# Orthogonal Info > A developer blog by Max L — security engineer, homelab enthusiast, and AI practitioner. Deep dives into DevSecOps, Kubernetes security, AI-powered development, quantitative finance, and practical homelab infrastructure. Written from 12+ years of hands-on experience. ## About Orthogonal Info is a technical blog authored by Max L, a Security Engineer based in Seattle with 12+ years of hands-on experience. The blog covers the intersection of security engineering, cloud-native development, and emerging AI tools. Content focuses on practical, experience-driven insights rather than theoretical overviews. ## Topics - **Security Engineering**: Threat modeling, zero-trust architecture, container security, SAST/DAST, supply chain security - **DevSecOps**: CI/CD security, IaC scanning, Kubernetes hardening, secrets management, policy as code - **AI Development**: AI coding assistants, vibe coding risks, prompt engineering, AI productivity, LLM tooling - **Cloud & Kubernetes**: Azure, AWS, GKE, Helm charts, service mesh, observability, multi-cloud strategy - **Quantitative Finance**: Algorithmic trading, options pricing, market microstructure, Python for finance - **Homelab**: Self-hosted infrastructure, TrueNAS, Docker, networking, media servers, home automation ## Docs - [Full Content Index](https://orthogonal.info/llms-full-txt/): Complete article content for AI systems - [Sitemap](https://orthogonal.info/sitemap_index.xml): XML sitemap for all content ## Articles ### Azure & Cloud - [CosmosDB Performance: Ultimate Optimization Guide](https://orthogonal.info/maximizing-performance-achieve-lightning-fast-query-speeds-with-these-cosmosdb-optimization-strategies/): Maximize CosmosDB performance with partition key design, indexing policies, query optimization, and throughput tuning. Real-world tips from - [Microsoft Graph API with JavaScript: Full Guide](https://orthogonal.info/make-a-microsoft-graph-call-using-javascript/): Call Microsoft Graph API from JavaScript with authentication, token management, and paginated requests. Full examples for mail, calendar, and user - [Mastering Azure CLI: Complete Guide to VM Management](https://orthogonal.info/how-to-use-az-command-to-control-vms/): Master Azure CLI for virtual machine management. Covers VM creation, start/stop, resize, disk management, and automation scripts for cloud operations. - [Azure Service Bus with Python REST API (No SDK)](https://orthogonal.info/how-to-use-python-to-send-and-receive-an-azure-service-bus-notification-without-sdk/): Send and receive Azure Service Bus messages using Python REST API without the SDK. Covers SAS token generation, queue operations, and error handling. ### C# & .NET - [C# Performance: Using const and readonly Effectively](https://orthogonal.info/maximizing-performance-improve-performance-of-your-c-code-with-the-const-and-readonly-keywords/): Boost C# performance with const and readonly. Learn when to use each, how the compiler optimizes them, and real benchmarks showing the speed - [C# Performance Deep Dive: Value Types vs Reference Types](https://orthogonal.info/maximizing-performance-use-value-types-instead-of-reference-types-in-c-for-performance-improvement/): Understand JavaScript hoisting for var, let, const, and functions. Clear examples showing the temporal dead zone, common pitfalls, and best practices. - [C# Fixed Keyword: Memory Stability & Performance](https://orthogonal.info/maximizing-performance-use-the-fixed-keyword-to-prevent-the-garbage-collector-from-moving-managed-objects-in-memory-to-improve-perf/): Use the C# fixed keyword to pin objects in memory and avoid GC relocation. Learn unsafe pointer access, performance gains, and when fixed is - [C# Performance: 5 Strategies to Optimize Your Code](https://orthogonal.info/5-simple-checklists-to-improve-c-code-performance/): Improve C# application performance with 5 proven strategies. Covers async/await, Span, pooling, LINQ optimization, and benchmarking with - [LINQ Lazy Evaluation: Tips, Pitfalls & Practices](https://orthogonal.info/laziness-in-linq-select/): Avoid LINQ lazy evaluation pitfalls in C#. Learn deferred execution, multiple enumeration bugs, materialization strategies, and debugging best - [C# ConcurrentDictionary: Performance Best Practices](https://orthogonal.info/simple-tips-to-improve-c-concurrentdictionary-performance/): Optimize C# ConcurrentDictionary for high-throughput scenarios. Covers partitioning, lock contention, sizing strategies, and thread-safe update ### Deep Dives - [Pre-IPO Intelligence API: Real-Time SEC Filings, SPACs & Lockup Data for Developers](https://orthogonal.info/pre-ipo-intelligence-api-real-time-sec-filings-spacs-lockup-data-for-developers/): If you’re building fintech applications, trading bots, or investment research tools, you know the pain: pre-IPO data is fragmented across dozens of - [CVE-2025-53521: F5 BIG-IP APM RCE — CISA Deadline Is March 30](https://orthogonal.info/f5-big-ip-apm-cve-2025-53521-rce-cisa-kev-deadline/): CVE-2025-53521 was reclassified from DoS to RCE with active exploitation confirmed. F5 BIG-IP APM vulnerability added to CISA KEV with March 30 - [Self-Hosted GitOps Pipeline: Gitea + ArgoCD Guide](https://orthogonal.info/build-a-self-hosted-gitops-pipeline-with-gitea-argocd-and-kubernetes-at-home/): Build a self-hosted GitOps pipeline with Gitea and ArgoCD. Step-by-step guide covering Git setup, CI/CD integration, secrets, and automated - [Why AI Makes Architecture the Only Skill That Matters](https://orthogonal.info/ai-plan-driven-development-architecture-only-skill-that-matters/): AI writes code faster than ever, but architecture skills matter more. Why system design is the moat that separates senior engineers from the rest. - [Vibe Coding Is a Security Nightmare: How to Fix It](https://orthogonal.info/vibe-coding-security-nightmare-how-to-survive/): AI-generated code is a security minefield. Learn how to audit vibe-coded PRs, catch hidden vulnerabilities, and build secure code review workflows. - [From Layoff to Launch: Start a Startup After Setbacks](https://orthogonal.info/from-layoff-to-startup-turning-a-difficult-situation-into-a-positive-opportunity/): Turned a layoff into a startup launch. Practical advice on validating ideas, building MVPs, finding co-founders, and funding your venture after job - [Advanced CSS Optimization for Peak Web Performance](https://orthogonal.info/maximizing-performance-expert-tips-for-optimizing-your-css/): Boost website speed with advanced CSS optimization. Covers critical CSS extraction, unused style removal, selector performance, and rendering - [Mastering MySQL Performance: Expert Optimization Techniques](https://orthogonal.info/maximizing-performance-boost-your-mysql-performance-with-these-proven-optimization-techniques/): Optimize SQL Server queries with execution plan analysis, index tuning, query rewriting, and parameter sniffing fixes. Practical tips for DBAs and - [MySQL 8 vs 7: Key Upgrades and Migration Tips](https://orthogonal.info/list-of-differences-between-mysql-8-and-mysql-7/): Compare MySQL 8 and MySQL 7 features including CTEs, window functions, JSON improvements, and default authentication changes. Plus migration tips. - [Anker 747 GaNPrime Charger: Multi-Device Review](https://orthogonal.info/weeks-after-using-anker-747-charger-ganprime/): In-depth review of the Anker 747 GaNPrime 150W charger. Covers multi-device charging, port allocation, travel-friendliness, and real-world ### DevOps - [Mastering Kubernetes Security: Network Policies &](https://orthogonal.info/mastering-kubernetes-security-network-policies-service-mesh/): Explore production-proven strategies for securing Kubernetes with network policies and service mesh, focusing on a security-first approach to - [Securing Kubernetes Supply Chains with SBOM & Sigstore](https://orthogonal.info/securing-kubernetes-supply-chains-with-sbom-sigstore/): Secure your Kubernetes supply chain with SBOMs and Sigstore. Production-proven approach to container image signing, verification, and DevSecOps - [Kubernetes Secrets Management: A Security-First Guide](https://orthogonal.info/kubernetes-secrets-management-a-security-first-guide/): Most Kubernetes secrets are dangerously insecure by default. Learn sealed secrets, external vaults, RBAC policies, and encryption-at-rest best - [Kubernetes Security Checklist for Production (2026)](https://orthogonal.info/kubernetes-security-checklist-for-production-2026/): A comprehensive Kubernetes security checklist for production in 2026. Covers RBAC, network policies, image scanning, runtime security, and audit - [GitOps Security Patterns for Kubernetes](https://orthogonal.info/gitops-security-patterns-for-kubernetes/): Production-proven GitOps security patterns for Kubernetes. Covers sealed secrets, policy-as-code, drift detection, and secure ArgoCD configurations. - [Secure C# ConcurrentDictionary for Production](https://orthogonal.info/secure-c-concurrentdictionary-for-production/): Production-ready C# ConcurrentDictionary with a security-first approach. Covers thread safety, DoS-resistant patterns, and DevSecOps best practices. - [Boost C# ConcurrentDictionary Performance in Kubernetes](https://orthogonal.info/secure-c-concurrent-dictionary-for-kubernetes/): Learn how to optimize C# ConcurrentDictionary for high performance in Kubernetes. Explore thread safety, scalability, and best practices for - [Scaling GitOps Securely: Kubernetes Best Practices](https://orthogonal.info/gitops-security-patterns-kubernetes-scale/): Learn best practices for scaling GitOps securely in Kubernetes. Covers RBAC, secrets management, policy enforcement, and multi-cluster security - [Kubernetes Pod Security Standards for Production](https://orthogonal.info/kubernetes-pod-security-standards-for-production/): Implement Kubernetes Pod Security Standards for production workloads. Learn restricted, baseline, and privileged profiles with real-world YAML - [Kubernetes Autoscaling: Master HPA and VPA](https://orthogonal.info/kubernetes-autoscaling-made-easy-master-hpa-and-vpa-for-devops-success/): Master Kubernetes Horizontal and Vertical Pod Autoscalers. Learn HPA and VPA configuration, metrics tuning, and scaling strategies for production. - [Docker Memory Management: Prevent OOM Errors](https://orthogonal.info/docker-memory-management-prevent-container-oom-errors-and-optimize-resource-limits/): Prevent Docker container OOM kills by configuring memory limits correctly. Learn cgroup settings, monitoring tools, and resource optimization - [Docker Memory Leaks: How to Diagnose and Prevent](https://orthogonal.info/how-to-fix-docker-memory-leaks-master-cgroups-and-container-memory-management/): Diagnose and prevent Docker memory leaks with practical techniques. Covers container profiling, cgroup limits, and memory monitoring best practices. ### Finance & Trading - [Track Pre-IPO Valuations: SpaceX, OpenAI & More](https://orthogonal.info/how-to-track-pre-ipo-valuations-for-spacex-openai-and-anthropic-with-a-free-api/): Track implied valuations for SpaceX ($2T), OpenAI ($1.3T), and 19 more pre-IPO tech companies using a free API that analyzes publicly traded - [5 Best Finance APIs for Tracking Pre-IPO Valuations in 2026](https://orthogonal.info/5-best-finance-apis-for-tracking-pre-ipo-valuations-in-2026/): Compare the top APIs for tracking private company valuations, including SpaceX, OpenAI, and Anthropic. Free and paid options for fintech developers. - [AI Market Signals: What Stock Trends Say This Week](https://orthogonal.info/this-week-in-markets-what-ai-research-tells-us-about-the-war-crisis-rotation/): Our AI narrative detection shifted from MIXED to WAR_CRISIS this week. Oil surged 59%, geopolitical risk hit 91.2/100, and the rotation signals are - [Engineer’s Guide to RSI, Ichimoku, Stochastic Indicators](https://orthogonal.info/engineers-guide-to-rsi-ichimoku-stochastic-indicators/): Deep dive into RSI, Ichimoku, and Stochastic indicators with Python code. Covers the math, signal generation, and backtesting for quantitative - [Risk Management & Position Sizing for Traders](https://orthogonal.info/risk-management-position-sizing-an-engineers-guide-to-trading/): Master risk management and position sizing to protect your trading capital. Covers Kelly criterion, volatility-based sizing, and max drawdown - [Algorithmic Trading: A Practical Guide for Engineers](https://orthogonal.info/algorithmic-trading-basics-for-engineers/): A practical guide to algorithmic trading for software engineers. Covers backtesting, strategy design, risk management, and live deployment with - [Advanced Options Strategies for Engineers: A Practical Guide](https://orthogonal.info/mastering-options-strategies-a-math-driven-approach/): Advanced options strategies explained for engineers. Covers spreads, Greeks, volatility trading, hedging techniques, and Python implementation - [Stochastic Oscillator in JavaScript for Scalping](https://orthogonal.info/javascript-finance-stochastic-oscillator-for-scalping-buy-sell/): Implement the Stochastic Oscillator in JavaScript for crypto and stock scalping. Covers %K, %D calculation, signal generation, and backtesting logic. - [Bull Call & Bear Put Spreads: JavaScript Calculator](https://orthogonal.info/javascript-finance-calculates-the-payouts-of-a-bull-call-spread-and-a-bear-put-spread-option-trading-strategies/): Build a bull call and bear put spread calculator in JavaScript. Computes max profit, max loss, breakeven points, and visualizes the payoff diagram. - [Option Pricing in JS: Forward Implied Volatility](https://orthogonal.info/javascript-finance-calculate-the-theoretical-price-of-an-option-using-the-forward-implied-volatility/): Price options using forward implied volatility in JavaScript. Covers term structure interpolation, vol surface modeling, and Black-Scholes - [Iron Butterfly Options: Profit Probability in JS](https://orthogonal.info/javascript-finance-calculate-the-profit-probability-of-an-iron-butterfly-option-strategy/): Calculate iron butterfly profit probability with JavaScript. Covers strike selection, max profit/loss, breakeven points, and Monte Carlo simulation. - [Iron Condor Profit & Probability with JavaScript](https://orthogonal.info/javascript-finance-profit-probability-calculator-for-iron-condor/): Calculate iron condor profit and probability with JavaScript. Covers strike selection, max gain/loss, breakeven points, and risk-reward visualization. - [Linear Regression: A Beginner-Friendly Guide](https://orthogonal.info/what-is-a-linear-regression/): Learn linear regression from scratch with clear math, Python examples, and real datasets. Perfect for beginners entering machine learning and data - [Python Finance: Option In-the-Money Probability](https://orthogonal.info/python-finance-calculate-in-the-money-probability-for-an-option/): Calculate the probability of an option finishing in the money using Python. Covers Black-Scholes, Monte Carlo simulation, and real market data - [Monte Carlo Simulations in JS for Finance](https://orthogonal.info/javascript-finance-monte-carlo-simulation/): Run Monte Carlo simulations in JavaScript for stock price forecasting and portfolio risk analysis. Covers random walks, confidence intervals, and - [Ichimoku Cloud in JavaScript: A Trader’s Guide](https://orthogonal.info/javascript-finance-calculate-ichimoku-value/): Build an Ichimoku Cloud indicator in JavaScript for trading. Covers Tenkan, Kijun, Senkou Span calculation, signal interpretation, and chart - [Mastering RSI Calculation in JavaScript for Smarter Trading](https://orthogonal.info/javascript-finance-calculate-rsi-value/): Calculate the Relative Strength Index (RSI) in JavaScript from scratch. Covers the math, smoothing methods, signal interpretation, and trading ### Homelab - [Backup & Recovery: Enterprise Security for Homelabs](https://orthogonal.info/backup-recovery-enterprise-security-for-homelabs/): Apply enterprise-grade backup and disaster recovery to your homelab. Covers 3-2-1 strategy, automated snapshots, off-site replication, and restore - [Secure Remote Access for Your Homelab](https://orthogonal.info/secure-remote-access-for-your-homelab/): Set up secure remote access for your homelab using enterprise-grade practices. Covers VPN, SSH hardening, reverse proxies, and zero trust - [Home Network Segmentation with OPNsense](https://orthogonal.info/home-network-segmentation-with-opnsense/): Segment your home network with OPNsense for enterprise-grade security. Covers VLANs, firewall rules, IoT isolation, and inter-zone traffic policies. - [Home Network Segmentation with OPNsense: A Complete Guide](https://orthogonal.info/home-network-segmentation-with-opnsense-a-complete-guide/): Segment your home network with OPNsense for better security. Complete guide to VLANs, firewall rules, IoT isolation, and guest network configuration. - [Set Up Elasticsearch and Kibana on CentOS 7](https://orthogonal.info/setup-latest-elastic-search-and-kibana-on-centos7-in-april-2022/): Install and configure Elasticsearch and Kibana on CentOS 7. Covers Java setup, cluster configuration, index management, and Kibana dashboard basics. - [Expert Guide: Migrating ZVols and Datasets Between ZFS Pools](https://orthogonal.info/how-to-move-zvol-or-dataset-to-another-pool/): Move ZFS ZVols and datasets between pools safely. Step-by-step guide covering snapshots, zfs send/receive, verification, and avoiding common data - [Setup k3s on CentOS 7: Easy Tutorial for Beginners](https://orthogonal.info/setup-k3s-on-centos-7/): Learn how to setup k3s on CentOS 7 with this step-by-step tutorial. Perfect for beginners looking for a lightweight Kubernetes solution. - [Configure a Used Aruba S2500 Switch for Home Use](https://orthogonal.info/setup-a-used-aruba-s2500-switch-and-remove-stacking-ports/): Set up a used Aruba S2500 enterprise switch for home networking. Covers factory reset, stacking port removal, VLAN config, and PoE optimization tips. ### JavaScript - [JavaScript getDay Method: Complete Developer Guide](https://orthogonal.info/the-hidden-complexities-of-the-getday-method-in-javascript/): Master JavaScript’s getDay() method for date handling. Covers weekday mapping, localization, common pitfalls, and practical examples for web - [JavaScript Optimization: Tips to Boost Performance](https://orthogonal.info/maximizing-performance-expert-tips-for-optimizing-your-javascripts/): Optimize JavaScript performance with practical tips. Covers DOM manipulation, event delegation, lazy loading, Web Workers, and memory leak prevention. - [Text-to-Speech in JavaScript: A Complete Guide](https://orthogonal.info/how-to-implement-text-to-speech-in-javascript/): Add text-to-speech to your web app using the JavaScript Speech Synthesis API. Covers voice selection, rate control, events, and cross-browser support. - [Mastering SHA-256 Hashing in JavaScript Without Libraries](https://orthogonal.info/calculate-the-sha-256-hash-of-a-string-in-javascript-without-library/): Compute SHA-256 hashes in JavaScript without external libraries. Learn the Web Crypto API, ArrayBuffer handling, and when to use native browser - [Async to Promise Conversion in JavaScript Guide](https://orthogonal.info/how-to-convert-an-async-function-to-promise-in-javascript/): Convert async/await functions to Promises in JavaScript. Covers patterns, error handling, chaining, and when to use each approach in real-world ### Python - [Python Optimization: Proven Tips for Performance](https://orthogonal.info/maximizing-performance-expert-tips-for-optimizing-your-python/): Speed up Python code with proven optimization techniques. Covers profiling, algorithmic improvements, caching, NumPy vectorization, and memory - [Install Python pip on CentOS Core Enterprise](https://orthogonal.info/how-to-install-python-pip-on-centoos-core-enterprise/): Step-by-step guide to install Python pip on CentOS Core Enterprise. Covers EPEL setup, Python version management, virtualenv, and troubleshooting - [How to Make HTTP Requests Through Tor with Python](https://orthogonal.info/how-to-make-requests-via-tor-in-python/): Route HTTP requests through the Tor network using Python. Covers SOCKS proxy setup, session handling, circuit rotation, and privacy best practices. ### Quick Wins - [Launch Edge with Specific Profiles via Command Line](https://orthogonal.info/how-to-start-edge-browser-with-work-profile-in-command-line/): Launch Microsoft Edge with a specific browser profile from the command line. Useful for automation, testing, and managing multi-account workflows. - [Restore Full Right-Click Menu in Windows 11](https://orthogonal.info/how-to-always-show-full-right-click-menu-in-windows-11/): Bring back the classic right-click context menu in Windows 11 with a simple registry tweak. No third-party software needed — works on all editions. - [How to Extract and Work with HTML Using the Browser Console](https://orthogonal.info/how-to-get-html-code-from-console-of-a-website/): Extract and inspect HTML source code using your browser’s developer console. Learn DOM traversal, element selection, and live editing for web - [Mastering `scp`: Securely Transfer Files Like a Pro](https://orthogonal.info/how-to-move-files-around-with-scp/): Master the scp command for secure file transfers between servers. Covers syntax, recursive copy, port configuration, key-based auth, and common - [Remote Command Execution with SSH: Complete Guide](https://orthogonal.info/how-to-execute-a-commands-or-a-script-via-ssh/): Execute commands and scripts on remote servers via SSH. Covers single commands, heredoc scripts, key-based auth, error handling, and automation tips. ### Security - [Zero Trust for Developers: Simplifying Security](https://orthogonal.info/zero-trust-for-developers-simplifying-security/): Learn how to implement Zero Trust principles in a way that empowers developers to build secure systems without relying solely on security teams. - [CVE-2026-20131: Cisco FMC Zero-Day Exploited by Ransomware](https://orthogonal.info/interlock-ransomware-cisco-fmc-zero-day-cve-2026-20131/): Interlock ransomware exploits CVE-2026-20131, a CVSS 10.0 Cisco FMC zero-day enabling root access via insecure deserialization. Learn how to defend - [Penetration Testing Basics for Developers](https://orthogonal.info/penetration-testing-basics-for-developers/): Learn penetration testing basics as a developer. Integrate security testing into your workflow with practical techniques for finding vulnerabilities - [TeamPCP Supply Chain Attacks on Trivy, KICS & LiteLLM](https://orthogonal.info/teampcp-supply-chain-attacks-on-trivy-kics-and-litellm-full-timeline-and-how-to-protect-your-ci-cd-pipeline/): TeamPCP poisoned Trivy, KICS, and LiteLLM via supply chain attacks. Full timeline, affected versions, and steps to protect your CI/CD pipeline from - [Open Source Security Monitoring for Developers](https://orthogonal.info/open-source-security-monitoring-for-developers/): Discover open source security monitoring tools for developers. Bridge the gap between engineering and security with practical, self-hosted solutions. - [Secure Coding Patterns for Every Developer](https://orthogonal.info/secure-coding-patterns-for-every-developer/): Practical secure coding patterns every developer should know. Covers input validation, auth flows, secrets handling, and defense-in-depth strategies. - [Threat Modeling Made Simple for Developers](https://orthogonal.info/threat-modeling-made-simple-for-developers/): Learn threat modeling as a developer with practical, simplified techniques. Covers STRIDE, data flow diagrams, risk scoring, and actionable - [Mastering Secure Coding: Practical Techniques for Developers](https://orthogonal.info/secure-coding-made-simple-for-developers/): Master secure coding techniques with practical examples. Covers input validation, authentication, secrets management, and common vulnerability - [Mastering Incident Response Playbooks for Developers](https://orthogonal.info/incident-response-playbooks-for-developers/): Design effective incident response playbooks for developer teams. Covers triage workflows, communication templates, escalation paths, and - [Zero Trust for Developers: Secure Systems by Design](https://orthogonal.info/zero-trust-for-developers-a-practical-guide/): Implement Zero Trust architecture as a developer. Covers identity verification, micro-segmentation, least privilege, and practical integration - [Securing PHP File Uploads: .htaccess Exploits Fixed](https://orthogonal.info/using-htaccess-file-to-compromise-loose-ext-control-upload-in-php/): Prevent .htaccess exploits in PHP file uploads. Learn validation techniques, MIME checking, directory permissions, and server-side security best ### Tools & Setup - [Parse JPEG EXIF Data in Browser With Zero Dependencies](https://orthogonal.info/parse-exif-jpeg-javascript-browser-zero-dependencies/): Learn how JPEG EXIF parsing actually works at the binary level. Build a metadata reader in pure JavaScript — no libraries, no server, no uploads. - [I Benchmarked 5 Image Compressors With the Same 10 Photos](https://orthogonal.info/i-benchmarked-5-image-compressors-with-the-same-10-photos-here-are-the-real-numbers/): I tested TinyPNG, Squoosh, Compressor.io, iLoveIMG, and QuickShrink with 10 identical photos. Here are the real compression ratios, speeds, and - [Pomodoro Technique Works Better With Gamified Timers](https://orthogonal.info/pomodoro-technique-streaks-gamification/): The Pomodoro Technique boosts focus — but only with the right timer. See how gamification transforms a simple 25-minute timer into a productivity - [What Is EXIF Data? Remove It Before Sharing Photos](https://orthogonal.info/what-is-exif-data-remove-before-sharing/): EXIF data in your photos reveals GPS location, camera model, and timestamps. Learn what it is, why it matters, and how to strip it before sharing - [5 Free Browser Tools That Replace Desktop Apps](https://orthogonal.info/free-browser-tools-replace-desktop-apps/): Replace Photoshop, Notepad++, and desktop utilities with 5 free browser tools. No downloads, no sign-ups — just open a tab and start working right - [How to Remove GPS Location from Photos Before Sharing Online](https://orthogonal.info/remove-gps-location-from-photos/): Your phone embeds GPS coordinates in every photo. Learn how to remove location metadata before sharing images online to protect your privacy for free. - [Compress Images Without Losing Quality (Free Tool)](https://orthogonal.info/compress-images-without-losing-quality/): Compress JPEG and PNG images up to 80% smaller without visible quality loss using free browser tools. No uploads to servers — your files stay 100% - [NoiseLog: A Sound Meter App for Noisy Neighbors](https://orthogonal.info/noiselog-sound-meter/): NoiseLog is a browser-based sound meter I built to track noisy neighbors. Uses the Web Audio API with real-time dB logging and zero data collection. - [FocusForge: How Gamification Tricked Me Into Deep Focus](https://orthogonal.info/focusforge-focus-timer/): FocusForge adds XP, levels, and streaks to the Pomodoro Technique. How gamification turned a simple timer into my most effective deep focus tool. - [TypeFast: Snippet Manager Without Electron Bloat](https://orthogonal.info/typefast-snippet-manager/): TypeFast is a lightweight snippet manager for developers who hate bloated Electron apps. Keyboard-driven, instant search, and under 5 MB total size. - [PixelStrip: Stop Photos Broadcasting Your Location](https://orthogonal.info/pixelstrip-exif-remover/): PixelStrip removes EXIF metadata from photos before sharing. Strips GPS, camera info, and timestamps entirely in your browser — nothing gets uploaded. - [QuickShrink: Browser Image Compressor, No Uploads](https://orthogonal.info/quickshrink-image-compressor/): I built QuickShrink to compress images without uploading them. Runs 100% in your browser using canvas APIs — fast, private, and free to use. - [Claude Code Review: My Honest Take After 3 Months](https://orthogonal.info/claude-code-changed-how-i-ship-code-heres-my-honest-take-after-3-months/): Honest review of Claude Code after 3 months of daily use. Covers real productivity gains, limitations, and how it compares to Copilot and Cursor. - [Solving Homelab Bottlenecks: Why Upgrading to a 2.5G](https://orthogonal.info/i-spent-800-on-2-5g-gear-but-forgot-one-50-component/): Upgrading to 2.5GbE revealed hidden homelab bottlenecks. Learn how one overlooked component can throttle your entire network and how to diagnose it. - [Homelab Hardware Guide: Build Your Dream Setup 2026](https://orthogonal.info/ultimate-homelab-hardware-guide-self-hosting-made-simple-in-2026/): Build your dream homelab in 2026 with this definitive hardware guide. Covers servers, switches, NAS, UPS, and networking gear for self-hosting - [Developer Hardware Guide 2026: Your Perfect Setup](https://orthogonal.info/essential-development-hardware-for-2026-complete-setup-guide/): The ultimate 2026 developer hardware guide. Find the best laptops, monitors, keyboards, and peripherals to build a productive development environment. ### Uncategorized - [HashForge: Privacy-First Hash Generator for All Algos](https://orthogonal.info/hashforge-privacy-first-hash-generator/): Meet HashForge — a privacy-first hash generator showing MD5, SHA-256, and more simultaneously. Runs entirely in your browser with zero data - [JSON Forge: Privacy-First JSON Formatter in Your Browser](https://orthogonal.info/json-forge-privacy-first-json-formatter/): I built JSON Forge — a blazing fast, privacy-first JSON formatter that runs 100% in your browser. Zero dependencies, dark mode, PWA, keyboard-driven. ### War Stories - [How to Protect Your Homelab from Dust: A Practical Guide](https://orthogonal.info/how-dust-almost-killed-my-homelab/): Protect your homelab hardware from dust damage with practical filtration, airflow management, and maintenance tips. Prevent overheating and extend ## Contact - Website: https://orthogonal.info - Author: Max L