Beneath the interface

Unpacking development, AI & cybersecurity

Tech Desk

We explore web performance, cybersecurity risks, and AI developments to explain how modern systems function. Focusing content on real-world architecture and edge cases, and providing clear, actionable insights that can put straight into practice.

Developer guides, real-world case studies and security advice covering software performance, AI and digital safety

DEVELOPMENT

Why smaller font files don't always mean faster page loads

Illustration of colourful letters and numbers moving through a server room.

A simulated mobile test showing how converting three custom fonts to WOFF2 reduced downloaded network data by 35.9% and improved font readiness times, while preserving typography and fallback readability.

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DEVELOPMENT

How to fix lag on a website with heavy animations

Illustration of an animated website on a monitor beside an empty desk chair.

How fixing layout shifts, pausing offscreen animations, and optimising typewriter effects reduced browser workload - and why deliberate animation delays still carry a web vitals cost.

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DEVELOPMENT

Why FastAPI requests still lead to stale terminals in React and Next

Developers reviewing an ordering interface on a tablet alongside application code on a laptop and monitor.

Why FastAPI requests could not keep an ordering terminal online, and how server-validated recovery preserved staff intent without silently reopening orders.

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CYBERSECURITY

How QR code scams exploit your trust

Illustration of a peeling QR code sticker revealing a red code underneath on a street fixture outside a restaurant at night.

Learn how QR code scams exploit trust in physical venues to target your data, and what simple checks you can do before hitting scan or pay.

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AI

Why AI can go rogue

Illustration of a humanoid robot surrounded by oversized robotic hands and flying instruction sheets in a computer workspace.

Learn how everyday language can influence AI decisions, and why vague instructions, conflicting directions, and clever user messages are all it takes to change how it behaves.

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