ASUSPRO is known for producing reliable laptops, but did you business-grade desktop computers are part of its portfolio, too?

The D340MC is an example of this, and it delivers on several fronts. It may seem like a standard boxy PC at first, but most of the features are on the inside.

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves; this is how it looks:

It definitely has a strong presence on any desk

Check out that port selection and DVD drive

The keyboard and mouse are part of the package

There’s lots of ventilation for cooling

Here’s a closer look at its ports

It’s easy to upgrade as needed

This is certainly a no-frills, get-the-job-done type of PC. Fortunately, it comes with good specs to show off: an Intel Core i7-8700 processor, up to 32GB of memory, 1TB of HDD storage, and a simple GeForce GT 720 graphics card to get you going.

But should really interest you are the reliability and endurance. The company claims the unit goes through rigorous quality tests in diverse environments, uses solid capacitors to lengthen lifespan, and produces little noise thanks to the thermal design.

The ASUSPRO D340MC starts at around US$ 600, but with its upgradability, it’s easy to give it more power when needed.

You’re probably familiar with Samsung teasing Apple and its iPhones through humorous commercials. But did you know Microsoft does the same against iPads?

Like Sammy, Microsoft loves to promote its products while humiliating those of close competitors. The latest attempt comes with this short holiday ad for the Surface Go.

Check it out:

The very first line — “Grandma, don’t run out and buy an iPad” — is already a clear dig at Apple. The little girl’s lyrics continue with, “It was fine when I was six, but now I’m 10. My dreams are big so I need a real computer to do all the amazing things I know I can.”

Yes, a real computer. If you’ve been following Apple’s promotions for the recently launched iPad Pro, you’d know that they tout it as a laptop replacement in a sense. Consumers and techies have since been debating whether the claims are true or not.

Well, Microsoft doesn’t think so, and instead believes that you need a Surface Go to cater to all computing needs. It runs desktop-class Windows 10 and is quite flexible productivity-wise when used together with the stylus and keyboard.

It seems like Microsoft’s goal here is to take away some of Apple’s strong younger market for iPads. Kids traditionally choose an iPad because of its portability, ease of use, and strong library of apps.

It always feels good to save up for and earn a new computer or console for yourself. Until, you discover that the console or PC you bought is loaded with all sorts of problems — particularly, viruses.

Now, imagine that but instead of just one PC, an entire company finds it in 83 percent of its new computers in several Asian countries. Microsoft’s Asia PC Test Purchase Sweep, the company’s initiative towards educating consumers and enterprises, provides information against piracy and its risks. They found that these new PCs were sold in retailers that offered computers at a much lower price than intended to.

The report suggests that these retailers turn off Windows security features for them to install pirated software on these PCs. It also found that they contained software infected with viruses and trojans. Microsoft generally explains the risks that come from turning off these features, such as leaving your PC vulnerable to cyber threats and malware.

“Cyber criminals are constantly evolving their techniques to evade security measures, and embedding their malware is one of their tactics,” said Mary Jo Schrade, Assistant General Counsel from Microsoft Asia.

These findings are concerning for people who purchase new PCs through special deals, especially those that come with free software. Schrade suggests that consumers who want to purchase PCs should look for retailers that provide genuine software when bundled with the PC.

To avoid any more complications, it is also recommended to keep their software updated and follow safe internet practices. Such practices include avoiding potentially dangerous websites, legally downloading software or purchasing licenses to use them, and use recognized cloud-based file sharing systems.