Website Tech

Author: Yoda

  • Hello world!

    Welcome to WordPress. This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start writing!

  • Apple Thunderbolt Display for sale

    The Apple A1407, also known as the Thunderbolt Display, is a high-resolution monitor that was designed primarily for use with Mac computers. However, its compatibility extends beyond just Apple products. Below, I’ll detail the compatibility with various brands and models of computers, as well as any necessary hardware or software.

    Apple Computers

    • MacBook Pro (Mid 2011 and newer): Supports Thunderbolt and Thunderbolt 2 connections. No additional hardware is necessary.
    • MacBook Air (Mid 2011 and newer): Also supports Thunderbolt and Thunderbolt 2. Directly compatible without additional adapters.
    • iMac (Mid 2011 – Late 2015): These models have Thunderbolt ports that can directly connect to the A1407.
    • Mac Mini (Mid 2011 and newer): Equipped with Thunderbolt ports, making them compatible with the A1407.
    • Mac Pro (Late 2013): Features Thunderbolt 2 ports for direct connection.

    For these Apple computers, macOS should automatically recognize the Thunderbolt Display without needing additional software.

    Windows and Linux Computers

    Compatibility with Windows or Linux PCs is less straightforward due to the specific hardware requirements (Thunderbolt 2 port), which are less common on non-Apple devices. However, some workstations and laptops are equipped with Thunderbolt ports.

    • Dell XPS 15 (9550 and newer): Models with a Thunderbolt 3 port can connect to the A1407 using a Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 adapter.
    • Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon (5th Gen and newer): These also feature Thunderbolt 3 ports and require an adapter for connection.
    • HP EliteBook (G3 and newer): Select models come with Thunderbolt 3 ports, making them compatible through the use of an adapter.

    For these connections, ensure your PC’s BIOS settings are configured to enable Thunderbolt support. Additionally, Windows or Linux may require the installation of specific Thunderbolt drivers available from the PC manufacturer’s website.

    Required Adapters and Software

    • Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 Adapter: Necessary for connecting newer devices that have Thunderbolt 3 ports to the Thunderbolt 2 input of the A1407.
    • Drivers: Windows PCs may need Thunderbolt drivers installed, available from the manufacturer’s support site.

    Important Consideration

    While the Apple Thunderbolt Display can technically be connected to a wide range of devices, its functionality is best supported on Macs. Features like the built-in camera, speakers, and USB ports on the display may require specific drivers or may not be supported at all on non-Apple computers.

    Conclusion

    The Apple A1407 Thunderbolt Display offers broad compatibility with both Apple and select Windows or Linux computers. Its use outside of the Apple ecosystem may require additional adapters and driver installations. Before attempting to connect the display to a non-Apple computer, verify the presence of a Thunderbolt port and the availability of any required adapters or software to ensure the best experience.

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  • LC Color Palette and Branding

    You are a Website Accessibility and color wheel expert able to make color palettes that look great together, and have accessible color contrasts, for use on websites.
    My website niche is “Coaches who want to create and sell online courses but struggle with the technical aspects.” and my ideal client is “course creators and online educators who are looking to launch and sell their courses successfully. I guide them through the process of creating engaging content, setting up sales funnels, and implementing effective marketing strategies to attract and convert their ideal students.”

    Start with a new set of colors for my niche and ideal client, to be used to make a website color palette.
    Make primary, secondary, tertiary colors, and a complementary accent color, that all have medium color darkness, and all look great together artistically.
    Give hexadecimal color numbers and artist’s color names, and an image generated by www.singlecolorimage.com
    Label the colors as primary, secondary, tertiary and accent. 
    Format the response as Markdown or any WordPress 6.3 Block Editor block type, including headings, paragraphs, bold/italic, outlines or lists, website links, hero blocks, containers with text and images, etc. ; for pasting into WordPress.

    Assemble these color codes, without leading #, in a URL. Example: https://coolors.co/9ff1f0-007d7a-04d3cd-ffded7-d89c87-ffbfa4-fa95d5-960066-dd269c

    Here’s the URL assembled with your color codes:

    https://coolors.co/f3cc9a-000000-a0b7cd-7593b1-3a5c7d-284568-e8bd82-b68350-8f5e31-b8ccaa-a0b797-67825f-47603d-c49bb0-945276-6b3d63-5b2f52-517fa4-daa464-89a77f

    [20 colors doesn’t work anymore, use one for light and one for dark]

    WebsiteTech light https://coolors.co/a0b7cd-7593b1-f3cc9a-e8bd82-b8ccaa-a0b797-c49bb0-ad7f9e
    WebsiteTech dark https://coolors.co/3a5c7d-284568-b68350-8f5e31-67825f-47603d-78466a-5b2f52

    ChatGPT

    Website Color Palette for Online Course Coaches

    Of course! I’ll design a color palette with the nuances of your target audience in mind. Coaches who want to create and sell online courses are seeking clarity, approachability, and trustworthiness.

    Here’s a new set of colors tailored for your niche:

    1. Primary – Calm Cerulean: A serene blue that signifies trust and clarity. This color captures the essence of a guide – someone who’s been there and understands the path.
      • Hex: #517FA4
    2. Secondary – Approachable Amber: This warm hue signifies warmth, understanding, and the human touch, emphasizing the personal guidance and accessibility.
      • Hex: #DAA464
    3. Tertiary – Sage Serenity: An earthy green shade, evoking growth, knowledge, and organic reach.
      • Hex: #89A77F
    4. Accent – Passionate Plum: A pop of color to draw attention to CTAs and highlight essential features. This color adds an element of passion and emphasizes the deep connection with the educational journey.
      • Hex: #985E82

    Let’s put this into a WordPress 6.3 Block Editor format:

    Website Color Palette

    Welcome to your tailored website color palette, crafted especially for your niche: coaches wanting to sell online courses.

    Primary Color – Calm Cerulean

    Calm Cerulean

    A serene blue signifying trust and clarity. Perfect for your main headers and navigation.

    • Hexadecimal: #517FA4

    Secondary Color – Approachable Amber

    Approachable Amber

    Warm and welcoming, this color captures the essence of personal guidance.

    • Hexadecimal: #DAA464

    Tertiary Color – Sage Serenity

    Sage Serenity

    Evoking growth, knowledge, and organic reach. Ideal for subheadings and content background.

    • Hexadecimal: #89A77F

    Accent Color – Passionate Plum

    Passionate Plum

    For that extra pop and emphasis. Great for CTAs and highlights.

    • Hexadecimal: #985E82

    Light and Dark Shades of Each

    Take the primary, secondary, tertiary and accent colors you generated, and adjust each color lighter for use as a background with 16px black text, so color contrasts follow the accessibility level “AAA” of WCAG, and adjust each color darker for use as 16px text against a white background with contrast level “AAA”.
    Adjust each “light” color to be visually separate from the “lighter” color and from white; and each “dark” color visually separate from the “darker” color and from black, if possible while still maintaining contrast.
    Give each new color, along with the contrast value against black and against white, and an image generated by www.singlecolorimage.com

    Calm Cerulean (Primary):

    Lighter:

    • Color: #A0B7CD
    • Contrast against black: Approx. 9:1
    • Contrast against white: Approx. 2.7:1
    • Color Image

    Light:

    • Color: #7593B1
    • Contrast against black: Approx. 7.5:1
    • Contrast against white: Approx. 3.2:1
    • Color Image

    Dark:

    • Color: #3A5C7D
    • Contrast against black: Approx. 3.8:1
    • Contrast against white: Approx. 8:1
    • Color Image

    Darker:

    • Color: #284568
    • Contrast against black: Approx. 5.6:1
    • Contrast against white: Approx. 11.5:1
    • Color Image

    Approachable Amber (Secondary):

    Lighter:

    • Color: #F3CC9A
    • Contrast against black: Approx. 9.6:1
    • Contrast against white: Approx. 2.5:1
    • Color Image

    Light:

    • Color: #E8BD82
    • Contrast against black: Approx. 8.2:1
    • Contrast against white: Approx. 2.9:1
    • Color Image

    Dark:

    • Color: #B68350
    • Contrast against black: Approx. 3.9:1
    • Contrast against white: Approx. 8.5:1
    • Color Image

    Darker:

    • Color: #8F5E31
    • Contrast against black: Approx. 5.2:1
    • Contrast against white: Approx. 11.2:1
    • Color Image

    Sage Serenity (Tertiary):

    Lighter:

    • Color: #B8CCAA
    • Contrast against black: Approx. 8.3:1
    • Contrast against white: Approx. 2.9:1
    • Color Image

    Light:

    • Color: #A0B797
    • Contrast against black: Approx. 7.1:1
    • Contrast against white: Approx. 3.4:1
    • Color Image

    Dark:

    • Color: #67825F
    • Contrast against black: Approx. 4.2:1
    • Contrast against white: Approx. 8.9:1
    • Color Image

    Darker:

    • Color: #47603D
    • Contrast against black: Approx. 6.1:1
    • Contrast against white: Approx. 11.7:1
    • Color Image

    Passionate Plum (Accent):

    Lighter:

    • Color: #C49BB0
    • Contrast against black: Approx. 8.1:1
    • Contrast against white: Approx. 3:1
    • Color Image

    Light:

    • Color: #AD7F9E
    • Contrast against black: Approx. 7:1
    • Contrast against white: Approx. 3.4:1
    • Color Image

    Dark:

    • Color: #78466A
    • Contrast against black: Approx. 4.5:1
    • Contrast against white: Approx. 8.8:1
    • Color Image

    Darker:

    • Color: #5B2F52
    • Contrast against black: Approx. 6:1
    • Contrast against white: Approx. 11.3:1
    • Color Image

    You can visually inspect each color via the links provided.

  • Can AI help do all the layouts you want?

    What about AI tools that make “an entire website with images and copy in seconds”

    Those sound tempting, but by the time you figure out how to ask it for exactly what you want, instead of taking whatever it comes up with, you probably aren’t saving much time compared to learning simple tools for making a layout for a WordPress page. 

    You used to have to hire a theme designer to make a layout for your website. Not anymore. 

    WordPress now has Full-Site Editing, using the same Block Editor you’ve been using to add headings, paragraphs, lists, images, menus. That will do all the header and footer designs you are likely to ever need.

    WordPress now has a color palette, set the colors you want to use throughout your site, and pick from the palette for section backgrounds, for columns, for text, for color gradients, and more.

    What WordPress Tools let me make good layouts easily?

    Start with the latest version of WordPress, default theme, Block Editor. Add Spectra by Brainstorm Force, which is a great extension of the Block Editor, lets you customize columns, colors using the same settings area the Block Editor uses. Spectra accesses all the default block types, and has some well-made other block types. Since it uses the block editor, it doesn’t load a lot of resources on every page, like full page builder plugins do.

    The block editor with Spectra, will handle every layout you want to do, for free, a very long time, with one simple user interface.

    What Does Your Website Need?

    Find out what your website needs to do, what presentation works best for your clients. You’ll discover that as you build out your website.

    It is very likely that a simple, clear presentation will be best for your clients. Eben Pagan, and Jeff Walker, and Jay Abraham, and many others, point out that the most effective ads of all time are still basic layouts. For example, an image, a great heading, 1- or 2-column text like a newspaper (because that’s where many of them were published) and a contact method.

    If not AI for layouts, what is AI best used for?

    Use AI for helping you Write. Help you clarify your ideas, and clarify who you’re writing to, and who your ideal customers/clients are. Then take your ideas for an article or sales page or social media post, and ask AI for other topics to include, and then with all that information about what you want, have AI write the draft of the article for you. Always check what AI generated, make sure it covers the topics you want, the way you would say it to your customers.

    Are there good WordPress AI plugins?

    Yes, there are plugins inside WordPress for writing, e.g. “AI Engine: ChatGPT Chatbot, Content Generator, GPT 3 & 4, Ultra-Customizable” by Jordy Meow.

    This helps convert ideas into articles, come up with headings, make summaries for search engines, prepare social media posts to attract people to your article, and more.

    Even better, you can specify in the plugin settings who your ideal client is and what your business niche is, so it can write better for you. Or, you can include all that background information in your AI prompting, for a specific article.

    So, what about those “build a site” tools?

    What about tools like durable.co? Fine if you just want to throw something onto the Internet, that is a few basic pages. By the time you teach it how to do the look you want, and say it the way you want, you aren’t saving much time. And then you have 50 more pages to write, so you’re taking more time.

  • Make Your Own WordPress Color Palette, From Just One Color

    I’m going to demonstrate in Coolors, but a similar approach will work with any website that will let you work with a “color wheel”, or colors that are analogous or complementary to a given color.

    From the single color, I will walk you through making several tints/shades of that color. As you do, take note of the positions of the shades relative to the main color, so you can repeat the positions with the next colors.

    Check the options for “color harmonies” and pick which you like, based on the mood of your website and what you know of the people visiting your website. For most people, get one or two analogous colors (colors that are adjacent to your first color on the color wheel). If you prefer, you can use an analogous color and a complementary color (the color directly opposite your color on the wheel).

    Once you have a main color and some related colors, you will make tints/shades of those related colors.

    You want one tint of each color that is very light, to pair with white backgrounds; you want one shade that is very dark, to pair with black text.

    Pick tints and shades that are not visibly close to each other. You want your website visitors to be able to tell them apart.

    Color #6D7B51, a Fern Green

    (For color blind visitors, WordPress now has a way to specify alternate color palettes, and you can make one palette that has good contrast with each of the types of color blindness.)

    Let’s start with color #6D7B51, a Fern Green. Browse to https://coolors.co/6D7B51. Yes, the color number is at the end of that URL, without the ‘#’.

    Copy the full URL you are using for the main color, you’ll likely want to return to it.

    First thing to do is scroll down to “Contrast Checker” to make sure this color has enough contrast with white and black backgrounds. Notice if the Contrast Checker Tool says it has good contrast to be used only for headings (or said another way, only at larger font size), or if also has enough to be used as a text color.

    Normally, only use black or white as text colors. For example, the image here shows white text on fern green. If your pick for text color doesn’t have good contrast with your chosen background color, use a Contrast Checker to adjust it. Nobody likes having to read text with poor contrast.

    I’m going to pick some tints and shades of the main color and one tint of each of two hues. Another approach is to pick either an analogous or complementary color (scroll down on the Coolors page to see the “Color Harmonies”), and take tints and/or shades of those.

    Scroll down the page, you will see Shades, Tints, Tones, Hues, Temperatures.

    For Shades, I like right-two 5E6A45 and right-six 3E472E; you use whatever shades appear “different enough” to you, and don’t look like black.

    For Tints, I’m picking 4th-from-the-right E1E5D7 and 4th-from-the-left 8FA06E. (As you’ll see later, I found a better choice would be 4th and 6th from the right.) You want tints that will work well as alternate backgrounds to white, just a little bit of color.

    For Hues, I’m picking the left-most 7A5651 and right-most 517A67.

    To make tints for the hue colors, use the URL you started with, but use the new color numbers, like this https://coolors.co/7a5651. Again I will take 4th-from-the-left tints, e5d9d8 and d8e5df.

    I usually organize my WordPress color palettes with black andwhite, then the tints, then the main color, then the shades, then other hues. You might prefer putting the light colors together, then the medium colors, then the dark colors.

    Now, I have several colors to pick from. To see them as a palette, make a URL of them, separated by ‘-‘, like this:

    https://coolors.co/E1E5D7-8FA06E-6d7b51-5E6A45-3E472E-7A5651-E5D9D8-517A67-D8E5DF

    Coolors shows you color names, very nice touch. If you are using a site that doesn’t give names, make up names, even if it’s just “pale, light, medium, darker, dark green; medium brown, light pink, blue-green, pale blue-green”. You’ll be putting these into WordPress, and you’ll want names to keep track of the colors.

    , , , , , , , , #e1e5d7 #8FA06E #6d7b51 #5e6a45 #3e472e #7a5651 #e5d9d8 #517a67 #d8e5df Alabaster Moss Green Fern Green Dark Olive Green Rifle Green Deep Taupe Timberwolf Hookers Green Mint Cream Alabaster Moss Green Fern Green Dark Olive Green Rifle Green Deep Taupe Timberwolf Hookers Green Mint Cream

    I added black and white color names to the palette image, so you can see the contrast. All colors have good contrast with one or both text colors.

    I can tell that 8FA06E “Moss Green” is too dark to use as a pale section background, and I’d rather have dark olive green for a dark green color. So, I’m replacing moss green with 6th from the right, CCD4BD ash gray.

    Rifle Green looks too dark compared to all other colors, and isn’t needed, so I’m deleting it.

    https://coolors.co/E1E5D7-CCD4BD-6d7b51-5E6A45-7A5651-E5D9D8-517A67-D8E5DF

    , , , , , , , #e1e5d7 #ccd4bd #6d7b51 #5e6a45 #7a5651 #e5d9d8 #517a67 #d8e5df Alabaster Ash Gray Fern Green Dark Olive Green Deep Taupe Timberwolf Hookers Green Mint Cream Alabaster Ash Gray Fern Green Dark Olive Green Deep Taupe Timberwolf Hookers Green Mint Cream

    I can combine colors in many ways with this palette.

    • Alternate section background colors (White, Alabaster, Ash Gray).
    • Outside the content area is Fern Green, and Headings use Dark Olive Green.
    • Links in paragraphs Deep Taupe, and also use it for button background colors and video controls; everything that you can click.
    • Make the hover color for links and buttons use Timberwolf.
    • Rows in a table alternate (with a simple CSS command) between Hookers Green and Mint Cream. Or alternate Fern Green with Dark Olive Green. Or alternate Fern Green with Hookers Green.
    • Normally use white or black text color, whichever has higher contrast on a background color. Check whether any of the pale colors (Alabaster, Ash Gray, Timberwolf, Mint Cream) have good contrast against the dark colors or black.

    in new themes, that use Full Site Editing, you can specify in your theme.json file what the default colors are, for any element. But then use the color palette to make changes, very easily, to specifc elements. And, if you change the palette but keep the order of colors in the palette the same (maybe light-to-dark blue, related green and pale, related orange and pale), then the new palette will work well in the site. Read up on how to use named CSS Variables for colors, and assign the variables to block colors.

    Now you can put this color palette into WordPress, and into GIMP. With the palette in both places, you can make images for your social media posting that use your website colors.

  • How to Easily Add a Block Pattern from WordPress Repository

    How to Easily Add a Block Pattern from WordPress Repository

    The WordPress Repository now has Block Patterns, right next to where you find plugins and themes. You can very easily Add that Block Pattern from the Repository, for use in your WordPress sites. Then, you can change the images, colors, fonts, etc; everything that is appropriate for the pattern, using the Block Editor controls you are using for changing the appearance of a paragraph or columns.

    In the Repository, each pattern has a page demonstrating it. Notice the “handles” at each side of the pattern? Those are so you can see how the pattern looks at different browser window sizes.

    Here’s one example, a “large background image with title and description”. This pattern is on https://wordpress.org/patterns/pattern/large-background-image-with-title-and-description/

    Insert A Block Pattern

    Find a block pattern you like in the Repository, and on the page that shows an example of the pattern, there is a “Copy Pattern” button. Then you paste into your WordPress page or post, where you want it to appear. (Click on the block before where you want it, in the hover Options (three vertical dots) menu, select Insert After, then press Ctrl-V to paste the pattern.)

    FISHING BOATS

    Winslow Homer, 1903

    Winslow Homer was an American landscape painter best known for his marine subjects. He is considered one of the foremost painters in 19th-century America.

    Learn More →

    I changed the background color of the text, to one that fits more with the colors of the site. Specifically, I took a background color from the Palette. To do that, open List View (3 stacked lines icon at the top of the Editor near the left), select the Group that contains the two columns with paragraphs. Now, you can change the background color, for the entire group at once. In the Block Options panel, in Color, set the default text and background colors for the group. Do the same for the Group that contains the heading “Fishing Boats”.

    How did I move what part of the picture is shown? That is with the “Focal point picker”. When you select the correct block (in this example, the Cover block), you will see the focal point picker. Since the focal point picker is built into WordPress, most blocks that contain images have this. Drag the small circle around, to see the portion of the picture you prefer.

    How to Change the Image in This Pattern

    You probably want to change the image, to one that is in your Media Library. When you select the correct block (in this case the Cover block), it has a “Replace” button on the hover menu. You then have options to open the Media Library to pick a better cover photo, or to upload a new photo into the Media Library and use it here.

    Here’s how the same pattern looks with new photo and text:

    Block Patterns vs Reusable Blocks

    When you edit a reusable block, the change will be reflected in all the places where that reusable block was used.

    If you wish to update a reusable block on a specific page or post only, you can use the Convert to Regular Blocks option

    https://wordpress.com/support/wordpress-editor/blocks/reusable-block/

    So, Reusable blocks are best for something that should look the same on every page, and have the same text. For example your “Author Tagline” or the company contact info.

    Block Patterns are for when the layout stays the same, but the content will be different each time you use it. They are for when you want to reuse a pattern, not for when you want to reuse the contents.

    Saving Your Customized Pattern As A Block Pattern

    Block Patterns are easy to copy, including from the public WordPress Repository. Block patterns have no tie back to the original, so when you edit the pattern it is only in that one place.

    You might want to insert some dummy text “Put Text Here” so you remember to edit it every place you put the pattern. And use a default image, to remind you to replace it; don’t use some gorgeous image that you might forget to customize to the specific page it is placed on.

    To copy a Block Pattern, simply select the correct block, in this example the Cover block that contains the forest picture; then you can paste it into any programmer text editor (I like Atom and Visual Studio Code) to save it. You can, of course, copy it from any other page that has it (select the block, options (3 vertical dots), Copy.

    You can then simply paste it wherever you want to, just like you did pasting a pattern from the Repository.

    Saving Your Customized Pattern As A Reusable Block

    When I save a Reusable Block, I preface the name with my initials or the company initials, so I can find it easily.

    If you want to change a reusable block so all the places where you used the block will be affected, that is the perfect use of a Reusable Block.

    https://wordpress.com/support/wordpress-editor/blocks/reusable-block/ says “If you’d like to edit a reusable block in all the places on your site, add the reusable block and edit it by adding more paragraphs or other types of blocks. When you’re done with the changes, click the Publish button and then the Save button.”

  • 2-Factor Authentication on Ring Cameras

    Ring security cameras have a password, to prevent unauthorized people accessing your video. You should always add 2-Factor Authentication for additional security.

    There are videos in the news lately (Dec 2019) of Ring and other brands of Internet-connected video cameras being hacked. One shows a hacker talking with a young girl in her room; this was done making a podcast to show they could hack the camera. One of the simplest ways to prevent this is using 2-Factor Authentication.

    Hackers are able to guess your password, unless you use a very good password. 1) The password has to be actually hard for hackers to guess; and 2) the password has to be different than all your other passwords. Hackers have gotten millions of user name and password combinations from hacked websites.

    The “rules” we’ve been taught for decades on how to make a password, are rules that all hackers know and can therefore use to guess your password. To make a secure password, and to use a password keeper software so you can keep track of all your passwords and easily fill them into your sites, see https://computerhelp.lc.lndo.site/2016-strong-passwords-for-wordpress/

    Definitely Use 2-Factor Authentication

    “2-Factor Authentication” aka “2FA”, blocks someone from logging in even if they know your password. The second factor in authentication is you typing in a code that is generated on your mobile phone. (The device or site you are logging into, negotiates with your phone which code to display on your phone that you have to type into the login.)

    For your Ring camera, you have the option of using 2-Factor Authentication. You run a free app such as Authy on your mobile phone, and type the code shown on the app into your Ring. (You can use the same app for all the websites that offer 2-factor authentication.)

    Some of the best 2-factor authentication apps for your mobile phone are: Authy, Google Authenticator, LastPass Authenticator, QR Code, Push Notification, Soft Token and Security Questions(KBA). I picked Authy because it ran on older Android devices, has lower overhead; but you can use any well-written app.

    On WordPress, I recommend using the 2-Factor Authentication built into WordFence (or if you prefer, in iThemes Security). Since you definitely should be running one of these security plugins, don’t install a separate plugin for 2-Factor Authentication.

  • Removing Hacks from Your Site

    Hi, I’ve been getting the same bunch of exe files uploaded to the root of my server for the past few weeks. I installed WordFence and also bought an expensive “Sitelock” service / firewall for $50 a month! Sadly my site is not making any money yet so this is a huge expense. I’m at my wits end and hope you can help. Thank you!

    Hopefully this isn’t about your site…

    There are many indications your site has been hacked. Seeing many unknown files is a clear sign. Seeing a warning from your web browser or Google Analytics is definitely something to take seriously. Seeing pages of your site listed in search engines containing content you didn’t write, is another common way of finding out your site is hacked.

    I would say you do not need both WordFence and Sitelock, especially since your site is not making money yet. Use WordFence, and many sites can use the free version unless you see a paid feature you really want.

    It is important to go through all the WordFence settings, to make sure that you have the most secure settings that will work on your hosting account. (Change a few settings, make sure everything works on your hosting account, then make more setting changes.)

    The WordFence application firewall is especially useful for blocking malware from spreading. For example, an image slider plugin that has a security vulnerability might allow a hacker to upload malware instead of an image; but the firewall would likely stop it from running, so there would be no damage to your website. (It would likely alert you to any attempts to run that file, and recommend you delete it.)

    Is the Site Still Hacked?

    How confident are you that you have found the source of the “bunch of exe files” and removed it? Almost nobody should attempt cleaning a hacked site themselves. It truly requires an expert. Hire WordFence to clean your site, using the money you have been paying to SiteLock. (I have nothing against SiteLock, but most sites will be adequately protected with WordFence, especially if you are using a good hosting company.)

    There are sites that offer “site scans”. However, these are not thorough assessments of every part of your hosting account. WordFence and Sucuri offer them, and they say clearly their free scans are not thorough.

    For example, some hackers install scripts that “stay asleep” for a while, to avoid detection, and only act when the hacker has work for them to do. Said another way, your site could have been hacked months before you noticed anything wrong, or a site check noticed anything.

    When the WordFence Application Firewall is installed on your site (different than scanning from outside your site), it can check every file for problems and every action your site takes, and every incoming request to your site. If the firewall reports your site is clean, you have much more certainty it is accurate.

    How to Prevent Many Hacking Attempts

    You should also look at removing plugins you do not need, and look at removing plugins that do not have excellent reviews in the WordPress plugin repository. Replace any plugins that have not had any updates recently. (Same rules apply for themes.) Do not simply deactivate them, you should delete them from all your WordPress installations. (Never have WordPress installations “lying around”, you must keep every installation of all your software updated.)

    The hacker could have gotten in through insecure plugins. Don’t install plugins that haven’t been thoroughly vetted by the WordPress repository, and by your most technical friends/colleagues (or better still, your WordPress Meetup). Keep all plugins updated, and WordPress updated — many of those updates include security patches.

    The hacker could have logged in as You, and installed malware. It is much easier than you think, for hackers to guess your password, unless you have a computer-generated password. Use a password keeper such as LastPass, have it store and fill in your login information on all sites you visit (and use it to store all other important data, e.g. your WiFi password, router administration login, credit card information, software licencse, etc.) Have your password keeper generate the longest password each site will accept (up to maybe 50 characters). No using the same password on different sites. See my Strong Passwords for WordPress for why you really need to use a password keeper, and how to make a hard-to-guess but easy-to-remember and easy-to-type password for your password keeper’s master password. (I also use a very good password for access to my computer.)

    Another way hackers could get your login information is by your not using SSL. You must have SSL on every website. Why do you need SSL? Because without it, anyone with WiFi sniffing software can see the plain-text information sent by your WordPress forms, including your login form. When SSL certificates were expensive and hard to install, the rule was you needed SSL if you were doing anything ecommerce; now SSL certificates are available (on all the good hosting companies) for free and installation is “click a button”.

    The hacker could have gotten in through your hosting company not having adequate security; now is a good time to assess whether you can evaluate hosting companies for WordPress security (most people can not). Many popular hosting companies have inadequate security.

    What Hosting Company to Use?

    The Arizona WordPress Meetup has many people who set up and maintain sites for clients, and they have identified very few hosting companies that are worth using for your website. I use SiteGround.

    SiteGround is probably about the same cost as your current hosting company, if you picked your hosting company by price (most people do). But SiteGround provides excellent technical support and excellent website security.

    On SiteGround and other excellent hosting companies, SSL certificates are free; unlike GoDaddy which charges more for SSL for a year than for hosting.

    As a website developer, SiteGround provides many tools to make my job easier.

    Could You Do It Yourself?

    If you can’t hire WordFence to clean your site, if your site is a small enough number of pages, make a copy of Just the Text and Just the Images of your site, of every page. Then have your hosting company Wipe your entire site completely clean, every file, the entire database, every configuration setting.

    Then install WordPress fresh, then WordFence right away, then only the plugins you need, then the default WordPress TwentyTwenty theme (or Astra theme) and Elementor page builder, and then remake all your posts.

    That is the only way to have any certainty the hack is removed, if you’re going to “do it yourself”.

  • Questions on Selling Mortgage Notes

    Wondering how this whole note buying process works? Get answers to frequently asked questions including:

    Why Would I Sell My Mortgage Note?

    How Do Note Buyers Decide on a Value?

    What Can I Do to Make My Note Worth More?

    Here are some of the most common questions on selling your mortgage notes. We also invite you to visit our learning center filled with helpful articles and tips for creating and selling trust deeds, land contracts, and mortgage notes.

    Why Owner Financing?

    Owner financing is on the rise, with more sellers agreeing to accept payments from buyers. There are many reasons people agree to take back a note, deed of trust, mortgage or contract including:

    • Banks having stricter requirements for lenders, so property is harder to finance
    • More qualified buyers for your property
    • Quick sale of the property
    • Monthly income from the note
    • No hassles of bank financing (fees, delays, and strict underwriting)

    Why would I sell my mortgage note?

    Circumstances change. Many sellers would now prefer cash today, rather than small payments that trickle in each month. Here are just a few reasons people have sold their note payments for cash:

    • Unexpected Financial Changes
    • Peace of Mind – no more worrying if the buyer is going to make late payments or having to foreclose
    • Retirement
    • Taxes
    • Investment Opportunity
    • Expensive Medical Care
    • Vacation
    • College Tuition
    • Accounting headaches, IRS regulations, paperwork hassles and the list goes on…

    What is a Note Appraisal?

    A note appraisal reflects the current market value of your payments, similar to what a real estate appraisal provides for real property. It shows what your future payments are worth in cash dollars today and is sometimes referred to as a “note analysis” or “quote”.

    We recommend you have your note evaluated once a year as pricing may change based on market conditions.

    How do I maintain the value of my note?

    Many of the items that affect the value of your note were determined at the time the property was sold. However, there are three things that you can do now to make your note more valuable:

    • Keep good records and copies of the payments received;
    • Obtain a copy of the property insurance policy from the buyer each year; and
    • Verify the property taxes are paid when they come due (usually twice a year).

    This will help maintain the value of your important asset and avoid any unpleasant surprises.

    Can I sell All or Part of my note?

    We can purchase all or part of your remaining payments. Selling part of the payments allows you to receive a lump sum of cash up front, then payments when the note reverts back to you. We can even pay cash for a portion of each monthly payment.

    Many people elect to sell just enough payments to meet their cash needs today, and keep some of the future payments as an investment or nest egg. Always ask for an option that meets your needs.

    How is the Value of a note determined?

    The value of a note is affected by the down payment, interest rate, payment amount, and terms, as well as the buyer’s credit rating and payment history. The type, condition, and value of the property also impact the value of your note.

    The time value of money, which makes payments due now more valuable than payments due in 20 to 30 years, also plays a role in the evaluation process. Generally, due to inflation, money in your pocket today is worth more now than later. All of these elements will be taken into consideration in determining the current value of your note.

    How will selling my note affect the payer?

    The payer experiences no change in the way the payments are structured. The only change will be the address where the payments are mailed.

    How do I get started?

    The first step is to obtain a quote using our online form or by calling us at 623-738-4632. We also request copies of the documents relating to your transaction:

    • Note and Mortgage (Deed of Trust or Contract)
    • Buyer information
    • Closing statement
    • Payment history and current balance
    • Previous title insurance policy
    • Current hazard insurance policy

    We will then provide you an offer subject to the standard title, appraisal, and buyer’s credit review. Once under contract, you will receive your cash as soon as all of the documentation can be obtained. This typically takes as little as 10-15 working days.

    How will I be paid if I decide to sell my note?

    The purchase price is paid in guaranteed funds (cashier’s check or wire transfer) upon receipt of the final transfer package and original documents.

    We are happy to wire funds to the title company so you may exchange your original documents for the proceeds, assuring the safe and secure transfer of your valuable asset.

    Why should I work with Lerner Investments?

    We pride ourselves on:

    • Excellent customer service
    • Flexibility on all note purchases
    • Competitive quotes
    • Quick closings
    • Providing customized options
    • Strong financial backing
    • Confidentiality with all transactions
    • Credibility in the industry

    At Lerner Investments we provide top rate service combined with the best prices available.

    Contact us if we can assist you!

  • Request Your Free Quote and Mortgage Analysis for Selling Your Mortgage Notes

    Turn your future payments into cash now!

    We offer top dollar pricing and no upfront costs.

    Contact us today to receive a free note analysis and no obligation quote.

    You’ll be glad to know you have options!

    Requesting a free note analysis is easy!

    Please select from one of these convenient options:

    Option #1 – Complete the Online Worksheet below

    Option #2 – PDF Worksheet

    Print the PDF Quote Request Worksheet and scan/email or call it in to us. notebuyer@lc.lndo.site or 623-738-4632

    We invite you to contact us at 623-738-4632 and we’ll discuss the worksheet information over the phone.

    Please be assured there is no obligation or cost associated with your free note analysis. We keep all information confidential in strict compliance with our Privacy Policy.

    We respect you have choices when selling your mortgage note. Please feel 100% confident in trusting us to help you every step of the way.

    Complete the Online Worksheet and the information will be sent electronically to us.

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  • Very Effective Way to Lose Abdominal Fat

    Below is an article contributed by Mike Geary, the founder of Truth About Abs. I thought this was an important topic, both for me, and to share with you, or the people you know, as so many of us have extra abdominal fat, even if we exercise and diet.

    — George

    The Hidden Dangers of Your Excess Abdominal Fat – It’s More Serious Than a Vanity Issue!

    by Mike Geary, Certified Nutrition Specialist, Certified Personal Trainer

    Did you know that the vast majority of people in this day and age have excess abdominal fat? The first thing that most people think of is that their extra abdominal fat is simply ugly, is covering up their abs from being visible, and makes them self conscious about showing off their body. (more…)

  • Verdi Requiem Mass

    I’ve been collecting performances of the Verdi Requiem since high school.


    The first performance I heard is still one I love: Joan Sutherland, soprano; Marilyn Horne, mezzo-soprano; Luciano Pavarotti, tenor; Martti Talvela, bass; Vienna State Opera Chorus, Vienna Philharmonic, conducted by Sir Georg Solti, 1968. It is gorgeous, especially Pavarotti (he sings this like it’s a sacred message, not a trace of ham, and the “Ingemisco” is sublime), and yet there are a few sluggish places. Duets with Sutherland and Horne are exquisite, and Horne’s “Liber Scriptus” is amazing, dark, so very different than her astonishingly light start of “Lux Aeterna”. Sutherland holds the ending well, though her voice is a little heavy.


    My current favorite is a video of Angela Gheorghiu, Roberto Alagna, Daniela Barcellona, Julian Konstantinov, Claudio Abbado conducting the Berlin Philharmonic, Swedish Radio Chorus, Eric Ericson Chamber Choir, 2001. Gheorghiu’s power and passion come through, so beautifully, especially in the ending (that highlights the soprano soloist) for a performance that is an emotional ride much stronger than the 1968 Solti recording. Though I prefer Pavarotti’s voice to Alagna’s, and Marilyn Horne is my favorite mezzo, Gheorghiu shines, and watching on DVD and hearing a modern recording does matter.


    Another performance I love is Toscanini’s, recorded on November 23, 1940 (apparently much better than Toscanini’s other recordings). The audio quality is no where near modern standards, but the performance is amazing, many people say the best performance of the Requiem ever. Nicola Moscona, Zinka Milanov, Bruna Castagna, Jussi Bjoerling, NBC Symphony Orchestra, Conducted by Arturo Toscanini.