Split image showing the contrast between an early 2000s desktop PC with a bulky CRT monitor and a modern web browser on a sleek laptop. The image highlights the evolution of technology from powerful hardware control in old PCs to modern cloud-based applications accessed via web browsers.

What Can PCs Do That Web Browsers Still Can’t in 2024?

In the 20 years since the early 2000s, web browsers have evolved from simple document viewers to powerful platforms capable of running sophisticated applications. We can now design websites, create graphics, edit videos, and even play games directly within a browser. However, despite these advancements, there are still some tasks that web browsers cannot handle as effectively as traditional PCs. While modern web technologies like WebGL, WebAssembly, and Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) have significantly expanded browser capabilities, some areas remain beyond their reach. This article explores what PCs could do in 2004 that web browsers in 2024 still struggle to match.

Direct Access to Hardware

One of the major areas where traditional PCs still have an edge over web browsers is hardware access. In the early 2000s, PCs allowed users to interact directly with hardware components like the CPU, GPU, and storage devices. This made it possible to install device drivers, write low-level programs, and even tweak BIOS settings. Web browsers, by design, operate in a highly secure, sandboxed environment. While modern APIs like WebGL allow some access to graphics processing for tasks like 3D rendering, browsers still lack the low-level control required for more sophisticated operations. For example, you can’t write custom drivers or modify hardware configurations within a browser due to security limitations.

This restriction is crucial for maintaining a secure and stable environment. Browsers isolate themselves from the underlying hardware to prevent malicious scripts or web applications from causing damage. However, this also limits their ability to perform tasks that require direct hardware manipulation, such as configuring RAID arrays or adjusting power settings for optimal performance. Despite the advances in browser technology, PCs remain the go-to platform for users who need fine-grained control over their hardware.

High-End Gaming Performance

Gaming has always been a frontier for pushing the limits of hardware, and even in 2024, web browsers can’t match the high-end gaming experience of a dedicated gaming PC. Twenty years ago, gamers relied on powerful desktop machines to run graphically intense titles like “Half-Life 2” or “Doom 3,” leveraging full access to the GPU and CPU. Today, while technologies like WebGL and WebGPU have made it possible to run simple 3D games within a browser, the performance and graphical fidelity still fall short of what native applications can achieve.

Web-based games struggle to compete with modern AAA titles that require extensive hardware resources, such as ray tracing and real-time 3D rendering at high frame rates. Native applications on gaming PCs can fully utilize advanced GPU features and custom hardware configurations like gaming controllers, VR headsets, and ultra-high refresh rate monitors. While browser-based games can be impressive, particularly for casual gaming, they lack the advanced optimization and low-latency performance that dedicated gaming PCs offer.

Offline Functionality and Dependability

In 2004, PCs were designed to function offline, with most software running locally on the machine. Whether it was word processing, gaming, or media editing, everything was installed and stored on the hard drive, ready to use without an internet connection. In contrast, web browsers in 2024 still depend heavily on online connectivity. Although some technologies, like Progressive Web Apps (PWAs), have added limited offline functionality, most web applications rely on cloud services to store data and process tasks.

For example, while tools like Google Docs allow offline editing to some extent, full-featured usage requires an internet connection for saving and accessing files stored in the cloud. Many modern web apps need constant syncing with remote servers to function optimally, which isn’t ideal in areas with unreliable or limited internet access. The offline capability of native PC applications makes them far more reliable in scenarios where connectivity is an issue, offering users complete control over their software and data.

System Customization and Operating System Control

One area where traditional PCs remain unmatched by browsers is in system-level customization. In 2004, users could easily modify operating system files, install custom drivers, and even dual-boot different OSes. They had the freedom to configure their machines for specific tasks, whether that was tweaking registry settings in Windows or recompiling the Linux kernel. Web browsers, in contrast, are confined to the sandbox of the operating system they run on. They don’t allow users to make changes to core system files or interact with the OS in a meaningful way.

Even though technologies like WebAssembly have brought some low-level capabilities to the browser, they cannot offer the same degree of system-level customization. Browsers are inherently restricted to protect users from malicious activities, meaning you can’t perform tasks like optimizing RAM allocation, modifying system boot settings, or installing third-party device drivers. This level of control remains exclusive to desktop environments, making traditional PCs irreplaceable for users who need deep system customization.

Specialized Software for Professionals

While web browsers have advanced significantly, they still struggle with running professional-grade software that requires extensive system resources. Applications like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Final Cut Pro, and MATLAB remain largely confined to desktop environments due to their need for high-performance hardware and deep system integration. Although there are some browser-based alternatives, they often lack the full functionality, precision, and speed of their native counterparts.

For example, complex 3D modeling, video editing, and scientific simulations require the kind of direct access to system resources that web browsers can’t provide. Native applications can utilize every aspect of the CPU and GPU, offering better performance and responsiveness. While browser-based tools are great for casual or light usage, professionals who rely on precision and performance continue to prefer native software. This is particularly true for industries like architecture, engineering, and film production, where even slight delays or limitations can have significant consequences.

Data Privacy and Local Control

Another key difference between traditional PCs and web browsers is how they handle data privacy and storage. In the early 2000s, most PC applications stored data locally, giving users full control over their files and how they were used. Today, many web applications rely on cloud storage and cloud computing to function, raising concerns about data privacy and security. Even though browsers have introduced more robust security measures over the years, users are often required to store their data on remote servers, which can introduce privacy risks.

Local storage on PCs gives users more control over sensitive information, as they don’t need to rely on third-party cloud services to access or manage their files. This is especially important for industries handling confidential information, such as healthcare, finance, or legal services, where local control over data is critical. While browsers offer convenience and cloud-based collaboration, traditional PCs provide a more secure and controlled environment for handling personal or sensitive data.

Conclusion: PCs and Browsers in 2024

In 2024, web browsers have come a long way, offering capabilities that would have been unthinkable two decades ago. However, there are still many areas where PCs remain superior, particularly when it comes to hardware control, high-end gaming, offline functionality, system customization, and professional software use. While browsers continue to improve and offer more powerful tools, the inherent limitations of operating in a sandboxed environment prevent them from fully replacing the versatility and power of native PC applications. For many specialized tasks, from professional video editing to deep system configuration, traditional PCs remain indispensable.


Abstract digital network of interconnected nodes and pathways representing website taxonomy, with glowing lines and nodes on a dark background, symbolizing a structured yet fluid organizational web.

Unraveling the Web: The Crucial Role of Website Taxonomy in the Digital Jungle

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In the vast and ever-evolving landscape of the digital world, a well-structured website taxonomy is like a trusty map, guiding both users and search engines through the intricate maze of content. At first glance, the concept of website taxonomy might seem as dry as a dusty encyclopedia, but in reality, it’s the secret sauce that makes or breaks the online experience. Imagine walking into a library where books are scattered haphazardly, with science fiction novels tucked between cookbooks and autobiographies. Chaos, right? That’s precisely what a website without a clear taxonomy looks like in the digital realm.

Each section of your website is akin to a different genre in a library, and just like a well-organized library attracts more readers, a well-structured website entices more visitors. Now, let’s dive into the magical world of website taxonomy, where every category, subcategory, and tag plays a pivotal role in crafting an enchanting user journey. From the depths of science fiction to the peaks of astronomical wonders, a solid taxonomy ensures that each topic finds its rightful place, creating a harmonious symphony of content that both delights and informs.

The GPS of Your Website: Why Taxonomy Matters

Think of your website’s taxonomy as the GPS system guiding a road trip through the internet. Without it, users are like travelers without a map, meandering aimlessly and probably ending up in the dark alleyways of Page Not Found. A well-planned taxonomy doesn’t just prevent your users from getting lost; it turns their visit into an adventure, where every click leads to new discoveries. It’s the difference between a forgettable stroll and a journey filled with ‘aha!’ moments.

A great taxonomy is a balancing act. It’s like being a party host who knows exactly how to introduce guests to one another, sparking conversations and connections. Too broad, and your guests are left awkwardly mingling; too narrow, and they’re cornered in monologues. Striking the right balance means your visitors will glide from one topic to another, effortlessly finding the content they love. And here’s the kicker: search engines are the keen observers at this party, noting which connections are most meaningful and boosting your site’s rankings accordingly.

The SEO Tango: Dancing with Search Engines

In the tango of website taxonomy and SEO, every step, turn, and pose matters. A smart taxonomy whispers sweetly to search engines, enticing them with clear, logical pathways through your content. It’s like setting up signposts that say, “Hey Google, this way to the best science fiction content on the web!” This dance isn’t just about leading search engines through your site; it’s about doing it with style and finesse.

Here’s where the magic happens: as users linger on your well-organized site, enchanted by how easy it is to find what they need, their engagement sends positive signals to search engines. It’s the digital equivalent of guests at a party raving about the host. High page views, low bounce rates, and a web of internal links – these are the moves that make your website shine on the search engine stage. And let’s not forget the SEO cha-cha-cha of keywords seamlessly integrated into your categories and tags, adding that extra flair to your performance.

The Art of Digital Storytelling: Taxonomy as Your Narrative Spine

Every website tells a story, and taxonomy is its narrative spine. Imagine your website as a gripping novel, where each category is a chapter, each subcategory a plot twist, and each tag a character trait. A well-crafted taxonomy weaves these elements into a compelling tale that captivates your audience. It’s the difference between a forgettable short story and a best-selling novel that keeps readers turning pages late into the night.

In this narrative, each click is a step forward in the story. Your visitors are the protagonists, embarking on a quest filled with discovery, learning, and engagement. The plot thickens as they dive deeper into your content, with each well-placed category leading them to the next exciting chapter. And just like any good story, a well-structured taxonomy leaves your audience satisfied yet yearning for more, bookmarking your site for their next visit.

Crafting Your Taxonomy: The Art and Science of Digital Organization

Creating a taxonomy that resonates with both users and search engines is both an art and a science. It starts with understanding your audience, their interests, and their search habits. Are they sci-fi enthusiasts, eager to teleport between articles on time travel and quantum physics? Or are they digital wanderers, looking for the latest in technology and innovation? Knowing your audience is like having a compass; it guides your taxonomy in the right direction.

Next comes the science: structuring your categories, subcategories, and tags in a way that’s logical, intuitive, and SEO-friendly. It’s a meticulous process, akin to a chef carefully balancing flavors in

a gourmet dish. Each category must be distinct yet interconnected, each tag relevant and precise. And remember, flexibility is key. Just like a growing tree, your taxonomy should be able to branch out and evolve with your content and audience.

In Conclusion: The Symphony of a Well-Orchestrated Taxonomy

A well-orchestrated website taxonomy is a symphony where each element plays its part in perfect harmony. It’s the secret ingredient that transforms a good website into a great one, a place where users come not just to visit, but to explore, engage, and return. In the digital jungle, a strong taxonomy is your beacon of light, guiding both users and search engines to the treasures hidden within your content.

So, embark on this journey of creating a captivating website taxonomy. Let it be the map that leads to discovery, the story that enthralls, and the dance that enchants. In the world of website design and content strategy, a masterful taxonomy is not just a tool; it’s an art form that elevates your site to new heights. Embrace it, and watch as your digital world flourishes in ways you never imagined.


Wolfbane
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Author-Website

Unlocking the Power of Your Author Website: Why It’s Essential for KDP Author

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As a self-published author, you may be wondering whether having a website is necessary. After all, with so many social media platforms and book retailers available, is it really worth the effort to create and maintain a website?

The short answer is yes. A website can be an incredibly valuable tool for KDP authors, and can make a significant impact on your book sales and overall author brand.

Firstly, a website provides a centralized hub for your author brand. It’s a place where readers can learn more about you and your books, and where you can showcase your writing style and personal voice. A website can also help you establish credibility as an author, especially if you include testimonials and reviews from satisfied readers.

In addition to showcasing your brand and credibility, a website can also help you reach new readers. By optimizing your website for search engines, you can increase your visibility in search results and attract new readers who may not have found you otherwise. You can also use your website to build your email list and engage with your readers through newsletters and other content.

Furthermore, having a website gives you more control over your book sales and marketing. While social media platforms and book retailers are great for reaching a wide audience, they can also be limiting in terms of customization and branding. With your own website, you have the freedom to design your page, promote your books in your own unique way, and direct readers to your preferred book retailer.

But perhaps most importantly, having a website allows you to own your audience. While social media platforms can be a great way to engage with readers, they can also change their algorithms or terms of service at any time, potentially cutting off your access to your audience. With a website, you own your email list and can continue to engage with your readers even if social media platforms change or become less popular.

Of course, creating and maintaining a website does require some effort and investment. You’ll need to purchase a domain name and web hosting, design your website, and create content to engage your readers. But the long-term benefits of having a website can far outweigh the initial costs.

In conclusion, a website can be an incredibly valuable tool for KDP authors. It provides a centralized hub for your brand, helps you reach new readers, gives you more control over your book sales and marketing, and allows you to own your audience. While creating and maintaining a website requires some effort, the long-term benefits can make a significant impact on your book sales and overall author brand.

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Astroturfing image.

Unmasking Astroturfing: The Deceptive Practice That Distorts Public Opinion

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As we scroll through our social media feeds, we’re bombarded with content from friends, family, and businesses vying for our attention. But what happens when the content we see is not what it seems? What if the reviews, comments, and reactions are not genuine, but instead part of a carefully orchestrated campaign to sway our opinions? Welcome to the world of astroturfing.

Astroturfing is the practice of creating fake grassroots support for a product, service, or idea. It can take many forms, from the use of paid actors to pose as enthusiastic customers, to the creation of fake online communities that generate buzz around a particular topic.

Astroturfing is problematic for several reasons. Firstly, it creates a false impression of support or opposition. Consumers are led to believe that a product or service has more support than it actually does, or that a particular idea is more widely held than it really is. This can lead to the manipulation of public opinion and the distortion of public discourse.

Astroturfing?

Secondly, astroturfing can damage the credibility of the person or organization responsible for the campaign. When consumers discover that they have been deceived, they are likely to feel angry and betrayed. This can lead to a loss of trust, and even legal action in some cases.

So how prevalent is astroturfing? Unfortunately, it’s difficult to say, as many campaigns are carefully hidden from view. However, there have been several high-profile cases in recent years that have shed light on the issue.

In 2011, the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) was caught astroturfing on behalf of the tobacco industry. The group created a fake grassroots campaign to oppose a proposed cigarette tax in Rhode Island. ALEC was exposed when a leaked email revealed that the group had paid for a busload of people to attend a public hearing on the issue.

In 2017, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) was accused of astroturfing during its review of net neutrality regulations. The agency received millions of comments from the public, but many of these were found to be fake. Some were duplicates or bot-generated, while others were attributed to people who had not actually submitted them.

Astroturfing is not limited to the political realm. In 2013, Samsung was caught astroturfing on behalf of its Galaxy smartphones. The company paid people to write positive reviews of its products online, and negative reviews of its competitors. Samsung was fined $340,000 by the Taiwan Fair Trade Commission for the practice.

In 2018, Amazon was accused of astroturfing by a group of US senators. The senators claimed that the company had created fake social media accounts to post positive reviews of its own products, and negative reviews of its competitors. Amazon denied the allegations, but admitted that it had removed some reviews that violated its policies.

Astroturfing is a deceptive and unethical practice that can manipulate public opinion, damage credibility, and distort public discourse. While it’s difficult to know the full extent of the problem, there have been several high-profile cases that illustrate the issue. As consumers, it’s important to be aware of the possibility of astroturfing, and to take steps to verify the authenticity of the content we see online. As the saying goes, “if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.”

The 100 Greatest Science Fiction Movies of All Time
Bing logo on a coloured background.

Time to give Bing a Chance?

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In the world of search engines, two names stand out as the heavyweights: Google and Bing. While Google may be the reigning champion with a staggering 90% of the global market share, Bing is no small player, holding its own with 4-5% of the market. But just how different are these two search giants? And is it worth exploring Bing for your search needs?

Let’s start with the obvious. Google has been the go-to search engine for over two decades now, with its user-friendly interface and highly accurate search results. But, Bing should not be underestimated. Owned by Microsoft, Bing has a market share of 33% in the United States and powers the search results for popular websites such as Yahoo! and Amazon. So, even if you’re not actively using Bing, chances are it’s playing a role in your search journey.

One of the biggest differences between Google and Bing is their approach to search results. While Google’s algorithm prioritizes relevance, Bing places a greater emphasis on visual appeal, with images and videos appearing higher in search results. Bing’s search results also include relevant news articles and social media posts, providing users with a more comprehensive view of a topic.

Another noteworthy feature of Bing is its rewards program. By using Bing for your search needs, you can earn credits that can be redeemed for gift cards, discounts, and more. It’s a small perk, but it just might be the incentive you need to give Bing a chance.

So, is Bing worth a shot? The answer is, it depends. If you’re a die-hard Google fan, chances are you won’t be swayed by Bing’s visual appeal and rewards program. But, if you’re open to trying something new, Bing just might impress you with its comprehensive search results and added benefits. And who knows, you might even come away with a gift card or two in the process!

If you’re looking to give Bing a try it’s easy to submit your website to Bing.

Here’s how:

https://www.bing.com/webmasters/about

Time to Give Bing a Chance?
  1. Verify your website ownership. Bing offers several methods for website verification, including adding a meta tag to your website’s HTML or uploading a file to your website’s server.
  2. Submit your sitemap to Bing. A sitemap is a file that lists all the pages on your website and helps search engines understand your website’s structure. You can submit your sitemap to Bing via the Bing Webmaster Tools.
  3. Monitor your website’s performance. Bing Webmaster Tools provides valuable insights into your website’s performance on Bing, including search traffic and keyword rankings. Use this information to improve your website’s visibility on Bing.
  4. Optimize your website for search engines. This includes using relevant keywords, having a clean and user-friendly website design, and providing valuable and unique content.

In conclusion, while Google may be the dominant search engine, don’t discount the value of exploring Bing. With its visual appeal and rewards program, it just might surprise you. And submitting your website to Bing is a simple process that can help you tap into a new audience. So, why not give it a try?

Rounded corners

Rounded Corners: The Design Trend That Just Won’t Quit

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Rounded corners are everywhere. From mobile phone screens to website buttons, it seems like the once-trendy design element has become a staple in modern design. But why are rounded corners so popular, and why are they so important in the world of web design?

First, let’s take a step back and understand the basic principles of design. In design, the shapes and lines we use play a crucial role in creating a visual hierarchy and drawing the user’s eye to specific elements on the page. Sharp, angular corners can create a sense of tension, while rounded corners have a more relaxed, approachable feel. This is why rounded corners have become a go-to choice for designers looking to create a user-friendly, approachable interface.

One example of this is the ubiquitous “rounded rectangle” shape used in mobile app design. The rounded corners on app icons and buttons not only make the interface look more polished, but they also make the elements easier to tap with a finger. The same principle applies to website buttons: rounded corners on buttons make them look less intimidating and more inviting for users to click.

But it’s not just about aesthetics – rounded corners also play an important role in creating a seamless user experience. In web design, it’s all about creating a consistent visual language across different elements on the page. By using rounded corners throughout a design, designers can create a cohesive look and feel that guides the user’s eye and makes the website feel like a unified whole.

Let’s not forget about ChatGPT, the large language model trained by OpenAI. ChatGPT can help with WordPress and answer questions about a variety of topics, including web design. By using natural language processing, ChatGPT can understand and respond to user requests, making it an incredibly useful tool for anyone looking for help with their website.

Rounded Corners

I was interested in adding a “rounded corner” look to andrewggibson.com, because it’s something I see all the time. Twitter automatically adds rounded corners to all image posts, all the images in my Google news feed have rounded edges. As I know a bit about web development, I was sure that this was something I could achieve using custom CSS in WordPress. After a few failed attempts, I looked for a plugin to do this automatically but found nothing. Googling an answer didn’t turn up much information either, so I turned to Chat GPT. Be begin with I gave it a simple prompt of “Act Like an Expert WordPress developer.” in the current iteration, Chat GPT normally writes several paragraphs of information outlining it’s expert credentials.

ChatGTP writing custom CSS for WordPress

To cut a long story short, Chat GTP was able to provide all of the custom CSS I needed to apply a rounded look to all of the images on my site.

img {
  border-radius: 10px;
}

In conclusion, rounded corners are an integral part of modern web design. From creating a user-friendly interface to establishing a consistent visual language, rounded corners play a crucial role in creating a seamless user experience. Whether you’re a designer or a website owner, it’s worth taking a closer look at the power of rounded corners in your own designs.


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