Security Tips & Updates
Learn about cybersecurity, 2FA, passwords and more
What Is DNS and How Does a DNS Lookup Work?
Every time you type a website address, DNS translates it to an IP address in milliseconds. Here's how the Domain Name System actually works, what all those record types mean, and how to use DNS lookup to troubleshoot real problems.
How to Check if a Link is Safe Before You Click?
That link someone just sent you — do you actually know where it goes? Before you click anything suspicious, here's how to check if a link is safe and what to look for in a malicious URL.
JSON Formatter — How to Read, Format and Validate JSON
Raw JSON from an API is unreadable. Formatted JSON takes 3 seconds to understand. Here's what a JSON formatter actually does, why JSON gets minified, and how to fix common syntax errors.
What Is Base64 Encoding? Why It Exists and How to Use It
Base64 shows up in JWT tokens, email attachments, API responses, and CSS files. Most developers use it without really understanding why it exists. Here's the clear explanation nobody gave you.
What Is a UUID? How Unique IDs Work and When to Use Them
Every database row, API request, and file upload needs a unique ID. Auto-incrementing integers have serious problems. Here's why UUIDs solve them — and when to use UUID v4 vs other options.
What Is Hashing? MD5, SHA-256, SHA-512 Explained Simply
Hashing is everywhere in computing — passwords, file verification, blockchain, digital signatures. Most people have only a vague sense of what it actually does. Here's a clear explanation.
What Is a JWT Token? How to Decode and Read JWT Tokens
That long string of characters in your API response isn't gibberish — it's structured data carrying your identity and permissions. Here's what's inside a JWT and how to decode it instantly.
Password Strength Checker — Is Your Password Actually Strong?
Most people think their password is strong. Most of those people are wrong. A capital letter and an exclamation mark don't make a password secure — here's what actually does.
Password Generator — Why Random Passwords Are the Only Strong Passwords
Humans are terrible at creating random passwords. We think we're being clever, but we're following patterns attackers cracked decades ago. Here's why generated passwords are the only truly strong ones.
What Is a QR Code? How to Generate One for 2FA Setup
That QR code you scan during 2FA setup isn't just a link — it's carrying a cryptographic secret that lets your phone generate security codes forever. Here's what's inside it, and how to generate your own.
What is TOTP? How Those 6-Digit Codes Actually Work
Every 30 seconds your authenticator app generates a new code — without contacting any server. Here's the surprisingly clever math behind how TOTP works, and why it's more secure than SMS codes.
How to Enable 2FA on Gmail — Step by Step (The Right Way)
A friend of mine got his Gmail hacked at 2am. Password reset on Instagram, Amazon, almost his bank — three days of chaos. If he'd had 2FA enabled, none of it would have happened. Here's exactly how to set it up.
How to Check if Your Password Has Been Leaked — And What to Do Next
Billions of passwords are floating around the internet from past data breaches. Here's how to check if yours is one of them — and exactly what to do if it is.
Google Authenticator vs Authy: Which Should You Use in 2026?
Both apps generate 2FA codes, but they handle backups, multi-device support, and recovery very differently. Here's an honest comparison to help you choose the right one.
10 Free Online Security Tools You Should Be Using Right Now
Most people don't think about cybersecurity until something goes wrong. Here are 10 genuinely useful free security tools — the ones professionals actually use — that anyone can start using today.
What is 2FA and Why You Need It — Complete Guide 2026
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your accounts. Learn what 2FA is, how it works, the different types, and why every account needs it today.