If you are a Proton Mail user, you probably have learned that they will soon have a desktop app for their encrypted mail and calendar services. No longer will you have to go to their web site and once you gain access to their desktop client you will be able to compose email even when not connected to the internet. And, if you are not a Proton Mail user but have desired something more than Gmail, take a look at https://proton.me/mail.
While there, look at their free VPN service, no gimmicks for when you just need a simple VPN to get you safely through a hotel or airport or coffee shop Wi-Fi connection, https://protonvpn.com/free-vpn, it is limited to one device at a time, and pops you out onto the Internet in one of three countries, the U.S., Japan, and The Netherlands. Of course, you can pay more for accessing exit points in other countries, but just to feel safe, start with their basic free VPN, for when you might just need it.
If you have any way to plan for where you can place your Wi-Fi router, put in towards the center of your house or building, and, ideally, in the middle of that room on the ceiling. There are routers that support power over ethernet (PoE) so you won’t have to run but one cord, and many of the PoE enabled WiFi routers come with plastic wall or ceiling mounting plates. Just remember for the next time you upgrade; it may help get one more device off a shelf.
Sometimes, there are simple hacks to cut down on those dangerous impulse purchases. Turn off Amazon’s 1-click ordering, their patented method to suck you into quickly (without reflection) purchasing items. Look in your Account area, then dig around for 1-Click settings, its location various whether you are doing this on your phone or computer, and disable it everywhere (why not, right?)
Driving and listening to the radio is an iconic American pastime, so of course, you can do it on your computer. Nothing more to say than try it and probably one reason I regret not having a 2nd monitor now just to see where I am “driving.”
https://driveandlisten.herokuapp.com/
You may not think of Microsoft as a hardware company but, until recently, they sold some good ergonomic keyboards and mice, until they stopped last year. Onwards Brands has worked out licensing for Incase to bring back some of those Microsoft classics, like the Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard. They are hoping to start making these available sometime in the second quarter of this year.
Ambient noise in the background is very helpful for some. There is a single use website, https://ambiph.one/, that lets you pick and blend different sounds to create your own mixed soundscape. Others might prefer to rest their eyes, so see what happens to you at https://ncube.ndavd.com/ Play with the sliders and see if you can visually zone out.