Software
Applications, browsers and tools for getting work done.
What Is End-to-End Encryption? Devices, Keys and Backups
Encryption protects a message between its endpoints.
Authenticator App vs SMS: How the Login Codes Differ
App codes avoid phone-number delivery, but app and SMS codes can both be phished.
What Is a Security Key? How Hardware Keys Stop Phishing
A small device that proves it is you when you sign in, and that a fake login page cannot trick.
Before You Install a Browser Extension, Check These Permissions
Compare an extension's requested access with the task you expect it to perform.
Local-First Apps: What Changes When Your Files Stay on Your Device?
Local-first software keeps a usable copy on your device and synchronizes it with other copies.
What Is a Passkey? How Passkeys Work and How to Set One Up
A passkey lets you sign in with your fingerprint, face or device PIN instead of a password.
Software explainers on Next F9 cover the choices that shape everyday computing: what a passkey is and how it replaces a password with your fingerprint, face or device PIN, which browser extension permissions to compare with the job you expect, and what changes when local-first apps keep your files on your device. For dated releases, read Software news or visit the Software desk.