Preston Gralla
Contributing Editor
Preston Gralla is a contributing editor for Computerworld, a blogger for ITworld, and the author of more than 45 books, including NOOK Tablet: The Missing Manual (O'Reilly 2012) and How the Internet Works (Que, 2006).
Feds to Microsoft: Clean up your security act — or else
The US government, worried about the increasing role of rival nations in cyberattacks and cybercrime, looks poised to force tech companies to do more about security.
Bing’s AI chatbot came to work for me. I had to fire it.
When used for business, the chatbot embedded in Microsoft's Bing search engine is a bit sycophantic and fails to complete most tasks. Still, it shows real promise.
As Microsoft embraces AI, it says sayonara to the metaverse
Just two years ago, Microsoft execs were hailing the metaverse as a game-changer — just as they’re talking up AI now. Well, how did that turn out?
Windows 12 and AI: a coming boon or boondoggle?
Microsoft is making a heavy push into AI and promising it will radically change how Windows works. But is that more hype and hope than reality?
How to protect your privacy in Windows 11
Windows 11 gathers more information than some people would like. Here are several steps you can take to keep that information private.
How Microsoft is helping Ukraine’s cyberwar against Russia
Microsoft's efforts to aid Ukraine aren't just altruistic; by fending off Russian cyberattacks, the company is helping its customers, too.
This lawsuit against Microsoft could change the future of AI
With ChatGPT, artificial intelligence and what it can do is suddenly all the rage. But an intellectual property lawsuit against Microsoft could undermine the future of AI before it gets off the ground.
Did Microsoft make a bad $69B bet on Activision Blizzard?
The company's plans to buy the gaming rival have already generated US government pushback. Could that unwelcome distraction slow Microsoft's recent progress?
Handy PowerPoint keyboard shortcuts for Windows and Mac
Whether you’re creating a presentation or giving one, you can do it more efficiently with the help of keyboard shortcuts in the Microsoft PowerPoint desktop app for Windows or macOS.
5 things Elon Musk could learn from Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella
The way Satya Nadella turned around Microsoft when he became CEO could not be more different than how Elon Musk has treated Twitter since taking over.
How to protect your privacy in Windows 10
Worried about privacy in Windows 10? Here's what you can do.
Windows 11 22H2: Small but welcome changes
A handful of tweaks improve the Start menu, Task Manager, and File Explorer, but the most anticipated new feature is absent.
Google Workspace vs. Microsoft 365: What’s the best office suite for business?
Google Workspace has become a powerful, feature-filled alternative to Microsoft Office. We break down the pros and cons of each suite to help you decide which is right for your business.
How to protect Windows 10 and 11 PCs from ransomware
Ransomware is running rampant, but there are several ways individuals and admins can protect their Windows 10 and 11 PCs. Here’s what to do.
Word for Microsoft 365 cheat sheet
Are you getting the most from Word for Microsoft 365/Office 365 in Windows? Learn to use the best new features.
What’s coming in Windows 11 22H2
Get a sneak peek at the main features arriving with the first Windows 11 feature update this fall.
Russia is losing the cyberwar against Ukraine, too
Not only has Russia seen setbacks on the battlefield in Ukraine, it's not faring well in the less-obvious cyberwar either. One reason: Russia's ally Belarus was still using Windows XP to keep the trains running on time.
Cortana explained: Rocky past, promising future for Microsoft’s digital assistant
At first meant to compete with virtual assistants like Siri, Google Now, and Alexa, Cortana has been stripped of many functions and seemingly left to wither away. But its business-focused reboot may hold the key to long-term success.
Windows is in Moscow’s crosshairs, too
Before Russia invaded Ukraine this week, cyberattacks were already under way. Not surprisingly, Windows systems were a common target.