Uncategorized Archives - Computer Services & Solutions, INC.

How to Manually Install uBlock Origin on Chrome Without the Web Store

Robert Hoblit — Mon, 14 Oct 2024 20:32:13 +0000

Are you looking to install uBlock Origin on Google Chrome or a Chromium-based browser without using the Chrome Web Store? This step-by-step guide will help you manually install the extension, ensuring that you have full control over updates. This method is especially useful if you’re unable to access the Chrome Web Store or if uBlock Origin is ever disabled or removed from the store.

Want to Install uBlock Origin using the Web Store Instead?

Install uBlock Origin on Chrome

Why Manually Install uBlock Origin?

Manually installing uBlock Origin not only gives you flexibility over updates, but it also acts as a lifesaver if the Chrome Web Store removes or disables the extension. By sideloading the extension, you can continue using uBlock Origin without interruption, even if it becomes unavailable in the store. This method ensures you have a reliable ad-blocker at all times.

Step 1: Download the Latest uBlock Origin Release for Chromium

Download uBlock Origin: Head over to the uBlock Origin GitHub releases page and download the latest release of the uBlock Origin extension for Chromium-based browsers. You’ll want to download the ublock0.chromium.zip file.
Unzip the file: After downloading, unzip the ublock0.chromium.zip file. You can use any file compression tool like WinRAR, 7-Zip, or your system’s built-in unzip feature.

Step 2: Prepare the Extension Directory

Rename the folder: Once unzipped, rename the resulting folder to something simple, like uBlock. This will make it easier to manage and find when updating or reinstalling.
Ensure settings are preserved: When you later update uBlock Origin manually, you can simply replace the contents of this folder with the new version. As long as the folder name and its location stay the same, your settings will be preserved.

Step 3: Load the Extension in Chrome/Chromium

Open Chrome Extensions page: Open Google Chrome (or your Chromium-based browser) and navigate to the extensions management page. You can do this by entering chrome://extensions/ in the address bar.
Enable Developer Mode: At the top right of the Extensions page, you’ll see a toggle for Developer Mode. Click this to enable it, which allows you to load unpacked extensions.
Click ‘Load Unpacked’: Once Developer Mode is on, click the button that says Load unpacked extension….
Select the uBlock Origin folder: In the file selection dialog, navigate to the folder you created in step 3. Select this folder and click Open/Select Folder.
Installation complete: Your Chrome or Chromium browser now loads and makes the uBlock Origin extension available.

Step 4: Updating uBlock Origin Manually

Remember, because you manually installed uBlock Origin, it won’t update automatically. However, this also means you get to control when and how to update it, which comes with its own benefits:

Update at your own pace: You can choose when to update. Allowing you to avoid potential bugs or issues in newer versions.
Revert to previous versions easily: If a new version introduces problems or unwanted changes, you can easily reinstall the previous version by downloading and unzipping it into the same uBlock folder.

What to Do If the Chrome Web Store Disables uBlock Origin

If the Chrome Web Store ever removes or disables the uBlock Origin extension—whether due to policy changes, temporary issues, or unforeseen conflicts—this manual installation process becomes even more crucial. By sideloading extensions, you can:

Continue using uBlock Origin: If the extension is no longer available in the Web Store, sideloading it allows you to use it without interruption.
Prevent loss of settings: Since your settings are saved locally in the ublock folder, you don’t need to worry about losing your configuration even if the extension is disabled or unavailable for reinstallation from the Web Store.
Stay in control: You are not reliant on the Web Store for updates or installation. Giving you the flexibility to manage your browser’s ad-blocking functionality independently.

Why Is Google Disabling Manifest V2 and How It Affects uBlock

Google is phasing out Manifest V2 to introduce Manifest V3, which aims to improve privacy, security, and performance in Chrome extensions. However, this change limits how extensions like uBlock Origin block ads and filter content. With Manifest V3, uBlock’s ability to block ads and trackers may be reduced due to stricter controls on network requests.
To adapt, uBlock has introduced uBlock Origin Lite (uBOL), a Manifest V3-compatible, permission-less content blocker. uBOL blocks ads and trackers right away, uses fewer system resources, and doesn’t require broad permissions. Users can grant extra permissions on specific sites to enable advanced filtering.
While Manifest V3 may reduce the original uBlock Origin’s power. uBOL offers a lightweight solution for privacy-conscious users who want efficient ad-blocking without heavy permissions.

Conclusion

Manually installing uBlock Origin on Chrome or Chromium-based browsers lets you control updates and ensures you can keep using the extension. Even if the Chrome Web Store removes or disables it. Sideloading offers a reliable way to maintain access to your preferred ad-blocker. This way you can continue enjoying an ad-free browsing experience.

Be sure to check for updates regularly on the uBlock Origin GitHub page to stay current with the latest security improvements and features.

Tired of ads but worried about important emails not making it to your inbox? While tools like uBlock protects you from unwanted distractions online, FixEmail ensures your emails reach their destination safely. With automated DMARC setup and phishing protection, you can secure your brand and inbox effortlessly. Start for FREE today and enjoy peace of mind with every email sent! View FixEmail now!

Need Help?

Is your organization looking to enhance online security and improve browsing experiences? Contact us today for a consultation to learn how we can help ensure the safety and efficiency of your online activities. Let us assist you in creating a more secure digital environment!

Contact & Location

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Install uBlock Origin on Chrome

Amber Kidwell — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 17:38:22 +0000

This instructional guide will walk you through how to install uBlock Origin on Chrome.
With just a few simple steps, you can boost your online security, ensuring a cleaner and safer browsing experience.

Want to Install uBlock Origin Manually Without the Use of Chrome Web Store?

How to Manually Install uBlock Origin on Chrome Without the Web Store

Chrome Web Store

Firstly, you need to open chrome on your computer, tablet, or smartphone to begin the process to install the uBlock Origin extension in Chrome.

In the address bar at the top of the screen or in the search box, type “chrome web store” and press Enter.

From the search results that appear, click Chrome Web Store to be directed to the website.

Search for uBlock Origin

Once you are on the Chrome Web Store website, click inside the search extensions and themes box located in the upper right corner.

Next, type “uBlock Origin” into the box.
You can either click the uBlock Origin extension directly from the popup window of results or you can press Enter and select the uBlock Origin extension from the search results.

NOTE: To clarify, you want to make sure you select uBlock Origins. You DO NOT want to select uBlock or uBlock Origin Lite.

Add to Chrome

From the uBlock Origin extension page, click the blue button labeled ‘Add to Chrome’ near the upper right portion of the screen.

A small pop-up message will appear similar to the one below.

Lastly, click ‘Add extension’ to install uBlock Origin.

Ensure the extension is active

In case you do not see the extension in the upper right corner of your browser after installation, click the ‘Extensions’ icon (represented by a puzzle piece).

If the uBlock extension appears in the ‘Extensions’ pop-up window, it is installed and active.

If the uBlock extension does not appear, click manage extensions. This will redirect you to your Chrome extensions page.

When in your Chrome extensions page, ensure you see the uBlock Origin extension.

If you do see the extension, make sure the slider within its box is to the right (the slider will be blue). This position means the extension is active.
Extension is INACTIVE

Extension is ACTIVE

However, if you do not see the extension, please attempt to install the extension again by following the steps outlined above.

Once the extension is installed and active, no other actions are needed. You can resume using Chrome as per usual.

In conclusion, taking charge of your online security doesn’t have to be complicated. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide to install the uBlock extension in Chrome, you’ve empowered yourself to enjoy a cleaner and safer browsing experience. Now, with enhanced security measures in place, you can navigate the digital landscape with confidence, free from unwanted distractions and potential threats. Embrace a more secure online journey and make the most out of your time on the web. Happy browsing!

NOTE: If this article helped you install on one computer, and you would like to install uBlock Origin on all the computers in your organization, contact us!

We can automate software installation or install and control any software necessary across all your computers. We can also simplify PC password management and protect the encryption and security of the computers.

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How to attach SharePoint files as links in Outlook

Amber Kidwell — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 22:49:49 +0000

Discover an easier way to attach SharePoint files as links in Outlook.
Some benefits of sharing SharePoint file links instead of attaching them directly to an email include:

- simplifies collaboration
- makes it easier for everyone to access and work on the same file (including at the same time)
- saves space in the user’s email
- keeps versions consistent for everyone involved
- ensures security by granting controlled access to the file.

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for 3 different ways to attach SharePoint links to an email in Outlook.

NOTE: The file you are attempting to share a link to MUST be saved within SharePoint prior to attempting these options. If the file is not saved to SharePoint, you may experience different pop-up windows, possible error messages, or potential prompts to save the document prior to sending.

Click on one of the topics below to view the instructions.

Within Microsoft Apps (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)

Begin by opening the file in the necessary Microsoft app and click ‘File’ in the upper left corner

Next, in the banner on the left, click ‘Share’

Then, a Share “file name” pop-up window appears.

While in this window, you have two options:
Send directly from the Microsoft app.
Click inside the top box to find a list of people within your organization that you can send the link to.
Select the individual(s) to add them. You can also add a message, but this is optional.

Once you are finished, click send.

A new message confirming the link has been shared appears. Click the X in the top right corner of the message to close it.

The recipients of your file share receive an email similar to the one below. The file opens within the necessary Microsoft web-based app.
Copy the link and paste into an email within Outlook (desktop app)
From the share window, click ‘Copy Link’. A small box appears to confirm the link has been copied.

Open your existing draft, reply, or new email in Outlook. There are two main ways to paste the link into the email CTRL+V or Right-Click.
CTRL+V
If you click into the area to write your message and press CTRL+V, the link appears as the file name like in the example below.

You may also see a small pop up window. Click anywhere within the email to dismiss.
Right-Click
If you right-click in the area to write your message, you can click one of the paste options.

Keep Source Formatting: This option pastes the link as the file name with default font and sizing (Font Calibri size 11 is the standard for most).

Merge Formatting: This option pastes the link as the file name and matches the font and sizing of your email.

Keep Text Only: This option pastes the link as the file path and matches the font and sizing of your email.

NOTE: If you do use the Keep Text Only paste option, you MUST press Enter, Tab, or Space to turn the text into a link. You know the text is a link when it turns blue and is underlined. You may also see a small Microsoft app icon appear at the beginning of the file path.
File path before Enter, Tab, or Space:

File path after Enter, Tab, or Space:
Within Microsoft Outlook (desktop app)

If you have recently opened the SharePoint file you are wanting to send in an email. You may have the option to attach the link directly from Outlook.
Start by opening a draft, reply, or new email in Outlook and ensure you are under the ‘Message’ tab that is located near the top right corner.

In the banner below the ‘Message’ tab, click the paperclip icon.

This reveals some recent items that you have opened. Locate the SharePoint file you want to share in the email. Make sure the file icon includes a cloud and click the file to attach it to the email.
NOTE: In the event that the file icon DOES NOT have a cloud, it is a ‘local’ file and attaches to the email as a copy that does not update with the SharePoint file and needs to be downloaded by the recipient for them to edit.

If the file icon does include a cloud, the pop-up message below appears. Click ‘Share Link’
The link attaches to the email like a normal attachment. However, you want to double check that the attachment icon includes a cloud.

The link attaches to the email like a normal attachment. However, you want to double check that the attachment icon includes a cloud.

NOTE: A warning similar to the one below may appear stating that you do not have permission to give others access to the file. When you share the file with an individual within your organization who also has access to the SharePoint site, the warning can be dismissed. When you are needing to share the file with an individual outside your organization, you can click ‘Attach as Copy’. If the individual outside your organization is needing to have access to the SharePoint file for co-editing and continuous access, please contact your IT team about granting the individual access to the file.
If your organization is needing an IT team, contact us!
From the SharePoint site (web version)

Navigate to your organization’s SharePoint site within your preferred web browser. Within the SharePoint site, locate the file you are wanting to share.
There are several options for attaching the file link to an email from the SharePoint site though they are all very similar.
NOTE: These options only work if the individual you are sharing the file with is within your organization and has permission to access the SharePoint site. If the individual is not within your organization and only needs limited access, consider sending them a copy. On the occasion that the individual is within your organization and does not have access or if the individual is outside your organization but they need access to the SharePoint file for co-editing and continuous access, please contact your IT team about granting the individual access to the file.
If your organization is needing an IT team, contact us!
Three Dots
On the right side of the file name are three dots. Click the three dots for a pop-up window to appear.

While in this pop-up, you can highlight the link path within the small text box and right click to copy it. Then open your draft, reply, or new email and paste the path into the email.

NOTE: You need to make sure you copy the entire path to avoid any potential issues with sharing the file.
Share Button
Additionally, you can click ‘Share’ in the pop-up window to be provided three options for sharing the file.
Invite People
This option allows you to create a list of individuals to send the file link to.
Click inside the top large box and begin typing the name or email address of the individual in your organization that you would like to share the file with.
Then, select the individual from the options that pop up to add them. Their name is underlined and has an ‘X’ on the right side when you successfully add them to the list.
You may add a message, but this is optional.
Once you are finished, click share.

The pop-up message closes automatically, and a small banner message appears in the top right corner of the SharePoint site, confirming the sharing of the file. This message disappears automatically.

The recipients of your file share receive an email similar to the one below. The file opens within the necessary Microsoft web-based app.
Get a Link
This option allows you to highlight the link path within the small text box and right click to copy it. Then open your draft, reply, or new email and paste the path into the email with either CTRL+V or Right-Click.
NOTE: You want to make sure you copy the entire path to avoid any potential issues with sharing the file.
Share With
This option allows you to see everyone who has access to the file and allows you to email everyone simultaneously. Click ‘EMAIL EVERYONE’ to send out this email.
Drag and Drop
You can drag and drop files directly from the SharePoint site into an Outlook email. First, hold left-click on the file name on the SharePoint site. While still holding the left mouse button, drag the mouse to the open draft, reply, or new email. Then, when your mouse is in the message area of the email, release the left-click. The file link appears in the email. The video below provides an example.

In conclusion, mastering the art of attaching SharePoint files as links in Outlook can significantly enhance your workflow, promote seamless collaboration, and efficient communication. By following one of the options within this step-by-step guide, you’ll unlock a powerful tool for optimizing file sharing, ensuring a more streamlined and productive work experience. Elevate your productivity by incorporating this simple yet impactful technique into your daily routine, and enjoy the benefits of a more connected and efficient work environment.

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How to Encrypt Emails in Microsoft Outlook

Amber Kidwell — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 14:19:36 +0000

Learn how to encrypt emails in Microsoft Outlook by following these active steps.

NOTE: Before proceeding with these instructions, you must have the encrypted email feature configured.

If your company is needing an IT Team to assist with email encryption or other cybersecurity support, contact us!

To mark a message as encrypted, simply type [Secure] in the subject (capitalization doesn’t matter).

Alternatively, there is an ‘Encrypt’ button under ‘Options’ in the Outlook toolbar when composing a new message. Click the button and select ‘Encrypt’ to apply encryption to your message (see below).
NOTE: When using the encrypt button, there’s no need to type [Secure] in the subject.

*Your IT Team can configure specific settings, so if you encounter something you don’t like, they can make adjustments.

When sending an encrypted email to another Microsoft Outlook user, the encryption and decryption process occurs automatically. No additional actions are required on the recipient’s end.

If the recipient isn’t a Microsoft 365 customer, additional steps are necessary. Refer to the following link for instructions on opening an encrypted message:
How do I open a protected message?

To test this yourself, send an encrypted message to your personal email account and follow the steps to access it.

If you have any further questions about how to encrypt emails in Microsoft Outlook, contact us!

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Recover Saved Mikrotik Winbox Password

Tyler — Thu, 20 Dec 2018 21:44:24 +0000

Here’s the scenario, you have a saved password in Winbox for the admin user and you can sign in, but you don’t know what the password is.

There are tons of posts about recovering Mikrotik passwords if you have an Address.cdb file, but unfortunately those only apply to older versions of Winbox.

The best thing to do is log into Winbox with your saved credentials and create a new user with Group: full.

Then reset the admin password and log in. For safety, log into the web interface so you don’t accidentally burn your saved Winbox password.

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Not Able To Send Email to Hilton.com

Tyler — Wed, 09 May 2018 19:52:40 +0000

Recently Hilton.com made security changes to their email, preventing some domains from being able to send to it. This is a security improvement, but does have consequences for misconfigured email senders. This is likely a misconfiguration of your email. CSSI can work with you to configure your email so it can send to Hilton.com. Give us a call at 869-226-9222 to discuss an email audit for your email.

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Hybrid Server Managed Backup Solutions

Tyler — Wed, 25 Apr 2018 14:16:30 +0000

If a server does not have a backup and crashes, all data could be lost. Even if data could be recovered, data recovery can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars – and include possible downtime of several days or more. The hard drive that stores the data is a moving part, that will eventually deteriorate, fail, and require replacement. When this time comes it is very important to have a backup. (Proactive measures can be taken to determine when a drive is failing – which we cover with our Server Monitoring package)

A backup solution protects from data loss in the event of server failure. A managed backup solution provides monitoring of the backup – confirming it is working as expected. It is very important to monitor the backup solution for failures. It is common for a non-managed backup solution to have an issue and stop backing up, making the backup setup useless. CSSI’s managed backup solution monitors the backup, confirming the backup is completing and the backup software is working appropriately.

CSSI recommends a hybrid local and cloud backup as this combination offers protection from most types of possible hardware or software failures. After the initial setup, CSSI will manage both the local and cloud backups for you – looking for issues on a daily basis and doing any maintenance necessary.

Local Backup: The local backup provides a complete backup of your server to an external hard drive or local backup server. A local backup has many advantages: Restoring from a local backup is faster than from a cloud backup. Additionally, local backup allows full restoration of an entire server, while a cloud backup typically provides file-level backup. A disadvantage of local backup is that it does not protect from fire or other damages to the hardware. To address this disadvantage, CSSI recommends the local backup drive be rotated out weekly to provide full offsite redundancy for your server. If a fire destroyed the backup drive you could restore the server from the offsite backup drive, but the files would be out of date. This is where cloud backup has advantages.

Cloud Backup: The cloud backup provides a file-level backup of your server to a secure and encrypted cloud storage. Cloud backup protects from physical destruction like tornadoes or fire and has the advantage of always being up-to-date. A disadvantage of cloud backup is that it can’t typically do full server backup – just file level.

Solution – Hybrid Managed Backup Solution (Local and Cloud Backup)

CSSI manages and provides all labor, hardware and software required for multiple levels of backup. Protects the server, user information on server, and files.

Backup of server including different facets required for server
Managed – monitor the daily, weekly, and monthly operations of each backup level
All hardware and subscriptions provided and managed by CSSI
Multiple level backup AND multiple generation backup
- Local Backups
  - Backup of everything listed below
  - Rotating hard drives (daily backup, approximately 2-month history kept, rotated onsite)
  - Drive rotated by designated client user (CSSI does all the server and software – client just has to plug in cable periodically)
- Additional Cloud backups
  - All client data (file shares)
  - Does exclude some server/IT information
  - This additional redundancy is a cloud based backup service with additional daily backup and approximately 3 week history kept
- Complete CSSI management of the backup process, ongoing audit and checks of backup
- CSSI availability for support from simple deleted file restore to recovery of an entire server
- Items to be backed up
  - Server Operating System
  - User database
  - Shared files
  - Server configuration information (also includes IT information and assets like DNS, DHCP, Group Policy and other data as appropriate)

Interested in securing your data? Contact CSSI, in Lexington, Kentucky, and a technician will reach out to you!

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How To Get The Name of Your Computer

Tyler — Thu, 22 Feb 2018 18:04:28 +0000

Here’s how to get your computer name. If you don’t know which version of Windows you are using see How to Tell Which Version of Windows You Are Running.

Windows 11:

Right click on the Start button
Click System
Under Device Name you can find your computer name

Windows 10:

Right click on the Start button
Click System
Under Device Name you can find your computer name

Windows 8.1:

Right click on the Start button
Click System
Under Computer name, domain, and workgroup settings, you can find your computer name

Windows 8:

Hover the mouse at the top right
Click the settings cog > PC info.
Under Computer name, domain, and workgroup settings, you can find your computer name

Windows 7:

Open System by clicking the Start button.
Right-click on Computer, and then clicking Properties
Under Computer name, domain, and workgroup settings, you can find your computer name

Windows Vista:

Open System by clicking the Start button.
Click on Control Panel > System and Maintenance, and then clicking System.
Your Computer Name is listed under Full Computer Name.

Windows XP:

Right-Click My Computer and Select Properties
Click the Computer Name tab.
Your Computer Name is listed under Full Computer Name.

MacOS 13 (Ventura) and MacOS 14 (Sonoma):

Click the Apple menu and then System Settings.
Click General in the sidebar.
Click About on the right. (You may need to scroll down.)

>MacOS 12 (Monterey) and older:

Click the Apple menu and then System Settings.
Click on the Sharing pane.
Your Computer Name is listed at the top of the pane.

iOS:

Launch your Settings app
Press General and then press About.
Your iOS device name will be at the top left of the screen.

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Send from Office 365 Shared Mailbox with Thunderbird

Tyler — Mon, 03 Jul 2017 15:30:17 +0000

We have a client that wanted to authenticate with SMTP to send out from a shared mailbox. noreply was the name of the shared mailbox. Below is the configuration. User has to have full access and send-as permissions for the mailbox. Hopefully this helps someone trying to accomplish the same thing.

Exchange Configuration:
USER EMAIL: user@domain.com
PASSWORD: password

SHARED MAILBOX: shared@domain.com
SHARED MAILBOX ALIAS: noreply

Settings for IMAP Configuration:
EMAIL ADDRESS: noreply@domain.com (shared mailbox)
IMAP SERVER: outlook.office365.com
SMTP SERVER: smtp.office365.com (port 587)
USERNAME: user@domain.com\noreply (user\shared mailbox alias)
PASSWORD: password (user’s password)
SMTP LOGIN IS DIFFERENT (!)
USERNAME: user@domain.com (users email)
PASSWORD: password (user’s password)

Source for information

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Guide Realty Mixer at Lexington Beerworks

Tyler — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 13:28:46 +0000

Last night we went to a Guide Realty mixer hosted by Raquel Carter. Special thanks to Lexington Beerworks for hosting the event!

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