CNET editors and users share the top tech 'how to' tips and tricks with advice for getting the most out of all your gadgets.https://gcp-assets-origin-fly.cnet.com/bundles/cnetcss/images/core/logo/cnet_og.pnghttps://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/why-use-proxy-server-benefits-drawbacks-common-use-cases/f4cd3b40-fef9-4a70-95cc-17c7157fffdbSat, 18 Apr 2026 12:00:00 +0000Proxies are great for web scraping and improving network performance. But using one comes with risks and limitations.Joe Supanhttps://www.cnet.com/home/security/my-top-tricks-to-protect-your-home-from-trespassers-and-burglars/8b04cce1-c97b-416d-8f54-fd2e5e2c8211Fri, 17 Apr 2026 11:00:00 +0000Stop home problems before they start with my tested deterrents -- and advice on how to use them.Tyler Lacomahttps://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/taxes/so-you-missed-the-tax-deadline-what-happens-now/cac2d002-6749-46aa-b975-ebad9851eaa7Thu, 16 Apr 2026 19:55:45 +0000For some US taxpayers, missing the tax deadline won't matter much. Others could face steep penalties and fines.Peter Butlerhttps://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/summer-is-coming-i-let-ai-fill-my-calendar-with-fitness-fun-and-music/4ed02ed8-6abe-4dde-bcae-2eec27124b69Thu, 16 Apr 2026 17:35:48 +0000Take advantage of the warmer weather with a full schedule, without breaking a sweat.Rachel Kanehttps://www.cnet.com/how-to/beef-has-never-been-more-expensive-here-are-the-cheap-cuts-that-butchers-buy/94c9c770-e2a0-4bd7-ac6e-cf1e4743112cThu, 16 Apr 2026 13:52:00 +0000Forget the filet and porterhouse. These cheaper cuts of beef can be just as tasty.Pamela Vachonhttps://www.cnet.com/how-to/plastic-wrap-is-killing-your-cheese-heres-how-professionals-store-it/4cfbfd62-894a-4f6a-a5b9-c46a9d199cfcThu, 16 Apr 2026 13:38:00 +0000Most types of cheese can last for weeks or longer, but only if you wrap them the right way. Here's what a professional monger told me about proper cheese storage.Pamela Vachonhttps://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/this-2-minute-microwave-hack-is-better-than-any-cleaning-spray/89aee5d1-80d8-480c-b3e3-bcd8932f7245Thu, 16 Apr 2026 13:01:12 +0000A simple steam bath using a bowl of water and vinegar can loosen even the most fossilized food splatters.Pamela Vachonhttps://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/vpn-gps-spoofing-why-you-might-want-to/4a6b2ca9-a5ac-4e19-9003-dbb6f29b913aThu, 16 Apr 2026 11:01:13 +0000GPS spoofing with a VPN lets you mask your real location for easier access to geo-restricted content and more control over location-based apps, but there are some cases where you won't want it.Krishi Chowdharyhttps://www.cnet.com/how-to/why-real-chefs-never-use-these-20-popular-kitchen-gadgets/5bafe2c0-d725-4ec4-bf34-684770bb736cThu, 16 Apr 2026 10:31:46 +0000You have a kitchen full of useless junk. These chefs are here to tell you why.David Watskyhttps://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/best-places-to-sell-electronics/83003032-8c86-11e2-b06b-024c619f5c3dWed, 15 Apr 2026 21:05:00 +0000Why let outdated gadgets just sit there when these platforms are here to help you turn them into cash? It’s green for your pocket and the planet.Adam Oramhttps://www.cnet.com/how-to/elevate-your-cooking-with-this-one-simple-ingredient/8a4123b8-9cdb-47fa-accb-c443316593ddWed, 15 Apr 2026 21:00:00 +0000Despite it being a popular beverage, it's also a versatile cooking ingredient.Corin Cesaric-Epplehttps://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/taxes/cant-file-your-income-taxes-by-today-you-need-to-file-a-free-extension-now/abb36c4a-6a2c-4c77-95e3-8c6eea740763Wed, 15 Apr 2026 17:07:00 +0000The best tax software will let you file a federal income tax extension to give yourself six more months to finish your taxes.Katie Teaguehttps://www.cnet.com/home/security/dont-fall-for-this-sneaky-qr-code-scam-if-you-get-a-surprise-package/34613279-bb83-49f9-bfb2-02c9c31b1904Wed, 15 Apr 2026 12:00:00 +0000A recent kind of package scam encourages you to download your own malware via QR code. Here's what to watch out for.Tyler Lacomahttps://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/malware-is-scary-heres-cnets-guide-to-cleaning-an-infected-laptop/05b96b72-c14e-4e82-bb69-4a22a9159345Wed, 15 Apr 2026 12:00:00 +0000Every data-stealing virus requires a unique approach, but these are the essential first steps for reclaiming an infected device.Dashia Mildenhttps://www.cnet.com/home/smart-home/pet-tech-answers-for-diet-anxiety-and-other-furry-friend-problems/d45a9a77-0d4d-48bf-8dc4-774a5918b212Wed, 15 Apr 2026 11:00:00 +0000The latest technology can help fix these frequent pet issues, from dealing with anxiety to enforcing diets -- and much more.Tyler Lacomahttps://www.cnet.com/home/security/8-security-camera-blind-spots-every-burglar-is-counting-on-you-to-have/ead1b743-51e1-4f16-bda6-3fc784de0ec2Wed, 15 Apr 2026 10:01:08 +0000Take care when you place your security cameras. They may not be offering any protection at all.Tyler Lacomahttps://www.cnet.com/home/smart-home/there-are-too-many-smart-home-automations-these-3-types-are-actually-useful/bb24d458-29b3-4a50-b722-d51ed009dac1Wed, 15 Apr 2026 09:00:45 +0000Don't automate everything in your home just because you can. Here are the three types I find most rewarding.John Carlsenhttps://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/how-i-use-ai-to-keep-up-with-pop-culture/01ee295e-882d-4567-b675-5307fc429d24Tue, 14 Apr 2026 23:51:34 +0000If you can feel your bones crumbling to dust every time you hear new slang, this will help you stay young in spirit and in touch with the rapidly evolving world.Rachel Kanehttps://www.cnet.com/how-to/save-energy-and-money-this-summer-with-these-eco-friendly-smart-home-devices/fdae38f7-27a9-4aa1-a467-4bd36225e331Tue, 14 Apr 2026 16:00:00 +0000These new devices aren't just Earth-friendly. They can also save you money on energy bills while giving you more control than ever.Tyler Lacomahttps://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/love-island-beyond-the-villa-heres-how-to-watch-season-2/b113d8c4-91fe-454f-a063-3de9852a1ca3Tue, 14 Apr 2026 12:00:51 +0000It's time to welcome back Amaya, Bryan, Iris, Pepe and the gang to our screens.Kevin Lynchhttps://www.cnet.com/how-to/open-white-wine-goes-in-the-fridge-but-what-about-red-i-asked-a-sommolier/c1d60b70-693b-4464-8f1d-c3d35a512abeTue, 14 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000Here's everything you need to know about storing open red, white and sparkling wine.Joey Skladanyhttps://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/repair-or-replace-that-broken-small-appliance-heres-what-professionals-say/4281af9c-cbea-4439-ab2c-a1b8f49eab3aMon, 13 Apr 2026 15:01:00 +0000Busted toaster or broken coffee maker? Don't toss it just yet.Pamela Vachonhttps://www.cnet.com/how-to/throw-away-that-bag-the-roaster-approved-secret-for-perfect-coffee/98b3e2ac-89b5-4256-a3d1-4fca36ef4d5cMon, 13 Apr 2026 12:01:04 +0000You're storing your coffee beans incorrectly. Try these tips to help make your coffee hoard last longer.Pamela Vachonhttps://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/do-not-disturb-vs-silent-mode-on-iphone/221d8072-1ec0-44f5-95f2-0280736df1e2Mon, 13 Apr 2026 11:00:00 +0000Here's how -- and when -- to turn on each setting.Abrar Al-Heetihttps://www.cnet.com/home/security/diy-home-security-vs-professionally-installed-systems-costs-compared/7bd89556-3933-4db6-a512-d3a8d4394958Mon, 13 Apr 2026 11:00:00 +0000Home security systems are divided between DIY and kits that required a professional to visit your home. Here's what that means for your wallet.Tyler Lacoma