Computers and Technology

I've worked at a small MSP for over a decade and have been kicking around the LA hacker scene for like 20 years. The linked articles are based in my accumulated knowledge from time cheerfully mis-spent.

About Computers

• How does a Computer Work?
• Why does my computer slow down over time?
• How can I get better at using computers?

For the purposes of this site, when I am talking about computers I am nearly always discussing Windows computers in the "standard office desktop/laptop" configuration; these are the kinds of computers that I am most familiar with. I cannot help you with two-in-ones, all-in-ones, gaming computers, tablets, etc. These are the computers that I can discuss with the most nuance and that I can be most helpful with. However, I know there will be further questions so for more info please see:

• But what about Apple?
• But what about Linux?

Hardware

• Guide to Buying a Computer (Information for 2026)
• How to Make Your Computer Meaningfully Faster
• On Computer Brands
• Framework Laptops

Hardware Information Resources

• Technical City - Tool for comparing hardware (processor to processor, graphics card to graphics card, etc.) to help you gauge specs when shopping around.
• PC Part Picker Price Trends - This site as a whole is useful for sourcing and comparing hardware but the price trends especially are helpful for getting an idea of what you can expect to pay for a computer.

Software

Operating Systems

• Windows
• Linux

Open Source Software

• What is Open Source software?
• LibreOffice
• Firefox
• Bitwarden
• CryptPad
• Proton

Security

• Password Managers
• Multifactor Authentication
• Backups
• Better Security Behaviors

Culture

• Hackerspaces
• InfoSec Meetings
• InfoSec Conferences
• Hackers in Pop Culture