June 2023 – EM-N | Computing Simplified

Load shedding has become a frequent occurrence in Johannesburg, causing disruptions to daily life and posing challenges for computer users. Power outages can lead to data loss, interrupted work, and hardware damage. However, with the right strategies and tools in place, computer users can navigate through load shedding Johannesburg and ensure productivity and protection for their devices.

In this article, we present a comprehensive Load Shedding Survival Guide for Computer Users in Johannesburg, offering practical tips, techniques, and recommended tools to help you stay productive and safeguard your computer during these challenging times.

Understand the Load Shedding Schedule

The first step in managing load shedding is to be aware of the schedule specific to your area. Stay updated on the load shedding timetable provided by the local power utility, as this will help you plan your work accordingly. Utilize online resources and mobile applications that provide real-time load shedding updates, ensuring that you are well-prepared for potential power outages.

Invest in an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)

An Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) is a critical device that acts as a safeguard for your computer during load shedding. It provides temporary power backup, giving you valuable time to save your work and safely shut down your computer. Consider investing in a UPS with sufficient capacity to support your computer and peripherals, ensuring uninterrupted power supply during outages.

Backup Your Data

Data loss is a significant concern during power outages. Regularly back up your important files and documents to an external hard drive, cloud storage, or network-attached storage (NAS). Cloud-based backup solutions offer an added advantage, as they provide off-site storage, protecting your data from local power disruptions or hardware failures.

Optimize Power Management Settings

Take advantage of power management settings on your computer’s operating system to extend battery life during load shedding. Adjust the display brightness, set shorter sleep and idle times, and disable unnecessary background processes and apps that consume power. Optimizing power settings will help maximize your computer’s battery usage during outages.

Use Mobile Hotspots or Tethering

During load shedding, internet connectivity can also be affected. Consider using mobile hotspots or tethering your smartphone to ensure uninterrupted internet access for critical work. Be mindful of data usage and ensure you have sufficient mobile data or Wi-Fi coverage to avoid interruptions.

ALSO READ: Windows VPS vs. Other Hosting Solutions: Making an Informed Decision

Plan for Offline Work

Prepare for periods of load shedding by organizing offline work tasks. Compile research, reference materials, and offline tools or software that can be accessed without an internet connection. This way, you can continue working on important projects even when the power is out.

Protect Your Computer from Surges

Power fluctuations can occur when the electricity supply is restored after load shedding. Safeguard your computer from voltage surges by using surge protectors or voltage stabilizers. These devices absorb excess electrical energy, preventing potential damage to your computer and peripherals.

Stay Informed through Computer News

Stay updated on the latest developments related to load shedding and its impact on computer users through reputable computer news sources. These platforms provide valuable insights, tips, and recommendations to help you navigate through load shedding effectively.

Conclusion

Load shedding can be a frustrating and disruptive experience for computer users in Johannesburg. However, with careful planning, the right tools, and the implementation of the strategies outlined in this Load Shedding Survival Guide, you can minimize the impact on your work and protect your computer from potential damage. Stay informed, be prepared, and make use of the available resources to ensure productivity and peace of mind during load shedding.

Unlocking the Power of Solo Ads: Understanding the Basics and Their Impact on Affiliate Marketing

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| Bussiness, Computer News

In the ever-evolving world of digital marketing, finding effective strategies to boost your online presence and drive traffic to your website is crucial. One such strategy that has gained significant popularity is the utilization of solo ads. If you’re an affiliate marketer or aspiring to be one, it’s important to understand the basics of solo ads and how they can impact your affiliate marketing efforts. In this article, let’s define what is a solo ad and explore its potential to enhance your affiliate marketing game.

What are Solo Ads?

Solo ads are a form of paid advertising where you leverage someone else’s email list to promote your own offer. In simple terms, you pay a solo ad vendor who has a large and engaged email subscriber base to send out your promotional email to their list. These promotional emails typically include a captivating subject line, engaging content, and a call-to-action that directs recipients to your landing page or offer.

The Mechanics of Solo Ads

When you embark on a solo ad campaign, you collaborate with a solo ad provider who acts as a middleman between you and their email subscribers. Once you’ve chosen a reputable solo ad vendor, you’ll work together to create a compelling email that aligns with your marketing objectives. The solo ad vendor will then send this email to their subscriber base, generating clicks and potential leads for your offer.

Targeting the Right Audience

One of the key advantages of solo ads is the ability to reach a highly targeted audience. When selecting a solo ad provider, ensure that their email list caters to your niche or industry. This targeted approach allows you to showcase your offer to individuals who have a genuine interest in your product or service, increasing the likelihood of conversions and sales.

Benefits of Solo Ads for Affiliate Marketing

Rapid List Building: Solo ads offer a fast and effective way to build your email list. By tapping into an established subscriber base, you can quickly expand your reach and connect with potential customers who are already interested in your niche.
Increased Traffic: Solo ads can generate a significant amount of traffic to your website or landing page. The influx of targeted visitors increases the chances of conversions and boosts your overall visibility in the online realm.
Affordable Advertising: Compared to other forms of paid advertising, solo ads can be a cost-effective option, especially when you consider the potential return on investment. With careful planning and strategic execution, solo ads can provide excellent value for your marketing budget.
Easy to Implement: Setting up a solo ad campaign is relatively simple. You don’t need extensive technical knowledge or coding skills. By partnering with a reliable solo ad provider, you can focus on creating compelling content while leaving the distribution to the experts.

Tips for a Successful Solo Ad Campaign

To make the most of your solo ad investment, keep the following tips in mind:

Choose Reputable Vendors: Research and select solo ad providers with a solid track record and positive testimonials. This ensures that your message reaches a reliable and engaged audience.
Craft Engaging Emails: Pay attention to your email’s subject line and content. Aim for a personalized and attention-grabbing approach that entices readers to click through and explore your offer.
Optimize Your Landing Page: Ensure that your landing page is optimized for conversions. Create a clear and compelling call-to-action, and make it easy for visitors to take the desired action, such as making a purchase or subscribing to your newsletter.
Track and Analyze Results: Monitor the performance of your solo ad campaigns using tracking tools and analytics. This data will help you identify what works and what needs improvement, allowing you to refine your strategy for future campaigns.

Conclusion

Solo ads can be a powerful tool in your affiliate marketing arsenal. By leveraging the reach and influence of established email lists, you can significantly enhance your brand visibility, drive targeted traffic, and generate valuable leads. Remember to partner with reputable solo ad vendors, craft compelling emails, and optimize your landing pages for maximum conversions. With careful planning and consistent monitoring, solo ads can unlock the full potential of your affiliate marketing endeavors.

The Viral Takeover: How Instagram and TikTok are Revolutionizing Traditional News

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| Bussiness, Computer News, Computer Technology

In today’s digital age, social media platforms have become powerful tools for disseminating information and connecting with a vast audience. Among the most influential platforms are Instagram and TikTok, where viral content spreads like wildfire, capturing the attention of millions worldwide. Beyond controversies of unreliable information due to purchased Tiktok and Instagram accounts on sites like vinyadmedia.no in Norway, there’s no denying that news spread like wildfire on social media platforms. As these platforms continue to evolve, they are reshaping the landscape of traditional news and challenging established media outlets. This article explores the impact of Instagram and TikTok on conventional news and how they revolutionize the way we consume information.

The Rise of Instagram and TikTok

Instagram’s Visual Storytelling

Instagram, a photo and video-sharing platform, burst onto the social media scene in 2010 and quickly gained popularity, boasting over a billion monthly active users today. Initially known for its aesthetic appeal and user-generated content, Instagram has evolved into a hub for news consumption. With features like Instagram Stories, users can share real-time updates and engage with content from creators and news organizations alike.

TikTok’s Bite-Sized News

TikTok, launched in 2016, took the world by storm with its short-form videos and addictive algorithm. The platform’s unique format allows users to create and share content in 15 to 60-second snippets, making it an ideal medium for news consumption among younger demographics. TikTok’s “For You” page algorithm recommends personalized content, exposing users to a diverse range of news topics and perspectives.

The Influence of Instagram and TikTok on Traditional News

Speed and Accessibility

One of the most significant ways Instagram and TikTok are revolutionizing traditional news is through their speed and accessibility. While traditional news outlets often follow a structured editorial process, social media platforms enable real-time reporting, allowing users to share news as it happens. This immediacy ensures that users stay informed about the latest events, breaking news, and trending stories, all at their fingertips.

User-Generated Content as News

On Instagram and TikTok, user-generated content has become a valuable source of news. In many instances, eyewitnesses capture and share footage of important events, giving a unique, firsthand perspective. These viral videos often go on to be picked up by traditional news outlets, amplifying the voices of individuals who may not have had a platform otherwise. This democratization of news empowers users to shape the narrative and share stories that matter to them.

Engaging and Interactive Formats

Both Instagram and TikTok excel in delivering news in engaging and interactive formats. Instagram’s Stories feature allows users to post a series of photos or videos that disappear after 24 hours. This format lends itself well to news updates, behind-the-scenes coverage, and interactive polls, encouraging user participation and fostering a sense of community engagement.

TikTok’s short-form videos are highly shareable and often include text overlays, captions, and catchy soundtracks. News organizations and journalists have embraced this format to present news stories in an entertaining and concise manner. By leveraging creative editing techniques and captivating visuals, TikTok has made news more accessible and appealing to younger audiences who may be less inclined to traditional news sources.

Challenges and Opportunities for Traditional News Outlets

Evolving Business Models

The rise of Instagram and TikTok poses both challenges and opportunities for traditional news outlets. With the decline in print circulation and ad revenue, media organizations have had to adapt their business models to compete in the digital landscape. Many outlets have recognized the value of social media platforms and established a presence on Instagram and TikTok to reach wider audiences. By leveraging the platforms’ reach and engagement, traditional news outlets can attract new readers and viewers while diversifying their revenue streams.

Ensuring Accuracy and Credibility

While social media platforms offer an unprecedented opportunity for news organizations to connect with audiences, they also present challenges in terms of accuracy and credibility. The viral nature of content on Instagram and TikTok can lead to the spread of misinformation and the amplification of unverified sources. Traditional news outlets play a crucial role in fact-checking and verifying information before sharing it with their audience. By upholding rigorous journalistic standards, they can provide reliable news in an era where misinformation runs rampant.

Collaboration and Partnerships

To navigate the evolving media landscape, collaboration and partnerships between traditional news outlets and social media platforms are key. Instagram and TikTok have recognized the significance of news content and have initiated collaborations with news organizations to promote accurate reporting. By working together, these platforms and traditional news outlets can create a more reliable and informative news ecosystem that benefits both content creators and consumers.

Conclusion

The rise of Instagram and TikTok has had a profound impact on traditional news. These platforms offer unprecedented speed, accessibility, and user-generated content, revolutionizing the way we consume and engage with news. While challenges such as misinformation persist, there are ample opportunities for collaboration and innovation. As social media continues to evolve, traditional news outlets must adapt, embrace new formats, and prioritize accuracy and credibility to thrive in the digital age. By harnessing the power of Instagram, TikTok, and other emerging platforms, the future of news consumption holds tremendous potential for both content creators and audiences alike.

Windows VPS vs. Other Hosting Solutions: Making an Informed Decision

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| Computer News

Choosing the right hosting solution is crucial for the success of your website or application. With a plethora of options available, it can be challenging to determine which one best suits your needs. In this article, we will compare Windows VPS with other hosting solutions to help you make an informed decision. By understanding the unique features, benefits, and considerations of each option, you can confidently choose the hosting solution that aligns with your requirements.

Understanding Windows VPS

Windows VPS, or Virtual Private Server, offers a dedicated virtual environment within a shared physical server. It provides the flexibility and control of a dedicated server without the high costs. With Windows VPS, you have access to your own resources, including processing power, memory, and storage. This allows for optimal performance and scalability, making it ideal for resource-intensive applications or websites that require Windows-based software.

Shared Hosting

Shared hosting is a popular and cost-effective option for small websites or beginners. In shared hosting, multiple websites share the same server resources. While this makes it affordable, it also means limited control and resources. Shared hosting is suitable for websites with low to moderate traffic and minimal resource requirements.

Dedicated Server Hosting

Dedicated server hosting offers maximum control and resources as you have an entire physical server dedicated solely to your website or application. This option is ideal for large-scale websites or applications with high traffic and resource demands. However, dedicated servers can be expensive and require technical expertise for setup and maintenance.

Cloud Hosting

Cloud hosting leverages a network of interconnected virtual servers, guaranteeing exceptional availability and scalability. Its notable advantage lies in its flexibility, allowing you to effortlessly adjust resources according to your requirements. Cloud hosting is particularly well-suited for websites or applications that encounter varying levels of traffic and necessitate immediate scalability.

ALSO READ: Cape Town SA : Why the Silicon Cape is Not Affected by Eskom’s Load Shedding

Factors to Consider

When choosing between Windows VPS and other hosting solutions, several factors come into play. Consider the specific requirements of your website or application, such as the expected traffic, resource needs, and software compatibility. Also, evaluate the level of control and customization you require, as well as your budgetary constraints.

Making an Informed Decision

To make an informed decision, assess your unique needs and compare them with the features and benefits of each hosting solution. Consider factors such as performance, scalability, control, reliability, security, and cost. Additionally, research customer reviews and seek expert advice to gain insights into the experiences of others who have used these hosting solutions.

Conclusion

Choosing the right hosting solution is vital for the success and performance of your website or application. By comparing Windows VPS with other hosting options, you can weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision. Windows VPS offers the flexibility, control, and scalability required for Windows-based applications, while other solutions like shared hosting, dedicated server hosting, and cloud hosting cater to different needs. Take the time to assess your requirements and consider the features and benefits of each option to ensure your hosting solution aligns perfectly with your goals.

Cape Town SA : Why the Silicon Cape is Not Affected by Eskom’s Load Shedding

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| Bussiness

Cape Town is ranked as the best city in South Africa for entrepreneurial start ups, whilst standing out in the 60th position along with global counterparts and competitors. Fortunately for Cape Town and West Cape residents, Eskom controls only 25% of the electrical power produced by the national power grid in the Mpumalanga coalfields. Additionally, the city draws about 5% of its power supply from the Koeberg Nuclear Power Plant in the West Coast outside the city center. As it is, Cape Town runs its own power distribution network, supplying the remaining uninterrupted 75% of electricity to the city’s businesses and residents.

Since Eskom can control only 25% of the power produced by the Mpumalanga power station, load shedding events remain at Stage 1 category. This means Cape Town’s participation in the load distribution activities involve minimal amounts for the least period of time, usually 2 to 3 hours during load shedding schedules involving Cape Town.

Factors that Make Cape Town an Ideal Place for South African Startups

The existence of different financial institutions and investment firms inspired talented fintech startups to develop software and applications that enabled ordinary people in different countries to grow their savings through micro investments and with the help of robo advisors.
At the same time, financial institutions also needed help in facing the emerging challenges of issues raised against secret accounts and shell companies. Cape Town after all, is well known for being a tax haven with tax laws that pose detriments to the tax collection efforts of other countries.

Since then and with the technology provided by the startup fintechs, Cape Town has been observed to be growing by leaps and bounds. Based on a pre-pandemic survey conducted in 2018 by the Ventureburn Tech Start-up Survey, about 36% of start-ups in Cape Town earned substantial profits.

Another important factor that has been enabling tech startups to make the city the digital capital of South Africa are the collaborations between the state government and corporate organizations. Moreover, the consumers as community members of the city are quite supportive of the new products and services offered by Cape Town’s startup companies operating across a broad range of business sectors. Currently, about 97 startup companies are already doing well in Cape Town, providing tech solutions to about 79 service providers and industrial businesses in Cape Town.
At present, the city’s government officials and business leaders are looking to have 100% control over the city’s electric supply. The move to do so is in line with their plan to make Cape Town the “Tech Capital of South Africa.” As a matter of fact, the city is already known as Silicon Cape, owing to the presence of major IT companies like Oracle, IBM. Microsoft, Google, Bloomberg and Amazon.