Andy Cormier
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Articles by Andy Cormier
Three MSP Shifts That Will Define 2026 and Why AI, Security, and Microsoft Are Colliding
MSP, AI/ML, MDR, SOC, Security Management COMMENTRAY: In the MSP ecosystem, AI, security, and Microsoft are not showing up as separate initiatives anymore; they are colliding in day-to-day operations and forcing MSPs to make hard choices about focus and scale. The emphasis on simplification feels accurate because most partners are already overloaded, not lacking tools.
You Don’t Need These Modular Smart Lights, but You’ll Want Them
Easy setup process with Govee Mini Panel Lights is intuitive, and app control is smooth. Extensive customization options include solid colors, animations, music sync, DIY effects, finger sketching, and community presets. Preset scenes simplify lighting design on Mini Panel Lights, but default animation speeds can be too fast. The Govee Mini Panel Lights are programmable, modular smart lights which offer a highly customizable way to illuminate your room.
I Don’t Stream, but the Stream Deck Changed How I Work
Stream Deck organizes desktop clutter by allowing you to offload shortcuts It enhances app functionality with hotkeys or direct API access for many functions. The Multi Action tool simplifies complex tasks, offering endless possibilities for automation. While Elgato’s device is called the “Stream” Deck, far more than just creators can benefit from it. I use my Stream Deck every day for productivity, and it's the one device I can't work without.
These 3 Tips Will Drastically Improve Your Sora AI Videos
OpenAI's Sora video generation tool produces outputs so good you might question reality—but most of what it generates is so unnatural you can spot it easily. So, if you want better Sora AI videos, try these Sora prompting tips and techniques for an instant improvement. 3 Focus on Style and Aesthetic Sora is one of many AI text-to-video tools, but it's coming from the biggest player in the AI market, OpenAI. Sora seems to understand the “vibe” of your prompts better than highly specific details.
Amazon's New Premium Kindle Has Too Many Features for its Own Good
The Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (2024) offers a phenomenal 12-week battery life. It includes numerous premium features like IPX8 waterproofing. The device is lightweight even with a large 7 inch screen. The 2024 Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition is the most premium standard black and white Kindle, with features like IPX8 waterproofing, 12-week battery life, wireless charging, and dynamic front lighting.
When You Should and Shouldn’t Use AI for Email
AI can help you draft emails in seconds, but that doesn't mean you should always use it. Some emails benefit from automation, while others demand a human touch. Knowing when to let AI take the reins—and when to type it yourself—can make all the difference. For emails on the simpler side, such as quick logistical messages, AI is almost certainly fine to use to write your reply. If creativity and critical thinking aren’t required in your writing, using AI probably won’t hurt your output.
When You Should and Shouldn’t Use AI for Email
One year later, the Rabbit R1 is actually good now — here's why If you’re reading this, chances are you already know the journey the Rabbit R1 has been on — hopping high with expectations built at CES, and then …
I Wish I'd Known These 4 Things Before Paying for Canva Pro
I’ve paid for Canva’s Pro subscription twice and got a refund once. Why? I realized the free version more than sufficed for my needs. If you’re considering paying for it, consider these points before you commit. 1 I Didn't Actually Need Premium Features The way I use Canva, I truly do not need pro features. I paid once, realized I didn't need the premium features, and, other than by accident, never paid again.
4 Predictions Shaping the Future of MSPs in 2025 : @VMblog
Industry executives and experts share their predictions for 2025. Read them in this 17th annual VMblog.com series exclusive. By Andy Cormier, Channel Chief, Syncro With technology advancements, changing client expectations, and cybersecurity needs increasing, managed service providers (MSPs) are experiencing significant changes. As I look ahead to 2025, I've identified several trends that I believe will influence how MSPs operate and deliver value to their clients.
4 Predictions Shaping the Future of MSPs in 2025 : @VMblog
Industry executives and experts share their predictions for 2025. Read them in this 17th annual VMblog.com series exclusive. By Andy Cormier, Channel Chief, Syncro With technology advancements, changing client expectations, and cybersecurity needs increasing, managed service providers (MSPs) are experiencing significant changes. As I look ahead to 2025, I've identified several trends that I believe will influence how MSPs operate and deliver value to their clients.
4 Reasons Why AI Checkers Might Flag Your Writing
Perfect grammar & certain word choices can trigger AI flags Second-language English speakers may be the most vulnerable Using writing assistants can raise suspicions if overused Tools to check AI writing are notoriously bad. They regularly flag human-written pieces for reasons like grammar, word choice, and style, leading to huge issues for students and others who rely on the written word. So, if AI writing detection tools are constantly picking up your writing, here's why—and how you can fix it.
You Can Now Set ChatGPT to Complete Tasks, and This Is How to Use It Properly
Avoid using scheduled tasks for reminders to maximize utility. Start with a simple request and edit for more specificity. Provide clear instructions and formatting for best results. ChatGPT tasks allows you to set one-off or recurring prompts, using the AI chatbot to manage your life and boost your productivity. However, at the time of writing, you only have ten tasks available, so it's important not to waste them on prompts you could complete in other apps.
You Can Now Set ChatGPT to Complete Tasks, and This Is How to Use It Properly
Elon Musk and Sundar Pichai spotted using these Apple and Google smartphones at Donald Trump Inauguration Donald Trump returned as the 47th President of the United States of America on Monday, January 20. Trump said in his inaugural address that under his …
I Was Phished on Steam: How to Prevent It, and How to Respond
I was phished on Steam. You might think it won’t happen, but the process is surprisingly simple. A friend’s Steam account was compromised, and “he” asked me to vote in a CounterStrike tournament. Source link
I Was Phished on Steam: How to Prevent It, and How to Respond
Verify identities if sent a link, and don't click links sent in Steam messages Never login to Steam with full credentials on 3rd party sites Contact support, check your blocklist, and deauthorize devices if affected I was phished on Steam. You might think it won't happen, but the process is surprisingly simple. A friend's Steam account was compromised, and "he" asked me to vote in a CounterStrike tournament.
I've Found the Perfect Mechanical Keyboard for Casual Customization Original
The Keychron K8 Max offers superb quality for the price. The mechanical keyboard has a "thocky" sound with its brown switches. You have extensive customization options for both the hardware and software. The Keychron K8 Max is a highly customizable mechanical keyboard with a quality frame. Its most premium model features hot-swappable switches and an aluminum frame. This keyboard may be an enticing option for those seeking a fully-fledged pre-built or folks curious about keyboard customization.
How I Use My Stream Deck to Control Zoom and Discord Calls Original
Stream Decks reduce friction by providing quick access to features in video calling apps. Download free plugins & profiles from Elgato Marketplace for Stream Decks to control conferencing apps. Use a free Zoom profile preset and Discord plugin to access shortcuts, but configure global hotkeys cautiously. Most people buy Elgato Stream Decks for live streaming, but they can do much more. I’ve turned mine into a control hub for Zoom classes, work meetings, and Discord hangouts—streamlining every call.
5 Tips to Look and Sound Your Best on Zoom Calls
As a content creator with fancy video and audio gear, I often get compliments when on Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or even Discord calls for my professional quality. While hardware quality does help with looking professional, it is attainable for anyone with a few small tweaks and possibly a couple of small purchases. 1 A Bit of Lighting Goes a Long Way When dissatisfied with a webcam image, many people first opt to buy a nicer webcam.
Nintendo’s Gimmicky Alarm Clock Is Expensive but Gets Me Out of Bed
The Nintendo Alarmo offers surprisingly deep features for an alarm clock, especially a fun Nintendo one. The motion sensor motivates waking up but is ineffective with pets or a partner. The price is quite high for an alarm clock. The Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo offers surprisingly advanced features for an alarm clock. It has a motion sensor to ensure you actually get out of bed, hourly chimes, sleep sounds, sleep stat tracking, and many alarm settings.
Amazon’s 2024 Kindle Is Underwhelming in a Good Way
The 2024 Amazon Kindle offers a minor refresh upon the 2022 11th-generation model. It’s 25% brighter than the previous model but otherwise mostly unchanged other than a new matcha green color. While this Kindle is indeed the newest basic model, all Kindles are made for one thing: reading books. Your changes have been saved Amazon Kindle (2024) The 2024 Amazon Kindle offers a basic refresh on the 2022 11th generation model, with 25% higher brightness and new matcha green.
This Is the First Charger I Haven’t Lost Thanks to Its Built-in AirTag Original
The PlugBug's compact design allows flexible usage with minimal obstruction to adjacent outlets. 120W total power and 4 USB-C ports offer broad device support and convenient multi-device charging. Apple Find My integration adds tracking functionality beyond just a charger, making it stand out despite the high price. The Twelve South PlugBug 120 is a wall charging brick featuring four USB-C ports, up to 120W of total power output, and Apple Find My integration for location tracking.
Here’s How I Always Pick the Right USB-C, USB 3.2, USB 3.0, or Thunderbolt Cable
USB-C is effectively the universal cable standard, something that took a long time to come around. However, its brilliant flippable shape and extensive variety of uses can sometimes make it difficult to know if you actually have the right cable for the device at hand. Your Port Might Be a Lower Standard The first check regarding USB-C issues is the port you’re plugging a device into. For example, you might have a USB-C 3.2 hub, plug it into your device, and find that it doesn’t work.
Here's How I Always Pick the Right USB-C, USB 3.2, USB 3.0, or Thunderbolt Cable
USB-C is effectively the universal cable standard, something that took a long time to come around. However, its brilliant flippable shape and extensive variety of uses can sometimes make it difficult to know if you actually have the right cable for the device at hand. Your Port Might Be a Lower Standard The first check regarding USB-C issues is the port you’re plugging a device into. For example, you might have a USB-C 3.2 hub, plug it into your device, and find that it doesn’t work.
I Didn’t Expect to Use USB 2.0 in 2024, but It Simplifies My Setup Original
As technology progresses, we tend to gravitate towards higher standards: Thunderbolt instead of USB 2.0, USB-C instead of USB-A, and so on. However, older standards like USB 2.0 still have a place for many people’s setups, as most USB devices simply don’t need anything more advanced.
Google's New Learn About AI Search Makes Learning Simple
Ever wanted to learn more about something in a short time? Google's new Learn About AI-powered search tool is just what you're looking for, blending …
OBSBot Made the First Mid-Range Webcam Actually Worth Recommending
The OBSBOT Meet 2 offers superb image quality for the price and size. It also includes a surprisingly good microphone and noise reduction. The included customizable software is easy to use and feature-rich, but some features fall flat. The OBSBOT Meet 2 is an affordable yet powerful 4K webcam. It includes a large 1/2-inch sensor, surprisingly good audio, and impressive software features. While I generally don’t recommend mid-range webcams, this might be an exception.
I Switched From a Windows PC to a MacBook 3 Years Ago: Here’s Why I’ve Stayed
In December of 2021, I switched my personal computer from a Windows PC to a 14-inch M1 Max MacBook Pro. While it was an expensive purchase costing over $3000, I don't regret it in the slightest, especially after becoming accustomed to macOS. 1 The Apple Ecosystem Is Simply Superior One thing that has always intrigued me about macOS is the cohesion of the Apple ecosystem. Apple designs its operating systems in accordance with specific hardware, and each piece of hardware "talks" to each other.
How I Use ChatGPT as a Tutor to Enhance My Studies
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How I Use ChatGPT as a Tutor to Enhance My Studies
In academia today, many professors and teachers face the gargantuan question of how to deal with AI in the classroom. Many students use it, often unethically, to replace their own efforts. However, instead of replacing hard work, it can serve as an effective tutor—one that helps clarify complex ideas, break down dense topics, and refine study techniques.
This USB Mic's Features Are Too Good, But its Audio Is Just Okay
The JBL Quantum Stream Studio is a premium mic with superb noise rejection and versatile polar patterns. Unfortunately, the out-of-box audio quality is underwhelming and needs tweaking for the best sound. Software features for EQ and compression are lacking, but it sounds better using 3rd-party processing. The JBL Quantum Stream Studio is a premium USB condenser microphone with a wide variety of advanced features, great noise rejection, and good sound.
The Most User-Friendly Stream Deck Is Frustratingly Limited
I’ve owned almost every model of Stream Deck over the years, and they provide a lot of value for streamers, other creators, and people who enjoy tinkering with their setup to be as optimized as possible. Elgato's latest model, the Stream Deck Neo, is poised to provide these benefits from an amazing software suite to a wider audience. Elgato Stream Deck Neo $84 $100 Save $16 Elgato's Stream Deck Neo is a beginner-friendly option to add controls to your setup.
Why I Regret Getting an Adobe All Apps Subscription
Adobe's bundled software forces users to pay for a wide range of apps, many of which will go unused. This approach drives up costs unnecessarily. Adopting a modular pricing approach, similar to the Adobe Photography plan, would benefit users, allowing them to choose specific software bundles rather than paying for a bloated package of apps they won't use.
Elgato Made a Key Light That's Perfect for Beginner Creators
Great lighting quality for beginner creators, with up to 1000 lumens and soft lighting. User-friendly build with tactile controls and monitor mount for convenience. Tiered setup complexity offers both simplicity and depth for users' technical needs. The Elgato Key Light Neo fills a previously unmet niche in high-quality lighting products with its balance between simplicity, depth, and relative affordability.
One of the Best Entry-Level USB Condenser Microphones
The Wave Neo offers superior audio quality and noise rejection. Elgato's Wave Link software setup adds depth with helpful effects. The microphone suffers from wobbly assembly and a sensitive mute button. The Elgato Wave Neo is a high-quality entry-level mic for beginner creators and working professionals alike. It features easy setup, great audio quality, and access to Elgato’s superior Wave Link software, but its simplicity may also hold it back for more advanced users.
This AI Motion-Tracking Webcam Does a Surprisingly Good Job at Keeping Me in Frame
The OBSBOT Tiny 2 Lite offers 4K image quality, AI motion tracking, and remote control at an affordable price point. Highly responsive gesture controls enhance AI motion tracking for dynamic content creation needs. OBSBOT Center software provides deep customization options, but compatibility issues exist with Apple Macs. The OBSBOT Tiny 2 Lite is among the most flexible webcams for creators. It offers a quality 4K image and stellar hardware PTZ (pan, tilt, zoom) with AI motion tracking.
Logitech Made the Best Laptop Stand, But Most People Won't Need It
The Logitech Casa Pop-up Desk offers a laptop stand, keyboard, and mouse combo with Logi Options+ software for setup and customization. The stand is solid, providing improved posture and ergonomics, with storage for peripherals and a sleek folio-style case appearance. The product is niche and expensive, best suited for those who want all three functions; it may be unnecessary for those with separate peripherals.
AI Helps Me With My Schoolwork, But Doesn't Do It for Me (ChatGPT, NotebookLM)
AI tools like ChatGPT & NotebookLM are great for improving learning efficiency & research. Use AI to summarize documents & notes for faster understanding of key points. AI should accelerate learning, not replace effort—use it as a tool, not a crutch. I am a straight-A graduate student with mixed feelings on AI tools. Many people use AI to replace their own efforts in an academic setting. But you can use AI to assist your learning, add efficiency to research, and improve your studies.
I Absolutely Love Razer’s Monitor Light Bar, but It’s Unnecessarily Premium
Superb brightness, RGB options, and customization are highlights of the Razer Aether Monitor Light Bar. The Aether offers smart home integration, premium build quality, and an easy setup process. While overkill for most, the Razer Aether Monitor Light Bar is among the most premium options available. The Razer Aether Monitor Light Bar is a premium illumination solution for gamers.
Why I Wouldn't Recommend Anyone Get Adobe Creative Cloud in 2024
Adobe's subscription is costly, potentially hindering the growth of aspiring creators. Adobe employs predatory pricing practices, charging high cancelation fees. Alternative software options are emerging as viable competitors to Adobe's suite, offering more affordable pricing and enhanced features. I have used Adobe’s software for nearly seven years for creative tasks, especially video and photo editing.
How I Use Google's Custom Language Model to Supercharge My Studies
Google's NotebookLM uses personal files to generate summaries for students' research, providing source links for efficient sourcing. NotebookLM synthesizes notes from various sources, helping students streamline research and discover overlaps or discrepancies. Despite limitations like sourcing restrictions and potential inaccuracies, NotebookLM is a helpful research and note-taking tool for scholars. Google has a little-known AI tool called NotebookLM that’s perfect for students.
Logitech’s Webcam Is Great, but It’s Too Pricey for Its Lack of Features
The Logitech MX Brio offers superb image quality, AI enhancements, and software customization for professionals and creators. Pricey at $200, it is ideal for creators needing video call quality and content creation features. Software tuning in Logi Options+ enhances the user experience while lacking premium options for creators. The Logitech MX Brio is a superb webcam offering 4K video, AI imaging enhancements, a 90-degree field of view, and thoughtful software customization options.
Insta360 X4 Review: The Best Consumer-Level 360 Camera
Exceptional 8K video quality, intuitive hardware, and AI editing features set the X4 apart from its predecessor. The camera offers fantastic build quality, numerous useful accessories, and a lengthy battery life. Low-light performance is somewhat lacking, and some accessories could be considered overpriced or confusing. The Insta360 X4 is a 360-degree action camera boasting 8K video, a plethora of useful accessories, and even more quality of life features to make this device simple to use well.
Possibly the Best Gaming Mouse, Probably Not Right for You
Lightweight build improves the mouse's feel and aids natural aiming. The Alienware's high 8KHz polling rate enhances input speed. The magnetic click mechanism is fast and satisfying. The Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Mouse is a high-tech, ultra-lightweight mouse designed by esports competitors, for esports competitors.
Alienware Pro Gaming Wireless Keyboard Review: Truly Superb
The Alienware Pro Gaming Wireless Keyboard boasts superb build quality, fantastic noise dampening, and an incredible gaming and typing experience. The device offers hot-swappable keys, high-quality red Alienware linear mechanical switches, and an ergonomic design focused on the needs of gamers. The keyboard features impressive RGB lighting, long battery life, and customizable options, but the software can be clunky, and the high price tag may not be justified for all users.
HyperX Vision S Webcam Review: An Awkward Middle Child
HyperX Vision S has sturdy build quality with an aluminum body & solid mount. Webcam has subpar, frustrating software & limited customization. Picture quality is good but can be finicky, especially in extreme light. The HyperX Vision S is a 4K, wide-angle webcam at a relatively competitive price point. It is also HyperX’s first foray into the webcam market. Overall, this webcam has quite good quality but numerous flaws, making for a confusing experience.
The Secret to MSP Success: Shift To A Sales Mindset
In a perfect world, every business would succeed and fail based solely on the skill set of those operating them. Yet the world isn’t perfect, is it? My favorite neighborhood Italian restaurant, for example, just shut down after only two years. How is it that some of the best tasting food I’ve ever had in my life wasn’t enough to bolster them to national fame, let alone allow them to simply keep their doors open?
I Wouldn’t Buy This as a Key Light, but It’s a Great Compact Desk Lamp
Highly flexible, bright & compact Hybrid between desk lamp & key light Simple controls, great for hybrid workers The Lume Cube Edge Light 2.0 is a highly flexible desk lamp which can additionally function as a key light for creators and video callers. With a compact design, flexible utility, and a simple user experience, it may be the perfect light for your desk.
JBL Quantum Stream Wireless Mic Review: Held Back by Simplicity
The JBL Quantum Stream Wireless mic features plug-and-play convenience. Impressive AI noise cancelation, but it can negatively impact sound quality. Not suitable for advanced users due to poor audio quality and lack of advanced features. The JBL Quantum Stream Wireless Mic is a simple wireless lavalier mic for creators with superb AI noise cancelation. However, this simplicity may be what holds it back for more advanced creators.
Nebula Mars 3 Air Review: An Outstanding Yet Mildly Confusing Portable Projector
Excellent video quality with Dolby Audio for immersive audio. Impressive performance, but battery life is limited to 2.5 hours for video playback. Compact design with convenient features, but lacks USB-C port and has mounting thread issues. The Nebula Mars 3 Air is an impressive portable projector with outstanding picture quality, a decent battery life for its size, and numerous quality of life features. However, sacrifices made in the name of portability may make buyers think twice.
ZAGG Pro Stylus 2 Review: Better Than the Apple Pencil?
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