business.
What is identity governance and administration (IGA)?

Identity governance and administration (IGA) is the collection of processes and practices used to manage user digital identities and their access throughout the enterprise.
Coffee badging explained: Why businesses are cracking down

Companies are enforcing return-to-office mandates, and employees aren't thrilled. Boosting morale with perks and flexibility can ease the transition.
7 common social media privacy issues

Social media usage continues to grow as people share posts, videos and photos. However, there are data privacy issues and risks with sharing on social media.
CrowdStrike outage explained: What caused it and what’s next

A CrowdStrike update caused a massive IT outage, crashing millions of Windows systems. Critical services and business operations were disrupted, revealing tech reliance risks.
What is cloud compliance and why is it important?

Cloud compliance ensures the safe and secure use and storage of data through strict adherence to existing cloud computing rules and guidelines, including applicable federal or international laws and regulatory compliance, as well as industry frameworks and best practices.
What is cloud architecture? Design and implementation

Cloud architecture is how infrastructure components are connected and configured to create a suitable cloud computing environment for the performance, reliability and scalability needed to host user workloads and data.
What is mixed reality?

Mixed reality refers to advanced technology that combines both virtual reality (VR), a fully immersive computer-generated experience, and augmented reality (AR), which integrates digital elements into the physical world.
How to opt out of AI training across social media platforms

Whether they are aware of it or not, businesses are increasingly using people's social media posts -- written content and images -- for their training AI systems.