Reference: Type of Internet Access (updated)

Have you ever considered all the different type of Internet access we have these days. Most people might only think of cable, DSL, or dial-up as their only choices. Although, in reality there are several different types of access available all with very different advantages and disadvantages.

This list was created to be the most complete reference to the different types of Internet access available. It also provides a brief summary of each technology:

• Dial-up: One of the oldest forms of Internet access, and is mostly used in areas that don't offer any other connection types. The maximum connection speed of this service is 56Kbps (and that's only theoretical). Dial-up has been slowly losing market share for years to faster technologies.
  
• Pros: Inexpensive, and available more places then almost any other type of Internet access. All you need is a phone, modem, and an ISP account.
  
• Cons: Very slow and unreliable when compared to other 'always on' Internet connections.
  
• ISDN: One of the oldest form of high-speed Internet access, generally has a maximum bandwidth throughput of about 128Kbps. It is still available in some areas. It also used to be expensive, and difficult to setup, I am not sure if they have really improved this that much.
  
• Pros: Its twice as fast as dial-up.
  
• Cons: Limited availability, and speed.
  
• Cable/DSL: Are the most popular forms of high-speed 'always on' Internet access available. It is available in several different speeds (1-6Mbps, and faster). These technologies are widely available, and the coverage is constantly being expanded. Although, its not available in all areas, contact your phone/cable provider to see if this is an option for you.
• Pros: Fast connections, and different download speeds are available for different fees.
  
• Cons: Generally requires you to get some form of extra cable/phone service when you sign up for it.
  
• Cellular: Cellular providers such Sprint and Verizon offer high-speed Internet access using your cell phone via technologies like EV-DO networking. The speeds (from about 300kbps - 1.2Mbps) will vary greatly from location-to-location, and provider-to-provider. Its a great option to have if you're on the road in the middle of nowhere and need Internet access.
  
• Pros: Its available anywhere you can get a cellular signal for that provider.
• Cons: Can be expensive, and the speeds are limited.
• Update: Some new laptops are now coming with a new ExpressCard slot, which offers fast cellular connections while on the road. Although the service is not cheap, its $59.99/month if you have a Verizon voice plan, or $79.99/month if you don't.
  
• Wireless: This option is available in some metropolitan and rural areas. It can offer an alternative the cable, DSL or dial-up. Generally it doesn't require you to purchase extra services that you may not need. Intel is trying to push their technology called WiMAX into this area.
  
• Pros: Fast connections, and different download speeds are available.
  
• Cons: Coverage is limited. Prices and speeds will also vary widely from ISP to ISP.
  
• Satellite: For people who want high-speed Internet access, but no other option is available. This service is generally available just about anywhere you have unobstructed line-sight access to the satellite.
• Pros: Available almost anywhere, and different download speeds are available for different costs.
• Cons: All satellite connections are high latency, which means the first few seconds of the connection are slow. This is because of physics and not technology, energy can only travel so fast. The equipment is also expensive.
  
• FiOS: Verizon is offering FiOS (Fiber Optic Services) which is fiber to the home. This is one of the fastest Internet connections available for the home or small office, that is also reasonably priced. Cable, and DSL have current maximum speeds of about 1-6Mbps, while FiOS offers speeds up to 30Mbps.
• Pros: One of the fastest ways to connect to the Internet.
• Cons: Very limited availability for now.
  
• Dedicated Circuit: This is an option used by most medium and large size businesses. The speeds that are available are amazing, but the prices that you pay for this service and the equipment are equally amazing. For more information contact your phone company or ISP.
  
• Pros: Just about any speed is available to you, with very reliable access.
  
• Cons: Very expensive, and requires equally expensive equipment.
  

This is kind of an honorable mention area. These technologies are what I would classify as 'experimental', but could one day be another type of Internet access that is available to you.

• Power line: Basically your power provider would also be your ISP, and your Internet connectivity is over your existing power lines in your house. The technology only appears to be available in Europe for right now.
  
• Gas line: Basically your gas provider would also be your ISP, and your Internet connectivity is over your existing gas line in your house. Currently there is no announcement when the technology will be available.
  

Notes:

• All high-speed ISPs require you to have some type of proprietary networking equipment to use their service. Although, some ISPs will give you the equipment as part of the service and others will rent it to you.
• All the speeds listed in the article reference the download speeds and not the upload speeds. Upload speeds are generally a fraction of the download speeds. Contact your ISP to get more information.
  
• There are several types of DSL (such as ADSL, HDSL, IDSL, VDSL, and SDSL), each of these types of DSL technologies are designed to meet different needs of the ISP who is providing it.
  

Windows XP: Automatically Logging In

Do you want to know how to make Windows XP bypass the logon screen, and automatically login to your user account when you turn on your computer? This setup is only recommended for those people who will be the only ones accessing the computer. It's not a good business practice to use this technique at work or where a computer is shared among multiple people.

Note: If your computer is a part of a domain (generally a work computer) this tip will not work.

• From the Start menu, click Run...
• In the Run... dialog box, type "control userpasswords2", and press OK button.
• Uncheck the 'Users must enter a user name and password to use this computer' checkbox, and then press the Apply button.
• In the 'Automatically Log On' dialog, enter the user name and password that you want to use to log into the computer.
  
• Then press the next two OK buttons
  

Free Macro Creation Utility

AutoHotkey is a free open-source keyboard and mouse macro utility for Windows. It can playback your mouse movements and key strokes freeing you from repetitive tasks.

You can also create custom hotkeys and abbreviations to playback these macros. You can even convert your scripts into executable file that can be run on computers that don't have AutoHotkey installed.

Windows Live Messenger

Windows Live Messenger has now formally been released. If you don't know what Windows Live Messenger is, it's the next-generation MSN Messenger client.

Some of the new features include:

• PC-to-PC Calling
• Enhanced video conferencing
• Sharing Folders
• Send SMS text message to mobiles phones
• Windows Live Alerts
• Interactive gaming service
• Telephone calling
• and more...

There is also integration with the many other Microsoft Live services, such as: Windows Live, Windows Office Live, Windows Live Local, etc.

System Requirements:

• Microsoft Windows XP
• Microsoft Internet Explorer version 6 SP1 or later must be installed on your computer, though it does not need to be your default.
• Pentium 233MHz process (500MHz recommended)
• 128MB of RAM - Minimum (256MB recommended)
• 50MB of hard disk space for installation, 15MB to run the program.
• 800 x 600 screen resolution - Minimum

Nexuiz (Free 3D Deathmatch Game)

Nexuiz is a 3D deathmatch game who's goal is to return this genre back to its basics, with perfect weapon balancing and fast paced action. Currently the game has 17 maps to fight in, and 15 different player models to use. You can connect to the master server to play people from all over the world, or you can setup your own.

The game's content and source are GPL. Meaning, it is entirely free and any of it can be used in other free projects, even if modified. Nexuiz is based on the Quake1 engine, its source code along with its content is entirely GPL. Nexuiz will also use the Quake1 game code language, called QuakeC, which makes modding the gameplay of the game extremely easy.

Nexuiz will not require a high end system. Video cards such as a Geforce1 will be able to run Nexuiz, while higher-end video cards will be able to take advantage of the more advanced features such as realtime lighting and bumpmapping.

System Requirements

• 200MB of hard drive space

High Quality (Realtime lights & shadows, bloom on, highly detailed maps, 1024x768 or higher)

• A 1.5-gigahertz Intel Pentium 4 chip or AMD Athlon 1500
• ATI9600 or 5700fx
• 256MB of RAM

Low Quality (No realtime lights or bloom)

• 800mhz
• Geforce Video card min
• 256MB of RAM

Free Internet Fax Sending Service

Faxes are almost a thing of the past for me, but every now and then I need to send one for personal reasons. Personally I hate the technology, but it still has its place in the business world for documents that you can't get or send via e-mail.

If you need to send a fax, and you don't have easy access to a fax machine then check out this site. Its called FaxZero which lets you send a fax to any fax machine in the United States (including Puerto Rico) or Canada for free. You don't need a fax machine yourself, but you do need a valid e-mail address.

Just fill out the fax form. Be sure to include your valid e-mail address and carefully type the Confirmation Code. Type the text of your fax or attach a file (a Microsoft Word document or PDF file), then click the Send Free Fax Now button.

Note: This service is supported by advertising on the web site and on the cover pages of the free faxes you send.

Free Computer Book Offer Until the End of July

There is a site called "In Pictures" which is offering basic computer how-to books that are based on pictures, not just text. These books demonstrate how to use different applications (such as Microsoft Office, OpenOffice, etc.) and operating systems (like Microsoft Windows, Apple OS X, etc.).

Here are some sample pages from a typical In Pictures book. These books are meant for the beginning computer user on how to use these applications and OSs. These books are not meant to be extensive references.

Currently they have 22 books available on their site, which can be downloaded in the PDF format. If you act before the end of July, they're offering free downloads of all these computer books.

Security: June 2006 Security Updates Are Ready

Microsoft regularly releases new security patches the second Tuesday of every month for Windows, and other applications the company has created (i.e.: Office, Internet Explorer, etc.). Recently 12 new security patches were released. 8 of these patches are marked as critical, 2 as moderate, and 2 as important.

To make sure that your system gets patched with all the latest security updates, you can do one of two things. One, go to the Microsoft Update site in the Internet Explorer, or two, enable the Automatic Updates service in the System control panel.

To enable the Automatic Updates service:

• From the Start menu, click Control Panel.
• Double-click the System control panel
• Click the 'Automatic Updates' tab.
• Select the type of update or notification that you want.
  
• Press the OK button when done.

Google Earth (Updated)

Google recently released an updated version of its Google Earth. If you don't know what Google Earth is, it's a program that allows you to explore the Earth from a desktop computer. You can zoom in to just about any point on the planet, and see satellite photography of it.

Some of the new features of the program include:

• New navigation controls. The old navigation controls at the bottom the screen are now gone, and have been replaced with a newer set of controls.
  
• The data layers are easier to use. This feature allows you to display specific information on top of the satellite maps, such as schools, businesses, parks, etc.
  
• Support for 3D textured buildings. Meaning bricks looks like real bricks, glass looks like real glass, etc.
• Expanded the capabilities of the .KML file. The .KML file is used by Google Earth to add and share data. You can use the SketchUp's 3D warehouse to add realistic looking objects into Google Earth.
  

Google Browser Sync for Firefox

Google recently released a new Firefox extension called 'Browser Sync'. This extension continuously synchronizes your browser settings (bookmarks, history, persistent cookies, and saved passwords) across multiple computers. It also allows you to restore open tabs and windows across different machines and browser sessions.

If you only want to install the Browser Sync extension on a single computer, you can use this program to backup your browser settings and to restore your open tabs and windows across browser sessions.

Note: a Google Account is required to complete the setup process; if you don't already have one, you can create one here.

To install and configure the extension, follow the instructions below:

• Download and install the extension in Firefox, then restart the browser.
• When the browser restarts a setup wizard will display, this where you can configure the extension settings.
• In the wizard you can choose which browser components you will want to make available to other computers. You will also be required to choose a PIN to protect your sensitive information.

For more info, please visit Google's Browser Sync for Firefox FAQ.

Note: Google Browser Sync must update your browser settings whenever you start Firefox. This will increase the start-up time of the browser. Google is working to decrease this delay.

Google Desktop

Google Desktop gives you easy access to information on your computer and from the web. It's a desktop search application that provides full text search over your email, files, music, photos, chats, Gmail, web pages that you've viewed, and more.

By making your computer searchable, Google Desktop puts your information easily within your reach and frees you from having to manually organize your files, emails and bookmarks. It makes searching your computer as easy as searching the web with Google.

Here is a brief list of features:

• Quickly search your computer
  
• View news, photos and more
  
• Add Google Gadgets to customize your desktop and Sidebar

Windows Product Activation Explained

With Window XP, if you're installing it for the first time, or reinstalling the OS, then you will have to go through the Windows Product Activation (WPA) process to activate your copy of Windows. The WPA process was created to help eliminate causal piracy of the Windows operating system. The WPA ensures that only one copy of the product key is being used on one computer, and not on multiple computers (this would violate the End User License Agreement [EULA]).

When you first install Windows you're requested to enter the product key, then after the installation process finishes you will be requested to validate that product key with the WPA. You can do this in a few ways, either over the Internet or by phone. If you don't validate your copy of Windows XP in 30-days, it will prevent you from logging into the OS until you have done so.

If you make upgrades to your computer with new components (such as a new: motherboard, hard drive, etc.), you're copy of Windows might require re-activation. This is cause by the fact that WPA thinks it might have been copied to another computer, and will force you to reactivate Windows XP by calling a telephone number listed on the activation screen.

Here is a video (in three sizes 300k | 100k | 56k) if you want to learn more.

Software: AMD Live! vs Intel Viiv

Have you been hearing about Intel Viiv or AMD Live!, and wondered what exactly they are? Well I am going to provide you with a brief explanation, then point you to a great article that explains them in more detail.

The Intel's Viiv's marketing program is based around a collection of premium content providers, that provide movies, music, games, etc. AMD Live! is basically a set of rebranded third-party applications that is being offered as a suite.

Check out the following article: "AMD Live! PC Launch Backed By Free Media Apps" for all the latest information.

Outlook Express: Unblock Images

When you install Windows XP Service Pack 2, graphics in emails will no longer be displayed by default. This is a security measure to prevent spammers from using web beacons from validating your email address.

If you don't know what web beacons are, here is a quick summary: they're specially coded images that are embedded into emails to validate an e-mail address.

If you don't like this feature and you want to turn it off, follow the instructions below:

• Open Outlook Express
• From the Tools menu, select Options.
• Click the Security tab.
• Uncheck the "Block images and other external content in HTML e-mail." checkbox.
  
• Press the OK button.

Internet: Google Spreadsheets

It looks like Google is getting ready to release a its own online office suite. First it had Gmail, then Google Calendar, and now the 'Google Spreadsheets'. This is a browser based spread sheet that you can perform some basic mathematical operations.

Its no real replacement for Microsoft Excel. Although, if you have a quick list of stuff you have to calculate or a list of things that you want to track, this is a great application for it. Check out this quick tour of the program.

Windows OneCare Live

A few months back I told you about the beta version of Microsoft new security subscription service called 'Windows OneCare Live'. Well its no longer in beta, it has now been released.

Some of the features of the new service are: an improved software firewall, anti-virus/anti-spyware services, a data backup and a computer tune-up service. Below is a brief description of the new features:

• Two-Way Firewall: Monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic. A two-way firewall not only prevent other computers from attacking your computer, but also prevents programs on your computer from talking on the Internet without your permission.
• Anti-Virus/Anti-Spyware: Protects your system from malicious software such as viruses, worms, spyware, etc. It also updates itself on a regular basis to make sure that it can protect you against the latest threats.
  
• Updates: OneCare keeps your OS up-to-date with the latest patches from Windows Update.
• Tuneup: performs routine maintenance tasks, such as defragmenting hard disk, and deleting obsolete files.
• Backup: Backup your files to different types of removable media, such as an: external hard disk, CDs, DVDs, and more. The software can remind you when you need to backup your files, or can automatically back them up an external hard drive if you already have one..

The pricing for the new service will be: $49.95 per year to protect three PCs. You can also try Windows Live OneCare free for 90 days.

Windows XP: Creating an Exception with the Windows Firewall

The Windows XP Service Pack 2 firewall has several security improvements over the Internet Connection Firewall (ICF) which originally came with the OS. Although, sometimes a firewall's rules can be too restrictive and have to be relaxed in order to let your computer do what it needs to do. Such as opening specific TCP/IP ports that allow other computers to communicate with your computer.

If you don't know what a TCP/IP port is, they're basically virtual connections on your computer that the OS or applications listen to for communication purposes. When another computer wants to talk to your computer it talks to a specific port to get the information it needs. For example, if your computer has a web service on it that runs on port 80, then when an other computer wants to access that service it will talk to port 80.

Note/Warning: Opening up ports on the Windows Firewall requires knowledge of TCP/IP. Also, if you're not careful by opening up the wrong port on your computer you can make it more vulnerable to certain types of network attacks.

To create an TCP/IP port exception to allow other computers to talk to your computer follow the instructions below:

• Open the Control Panel folder from under the Start menu, and select the Windows Firewall applet.
• Click the Exceptions tab.
• Press the "Add Port" button
• In the dialog that display, enter the name for the port that you want to open, and enter the port number(s), and finally select TCP or UDP.
• Press the OK button when done to close the dialog.
• Press the OK button when done to close the control panel

Besides blocking TCP/IP ports, the Windows firewall also blocks applications and services from talking to the Internet without your permission. For example, the 'File and Printer Sharing' service is automatically block by default. To allow other computers to access this service on your local computer, you have unblock it in the firewall.

To enable File and Printer Sharing, do the following:

• Open the Control Panel folder from under the Start menu, and select the Windows Firewall applet.
• Click the Exceptions tab.
• Find and check the 'File and Printer Sharing' checkbox.
• Press the OK button when done to close the control panel

Napster: Free and Legal Songs (with a catch)

Napter is now offering free access to their two million+ song library, and its all legal. Now the catch, you can only listen to a song five times, then if you want to listen to it more you have to buy it.

Its really not a bad deal, personally there's not a lot songs out there that I enjoy that much that I would want to buy them. Although, with the way they have there service setup there is a much better chance that I would buy the songs that I really like from them. Another great feature about Napster is that you don't have to download and install any special software to listen to the music (unlike other music services).

To take advantage of the offer you have to register with the site. What this means is that you have to choose a user name, enter your email address, and select a password.

Internet Explorer: Sorting Your Favorites

Do you have a long list of links under the Favorites menu in the Internet Explorer? Are you having problem finding your favorite web site because your links are not organized logically. The following trick will alphabetize your favorite links so their easier to find.

First, make sure you have the Internet Explorer open. From the Favorites menu, right-click one of the link icons in the menu and select 'Sort by Name' from the drop-down menu. Your links should now be in alphabetical order.

Bonus tip, you can also rearrange the order of the links by moving them higher or lower in the menu. To do this, click-and-hold on one of link icons that you want to move under the Favorites menu, then drag it to its new location.

Internet Explorer: Free Spelling Checker

When filling out web forms (such as: e-mail, blogs, etc.) in the Internet Explorer browser, how many times have you needed a spelling checker to check the information you inputted. Well your desires have been answered, there is a free I.E. plug-in called 'ieSpell' that will check what you typed and make sure its spelled correctly.

Below is a brief list of ieSpell features:

• Supports a wide range of web applications.
• Spell check in any of the 3 variants of the English language (US, UK and Canadian).
• Intelligent suggesting for misspelled words using typographic “looks like” matching.
• And more.
  

Now all we need is a really good grammar checker...

Must Have Free System Administrator Tools

Here is my list of free must have system administrator tools for performing system tasks and troubleshooting. These tools can perform different functions, for example: checking your hard drive's S.M.A.R.T. counters to see if its healthy, backup your Windows registry, manage the system processes that are running, etc.

All of these tools can be stored and run from a USB flash drive. So that you can always have them with you when you need them most.

• Autoruns: Allows you to view and manage which programs are configured to startup automatically when your system boots and you login.
• Process Explorer: Allows you to view and manage system process. Here is a brief excerpt from the Sysinternals site, explaining what this program can do: "shows a list of the currently active processes, including the names of their owning accounts, ... you'll see the DLLs and memory-mapped files that the process has loaded."
  
• EURNT: Backs up the Windows Registry on your local computer.
• If you don't want to use EURNT, check out MSKB 322756: How to back up, edit, and restore the registry in Windows XP and Windows Server 2003
  
• Ethereal: Great for network diagnostics and troubleshooting.
• HDTune: View the S.M.A.R.T. information on your hard disk. S.M.A.R.T. is a technology that tracks the current condition of your drive (such as temperature, hours used, etc.).
  
• PsTools suite: Contains great tools like: PsExec, PsUptime, PsShutdown, PsLoggedOn, and more.
  

System Requirements to Run Windows Vista

When a new operating system is released, it always comes with a 'minimum' set of hardware system requirements. For example you have a CPU that is ...GHz, and you have ...GB of RAM, etc.

Minimum system requirements generally only enough to basically allow the OS to boot. If you want the system to be usable, then you will need more hardware. For example, minimum system hardware requirements to run the basic version of Windows Vista are:

• 800MHz or faster CPU
• 512MB of RAM or more
• Your graphics card needs to support DirectX v9.

If you want to run Aero, which is part of the Windows Vista's Premium version. Then the minimum system requirements are different:

• 1GHz or faster CPU [32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64)]
  
• 1GB of RAM or more
• DirectX v9 capable 3D graphics card, with 128MB of graphics memory.
• 15GB free space on your hard drive.
• DVD-ROM Drive

If you don't know what Aero is, it's the new Windows Vista subsystem that offers an extra graphic rich environment, such as transparent menus and 3D looking graphical elements.

Personally I would recommend the following hardware requirements to get the best experience from Windows Vista:

• 3GHz or faster 64-bit CPU
  
• 2GB of RAM or more
• DirectX v9 capable 3D graphics card, with 256MB or more of graphics memory.
• 30GB free space on your hard drive.
• DVD-ROM Drive
• Broadband Internet access.
• Sound card w/speakers
  

Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor (BETA)

The Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor is a small application that checks your current computer to see if it can be upgraded to Windows Vista. The program is designed to run under Windows XP, so if you have an older Windows OS (i.e.: Windows 95/98/ME/2000) it may not run.

When you run the Upgrade Advisor, it will scan your system and generate a report of all devices that are attached to your computer that it can recognize. The report will list compatibility issues, along with recommendations on how to get your computer and its hardware ready to run Vista.

The current version of the program only checks the compatibility of your hardware. In later versions of this program, it will be able to check the Vista compatibility of the applications on your hard drive.

Note: Before you run this program, make sure all your USB peripheral devices (such as: external hard drives, scanners, printers, etc.) are attached to your computer and turned on.

Vista Gets Support for IEEE 1394b (AKA FireWire 800).

I thought this was interesting, Microsoft announced Windows Vista support for the IEEE 1394b (AKA FireWire 800) standard. If you do any digital video editing then you're probably familiar with the IEEE1394 connection.

If you don't know what the IEEE1394, then let me briefly explain. This is a popular connection used by several digital video cameras, to transfer video from the camera to the computer. The use of this port is not limited to digital video cameras, but those are the devices that primarily use it. Just to be fair, I need to note some hard drives support this connection.

The older standard IEEE1394 (AKA FireWire or FireWire 400) was able to support data transfers rates as fast as 400Mbps. The newer IEEE1384b is designed to support data transfer rates as fast as 800Mbps. In comparison, USB v1.0 supports a data transfer rate up 12Mbps, while USB v2.0 supports data transfer rate as fast as 480Mbps.

The 1394 Trade Association has estimated that by the end of 2006, there will be more than five million 1394b equipped Windows and Macintosh computers. For more information read the following press release.

Microsoft unveils new betas for Office, Vista

Cnet reports, "The software maker announced Tuesday that it is ready with broader test versions of both Windows Vista and Office 2007. The company also has an updated test version of Longhorn Server, the next version of its server operating system."

This article contains the latest news about Microsoft's upcoming versions of Office and Windows. If you want to see a lot of screen shots of Windows Vista, check out this article from ExtremeTech.

What is Microsoft Max?

Do you like trying out the latest technologies, well here is a new one from Microsoft codenamed: Microsoft Max. If you're curious what it is, here is excerpt from the web site: "Max lets you make beautiful photo slideshows to share with your family and friends. And it recently began showing you the latest news updates from around the world."

With Max you can get the latest news on technology, health, sports, and etc. You can manage your photos, share and annotate them.

Here are some screen shots of the application. You can download the program from here.

Pioneer Ships First Blu-ray Computer Drive (Article)

Pioneer Electronics recently announced that it is shipping the industry's first Blu-ray computer drive (BDR-101A). This drive can burn up to 25GB of data onto a single-layer Blu-ray disc. The drive will ships with Roxio Blu-ray Disc software and a blank TDK Blu-ray discs. You can have all this for only $1,000.

---

For informational purposes, I have included a brief breakdown of all the types of media (CD, DVD, BD) that are available.

Compact Disks

• CD-R (650MB, write once)
• CD-RW (650MB, rewriteable)

DVD Disks

• DVD+R SL (4.7GB, write once, single-layer)
• DVD+RW SL (4.7GB, rewriteable, single-layer)
• DVD-R SL (4.7GB, write once, single-layer)
• DVD-RW SL (4.7GB, rewriteable, single-layer)
• DVD+R DL (9GB, write once, double-layer)
• DVD+RW DL (9GB, rewriteable, double-layer)
• DVD-R DL (9GB, write once, double-layer)
• DVD-RW DL (9GB, rewriteable, double-layer)

Blu-Ray Disks

• BD-R (25GB, write once)
• BD-RE (25GB, rewriteable)

Troubleshooting Your Network Connection

Did you know that the Windows XP Help and Support Center has built-in tools for performing system and network troubleshooting. Today I am going to cover the Network Diagnostics tool, and how you can use it diagnose a problematic network connection.

When you first launch the tool, you will be given two options, one to 'Scan your system', and two to 'Set scanning options'. If you choose the first item, the program will start scanning your system right away. If you select the second option, you can configure which tests and network components get scanned (such as: mail, Internet Proxy, etc.)

When the scan completes, a list of different network components and connections will be displayed and whether they passed or failed the diagnostics. If a component fails you can drill down into it to see what is wrong. This tool returns a lot of good technical information, and may not be too understandable to for someone doesn't understand what they're reading.

Below is the quickest way to access Network Diagnostics tool:

• From the Start menu, select Help and Support.
• In the search box, type "Network Diagnostics" and press Enter.
• In the search results, double-click 'Network Diagnostics'
• From here you can select: 'Scan your system' or 'Set scanning options'. If you select 'Scan your system', the program will start checking your computer's network components.
  

Make Free calls to any phone within US and Canada

Skype has a promotion going on right now. If you download and install their software on your computer, you can make free phone calls to any where in the US or Canada.

I use Skype, and I have been pretty happy with it. I don't own a regular phone, and I use Skype to talk to my friends in different places. All I use is my computer, my broadband connection, and a headset (speaker and mike).

Their International rates are pretty good to most countries, see: SkypeOut international rates. SkypeOut is their phone service from your computer to any phone. Calling from computer with Skype to computer is always free.

The simplest, cheapest Wi-Fi amplifier in the world. (Article)

Are you looking for a cheap way to extend your Wi-Fi connection, well I think this guy found it. The idea leaves a lot of room to be improved, but I think he's on the right track. All this for the cost of a metal pale and a USB network adaptor.

For those who want more information about antennas here is an article with some great resources.

802.11 Wi-Fi Standards

Are you confused by all the 802.11 standards, such as 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, etc. Here is a brief breakdown of the different 802.11 standards; including: speed, frequency, and the date it was ratified as a standard:

• 802.11: up to 2Mbps, uses the 2.4GHz frequency (1997)
• 802.11b: up to 11Mbps, uses the 2.4GHz frequency (7/1999)
• 802.11a: up to 54Mbps, uses the 5GHz frequency (7/1999)
• 802.11g: up to 54Mbps, uses the 2.4GHz frequency (6/2003) [802.11b compatible]
• 802.11n: up to 600Mbps+, uses the 2.4Ghz and 5GHz frequency (This standard has not been finalized) [has MIMO (Multiple-Input Multiple-Output), uses multiple transmitter and receiver antennas to allow for increased data throughput.]
  

Notes:

• 2.4GHz equipment can incur interference from microwave ovens, cordless phones, and other appliances using the same radio signaling frequency range.
• The higher frequency 5GHz equipment signals has more difficulty penetrating walls and other obstructions.

Delete Files Without Going to the Recycle Bin

If you delete file from the Windows Explorer, they will be automatically be sent to the recycle bin, which will later allow you to undelete. Although, if you want to delete files without sending them to the recycle bin first, then all you have to do is hold down the shift key while selecting the files that you want to remove.

Note: This operation can not be undone, so use it carefully.

Optimize Internet Explorer

Internet Explorer v6.0 has a few settings and features that are enabled by default that you should consider changing. Some of these features are not needed, set too high, or could be a security issue.

To make these changes the first thing you need to do is launch Internet Explorer, then from the Tools menu select 'Internet Options...'.

Reduce the Size of Your Web page History:
By default IE keeps track of all the web pages you visited over the last few days. For some people this is a very handy feature to see the sites you have visited, but for other people this is a privacy issue.

To reduce the number of days that IE tracks your browsing history:

• In the Internet Options dialog box, in the History section.
• Find the 'Days to keep pages in history' box and type "1".
• Press the Apply button.

Reduce the Size of IE's Disk Cache
By default IE will try to consume about 10% of your hard drive for its temporary Internet cache. Personally I have never seen any advantage to having a large temporary file cache like this. I recommend you set it to about 10MB or more.

• In the 'Temporary Internet Files' section, press the Setting... button.
• A new dialog will appear, in the 'Temporary Internet files folder' section change the slider so that it reads about 10MB.
• Press the OK button, then press the Apply button.

Prevent the Caching of Encrypted Web Pages
By default IE will cache encrypted Web pages. This can be a privacy issue if someone gets access to your local computers Internet temporary files.

To disable this feature:

• While still in the Internet Options dialog box, click the Advanced tab.
• In the Settings section, scroll down to the Security section.
• Check the "Do not save encrypted pages to disk" checkbox.
• As a bonus tip, check the 'Check for server certificate revocation (requires restart)' checkbox while you're in this section. This makes sure that the server certificate has not been revoked by the Certifying Authority (CA)
  
• Press the Apply button.

After you finish making all your changes, press the OK button when done.

Resetting Windows Media Player File Associations

If you have Windows Media Player, Quicktime, and the Real Media Player all installed on your computer, you may notice that they will compete to be the primary player for specific file types (such as: .mpg, mp3, etc.). I personally like using the Windows Media Player as my default media player, but if I am not careful when I update these applications they will sometimes try to re-associate specific media file types with themselves.

fortunately the Windows Media Player comes with the ability to reset these file associations back to itself. All you have to do is follow the instructions below:

• Launch Windows Media Player
• From the Tools menu, select Options...
  
• Click the 'File Types' tab.
• Press the 'Select All' button, and then press the Apply button.
  
• Press the OK button.
  

Must Have Firefox Extensions

A while back I wrote an articled called 'Really Useful Firefox Extensions', where I discussed some of my favorite extensions for this browser at that time. Well since I wrote that I article, I have stopped using some of those extensions and discovered news (note: the article is still worth checking out because it contains links to some really useful extensions that you might find worthwhile).

I have to admit I keep a lot of extensions installed in my browser, but most of them are disabled because I don't need them too often. If I need them, I just enable that extension an restart the browser. I also discovered that the more extensions you have enabled the longer it takes Firefox to load and the more memory it uses.

So here is my list of favorite Firefox extensions:

• All-In-One Sidebar: View dialog such as downloads, extensions, and more; view source of web page, or whole websites in the sidebar.
  
• Image Zoom: Gives you complete control of the size of most images displayed inside the browser.
  
• DeskCut: Adds the ability to create desktop shortcuts from the right-context menu.
• CopyURL+: Quickly copies the web site title, and/or selected text, plus the URL to the clipboard.
• Google Toolbar for Firefox: If you use any of Google services (such as: search, Blogger, Gmail, and more), this toolbar makes them quickly available to you. The toolbar even offers a spelling checker feature. (Here is a list of free Google Firefox extensions, some of which have already been incorporated into the new toolbar).
  
• Crash Recovery: Recovers all opened tabs and windows after a crash.
  
• IE Tab: Embedding Internet Explorer in tabs of Mozilla/Firefox.
• Tab Mix Plus: Enhances Firefox's tab browsing capabilities. It includes such features as duplicating tabs, controlling tab focus, tab clicking options, undo closed tabs and windows, plus much more. It also includes a full-featured session manager with crash recovery that can save and restore combinations of opened tabs and windows.

Bonus Tip:

• Make Firefox Remember Passwords: This is not extension, but it's a bookmarklet that adds some good functionality.
  

SpamBayes: Bayesian Anti-Spam Filter

A few months ago, I wrote an article about creating a whitelist in Outlook Express to help reduce spam. The biggest problem with whitelists, is that they require a lot of maintenance and they filter out the good with the bad messages. So I am not a big fan of this technology.

The good news is that there is a much better alternative to whitelists, and its called Bayesian filtering. Bayesian filters are one of the best anti-spam technologies I ever used. They work by statistically ranking the contents of e-mail messages.

Generally spam messages will use words and/or word patterns that don't typically appear in most e-mail messages. This makes it easy for the spam filter to detect and remove these e-mails.

SpamBayes is a free open-source Bayesian filter that can be run as an Outlook plug-in under Windows. There also is a POP3 or IMAP proxy version available for Windows, Linux/Unix, and the Mac OS.

When you first install a Bayesian filter, you will need to train it. You need to let it analyze good messages, and bad messages (i.e.: spam). After you train it will constantly be learning what is and what's not spam. While its first learning, it may make some mistakes, but its accuracy should improve.

Bayesian filters are also known for having a low 'false positive' rate. A false positive is a message that is classified as spam when its really not.

Paint.NET - Image and Photo Manipulation (Free)

Paint.NET is one of the better free paint programs that is available for doing basic image and photo manipulation. Let me be clear, Paint.NET is not a Adobe Photoshop replacement. Although, if you have some basic image editing needs that Microsoft Paint doesn't meet, then check out this program.

Some of the Paint.NET's features include: layer support, unlimited undo, special effects, simple tools for drawing shapes, and more. For a more complete list of features, or to see some screen shots.

Additional resources:

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Tutorials
• System Requirements and Mirrors
• Plugins
• Language Packs (available in: Chinese Simplified, Chinese Traditional, Czech, Dutch, Finnish, French, Frisian, Hungarian, Italian, Japanese, Polish, Russian, Spanish)

Creating a PPPoE Connection

Do you have a DSL or Cable broadband connection that requires you to install special software in order to access the Internet? There's a good chance that you don't need this software. Windows XP comes with the ability to create PPPoE (Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet) connections.

PPPoE is technology used by ISPs to manage customer's accounts and access from your computer to the Internet.

To create a PPPoE connection:

• Open the Control Panel folder from the Start menu.
• Double click the 'Network Connections' folder.
• Click the link in the Network Tasks pane that says 'Create a new connection'.
• In the first page of the 'Network Connection Wizard', press the Next button.
• Click 'Connect to the Internet', and then press the Next button.
• Click 'Set up my connection manually', and then press the Next button.
• Click 'Connect using a broadband connection that requires a user name and password' (if your ISP provided you a user name and password select this option) or 'Connect using a broadband connection that is always on'. You selection depends on your connection type, contact your ISP if you have questions.
• Enter your ISP name into the field, and then press the Next button.
• If required, enter your user name and password provided to you by your ISP, and then press the Next button.
• Optionally you can click 'Add a shortcut to this connection to my desktop'. Press the Finish button when done.

Google SketchUp (Free)

Google recently acquired a company (@Last Software) that creates a 3D modeling software called SketchUp. The software comes in two versions available, free and professional (it sells for $495).

Google SketchUp (Free) is for personal use, and no registration is required. While the professional version is for designers with more powerful features, such as the ability to create interactive presentations, or print to high-resolution devices.

Google SketchUp (Free) is a very powerful and easy-to-learn 3D drawing program. You can draw buildings you may want to build, plan wood making projects, design models, and more... After you create your image, you can upload it to a special site for storing it or you can post it into Google Earth.

Update: If you want to see a video of the software in action, check out this from CNet.

Windows XP, SATA, and eSATA Drives (What you need to know)

Most modern motherboards and hard drives now support the SATA (Serial ATA) standard. SATA is the next generation of the ATA standard that was created back in 1994 for consumer based hard drives.

In 2003 the SATA standard was finalized, and in many ways it is superior to its predecessor. It is faster and has more features, such as hot-swapping and native command queuing.

Recently the SATA standard was expanded to support external SATA (known as eSATA) hard drives. You might be wondering what the benefits of the eSATA vs. other external drive connection standards like USB or Firewire.

Here is a brief list of some of the benefits of eSATA are:

• Up to three times faster then USB or Firewire connections.
• Supports cable lengths up to 2 meters away from the connector
  

Window XP and SATA
I should note that Windows XP doesn't have native support for SATA hard drives. If you're setting up a new computer with XP and a SATA hard drive, and that drive is your primary boot device. You are going to need to have a floppy with an XP version of the SATA drivers for your motherboard or hard drive controller.

If you don't have these drivers, visit your motherboard or drive controller manufacturer web site and download the latest drivers. Make sure that you download the version that can be used by the Windows setup process.

During the initial text-based part of the Windows XP setup process you will need to press the F6 key when instructed to install additional drivers for the SATA controller (watch the bottom line of the screen for this message). If you can't provide these drivers, the Windows XP install will stop, and give an error that it can not locate a hard drive.

Diagnosing the WMI Services

The Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) is a Windows subsystem that allows you to programatically make calls to the operating system to get information about the hardware, OS, and application. Although, sometimes this subsystem can experience problems and it can be difficult to determine if its running correctly.

To help diagnose if the system is experiencing a problem, Microsoft has created the WMI Diagnosis Utility. It consists of a VB script and some Excel spreadsheets, which is used to check the WMI namespaces from the system being scanned. If some namespaces is found to be missing, then this is an indication that there could be a problem. Also, if a problem is found, an error will be created in the log file and suggested fixes for the problems will be noted if there available.

If you do have a problem with the WMI, check out the following article on repairing it.

Notes:

• The WMI Diagnosis Utility runs on Windows 2000, XP, Server 2003, and Vista.
• The WMI Diagnosis Utility must be run on the local computer, and you must have local administrator rights on the computer on which you run the script.

SysInternals Process Explorer

SysInternals Process Explorer is one of those must have system diagnostics utilities, its like the Task Manager on steroids. I primarily use this utility to diagnose systems that are running slow or to see how well a process is running. It shows you all the EXEs and DLLs loaded by the system, and the processes that are using them.

Below is a brief list of features available in the current version (v.10)

• Run as Limited User menu entry in the File menu to run a process without administrative privileges and group membership
• Process menu includes Restart item to kill and then restart a selected process
• Can suspend individual threads on Threads page of Process Properties dialog
• The Find Window target moves Process Explorer's main window to the back to get it out of the way
• Heuristics to detect more image packers
• User name of account in which Process Explorer is running is shown in the title bar
• As a parallel to the CPU Usage History column there's now a Private Bytes Usage History column
• New delta private-bytes column to show changes in private virtual memory usage.
• and more...
  

Yahoo's free software turns PC into DVR (Article)

CNET News.com reports: "The software, Yahoo Go for TV, is free to download. After the software is installed, people plug their computer into their television's video and audio input connections. The computer can then record and play back shows on the TV just like with a standalone DVR. Consumers can also play DVDs, music, photos or other downloaded content."

Follow the link to directly access Yahoo!Go software. To see a list of features and some screenshots, click here.

Moving the CD Recording Temporary Files Location

If you burn CDs using Windows XP's built-in functionality, you might not know that copies of the files that you're going to write to the CD are temporarily stored on your hard drive. If your drive is short on space, or you prefer to store these files at an alternate location.

Follow the instructions below to move the temporary file location for CD recording:

• Put a blank CD into your CD-RW drive.
• In the Windows Explorer, open the CD-RW drive (if there are existing files waiting to be written, delete them if you don't need them).
• Right-click the CD-RW drive, and select Properties.
• Click on the Recording tab
• Make sure the 'Enable CD recording on this drive' checkbox is checked.
• There is a dropdown menu showing the available drives on your system. If your system has multiple drives installed, they will be listed here. Select the drive where you want to store the temporary files.
• Press the OK button when done.
  

Notes:

• About a gigabyte of storage is required for storing the temporary files.
• The default location for these temporary files is: "%UserProfile%\Local Settings\Application Data\Microsoft\CD Burning\"
  

Installing Microsoft Management Console 3.0 (Advanced)

Notes:

• This is an advanced user tip because it involves modifying the Windows registry. Modifying the registry can be risky, so be sure to have a good backup of your system before making any changes to it. This tip like all tips are use at your own risk.
• This software requires that you have Windows XP Home or Professional with Service Pack 2 installed on it, and .NET v2.0.

Microsoft recently released a new version of the Microsoft Management Console (MMC). The MMC application provides a flexible framework that software vendors can write modules (called 'snap-ins') for managing applications and hardware on local or remote servers.

The new MMC v3.0 was originally developed for Window Vista, but Microsoft is also making it available for Windows XP. Some of the new features of the MMC include a new interface design and a better method of managing the snap-ins.

In v2.0 of the MMC, it was very cumbersome to manage the snap-ins, but the new version includes a 'Add or Remove Snap-ins' interface. Instead of dealing with two separate dialog boxes to create custom consoles, v3.0 provides a single dialog box that makes the process much easier.

To install the MMC v3.0, follow the instructions below:

• Download the MMC v3.0 from the Microsoft Download Center.
• Find the executable you downloaded and run it, this will start the installation wizard. Just follow the instructions.
  

To enable the new user interface, you have to modify the registry:

• Launch the Registry Editor (from the Run... command type "regedit.exe" and press Enter key).
• Find the following key in the left pane: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\MMC.
• Right-click the MMC subkey and select New > Key.
• Type UseNewUI and press the Enter key.
• Close the Registry Editor.

To launch the new MMC, from the Run... command under the Start menu type: "mmc.exe" and press the Enter key. From here you can utilize the new 'Add or Remove Snap-ins' dialog.

Internet Explorer Add-on Manager

When Microsoft released Service Pack 2 for Windows XP, it included several new security technologies. One of these technologies was the Internet Explorer (IE) Add-on Manager. The way this feature works is by allowing you to easily manage ActiveX controls that IE uses.

To manage add-ons in IE, follow the steps below:

• Launch the Internet Explorer
• From the Tools menu, select Internet Options...
• Click the Programs tab.
• Press the Manage Add-ons button

From here you should see the Add-On Manager dialog containing a list of ActiveX controls, Browser Helper Objects, and Browser Extensions. Go through each of them and disable any of them that you don't use or need.

Note: By disabling any of the ActiveX controls, you could also be disabling certain web site functionality that you may need. For example, don't disable the Flash control unless you seriously want to disable a lot of features that are used by several different web sites.

The Different Types of Internet Threats (Part 5)

In the previous parts of this article (see parts 1, 2, 3, and 4), we have covered the basics of what you need to know to protect your computer on the Internet. But to quote a Microsoft security researcher, "Security is a Journey, not a Destination." Meaning that it requires that you stay up-to-date and know what the latest threats are to protect yourself.

To finish up this article below are some topics that I want to quickly cover:

Staying Up To Date
With new attacks being created all the time, its important to stay informed about the latest security threats. Check out Microsoft Security Newsletter for Home Users. This newsletter includes: how-to articles and security tips, security bulletins and critical updates, answers to frequently asked questions on security topics, and more.

Testing Your Defenses
In the past I have already posted a few articles called 'Testing Your Defenses' (see parts: 1, 2 and 3), that discusses how to make sure your that you're computer security software (i.e. firewall, anti-virus, etc.) are working properly.

Disinfecting Your Computer
If your computer has already been infected by some type of malware (i.e.: viruses, spyware, etc.), there are some resources that you can use to remove this type of software:

• Free Online Anti-Virus Scanners
• Best FREE Windows Malicious Software Removal Tools

The Different Types of Internet Threats (Part 4)

There are two things that you need to do when roaming around the Internet to keep your computer's OS and its data safe. One, make sure your computer is properly protected, we addressed this subject in the first three parts of this article. Two, you need to follow some common sense guidelines of what not to do.

Below is my list of top 10 Internet don'ts:

1. E-mail is insecure, never send sensitive information that is not encrypted. Its very easy for someone to intercept it and its generally sent in plain text so its easy to read. Check out the following article for more information.
   
2. Don't open e-mail attachments or SPAM messages. Attachments can contain malware, spam messages can contain web beacons, which tell spammers which e-mail addresses are valid.
   
3. Don't post your e-mail address on the Web or give it out to any site that requests its, unless you want to be spam.
4. Avoid downloading applications from sites that you don't trust. This is one way to get malware installed on your system.
5. When visiting a web site and all of a sudden a pop-up displays asking you to install an ActiveX control, just say 'No'. This is another way malware gets installed on your system.
   
6. Avoid clicking links in email, they can't be trusted. Often they can lead to phishing sites.
7. Before ever sending personal or private data over the Internet to any web site you trust (Amazon, eBay, etc...), make sure that the communication is encrypted. Look for the HTTPS:// in the address bar, and a closed lock in your browser's status bar.
8. Just because a web site asks for personal or private information, don't give it up unless you're comfortable sending this information over the Internet or giving it to that site.
9. Use a credit card (i.e.: Visa, Master Card, American Express, etc...) when making purchases over the Internet. Credit cards give you the most protection on Internet purchases. Other methods such as debit cards, 'electronic checks' (i.e.: your checking account information), or etc.. are not recommended because they don't have the anti-fraud protections.
   
10. People and information on the Internet are not reliable. Always make sure to consider the source of the information. For example if its from the Washington Post I would trust it a lot more then what I read in a forum post on a web site somewhere. Also, like information people may not be who they say they are on the Internet.

The Different Types of Internet Threats (Part 3)

After you have all your defenses setup and in place, you need to make sure you keep the OS and applications up-to-date with the latest service packs, updates, and hot fixes. If you neglect this part of your security regiment, then you will leave yourself open to all sorts of application attacks.

Some of these attacks will come at you via e-mail or web pages. They can also come at you via applications and other types of files that you download from the Internet.

New vulnerabilities are being found in different applications all the time, so protect your computer by following the advice below:

• Rule 1: Windows Update is your friend, so use it. This site keeps your OS and Microsoft applications up-to-date. This site requires Internet Explorer 6.0 and higher. (For more information see the following article.)
  
• Rule 2: Make sure the Windows Automatic Update feature is enabled. This will make sure that you automatically receive and get installed the latest updates from Microsoft. (for more information see the following article.)
• Rule 3: As I said in the second part of this article, you need to keep your security software and signatures up-to-date. This also means that you need to keep the applications that you use everyday updated, like Adobe Acrobat Reader, Macromedia Flash Player, Sun Java, etc. (Check out the Google Pack of software it may help you keep some of these applications up-to-date, see the following article for more information)
• Rule 4: Use an email service that has a spam filter (most free mail services offer spam filtering), or just install one on your email client.
  
• Rule 5: Install an anti-Phishing toolbar in your browser, such as the Google Toolbar. This will help protect you against some of the phishing attacks that are out there. Note: These attacks are becoming more sophisticated all the time, and may become too difficult for this software to protect.
  

The Different Types of Internet Threats (Part 2)

Generally the first line of your computer's defenses is going to be its firewall. This will prevent other computers, and malware from trying to attack it and invading your computer from over the Internet.

Windows comes with its own firewall, which will protect you from most types of attacks. If you have Windows XP SP2 (for more information about it) installed on your computer, then the firewall is enabled automatically. If not you will have to enable it manually.

The one thing that I have to note is the Windows Firewall only protects you against attacks from outside your computer. If you're computer is infected with some type of malware, the Windows firewall can't protect you.

There are 'two-way firewalls', which allows you to monitor and control traffic leaving your computer. These types of firewalls are great for finding which applications are trying to communicate with the Internet.

Also, if you have a high-speed connection (such as cable, DSL, etc.), and are using broadband router then you might have an additional layer of defense on your side. Most broadband routers include some type of hardware based firewall.

After you have your firewall setup, you need to consider your anti-virus and anti-spyware software you have installed on your computer. Anti-virus software is not enough these days to protect your computer, you also need anti-spyware software. Then after you have it installed you have to make sure you keep the application and signatures up-to-date.

Windows Internet Security Suites
Below is a list of some Windows Internet security suites that I will recommend. These software packages are designed to protect you against most types of Internet attacks (virus, worms, Trojans, etc.), plus all the tools are generally designed to be integrated together. Which unifies the user experience, and makes keeping them up-to-date easier:

• ZoneAlarm Internet Security SuiteMicrosoft
• Windows Live OneCare

The Different Types of Internet Threats (Part 1)

No matter where you live or what you do, there different perils that we have to face everyday. For example, there is crime, accidents, sickness, our health, etc... This is just what we call a fact of life, we either deal with it or stop living.

We also have different ways to protect ourselves by taking certain precautions. Like, not putting ourselves in dangerous situations, driving more carefully, taking care of our bodies, etc...

Using the Internet has just as many perils as life itself, and like in life we have to take certain precautions. For example, we have to deal with viruses, worms, Trojans, spyware, spam, etc.. Then there are fairly new types of attacks such as phishing, and botnets.

Phishing is pretty much spam taken to its next logical level. Most phishing attacks rely on a fake email that tries to get you to go to a phony web site to reveal your personal information (such as your user name and password).

Botnets are just malware (i.e.: viruses, worms, Trojans, spyware, etc.) taken to its next logical level. Botnets, basically use your computer and bandwidth to send spam, attack a remote web site, etc.

Imagine your computer, and hundreds or thousands like it, waiting for commands from a central server on what to do next. All of this generally done without you even knowing its happening.

(Tomorrow I will discuss how to protect your computer in Part 2 of this article)

Installing the Windows Server 2003 Administration Pack

Are you an IT systems administrator that supports Windows 2003 servers? Maybe you have your own Windows 2003 servers in your office or home? Whatever the case maybe, if you're using Windows XP Professional as your main workstation for your everyday tasks you may want to consider installing the Windows Server 2003 Administration Pack on it.

The Administration Pack is designed for managing Windows 2003 servers. They allow you to remotely troubleshoot, or configure to the operating system without having to be physically at the server or using remote desktop.

To install the Administration Pack, you have one of two options. One, you can download the installer from the Microsoft site. Two, if you have THE Windows Server 2003 CD-ROM, in the \I386 folder there is an installer file called ADMINPAK.MSI.

Additional Download:

• Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1 Administration Tools Pack Windows
• Windows Server 2003 Resource Kit Tools
  

Google Calendar is Now Available

If you track events in your life or, in the lives of other then you know the importance of a calendar and especially a calendar that supports collaboration. Well, after several months of speculation, the Google Calendar is now available for you to use.

I made sure to sign-up for my calendar, just in case the service got overloaded like others in the past. When you first login, you will notice that the interface is very clean. Its still rough around the edges, but its a good first attempt.

Below is a list of some of the features:
Calendar Sharing: Set up a calendar where your family, friends, and associates can view each others schedules.
Invitations: Send out invitations to your friends, and track their responses.
Quick Add: Just click anywhere on your calendar where you want to add an event belongs (or just click the Quick Add link), and start typing.
Gmail Integration: Gmail now recognizes events mentioned in emails, and allows you to add them to your calendar without leaving your inbox.
Search: Find the date for particular event in your calendar, or just search public calendars.
Mobile Access: Receive event reminders and notifications on your mobile phone.

Windows XP PowerToys Wallpaper Changer

There is a little known Windows XP PowerToy called the 'Wallpaper Changer'. This PowerToy changes the background wallpaper of your computer's desktop automatically from images you select at predetermined intervals (based on: minutes, hours, or days).

After the program is installed, it loads when you log into your computer, and sits in the notification area. To change its settings, all you have to do is right-click the icon.

Google Releases the Google Toolbar v2.0 for Firefox

I am a big fan of Firefox and Google, which also makes me a big fan of its Toolbar. Recently they released the Google Toolbar v2.0 for Firefox. It's available in 16 languages for Windows, Mac, and Linux.

This updated toolbar includes several new features:

• Enhanced Search Box: search using the toolbar's search box, it will offer you suggestions based on what you type.
• Google Safe Browsing: The Google Safe Browsing extension is now integrated into Google Toolbar, this feature alerts you if you visit a web page that could be a spoof or phishing web site.
• Subscribe to Feed: Allows you quickly and easily add RSS feeds to Google personal home page.
• Send with Gmail: Uses Gmail as your default mail client when you click on a hyperlink that contains a MAILTO: link.
• and more... (see the following page for a complete list of features)

Freeze your hard drive to recover data: Myth or reality? (Data Recovery)

There is an interesting hard drive data recovery technique that you might never have heard about, it involves freezing the damaged drive to get the data off it. It doesn't sound like it should work, but several people claim it does.

This is one of those tricks that you use out of a shear act of desperation, when nothing else has worked. I plan to use this if I ever need to help someone recover data from a failed hard drive, and all other methods of data recovery have been exhausted.

I have to admit I have not tested it or am I recommending that you use it. If you want so more useful information about this technique make sure to read the comments on the following web page, there is a lot of good feedback there.

As I said earlier, you should only use this trick when nothing else works and you're desperate to recover the data from the drive. Also, as I have said in the past in other posts, use this information at your own risk.

Re-surfacing CDs so they work again.

Do you have scratched up CDs or DVDs that contain your favorite software, music, or movie and you can't read it anymore. Generally as long as the label (or top) side is not damaged, and the bottom only contains some surface scratches then you might be able to recover the information using this technique. (Note: Make sure to read the comments, it contains some additional suggestions and information.)

This is one of those tricks that is going to be a 'use at your own risk'. Your results will vary. Also note that I have not validated this method, but if your desperate to recover the information off the media I would suggest giving this trick a shot. Finally, If you're able to recover the data off the media, I would transfer it to another disk as soon as possible. Then I would avoid using that disk again.

Finding and Removing Installed Updates

Do you want to find out what hot fixes have been installed on your computer during the automatic updates that generally happen once a month? There's an easy way to check out which updates have been installed, and if necessary remove them.

• Open the Control Panel folder, and then double-click the 'Add or Remove Programs' applet.
• In the 'Add or Remove Programs' dialog, click the checkbox 'Show updates' at the top (which is not checked by default).
• Scroll down in the list, until you see 'Windows XP - Software Updates'. From here you will see an installed list of updates.
  

If you need to uninstall one of these updates because its causing a problem, all you have to do is press the Remove button next to the update.

Fiber Optic Internet Service

Do you remember the day that you switched from your slower analog dial-up Internet service which peaked out 56.6Kbps (which it could never reach) to your newer digital 'high-speed' Internet access (which can reach speeds between 1-3Mbps and sometimes higher). Then after you switched, you may have wondered how you ever could have lived without it.

You may need to get ready again to ask yourself 'how you ever lived without it'. Verizon recently started offering a new high speed Internet service called FiOS (Fiber Optic Service) for a little while now. Verizon's FiOS offers connection speeds from 15Mbps for about $45 a month and 30Mbps for $199. For a complete list of prices and speeds check out the following web page.

Help My Computer is Making Strange Noises

Is your computer making strange high pitch whirling sounds, or clicking noises? Generally this is an indication that part of your computer is about to fail or has already failed.

Warning: Opening your computer can be dangerous if you don't know what you're doing. Make sure to unplug your system, and ground yourself before touching anything inside of it. If you don't feel comfortable making these repairs yourself, then hire a professional.

Below are possible sources of noises from your computer:

• Hard Drive: If you start your computer, and right away you start to hear some strange sounds (such as high-pitch whirling or clicking, listen to the examples on this page) from your hard drive. This is generally an indication that it has failed or is about to fail. If you can access the data on your drive, I would back it up to another location (such as an external hard drive) as soon as possible.
  
• Power Supply, System, or CPU fans: If you start to hear strange noises from your system fans, this could be an indication that your fan is dirty or has bad ball bearings. If this happens turn off your system and clean the the fans or replace them as necessary. If you want to see what happens when your CPU loses cooling, check out the following video. If the fan that is giving you problems is in your power supply, do not try to replace it. Just replace the whole power supply.
  

Starting/Stopping Windows Services (Part 2)

Sometimes there is a need to start, stop or disable specific Windows services. Although you have to be careful what you stop, some services are dependent on others, so if you stop one you will disable or stop another. Also some services are critical for the system to be able to run properly. Now you have been warned, so consider carefully what you stop.

When managing services on your local computer you may notice that some are started, while others are stopped. You may also notice that some are set to Manual (they have to be manually started), Automatic (they start automatically when the computer boots), and Disabled (they can't be started at all, unless you change their state).

Below are the instructions for managing these services:

• From the Start menu select All Programs | Administrative Tools, and then select Services.
• Scroll through the list of services till you find the service you want to stop.
  
• Right-click the service you want to manage and select Properties.
• In the General tab, under the 'Startup Type' dropdown box you can select the service start state (Automatic, Manual, or Disable). You can also start, stop, pause, or resume the service process from this dialog.
• Press the OK button when done.

Starting/Stopping Windows Services (Part 1)

Did you know that there are applications that are constantly running in the background of your computer whether your logged in or not? These programs are called Windows Services, these programs proform a variety of different tasks, from indexing documents on your computer, to providing network services, and many more.

Below is a List of Windows XP SP2 services that are installed on your computer. Note this list doesn't include 3rd party services, and some services are only available on Windows XP Professional and not Home.

• Alerter
• Application Layer Gateway Service
• Application Management
• Automatic Updates
• Background Intelligent Transfer Service
• Clipbook
• COM+ Event System
• COM+ System Application
• Computer Browser
• Cryptographic Services
• DCOM Server Process Launcher
• DHCP Client
• Distributed Link Tracking Client
• Distributed Transaction Coordinator
• DNS Client
• Error Reporting Service
• Event Log
• Fast User Switching Compatibility
• Fax
• Help and Support
• HTTP SSL
• Human Interface Device Access
• IMAPI CD-Burning COM Service
• Indexing Service
• IPSEC Policy Agent
• Logical Disk Manager
• Logical Disk Manager Administrative Service
• Messenger
• MS Software Shadow Copy Provider
• Net Logon
• NetMeeting Remote Desktop Sharing
• Network Connections
• Network DDE
• Network DDE DSDM
• Network Location Awareness (NLA)
• Network Provisioning Service
• NT LM Security Support Provider
• Performance Logs and Alerts
• Plug and Play
• Portable Media Serial Number Service
• Print Spooler
• Protected Storage
• QoS RSVP
• Remote Access Auto Connection Manager
• Remote Access Connection Manager
• Remote Desktop Help Session Manager
• Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Remote Procedure Call (RPC) Locator
• Remote Registry Service
• Removable Storage
• Routing and Remote Access
• Secondary Logon
• Security Accounts Manager
• Security Center
• Server
• Shell Hardware Detection
• Smart Card
• SSDP Discovery Service
• System Event Notification
• System Restore Service
• Task Scheduler
• TCP/IP NetBIOS Helper
• Telephony
• Terminal Services
• Themes
• Uninterruptible Power Supply
• Universal Plug and Play Device Host
• Volume Shadow Copy
• WebClient
• Windows Audio
• Windows Firewall/Internet Connection Sharing (ICS)
• Windows Image Acquisition (WIA)
• Windows Installer
• Windows Management Instrumentation
• Windows Time
• Wireless Zero Configuration
• WMI Performance Adapter
• Workstation

Free Online Storage (Streamload)

Do you need a place to store your files online, so you can access them from another location (such as work)? Maybe you want to share large files (such as: personal photos, audio, or video) with your friends or family.

Streamload is offering 25GB of free online storage. If you need more storage, then you can pay for what you want. Then you can securely access the files through your browser.

You can also use a service like this to backup your personal files off your local computer just in case you lose your hard drive or another catastrophe.

The Port Reporter Tool (Advanced)

Note: The log information produced by this tool can be difficult to understand if you don't have a good knowledge of the TCP/IP network protocols and how the Windows OS functions. To see an example of the log files, check out the following page.

Microsoft has released a great tool for monitoring and diagnosing problems with your network communication. The tool is called, the 'Port Reporter tool'. This tool runs as a service on Windows 2000, XP and 2003, and it logs the TCP and UDP port activity on your local computer.

Below is a brief list of some of the information the tool logs:

• The ports/protocols that are being used
• Which processes are using specific ports
• If a specific process is related to a service
• The user account that the process is running under.
• The modules (i.e. DLL files) that are being used by the process.

Testing TCP/IP Connectivity (Advanced)

Note: The log information produced by this tool can be difficult to understand if you don't have a good knowledge of the TCP/IP network protocols.

Microsoft has released a program called PORTQRY.EXE, which is a tool designed to check TCP/IP network connectivity and port status (both TCP and UDP) on local or remote computers . If you're any type of system administrator (such as: e-mail, database, web, etc.), then you will need a utility like this in your diagnostic tools arsenal.

This program was originally included as part of the Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Support Tools. Since then Microsoft has released a new version of it (called PORTQRYV2.EXE) that includes new features and functionality not available in the earlier version.

PORTQRYV2.EXE is a command-line utility, so to get the syntax to run it or to see examples of the output go to the following Microsoft Knowledge Base Article (MSKB).

LogMeIn Free Remote Access

Do you need access to your home computer while you're on the road or at work. LogMeIn offers a free service for securely accessing your computer from a remote location.

All you have to do is setup an account and install the software on your home computer. Now you can securely access your remote computer from any Internet connected computer.

You can upgrade to the Pro version to transfer, synchronize files remotely and more. See the following page for more information.

Internet Explorer Security Zones

Setting Internet Explorer security settings properly is a tricky process. The default settings keep you pretty safe, but you can always tighten them up to make your computer more secure. The trick is finding the optimal security settings, where web sites still display properly and your computer is still secure.

Internet Explorer uses different security zones to enable or disable different browser functionality and security features to display certain types of web content safely. For example, if you're browsing your company's Intranet, IE will pass your Windows Security credentials. Although, if you're browsing an Internet web site IE will not pass this information.

IE supports four security zones: Internet, Local Intranet, Trusted Sites, and Restricted Sites. Each security zones allows you to set separate security settings and specify which sites fall into which zones. You can set individual permission for each zone by moving a slider up and down, or by setting individual security permissions.

Local Intranet zone: Less restrictive security permissions. Designed to be used for web sites that exist on your companies local Intranet.
Internet zone: The most restrictive security permissions. These settings will apply to most if not all web sites you visit.
Restricted zone: This is a list of sites that you don't trust. Certain potentially insecure web content will be blocked, such as ActiveX controls.
Trusted Sites zone: This is a list of sites that you trust implicitly. Even if certain web content is blocked by the other security zone permissions, web sites listed here will be allowed to display potentially insecure web content.

To access these settings, do the following:

• While in Internet Explorer, from the Tools menu select 'Internet Options'.
• Select the Security tab.
  
• Make the appropriate changes, then press the OK button when done.
  

Desktop Earth - Wallpaper Generator

Desktop Earth is a wallpaper generator for Windows. It runs whenever you log into your computer and updates your desktop's background with an image that accurately represents the Earth as it would be seen from space at that precise moment in time.

Images are rendered from high-resolution textures (2560 x 1280) for any size monitor. There is an image for every month to accurately depict snow and foliage changes. The imagery is based on NASA's Blue Marble Next and Earth's City Lights.

Can't see graphics in email after installing SP2

There are new security features that are added into Outlook Express (OE) when you install Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2). By default, SP2 blocks OE's ability to display graphics and other external content in HTML e-mail messages.

This security feature is designed to prevent spammers from using a technology called 'Web Beacons' which lets spammers know that they have a legitimate e-mail address. The way Web Beacons work is when the e-mail client requests an embedded graphic, it has a unique identifier attached to it. The unique identifier tells the spammer which email addresses are legitimate.

To turn off this feature and enable graphics, follow the instructions below

• From the Start menu | All Programs | Outlook Express.
• From the Tools menu and select Options...
• Click the Security tab.
• Uncheck the 'Block images and other external content in HTML e-mail' checkbox
  
• Press the OK button.

FolderShare for Windows

FolderShare is a free application/service that allows you to share your files from across two or more computers at different locations (such as home and work). The way this service works, it that it setups a private peer-2-peer network between to or more computers, and then synchronizes the files between all the computers in the network.

FolderShare consists of two components, 'My FolderShare' and 'FolderShare Satellite'. My FolderShare allows you to manage the file sharing between the two computers. FolderShare Satellite is the software that you run on your computer that allows you to synchronize and share files.

FolderShare Satellite runs in the background on your computer when you're online. Then as you update your files they will be automatically sync with the other devices.

From here you can download FolderShare for Windows or the Macintosh.

Best Free Games on the Web (Article)

1UP.com has a great article about a 101 free games that you can download and play on your computer. Here is an excerpt from the article: "You don't care how you get your fix. You just want to play a new game right now and you don't want to pay a lot for the privilege. Thank God for the Internet, where everything (and its mom) is available for free. So, taking a break from downloading patches and porn, we set upon a journey to gaming-freebie Mecca."

Google Web Accelerator

The Google Web Accelerator is now available for download again. When this service first debuted late last year they had to take it offline soon after releasing it because of capacity problems (too many people were using it). Well, its now back online.

This service is designed for broadband users, and allows you to use Google's network to download web pages more quickly. For more information on how it work see the following FAQ item.

System Requirements:

• Operating System: Window 2000 SP3+, or XP
• Browser: IE 5.5+ or Firefox 1.0+
• Availability: Users in North America and Europe (during beta testing phase)

Microsoft New Ultra-Mobile PC

Microsoft is introducing a new portable computer category called the Ultra-Mobile PC (UMPCs). The UMPC is an extremely portable Windows based computer that you can use on the go, or in a meeting. You can check your e-mail, watch video, manage a budget in Excel, play games, and more.

The UMPCs includes a full copy of Windows XP and the ability to touch, write, or type, on the screen. Since it runs a full version of XP, you can run your favorite Windows-based applications on it. To see the UMPCs interface in action, check out the following demo.

Below is the minimum hardware specifications for these devices:

• Windows XP Tablet PC Edition 2005 OS
• Approximately 7"” diagonal display (or smaller)
• Minimum 800 x 480 resolution
• Approximately 2 pounds
• Integrated touch panel
• WiFi- and Bluetooth-enabled

Free Google Firefox Extensions

Did you know that Google offers free extensions for the Firefox browser that you can download and install? If you don't know what extensions are, they are small applications that can be installed in the browser that adds new functionality.

Below is a list of the extensions that are currently available from Google:

• Google Safe Browsing: Warns you if a site is fake, which can be used to steal your personal information.
• Blogger Web Comments: See what bloggers are saying about the web page you're visiting.
• Google Toolbar: Quickly access Google features and services.
  
• Google Send to Phone: Send text messages to a mobile phone (U.S. numbers only).
• Google Suggest: Enhances Firefox's Search bar with an Auto-complete feature.

Hacking your Linksys WRT54GL Wireless Router (Article)

ExtremeTech has a great article on hacking your Linksys WRT54GL wireless router. If you own one of these devices, then this article is worth checking out. By making an upgrade to the router's firmware, you can add some amazing new features, such as:

• Traffic shaping (a way of optimizing network performance).
• Boasting your router's power output (increases the router range).
• Bridging multiple routers together (increases the router range).
  

Internet Explorer 7.0 Beta 2

Microsoft is making available for download, the Internet Explorer 7 Beta 2 Preview. This is the latest version of I.E. 7, and its for Windows XP SP2 only. If you're running an earlier version of the OS, you're out of luck.

Before you download this software, realize its Beta which means that its not the released version. This means use it at your own risk, Microsoft makes no guaranteess, that you will not have compatibility problems.

This Beta is primarily meant for I.T. professionals and web developers to test their web site and applications against the new browser. Although, if you want to check it out for yourself I don't believe there are any restrictions against it.

Some of the new improvements in the browser include: security protection, redesigned user interface, and development platform. Below is a high level list of some of the major new features:

• Phishing Filter (reports if a web site is not who it really is)
• RSS Reader (allows you to read RSS feeds in the browser)
• Tabbed browsing (open multiple web pages in a single window)
• Toolbar search box (quickly search from the toolbar)
• Advanced printing (optimized web page printing)
• Security Status Bar (displays different colors in the status bar to notify you how safe the web site might be)
• Privacy Cleaner (quickly deletes your browser cache, cookies, and other data that might contain personal information)
• And much more...

For a quick tour of IE7, check out the following demo.

Hard Drive Diagnostics with HD Tune

HD Tune helps you monitor your hard drive's performance and health (such as errors and heat). This program uses SMART (Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology) to check the status of your hard drive. It can also scan the surface of your hard drive for errors.

System Requirements:

• Windows 2000, XP (all versions), 2003 Server (requires administrator access).
• 10MB of free disk space
• SCSI, SATA or IDE hard disk.

Windows Defender

Microsoft recently released a new version of its free anti-spyware program called Windows Defender (Beta 2). This program was originally release last year under a different name (Windows Anti-Spyware).

The program features real-time monitoring that can help protect your computer from many different types of threats caused by spyware. It also features a new streamlined interface.

For more information:

• What is spyware?
• Spyware video
• Quiz: Test your spyware knowledge
• Microsoft's spyware strategy

Windows OneCare Live

Microsoft recently released a new security subscription service called 'Windows OneCare Live'. This new security service is currently in its beta testing phase.

Some of the new features of the service are: an improved software firewall, anti-virus, data backup and cleanup tools for your computer.

Microsoft also announced the pricing of the new service will be: $49.95 per year to protect three PCs. Currently now while its in beta, its free to try until April 30th.