25Jan 2026 by richard@baronsoftware.com
Borland’s Decline: Key Events Behind the Fall

Borland’s Decline: Key Events Behind the Fall

Idera, Microsoft Development, Rad Studio Delphi Development, Software development
Delphi Work Area Over the years since Phillipe Kahn moved Turbo Pascal to the forefront Delphi has had its struggles. The fall of Borland was driven by aggressive, ill-timed acquisitions. Intense competition with Microsoft contributed as well. Additionally, there was a lack of clear strategic direction. Here are the key steps and events that led to Borland decline: Aggressive Acquisitions (1987-1991): Borland expanded rapidly. It purchased Ansa Software (makers of Paradox) for $38 million in 1987. Later, it acquired Ashton-Tate, the maker of database management software. This acquisition cost $440 million in 1991. These acquisitions, particularly the costly buy of a struggling Ashton-Tate, put significant strain on the company's finances. The Spreadsheet Price War (1989-1994): Borland launched its Quattro Pro spreadsheet. This launch initiated a fierce price war against Lotus 1-2-3 and…
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10Jan 2026 by richard@baronsoftware.com

Malwarebytes reports Instagram security breach

Cybersecurity
This week, Malwarebytes discovered that hackers stole the sensitive information of 17.5 million Instagram accounts. This data includes usernames, physical addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses. Cybercriminals can abuse this information to impersonate trusted brands. They can trick users and steal their passwords. Critically, this data is already being offered on the dark web. Individual users are also receiving legitimate password reset notifications from Instagram. What to do:Be cautious of emails and messages that claim to come from Instagram. They are from malicious hackers. These hackers try to trick you into handing over your password. If you’re concerned, sign into your Instagram account and reset your password to a new, strong, unique password.Check if you were exposed by using Malwarebytes or Windows DefenderMalwarebytes vs Microsoft DefenderAfter testing both antivirus solutions,…
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31Oct 2025 by richard@baronsoftware.com
AOL Dial-Up Service Ends: A Nostalgic Farewell

AOL Dial-Up Service Ends: A Nostalgic Farewell

Rad Studio Delphi Development
2025 will mark the end of the longest dial-up service provided by AOL. original co-founder Steven Case said "Thanks for the memories RIP". AOL merged with Time Warner in 2000. The deal was widely deemed disastrous. AOL boasted about 30 million subscribers at the end of 2001. It was famous for luring customers by mailing them free trial CD discs. AOL dial-up provided millions the entrance path to the internet. The quenching sound from a modem allowed users to read and send emails. They chat online, join user groups, and view the outside world. AOL dial-up was launched more than 30 years ago. It was known for its chirpy whirring start-up sound. However, it has long since been replaced by faster alternatives. Fewer than 300,000 people in the US reported having…
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23Jul 2025 by richard@baronsoftware.com
Important Cybersecurity Tips to Help Protect Your Financial Accounts

Important Cybersecurity Tips to Help Protect Your Financial Accounts

Cybersecurity
Help Protect Your Finances with these 5 Quick cybersecurity Tips   Help stay ahead of cyber threats with these simple tips to help keep your financial information safeUse Strong Passwords Create unique passwords that are difficult to guess by using strong password suggestions or a password manager. Be sure to avoid birthdays or common phrases. Strong passwords serve as your first line of defense against unauthorized access. Watch for Scams Be cautious with emails, texts, and messages from unknown sources. No legit institution will never ask for your password or sensitive information via telephone, email, or text. Keep Devices UpdatedInstall software updates regularly to help stay protected from the latest security threats. Turn on auto-updates when possible to help provide continuous protection.Be Careful on Public Wi-FiAvoid sharing sensitive information on unsecured…
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20Jan 2025 by richard@baronsoftware.com

Why is there the hate for Microsoft Access and Excel ?

Rad Studio Delphi Development
During a recent question that was published by a developer. they were requesting how to convert and import Paradox tables into Microsoft Access. When all of a sudden there was a huge amount of hate towards Microsoft Access and Excel. The responses were overwhelming about the evils from these two products. There is some truth with limitation concerns using Access. Limitations on using Access It struggles with huge amounts of (2 gigabyte limit) and often slows down with if 10 plus users are added. The database can easily become corrupted and needs to be compacted/repaired. It only works on Window platforms and is not cheap. Does not work from a web site. Should you use MDB or ACCDB The main difference between Microsoft Access's mdb and accdb file formats is…
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