The Technicians Notebook
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00A) What is your opinion on all the ongoing controversies about the best methods to protect personal computers from viruses, malware, spyware, worms, trojans, hackers etc?

001) My FireFox Browser will not allow me to install extensions, can you help?

002) What extensions would you recommend for the FireFox Browser?

003) Can you recommend a good site for info on tweaking the registry?

004) The Font used by Windows Explorer is too small for my eyes. Can it be changed?

005) Somehow I forgot my LOGIN password to my Windows 98 machine. How do I find it?

006) To accommodate a new peripheral I need to make changes to something called BIOS on my PC, how do I get there?

007) I am familiar with block and copy yet there are times when I want to capture things like Windows error messages or information appearing on web pages. Unfortunately in some of these cases copy wont work. What can I do?

008) I need to run an old DOS application on my new XP computer, any suggestions?

009) While in a chat room someone posted a web site like www.xyz.com:12146 I was advised not to go there, can you offer any reasoning to support this advice?

010) The other day my mouse broke and left me unable to control Windows. I felt helpless. Is there a utility available to give some basic keyboard menu control when something like this happens?

011) I suspect that the TCP/IP installation on my PC is corrupted. Is there an easy way to test it?

012) I know when you double click a file, its extension determines what application will load to make use of it. But how can I tell if an extension is legitimate?

013) I need to reinstall XP but hate to lose all my settings. Is there a way to avoid this?

014) Is there a way to get XP to automatically boot up without selecting a user?

015) I just discovered the power of a Batch file for doing backups. Im using XP. Is there a way to create a Menu in a batch file with a choice of selections to go to?

016) I no longer want a certain program to load every time I boot up my machine. I looked in the Startup folder but its not there. How is it being loaded?

017) I thought only executable files could carry a worm or virus. A friend sent me a speed.reg file that crashed my system. How could that happen?

018) Should I be concerned about a program that uses the Hive Keys as opposed to an INI file to store configuration data?

019) I am constantly reading about Sockets, Ports, TCP and UDP. Can you give me a quick perspective on what I should know here?

020) Can you recommend a good service for this new telephone over Internet phenomena?

021) Can you recommend a good microphone to use with my PC's sound card? I am trying to improve my sound quality when I use voice on Yahoo.

022) Occasionally when I am connected to the Internet I get pop up advertising windows even when the Browser, Internet Explorer, is not running. Is there any way to stop this? Oh, I am running XP.

023) How can I determine what version, USB 1 or 2 is installed on my Windows PC?

024) I am trying to delete a trojan file on a Windows machine, but it says "in use" and wont allow me to delete it. Whats can I do?

025) I learned a bit reading your reply on Routers but would like to now know your opinion on the wireless versions?

026) I understand you can share a DSL or Digital Cable connection with other PC's in your home or office. Can you explain how its done?

027) Lately there are big price reductions on digital cameras. Are they ready to replace film cameras? What features should I be looking for?

028) I see dozens of different Computer Mice being advertised. Aren’t all mice basically the same, they move the cursor?

029) A friend told me that many computer programs have Easter Eggs, can you shed some light on this?

030) E-Mail Spam is driving me crazy. Surely there must be something that can stop it?

031) Lately every Web site I visit produces PopUp Ads. I have heard you can buy special PopUp blockers to stop this kind of unsolicited intrusion. What would you recommend?

032) I recently purchased a new digital camera with an internal memory card. I was told there is an easy way to get the pictures on my PC without all the fuss of using a USB or serial cable. How?

033) Recently my Browser (Internet Explorer 6) had been going to a porno site every time I open it. I tried deleting it as my home page but it keeps coming back. How do I stop this?

034) I understand Microsoft has released Service Pack Two for Windows XP. How important is it?

035) Can you offer any guidelines on what I would call good operating practices when using PC's?

036) I have heard both good and bad things regarding screen savers, can you elaborate? Seems like a great place to have a picture of a grandchild.

037) Every menu design in Windows programs seems to be identical to the next. Why is plagiarism so prevalent among authors of Windows applications?

038) How can I be sure I don't have a virus, worm, spyware, hijack, key logger, backdoor or trojan on my computer?

039) Can you offer some useful bookmarks from your vast collections?

040) What can you tell me about Jump or Thumb or Flash Drives?

041) I know I have a program running in XP but its not showing in the lower corner Tooltray. What can I do to make it show?

042) What Hot key combination in Windows XP will show what programs or services are running in the background? And, whats the difference?

043) I would like to begin backing up my DVD movie collection. What can you tell me to help get started?

044) Can you tell me in just a few sentences the basics of setting up a home network?

045) My existing home LAN, consisting of two W2000P computers, share files and printers using the NetBEUI protocol. This non routable packet protocol was recommended for security reasons as one machine is always connected to the Internet. I just purchased a new Windows XP Laptop that I want to connect to my LAN, and notice it does not have that protocol. What gives?

046) I have Windows XP Home on my Computer. I am no longer using Microsoft Internet Explorer web browser; I am now using Opera. How can I get rid of their annoying blue IE Icon from my desktop?

047) A few years ago I sold a business along with a computer. The billing software was DOS based. I am about to start another similar kind of business using a copy of that software. Unfortunately all the new PC come with non dos friendly operating systems. Any Suggestions?

048) I realize this is a rather general question but what do you see in the future for the Internet?

049) I was informed I could edit something called the windows registry to make a change in how Windows Explorer sorts files; can you tell me what to do?

050) How could I tell if I got infected with a Trojan, Virus or worm and what is the best defense against infection?

051) Can you help me decide between DSL or Digital Cable?

052) What light can you shed on the Music Industries assertion that they will start filing lawsuits against music down loaders?

053) I hear the terms Client and Server used a lot. Can you tell me what its all about?

054) I know this isn't a computer question exactly but why do some VCR's lose their setting when power fails and others dont?

055) I have a small business and am still using pure IBM-PC DOS, quit successfully I might add. However, my local shop no longer supports DOS systems. Where can I go for support?

056) I just purchased a new computer. Unfortunately my printer requires a parallel port and the new PC only has USB. Is there a USB to parallel converter?

057) I recently un installed a program I no longer wanted. A message said I needed to edit the registry to remove a key. What does that mean?

058) My company advised all its employees to obtain an email account within 30 days. After doing some reading I am totally confused. How does WebMail differ from EMail, and is either better than the other? What do you recommend?

059) I am a newbee with computers so I am shopping for software. I have heard a lot of good things about shareware since you can try it before you buy it. But some things confuse me. What does Alpha and Beta versions mean? And how do you interpret version numbers?

060) I have Windows on my computer. One of the applications I use will occasionally lock up. Im tired of re-booting, is there any alternative?

061) For convience, I want to create a Shortcut on my Desktop that will launch one of my frequently used applications. Is that an easy way to do it?

062) I realize this question will never get published, but what makes you a PC Expert?

063) Can you explain in laymen terms what the word PATH means in my computer?

064) I recently downloaded a program off the Net but I cannot seem to find it. Any ideas?

065) I am confused. What is the difference between an ascii, text and binary file?

066) Can you explain in laymen terms what the difference are between worms, trojans and spyware?

067) A friend gave me a printer that requirs a newer USB port but my older PC only has serial and parallel ports. Is there an adapter?

068) Dear Technician: I recently upgraded my operating system (again), from W98 this time, to W2000. However I loved using FileManager that was always included with all previous versions of Windows. Not only is it gone from W2000 but the W98 version wont work in W2000. Second question, several of my Games will not play under W2000. How come? Please, HELP!

069) I have been using AOL for years but am sick of the poor service and constant advertisments. I want to switch to a basic provider (ISP). Whats involved?

070) My PC no longer keeps time after I turn it off. When its on and I set it, it keeps accurate time. What could be wrong? How can I fix that?

071) What does having a static Internet IP address versus a dynamic IP mean? And, how does a URL differ from an IP?

072) I want to start voice chatting, what is the best type of microphone to use on my computer?

073) I hate to sound like a newbie, but what is an optical mouse? a Trackball?

074) I use Microsoft's Internet Explorer for browsing the web. Can it be configured to always open a new window when I click on a link?; and is there a hot key to close popups?

075) I am looking for and old version of a freeware program. I am told it is likely stored on a University mainframe somewhere. Is there a way to find it?

076) Everyone hypes Web search engines like Google, are there any special tricks to narrowing the search results?

077) Can my wife share my dialup Internet connection on her computer? and if so, how?

078) I plan to buy my first computer. Should I buy from a local clone builder, discount house, or a major builder like Gateway or Dell? And, are there any realistic alternatives to Windows for an operating system?

079) I need to backup (on floppy disk) several data files every day. What is the easiest way to do it?

080) My computer suddenly reboots for no apparent reason, can you offer hints to fix it?

081) I am considering leaving my dial up and upgrading to either DSL or Digital Cable. Can you outline the pros and cons of each service?

082) I downloaded a program called viewer.zip, how do I install it?

083) What is the least expensive way to improve the performance of my computer?

084) The amount of unsolicited email I receive is increasing daily. What can I do to stop it?

085) I noticed a PC the other day with hardly no Shortcuts appearing on the Desktop, how do you hide them and also, how can you manually create one?

086) What is an "attachment" to e-mail?

087) My PC says I have no "association" when I double click to display a digital image, howcome?

088) My computer keeps telling me it has no "Association" for a file I keep trying to double click and open. This used to work, whats going on?

089) I just connected my two PC's together with a NIC. I am running W2000P. Each time I want to use resources of the other PC I have to login. How can I automate that? Mostly I need to move files.

090) How can I do a quick Block, Copy and Paste?



*****************************************************************

What is your opinion on all the ongoing controversies about the best methods to protect personal computers from viruses, malware, spyware, worms, trojans, hackers etc?

Its good that you said "opinion" because there are as many opinions as there are computer owners out there. We believe common sence should dominate any discourse on these issues. Almost without exception, all computers are at some time or another connected to a Network (the Internet or a business LAN), so any ongoing discussion should also be rooted in this reality.

COCKPIT PARADIGMS: Begin with good user practices. Never operate your computer when you are excessively tird or fatigued. We suggest turning OFF any application features (including Windows itself) that automatically check for updates. Do it manually and then be patient about upgrading, don't immediately jump at new releases other than perhaps bug fixes (bugs that you have experienced); This way others will be the test pilots, not you. Know the history of the software vendors you are dealing with. Stick whenever possible with "open source" peer reviewed applications. Try to avoid the word "FREE"; very few software utilities that provide value are without some kind of strings attached. When un- installing software, let Windows do it as opposed to the vendors own un- installer. Avoid doing anything you don't know how to undo.

SCAMS: Don't fall for highly legitimate looking e-mail that warn that someone is using your credit cards, bank accounts, store accounts, PayPal etc. Legitimate credit vendors do not communicate this way. Don't forward Mrs Mogaubie from Nigeria and money to assist in her acquiring funds for which you will receive a generous fee. Do not, under any circumstances, click on attachment links in email you receive without scanning them first.

OPERATING SYSTEMS: Keep them updated! This is your very first line of defense.

FIREWALLS: Since this tome was started, Microsoft has greatly improved the internal Firewall that comes with XP-SP2 and XP_PRO-SP2. For most ordinary users this Firewall is now sufficient for blocking or allowing and remembering exceptions to inbound packet request coming from the Internet. It is our opinion that only advanced users would require the monitoring of clients on a PC trying to "call home". Factually, if you don't know what "calling home" means, you likely do not need the added protection. If you do, its likely that no additional advice here is necessary. If your PC's are using software firewalls, and you use a Router, in many cases its less complicated to turn the routers internal NAT (its firewall operation) off and DMZ the node your PC is using. If you connect to the Internet using a DSL modem, be aware these modems also have rudimentary firewall that can be disabled if needbe under Port Follow Through or DMZ.

SCANNERS: It is our opinion that scanners, much more so than firewalls, give a false sense of security. Why not first avoid the typical sloppy operating practices that always seem to result in a gotcha situation? Hackers can always defeat scanner utilities given enough motivation or time. Unfortunately many free spyware blockers, popup blockers, adware blockers etc are themselves involved in various privacy invasions. An added aggravation is that many malware scanners interfere with the operation of legitimate software with either false positive triggers or causing strange functional problems with otherwise good applications, problems that are difficult to pinpoint. Use a more security conscious Browser, like FireFox, that clues you to potentially dangerous web sites. Use a manual foreground malware scanner like ClamWin to screen ANY and ALL downloads for viruses etc before installing them.

SNAKEOIL UTILITIES: These are typically a waste of money for any real benefit they offer. A good example is hard drive and ram de fraggers. While most disk scanners actually do what they say they do, that is, restore files to contiguous segments on the disk, the improvement in speed offered when used on modern, small diameter high speed SATA drives, is generally rather insignificant for most ordinary users. As for Memory Managers, for our money you would get better results (considering the LOW price of RAM chips today) by increasing the native RAM on your computer.

OTHER USEFUL GADGETS: Explore the benefits of Jump or Thumb Drives that plug into USB ports. For wireless users, check out home or business Range Expanders. For those living in areas where the electric grid is unstable, explore the use of APC type backup power supplies.


My FireFox Browser will not allow me to install extensions, can you help?


The probability is that when you did a previous FireFox upgrade containing a security fix, it turned auto installs off. To reverse this, type "about:config" (less quotes) in the URL address box. This will give you access to Firefox's configuration setup. Now scroll the listing and look for the following entry: "xpinstall.enabled" (less quotes). Double click that line and change the setting from False to True. CAUTION: Be very careful when modifying keys here.


What extensions would you recommend for the FireFox Browser?

Extensions that work! Many of them cause conflicts so you become a test pilot! The upside is they can easily be un installed if a new one starts causing strange behavior in the Browser. Now, with the bad news out of the way, here are a few of my favorites. First, a dictionary extension for people like me who encounter big words but have small minds! Second a language translator. I also like the UserAgent switcher so you can fool a site geared to Internet Explorer to believe FireFox is IE6 and have it behave accordingly.



Can you recommend a good site for info on tweaking the registry?

Yes, but you are playing with fire. However, if you insist, try
Kelly's Korner for various .REG file key examples. Once you have a good "XYZ.REG" file, you only need double click it for the operating system to install or modify the keys involved. Once again, this is VERY dangerous and only highly skilled users should attempt it. Of course a skilled user will back up the registry first, right? :-)


The Font used by Windows Explorer is too small for my eyes. Can it be changed?

Yes, however any change made will affect more than just the font used in Windows Explorer. To set a new Windows default font, from any open place on your Desktop, right click and when the desktop menu pops up, choose "Properties". Next click the "Appearance" tab then the "Advanced" button. Now, under the :Item "combo box", scroll down to "Icon" and the previously grayed out "Font" combo box will un gray and allow you to chose the Font you desire.



Somehow I forgot my LOGIN password to my Windows 98 machine. How do I find it?

This wont help you find a forgotten password but it will solve your basic Login problem. Plus, this will work on either Windows 95, 98 or Millennium. These operating systems have a very easy password fix that doesn't require any special tools. However, you will need your Windows floppy DOS boot disk. Insert it and boot up to DOS. At the A: prompt type C:\ then Enter. Then, at the c:\ drive prompt type "CD\WINDOWS" then press Enter. Here you type "DEL *.pwl", press Enter and say yes when Windows asks to confirm the delete. This will delete the file where Windows stores the passwords; and when its deleted and you reboot, Windows will once again ask for a new password. My suggestion is to leave the new password dialog box blank and press Enter. You may have to do this twice. Now Windows will boot without asking for a password.

BTW, for people with NT based operating systems (Windows 2000 or XP) its a bit more difficult and requires special commercial boot up/password recovery utilities. These sell between $25 and $200 bucks. If your machine can boot from a CD, I recommend the
PasswordReset CD For $39 this chap will sell you a bootable CD with the password recovery utility on it. If you have a machine with a bootable USB drive, try the Lost Password company. For more serious situations, try Elcomsoft.


To accommodate a new peripheral I need to make changes to something called BIOS on my PC, how do I get there?

Bios or Cmos is a user accessible firmware utility programmable chip that stores the basic setup or configuration of your motherboard. You access it at boot up time by holding down one or a combination of keys. This loads the firmware that brings up the BIOS menus. The keys used on newer PC's are typically either F1, F1, ESC or DEL. Older PC's may use a combination of keys such as CTRL+ALT+ESC or CTRL+ALT+INS or CTRL+ALT+ENTER or CTRL+ALT+S or the PAGE UP KEY or the PAGE DOWN KEY. If none of this works, try holding down any key while booting. This might cause a keyboard error signal that will give you BIOS access.



I am familiar with block and copy yet there are times when I want to capture things like Windows error messages or information appearing on web pages. Unfortunately in some of these cases copy wont work. What can I do?

In cases where the standard Ctrl-C or copy command balks, there are several shareware utilities available that can do the job. Try doing a scan on Google using the words "text catch".



I need to run an old DOS application on my new XP computer, any suggestions?

Contrary to popular belief, the original engine for DOS, known as COMMAND.COM, is still available in XP but is not called by default. To use command.com, you must modify the shortcut that starts the DOS program in lieu of the newer CMD.EXE engine. Right click on the shortcut icon and choose "Properties." Click on the "Program" tab. You'll see an entry on the "Cmd line" that reads something like:

C:\PATH\XYZDOS.EXE

Change this so it reads:

COMMAND /CC:\PATH\XYZDOS.EXE

Note the only space in the string is after the word COMMAND. For the "Run" setting, choose "Maximized" then Click "OK".

Finally, if the display looks odd, click on the icon in the upper left corner of the DOS window. (This may look like a little MS-DOS, or a little C:\ prompt icon.) From the resulting menu, choose "Properties." Click the "Layout" tab. Change the "Screen buffer size" and "Window size" settings to width of 80 and height of 25. Click OK. If it asks if you want this to apply to all windows like this, answer "Yes."



While in a chat room someone posted a web site like www.xyz.com:12146 I was advised not to go there, can you offer any reasoning to support this advice?

Yes. A Web Browser can connect to any available port the operator cares to run it on. By default, with no ":12146" port number appended to the URL, a Browser will connect using port 80, the international standard. A Web server running on port 12146 is anything but standard and is likely a mini server running on some ones home PC. If you logon, you are divulging your IP as well as opening yourself up to being tricked into receiving malicious java code. Although some of these non standard sites can be legitimate, it is always best to operate on the side of caution.



The other day my mouse broke and left me unable to control Windows. I felt helpless. Is there a utility available to give some basic keyboard menu control when something like this happens?

Actually, with the right key stroke combinations you can do just about anything the mouse can do. Look here for a white paper on mouse equivalent key stroke
substitutions.


I suspect that the TCP/IP installation on my PC is corrupted. Is there an easy way to test it?

Open a Command (DOS) window and type: "C:\netdiag /test:winsock" (less quotes) at the prompt. After running, if TCP is viable you should get a message that says "Winsock test ..... passed".



I know when you double click a file, its extension determines what application will load to make use of it. But how can I tell if an extension is legitimate?

First, you are correct. You can associate any extension with any application. However, if you need to know what application created or uses any particular file by its extension, check this list of common
File Extensions. BTW, to set or change a file association, right click the file from Windows Explorer, chose "Open with", then "Choose Program", and check off "always open this file type with this program".


I need to reinstall XP but hate to lose all my settings. Is there a way to avoid this?

To reinstall WindowsXP and keep all your current installed applications and settings, go to Start / Run and type in "C:\PATH\WINNT32 /unattend" less quotes (PATH=Path to i386 install files) Note: If you are reinstalling XP due to a virus or worm, this may not help if the original installation files were also infected.



Is there a way to get XP to automatically boot up without selecting a user?

If you are the only person using the computer and want to have it automatically log you on Go to: Start / Run / and type in "control userpasswords2" (less quotes). Uncheck "User must enter a user name and password" to use this computer.



I just discovered the power of a Batch file for doing backups. Im using XP. Is there a way to create a Menu in a batch file with a choice of selections to go to?

Indirectly its doable with the SET command. This code will illustrate how:

@ECHO OFF
:REPEAT
CLS
ECHO.
@ECHO OFF
ECHO Yoda's BackUp Utility
ECHO.
ECHO [A] Backup 1
ECHO [B] Backup 2
ECHO [C] Exit
ECHO.
SET /P mreply=Enter Choice :
IF %mreply% == a GOTO C1
IF %mreply% == b GOTO C2
IF %mreply% == c GOTO C3
ECHO Not a valid choice!
PAUSE
GOTO REPEAT
:C1
@ECHO ON
DO STUFF HERE
GOTO REPEAT
:C2
@ECHO ON
DO STUFF HERE
GOTO REPEAT
:C3
@ECHO ON



I no longer want a certain program to load every time I boot up my machine. I looked in the Startup folder but its not there. How is it being loaded?

When Windows loads, it has several ways of running a program, other than the Startup folder. The program could be running as a "Service"; in that case you might look for an Option menu within the program that has a "run as a service" checkbox, and un check it, then close the program. Another alternative is to go directly to a built in Windows utility that monitors all applications running as a Service and allows you to disable them. Go to the Start/Run box and type in: C:\WINDOWS\system32\services.msc then look for your application. Next the program could be launched from a special key in the Hive (registry) called the Run Key. In this case you need to open the registry editor by again going to the Run box and typing in: C:\WINDOWS\system32\regedit.exe and doing a Find on: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVe rsion\Run Once there you delete the field in this key thats launching your application. Finally, there is a last method a program can load at boot up via a command in either of two files in the windows folder of your boot drive called WIN.INI and SYSTEM.INI; but today, its very unlikely to be there.

CAUTION! You need to be aware that anytime you edit Services and or the Registry, a mistake can crash your operating system, even render is unusable.



I thought only executable files could carry a worm or virus. A friend sent me a speed.reg file that crashed my system. How could that happen?

Live and learn. Too bad some lessons are hard. A file with the extension .REG is recognized by Windows as a registry edit or patch, and when you double click it, the content can add, alter, or delete keys in the registry, all automatically. Using REG files is not for novices.



Should I be concerned about a program that uses the Hive Keys as opposed to an INI file to store configuration data?

The scare here is that a poorly written application that writes to the Hive or Registry could corrupt it. IMHO, technically, the registry (an indexed database file) is a better place to store data as compared to a sequential read/write text file. If you are that concerned, wait a few weeks after a new release is out before you become a test pilot.



I am constantly reading about Sockets, Ports, TCP and UDP. Can you give me a quick perspective on what I should know here?

Internet communications occurs over virtual connections that are created and killed on demand by your TCP/IP protocol (software - sometimes referred to as the Stack). These virtual paths are called Sockets. There are two common kinds of Sockets, TCP and UDP. Any Socket can send or receive on one of up to 65,536 different ports. Every Socket in use must be using a different port number. Some ports, by international agreement, are set aside for special use, such as port 80 for Web traffic. When data is to be transmitted it is enveloped into a "packet" or bunch of organized bits called a Datagram. If sent using a TCP Socket, each data packet must be acknowledged by the destination as received intact before the sender must either repeat it or transmit another. In UDP, no authentication is used and the packets are said to just stream out. This is as simple as I dare to explain it.



Can you recommend a good service for this new telephone over Internet phenomena?

One of the more popular services today is
Skype. They offer a free client program that provided "peer to peer" voice communications over the Internet as well as "peer to Telephone" service for a modest monthly fee. For peer to peer voice communications (no interconnects to real telephones) I would suggest you try another free client called CQPhone. This one also has some nice additional features that simultaneously allows text chat, photo exchange, video conferencing and the sharing of web pages. Another tiny but powerful VoIP Client is PicoPhone. It offers IP 2 IP connectivity, full duplex, text chat, busy messages, as well as full voice and text conferencing between multiple users.

Finally, if you want something that comes closer to a real telephone service over the Internet, and you have a broadband connection, you can get a box that plugs into your cable modem, and allows a conventional telephone to connect to it, and pretty much operates like an ordinary phone. You also pay a monthly fee to the service provider and the fee's typically include some long distance. Check out Vonage and Lingo. Note: There are many other companies now offering these kinds of service. I suggest you do a Google search on "telephone over the internet".


Can you recommend a good microphone to use with my PC's sound card? I am trying to improve my sound quality when I use voice on Yahoo.

Most all sound cards "require" condenser or Electric mics (not to be confused with piezoelectric or crystal mics). Typically these mics are very inexpensive and sell for under $10. Most expensive high quality mics are of the dynamic or coil type and are not compatible with sound cards, and even cause problems, so don't bother with them.



Occasionally when I am connected to the Internet I get pop up advertising windows even when the Browser, Internet Explorer, is not running. Is there any way to stop this? Oh, I am running XP.

There are several ways to disable this annoying Microsoft service called Messenger. You can download a utility that will do it safely for you at
Gibson Research. Or, you can execute a built in Windows utility that displays all running services on your machine and also allows you to disable or enable them. Go to Start/Run and type in: C:\WINDOWS\system32\services.msc


How can I determine what version, USB 1 or 2 is installed on my Windows PC?

The later versions of Windows come with a utility file called MSINFO32.EXE You can execute it from the Start/Run menu option. This utility will profile the entire system and should tell you what you need to know.



I am trying to delete a trojan file on a Windows machine, but it says "in use" and wont allow me to delete it. Whats can I do?

Try this: First close all open programs; then, open a Command Prompt (C:>) window and leave it open. Then Click Start, Run and enter TASKMGR.EXE Go to the Processes tab and End Process on Explorer.exe. Leave Task Manager open. Go back to the Command Prompt window and change to the directory (C:>CD\XYZ) where the undeletable file is located in. At the command prompt type DEL where is the file you wish to delete. Go back to Task Manager, click File, New Task and enter EXPLORER.EXE to restart the GUI shell. Close Task Manager. With care and luck, this should do it. CAUTION: Make sure you KNOW what you are removing!



I learned a bit reading your reply on Routers but would like to now know your opinion on the wireless versions?

The big upside to wireless routers is you eliminate the need for running CAT5 cables to all your various PC locations. This makes wireless especially great for portables like Notebook PC's and Laptops. However, the downside's have lots of considerations. First is expense. Each PC that uses the system must have a receiver. Second is interference. This varies a lot but even florescent lamps can cause troubles. Finally, there is privacy issues. In theory, a good hacker could monitor your activity from the house across the street, a van or next door apartment. Better wireless routers are now using built in encryption techniques, but there are no guarantees. The greater transmitting range your wireless router provides, the greater the chance of remote eavesdropping by a hacker.



I understand you can share a DSL or Digital Cable connection with other PC's in your home or office. Can you explain how its done?

*This reply assumes you already have a functional PC using dialup with TCP/IP installed.

Sharing DSL or Cable is generally accomplished with a device called a Router. It takes your one internet source (dsl or cable), splits it up, and allows you to feed Internet connectivity to several computers. The common Routers today typically have four LAN ports that accommodate up to four computers. They sell from $35 to $60. Most all high bandwidth providers allow the use of routers, but many wont support them, and herein lies the problem. Routers are a bit technical and sometimes troublesome to setup. If you lucky enough to be running W2000 or Windows XP, much of the setup is rather automatic. Any older Windows operating system involves more tweaking. Each PC must have its own NIC or Network Interface Card. Most newer PC's come with NIC's pre installed. I suggest allowing the NIC in each PC to automatically get its non routable IP address from the DCHP server built into most Routers. There are some circumstances when you might want a static or fixed non routable address for server operations but thats a rather advanced issue.

A typical setup is as follows. The incoming line (phone or coax) plugs into the cable/dsl Modem. The Modem provides a socket for a CAT5 cable. This cable would ordinarily would go between the Modem and the NIC on a one PC setup. However now it connects the Modem to the Router's WAN input. The Router then feeds the various PC's vi a series of CAT5 sockets. A big upside to this arrangements is no one PC is hosting the connectivity, so if power is left on the modem and router, any connected PC can turn on and have instant connection to the Net.

Today's Routers are combination gadgets, providing HUB services and NAT services. The HUB part is where the PC's physically connect to the Router (and therefore each other - forming a LAN or Local Area Network vi four or more CAT5 sockets). The NAT or Network Address Translator (which also acts as a hardware firewall) does all the technical work; sorta acting like a traffic cop at a busy intersection. With a functioning LAN you can also share resources (drives, printers etc.) among the PC's involved. Things don't get tricky until you run software that wants to act as a server, that is, software that listens for incoming traffic on certain ports. Most high bandwidth provider BLOCK certain common server ports like 80 (the web) unless you pay for their business or high end services.

Here is a bit of tech stuff made as simple as I can write it. The DCHP server built into the Router assigns "non routable" IP's to the connected computers; non routable IP's act like one way mirrors, meaning no one on the Net can detect or reach the PC's on your LAN directly, but your LAN PC's can talk out to the Net using those same non routable IP's via the Routers NAT. The NAT converts or makes them usable going out on the Net and receiving replies. Other functions of interest are Router Port Forwarding, DMZ operation, Filtering etc but these things are beyond the scope of this reply and also vary a bit with each router manufacturer.



Lately there are big price reductions on digital cameras. Are they ready to replace film cameras? What features should I be looking for?

Digital cameras can come close to the quality of film cameras, but even with price rollbacks you still need to spend 4 to 5 times the money in digital to get the equivalent "professional" film quality. That being said, for average needs, the newer digital cameras provide excellent results within the same price range of typical 35mm film cameras, and with less effort.

The main picture sensor of a digital camera stores light information in discrete pixels. The more pixels, the more light information or better picture quality (resolution). You want the most pixels you can buy within your price range. 3 million to 5 million (megapixels) is average today. Next, the camera must store this pixel information. This storage is either vi memory (RAM) sticks or mini CD disks. The amount of memory controls the number of pictures that can be stored. I recommend memory sticks (as opposed to any technique with moving parts) and suggest you buy the largest capacity stick you can afford. Most newer PC's today have front slots that allow common memory sticks to be plugged in and read just like a floppy disk, making removal and deletion of picture files a snap.

Many of the new digital camera can also operate like Vidcams, taking movies (picture and audio) in one of several electronic movie file formats, like AVI or MPG, instead of the older VHSC or 8mm magnetic tape. To conclude, I assume you are film camera competent and understand typical camera optical's and know enough about F stops, lens aperture, shutter speeds etc etc to make those choices and comparisons.



I see dozens of different Computer Mice being advertised. Aren’t all mice basically the same, they move the cursor?

Yes and No. The first mice to hit the market were ball mice which required a special pad to move against providing the appropriate friction. The disadvantage is obvious, you need a pad. Next to arrive were the Optical mice. These needed no pad as they used reflected light under the mouse to determine movement. These worked great until you encountered shiny or smooth grain surfaces such as found on many expensive office desks. Another problem with these two former mice was resolution or accuracy of movement and positioning. Next enters the new Laser Mouse which overcomes all the previous disadvantages and can even be found in cordless versions. I recommend the RF over infrared signaling methods on the cordless models. Another adaptation was the stationary Trackball which I happen to favor over moving mice. I might also suggest a model with programmable buttons if you happen to have frequent need for exotic key combinations to do repetitive tasks. Most mice today come in the PS2 variety (over the old RS232 serial port versions). A big upside to PS2 is they are hot sockets. Meaning plugging and unplugging wont lock up your PC or require a reboot like serial mice do. The latest fancy mouse to hit the market is the MX 1000 Cordless Laser Mouse by
Logitech.


A friend told me that many computer programs have Easter Eggs, can you shed some light on this?

An Easter Egg is jargon invented by programmers to describe hidden features in a program. Sometimes these features may not have enough broad appeal to be mentioned in documentation, and other times they are just plain silliness or private credits given by authors to those who assisted them. Easter Eggs are frequently activated by clicking on Icons that otherwise seem to have no real function other than decoration. Some are activated by Hot Keys (combinations of Ctrl, Alt, Shift etc). In most all cases, Easter Eggs range between totally harmless to useful tricks or work around's. There are even some groups in cyberspace who dedicate their efforts to discovering Easter Eggs and publishing their findings. Interestingly enough, almost every program ever written has Easter Eggs.



E-Mail Spam is driving me crazy. Surely there must be something that can stop it?

You cannot always stop Spam, although more and more ISP's are providing site filtering on their mail servers; but, you can do something locally, that is, on your own computer. Better email programs, like
Eudora or the free open source ThunderBird offer something called dynamic filtering. With this you create mailboxes for everyone you communicate with, along with a corresponding filter to direct incoming mail to those appropriate mailboxes. You could in theory then set a filter to delete automatically anything remaining in your InBox. This last delete action depends on the exact features your particular email client provides for.


Lately every Web site I visit produces PopUp Ads. I have heard you can buy special PopUp blockers to stop this kind of unsolicited intrusion. What would you recommend?

The problem is far more sinister than just PopUps. The flagship Browser, Internet Explorer 6 is just loaded with security problems and annoyances. Our advice? Get a better Browser like the Open Source freeware Browser known as Mozilla. You can get your free copy of
Mozilla here. Mozilla is fast, bug free, customizable and has the look and feel of Explorer making the transition smooth and effortless. As a side note, one reason Mozilla has no security holes is in great part due to the nature of "open source" applications; wherein tens of thousands of programmers can inspect the code looking for weaknesses, in addition to contributing.


I recently purchased a new digital camera with an internal memory card. I was told there is an easy way to get the pictures on my PC without all the fuss of using a USB or serial cable. How?

You are probably better off using the cable and the software that came with the camera due to its many editing features etc. However, that being said it might interest you to know that almost all memory cards and sticks CAN be read as if they were a super fast high density floppy disk; that is, if you are fortunate enough to have a PC with built in memory card sockets on the front of the case (or have an external reader). Remove the stick or card from the camera and insert it in the appropriate socket. Once inserted, the card should show up as a drive E,F,G? etc etc which can then be manipulated by using "Windows Explorer" for typical copy, moves, renames or deletes. BTW, a neat upside to this technique is having the ability to share pictures (memory cards/stocks) from friends who have differing manufacturers of cameras.



Recently my Browser (Internet Explorer 6) had been going to a porno site every time I open it. I tried deleting it as my home page but it keeps coming back. How do I stop this?

You have been the victim of a new Web phenomena called a Hijack wherein you unknowingly clicked on a link that placed some mischievous code on your computer. Go here and get a free Hijack remover called
CWShredder


I understand Microsoft has released Service Pack Two for Windows XP. How important is it?

Most of the fixes and upgrades in SP2 are related to Microsoft lame internal firewall. If you are up to date with SP1 and all of the pre SP2 security patches, and you have your own robust firewall (like Zone Alarm) and a similarly good virus scanner, you do NOT need SP2. And, if you are going to go for it anyway, I would wait at least 3 months before grabbing a copy, otherwise you are joining the ranks of "Test Pilot".



Can you offer any guidelines on what I would call good operating practices when using PC's?

When you are about to do something you have never done previously, read the HELP files or manual. If you are still unsure, look up key phrases on
Goggle's search engine; otherwise you are a test pilot. The corollary rule is never do something that you don't have a high level of confidence that you can undo; otherwise you are a test pilot. Always leave your desktop and application windows clear of clutter after a session. Try to locate someone who has successfully used a program or gadget that you are interested in buying (before you spend money); otherwise you are a test pilot. Finally, avoid being a test pilot at all cost!


I have heard both good and bad things regarding screen savers, can you elaborate? Seems like a great place to have a picture of a grandchild.

Years ago screen savers were often big problems for early under powered PC's. Today the biggest risk is getting a screen saver contaminated with a virus, worm or Trojan. Desktop wallpaper and screen savers are very popular today. If you install a 3rd party screen saver, make sure you scan it first before installing it. Infected xyz.SCR (screen saver files) are often spread as attachments via email.



Every menu design in Windows programs seems to be identical to the next. Why is plagiarism so prevalent among authors of Windows applications?

You just observed one of the primary reasons for the rampant success of Bill Gates Windows creation. The commonality of functions. The short answer is that built into the operating system are many pre written libraries of code (DLL's) that are available to a programmer to keep things standardized. And more importantly to programmers, to avoid wasting time through the re invention of wheels. Another big plus for the author is keeping the code size of his creation minimal by making simple calls to these pre written internal functions when he needs something such as a menu.

The big plus for the user is that once you become familiar with your first program, 50% of the learning curve for the next is already behind you! Now, the secret is out!



How can I be sure I don't have a virus, worm, spyware, hijack, key logger, backdoor or trojan on my computer?

In the past year, these bugs have become so sophisticated in exploiting holes in Net connected computers, that it is now estimated that one of every two PC users is infected with one bug or another!

Some infections can be relatively harmless, like the worms that only report "where" you surf on the Web, to serious things like reporting your keystrokes or damaging your files and operating system. Here are the recommended countermeasures and cures.

One:
Keep your machine UPDATED with any security patches offered by the company making your operating system.

Two:
Install a good virus scanner and keep it up to date. We recommend
BitDefender but there are several good free ones like at AntiVirusPro.

Three:
Install a good firewall such as ZoneAlarm or Sygate - both have free versions that are excellent.

Four:
Check your computer with anti spyware-adware- highjack-parasite utilities such as NoAdWare and CWShredder

Always pay close attention to your computer's behavior and look for tell tail signs, such as your mouse getting intermittently jerky, your Net connection suddenly slowing to a crawl, your hard drive's free space continually dropping. Never click on email attachments until they have been checked for bugs and be careful of offers of free programs and utilities that are hawked on various web sites. Finally, here are some similar questions and answers: Q&A1 and Q&A2.


Can you offer some useful bookmarks from your vast collections?

Sure, try any of these!

Spyblaster's Free Utility:
SpyBlaster

Windows XP Tips:
XP Guides
Security
Duke University
Stanford
Black Viper
Microsoft
OneComputerGuy

Port Explanations:
Port Tables
Port Info

Task List: (whats running in TaskManager)
Task Info

Need a Driver? Get them here:
PC Drivers

Online Port scanners:
LogScan
Gibson Research Center
PC Audit Site

Knowledge Base Links:
PC Security
Microsoft

Security Tools:
Security Utilities

How to stop Telemarketers:
Zap Them


What can you tell me about Jump or Thumb or Flash Drives?

To begin with, all the descriptive names you mentioned relate to the same technology. That is, marvelous miniature, totally solid state, storage devices that (in my opinion) have almost made Floppies, Zip Drives and CD's obsolete. These exciting gizmo's make use of special new hi-density integrated circuits (once known as EPROM's - for electronically programmable random access memory). EPROMS can store and rewrite data electronically rather than magnetically thus eliminating the need for moving magnetic media. This translates to the user as a finger (or "Thumb") size device with no moving parts, that can "Jump" into (and out of) any available USB1 or USB2 port and can copy data in a "Flash".

Jump drives literally install themselves on W2000 and XP machines the instant you plug them in (using internal Legacy Plug-N-play drivers). Note however that W98 requires a stand-alone but supplied driver that you must manually install. XP users get an added advantage of faster hot socket operation wherein the Jump drive can be safely removed without first closing the USB driver software. When a Jump is plugged into an available USB port, it automatically appears as a new drive letter in the chain when viewing from Windows Explores or the older File Manager.

Since file data is stored on tiny portable and easily removable media, Jumps provide excellent backup and data transport. They come in storages sizes up to a Gigabyte with minimal changes in actual physical size. The newer models take advantage of USB2 speed and are ultra fast, moving data in and out much quicker than the older USB1 technology could allow. In theory, this new, all solid state media, should out last any magnetic media (or optical) storage technology for maintaining long term data integrity. Like any new technology just hitting the streets, they are still a bit pricy yet highly recommended.



I know I have a program running in XP but its not showing in the lower corner Tooltray. What can I do to make it show?

With XP you can make the Tooltray show all icons, even those that are idle. To do this right click an empty area of the Taskbar and choose Properties, then the Taskbar tab, and uncheck "Hide Inactive Icons".



What Hot key combination in Windows XP will show what programs or services are running in the background? And, whats the difference?

For regular programs: Click the "Ctrl" and "Shift" and "Esc" keys at the same time. For programs running as Services: Go to Start/Run and type in: "C:\WINDOWS\system32\services.msc" less quotes.

Programs running as a Service (limited to NT systems only - including W2000 and XP) are available to any user who has access to a PC, as opposed to Users who have limited access and who can only run applications specified and or allowed by the PC operator with Administrator rights. Typically a single user is also the Administrator.

CAUTION: Worms, Trojans and ZombieBots frequently load as a Service to avoid detection. So, occasionally monitoring what services are running is a good habit.



I would like to begin backing up my DVD movie collection. What can you tell me to help get started?

Since this is such a trendy topic today, let me tell you everything I know starting from the beginning.

MOVIES ON CD's:
When CD's first hit the market, movies were recorded in a special video CD format called VCD (MPG1); then, later, Super-VCD (SVCD i.e. MPG2) which had better picture quality. Compatibility was always an issue as not every CD and or DVD machine could handle both VCD and SVCD formats. Fortunately most newer DVD machines will play either format. Note: It was (and still is) important to check the format specifications before buying a machine.

COPYING DVD to CD:
There is a lot of software on the market that will allow you to convert and record most DVD movie formats to VCD or SVDC resulting in a copy of a DVD movie on a writeable CD. There are limitations. First, DVD movies can be up to 4.7 gb in length as compared to the 800mb limited storage on a CD. This often means it takes several CD's to house one DVD movie. Second, the DVD data format must be converted down to MPG1 (VCD format). This takes TIME. Even on fast machines it can often take 2X the actual movie length in minutes. For this you need patience. Third, the VCD format (MPG1) is of very poor quality as compared to DVD formats. Meaning you lose a lot of picture resolution or quality. This is somewhat reminiscent of copying a VCR tape to another VCR tape. Fourth, and likely the most important limitation, you get only the movie and none of the menus and extras that often come on DVD's.

ABOUT DVD's:
There are currently three major competing formats used to play and "burn" (the slang for record) DVD's. The first format to hit the consumer market was -R; then +R and DVD RAM. To be safe today you would need a DVD Player/Burner that can play and record at least the -R and +R formats. Most later model DVD machines can also play the older VCD and SVCD CD movie formats. The -R and +R DVD formats burn with a red laser and are capable of storing up to 4.7gb of data on a single sided DVD. The new future blue lasers (not yet out in the market) will burn up to 50gb on a single side DVD, and likely will not be downward compatible with the older formats. In that regard, some old DVD -R players will not play the newer +R.

DVD burners also require that an R type DVD blank (as opposed to RW's) be "finalized" after you finish all intended recording. This is done to make the disk compatible with most other DVD players. Once a "R" disk is "finalized" it can no longer be used to burn additional data. Many DVD Burners allow the creation of multiple Chapters, Titles for Chapters, and Bookmarks. Chapters are the equivalent of Menus where you can select what to play. Bookmarks allow you to forward or rewind in jumps of X minutes.

MAKING BACKUPS:
Many "pre recorded" DVD's (Movies etc) are using special encryption techniques to foil machines and or copy programs that do simple disk cloning. This either prevents a DVD from being copied or produces un viewable results. In comes special decryption type DVD copy programs to overcome the problem. Without getting into the legality of circumventing copyright protection schemes, some of this copy software is expensive. Its always a good idea to check for results with someone who has used a particular brand/version of copy software before you spend your money. The fastest way to clone a DVD is to have a setup with two DVD's running; one that plays and the other that records. Slower processes (using only one DVD) must first copy the data to your hard drive before recopying it to a blank DVD. For this, a hard drive must have at least 5gb of available space.

CONCLUSION:
Be prepared to dish out as much as a buck apiece or more for blank DVD disks (as opposed to CD blanks which are close to free after rebates). Make sure the DVD's you buy are technically compatible with your specific burner's format. DVD disks are available in R, RW and RAM types. The RW's are rewritable. The R's are single shot disks once they are Finalized. I recommend using RW disk to avoid creating "coasters" (slang for disks you ruined), as you learn procedures that gives good consistent results.



Can you tell me in just a few sentences the basics of setting up a home network?

Sure, here is the gist of it. Each machine needs a NIC or Network Interface Card installed (cost $10 to $15) Use Base10/100 cards that relies on RJ45 jacks (most common) to interconnect vi RJ-45 cables ($5). If its just two machines involved, purchase one RJ-45 crossover cable. If three or more, purchase a Hub/Switch and connect all three PCs to that Hub. A basic Hub/Switch (cost $20 to $30) will require that all three NICs be assigned non routable IPs from the pool of non routable addresses. Typical example: 192.168.0.1 then 192.168.0.2 etc. 255.255.255.0 should be the bit mask. If none of the PCs are connected to the Net, the machines can use the TCP/IP protocol. Otherwise use NetBEUI. If money is no object, get a hub/switch/router that assigns IPs dynamically. Wireless types are also available. "Printer and File Sharing" must be activated on each machine and each device on each machine (HD, CD, Printer etc) that you intend to share, given share permission.



My existing home LAN, consisting of two W2000P computers, share files and printers using the NetBEUI protocol. This non routable packet protocol was recommended for security reasons as one machine is always connected to the Internet. I just purchased a new Windows XP Laptop that I want to connect to my LAN, and notice it does not have that protocol. What gives?

Microsoft no longer supports it. However, its available on the net and once obtained, easily added to your machines library of protocols. Do a search on the Net using Google. Also, check your XP install CD. It might be in one of the folders or CAB's. If all else fails, check
here for a copy.


I have Windows XP Home on my Computer. I am no longer using Microsoft Internet Explorer web browser; I am now using Opera. How can I get rid of their annoying blue IE Icon from my desktop?

Right click anywhere on the open desktop. Choose Properties from the pop up menu, then Desktop, then Customize and un check the Icons you no longer desire.



A few years ago I sold a business along with a computer. The billing software was DOS based. I am about to start another similar kind of business using a copy of that software. Unfortunately all the new PC come with non dos friendly operating systems. Any Suggestions?

My recommendation is to look around your neighborhood and or local area for "Sale/Swap" type tabloids. Generally there are listing for old but working AT type PC's running at 133 or 166mhz. Typically they sell for well under $100. It will likely have DOS on it but if not you can download a DOS bootdisk from
BootDisk's web site. I suggest using the most recent release of DOS; either MS-DOS7, PC-DOS7 or DR- DOS7. Otherwise, you could try a floppy with DOS on it and boot a modern PC with it. You will likely get an A: prompt but the problems will come when reading the newer high capacity drives having more advanced file allocation tables.


I realize this is a rather general question but what do you see in the future for the Internet?

First, the emphasis on higher data speeds will continue but without dramatic increases in cost; next will be the technical and hardware changes that will allow almost unlimited users to have unique addresses (static IPs) on the Net. Finally, the push towards more and more wireless connectivity, including home networking, with smaller and smaller physical wireless and non wireless devices.



I was informed I could edit something called the windows registry to make a change in how Windows Explorer sorts files; can you tell me what to do?

Editing the registry (a couple of complex database files containing most all the configuration setting for your operating system and programs) is the near equivalent of brain surgery. One tiny little mistake and the system could die. However, if you have the skill and the nerve, every version of Windows comes with an editing utility called REGEDIT.EXE To invoke this editor, go to start/run and type in "regedit". Oh, some personal advice; don't even think of doing this without making backups of the registry. This is easily done in W2000 by choosing Export Registry then ALL, from within the REGEDIT utility. For additional help try
WinGuides. You can also get a good registry editer at RegCrawler.


How could I tell if I got infected with a Trojan, Virus or worm and what is the best defense against infection?

This is such a common question, affecting so many people, its worth repeating the answers. Symptoms are not all the same so there is no single clue that fits all. It is even possible you will never know you are infected. However, here are a few common symptoms: a) sudden slow down in overall speed or performance b) intermittent or constant jerky mouse cursor movement c) a sudden increase in error messages d) your systems crashes and will not reboot.

There are other more sophisticated ways to tell if there is some unknown background process running on your machine, but how to detect it depends on the exact operating system version you are running. Example, if you were running W2000, there is a utility that comes with the OS called TASKMGR.EXE that will list every process running on your CPU. By comparing the real time list with the list when the OS was first installed, and accounting for all applications you have running, you can find the odd man out or suspicious entity. This is by no means foolproof as some clever trojans can replace a real component (file) that belong. Even so, if you are competent to have 32 bit crc signatures of all OS files, you can still determine if they have been modified. Unfortunately, this is typically beyond the scope of the average user.

In many cases the only out for the average user trying to resurrect his PC is to do a complete disk format and reinstall the OS. A good technician, who can accurately determine the exact type or kind of infection, is also usually competent enough to know how to remove and replace any affected files as well as edit the registry and system configurations to stop any reinfection. Unfortunately you pay dearly for this level of service. The best defense is to avoid becoming infected. The secret here is to employ good operating techniques. Have available a good virus/trojan/worm detector. If connected to the Internet, run a versatile and high quality Firewall; especially if you operate a small network (LAN) with shared resources. Make sure your OS has all the latest security fixes and updates; especially your web Browser. If friends give you a CD or floppy, scan it before installing anything from it. I even scan commercial software disks. Finally, never NEVER run or execute ANY attachments you receive vi email until you scan them first. This even applies to a file your mom sent you; as frequently computers can be infected and become carriers without the owner knowing. Finally, if all this is beyond your ability, hire someone to do it or forget about using computers.


Can you help me decide between DSL or Digital Cable?

Perhaps if you know the features and differences you can decide for yourself.

DSL:
Must be within a DSL available zone.
Uses one existing home phone line for DSL and Telephone.
Internet connectivity Always On.
Static or Dynamic IP.
Fixed bandwidth, never changes Monthly Cost: $40 to $50 for lowest tier.

Digital:
Must have coax going inside.
Can coexist with cable TV.
Shared bandwidth, so speed will vary.
Telephone service may or may not be available.
You are a node on a LAN and can be seen by others.
Internet connectivity always on.
Static IP.
Monthly Cost: $30 to $40



What light can you shed on the Music Industries assertion that they will start filing lawsuits against music down loaders?

Good question. Lets start with an examination of their contention that they are losing profits. To make a profit, a sale had to take place. Their assertion is erroneous simple because most all down loaders would never purchase the song under any circumstances. Plus, its actually advantageous to the industry to have more people playing their music because there is a good chance a third party who hears the song will be a regular collector and go buy it. A clear example of this is Radio DJ's who spin records and thus generate sales. I believe the music industry is stepping on it own foot. The only reasonable use of copyright is to protect against claim jumping among companies themselves.

To sue, an individual has to be clearly identified as the wrongful doer. All thats possible today is to identify the entity thats was paying for the Internet connection used while the download took place and even that requires a court order to the ISP. It is Yoda's opinion that the cost to sue (with no guarantee of victory) will far out weigh the mythical profits from mythical lost sales. But, only time will tell. However, just as the death penalty has never stopped murder, its unlikely lawsuits (IF they happen) will stop downloading.



I hear the terms Client and Server used a lot. Can you tell me what its all about?

In general these terms have to do with networking where several computers share information. Admittedly the definitions are fuzzy. Example, a server can be both a computer (hardware) as well as a software program. A server computer can be running client software and or server software. Confused yet? Think of servers like waiters in a restaurant bringing food to you, in this case its data or information. Think of yourself as the client, making selections from the data menu and receiving your order. Example, an email program is a client that request your email from a pop3 server at your ISP. However, your email program must also send out replies and new email to an SMTP client. So, in a sense, your email program also behaves as a server too. I told you it was fuzzy. In the early days, both were called Daemons, after mythical greek beings that were thought to exchange messages between the Gods and man.



I know this isn't a computer question exactly but why do some VCR's lose their setting when power fails and others dont?

In a way, it is computer related. It has to do with the difference between volatile and non volatile memory. The latter stores data and keeps it whether a/c power remains on or not. This can be done several ways. One, by using a small refresh battery or two, by using chips called eproms that once set, remain that way until they are intentionally altered. Prices have fallen to the point where all new devices now being manufactured are using some form of non volatile memory. Previously, only high end electronic products had that technology.



I have a small business and am still using pure IBM-PC DOS, quit successfully I might add. However, my local shop no longer supports DOS systems. Where can I go for support?

First, you are not alone. But secondly, I fear the days of DOS are over. Since you have access to the Net there are several Usenet newsgroups that still exist to help surviving DOS users. However, to my knowledge there are no new versions of DOS being developed.



I just purchased a new computer. Unfortunately my printer requires a parallel port and the new PC only has USB. Is there a USB to parallel converter?

No, but the odds are that you have a free slot available on the motherboard and parallel expansion cards are still available, typically for under 10 bucks. Just make sure you know what type of slot you have (ISA, PCI etc) to get the right card.



I recently un installed a program I no longer wanted. A message said I needed to edit the registry to remove a key. What does that mean?

Windows keeps a lot of operating system and program configurations settings in a twin file database called "The Registry". A good un installer should have removed what are now "orphan" keys (setting no longer needed). Yours apparantly did not. However, we do NOT recommend you change or remove anything. A simple mistake can bring your entire system down and prevent you from booting up. If the problem is serious we suggest you take it to a pro. Obviously if you were able you would not be asking for help here. However, if you enjoy testing fate, a registry editor comes with every version of Windows and is a file called REGEDIT.EXE



My company advised all its employees to obtain an email account within 30 days. After doing some reading I am totally confused. How does WebMail differ from EMail, and is either better than the other? What do you recommend?

Without getting into a lot of detail, here are the up sides to Web Mail. Frequently its offered free (the mail account that is - not the internet connection you need to use it). Microsoft's HotMail is now one of the biggest vendors of free Web Mail. Another big plus with Web Mail is you can access it from anyplace that has an internet connection and a Web Browser, such as a friends place, a coffee house or a work terminal. All you need know is your email address and your private password. The downsides are that frequently the archiving (done on their server) of old mail is limited unless you pay for premium service. There is a wee bit less security and Web Mail is never feature packed like email clients such as Outlook, Eudora, Pegasus and Foxmail which depend on your providers mail servers.

Here, here is my recommendation. If you do not intend to pay for a provider, and have reasonable access to a terminal connected to the Internet (work or school etc) my advice is go with WebMail. If your needs involve managing many email addresses, mailboxes etc., go with an email client (we recommend Eudora) and an ISP's POP3 and SMTP servers.



I am a newbee with computers so I am shopping for software. I have heard a lot of good things about shareware since you can try it before you buy it. But some things confuse me. What does Alpha and Beta versions mean? And how do you interpret version numbers?

Good questions. Alpha means software is still in the development stage and Beta means development is generally over but the software is not fully tested. Frequently vendors will make Beta (and sometimes Aplha) copies available with the caveat "no guarantees". Of course, many final or public releases have been known to still have bugs. Frequently the small letters a or b after a build number will indicate if its still in alpha or beta, but not always. There is no hard and fast rules for version numbers, but it generally works like this: Assume Version 1.2.13 The first 1 indicates it is the very major version; the next 2 says its the second release of version 1 (usually bug fixes) and the 13 says the compile or build number. Authors will frequently recompile to change registration keys to thwart pirates.



I have Windows on my computer. One of the applications I use will occasionally lock up. Im tired of re-booting, is there any alternative?

Possibly. If the crash is not to severe you can try bringing up the Task Manager by presing Ctrl-Alt and the Delete keys. Try "End-ing task" on the offending application. Finally, have you contacted the program vendor to see if there is a bug fix out yet?



For convience, I want to create a Shortcut on my Desktop that will launch one of my frequently used applications. Is that an easy way to do it?

Yes, right click (with your mouse) anywhere on the Desktop (screen), choose New/Shortcut then Browse to the executable file for your application, give your shortcut a name and click ok or finish. After the Shortcut appears, you can move it if you do not like its default location.



I realize this question will never get published, but what makes you a PC Expert?

Actually we enjoy humorous questions. However we first must agree on the definition of an Expert. We believe anyone who can remove a new PC from its boxes, connect all its cables, and get it to boot up, will soon be calling themselves an Expert! From there its only a matter of the length of time of exposure; something called experience. Therefore, almost everyone who owns a PC will one day be offering advice. The only important issue is does that advice work.



Can you explain in laymen terms what the word PATH means in my computer?

PATH relates to a unique location on your hard drive (or other media) where files are stored. In a sense, Path is similar to a street address in as much as it allows you to go to an exact location. The Browse button of many applications allows you to navigate (or move between) these folder paths. You can create new paths below existing paths and wind up with sub folders. Even sub sub folders. The most important thing is designing a good logical hierarchy or method to how you store your files so you remain organized.

Folders (a new word for drive directories) begin at what is called the Root of your hard drive, very much like entering the main door of a library. After entering you encounter aisles (primary folders) which further divide to shelves (sub folders) and rows of the shelves (sub sub folders) etc.

Its our opinion that the Root of a drive should never have more than maybe 10 main folders at max from which all other sub folders should branch out. However, its all a matter of personal design and what you as the operator, can keep track of.



I recently downloaded a program off the Net but I cannot seem to find it. Any ideas?

Assumming you know the name of the file, go to the Start button, Search or Find menu, for Files or folders. Enter the file name to find and the search will report back what /path/folder the file was downloaded to. If you forgot the file name, try a search using the date you downloaded it. You will likely get a lot of returns this way, but you should be able to ID the file you are looking for from the list returned.

In the future, we suggest you create a folder (perhaps called C:\DOWNLOAD) then, each time you download something new, you Browse to that folder to store it before the transfer begins. A common practice is to place all downloads and attachments on your desktop, but we don't recommend that because soon the desktop clutter will create overwhelming confusion if you get lax in PC housekeeping choirs.



I am confused. What is the difference between an ascii, text and binary file?

When microprocessors were designed, the Byte was adopted as the standard unit of information. A byte contains 8 bits, either represented by a ONE or a ZERO. The total possible combinations of bits in a byte are 2x2x2x2x2x2x2x2 OR 256 states. Each of these states can be defined by decimal numbers between 0 and 255 and more commonly, 0 thru FF hex. IBM decided to put all of the alphabet (both upper and lower case), including punctuation and control codes into the lower 127 slots. This range (between 0 and 127) became know as the ASCII range. Files with bytes in this range are also known as text files. Bytes below decimal 128 allow plain text messages to be transmitted in 7 bits. The range above 127 and up to 255 make up the so called "binary" range and contain characters that are generally never used in text files as they would appear unintelligible.

I realize you asked for a song and got a symphony, but bare with me a while longer. Much of the internet infrastructure (email in particular) was designed around 7 bit data transfer technology. This is why binary attachments to messages (like picture and program files) must be converted first to 7 bit ascii to be passed thru email servers. Then, on the received side, converted back again. Some of these conversion processes are knows as MIME, UUENCODE, BINHEX and BASE64. Now, go impress your friends!



Can you explain in laymen terms what the difference are between worms, trojans and spyware?

In our opinion, all those terms are general and overlap to some degree and are frequently used incorrectly by the media. A Trojan is a program you think does only one thing but contains hidden code, often malicious, that is designed for other purposes. Spyware is conventional software that "phones home" with info you may or may not wish to leave your PC. A worm and a virus are very similar, both try to infect other systems, can be triggered by user events, dates or times or any combinations thereof.


A friend gave me a printer that requirs a newer USB port but my older PC only has serial and parallel ports. Is there an adapter?

No, but assuming your PC motherboard has an available ISA or PCI card slot, the easy route would be to buy an inexpensive USB card ($10+-) that matches your available slot. Incidentally, USB2 is the latest downward compatible standard. And, if you are not aware of it, the upside to adding USB, aside from never having to worry over messy peripheral setup configurations, is the large number of devices a single USB line can accommodate.



Dear Technician: I recently upgraded my operating system (again), from W98 this time, to W2000. However I loved using FileManager that was always included with all previous versions of Windows. Not only is it gone from W2000 but the W98 version wont work in W2000. Second question, several of my Games will not play under W2000. How come? Please, HELP!

You are not alone, and, you are right. However, there is a solution. Find anyone using NT4, and beg a copy of WINFILE.EXE from them. The NT4 version will run fine on W2000 (or XP). BTW, Windows 2000 is actually NT5 :) As for dos "anything" (games - apps), a major change in W2000 is the elimination of command.com (the old DOS operating system that previous versions of Windows rode on top of. Now, a new dos emulator, called cmd.exe handles 80% of what the former real dos could do. Unfortunately, the emulator will not allow any program to directs access the machines hardware (which games in particularly were famous for). The only solution is to find an older dos boot disk and hope its a late enough version to support and read your drives.



I have been using AOL for years but am sick of the poor service and constant advertisments. I want to switch to a basic provider (ISP). Whats involved?

To independently use the Internet, you only need an ISP (internet Service Provider), a web browser and an email program. AOL was popular because their program had both built in, and it installed rather painlessly. However, Windows comes with a browser called Internet Explorer and an email program called Outlook Express. Granted many ISP's give you installation software, but forget that as you really do not need it if you are willing to follow a few basic steps. Your new ISP only has to setup your account with a username and password, and then provide you with his dialup phone number, the domain address of his SMTP and POP3 mail servers. Next, you will need to create a dialup Icon (called a Connectoid), then enter the domain information into your email clients setup configuration. Generally your username becomes your email handle preceeding the @ symbol. Creating a Connectoid icon on your desktop is rather easy but the exact steps depend on the version of Windows you are using.



My PC no longer keeps time after I turn it off. When its on and I set it, it keeps accurate time. What could be wrong? How can I fix that?

My best WAG is that your clock battery (usually a lithium coin battery - $5) installed in a black holder on the motherboard, is kaput. If you are not afraid to open the case, its usually an easy change. Otherwise, take it to a shop.



What does having a static Internet IP address versus a dynamic IP mean? And, how does a URL differ from an IP?

When you connect to the Internet, you are either assigned a new IP (dynamic) or fixed IP (static) that becomes your unique (Internet Postal) address on the Net. If your IP is dynamic (ever changing), it limits your ability to run servers (such as this web server) because no one can know your Net address at any given time. Imagine if your house address changed every day. A never changing, or static IP can be useful for peer to peer internet communications. Some services give static IP's, others charge extra for it. BTW, IP addresses currently consist of four byte (octet) numbers that range from 0 to 255. To increase the number of possible unique addresses, the Internet authority will soon be implementing six byte IP addresses.

A URL (Universal Resource Locator) is a verbalized form of an IP address. When the web was designed, verbose addresses were thought to be easier to remember than a series of IP numbers. However, every URL still represents a unique IP number. So, when you type a URL into the address window of a Browser, that verbose URL is first sent to a DNS (Domain Name Server) on the net where it is matched with its corresponding IP number and returned to your Browser, so it can locate the site you requested. Yes, if you know a web sites IP number, you can just enter that.



I want to start voice chatting, what is the best type of microphone to use on my computer?

Almost without exception, all computer sound cards use inexpensive Condenser Microphones, sometimes called Electrec types. Most sell for under $7. Typical dynamic (coil type) tape recorder microphones wont work properly.



I hate to sound like a newbie, but what is an optical mouse? a Trackball?

First generation mice used a rubber ball to detect motion over the operating surface. The newer optical mice use a laser to detect movement. The obvious big advantage is they work on literally any reasonably flat surface and there is no ball to clean. The downside to either mouse mentioned above is there must be room for it to move. If desktop space is scarce, a Trackball sits in just one location from which you roll the ball with your fingertips. Another nice feature of most Trackballs is having extra programmable buttons. Example, you could program an extra button to close an open web page or minimize an open application.



I use Microsoft's Internet Explorer for browsing the web. Can it be configured to always open a new window when I click on a link?; and is there a hot key to close popups?

To force Explorer (and most other Browsers) to open a link in a "new" window, hold the Shift key when you click the link. To close open popups, or any Window in focus, press the Ctrl and "W" keys.



I am looking for and old version of a freeware program. I am told it is likely stored on a University mainframe somewhere. Is there a way to find it?

Possibly. First, it will help a lot if you know the files exact handle, although knowing a few characters can sometimes work too. What you want is something called an FTP Search Engine. Due to piracy issues, the remaining few FTP search engines are now operated outside the USA. Typically, filenames follow conventions. Examine ABCV22.ZIP. Usually the 22 is the release or version number. If you want that "exact" file, use its entire handle. But if any version will do, use a GLOBAL (*) character and search on "ABCV*.ZIP". The * will return any characters after the V and before the period. Here are a few remaining FTP Search Engines, try
filesearching.com and ftpsearchengines.com and finally alltheweb.com


Everyone hypes Web search engines like Google, are there any special tricks to narrowing the search results?

Yes, there are a few simple rules. First, anything enclosed in quotes will search for an exact string match. Without quotes, any document that contains "all" of the words will be located. Example: "fast race horses" will only find documents with that complete string; without quotes, any document that contains all three words, scattered, separated etc. It might also pay to learn some Boolean operators such as OR, AND and NOT. Example: "fast race horses" NOT Arabian, would find all documents with the complete string but not containing the word Arabian. With a little practice you can narrow down the results from thousands to dozens, or at least hundreds.



Can my wife share my dialup Internet connection on her computer? and if so, how?

She most certainly can. Unfortunately it is not a quick, easy, or cost free task, and to make matters more complicated, there are several ways to go about it. However, here is MY recomendation. Each PC will need a NIC or Network card installed (buy Base 10/100 EitherNet at only $10 @ if your PC's do not already have NIC's pre installed). Depending on the Nic's jacks, and assuming only two PC's, you must use either thinline coax (rg-58 with BNC T fittings and 50 ohm terminators), or a RJ-45 crossover cable to connect them. Before proceeding, make sure the two PC's can PING each other (or communicate with each other). Next, obtain
Socks5 Proxy Server software for the PC connected to the Internet. Next and last, install Hummingbird Socks software (free) on the remote (wife's PC). If you manage all these hoops, you are up and running. An upside to all this is you can now also share printers, scanners and drives (if you activate sharing). Note: there are some security issues, but I will assume you trust your wife.


I plan to buy my first computer. Should I buy from a local clone builder, discount house, or a major builder like Gateway or Dell? And, are there any realistic alternatives to Windows for an operating system?

Local clone builders can rarely save you any money these days due to stiff competition. However they do offer some other advantages. 1) you can literally customize your computer with a wider range of peripheral choices; and 2) you have a local place for service. Only you can determine if any of these factors would be important to you. If you do go with a local clone builder, call BBB first. As for the major manufactures, you can get some sweet deals if you are willing to settle for less than the latest processors and peripherals.

For a new computer user, there is an alternative to Windows, called Lindows. Walmart sells inexpensive computers with Lindows pre installed. Lindows is technically a child of Linux (which is a child of UNIX) and is touted to be a crash proof OS with a wide variety of application availability. Lindows can also run many Windows programs as well. You can get more information
here.


I need to backup (on floppy disk) several data files every day. What is the easiest way to do it?

Assumming the files will fit on a standard 1.44mb floppy, I would recommend writing a simple BATCH file to do the job. Written correctly, you would only need launch a shortcut to the batch, and away you go. If the data files were larger than a 1.44 floppy, you could instruct the batch to first compress them.
Example of MYBACUP.BAT

CLS
@ECHO OFF
ECHO Yoda's BackUp Batch
ECHO.
ECHO Insert BAK floppy in Drive A: (Ctrl-C to Exit) -OR-
PAUSE
@ECHO ON
PKZIP C:\COMPANY.ZIP -u C:\COMPANY.DAT
XCOPY C:\COMPANY.ZIP A: /D /Y



My computer suddenly reboots for no apparent reason, can you offer hints to fix it?

You have my sympathies, but providing troubleshooting assistance is beyond the scope of this help column. However, you need to go through a tough process of elimination, starting with the power supply, motherboard and all peripherals.



I am considering leaving my dial up and upgrading to either DSL or Digital Cable. Can you outline the pros and cons of each service?

DSL typically sells bandwidth in tiers with faster speeds costing more money. The upside is the speed you pay for is relatively constant. For a house wired for one phone line you can simultaneously continue using your voice phone without interference to DSL. DSL may or may not charge extra for a static IP address. Availability of DSL service is limited by the length in miles of your homes wired connection to the switch (phone exchange office) where it terminates.

Digital Cable makes you a node (or terminal) on a neighborhood LAN or network. The speed (shared bandwidth) you have available at any given time is dependent on the number of active users on line in your area. An upside is that you can get up to 1.5 mega bits if no one else is online. Digital Cable typically provides a fixed IP.



I downloaded a program called viewer.zip, how do I install it?

Files with the extension of .ZIP are storage files that contain many other files in a compressed format. By reducing a group of files to one and reducing the overall size, it shortens download times. Storage files are also known as archive and or suitcase files. To install what they contain, the zip must first be un zipped. There are several popular and free unzipping utilities available for doing this. Check out
www.winzip.com


What is the least expensive way to improve the performance of my computer?

Without asking a lot of questions about your computer, the general answer is, "add more memory". RAM is dirt cheap and any PC using less than 256mb, will improve speed greatly by adding a full 256mb stick. Next to increasing RAM, add a newer IDE ATA high rpm Hard Drive. In most cases, just these two changes will significantly improve operations, more so than upgrading and doubling the CPU speed.



The amount of unsolicited email I receive is increasing daily. What can I do to stop it?

My best advice is to start using an email client (like Eudora, Pegasus etc), that provides for creating multiple mailboxes with an automated means of directing mail into them (commonly referred to as Filtering). Then, after setting up all your mailboxes, anything coming in and still remaining in your "IN" box, is spam. Like death and taxes, spam isn't going away anytime soon so its best to learn procedures to minimize the aggravation.



I noticed a PC the other day with hardly no Shortcuts appearing on the Desktop, how do you hide them and also, how can you manually create one?

Some user eventually learn to manage the Start button or the Quick Launch bar (depending on the version of windows they are running). Most new software comes with installation utilities that typically offer options as to "what" folder a program may be setup in as well as choices of where shortcuts should go. You should learn to manage these options if you wish to stay organized. To create a shortcut on your Desktop, right click anywhere on the open Desktop, chose New, then Shortcut. However there is no sin in having a cluttered Desktop if you can keep up with the clutter!



What is an "attachment" to e-mail?

An attachment is a convenient method to send someone a non text file such as a picture, document or application. Most all e-mail programs have the ability to send files this way. However, you should exercise extreme caution when receiving executable files (those with the extension .BAT or .PIF or .EXE or .COM) as viruses and worms are frequently passed that way.



My PC says I have no "association" when I double click to display a digital image, howcome?

A computer is helpless until it is told what to do. The extension of a file tells your PC what application it should use to view or load the file you double clicked on. It seems you are either missing the correct application or utility to run that file or need to create an association to it. For details on how to create an association, go to Start, Help and do a search on "association".



My computer keeps telling me it has no "Association" for a file I keep trying to double click and open. This used to work, whats going on?

Windows can be told what application to use to open a particular file. It does this by examining the extension of the file. Example, a file called mystuff.txt can be displayed on dozens of different applications. When you first get your computer, it probably is pre setup to use microsoft NOTEPAD.EXE Sometime later you might install a new text editor that "changes" the old association so as to run the newer text editor; however, you later decide to un install the new editor for whatever reasons. Whammo, no more working association. However, its an easy problem to fix. Just right click the file from within Windows Explorer, choose "open with", and reset the association to the application you want to start using.



I just connected my two PC's together with a NIC. I am running W2000P. Each time I want to use resources of the other PC I have to login. How can I automate that? Mostly I need to move files.

It sounds like you have different usernames and passwords on each of the two machines. It would have been easier if both PC's used the same ID's, then you would have had to do nothing. Now, go to Users and Passwords Icon in the Control Panel and set a new user on each machine with the username and password of the other. Give the new users Admin authority since security is not an issue.

Another trick is to MAP the remote PC's drive(s) to the Host PC (and or vice versa). If you MAP a drive on the Host from the remote, the remote PC usually must boot before the Host PC. This is so the Host can see the Remote when it boots and connects to your LAN. Otherwise you will be an error window saying Remote NOT found.



How can I do a quick Block, Copy and Paste?

Blocking text on screen, can be accomplished without the use of Menu's by first holding the left mouse button while dragging the cursor over the text to be blocked (or marked). When everything you want blocked is marked, release the left mouse button. Now press the Ctrl and "C" keys to COPY the marked text to the computers internal memory buffer. Next, place the cursor where you desire this stored text to go and press the Ctrl and "V" keys to paste it in that location. There is a very useful shareware utility called "ClipMate" that greatly automates these processes. Do a search on the word "clipmate" using www.google.com to locate the program. In addition, if you type "clipbrd" into the Run menu on XP, you can access XP's internal clipboard.



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