--- title: "Alemasone" description: "Practical guides on technology, software and everyday devices: the steps in the right order, with no filler." url: "https://www.alemasone.com/en/" language: "en" --- # Alemasone > Practical guides on technology, software and everyday devices: the steps in the right order, with no filler. ## Gaming - [Best Minecraft Clients: Which One Should You Really Choose?](https://www.alemasone.com/en/best-minecraft-clients-comparison/index.md): Comparing Lunar, Badlion, Prism, and optimization mods to see where your FPS actually comes from and what works best for low-end PCs. - [Dolphin Emulator Guide: Emulate GameCube and Wii](https://www.alemasone.com/en/dolphin-emulator-gamecube-wii-guide/index.md): Learn how to install Dolphin on Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android, configure Wiimote controls without sensors, and find the best settings for gaming. - [Clash of Clans Color Codes: How to Write in Color](https://www.alemasone.com/en/clash-of-clans-color-codes-guide/index.md): Discover the list of codes to color your clan chat messages, where they work, and why using them in clan names can make searching difficult. - [Cloud Gaming Comparison: Which Platform is Best for You?](https://www.alemasone.com/en/cloud-gaming-platform-comparison-guide/index.md): GeForce NOW, Xbox Cloud Gaming, Luna, and Boosteroid compared. Discover which includes a catalog, which requires owned games, and 2026 updates. - [Custom Skins in League of Legends: Riot's Stance and Risks](https://www.alemasone.com/en/league-of-legends-custom-skins-risks/index.md): With the arrival of Vanguard, custom skins have changed. Learn about Riot's official stance on third-party programs and the real risks involved. - [Best Minecraft Shaders and How to Install Them](https://www.alemasone.com/en/best-minecraft-shaders-installation-guide/index.md): Discover Complementary, BSL, and lightweight shaders for integrated graphics using Iris and Sodium for smoother gameplay than OptiFine. - [playit.gg: Host Game Servers Without Port Forwarding](https://www.alemasone.com/en/host-game-servers-without-port-forwarding/index.md): Learn how playit.gg tunnels work to let friends join your server, how to keep your address static, and when you might need a different solution. - [Steam Key Sites: Which Are Safe and Which to Avoid](https://www.alemasone.com/en/safe-steam-key-sites-guide/index.md): Learn the difference between authorized retailers and the gray market, the risks of cheap keys, and how to vet sellers before you buy. - [How to Create a Minecraft Server with Friends Using Tailscale](https://www.alemasone.com/en/minecraft-server-with-friends-tailscale/index.md): Forget Hamachi! Use Tailscale to create a private network for your Minecraft server, allowing friends to join without port forwarding. - [Google Play Games on PC: How to Install and Requirements](https://www.alemasone.com/en/google-play-games-pc-install-guide/index.md): Play your favorite Android games on Windows with the official Google app. Learn about system requirements, BIOS virtualization, and how it compares to emulators. - [How to Install Minecraft Mods Without Crashing Your Game](https://www.alemasone.com/en/install-minecraft-mods-without-crashing/index.md): Forge, NeoForge, and Fabric explained: how to choose a mod loader and match Java versions to avoid startup errors. - [How to Create a Free Modded Minecraft Server with Aternos](https://www.alemasone.com/en/create-free-modded-minecraft-server-aternos/index.md): Learn how to set up a free Minecraft server using Aternos, including mods, maps, managing weekend queues, and the best alternatives. - [How to Earn Coins in Hay Day Without Spending Diamonds](https://www.alemasone.com/en/earn-coins-hay-day-without-diamonds/index.md): Discover the best strategies to stack up coins in Hay Day, from using the roadside shop and newspaper to smart production tips. - [Nintendo Switch Emulators: The State of Play in 2026](https://www.alemasone.com/en/nintendo-switch-emulators-status-2026/index.md): With Yuzu and Ryujinx gone, what's left for Switch emulation? Discover the current landscape, legal status, and available alternatives. - [How to Play Among Us: Rules, Roles, and Pro Tips](https://www.alemasone.com/en/how-to-play-among-us-guide/index.md): A practical guide on how to play Among Us: learn about roles, tasks, maps, and the best tips to spot impostors quickly. ## Hardware and PC - [HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C or VGA: Which Cable Should You Use?](https://www.alemasone.com/en/choose-the-right-monitor-cable/index.md): Resolution, refresh rates, and connector versions: learn how to choose the right monitor connection and why DisplayPort is best for gaming. - [SSD and Hard Drive Benchmarks: Best Free Tools](https://www.alemasone.com/en/best-free-ssd-hard-drive-benchmark-tools/index.md): Discover the best tools to measure disk speed, read random 4K values, and check the health or real capacity of your USB drive. - [IPS, VA, TN vs OLED: Which Monitor Panel is Best?](https://www.alemasone.com/en/ips-va-tn-oled-monitor-comparison/index.md): Discover how these four technologies compare in terms of blacks, colors, speed, and viewing angles to find the perfect monitor for gaming or video. - [LCD vs OLED: Real Differences and Which One to Choose](https://www.alemasone.com/en/lcd-vs-oled-differences-which-to-choose/index.md): Contrast, brightness, lifespan, and burn-in risk: learn how to choose between an OLED or LCD panel based on your actual usage. - [How to Build a PC: Components, Assembly and First Boot](https://www.alemasone.com/en/how-to-build-a-pc-guide/index.md): A complete guide to building your own computer: choosing compatible parts, the correct assembly order, applying thermal paste, and first boot steps. - [Curved vs. Flat Monitor: Which One Should You Really Choose?](https://www.alemasone.com/en/curved-vs-flat-monitor-comparison/index.md): From curvature radius to viewing distance: discover when a curved monitor is worth it and why flat screens remain better for design and architecture. ## Internet and Web - [How to Monetize a Website: Strategies That Actually Work](https://www.alemasone.com/en/how-to-monetize-a-website/index.md): From ads and affiliate marketing to digital products, discover which monetization strategies best suit your website traffic. - [Google Alternatives: Search Engines You Should Try](https://www.alemasone.com/en/best-google-search-engine-alternatives/index.md): Discover which search engines have their own index versus those that resell results, and find out how they actually handle your privacy. - [The Best Telegram Bots to Use Every Single Day](https://www.alemasone.com/en/best-telegram-bots-for-daily-use/index.md): Discover official and third-party bots for downloading, translating, and managing groups, plus essential tips on privacy and permissions. - [Best Discord Alternatives for Voice Chat and Communities](https://www.alemasone.com/en/best-discord-alternatives-voice-chat-communities/index.md): Comparing TeamSpeak, Mumble, Matrix, and Stoat to Discord: what changes, what you lose when migrating, and why Guilded is no longer an option. - [Best Discord Bots and How to Set Them Up Properly](https://www.alemasone.com/en/best-discord-bots-setup-guide/index.md): From moderation and auto-roles to music and welcome messages: discover which bots to install on your Discord server and how to configure them safely. - [How to Create a TeamSpeak Server: Guide to TS3 and TS6](https://www.alemasone.com/en/how-to-create-teamspeak-server-guide/index.md): Learn how to install a TeamSpeak server on your PC or VPS, get your admin token, and discover what's new in the version 6 beta. - [Migrate WordPress to a New Domain Without Losing SEO Rankings](https://www.alemasone.com/en/migrate-wordpress-new-domain-seo/index.md): Learn how to change your WordPress domain: from backups and URL replacement to 301 redirects in .htaccess and essential post-migration checks. - [How to Install Let's Encrypt SSL on Windows IIS](https://www.alemasone.com/en/install-lets-encrypt-ssl-windows-iis/index.md): Learn how to get and install a free HTTPS certificate on IIS using win-acme, set up auto-renewal, and fix common errors. - [Best Web Browsers: Privacy, Speed, and Resource Usage](https://www.alemasone.com/en/best-web-browsers-privacy-speed-comparison/index.md): Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, Vivaldi, and Safari compared: how Manifest V3 affects ad blockers and which browser you should choose today. ## Multimedia and Creation - [How to Create a Custom Funko Pop from Your Photo](https://www.alemasone.com/en/create-custom-funko-pop-from-photo/index.md): Learn how to use AI to generate custom collectible figures: prompt structures, chibi proportions, and the best tools for your design. - [How to Turn Your Photo into an AI Action Figure](https://www.alemasone.com/en/turn-photo-into-ai-action-figure/index.md): Learn how to write the perfect prompt for action figures in packaging, understand AI limitations, and use your results as concept art. - [AI Anime Style Photos: What You Can Actually Do](https://www.alemasone.com/en/ai-anime-style-photos-guide/index.md): Beyond the Ghibli trend, AI generators have new limits. Learn how to write prompts and what the current copyright laws say. - [How to Install FFmpeg on Windows and Use the Command Line](https://www.alemasone.com/en/install-ffmpeg-windows-command-line/index.md): Learn how to install FFmpeg via winget or manually, add it to your PATH, and use essential commands to convert video and extract audio. - [Best Video Editing Software for Every Skill Level](https://www.alemasone.com/en/best-video-editing-software-every-level/index.md): From CapCut to DaVinci Resolve, Premiere Pro, and Final Cut: find the best video editing software based on your experience, computer, and budget. - [How to Use Your Smartphone as a Webcam for Your PC](https://www.alemasone.com/en/use-smartphone-as-webcam/index.md): Learn how to use Windows 11 features, Mac Continuity Camera, and apps like Camo or DroidCam via Wi-Fi or cable to upgrade your video calls. - [Voicemeeter Banana Guide: How to Set Up Your Audio](https://www.alemasone.com/en/voicemeeter-banana-audio-setup-guide/index.md): Learn how to install and configure Voicemeeter Banana on Windows. Master virtual cables to separate game audio from Discord and Spotify easily. - [How to Record Your Screen with OBS Studio: Complete Guide](https://www.alemasone.com/en/how-to-record-screen-obs-studio/index.md): Learn how to record your PC screen using OBS Studio. A full guide on setup, audio/video settings, webcam integration, and saving in MP4 for Windows, Mac, or Linux. ## Operating Systems and Customization - [How to Uninstall OneDrive from Windows 11 Without Losing Files](https://www.alemasone.com/en/uninstall-onedrive-windows-11-no-data-loss/index.md): Learn the correct steps: move files locally, stop folder backups, unlink your account, and then safely remove the application. - [How to Automate Low Power Mode on iPad](https://www.alemasone.com/en/automate-low-power-mode-ipad/index.md): Learn how to enable Low Power Mode on your iPad automatically when the battery reaches a certain percentage using Shortcuts. - [How to Uninstall NVIDIA and AMD Drivers Using DDU](https://www.alemasone.com/en/uninstall-nvidia-amd-drivers-ddu/index.md): Learn the correct way to use Display Driver Uninstaller: using Safe Mode, blocking automatic updates, and when a clean wipe is necessary. - [How to Share a Folder on a Network in Windows: A Practical Guide](https://www.alemasone.com/en/share-folder-windows-network-guide/index.md): Learn how to make folders accessible across home or office computers, set read/write permissions, and troubleshoot common sharing errors. - [NTFS, exFAT or APFS: Which File System Should You Choose?](https://www.alemasone.com/en/ntfs-exfat-apfs-file-system-guide/index.md): Learn how to format hard drives and USB sticks for your needs: the best choice for Windows, Mac, or cross-platform compatibility. - [Slow Mac Startup: How to Speed Up Your System](https://www.alemasone.com/en/speed-up-slow-mac-startup/index.md): Discover how login items, extensions, and background agents slow down your Mac and learn how to disable them to boost performance. - [How to Change Your CPU Name on Windows 11 via Registry](https://www.alemasone.com/en/change-cpu-name-windows-11-registry/index.md): Learn how to change the processor name in system properties. Discover why this is a visual change and why it might revert after a restart. - [Red Star OS: Inside North Korea's Operating System](https://www.alemasone.com/en/red-star-os-north-korea-operating-system/index.md): Discover how North Korea's OS works, from its macOS-inspired look to hidden file watermarking and digital surveillance mechanisms. - [How to Install Wine on Ubuntu to Run Windows Apps](https://www.alemasone.com/en/install-wine-ubuntu-windows-apps/index.md): Learn how to install Wine from the official repository, manage prefixes with Winetricks, and explore easy alternatives for running Windows software. - [Remote Desktop from Windows to Ubuntu: Updated Guide](https://www.alemasone.com/en/remote-desktop-windows-to-ubuntu-guide/index.md): Ubuntu now features a native RDP server. Learn how to enable it, when to use xRDP, and how to fix the black screen issue on your first connection. - [How to Enable and Configure Windows Sandbox on Windows 11](https://www.alemasone.com/en/how-to-enable-configure-windows-sandbox/index.md): Learn how to enable Windows Sandbox to test suspicious programs safely and configure it using .wsb files for shared folders, network settings, and RAM. - [How to Enable Automatic Dark Mode on Windows 11](https://www.alemasone.com/en/automatic-dark-mode-windows-11/index.md): Windows 11 doesn't switch themes automatically by default. Learn how to use PowerToys Light Switch or Auto Dark Mode to sync with sunrise and sunset. - [How to Remove Creative Cloud from Windows 11 File Explorer](https://www.alemasone.com/en/remove-creative-cloud-windows-11-file-explorer/index.md): Learn how to remove the Creative Cloud Files folder from your File Explorer sidebar using a registry tweak, including backups and recovery steps. - [12 Hidden macOS Features to Boost Your Mac Productivity](https://www.alemasone.com/en/hidden-macos-features-productivity-tips/index.md): Discover how Hot Corners, Spotlight actions, and Automator can save you time with these essential macOS tips. ## Programming and Development - [Kubernetes vs Docker: Differences and How They Work Together](https://www.alemasone.com/en/kubernetes-vs-docker-differences-how-they-work/index.md): They aren't alternatives: one builds and runs containers, while the other orchestrates them across machines. Learn what each does and when you need both. - [Bootstrap vs Material Design: Which Framework to Choose?](https://www.alemasone.com/en/bootstrap-vs-material-design-framework/index.md): Bundle size, customization ease, and real-world use cases: how to choose between Bootstrap, Material UI, and Tailwind for your next web project. - [Must-Have VS Code Extensions You Should Install Now](https://www.alemasone.com/en/best-vs-code-extensions-to-install/index.md): Quality over quantity: discover the best formatters, linters, and Git tools for web development without slowing down your editor. - [How to Install C and C++ Compilers on Windows, Linux & macOS](https://www.alemasone.com/en/install-c-cpp-compilers-windows-linux-macos/index.md): Learn how to install GCC using MSYS2 on Windows, build-essential on Linux, and Xcode tools on macOS, including VS Code setup and compilation commands. - [Best Free WYSIWYG HTML Editors for the Web](https://www.alemasone.com/en/best-free-wysiwyg-html-editors/index.md): Compare CKEditor, TinyMCE, Quill, and more: explore features, licenses, and learn how to choose the right rich text editor for your site or app. - [How to Install and Configure Apache on Ubuntu and Windows](https://www.alemasone.com/en/install-configure-apache-ubuntu-windows/index.md): Learn how to install the Apache web server on Ubuntu and Windows, including virtual hosts, mod_rewrite, and firewall configuration. - [Best XAMPP Alternatives for Local Development](https://www.alemasone.com/en/best-xampp-alternatives-local-development/index.md): Compare Laragon, Herd, Local, DDEV, and Docker against XAMPP to find the best local development environment for Windows, macOS, or Linux. - [How to Install Python on Windows, macOS, and Linux: A Guide](https://www.alemasone.com/en/how-to-install-python-windows-macos-linux/index.md): Learn how to install Python 3 on Windows, macOS, and Linux. Follow our guide for official downloads, PATH setup, and terminal commands. ## Security and Privacy - [NordVPN Review: Speed, Privacy, and Streaming Performance](https://www.alemasone.com/en/nordvpn-speed-privacy-streaming-review/index.md): Explore NordVPN's speed, the NordLynx protocol, no-log policy audits, and pricing. See where it excels and what limitations to consider. - [Are Chrome VPN Extensions Actually Secure?](https://www.alemasone.com/en/chrome-vpn-extensions-security-guide/index.md): Free VPN extensions don't encrypt all your traffic and some sell your data. Learn how to evaluate them and when you need a full VPN instead. - [Self-Hosted VPN: Best Solutions for Your Private Network](https://www.alemasone.com/en/best-self-hosted-vpn-solutions/index.md): Compare WireGuard, OpenVPN, and Tailscale to build your own VPN on a Raspberry Pi or server. Explore performance, setup difficulty, and limitations. - [How to Securely Install and Configure SSH on Ubuntu](https://www.alemasone.com/en/securely-install-configure-ssh-ubuntu/index.md): Learn how to install OpenSSH, generate Ed25519 keys, disable root login, and protect your Ubuntu server from brute-force attacks. - [Temporary Emails vs Aliases: How to Truly Avoid Spam](https://www.alemasone.com/en/temporary-emails-vs-aliases-avoid-spam/index.md): Disposable emails vs. personal aliases: when to use Temp Mail or Guerrilla Mail and when to choose Proton, Apple, or addy.io aliases. - [Best Password Managers: A Complete Guide to Choosing One](https://www.alemasone.com/en/best-password-managers-comparison-guide/index.md): Compare Bitwarden, Proton Pass, and 1Password. Learn how to pick a secure password manager and safely share credentials with your family. ## Software and Tools - [Virtualization on Apple Silicon: Windows, Linux and macOS](https://www.alemasone.com/en/virtualization-apple-silicon-windows-linux-macos/index.md): Compare Parallels, VMware Fusion, and UTM to run other operating systems on Apple chips, including the real limits of ARM architecture. - [Convert Files on Windows for Free with File Converter](https://www.alemasone.com/en/convert-files-windows-free-file-converter/index.md): A free tool that adds file conversion to your right-click menu. Learn about supported formats, custom profiles, and how to use it on Windows 11. - [Desktop Goose: The Naughty Goose Taking Over Your Desktop](https://www.alemasone.com/en/desktop-goose-naughty-desktop-goose/index.md): Learn what Desktop Goose is, how to install and close it, how to edit the config file, and how to add your own custom memes and notes. - [Run AI Models Locally with LM Studio](https://www.alemasone.com/en/run-ai-models-locally-lm-studio/index.md): Learn how to install LM Studio, choose the right model for your hardware, and use offline AI: requirements, quantization, and getting started. - [Best Free and Paid Microsoft Office Alternatives](https://www.alemasone.com/en/best-microsoft-office-alternatives-free-paid/index.md): Compare LibreOffice, OnlyOffice, Google Docs, and more. See how they handle complex .docx files and when you should stick with Microsoft 365. - [Best Cloud Storage Services: How to Choose the Right One](https://www.alemasone.com/en/best-cloud-storage-services-comparison/index.md): Comparing free storage and end-to-end encryption: find the best cloud service for your documents, photos, and sensitive data. - [How to Open Huge Text Files Without Crashing Your PC](https://www.alemasone.com/en/open-huge-text-files-without-crashing/index.md): Struggling with massive log or CSV files? Discover why Notepad++ fails and which tools actually work for reading giant datasets efficiently. - [Free Up Windows Space: How to Find Large Files](https://www.alemasone.com/en/free-up-space-windows-large-files/index.md): Discover how to use TreeSize Free, WizTree, and Windows tools to find what's taking up space and know exactly what is safe to delete. - [Best Free and Professional Remote Desktop Software](https://www.alemasone.com/en/best-remote-desktop-software-comparison/index.md): Comparing AnyDesk, TeamViewer, Parsec, and RustDesk: real latency, commercial limits, and which to choose for remote work, gaming, or support. - [Best iPad Note-Taking Apps for Apple Pencil](https://www.alemasone.com/en/best-ipad-note-taking-apps-apple-pencil/index.md): Compare GoodNotes, Notability, Apple Notes, and more to find the best app for handwriting, converting text, and organizing your notes. - [Best AI Tools to Use: A Complete Comparison](https://www.alemasone.com/en/best-ai-tools-comparison-guide/index.md): ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Copilot, and Perplexity compared: their strengths, subscription costs, and whether the free versions are enough for you. - [Notion vs Trello: Which One Should You Choose?](https://www.alemasone.com/en/notion-vs-trello-comparison/index.md): Notion excels at structured documentation, while Trello is king of Kanban. Compare prices, features, and use cases to find your perfect match. - [Best Trello Alternatives to Organize Your Projects](https://www.alemasone.com/en/best-trello-alternatives-project-management/index.md): Compare Notion, Asana, ClickUp, Planner, and open source solutions. Find the best Trello alternative for your workflow and free plan needs. - [Microsoft PowerToys for Windows 11](https://www.alemasone.com/en/microsoft-powertoys-windows-11/index.md): Discover all Microsoft PowerToys utilities: installation, Command Palette, FancyZones, and the latest features in version 0.101. - [Steam Achievement Manager (SAM): What It Is and How It Works](https://www.alemasone.com/en/steam-achievement-manager-guide/index.md): Discover how Steam Achievement Manager (SAM) works to unlock or reset achievements, including installation steps and potential account risks. - [Best Android Emulators for PC: BlueStacks vs MEmu vs NoxPlayer](https://www.alemasone.com/en/best-android-emulators-for-pc/index.md): Compare BlueStacks, MEmu Play, and NoxPlayer to find the best Android emulator for your PC. Check requirements, key differences, and which one is right for you. - [Best Virtualization Software: A Complete Comparison Guide](https://www.alemasone.com/en/best-virtualization-software-comparison-guide/index.md): Compare the best virtualization software for Windows, Mac, and Linux, including Hyper-V, VMware, VirtualBox, Parallels, KVM, and QEMU. ## Optional - [About me](https://www.alemasone.com/en/about-me/index.md): Alessandro Masone: who I am, what I write about on Alemasone and how the site is funded. - [Contact](https://www.alemasone.com/en/contact/index.md): How to write to Alessandro Masone: corrections, copyright, collaborations. - [Donations](https://www.alemasone.com/en/donations/index.md): If Alemasone has been useful to you, you can help keep it online and paywall-free. - [Privacy and cookies](https://www.alemasone.com/en/privacy/index.md): What data www.alemasone.com collects, who processes it and what you can ask for. - [Terms & Disclaimer](https://www.alemasone.com/en/terms/index.md): Terms of use, copyright, disclaimer and advertising information for alemasone.com.