How To's
How to set HSTS header from .htaccess only on HTTPS
My web application runs on a different number of hosts that I control. To prevent the need to change the Apache config of each vhost, I add most of the config using .htaccess files in my repo so the basic setup of each host is just a couple of lines. This also makes it possible to change the config upon deploying a new version. Currently the .htaccess (un)sets headers, does some rewrite magic and controls the caching of the UA.
I want to enable HSTS in the application using .htaccess. Just setting the header is easy:
Header always set Strict-Transport-Security "max-age=31536000"
But the spec clearly states: “An HSTS Host MUST NOT include the STS header field in HTTP responses conveyed over non-secure transport.”. So I don’t want to send the header when sending it over HTTP connections.
I tried to set the header using environment vars, but I got stuck there. Anyone that knows how to do that?
Answer
Apparently there is a HTTPS environment variable available that can be used easily. For people with the same question:
Header set Strict-Transport-Security "max-age=31536000" env=HTTPS
I used the following in the .htaccess to meet the secure deployment recommendations at https://hstspreload.org which will hardcode the domain into the Chrome browser. Be aware this will enforce HSTS across your subdomains, and that inclusion in the preload list cannot easily be undone, so rtfm.
<IfModule mod_headers.c>
Header set Strict-Transport-Security "max-age=31536000; includeSubDomains; preload" env=HTTPS
</IfModule>
You can use this and put it on your htaccess file to comply with https://hstspreload.org. put this in your .htaccess file.
RewriteCond %{HTTPS} !=on
RewriteRule ^(.*)$ https://%{HTTP_HOST}/$1 [R=301,L]
RewriteCond %{HTTP_HOST} !^www\.
RewriteRule ^(.*)$ https://www.%{HTTP_HOST}/$1 [R=301,L,E=HTTPS:1]
Header always set Strict-Transport-Security "max-age=31536000; includeSubDomains; preload" env=HTTPS
first, it will do redirection for non https to https. and redirect non www https to www https with HSTS header.

How To's
Difference between ira and 401k
Is an IRA and 401K the same thing?
While both plans provide income in retirement, each plan is administered under different rules. A 401K is a type of employer retirement account. An IRA is an individual retirement account.
What are the pros and cons of an IRA?
Roth IRA pros and cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Tax-free withdrawals No mandatory withdrawals No maximum age requirements for contributions Ways to get one even if you don’t qualify Limited penalties on early distributions | Contributions are taxed Limits based on income Low contribution limits Have to set it up yourself |
May 18, 2021
Can you lose money in an IRA?
An IRA is a type of tax-advantaged investment account that may help individuals plan and save for retirement. IRAs permit a wide range of investments, but—as with any volatile investment—individuals might lose money in an IRA, if their investments are dinged by market highs and lows.
What are the 3 types of IRA?
Types of IRAs include traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, SEP IRAs, and SIMPLE IRAs. If you withdraw money from an IRA before age 59½, you are usually subject to an early withdrawal penalty of 10%. There are income limitations for contributing to Roth IRAs and for deducting contributions to traditional IRAs.
Why Roth IRA is bad?
Roth IRAs offer several key benefits, including tax-free growth, tax-free withdrawals in retirement, and no required minimum distributions. An obvious disadvantage is that you’re contributing post-tax money, and that’s a bigger hit on your current income.
What is the 5 year rule for Roth IRA?
The first five–year rule states that you must wait five years after your first contribution to a Roth IRA to withdraw your earnings tax free. The five–year period starts on the first day of the tax year for which you made a contribution to any Roth IRA, not necessarily the one you’re withdrawing from.
Is a Roth IRA better than a 401k?
In many cases, a Roth IRA can be a better choice than a 401(k) retirement plan, as it offers a flexible investment vehicle with greater tax benefits—especially if you think you’ll be in a higher tax bracket later on. Invest in your 401(k) up to the matching limit, then fund a Roth up to the contribution limit.
Should I start a Roth IRA at age 60?
You’re never too old to fund a Roth IRA. Opening a later-in-life Roth IRA means you don’t have to worry about the early withdrawal penalty on earnings if you’re 59½. No matter when you open a Roth IRA, you have to wait five years to withdraw the earnings tax-free.
How much can a 60 year old put in an IRA?
How much can I contribute to an IRA? The annual contribution limit for 2019, 2020, and 2021 is $6,000, or $7,000 if you’re age 50 or older. The annual contribution limit for 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 is $5,500, or $6,500 if you’re age 50 or older.
How much can a 65 year old contribute to an IRA?
The most you can contribute to all of your traditional and Roth IRAs is the smaller of: For 2019, $6,000, or $7,000 if you’re age 50 or older by the end of the year; or. your taxable compensation for the year. For 2020, $6,000, or $7,000 if you’re age 50 or older by the end of the year; or.
Can a 70 year old open an IRA?
You can now make contributions to traditional IRAs beyond the previous age limit of 70½ years, thanks to the SECURE Act. There is no age restriction for opening a new, traditional IRA as long as you fund it via a rollover or transfer from an eligible retirement account.
At what age can you no longer put money in an IRA?
For 2020 and later, there is no age limit on making regular contributions to traditional or Roth IRAs. For 2019, if you‘re 70 ½ or older, you can‘t make a regular contribution to a traditional IRA.
At what age does RMD stop?
An RMD is the annual Required Minimum Distribution that you must start taking out of your retirement account after you reach age 72 (70½ if you turned 70½ before Jan 1, 2020). The amount is determined by the fair market value of your IRAs at the end of the previous year, factored by your age and life expectancy.
What is age limit for IRA?
SIMPLE IRAs: There is no age limit. And employers must continue to make matching or nonelective contributions to your plan regardless of your age. However, you still need to take RMDs at age 72 or 70 1/2, depending on your birthday.
At what age can you withdraw from 401k without paying taxes?
After you become 59 ½ years old, you can take your money out without needing to pay an early withdrawal penalty. You can choose a traditional or a Roth 401(k) plan. Traditional 401(k)s offer tax-deferred savings, but you‘ll still have to pay taxes when you take the money out.
What are the new IRA rules for 2020?
Beginning in the 2020 tax year, the new law will allow you to contribute to your traditional IRA in the year you turn 70½ and beyond, provided you have earned income. You still may not make 2019 (prior year) traditional IRA contributions if you are over 70½.
Can I contribute to an IRA if I have a 401k?
Short answer: Yes, you can contribute to both a 401(k) and an IRA, but if your income exceeds the IRS limits, you might lose out on one of the tax benefits of the traditional IRA. (Even if you’re ineligible to deduct your IRA contribution, you can still contribute to an IRA.
Is it better to have a 401k or IRA?
Both 401(k)s and IRAs have valuable tax benefits, and you can contribute to both at the same time. The main difference between 401(k)s and IRAs is that employers offer 401(k)s, but individuals open IRAs (using brokers or banks). IRAs typically offer more investments; 401(k)s allow higher annual contributions.
What are the advantages of rolling over a 401k to an IRA?
Key Takeaways. Some of the top reasons to roll over your 401(k) into an IRA are more investment choices, better communication, lower fees, and the potential to open a Roth account. Other benefits include cash incentives from brokers to open an IRA, fewer rules, and estate planning advantages.
Where should I put money after maxing out 401k and IRA?
Once you max out your 401(k), consider putting your leftover money into an IRA, HSA, annuity, or a taxable account.
How To's
How to cut off catalytic converter
What is the easiest way to remove a catalytic converter?
If your converter is welded into the rest of the exhaust system, rather than bolted in, the only way to remove it is to physically cut it out of the pipes it’s connected to. Most mechanics will use a sawzall or similar tool for this purpose.
Can I just cut off my catalytic converter?
Removing the catalytic converter is illegal. While replacing the stock catalytic converter with aftermarket units that rob less engine power but keep emissions within legal limits is fine, you should not simply remove it.
What happens if you cut the catalytic converter off?
Since the catalytic converter works to decrease the effect of the gases emerging from the engine, it can also muffle the sounds of the exhaust together with the vehicle’s muffler. With it removed, you will get to experience a low-pitched, louder, and a more distinctive exhaust sound.
What can I use to cut a catalytic converter?
Thieves can remove a catalytic converter quickly, often in less than two minutes, so theft can even occur in broad daylight. The only tools a thief needs are a wrench (for converters that are bolted on) or a reciprocating saw (for converters that are welded in). Some thieves bring a mechanic’s creeper.
What is the best tool for cutting off catalytic converters?
The CAT Cutter by Holmatro is the industry’s preferred catalytic removal tool. Thanks to its low weight, the Holmatro CAT Cutter is specifically designed and ideally suited for removing the majority of catalytic converters from recycled vehicles.
Can I replace my catalytic converter with a straight pipe?
Just remove the catalytic converter and replace it with a straight pipe, but it is illegal. You don’t, unless you’re willing to break the law. A catalytic converter is a primary part of your car’s smog control system, which cannot be legally removed.
Will removing the catalytic converter make exhaust louder?
Just like how the purpose of a muffler is to muffle the loud noise caused by the exhaust exiting your vehicle, the catalytic converter does the same thing. If you remove your converter, you’re giving your car a louder and more distinctive sound.
How much does it cost to replace catalytic converter with straight pipe?
Did You Know? Catalytic converter replacement isn’t cheap. For most vehicles, the average cost of a catalytic converter repair is between $945 and $2475 including parts and labor.
How much does a catalytic converter cost at Autozone?
For direct-fit options, a replacement can cost anywhere from $300.00 to $2,500.00, depending on the model, for just the cost of the part. You should also think about labor costs, which could cost between $70 and $130 an hour to install the converter.
What happens if I don’t replace my catalytic converter?
Because a failing catalytic converter can no longer properly convert the toxic fumes that flow through it into less harmful materials, one of the side effects that you are going to experience is the smell produced by the gases flowing through it. In particular the exhaust is going to have a sulphur type smell.
What cars have the most expensive catalytic converters for scrap?
Most Expensive Catalytic Converters
Cars And Pickups | Cost Of The Catalytic Converter |
---|---|
Ferrari F430 | $7,540 – $3,770 for each one |
Lamborghini Aventador | $6,240 – $3,120 for each one |
Dodge Ram 2500 | $3,460 |
Ford F250 | $2,804 |
•
Apr 29, 2021
Is catalytic converter worth replacing?
While most catalytic converters will last the life of the vehicle, there are exceptions. If coolant, oil, or unburned fuel gets into the catalytic converter; if it gets damaged from the outside; or even if it just wears out, your catalytic converter can go bad.
How long can I drive with bad catalytic converter?
A Catalytic Converter Can Be Driven Indefinitely
Driving with a bad catalytic converter is not too dangerous. If some small parts of your catalytic converter is plugged, you can still drive your car as usual.
How many miles should a catalytic converter last?
And when should you count on having to replace it? The truth is, on modern vehicles, the catalytic converter should last the life of the car or truck, given an “average” life of about 100,000 miles (160,934 kilometers).
What does a car sound like with no catalytic converter?
Loud Vehicle Noises and Missing Catalytic Converter
You will find that when driving without your catalytic converter, it will sound like your vehicle is roaring—especially when starting or giving it gas.
How long does it take to steal a catalytic converter?
Stealing a catalytic converter takes either a wrench or a cordless reciprocating saw. In some cases thieves are using mechanics dollies to slide under vehicles more easily. How Long it Takes to Steal One? About 3 minutes.
How much does a catalytic converter reduce sound?
The parts of an exhaust system in a vehicle perform separate tasks. A catalytic converter does not reduce the amount of noise made by an exhaust system and a resonator does not reduce the toxic emissions of a vehicle.
Will my car be loud without a catalytic converter?
Listen to the exhaust. The catalytic converter helps reduce the sound in a car, just like the muffler. A car without a catalytic converter will have a loud exhaust note.
What does a missing catalytic converter look like?
Symptoms of Converter Theft
You’ll notice a loud rumbling or roaring sound as soon as you turn on the engine if your catalytic converter is missing. You will see a gaping space in the middle of your exhaust if the converter is missing, and you will likely see signs of the piping being cut away.
Will removing catalytic converter hurt engine?
Removal of catalytic converters from cars allows exhaust gases to exit their engines much faster and at higher levels. o Since catalytic converter removal allows for exhaust gases to exit a car’s engine at increased speeds, engine back-pressure is reduced, which lessens engine strain.
How much is a stolen catalytic converter worth?
Websites indicate recyclers pay $50 to $200 to legally obtain a failed converter, or one from a junked vehicle. But industry sources say with the high metals prices, it’s possible for processors to make several hundred dollars per unit selling contents to the refinery.
What are the most stolen catalytic converter?
California, Texas, Minnesota, North Carolina and Illinois have accounted for the most catalytic converter thefts, in that order, from 2018 to 2020, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau. David Glawe, president of the NICB, calls catalytic converter thefts “an opportunistic crime.”
How To's
How to open tea ball
How do you use a tea ball?
How to Use a Tea Infuser Guide
- Clean your tea utensils and mug. Always use clean mugs and infusers.
- Choose the right water.
- Bring water to a boil.
- Preheat your mug or a teapot.
- Put the tea leaves into your infuser.
- Place your infuser into a mug or a teapot.
- Let it steep.
- Enjoy and re-steep.
How do you open a tea filter?
Add the spoon tea infuser into a cup filled with hot water. Make sure the punctured side rests inside your best tea cup. Do not stir the infuser; instead, allow it to rest in the water for a couple of minutes. This will allow water to seep into the spoon-like device and release the therapeutic goodness.
How do you make a tea ball infuser?
Brewing the tea
- Put the tin foil ball into your mug.
- Pour boiling water over it, letting the water soak through the strainer as much as possible.
- Let it brew for the correct amount of time for the tea you’re making. The packaging should give you some idea. Generally, loose teas take less time to brew than teas in a bag.
How does a tea infuser work?
How Does a Tea Infuser Work? As the tea leaves soak in the water, they mix their flavor with the water, brewing tea. Then that tea escapes the infuser through the same holes it used to enter, filling your mug and allowing more water without flavor to come into contact with the tea leaves.
Is Loose tea better than tea bags?
Ultimately, loose leaf tea blends tend to be of higher quality and stay fresher for longer as they are stored more robustly than tea bags. Nevertheless, tea bags are ideal for customers looking for a quick and convenient cup of tea.
What is the difference between a tea infuser and a tea strainer?
Infusers come in different shapes and sizes. Unlike tea strainers, tea infusers usually hold a certain amount of tea leaves, and release flavor from small holes. They are a good option for tea blends and flavored teas that you plan to steep only once and when you are making tea for one person only.
Are tea infusers safe?
Tea mugs are basically coffee mugs with built-in tea tools that make these all-in-one tools for simple brewing. The tea mugs are deep and feature a built-in infuser that sits right on the rim of the mug. Many of these travel infusers are also dishwasher safe, making clean-up a breeze.
Can you use tea bag in tea infuser?
By using the kettle’s insert you can put either teabags or loose leaf inside to brew a pot of tea. Yes, you can place the teabags directly in the kettle or in the provided infuser. Put them in the infuser or simply hang them in the pot.
How do you drink loose tea without a strainer?
3.Make Your Own Tea Bag
- Cut a piece of cheesecloth cloth (usually around 3 inches by 3 inches ) into a square piece.
- Scoop about a teaspoon ( or whatever amount you prefer )of loose lead tea inside it.
- Now pour hot water in a cup.
- Dip your tea bag inside it and enjoy your cup of tea.
Is it cheaper to buy loose tea?
Loose tea can be cheaper to purchase than tea bags, and this is largely due to how it is usually sold in bulk. Loose tea can be said to be more expensive to purchase per cup, so it’s clear that there are some important factors to consider when it comes to loose tea vs tea bags in terms of cost.
Does loose tea go bad?
Tea, like a lot of other drinks usually has a best before date, and not an expiration date or use by date. It is so because after some time it loses its flavour and aroma or may go completely stale. For example, loose leaf tea kept in containers will eventually lose its flavor, whereas dry leaves will last longer.
Can tea go bad and make you sick?
If you‘ll keep it in a dry place, it won’t go bad. The worst thing that is likely to happen is that it will lose some of its flavor and taste a bit stale. Drinking that tea won’t eliminate or even make you sick, you‘ll simply dislike it and probably choose to discard it.
How long does loose tea last for?
TEA, LOOSE, COMMERCIALLY PACKAGED — UNOPENED OR OPENED
Properly stored, loose tea will generally stay at best quality for about 18 to 24 months. To maximize the shelf life of loose tea, and to better retain flavor and potency, store in airtight containers.
CAN expired tea make you sick?
Can Expired Tea Make You Sick? Drinking expired tea has very little chance actually hurting you. The worst-case scenario is that you may be left with a really bad taste in your mouth or an upset stomach. Generally speaking, tea can probably last several decades if stored properly.
What happens if u drink expired tea?
If the tea has been stored correctly away from light and moisture then it will be OK to consume however not at its best. Tea past its due date may manifest as having a stale dull taste, with little life to the brew. If however there is any doubt and mould is suspected please discard immediately.
Can I use expired tea?
Can you drink expired tea? You can drink the expired tea, but its taste will not be the same as before its expiry date. Teabags will be sufficient for at least a couple of months in the kitchen, but they are still safe to drink even long after that. They may change color, odor, or flavor.
How old tea can you drink?
At what age can a child drink tea? What the expert says. Child nutritionist Sarah Almond Bushell tells us that from the age of 4 children can safely drink 1-2 cups of unsweetened weak tea brewed from tea bags each day. Although tea does contain caffeine, it’s in in lesser amounts and so is not as detrimental as coffee.
Can we drink tea after 2 hours?
First things first, do not reheat the tea if it has been left at room temperature for anywhere between 4 to 8 hours. If you forgot to have your tea for a maximum of 10 to 15 minutes, it is safe to drink. The food poisoning bacteria grow in brewed teas that are exposed to heat between 41 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can 13 year olds drink tea?
For kids and teens, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests caution. Adolescents ages 12 to 18 should cap daily caffeine intake at 100 mg (the equivalent of about one cup of coffee, one to two cups of tea, or two to three cans of soda). For children under 12, there’s no designated safe threshold.