HowStuffWorks Newsletter
We look to the Internet for news, socializing, shopping, research and more. From HTML code to instant messaging, we'll break down what's really going on whenever you log on, send an e-mail, visit a popular Web site or post to a blog.
Topics to Explore:
There's a lot of bad news on the internet and social media. And maybe you can't stop looking at it. Why is that and what can you do about it?
Will Elon Musk's plans for Twitter make its misinformation problems worse, or will he implement real changes on the platform that will be for the better?
While creating online accounts, you're often given the option to sign up via your preexisting social media. But should you be worried about doing this?
By Talon Homer
Advertisement
It's part of an ominous trend of governments taking control of internet access and content to assert authoritarian control over what citizens see and hear, as well as their ability to organize through social media.
By Margaret Hu
It's time to get out your art supplies and your creative juices flowing, kids. Google wants to turn your original artwork into a Google Doodle!
Want to change your name on Facebook? It's easy to do in just a few simple steps.
By Jeremy Glass
A dropped or stalled WiFi connection that occurs repeatedly can really mess up your day. If this keeps happening to you, read on for some explanations and solutions.
By Alia Hoyt
Advertisement
"Metaverse" may be a term you're unfamiliar with, but the blend of real and virtual worlds is something we may all have to get used to.
By Nick Kelly
Section 230 is part of the Communications Decency Act that allows tech companies to moderate content on their services. U.S. lawmakers want to change the law, but disagree on how.
The perfect email deserves the perfect ending. But what is the right way to close an email? Well, that depends on who will be reading it.
Dark mode makes Googling at bedtime easier on the eyes, among other things. Here's how to enable it on all your devices.
Advertisement
In order to understand, and fix, your glitchy home WiFi, it's helpful to know what makes it work. So what's the difference between your modem and your router?
Facebook dark mode changes your screen to a black background with white lettering, which your eyes will thank you for and your battery won't hate either.
It's easy to take online comments out of context. Is it serious, or is it satire? That's where Poe's law (and a winking smiling emoji) comes into play.
Google is home to a ton of super fun hidden Easter eggs you can check out right from your browser. Go ahead, try a couple. You won't be disappointed.
Advertisement
Deleting a Gmail account is pretty easy. The hard part is making the decision and deciding what data to download.
By Jeremy Glass
Getting bored of your Twitter handle? You can change it in just a few quick steps.
Membership on the social media app Parler exploded just after the Nov. 3 general election was called for President-elect Joe Biden. But why? And how does Parler work?
By John Donovan
Are there legitimate reasons to seek out the dark web? Sure. We explain what's on the dark web, how to access it and why you'll want to proceed with a healthy dose of caution.
Advertisement
A new program from researchers at Carnegie Mellon can help your computer send more polite emails and messages. And they used a treasure trove of emails from the Enron lawsuit to do it.
Whether you want to break up with Facebook for good — or just take a breather — we've got step-by-step instructions so you can do either.
Though many text messenger apps are available for download, most Americans still prefer to send a text message via their mobile carrier. Why is that?
With the COVID-19 pandemic causing people to stay at home and use their devices way more than usual, some are wondering whether the internet could actually stop working from overuse.
Advertisement
Need ways to stay in touch with your family and friends while you're quarantined during the coronavirus pandemic? We've got several simple apps so you can reach out virtually.
By Wendy Bowman
Sometimes referred to as the "backstabbing carbon copy," the BCC feature in email allows a sender to copy someone on a message without the recipient knowing. But is there a way for the recipient to find out? And should you really use BCC?