If you are having a technical issue with your computer, and you need assistance, your best bet is to call your manufacturers technical support line. In most cases, technical support is part of the package when you first purchased your computer. If, for some reason, you are unable to use your computer manufacturers help desk services, here are a few free help desk sites on the Internet.
Tech Support Guy claims to be the #1 tech support site on the web and can be found at http://www.helponthe.net. Tech Support Guy help desk site offers free assistance to users of Microsoft Windows 95, 98, NT, ME, 2000, XP and Linux.
This site is free because it is run completely by volunteers and is paid for by donations. Donations are requested but not required to use this site. The way this site works is that first you must search the topic of you problem. If you can’t find it, then you can post your technical issue on one of Tech Support Guy’s forum pages where other users of the site will try and assist you.
One positive aspect of this site is that it has an extensive forum of questions from previous users so you will most likely receive the answer to your technical issue pretty quickly. One negative aspect of this site is that it is up to you to find the answer to your technical issue. There isn’t a customer service support representative to walk you through your technical issue at this help desk.
5 S tar Support technical services can be found on the web at http://www.5starsupport.com. This help desk provides support to users of Windows, Linux, Internet Explorer, Outlook Express, Netscape, Windows Messenger, AOL, Networking troubleshooting, Microsoft Office Products.
Simply enter your technical issue in a web form that will be emailed to several volunteer technical support representatives and then wait to receive your reply back. You may receive several replies from several different representatives and each solution may be different. You may email the representative back if you are unable to satisfactorily fix your technical issue.
For people who want a solution faster, there is a method available where you can phone a computer support specialist and they can talk you through a solution to your technical issue. There is a small fee for this service however and can be purchased in annual, monthly or per incident increments.
Another service the 5 star offers is free PC help tutorials on topics such as Clean Installation of Windows XP, Install a Home Network, Configuring a Network Card and Partition a Hard Drive.
Suggest A Fix can be found at http://www.suggestafix.com. This site also is run by volunteers but is a free service. It is forum based as well and you need to take the time to scroll through the posting to find something that matches your particular issue. However, in the toolbar virus information and tutorials are also available as quick options.
The best thing about the forums is that you will usually receive good quality answers to your technical or general computing questions. There are a few dedicated people that seem to field a majority of the questions, so depending on the time and day; your answers may vary greatly.
About The Author
Joel Noah
The latest work of Joel Noah can be found at: http://www.help-desks.info/.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Become a More Creative Person
Used to be when we talk about generation gap, it almost always applies to the difference in thinking between the supposedly adult generation and the younger ones. Then, it was easier to understand because our parents used to say that it's all about difficult teenagers. Period.
However, the principle of generation gap has evolved in a different meaning particularly in the workplace. The trend nowadays is to have a more vibrant and creative staff working for companies. And who best exemplifies creativity and fun? The young, fine arts degree holders, who else.
A person with a fine arts degree used to have trouble in getting himself employed. But now, it's the companies who are getting as much as they can; recruiting young people with a fine arts background, believing that with creative staff aboard, they become more creative and innovative themselves. Especially that there's a growing belief nowadays that to stay ahead, companies should become more inventive, innovative and creative.
Nevertheless, you don't need to be a fine arts graduate to get inside the best companies. Or you get your own fine arts staff for your own company. You just need to enhance your creativity to get a crack of the business you have chosen. As the author of Vivation said, the idea that a few people are creative and the rest are not is definitely a myth. All we need is to let some of our infinite creative power leak through from the unconscious so we can apply it to our conscious state.
Or, we could always rely on software and programs available in the market to help us produce a creative and innovative environment for our company and business.
There is a barrage of applications from Adobe, Microsoft, and other software developers, to help us create better and vivid media materials that enhance our corporate identity.
At the TypoTechnica 2005 conference, Quark Inc. introduced QuarkXPress 7, an updated version of their page layout program. The program fully supports both Unicode and OpenType. With QuarkXPress7's support for Unicode, it provides a new feature called Font Fallback that allows users to specify a fall back and alternative fonts when a specified font does not contain a full set of glyphs for non-Roman characters. Furthermore, the program will support a total of around 23 OpenType features, including standard and discretionary ligatures and swashes.
On the other hand, Adobe's Creative Suite boasts having a complete design environment for print and Web publishing. They add that users will be able to create and publish content for print and the Web faster, more easily, and more affordably. The application has tools for creating artwork, editing images, creating photo compositions, and drawing vector graphics.
Then there's Microsoft's Digital Image Suite 9 and Digital Image Pro 9 that comes with wizards and tutorials that walk you through the process and help you get started right away. The software includes thousands of design templates to help you create projects not only for your business, but also for the home.
There are a lot of ways and means to let our creativity flow. We just have to use our minds to imagine fresh ways or put together already existing ideas and innovate, to make our company click with our target clients. And with new technology to help us, business life is simpler and easier.
About The Author
Granny's Mettle is a 30-something, professional web content writer. She has created various web content on a diverse range of topics, which includes digital printing topics, medical news, as well as legal issues. Her articles are composed of reviews, suggestions, tips and more for the printing and designing industry.
Her thoughts on writing: "Writing gives me pleasure… pleasure and excitement that you have created something to share with others. And with the wide world of the Internet, it gives me great satisfaction that my articles reach more people in the quickest time you could imagine."
On her spare time, she loves to stay at home, reading books on just about any topic she fancies, cooking a great meal, and taking care of her husband and kids.
For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.ucreative.com
articles@ucreative.com
However, the principle of generation gap has evolved in a different meaning particularly in the workplace. The trend nowadays is to have a more vibrant and creative staff working for companies. And who best exemplifies creativity and fun? The young, fine arts degree holders, who else.
A person with a fine arts degree used to have trouble in getting himself employed. But now, it's the companies who are getting as much as they can; recruiting young people with a fine arts background, believing that with creative staff aboard, they become more creative and innovative themselves. Especially that there's a growing belief nowadays that to stay ahead, companies should become more inventive, innovative and creative.
Nevertheless, you don't need to be a fine arts graduate to get inside the best companies. Or you get your own fine arts staff for your own company. You just need to enhance your creativity to get a crack of the business you have chosen. As the author of Vivation said, the idea that a few people are creative and the rest are not is definitely a myth. All we need is to let some of our infinite creative power leak through from the unconscious so we can apply it to our conscious state.
Or, we could always rely on software and programs available in the market to help us produce a creative and innovative environment for our company and business.
There is a barrage of applications from Adobe, Microsoft, and other software developers, to help us create better and vivid media materials that enhance our corporate identity.
At the TypoTechnica 2005 conference, Quark Inc. introduced QuarkXPress 7, an updated version of their page layout program. The program fully supports both Unicode and OpenType. With QuarkXPress7's support for Unicode, it provides a new feature called Font Fallback that allows users to specify a fall back and alternative fonts when a specified font does not contain a full set of glyphs for non-Roman characters. Furthermore, the program will support a total of around 23 OpenType features, including standard and discretionary ligatures and swashes.
On the other hand, Adobe's Creative Suite boasts having a complete design environment for print and Web publishing. They add that users will be able to create and publish content for print and the Web faster, more easily, and more affordably. The application has tools for creating artwork, editing images, creating photo compositions, and drawing vector graphics.
Then there's Microsoft's Digital Image Suite 9 and Digital Image Pro 9 that comes with wizards and tutorials that walk you through the process and help you get started right away. The software includes thousands of design templates to help you create projects not only for your business, but also for the home.
There are a lot of ways and means to let our creativity flow. We just have to use our minds to imagine fresh ways or put together already existing ideas and innovate, to make our company click with our target clients. And with new technology to help us, business life is simpler and easier.
About The Author
Granny's Mettle is a 30-something, professional web content writer. She has created various web content on a diverse range of topics, which includes digital printing topics, medical news, as well as legal issues. Her articles are composed of reviews, suggestions, tips and more for the printing and designing industry.
Her thoughts on writing: "Writing gives me pleasure… pleasure and excitement that you have created something to share with others. And with the wide world of the Internet, it gives me great satisfaction that my articles reach more people in the quickest time you could imagine."
On her spare time, she loves to stay at home, reading books on just about any topic she fancies, cooking a great meal, and taking care of her husband and kids.
For comments and inquiries about the article visit http://www.ucreative.com
articles@ucreative.com
Top 5 Reasons To Start a Web Site by: Wilson Davalos
Many of us have dream about starting a web site. In my experience I recall being in high school and day dreaming about how great it would be to have my own chatting service. I dreamed of a site with that ever popular space wallpaper, you know it’s black with the little stars on it.
Keep in touch with distant family and friends. You can create a very simple site where you can up load pictures of holiday parties and family gatherings. A calendar would be a great feature to have. Posting birthdays and anniversaries is a great way to have people coming back to your site.
Having an online resume is a great idea. Especially if you are an artistic technical person. I know plenty of artist that take advantage of this by creating beautiful resume. Now keep in mind you want to have a nice mix of style and usability, this is your resume. I would not suggest using a wild color scheme or pop ups.
Web presence for your local business. I love restaurants that have a copy of the menu. You can also do a history of how your company came together. You can also sell your goods and services. Paypal has a free shopping cart that you can use.
Meet people from all over the world with the same interest. Just about any hobby that you may have will have a website dedicated to it, why not start your own? You can have a website about your favorite artist, music, books, TV shows, famous personality; the list can go on and on. If you join a webring on your particular subject you will have tons of visitors that are looking for websites on your particular interest.
Learn something new. A few weeks ago my mom surprised me; she was building her own website. She has not been using the internet for too long but she already loves it. She is building a family tree. She has tons of pictures from weddings, birthdays, and family parties. She even has a message board where family members have dropped by and left little notes.
So in retrospect building a website can be a very satisfying experience. Nothing in the history of the world has joined so many people together from all different parts of the world. Enjoy yourself and try to find as many tutorials that you can find on building a website. You don’t need to invest a lot of time to learn the basic of building a website. With a few hours of work you can have a simple website. And remember that you website’s content is much more important that a website that is only flashy with outdated information.
About The Author
Wilson Davalos is the founder of http://laplounge.com "the best search on the net"
wilson@laplounge.com
Keep in touch with distant family and friends. You can create a very simple site where you can up load pictures of holiday parties and family gatherings. A calendar would be a great feature to have. Posting birthdays and anniversaries is a great way to have people coming back to your site.
Having an online resume is a great idea. Especially if you are an artistic technical person. I know plenty of artist that take advantage of this by creating beautiful resume. Now keep in mind you want to have a nice mix of style and usability, this is your resume. I would not suggest using a wild color scheme or pop ups.
Web presence for your local business. I love restaurants that have a copy of the menu. You can also do a history of how your company came together. You can also sell your goods and services. Paypal has a free shopping cart that you can use.
Meet people from all over the world with the same interest. Just about any hobby that you may have will have a website dedicated to it, why not start your own? You can have a website about your favorite artist, music, books, TV shows, famous personality; the list can go on and on. If you join a webring on your particular subject you will have tons of visitors that are looking for websites on your particular interest.
Learn something new. A few weeks ago my mom surprised me; she was building her own website. She has not been using the internet for too long but she already loves it. She is building a family tree. She has tons of pictures from weddings, birthdays, and family parties. She even has a message board where family members have dropped by and left little notes.
So in retrospect building a website can be a very satisfying experience. Nothing in the history of the world has joined so many people together from all different parts of the world. Enjoy yourself and try to find as many tutorials that you can find on building a website. You don’t need to invest a lot of time to learn the basic of building a website. With a few hours of work you can have a simple website. And remember that you website’s content is much more important that a website that is only flashy with outdated information.
About The Author
Wilson Davalos is the founder of http://laplounge.com "the best search on the net"
wilson@laplounge.com
Microsoft CRM Programming Techniques – overview for developer by: Andrew Karasev
Microsoft CRM is the CRM answer from Microsoft and it will have all the Microsoft Business Solutions muscles behind.
If you are developer who is asked: how do we customize Microsoft CRM – read this and you will have the clues on where to look further.
1. Microsoft CRM SDK – this is software development kit with C# and partly VB.net examples – it is supported by Microsoft Business Solutions technical support. It is all web services based calls, if you are C# .NET developer – you are excellently positioned to do this type of customizations. This is the preferred customization scenarios and this should be easily upgradeable customization.
2. Legacy SQL Data integration. This is also easy and safe. If you have SQL database, sitting on the same or linked SQL Server – you can create ASPX .Net application and simply integrate it into CRM. You can place it on the navigation bar or menu in isv.config – please refer to MS CRM SDK
3. Legacy ASP integration – this is somewhat more sophisticated. You have to deploy HTTP handler to be a middle party between CRM which is .Net based and ASP which is legacy IIS. The trick is – you have to have INI file with security settings to penetrate into MS CRM with proper credentials, calling web service.
4. Microsoft Exchange Programming. Microsoft CRM has Exchange connector – which moves CRM incoming email to MS if it has GUID in its subject. You can alter this logic (for instance - move email to CRM if it doesn’t have GUID but it is from the sender who is contact or account in MS CRM). Refer to MS Exchange SDK onsyncsave event handling. Then simply apply some MS CRM SDK programming
5. Direct SQL touch – in #4 above I described you the scenario with MS Exchange handlers – this would be ideal world if MS CRM SDK does the job. But – in real world this is not always true – you have to do direct flags correction in CRM database (like making Activity closed, moving email attachments/octet streams, etc). This is not supported by MBS technical support – but you can rescue to this technique if you have to make job done.
6. MS CRM Customization tool – you can feel free to use this – this is rather end-user tool and we don’t describe it here – read the manual. We’ve described above the options to use when this tool doesn’t do the job
Happy customizing! if you want us to do the job - give us a call 1-866-528-0577! help@albaspectrum.com
About The Author
Andrew Karasev is Chief Technology Officer in Alba Spectrum Technologies – USA nationwide Microsoft CRM, Microsoft Great Plains customization company, based in Chicago, California, Colorado, Texas, New York, Georgia and Florida, Canada, UK, Australia and having locations in multiple states and internationally (www.albaspectrum.com), he is Dexterity, SQL, C#.Net, Crystal Reports and Microsoft CRM SDK developer.
akarasev@albaspectrum.com
If you are developer who is asked: how do we customize Microsoft CRM – read this and you will have the clues on where to look further.
1. Microsoft CRM SDK – this is software development kit with C# and partly VB.net examples – it is supported by Microsoft Business Solutions technical support. It is all web services based calls, if you are C# .NET developer – you are excellently positioned to do this type of customizations. This is the preferred customization scenarios and this should be easily upgradeable customization.
2. Legacy SQL Data integration. This is also easy and safe. If you have SQL database, sitting on the same or linked SQL Server – you can create ASPX .Net application and simply integrate it into CRM. You can place it on the navigation bar or menu in isv.config – please refer to MS CRM SDK
3. Legacy ASP integration – this is somewhat more sophisticated. You have to deploy HTTP handler to be a middle party between CRM which is .Net based and ASP which is legacy IIS. The trick is – you have to have INI file with security settings to penetrate into MS CRM with proper credentials, calling web service.
4. Microsoft Exchange Programming. Microsoft CRM has Exchange connector – which moves CRM incoming email to MS if it has GUID in its subject. You can alter this logic (for instance - move email to CRM if it doesn’t have GUID but it is from the sender who is contact or account in MS CRM). Refer to MS Exchange SDK onsyncsave event handling. Then simply apply some MS CRM SDK programming
5. Direct SQL touch – in #4 above I described you the scenario with MS Exchange handlers – this would be ideal world if MS CRM SDK does the job. But – in real world this is not always true – you have to do direct flags correction in CRM database (like making Activity closed, moving email attachments/octet streams, etc). This is not supported by MBS technical support – but you can rescue to this technique if you have to make job done.
6. MS CRM Customization tool – you can feel free to use this – this is rather end-user tool and we don’t describe it here – read the manual. We’ve described above the options to use when this tool doesn’t do the job
Happy customizing! if you want us to do the job - give us a call 1-866-528-0577! help@albaspectrum.com
About The Author
Andrew Karasev is Chief Technology Officer in Alba Spectrum Technologies – USA nationwide Microsoft CRM, Microsoft Great Plains customization company, based in Chicago, California, Colorado, Texas, New York, Georgia and Florida, Canada, UK, Australia and having locations in multiple states and internationally (www.albaspectrum.com), he is Dexterity, SQL, C#.Net, Crystal Reports and Microsoft CRM SDK developer.
akarasev@albaspectrum.com
Road Runner Has A Fast Internet Connection by: Keith George
Road Runner is a division of Time Warner Inc providing internet service through cable most notably through the Time Warner Cable. It is an Internet Service Provider providing the service over DOCSIS compatible cable modems. Road Runner provides service across the United States. The companies which are offering Road Runner are Time Warner Cable, Insight Communications, Urban Cable Works, Bright House Networks and America Online.
Offer: Road Runner offers a super fast Internet connection through cable.
Road Runner provides a constant online connection, hence there is no need for dialing or any question of disconnecting from the internet. Also a great flexibility is available to the customer in the choice of the connection as there are no long term contracts or obligations to be signed.
Availability: Road Runner is available in Alabama, Arkansas, California, Florida, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Hawaii, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Texas, West Virginia and Wisconsin. However to confirm whether it is available in your street, you have to visit the website and enter your address. The website informs about the availability.
Features: Road Runner provides the modem, installation, tools and a good customer support. The extras include multiple email accounts, personal home page space, instant messaging, dial access/web mail etc. The speed is up to 8 Mbps (Mega bits per second). At this speed you can easily share or download movies, songs etc from the internet. Road Runner is also giving a 30 day money back guarantee in case you are not satisfied with their service.
Hardware: Hardware consists of a splitter to split the coaxial cable cord and one output goes to your TV and the other goes to the modem. From the modem the output goes to your computer. Your computer should have a USB port or an Ethernet card for connection. The modem also needs a power point.
Obtaining Road Runner: This is fairly simple. First go to the website and check availability at your place. The website will return various services available. Next choose the service of your liking. The modem and installation will be done by the company. If you want to save some money, you can obtain the installation kit from the Road Runner local representative and install the modem yourself.
Price: The average offer is around $45 a month with installation charges extra. Presently Road Runner is offering a $30 per month offer till September 06.
About The Author
Keith George always writes about valuable news & reviews.
A related resource is http://the-road-runner.info/
Further information can be found at http://the-wellbeing.info/
Offer: Road Runner offers a super fast Internet connection through cable.
Road Runner provides a constant online connection, hence there is no need for dialing or any question of disconnecting from the internet. Also a great flexibility is available to the customer in the choice of the connection as there are no long term contracts or obligations to be signed.
Availability: Road Runner is available in Alabama, Arkansas, California, Florida, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Hawaii, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Texas, West Virginia and Wisconsin. However to confirm whether it is available in your street, you have to visit the website and enter your address. The website informs about the availability.
Features: Road Runner provides the modem, installation, tools and a good customer support. The extras include multiple email accounts, personal home page space, instant messaging, dial access/web mail etc. The speed is up to 8 Mbps (Mega bits per second). At this speed you can easily share or download movies, songs etc from the internet. Road Runner is also giving a 30 day money back guarantee in case you are not satisfied with their service.
Hardware: Hardware consists of a splitter to split the coaxial cable cord and one output goes to your TV and the other goes to the modem. From the modem the output goes to your computer. Your computer should have a USB port or an Ethernet card for connection. The modem also needs a power point.
Obtaining Road Runner: This is fairly simple. First go to the website and check availability at your place. The website will return various services available. Next choose the service of your liking. The modem and installation will be done by the company. If you want to save some money, you can obtain the installation kit from the Road Runner local representative and install the modem yourself.
Price: The average offer is around $45 a month with installation charges extra. Presently Road Runner is offering a $30 per month offer till September 06.
About The Author
Keith George always writes about valuable news & reviews.
A related resource is http://the-road-runner.info/
Further information can be found at http://the-wellbeing.info/
Clean The Computer Of Spyware Entries With Reliable Software by: Arvind Singh
Spyware is malicious software that downloads onto a computer clandestinely. It makes entries in the registry and must be removed with Anti Spyware utilities.
'Spyware' is a term that refers to a very wide category of malicious software that has been intentionally designed to intercept or take partial control of a computer's operation without the consent of that computer's owner or lawful user. When the term 'Spyware' is taken in a literal sense, it suggests that the software clandestinely monitors the activities of the user operating the computer, however, it has over the years, come to be known as software that hampers the operating systems efficient functioning for the benefit of a third party, usually the person who created the Spyware. By downloading onto a system the Spyware will also make entries in the system registry. While it is imperative to remove the Spyware from the computer it is as imperative to remove all traces from the registry as well. This can be achieved with the help of Adware Spyware removal tool.
How Does It Affect The Computer?
'Spyware' is candid software that downloads itself onto a person's computer and constantly operates in the background and collects personal information of the user. For instance, it will record the entry from the keyboard every time the user enters a username and password or credit card details. The Spyware will monitor and record the information as well as which site the username and password was entered into. It will then mail this information to the host computer that the Spyware came from. In order to do this the Spyware must take over some processor time. It does this by delaying the operation of other programs or applications running on the system. This slows the system down drastically. The system can be revamped with free Adware Spyware removal utilities such as Quake removal Spyware tool.
Are Spyware Removal Utilities Not Enough?
Many Spyware removal utilities do remove the Spyware from the system but many of them cannot delve into the registry and remove all the entries therein. The registry will have to be scrubbed clean with special Spyware removal utility such as Quake removal Spyware utility software. Many of the Spyware entries will be associated with critical system files and so the anti-Spyware program will not delete them from the registry. Only a good Spyware removal utility such as Yahoo Spyware removal tool will scan the registry and detect the broken links and determine it they will hamper the efficient operating of the system if they are removed. If the Yahoo Spyware removal decides that they can be safely removed the entries will be deleted. If the entries are left in the registry they may link up to the site where they came from initially and download the Spyware again. This is why it is imperative to clean the registry with a reliable registry cleaner such as the free Microsoft Spyware Adware removal tool.
About The Author
Arvind Singh is admin and technical expert associated with development of computer security and performance enhancing software like Registry Cleaner, Window Cleaner, Anti Spam Filter etc. More information can be found at http://www.pcmantra.com
To know about the Registry Cleaner visit at: http://www.pcmantra.com/registry-cleaner.htm
Know more about Registry Cleaner?
Read Articles at : http://www.pcmantra.com/RegistryCleanerResource.aspx
'Spyware' is a term that refers to a very wide category of malicious software that has been intentionally designed to intercept or take partial control of a computer's operation without the consent of that computer's owner or lawful user. When the term 'Spyware' is taken in a literal sense, it suggests that the software clandestinely monitors the activities of the user operating the computer, however, it has over the years, come to be known as software that hampers the operating systems efficient functioning for the benefit of a third party, usually the person who created the Spyware. By downloading onto a system the Spyware will also make entries in the system registry. While it is imperative to remove the Spyware from the computer it is as imperative to remove all traces from the registry as well. This can be achieved with the help of Adware Spyware removal tool.
How Does It Affect The Computer?
'Spyware' is candid software that downloads itself onto a person's computer and constantly operates in the background and collects personal information of the user. For instance, it will record the entry from the keyboard every time the user enters a username and password or credit card details. The Spyware will monitor and record the information as well as which site the username and password was entered into. It will then mail this information to the host computer that the Spyware came from. In order to do this the Spyware must take over some processor time. It does this by delaying the operation of other programs or applications running on the system. This slows the system down drastically. The system can be revamped with free Adware Spyware removal utilities such as Quake removal Spyware tool.
Are Spyware Removal Utilities Not Enough?
Many Spyware removal utilities do remove the Spyware from the system but many of them cannot delve into the registry and remove all the entries therein. The registry will have to be scrubbed clean with special Spyware removal utility such as Quake removal Spyware utility software. Many of the Spyware entries will be associated with critical system files and so the anti-Spyware program will not delete them from the registry. Only a good Spyware removal utility such as Yahoo Spyware removal tool will scan the registry and detect the broken links and determine it they will hamper the efficient operating of the system if they are removed. If the Yahoo Spyware removal decides that they can be safely removed the entries will be deleted. If the entries are left in the registry they may link up to the site where they came from initially and download the Spyware again. This is why it is imperative to clean the registry with a reliable registry cleaner such as the free Microsoft Spyware Adware removal tool.
About The Author
Arvind Singh is admin and technical expert associated with development of computer security and performance enhancing software like Registry Cleaner, Window Cleaner, Anti Spam Filter etc. More information can be found at http://www.pcmantra.com
To know about the Registry Cleaner visit at: http://www.pcmantra.com/registry-cleaner.htm
Know more about Registry Cleaner?
Read Articles at : http://www.pcmantra.com/RegistryCleanerResource.aspx
Recovery From PC Failure Using Windows XP's Restore Point by: Otis Cooper
Have you ever done something to make an improvement and later regretted it?It would be awesome to be able to go back in time and undo the the thing that were supposed to make an improvement.
While life in general will not allow us to return to an earlier time to make changes, we computer users do have such an option should we experience problems with our Windows XP operating systems.
If you update or install the wrong device driver for your video card, and you delete accidentally delete a critical Windows file, so what.
You can simply use Windows XP's Restore Point feature and, Tada, you're back on track and recovered that deleted file.
Restore Points are snapshots of the state your operating system was in during that time.Windows XP automatically creates a restore point when it senses a major change in your operating system.And Restore Points are created every 24 hours as a safety measure.But you can create a Restore Point manually any time you feel there is a need.
If you have a change of some sort that causes problems with the operating system, you can tell Windows XP to revert to any Restore Point established before the problem occured.After the rollback, every change in the operating system that happened after that Restore Point is eliminated.
Restore Points are generally used when you experience such pc problems as extremely slow performance of the system. Your computer responds far more slowly that it did before you installed or updated something.
Other times to run Restore Point is when your system stops responding after an update or installation. Be sure to create a Restore Point before making any significant change to your computer's software or configuration.
To set a Restore Point, click on Start, point to All Programs, click on Accessories, System Tools, and then click on System Restore.When the System Restore windows appears, click on the button labeled "Create A Restore Point" and click Next.
Enter a description of the restore point, something like "Before scanner device driver install" and click the Create button.A notification will inform you that a Restore Point was made.Now click the Close button and you're all set.
Reverting to a Restore Point is as easy as create one.Click on Start, point to All Programs, click Accessories, System Tools, and System Restore.When the System Restore window appears, click on the "Restore My Computer To An Earlier Time" and then click on the Next button.
Choose the date on which you set the Restore Point and click the Next button.Review the information presented and save any open files.Shut down any other programs that may be running.
Click on the Next button and now your computer will restart. As it restarts, it will present a message informing you of the restore point. Click OK and you're done.
After reading all about setting and reverting to restore points, you should make a known restore point if you have not done so already.Whatever you do after reading this article, don't say I'll get to it soon.Familarize yourself with this feature and create a restore point one.
You should try Restore Point and see how it works before you need it.Create a Restore Point now and update something.You can update Windows Media Player for example.
After the update or the installation of a program,wait a day or so and go back to Restore Point.Revert to the Restore Point you created and see if the old version of Windows Media Player comes back.Or see if that old device driver is present.
Doing a simple task like this can and will boost your computer skills and give you much more confidence in yourself and the Windows XP operating system.
About The Author
Otis F. Cooper is solely dedicated to boosting the knowledge and confidence of every computer user. Sign up to receive his informative articles every month and learn PC Repair absolutely free. Sign up now at http://www.repairarticles.com.
While life in general will not allow us to return to an earlier time to make changes, we computer users do have such an option should we experience problems with our Windows XP operating systems.
If you update or install the wrong device driver for your video card, and you delete accidentally delete a critical Windows file, so what.
You can simply use Windows XP's Restore Point feature and, Tada, you're back on track and recovered that deleted file.
Restore Points are snapshots of the state your operating system was in during that time.Windows XP automatically creates a restore point when it senses a major change in your operating system.And Restore Points are created every 24 hours as a safety measure.But you can create a Restore Point manually any time you feel there is a need.
If you have a change of some sort that causes problems with the operating system, you can tell Windows XP to revert to any Restore Point established before the problem occured.After the rollback, every change in the operating system that happened after that Restore Point is eliminated.
Restore Points are generally used when you experience such pc problems as extremely slow performance of the system. Your computer responds far more slowly that it did before you installed or updated something.
Other times to run Restore Point is when your system stops responding after an update or installation. Be sure to create a Restore Point before making any significant change to your computer's software or configuration.
To set a Restore Point, click on Start, point to All Programs, click on Accessories, System Tools, and then click on System Restore.When the System Restore windows appears, click on the button labeled "Create A Restore Point" and click Next.
Enter a description of the restore point, something like "Before scanner device driver install" and click the Create button.A notification will inform you that a Restore Point was made.Now click the Close button and you're all set.
Reverting to a Restore Point is as easy as create one.Click on Start, point to All Programs, click Accessories, System Tools, and System Restore.When the System Restore window appears, click on the "Restore My Computer To An Earlier Time" and then click on the Next button.
Choose the date on which you set the Restore Point and click the Next button.Review the information presented and save any open files.Shut down any other programs that may be running.
Click on the Next button and now your computer will restart. As it restarts, it will present a message informing you of the restore point. Click OK and you're done.
After reading all about setting and reverting to restore points, you should make a known restore point if you have not done so already.Whatever you do after reading this article, don't say I'll get to it soon.Familarize yourself with this feature and create a restore point one.
You should try Restore Point and see how it works before you need it.Create a Restore Point now and update something.You can update Windows Media Player for example.
After the update or the installation of a program,wait a day or so and go back to Restore Point.Revert to the Restore Point you created and see if the old version of Windows Media Player comes back.Or see if that old device driver is present.
Doing a simple task like this can and will boost your computer skills and give you much more confidence in yourself and the Windows XP operating system.
About The Author
Otis F. Cooper is solely dedicated to boosting the knowledge and confidence of every computer user. Sign up to receive his informative articles every month and learn PC Repair absolutely free. Sign up now at http://www.repairarticles.com.
The Power of Web Directories
Web directories are an important component to search engine positioning. Directories come in all shapes and sizes, some are generic, while others are highly specialized. Directories, are defined as categorized topics or collections of information organized into a tree like structure where categories are used to define each groups association.
Large directories like Yahoo tend to have general themes and may charge for listings. While smaller niche directories like http://www.finance-investing.com offer free listings and profit from advertising revenue or pay per click models like Google AdSense.
Being listed in a directory not only brings in targeted traffic, it provides a one-way link from a website with similar content. Directories are generally highly ranked in search engines, and are considered well respected resources, two traits that are desirable in link partners.
While smaller directories that focus on a specific niche might generate less traffic, the quality of the traffic from a niche site is usually highly targeted and will be superior to that generated from general search engines.
If you are selling fire alarms, traffic from yahoo will be less qualified than traffic from Alarm Tools, http://www.alarm-tools.net . Most visitors to Alarm Tools will have a genuine interest in alarms and alerting systems. The nature of highly specialized directories result in visitors who have a serious interest in the directories theme, or a at the very least an interest in a theme related to the directory.
As a result, web publishers need to make a conscience effort not to ignore the value of directory listings. Regardless of their size, a related niche directory listing can be extremely valuable.
Many directories offer sponsorship opportunities. Vendors can optionally purchase sponsorship to increased their exposure with a bold listing or top category listings.
Determining a Directories Value
It is difficult to assess the value of directory listing, as there is an obvious advantage to a listing of a closely related theme directory that is difficult to measure and quantify. In general, webmasters can use common web guidelines to determine the popularity of a directory and assess the directory link's value.
To assess the value of a web directory, consider the PageRank of the webpage where the link placement of your site will occur. The PageRank is indicative of how important Google may find a specific page. Another reliable third party measuring tool is Alexa. The Alexa ranking provides insight into how popular a website is. In general, a link from a web page containing a PageRank of 5 or higher is considered very good. A link from a site in Alexa's top 100,000 is also generally very desirable.
Compare the following two directories' Monitoring Tools http://www.monitoring-tools.net and RSS Specifications http://www.rss-specifications.com. Monitoring Tools' main page has a PageRank of 5 but most internal pages that contain links have low page ranks and the overall Alexa ranking of the site is over 650,000. While RSS Specification's claims a main Google PageRank of 6 and subpages all contain a minimum of a 5 for PageRank, the overall site is ranked 32,000. Clearly if you are in the syndication business, RSS Specification's would be a very desirable link partner, while you would have to weigh the cost benefit and position of a link from Monitoring Tools.
To determine a sites PageRank without downloading the Google Toolbar, use the following online tool from RustyBrick http://www.rustybrick.com/pagerank-prediction.php . A website's Alexa ranking can be found by entering the URL into Alexa http://www.alexa.com.
It is recommended that PageRank and Alexa ranking be only used as a guide when determining a directories reputation. It is important not to get too caught up in either Google PageRank or Alexa Ranking as webmasters can use "tricks" to artificially inflate their numbers.
The bottom line, links from directories that are small but niche, can provide quality web traffic.
About The Author
Sharon Housley manages marketing for FeedForAll http://www.feedforall.com software for creating, editing, publishing RSS feeds and podcasts. In addition Sharon manages marketing for FeedForDev http://www.feedfordev.com an RSS component for developers.
Large directories like Yahoo tend to have general themes and may charge for listings. While smaller niche directories like http://www.finance-investing.com offer free listings and profit from advertising revenue or pay per click models like Google AdSense.
Being listed in a directory not only brings in targeted traffic, it provides a one-way link from a website with similar content. Directories are generally highly ranked in search engines, and are considered well respected resources, two traits that are desirable in link partners.
While smaller directories that focus on a specific niche might generate less traffic, the quality of the traffic from a niche site is usually highly targeted and will be superior to that generated from general search engines.
If you are selling fire alarms, traffic from yahoo will be less qualified than traffic from Alarm Tools, http://www.alarm-tools.net . Most visitors to Alarm Tools will have a genuine interest in alarms and alerting systems. The nature of highly specialized directories result in visitors who have a serious interest in the directories theme, or a at the very least an interest in a theme related to the directory.
As a result, web publishers need to make a conscience effort not to ignore the value of directory listings. Regardless of their size, a related niche directory listing can be extremely valuable.
Many directories offer sponsorship opportunities. Vendors can optionally purchase sponsorship to increased their exposure with a bold listing or top category listings.
Determining a Directories Value
It is difficult to assess the value of directory listing, as there is an obvious advantage to a listing of a closely related theme directory that is difficult to measure and quantify. In general, webmasters can use common web guidelines to determine the popularity of a directory and assess the directory link's value.
To assess the value of a web directory, consider the PageRank of the webpage where the link placement of your site will occur. The PageRank is indicative of how important Google may find a specific page. Another reliable third party measuring tool is Alexa. The Alexa ranking provides insight into how popular a website is. In general, a link from a web page containing a PageRank of 5 or higher is considered very good. A link from a site in Alexa's top 100,000 is also generally very desirable.
Compare the following two directories' Monitoring Tools http://www.monitoring-tools.net and RSS Specifications http://www.rss-specifications.com. Monitoring Tools' main page has a PageRank of 5 but most internal pages that contain links have low page ranks and the overall Alexa ranking of the site is over 650,000. While RSS Specification's claims a main Google PageRank of 6 and subpages all contain a minimum of a 5 for PageRank, the overall site is ranked 32,000. Clearly if you are in the syndication business, RSS Specification's would be a very desirable link partner, while you would have to weigh the cost benefit and position of a link from Monitoring Tools.
To determine a sites PageRank without downloading the Google Toolbar, use the following online tool from RustyBrick http://www.rustybrick.com/pagerank-prediction.php . A website's Alexa ranking can be found by entering the URL into Alexa http://www.alexa.com.
It is recommended that PageRank and Alexa ranking be only used as a guide when determining a directories reputation. It is important not to get too caught up in either Google PageRank or Alexa Ranking as webmasters can use "tricks" to artificially inflate their numbers.
The bottom line, links from directories that are small but niche, can provide quality web traffic.
About The Author
Sharon Housley manages marketing for FeedForAll http://www.feedforall.com software for creating, editing, publishing RSS feeds and podcasts. In addition Sharon manages marketing for FeedForDev http://www.feedfordev.com an RSS component for developers.
What is Shareware?
What is Shareware?
Shareware is software that you can try before you buy; shareware is a kind of marketing method for software. Software developers post trial versions of their software on websites. Consumers can then download the trial version to their computer and evaluate it. If the consumer likes the software they can purchase it. Shareware is also called try before you buy.
Today almost every big software company including Microsoft, Winzip, and AOL use trial versions or a form of shareware to market their software.
Why is shareware better than any other marketing method?
Shareware is a good way to market software. It allows consumers to evaluate an application prior to making a purchase decision. They can easily determine if it meets their business or personal needs, which usually results to a satisfied customer. In addition because shareware companies are often small they can provide personalized service that is not found in larger companies. Shareware also allows for instant gratification, there is no need to wait for a shipment. Consumers can download and use the software immediately.
Freeware vs. Shareware.
As you know shareware is a marketing method for software. Freeware is also a way of marketing software. However, freeware is free so the developer does not ever request any money. Shareware is free to distribute but cannot be used for an unlimited amount of time, unless the developer is paid. Freeware can be used an unlimited amount of time and can be freely distributed; payment is not required. Many developers use freeware to draw attention to their shareware applications.
What is software piracy?
There are several kinds of software piracy. One kind of software piracy is hacking into software and disabling the copy protection. Software pirates then distribute or sell the hacked software. The developer does not receive any money for the software the hacker distributed. This is an infringement on the developer's copyright.
Another technique used by hackers is to illegally obtain a registered copy of software. Pirates purchase the software once and use it on multiple computers. Purchasing software with a stolen credit card is another form of software piracy. Unfortunately there are many kinds of software piracy that has slowed the industry's growth. In order for developers to continue to develop software and provide support the software needs to be profitable.
Registration Incentives.
A registration incentive is something that makes the person using the shareware version of the software want to buy. There are a number of incentives developers use to encourage users to buy. One popular registration incentive is to limit the time of the trial version. This is clever because then the user can't use the shareware version forever. It encourages them to buy the software so they can continue to use it when the trial period is over.
Often shareware versions will have "grayed out" features on the menu that the consumer can see, but not use. Typically there is a pop-up windows in the software encouraging users to register in order to take advantage of the additional features. This is a popular registration method because if the person wants to do more things with the program, then they are forced to buy the registered version of the software.
Another innovative registration incentive shareware developers use allows customers to receive discounts on other software once they have purchased the registered version.
Developers also provide support incentives. The shareware version of software will have everything the registered version has, however, if a person buys the registered version of the software he/she will receive tech support, newsletters, and upgrades. Developers can also limit the number of times you can use the shareware version of the product. The trial version may expire after 10 uses meaning the user has to register if they wish to continue using the software.
Shareware now and how the term changed.
Though the meaning of the term shareware has not changed the perception of shareware has evolved since it began. At first when you had a shareware program there was a note that asked for a donation. Now you are required to pay for the registered version of the shareware program. The shareware industry has also evolved and grown into a billion dollar industry.
About The Author
Dan Housley is currently a student interning with NotePage, Inc. http://www.notepage.net developers of SMS and wireless messaging software and Software Marketing Resource http://www.softwaremarketingresource.com.
Shareware is software that you can try before you buy; shareware is a kind of marketing method for software. Software developers post trial versions of their software on websites. Consumers can then download the trial version to their computer and evaluate it. If the consumer likes the software they can purchase it. Shareware is also called try before you buy.
Today almost every big software company including Microsoft, Winzip, and AOL use trial versions or a form of shareware to market their software.
Why is shareware better than any other marketing method?
Shareware is a good way to market software. It allows consumers to evaluate an application prior to making a purchase decision. They can easily determine if it meets their business or personal needs, which usually results to a satisfied customer. In addition because shareware companies are often small they can provide personalized service that is not found in larger companies. Shareware also allows for instant gratification, there is no need to wait for a shipment. Consumers can download and use the software immediately.
Freeware vs. Shareware.
As you know shareware is a marketing method for software. Freeware is also a way of marketing software. However, freeware is free so the developer does not ever request any money. Shareware is free to distribute but cannot be used for an unlimited amount of time, unless the developer is paid. Freeware can be used an unlimited amount of time and can be freely distributed; payment is not required. Many developers use freeware to draw attention to their shareware applications.
What is software piracy?
There are several kinds of software piracy. One kind of software piracy is hacking into software and disabling the copy protection. Software pirates then distribute or sell the hacked software. The developer does not receive any money for the software the hacker distributed. This is an infringement on the developer's copyright.
Another technique used by hackers is to illegally obtain a registered copy of software. Pirates purchase the software once and use it on multiple computers. Purchasing software with a stolen credit card is another form of software piracy. Unfortunately there are many kinds of software piracy that has slowed the industry's growth. In order for developers to continue to develop software and provide support the software needs to be profitable.
Registration Incentives.
A registration incentive is something that makes the person using the shareware version of the software want to buy. There are a number of incentives developers use to encourage users to buy. One popular registration incentive is to limit the time of the trial version. This is clever because then the user can't use the shareware version forever. It encourages them to buy the software so they can continue to use it when the trial period is over.
Often shareware versions will have "grayed out" features on the menu that the consumer can see, but not use. Typically there is a pop-up windows in the software encouraging users to register in order to take advantage of the additional features. This is a popular registration method because if the person wants to do more things with the program, then they are forced to buy the registered version of the software.
Another innovative registration incentive shareware developers use allows customers to receive discounts on other software once they have purchased the registered version.
Developers also provide support incentives. The shareware version of software will have everything the registered version has, however, if a person buys the registered version of the software he/she will receive tech support, newsletters, and upgrades. Developers can also limit the number of times you can use the shareware version of the product. The trial version may expire after 10 uses meaning the user has to register if they wish to continue using the software.
Shareware now and how the term changed.
Though the meaning of the term shareware has not changed the perception of shareware has evolved since it began. At first when you had a shareware program there was a note that asked for a donation. Now you are required to pay for the registered version of the shareware program. The shareware industry has also evolved and grown into a billion dollar industry.
About The Author
Dan Housley is currently a student interning with NotePage, Inc. http://www.notepage.net developers of SMS and wireless messaging software and Software Marketing Resource http://www.softwaremarketingresource.com.
Windows XP: Use the Security Center to View Virus ProtectionWindows XP: Use the Security Center to View Virus ProtectionWindows XP: Use the Security C
The Windows XP Security Center is not a well-known feature of the operating system. The security center was introduced as part of the Service Pack 2 release. Some people like it and some people don’t like it at all. If you don’t have the service pack 2 already installed, you need to do that now by updating your Windows XP. You can do this using the update feature of XP or simply go to the Microsoft website and search for SP2. Here is a link to the Microsoft site if you need more information-- http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/sp2/default.mspx
To access the Security Center, you go to the Start button, All Programs, Accessories, then System Tools. Click on the Security Center and it will bring up a window with the current system status. To view the Virus Protection recommendations, click the Recommendations button under this option. You will see the recommendations based on your current system.
You can get information on how antivirus programs work as well as information on different types of viruses by clicking on How Does Antivirus Software Protect My System help topic link in the Windows Security Center.
How to Disable Security Center Alerts
If you're running Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) Windows Security Center will tell you the status of your antivirus software, firewall, and automatic updates. The Security Center will alert you if your antivirus is out of date or turned off, firewall is turned off, or if Automatic Update is not turned on.
If you have received multiple alerts and would like to turn notifications off, you can disable the antivirus, firewall, or automatic update alerts.
Turning off these alerts could be dangerous because you won’t know if your system is vulnerable. But if you are an experienced user, then you most likely have a strategy and tactic for checking your system.
To turn off Security Center alerts
1. Click Start and then click Control Panel.
2. Double-click Security Center.
3. In the Security Center, under Resources, click Change the way Security Center alerts me.
4. In the Alert Settings dialog box, clear the Firewall, Automatic Updates, or Virus Protection check boxes, and then click OK.
The Windows XP Security Center can be a real advantage to some users and keep your system protected, but for others in gets in the way. You make the call.
About The Author
John Chapman is certified computer technician with over 15 years experience. Please visit http://www.cheap-discount-computer-parts.com for more information on computer hardware and software
To access the Security Center, you go to the Start button, All Programs, Accessories, then System Tools. Click on the Security Center and it will bring up a window with the current system status. To view the Virus Protection recommendations, click the Recommendations button under this option. You will see the recommendations based on your current system.
You can get information on how antivirus programs work as well as information on different types of viruses by clicking on How Does Antivirus Software Protect My System help topic link in the Windows Security Center.
How to Disable Security Center Alerts
If you're running Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) Windows Security Center will tell you the status of your antivirus software, firewall, and automatic updates. The Security Center will alert you if your antivirus is out of date or turned off, firewall is turned off, or if Automatic Update is not turned on.
If you have received multiple alerts and would like to turn notifications off, you can disable the antivirus, firewall, or automatic update alerts.
Turning off these alerts could be dangerous because you won’t know if your system is vulnerable. But if you are an experienced user, then you most likely have a strategy and tactic for checking your system.
To turn off Security Center alerts
1. Click Start and then click Control Panel.
2. Double-click Security Center.
3. In the Security Center, under Resources, click Change the way Security Center alerts me.
4. In the Alert Settings dialog box, clear the Firewall, Automatic Updates, or Virus Protection check boxes, and then click OK.
The Windows XP Security Center can be a real advantage to some users and keep your system protected, but for others in gets in the way. You make the call.
About The Author
John Chapman is certified computer technician with over 15 years experience. Please visit http://www.cheap-discount-computer-parts.com for more information on computer hardware and software
The Year of Spyware
In retrospect, the year 2004 made significant milestones that will forever change the future of internet spyware related issues. Various spyware issues were addressed and a fast growing market evolved around spyware.
Prior to the past year, spyware was a term that could refer to almost anything Internet-related (from innocuous cookies and applets to keyloggers and hacker exploits) and was largely unaddressed.
By April 2004, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the U.S. Congress managed to define spyware as “software that aids in gathering information about a person or organization without their knowledge and which may send such information to another entity without the consumer’s consent, or asserts control over a computer without the consumer’s knowledge” and as early as January in the past year, various bills aimed at curtailing spyware were being drafted by the U.S. Congress, and some were passed into law as late as October in the year.
Many spyware companies cleverly evaded legislation while making their products more resistant to removal. Spyware remained a growing problem which routinely annoyed computer users. Some spyware install unwanted toolbars, display pop-up ads, modify system files, change security zone settings, change browser home pages, record and transmit user keystrokes to unknown third parties.
While free anti-spyware products such as Spybot Search & Destroy and Lavasoft Inc.'s Ad-Aware helped in remedying the situation, companies marketing their anti-spyware products exacerbated the problem: by realizing that their business model wasn’t naturally watertight, many resulted to coaxing customers into purchasing their software.
The FTC, in response to this development, filed a case in October 2004 against Seismic Entertainment Productions Inc. and SmartBot.Net Inc., accusing the companies of secretly installing unsolicited software on computers, causing systems to be overwhelmed by pop-up advertisements, and then sending them alarming messages saying they needed to buy "Spy Wiper" or "Spy Deleter" for $30.
Other anti-spyware companies have taken subtler approaches. For instance; install Computer Associate's eTrust PestPatrol (version 5.0.0.0, DAT versions 9/22/2004 was used in our tests), a popular anti-spyware product, on a new computer with a fresh installation of Windows XP Home (Version 2002 SP1 was used in our tests), make sure you have opened Microsoft internet explorer at least once previously (you may need to complete the Internet Connection Wizard but you do not need to connect to the Internet), then direct eTrust PestPatrol to run a scan for spyware and it will surely find “pests” on the brand new unconnected computer. In fact in our tests it found two with one labeled “System Spy”. Such scans are usually the basis for fallacious claims by anti-spyware companies that 9 out of 10 Internet-connected PCs are infected with spyware which in turn spreads more fear, uncertainty and doubt.
Industry analysts at IDC and Wachovia Securities expect the anti-spyware software market to grow from the current US$90 million to US$305-US$400 million by 2008. Already security software behemoths McAfee and Symantec have included anti-spyware solutions to their range of products. Other heavyweights such as Yahoo, EarthLink and much recently, Microsoft, have stepped into the market.
In particular, Microsoft’s entry into the anti-Spyware business may have sounded the death knell for smaller anti-spyware companies whose main clientele; the desktop/consumer market, may prefer Microsoft’s offering since it is widely expected that Microsoft’s anti-spyware solution will be superior and more candid.
About The Author
“What you don’t know CAN hurt you(TM).” - Developers of the e-Surveiller monitoring and surveillance software, in use by enterprises, banks, educational institutions, libraries, small business and home users. e-Surveiller has received diverse media coverage and was recently featured on WXIA-TV ATLANTA.
SurveilleTech is committed to protecting customer privacy and legality and enlightening the public on spyware related issues. Learn more about SurveilleTech at http://www.surveilletech.com
Prior to the past year, spyware was a term that could refer to almost anything Internet-related (from innocuous cookies and applets to keyloggers and hacker exploits) and was largely unaddressed.
By April 2004, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the U.S. Congress managed to define spyware as “software that aids in gathering information about a person or organization without their knowledge and which may send such information to another entity without the consumer’s consent, or asserts control over a computer without the consumer’s knowledge” and as early as January in the past year, various bills aimed at curtailing spyware were being drafted by the U.S. Congress, and some were passed into law as late as October in the year.
Many spyware companies cleverly evaded legislation while making their products more resistant to removal. Spyware remained a growing problem which routinely annoyed computer users. Some spyware install unwanted toolbars, display pop-up ads, modify system files, change security zone settings, change browser home pages, record and transmit user keystrokes to unknown third parties.
While free anti-spyware products such as Spybot Search & Destroy and Lavasoft Inc.'s Ad-Aware helped in remedying the situation, companies marketing their anti-spyware products exacerbated the problem: by realizing that their business model wasn’t naturally watertight, many resulted to coaxing customers into purchasing their software.
The FTC, in response to this development, filed a case in October 2004 against Seismic Entertainment Productions Inc. and SmartBot.Net Inc., accusing the companies of secretly installing unsolicited software on computers, causing systems to be overwhelmed by pop-up advertisements, and then sending them alarming messages saying they needed to buy "Spy Wiper" or "Spy Deleter" for $30.
Other anti-spyware companies have taken subtler approaches. For instance; install Computer Associate's eTrust PestPatrol (version 5.0.0.0, DAT versions 9/22/2004 was used in our tests), a popular anti-spyware product, on a new computer with a fresh installation of Windows XP Home (Version 2002 SP1 was used in our tests), make sure you have opened Microsoft internet explorer at least once previously (you may need to complete the Internet Connection Wizard but you do not need to connect to the Internet), then direct eTrust PestPatrol to run a scan for spyware and it will surely find “pests” on the brand new unconnected computer. In fact in our tests it found two with one labeled “System Spy”. Such scans are usually the basis for fallacious claims by anti-spyware companies that 9 out of 10 Internet-connected PCs are infected with spyware which in turn spreads more fear, uncertainty and doubt.
Industry analysts at IDC and Wachovia Securities expect the anti-spyware software market to grow from the current US$90 million to US$305-US$400 million by 2008. Already security software behemoths McAfee and Symantec have included anti-spyware solutions to their range of products. Other heavyweights such as Yahoo, EarthLink and much recently, Microsoft, have stepped into the market.
In particular, Microsoft’s entry into the anti-Spyware business may have sounded the death knell for smaller anti-spyware companies whose main clientele; the desktop/consumer market, may prefer Microsoft’s offering since it is widely expected that Microsoft’s anti-spyware solution will be superior and more candid.
About The Author
“What you don’t know CAN hurt you(TM).” - Developers of the e-Surveiller monitoring and surveillance software, in use by enterprises, banks, educational institutions, libraries, small business and home users. e-Surveiller has received diverse media coverage and was recently featured on WXIA-TV ATLANTA.
SurveilleTech is committed to protecting customer privacy and legality and enlightening the public on spyware related issues. Learn more about SurveilleTech at http://www.surveilletech.com
High Speed Internet Connection
Internet has almost become a lifeline for the new generation. Many businesses now depend entirely on the Internet. People residing in different parts of world are able to talk to each other via the medium of Internet. Video conferencing is a live example of it. Many marriages are also made with the help of the Internet. The list of benefits that Internet provides is limitless.
But, what would you do when you have a slow speed internet connection that takes a lot of time? That internet connection would simply be useless to you.
The speed at which you are connected to the Internet plays a very important role in enjoying the advantages offered by it. For example, suppose one of your relatives who is residing overseas, has sent you a holiday clip. Now, if your Internet speed is slow then first of all it would take a long time to load the mail website. Then you would enter your user name and password. It would again take extra time to verify it. Also, downloading the clip would be very slow, even if its size is very small. Overall, you can say that having a low speed Internet connection (dial-up connection) is not a good thing.
There are many choices available for a high speed Internet connection. DSL, Cable and Satellite are some of them. You can select the best one from them. Here are some of the common benefits that all these high speed Internet connections provide.
* Viewing of streamlining clips or videos is very easy and fast in these connections. Dial-up connections may not even allow their access. * You can upload web pages and download any kind of information or software with more than twice the speed of dial-up connection. * Downloading of images and huge e-mail files can be done almost promptly. * High speed Internet connection has proven to be a boon for all businessmen. They can now access the world wide web within a few seconds. Their businesses have been highly benefited through efficient and quick video conferencing which would have been impossible in a slow dial-up connection. * For those people who work from home, a high speed Internet connection can assist them in increasing their overall work efficiency and output. * On a long term basis, the high speed Internet connection can prove to be highly economical.
DSL: The best choice for high speed internet connection Now-a-days, DSL has become the leading choice for a high speed Internet connection. DSL works on existing telephone lines. With a DSL connection you can browse the web and talk on the phone at the same time. Generally, a DSL connection requires a DSL router, a dedicated phone line and a network card or a modem for each system. The installation of DSL at your location is the responsibility of the service provider. Last but not the least, this high speed Internet connection is offered at very affordable prices
But, what would you do when you have a slow speed internet connection that takes a lot of time? That internet connection would simply be useless to you.
The speed at which you are connected to the Internet plays a very important role in enjoying the advantages offered by it. For example, suppose one of your relatives who is residing overseas, has sent you a holiday clip. Now, if your Internet speed is slow then first of all it would take a long time to load the mail website. Then you would enter your user name and password. It would again take extra time to verify it. Also, downloading the clip would be very slow, even if its size is very small. Overall, you can say that having a low speed Internet connection (dial-up connection) is not a good thing.
There are many choices available for a high speed Internet connection. DSL, Cable and Satellite are some of them. You can select the best one from them. Here are some of the common benefits that all these high speed Internet connections provide.
* Viewing of streamlining clips or videos is very easy and fast in these connections. Dial-up connections may not even allow their access. * You can upload web pages and download any kind of information or software with more than twice the speed of dial-up connection. * Downloading of images and huge e-mail files can be done almost promptly. * High speed Internet connection has proven to be a boon for all businessmen. They can now access the world wide web within a few seconds. Their businesses have been highly benefited through efficient and quick video conferencing which would have been impossible in a slow dial-up connection. * For those people who work from home, a high speed Internet connection can assist them in increasing their overall work efficiency and output. * On a long term basis, the high speed Internet connection can prove to be highly economical.
DSL: The best choice for high speed internet connection Now-a-days, DSL has become the leading choice for a high speed Internet connection. DSL works on existing telephone lines. With a DSL connection you can browse the web and talk on the phone at the same time. Generally, a DSL connection requires a DSL router, a dedicated phone line and a network card or a modem for each system. The installation of DSL at your location is the responsibility of the service provider. Last but not the least, this high speed Internet connection is offered at very affordable prices
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