Preston Gralla
Contributing Editor
Preston Gralla is a contributing editor for Computerworld, a blogger for ITworld, and the author of more than 45 books, including NOOK Tablet: The Missing Manual (O'Reilly 2012) and How the Internet Works (Que, 2006).
Cortana explained: Rocky past, promising future for Microsoft’s digital assistant
At first meant to compete with virtual assistants like Siri, Google Now, and Alexa, Cortana has been stripped of many functions and seemingly left to wither away. But its business-focused reboot may hold the key to long-term success.
Windows is in Moscow’s crosshairs, too
Before Russia invaded Ukraine this week, cyberattacks were already under way. Not surprisingly, Windows systems were a common target.
Slack vs. Teams: Which is best for your business?
We compare the top two collaboration platforms in six categories, from usability to enterprise management.
How to handle Windows 10 and 11 updates
You can significantly delay some Windows updates, temporarily pause others, control what time of day they’re installed, uninstall problematic updates, and more. Here’s how.
What’s new in Office 2021?
The new release brings the non-subscription version of Microsoft Office closer to what’s available with Microsoft 365 or Office 365 — but only partway.
Windows 11 in-depth review: Windows 10 gets a nip and tuck
Microsoft’s new OS gives Windows 10 a much-needed facelift, tighter security, and a better overall experience.
Gmail vs. Outlook: Which works better for business?
When it comes to email, calendar, and contacts, Microsoft Outlook has long ruled the roost, but Google Workspace’s combo of Gmail, Google Calendar, and Google Contacts is worth a second look.
4 quick tips for Cortana in Windows 10
Microsoft's digital assistant Cortana can make your life easier and more efficient — if you know how to take advantage of it.
Podcast: Windows 11 overview: Hardware requirements, security updates and upgrade confusion
Microsoft will launch Windows 11 on October 5, but not every PC will be eligible for an immediate upgrade. Rollout will last well into 2022 for machines that meet the necessary hardware requirements, and Windows 10 will be supported...
Cortana is AWOL in the war against COVID-19 disinfo
At a time when more people use voice assistants to retrieve the most basic information, Microsoft’s Cortana doesn’t provide even the basics about protecting against the coronavirus.
Outlook for Microsoft 365 cheat sheet: Ribbon quick reference
Our visual guide helps you find the most useful commands on the Ribbon in Outlook for Microsoft 365/Office 365 in Windows, along with keyboard shortcuts for performing each action.
Outlook for Microsoft 365 cheat sheet
Learn to use the best new features in Outlook for Microsoft 365/Office 365 in Windows.
8 great productivity tips for Chrome
Save time and get more done with these handy tricks for the Google Chrome browser.
Handy Excel keyboard shortcuts for Windows and Mac
Get work done more quickly by using keyboard shortcuts in the Microsoft Excel desktop app for Windows or macOS.
The Windows 11 rollout: Microsoft’s most-botched announcement ever
The 'Big Reveal' for Microsoft's new operating system wasn’t so big and revealed very little. And what it did reveal was often wrong. So what gives?
Outlook 2016 and 2019 cheat sheet: Ribbon quick reference
Our visual guide helps you find the most useful commands on the Ribbon in Outlook 2016 and 2019 for Windows, along with keyboard shortcuts for performing each action.
Outlook 2016 and 2019 cheat sheet
Are you getting the most from Outlook 2016 and 2019 for Windows? Learn about the key features in Microsoft’s email and calendaring client.
Handy Word keyboard shortcuts for Windows and Mac
You can accomplish a surprising amount without moving your hands off the keyboard in the Microsoft Word app for Windows or macOS.