Security

For years, Linux and macOS users have enjoyed the convenience of the sudo command to run commands with administrative privileges. Now, the sudo experience has finally come to Windows in two popular forms: Microsoft’s official sudo, built into Windows 11, and the feature-rich, open-source gsudo. But which one do I use? This guide puts them in a head-to-head showdown, comparing their features, security, and best use cases to help me choose the right tool for my workflow. ...

The Windows Defender Firewall is a critical component of Windows security, controlling inbound and outbound network traffic to protect my system from unauthorized access and malicious activity. While often misunderstood, managing it effectively is essential for both security and application functionality. This post clarifies the distinction between “Windows Firewall” and “Windows Defender Firewall,” and provides command-line and PowerShell methods to manage its state (on/off) and configure rules. 1. “Windows Firewall” vs “Windows Defender Firewall” The naming of Windows’ built-in firewall can be a source of confusion, but the reality is simpler than it seems. ...

If I’ve ever downloaded a script, installer, or even a help file from the internet, I’ve likely encountered a frustrating Windows security feature: the file is “blocked,” preventing it from running or displaying correctly. This is due to the “Mark of the Web,” a security mechanism designed to protect me from potentially malicious content. PowerShell provides a simple and elegant solution to this problem: the Unblock-File cmdlet. This guide will explain what the Mark of the Web is, how to identify blocked files, and how to use Unblock-File to safely manage them. ...