Dear viewers,
I don't know how many of you may have experienced this problem.
All of a sudden, font size in text boxes on Internet Explorer and some other browser and even regular programs and applications installed in your computer become so small that you can hardly read the text. The same happens when you try to input text for a search on Google, Yahoo etc.,it is so minuscule and hard to read. The font in the buttons under text boxes is so small and barely readable ...all other text is fine.
The problem with the tiny fonts is not just limited to text boxes in web pages. The tiny fonts are also displayed in windows for local applications like the control center for Norton Internet Security and others.
These issues seem to show sometimes after a Windows update, installation or un-installation of a program or application, or even more frustrating for no apparent reason...
In some cases, the "tiny" fonts show within various applications, seemingly not caused by the applications themselves since it happens in unrelated programs; and even more frustrating, many of the programs fonts are just fine, only a select few are very, very small.
I had never experienced this issue, (until last week), in a computer I built for a friend of mine. I transferred all the files and data from her old computer to the new computer I built, using a very handy program by Microsoft, called "Windows Easy Transfer".
This program is very useful because it does away with having to copy all files and data from the old computer to the new, one by one. It saves a lot of aggravation and saves a lot of time in the process too.
All went well but the following day my friend called me and said, "George I don't know what is wrong, but when I try to fill out my name and address in certain text boxes, the font is so small I cannot read it! Also some text boxes within Internet Explorer have so tiny letters I can't read what they say!"
I went to her house to check all of this, made some notes and then "googled" the issue in my computer after I came back to my office.
After looking at hundreds of comments from people in several forums , complaining about this issue and asking for help, who found no solution for the problem I finally came across a comment from a forum member who calls himself "Wireless Dude" who said:
"I had the same problem just this evening and started to thoroughly investigate the problem. Earlier in the evening I had just un-installed an application, when the problem started. After about an hour of sniffing around my Windows Vista install, I noticed that a lot of my fonts in my Windows/Fonts directory had been deleted! I re-installed the fonts, copying the directory from another computer, (the installation is invoked automatically when you simply copy the fonts into the Windows/Fonts directory).
The key fonts that had been deleted were "Arial", "Courrier New", "New Times Roman", etc. Such fonts are heavily used throughout Windows operating systems.
Once I had re-installed the fonts, everything went back to normal and menus were not displaying the "tiny fonts" that many users have been experiencing after a weird anomaly like this occurs"
As you can imagine, the first thing I did was to copy the Windows/Fonts directory from my computer to a flash memory stick, called my friend, went to her house, re-installed the Windows/Fonts directory in her new computer I had built for her and PRESTO!!! all was back to normal.
She said, "George you really are a computer guru", to which I responded, "had it not been the smarts of an unknown fellow who goes by the name of "Wireless Dude" on the Internet, it would have taken me, God know how long, to find a solution to this problem so many are having and not finding a solution.
As far as I know, Microsoft has not addressed any solution for the problem,( maybe they have), but I have not seen it anywhere.
Well, for you folks who may have this problem in your computers and have been living with it for a while, I hope this will be of help.
By the way, if you cannot copy the Windows/Fonts directory from another computer, you can download the fonts directly from http://www.microsoft.com/.
Have fun and PLEASE let me know, (those who may have this problem), how you managed.
Thanks,
George Freire
Friday, September 24, 2010
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Taking the mystery out of 64-bit Windows
Dear Viewers,
Most of you I assume are using Windows, (whatever version), as the OS in your computer.
Most of you have also heard about Windows 32-bit and 64-bit versions, (just a comment here, Widows XP only comes in the 32-bit version except in some very remote applications). Do you guys and girls know what is the difference between 32-bit and 64-bit?
You computer "gurus" who might read this blog, I am sure know the difference between these two versions, however, possibly most of the other readers, don't.
If you’re shopping for a new computer, chances are you already have enough to consider without wondering whether you should buy a computer with a 32-bit or 64-bit version of Windows 7.
There’s no need to fret. For most people, there’s little reason to think about this choice when you’re making your next computer purchase. That’s good, since many people don’t understand the difference between a PC running a 32-bit or 64-bit version of Windows, and the version they choose won’t make a big difference in most cases.
Microsoft has a Web site that is very interesting and explains in simple language what this is all about. Click on the following address and make yourselves experts on the subject:
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/taking-the-mystery-out-of-64-bit-windows
If you have questions, you can always contact me for clarification.
Enjoy!
George Freire
Most of you I assume are using Windows, (whatever version), as the OS in your computer.
Most of you have also heard about Windows 32-bit and 64-bit versions, (just a comment here, Widows XP only comes in the 32-bit version except in some very remote applications). Do you guys and girls know what is the difference between 32-bit and 64-bit?
You computer "gurus" who might read this blog, I am sure know the difference between these two versions, however, possibly most of the other readers, don't.
If you’re shopping for a new computer, chances are you already have enough to consider without wondering whether you should buy a computer with a 32-bit or 64-bit version of Windows 7.
There’s no need to fret. For most people, there’s little reason to think about this choice when you’re making your next computer purchase. That’s good, since many people don’t understand the difference between a PC running a 32-bit or 64-bit version of Windows, and the version they choose won’t make a big difference in most cases.
Microsoft has a Web site that is very interesting and explains in simple language what this is all about. Click on the following address and make yourselves experts on the subject:
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/taking-the-mystery-out-of-64-bit-windows
If you have questions, you can always contact me for clarification.
Enjoy!
George Freire
Friday, September 17, 2010
Internet Explorer 9 Beta: UI Smackdown
Dear Viewers,
Microsoft Internet Explorer has been tremendously improved.
According to experts, the new version 9 is so much superior to what they had in the past and possibly the best in the field now...
If you want to check it out and download the Beta version, click the address below.
Internet Explorer 9 Beta: UI Smackdown
I am downloading it today, and soon will be able to let you know how I like it.
George Freire
Microsoft Internet Explorer has been tremendously improved.
According to experts, the new version 9 is so much superior to what they had in the past and possibly the best in the field now...
If you want to check it out and download the Beta version, click the address below.
Internet Explorer 9 Beta: UI Smackdown
I am downloading it today, and soon will be able to let you know how I like it.
George Freire
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Remote Access to Your PC or Mac: LogMein Free
Dear viewers,
Here is a completely free program that will allow you to get to your home or office computer from anywhere you may be,as long as you leave your computer "on" while you are away:
LogMeIn Free gives you remote control of your PC or Mac from any other computer with an Internet connection.
Simply install LogMeIn on the computer you want to access (it takes about 2 minutes), log into your account from another computer and click the computer you want to control. You'll see its desktop and be able to use all the applications on your remote computer as if you were sitting in front of it - even if you're across town, across the country, or across the world.
•Works with Windows PCs and Mac OS X
•Two-minute set-up
•100% free
LogMein Free includes:
•Access from any Internet-connected web browser
•Access to a Windows PC or Mac
•Remote control and desktop viewing
•Copy and paste between computers
•Wake on LAN
•Reboot/reconnect (including safe mode)
•Basic reports (remote access sessions and user access)
•Chat
•AES 256-bit encryption
•SSL/TLS intrusion detection
•IP address lockout
•No need for firewall, router or proxy configuration
•No requirement for remote PC admin rights
If you want to control file transfer, remote printing, desktop sharing, and more, the company offers a "Pro" edition that provides full remote access so you can transfer files between computers, print documents from your remote computer to a local printer, share files with others and more. It is the complete remote access solution for mobile professionals and telecommuters.
To see all the information and download this program go to:
https://secure.logmein.com/US/products/free/
I have this program, (the free option), installed in both my Desk Top and Lap Top, therefore I can always work on my main computer regardless of where I am.
I hope it will be helpful for some of you.
George Freire
Here is a completely free program that will allow you to get to your home or office computer from anywhere you may be,as long as you leave your computer "on" while you are away:
LogMeIn Free gives you remote control of your PC or Mac from any other computer with an Internet connection.
Simply install LogMeIn on the computer you want to access (it takes about 2 minutes), log into your account from another computer and click the computer you want to control. You'll see its desktop and be able to use all the applications on your remote computer as if you were sitting in front of it - even if you're across town, across the country, or across the world.
•Works with Windows PCs and Mac OS X
•Two-minute set-up
•100% free
LogMein Free includes:
•Access from any Internet-connected web browser
•Access to a Windows PC or Mac
•Remote control and desktop viewing
•Copy and paste between computers
•Wake on LAN
•Reboot/reconnect (including safe mode)
•Basic reports (remote access sessions and user access)
•Chat
•AES 256-bit encryption
•SSL/TLS intrusion detection
•IP address lockout
•No need for firewall, router or proxy configuration
•No requirement for remote PC admin rights
If you want to control file transfer, remote printing, desktop sharing, and more, the company offers a "Pro" edition that provides full remote access so you can transfer files between computers, print documents from your remote computer to a local printer, share files with others and more. It is the complete remote access solution for mobile professionals and telecommuters.
To see all the information and download this program go to:
https://secure.logmein.com/US/products/free/
I have this program, (the free option), installed in both my Desk Top and Lap Top, therefore I can always work on my main computer regardless of where I am.
I hope it will be helpful for some of you.
George Freire
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Fix the Windows Clock So It Syncs Properly
Here is a good trick to keep your Windows clock always synchronized and right to the second.
Mr. Rick Broida, (my favorite tech expert at PCWorld), advises:
"Windows 7 may be the best Windows yet, but it suffers from the same annoying problem that plagued Vista and even XP: Its clock doesn't keep good time.
That's because the default time server Windows uses to fetch the current time, well, bites. I don't know if this is because of server overload or what (obviously there are a lot of Windows systems out there, all looking for a clock fix), but I'm tired of getting the same cryptic error when I try to sync manually.
Ah, but there's a fix. If you're trying to get your system to keep better time, try this:
1. Right-click the taskbar clock and choose Adjust date/time.
2. Click the Internet time tab, then the Change settings button. (This might be a little different in Windows XP.)
3. Erase what's in the Server field and replace it with pool.ntp.org.
4. Click Update now. In a few seconds, Windows' clock should get synchronized.
5. Click OK, then OK again, and you're done. "
I have followed his advice and now my Windows clock is always right!
Maybe you visitors want to try it right now!
George Freire
Mr. Rick Broida, (my favorite tech expert at PCWorld), advises:
"Windows 7 may be the best Windows yet, but it suffers from the same annoying problem that plagued Vista and even XP: Its clock doesn't keep good time.
That's because the default time server Windows uses to fetch the current time, well, bites. I don't know if this is because of server overload or what (obviously there are a lot of Windows systems out there, all looking for a clock fix), but I'm tired of getting the same cryptic error when I try to sync manually.
Ah, but there's a fix. If you're trying to get your system to keep better time, try this:
1. Right-click the taskbar clock and choose Adjust date/time.
2. Click the Internet time tab, then the Change settings button. (This might be a little different in Windows XP.)
3. Erase what's in the Server field and replace it with pool.ntp.org.
4. Click Update now. In a few seconds, Windows' clock should get synchronized.
5. Click OK, then OK again, and you're done. "
I have followed his advice and now my Windows clock is always right!
Maybe you visitors want to try it right now!
George Freire
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Fake Antivirus Software Uses Ransom Threats
Remember my post of August 30 that started:
"Yesterday my computer was working great but when I started it this morning, a message popped up, saying that the computer had been attacked by a virus."
Guess what, today I received an e-mail from PCWorld with an article that analyses precisely this serious problem which I am sharing with you all:
"Fake Antivirus Software Uses Ransom Threats
John E Dunn, techworld.com
Sep 4, 2010 12:00 pm
Fake antivirus programs appear to be adopting some of the money-raising tactics of more threatening ransom malware, security company Fortinet's latest threat report has found.
The most prevalent malware variant during August was TotalSecurity W32/FakeAlert.LU!tr, a malicious program that masquerades as antivirus software in order to sell worthless licenses for non-existent malware. On its own it accounted for 37.3 percent of all malware threats detected by the company during the month.
Unlike standard fake antivirus programs, however, the new version of TotalSecurity takes the ruse a stage further by preventing any applications other than a web browser to run, claiming they are "infected." The user is invited to have the infection cleaned by buying the bogus TotalSecurity product.
Adding an extra layer of sophistication to its arsenal -- and no doubt aware how quickly bogus antivirus software is blocked by genuine security products -- TotalSecurity can now vary the downloads it feeds to target PC using server-side polymorphism. Put another way, the exact version downloaded to a victim's PC will constantly change which makes detection harder.
"This is a technique typically seen with botnets, such as Waledac, and has been picked up by the developers of TotalSecurity. This is another example of how relying purely on antivirus is not a silver-bullet approach to protecting systems from infection," said Fortinet's threat research head, Derek Manky.
According to Fortinet, such attacks demonstrate the vulnerability of PC-based antivirus software. A layered defence would have a better chance of detecting TotalSecurity by either intercepting the initial spam used to spread it or by blocking the download website.
Once rare enough to be a curiosity, malware using threats and direct interference with a PC's operation have slowly become more common.
A previous report from Fortinet in March noted a sudden surge in the technique, about a year after the first aggressive use of ransomware in the form of the notorious Vundo Trojan. That particular piece of malware used crude encryption of a victim's files.
In July came news of the odd Krotten Trojan that disables a victim's PC in a variety of ways before asking for a tiny payment to be made to a Ukrainian mobile phone network. Two months before that researchers in Japan discovered the Kenzero porn blackmail Trojan that threatens to post a victim's embarrassing browsing history to a public website.
Be careful, but sometimes you may inadvertently open a web page that will cause such a problem in your computer.One way to solve the problem was explained to you in my post of August 30 referred to above.
George Freire
"Yesterday my computer was working great but when I started it this morning, a message popped up, saying that the computer had been attacked by a virus."
Guess what, today I received an e-mail from PCWorld with an article that analyses precisely this serious problem which I am sharing with you all:
"Fake Antivirus Software Uses Ransom Threats
John E Dunn, techworld.com
Sep 4, 2010 12:00 pm
Fake antivirus programs appear to be adopting some of the money-raising tactics of more threatening ransom malware, security company Fortinet's latest threat report has found.
The most prevalent malware variant during August was TotalSecurity W32/FakeAlert.LU!tr, a malicious program that masquerades as antivirus software in order to sell worthless licenses for non-existent malware. On its own it accounted for 37.3 percent of all malware threats detected by the company during the month.
Unlike standard fake antivirus programs, however, the new version of TotalSecurity takes the ruse a stage further by preventing any applications other than a web browser to run, claiming they are "infected." The user is invited to have the infection cleaned by buying the bogus TotalSecurity product.
Adding an extra layer of sophistication to its arsenal -- and no doubt aware how quickly bogus antivirus software is blocked by genuine security products -- TotalSecurity can now vary the downloads it feeds to target PC using server-side polymorphism. Put another way, the exact version downloaded to a victim's PC will constantly change which makes detection harder.
"This is a technique typically seen with botnets, such as Waledac, and has been picked up by the developers of TotalSecurity. This is another example of how relying purely on antivirus is not a silver-bullet approach to protecting systems from infection," said Fortinet's threat research head, Derek Manky.
According to Fortinet, such attacks demonstrate the vulnerability of PC-based antivirus software. A layered defence would have a better chance of detecting TotalSecurity by either intercepting the initial spam used to spread it or by blocking the download website.
Once rare enough to be a curiosity, malware using threats and direct interference with a PC's operation have slowly become more common.
A previous report from Fortinet in March noted a sudden surge in the technique, about a year after the first aggressive use of ransomware in the form of the notorious Vundo Trojan. That particular piece of malware used crude encryption of a victim's files.
In July came news of the odd Krotten Trojan that disables a victim's PC in a variety of ways before asking for a tiny payment to be made to a Ukrainian mobile phone network. Two months before that researchers in Japan discovered the Kenzero porn blackmail Trojan that threatens to post a victim's embarrassing browsing history to a public website.
Be careful, but sometimes you may inadvertently open a web page that will cause such a problem in your computer.One way to solve the problem was explained to you in my post of August 30 referred to above.
George Freire
Monday, August 30, 2010
HOW TO AVOID MAJOR PROBLEMS THAT CAN MAKE IT IMPOSSIBLE FOR YOU TO ACCESS YOUR COMPUTER. PART 5
Today we will analyse paragraph 3 of my post of August 2nd:
-"Yesterday my computer was working great but when I started it this morning, a message popped up, saying that the computer had been attacked by a virus.
Now I am not able to open any programs because the starting files have been corrupted. (This even includes opening the control panel and other Windows programs such as accessories and most important Windows System Tools, which incorporates System Restore.
However, the pop up message also tells me that a Virus Program "so and so", (If I click on the button), will scan the computer and find the culprit viruses.
I have done that, then the Virus Program "so and so" advises me that if I buy the program with a credit card, (normally in the$29.00 to $49.00 range), it will remove the viruses and all will be normal again..."
This happens quite frequently and there is nothing you can do to prevent such tricky methods by unscrupulous people and software makers, designed to get your money and information on your credit cards.
This happened to a good friend of mine a few weeks ago. I came over to his house to check his computer, tried many different ways to by-pass the problem, but nothing could be done, except of course let the "fishing" program do the scanning of the computer.FOR OBVIOUS REASONS I WAS NOT GOING TO ALLOW THAT TO HAPPEN.
I asked my friend, when was the last time he had used the computer without any problems. "well, last night after dinner I was using the computer and all was OK!"
Here is a situation that in most instances can be taken care of, AGAIN, by using SAFE MODE to the rescue.
I am repeating what I said in a very recent post a couple of weeks ago:
Safe mode is a troubleshooting option for Windows that starts your computer in a limited state. Only the basic files and drivers necessary to run Windows are started. The words Safe Mode appear in the corners of your monitor to identify which Windows mode you're using.
How do you get on "SAFE MODE"? it is really very easy:
Start the computer by pressing the the start button on your lap top or desk top and then immediately press F8 a few times "click, click, click", (you get the picture...). After a few moments, the monitor will show a lot of letters and file names scrolling down, until a page shows and gives you different choices to start the computer. Select "SAFE MODE".
The computer will then start in safe mode. If an existing problem doesn't reappear at this time, you can eliminate the default settings and basic device drivers or registry errors as possible causes.
If your computer automatically starts in safe mode without prompting, a problem with your computer might be preventing Windows from starting normally. If you think the cause of the problem might be a recently installed program or device, you will now be able to use Windows System Restore in SAFE MODE:
Click "start/programs/accessories/system tools/system restore.
Once in "System Restore" go to a restore date and time prior moment your problem showed up.
In this case I went to a restore point and time available in the previous day, selected it,
clicked "restore" and waited for the computer to restore itself to that date and time selected. That did the trick and my friend was back in business.
Windows System Restore is one of the best components built in the program. Never forget to use it when needed. Also, make sure that you create restore points once a day for your own safety.
George Freire
-"Yesterday my computer was working great but when I started it this morning, a message popped up, saying that the computer had been attacked by a virus.
Now I am not able to open any programs because the starting files have been corrupted. (This even includes opening the control panel and other Windows programs such as accessories and most important Windows System Tools, which incorporates System Restore.
However, the pop up message also tells me that a Virus Program "so and so", (If I click on the button), will scan the computer and find the culprit viruses.
I have done that, then the Virus Program "so and so" advises me that if I buy the program with a credit card, (normally in the$29.00 to $49.00 range), it will remove the viruses and all will be normal again..."
This happens quite frequently and there is nothing you can do to prevent such tricky methods by unscrupulous people and software makers, designed to get your money and information on your credit cards.
This happened to a good friend of mine a few weeks ago. I came over to his house to check his computer, tried many different ways to by-pass the problem, but nothing could be done, except of course let the "fishing" program do the scanning of the computer.FOR OBVIOUS REASONS I WAS NOT GOING TO ALLOW THAT TO HAPPEN.
I asked my friend, when was the last time he had used the computer without any problems. "well, last night after dinner I was using the computer and all was OK!"
Here is a situation that in most instances can be taken care of, AGAIN, by using SAFE MODE to the rescue.
I am repeating what I said in a very recent post a couple of weeks ago:
Safe mode is a troubleshooting option for Windows that starts your computer in a limited state. Only the basic files and drivers necessary to run Windows are started. The words Safe Mode appear in the corners of your monitor to identify which Windows mode you're using.
How do you get on "SAFE MODE"? it is really very easy:
Start the computer by pressing the the start button on your lap top or desk top and then immediately press F8 a few times "click, click, click", (you get the picture...). After a few moments, the monitor will show a lot of letters and file names scrolling down, until a page shows and gives you different choices to start the computer. Select "SAFE MODE".
The computer will then start in safe mode. If an existing problem doesn't reappear at this time, you can eliminate the default settings and basic device drivers or registry errors as possible causes.
If your computer automatically starts in safe mode without prompting, a problem with your computer might be preventing Windows from starting normally. If you think the cause of the problem might be a recently installed program or device, you will now be able to use Windows System Restore in SAFE MODE:
Click "start/programs/accessories/system tools/system restore.
Once in "System Restore" go to a restore date and time prior moment your problem showed up.
In this case I went to a restore point and time available in the previous day, selected it,
clicked "restore" and waited for the computer to restore itself to that date and time selected. That did the trick and my friend was back in business.
Windows System Restore is one of the best components built in the program. Never forget to use it when needed. Also, make sure that you create restore points once a day for your own safety.
George Freire
Friday, August 20, 2010
15 Things Every PC User Should Know
This post is not new, however I was looking at older posts and thought that it might be very useful for those of you who did not read it:
From PCWorld comes very useful advice for you all computer users:
Do you know how to retrieve deleted files? When to click just once, as opposed to twice? Or the difference between a forward slash and a back slash? Those bits of critical knowledge are just three of the "15 Things Every PC User Should Know," as identified by PCWorld's How To guru Patrick Miller. Even if you're a longtime computer user, it should be worth your while to check in on Patrick's 15 PC gems. Who knows: There might just be a few goodies you're not taking advantage of.
--Editorial Director Steve Fox
Just click the following title below and enjoy:
15 Things Every PC User Should Know
George Freire
From PCWorld comes very useful advice for you all computer users:
Do you know how to retrieve deleted files? When to click just once, as opposed to twice? Or the difference between a forward slash and a back slash? Those bits of critical knowledge are just three of the "15 Things Every PC User Should Know," as identified by PCWorld's How To guru Patrick Miller. Even if you're a longtime computer user, it should be worth your while to check in on Patrick's 15 PC gems. Who knows: There might just be a few goodies you're not taking advantage of.
--Editorial Director Steve Fox
Just click the following title below and enjoy:
15 Things Every PC User Should Know
George Freire
Friday, August 13, 2010
HOW TO AVOID MAJOR PROBLEMS THAT CAN MAKE IT IMPOSSIBLE FOR YOU TO ACCESS YOUR COMPUTER. PART 4
Today we will analyse paragraph 2 of my post of August 2nd:
"All of a sudden I cannot boot my computer up,I have given up!"
This problem, (if it was not the result of a serious virus attack), is normally caused by a corrupted file in the registry that got that way when a program or files download went sour, or a bad program installation after the download.
Of course, since you are not able to boot the computer, you won't be able to use Windows System Restore, Registry cleanup or any other procedure that could help the situation.
But do not despair! That's why Windows has a very helpful mode of operation, "SAFE MODE".
What is safe mode?
Safe mode is a troubleshooting option for Windows that starts your computer in a limited state. Only the basic files and drivers necessary to run Windows are started. The words Safe Mode appear in the corners of your monitor to identify which Windows mode you're using.
How do you get on "SAFE MODE"? it is really very easy:
Start the computer by pressing the the start button on your lap top or desk top and then immediately press F8 a few times "click, click, click", (you get the picture...). After a few moments, the monitor will show a lot of letters and file names scrolling down, until a page shows and gives you different choices to start the computer. Select "SAFE MODE".
The computer will then start in safe mode. If an existing problem doesn't reappear at this time, you can eliminate the default settings and basic device drivers or registry errors as possible causes.
If your computer automatically starts in safe mode without prompting, a problem with your computer might be preventing Windows from starting normally. If you think the cause of the problem might be a recently installed program or device, you will now be able to use Windows System Restore in SAFE MODE:
Click "start/programs/accessories/system tools/system restore.
Once in "system restore" go to a restore date prior to the date and time your problem showed up, click "restore" and wait. The computer will restore to that date and time when it was still working fine, and most likely you'll be in business again.
I hope that this will help those of you who did not know what to do when a problem like this all of a sudden hits you.
George Freire
"All of a sudden I cannot boot my computer up,I have given up!"
This problem, (if it was not the result of a serious virus attack), is normally caused by a corrupted file in the registry that got that way when a program or files download went sour, or a bad program installation after the download.
Of course, since you are not able to boot the computer, you won't be able to use Windows System Restore, Registry cleanup or any other procedure that could help the situation.
But do not despair! That's why Windows has a very helpful mode of operation, "SAFE MODE".
What is safe mode?
Safe mode is a troubleshooting option for Windows that starts your computer in a limited state. Only the basic files and drivers necessary to run Windows are started. The words Safe Mode appear in the corners of your monitor to identify which Windows mode you're using.
How do you get on "SAFE MODE"? it is really very easy:
Start the computer by pressing the the start button on your lap top or desk top and then immediately press F8 a few times "click, click, click", (you get the picture...). After a few moments, the monitor will show a lot of letters and file names scrolling down, until a page shows and gives you different choices to start the computer. Select "SAFE MODE".
The computer will then start in safe mode. If an existing problem doesn't reappear at this time, you can eliminate the default settings and basic device drivers or registry errors as possible causes.
If your computer automatically starts in safe mode without prompting, a problem with your computer might be preventing Windows from starting normally. If you think the cause of the problem might be a recently installed program or device, you will now be able to use Windows System Restore in SAFE MODE:
Click "start/programs/accessories/system tools/system restore.
Once in "system restore" go to a restore date prior to the date and time your problem showed up, click "restore" and wait. The computer will restore to that date and time when it was still working fine, and most likely you'll be in business again.
I hope that this will help those of you who did not know what to do when a problem like this all of a sudden hits you.
George Freire
Friday, August 6, 2010
WHO WAS VISITOR # 3000?
Yesterday somebody hit visit # 3000!
Who was him or her?
On July 17 I posted the following:
"We are less than 100 more visits to our blog, to reach # 3000.
At the bottom of the blog page there is a counter, (as of now at 2911); when you visit the blog check the counter and if it shows 3000 you are the one!
Let me know and we'll have a surprise for you.
George Freire "
Well, I am still waiting for a name!
Don't be shy and let me know.
George Freire
Who was him or her?
On July 17 I posted the following:
"We are less than 100 more visits to our blog, to reach # 3000.
At the bottom of the blog page there is a counter, (as of now at 2911); when you visit the blog check the counter and if it shows 3000 you are the one!
Let me know and we'll have a surprise for you.
George Freire "
Well, I am still waiting for a name!
Don't be shy and let me know.
George Freire
Monday, August 2, 2010
HOW TO AVOID MAJOR PROBLEMS THAT CAN MAKE IT IMPOSSIBLE FOR YOU TO ACCESS YOUR COMPUTER PART 2
My latest post talked about the most common problem areas experienced by those who ask me for help. Today I'll discuss # 1:
1-"My computer is so slow that I have to boot it long before I am ready to use it!"
This one is in most cases, (assuming that you have a decent anti virus program installed therefore no virus or other pestilent attacks are involved, ), is quite simple to handle:
There are many reasons why a computer may run slow, however, in 90% of the cases the main culprits are fragmented hard drives, a registry full of junk entries left over from deleted programs, downloads etc. and of course lots of junk and temporary files left over in the hard drive itself.
The longer you own the computer and take no action to handle the above situations, the worse it becomes, to the point that it may take many minutes just to boot, open a program or go to the Internet.
How can we take action? In most cases defragmenting the hard drive and cleaning up the registry will do the trick. Windows has a defragmentation program that is not too bad, but very very slow operating. There are much better programs that you can install free of charge that do an excellent job.
I use such programs that I install in my friends' computers, run them and presto a miracle takes place. My two favorite programs are "Advanced System Care" and "Defraggler",( which by the way I have recommended in older posts in this blog). Today we will discuss "Advanced System Care".
"Advanced System Care" can be downloaded from:
http://www.iobit.com/advancedwindowscareper.html
Clicking on the above address opens a website showing a green button "Download now free".
Downloading and installing is automatic and simple to do. Once installed the program screen shows 4 choices:
HOME - Shows the welcome screen with an overview of program version, last scan, statistics etc. This is for info only.
DIAGNOSE SYSTEM- This is the choice you must start with. It diagnoses the following:
System Optimization, Security Defence, Disk Defragment and Security Analyzer; click "scan"; if there are problems on any of the above, it tells you right away, click "repair" and pronto all will be well again.
MAINTAIN WINDOWS- After diagnosing the system, go to this choice. It will handle the following:
Spy ware Removal, Registry Fix, Privacy Sweep and Junk Files Clean; click "scan" and the program will identify any problems on the 4 above categories. Click "repair" and all problems found will be repaired and fixed in no time flat.
UTILITIES- This choice covers 3 sections, "Tuneup Tools", "Security" and "Administrative Tools". Each of these sections has many, many tools which are simple to use and almost self explanatory.
This program alone can get your computer rejuvenated and keep it in top shape. All you have to do is to run it at least once a week.
On my next post I'll discuss the program "Defraggler".
I hope the above will be of great help to some of you...
George Freire
1-"My computer is so slow that I have to boot it long before I am ready to use it!"
This one is in most cases, (assuming that you have a decent anti virus program installed therefore no virus or other pestilent attacks are involved, ), is quite simple to handle:
There are many reasons why a computer may run slow, however, in 90% of the cases the main culprits are fragmented hard drives, a registry full of junk entries left over from deleted programs, downloads etc. and of course lots of junk and temporary files left over in the hard drive itself.
The longer you own the computer and take no action to handle the above situations, the worse it becomes, to the point that it may take many minutes just to boot, open a program or go to the Internet.
How can we take action? In most cases defragmenting the hard drive and cleaning up the registry will do the trick. Windows has a defragmentation program that is not too bad, but very very slow operating. There are much better programs that you can install free of charge that do an excellent job.
I use such programs that I install in my friends' computers, run them and presto a miracle takes place. My two favorite programs are "Advanced System Care" and "Defraggler",( which by the way I have recommended in older posts in this blog). Today we will discuss "Advanced System Care".
"Advanced System Care" can be downloaded from:
http://www.iobit.com/advancedwindowscareper.html
Clicking on the above address opens a website showing a green button "Download now free".
Downloading and installing is automatic and simple to do. Once installed the program screen shows 4 choices:
HOME - Shows the welcome screen with an overview of program version, last scan, statistics etc. This is for info only.
DIAGNOSE SYSTEM- This is the choice you must start with. It diagnoses the following:
System Optimization, Security Defence, Disk Defragment and Security Analyzer; click "scan"; if there are problems on any of the above, it tells you right away, click "repair" and pronto all will be well again.
MAINTAIN WINDOWS- After diagnosing the system, go to this choice. It will handle the following:
Spy ware Removal, Registry Fix, Privacy Sweep and Junk Files Clean; click "scan" and the program will identify any problems on the 4 above categories. Click "repair" and all problems found will be repaired and fixed in no time flat.
UTILITIES- This choice covers 3 sections, "Tuneup Tools", "Security" and "Administrative Tools". Each of these sections has many, many tools which are simple to use and almost self explanatory.
This program alone can get your computer rejuvenated and keep it in top shape. All you have to do is to run it at least once a week.
On my next post I'll discuss the program "Defraggler".
I hope the above will be of great help to some of you...
George Freire
Sunday, August 1, 2010
HOW TO AVOID MAJOR PROBLEMS THAT CAN MAKE IT IMPOSSIBLE FOR YOU TO ACCESS YOUR COMPUTER
As you know, many friends, (and friends of friends whom I never had met), call me quite often for help concerning their computer problems.
Most of the help they need falls into the following problem categories as explained by them :
1-"My computer is so slow that I have to boot it long before I am ready to use it!"
2-"All of a sudden I cannot boot my computer up, I have given up!"
3-"Yesterday my computer was working great but when I started it this morning, a message popped up, saying that the computer had been attacked by a virus.
Now I am not able to open any programs because the starting files have been corrupted. (This even includes opening the control panel and other Windows programs such as accessories and most important Windows System Tools, which incorporates System Restore.
However, the pop up message also tells me that a Virus Program "so and so", (If I click on the button), will scan the computer and find the culprit viruses.
I have done that, then the Virus Program "so and so" advises me that if I buy the program with a credit card, (normally in the$29.00 to $49.00 range), it will remove the viruses and all will be normal again..."
4- I use a pass word in my computer because I'm afraid that other people will be looking at my stuff. But gee! I forgot the pass word, I did not write it down, but I think it is bla, bla bla; I have tried them all but nothing works. I am locked out and I can't access all my financial information, word files, pictures, music files etc. etc. I am desperate!"
5- (Less frequently) " My computer will not start, I think my hard drive is a goner, (and in most instances it is), what am I to do? I have some files backed up, but all my programs and my OS are now all dead along with my hard drive. This is very serious, George please help me".
All of the above will sooner or later happen to you, if you do not use on a regular basis simple procedures so easy to follow and apply.
If you have been visiting this blog you know that there are so many free programs you can download and install on the spot, programs that if used on a regular schedule, will keep your computer in top operating shape and protected against most attacks, (fishing, spam, virus etc.).
If you are not a regular visitor, just check the archive list on the left column of the blog, where you can access every single one of the 160+ posts published since the blog was started.
In the next few days, I'll publish new posts addressing the above 5 problem categories. I will tell you how to avoid them or better still what to do if you find yourselves in such predictments.
Keep checking the blog, I promise you you'll enjoy what is comming and most of all you'll become better computer users and less frustated with your machine...
See you soon,
George Freire
Most of the help they need falls into the following problem categories as explained by them :
1-"My computer is so slow that I have to boot it long before I am ready to use it!"
2-"All of a sudden I cannot boot my computer up, I have given up!"
3-"Yesterday my computer was working great but when I started it this morning, a message popped up, saying that the computer had been attacked by a virus.
Now I am not able to open any programs because the starting files have been corrupted. (This even includes opening the control panel and other Windows programs such as accessories and most important Windows System Tools, which incorporates System Restore.
However, the pop up message also tells me that a Virus Program "so and so", (If I click on the button), will scan the computer and find the culprit viruses.
I have done that, then the Virus Program "so and so" advises me that if I buy the program with a credit card, (normally in the$29.00 to $49.00 range), it will remove the viruses and all will be normal again..."
4- I use a pass word in my computer because I'm afraid that other people will be looking at my stuff. But gee! I forgot the pass word, I did not write it down, but I think it is bla, bla bla; I have tried them all but nothing works. I am locked out and I can't access all my financial information, word files, pictures, music files etc. etc. I am desperate!"
5- (Less frequently) " My computer will not start, I think my hard drive is a goner, (and in most instances it is), what am I to do? I have some files backed up, but all my programs and my OS are now all dead along with my hard drive. This is very serious, George please help me".
All of the above will sooner or later happen to you, if you do not use on a regular basis simple procedures so easy to follow and apply.
If you have been visiting this blog you know that there are so many free programs you can download and install on the spot, programs that if used on a regular schedule, will keep your computer in top operating shape and protected against most attacks, (fishing, spam, virus etc.).
If you are not a regular visitor, just check the archive list on the left column of the blog, where you can access every single one of the 160+ posts published since the blog was started.
In the next few days, I'll publish new posts addressing the above 5 problem categories. I will tell you how to avoid them or better still what to do if you find yourselves in such predictments.
Keep checking the blog, I promise you you'll enjoy what is comming and most of all you'll become better computer users and less frustated with your machine...
See you soon,
George Freire
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Acronis Drive Monitor
You may remember some of my older posts recommending "Acronis" a program that in my view is one of the best for your hard drive complete backup operation.
As you know this program is not free and costs about $45.00.
You can backup all files in your hard drive but also make a "Mirror Image" of the same which is a complete copy of the entire drive, (including all the software programs and your operating
system, Windows or other OS).
Now Acronis has a free program, "Acronis Drive Monitor" which is a great addition to your computer:
Protect data stored on your PC hard drive, workstation or server with Acronis Drive Monitor. The innovative technology provides an early warning that can make all the difference between keeping the data you have stored on any machine, reducing the risk of data loss and less headaches.
Acronis Drive Monitor checks disk health in the following three categories and reports deviations from normal operation to users, giving them an opportunity to replace affected drives prior to a potential total failure.
Automatically checks for disk problems:
Using a disk-resident function called S.M.A.R.T (Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology) to monitor the health of your machine.
Monitor Windows event logs:
Monitor critical events that may indicate a risk to data safety including logical file corruptions on NTFS and FAT file systems, corruption of dynamic disk logical structure, failed read or write operations that could indicate faulty hardware, Volume Shadow Copy Service failures and similar types of events.
Automatically receive warning alerts:
Get immediate notification of early warnings with email and a message displayed on the Windows taskbar in order that preventive actions can be taken.
Weekly status Reports:
Stay current about your computer/ server health with weekly reports. Plus, you’ll have access to the Acronis forum, a knowledge base with articles and built-in help for this easy-to-use software.
In order to download and install this software, go to:
http://www.acronis.com/promo/acronis-drive-monitor/?source=us_google&ad=adm&c=5024207177&k=acronis%20drive%20monitor&gclid=CNO8qJbD_6ICFUsJ2godD2_RZQ
I have in my computer and love it.
George Freire
As you know this program is not free and costs about $45.00.
You can backup all files in your hard drive but also make a "Mirror Image" of the same which is a complete copy of the entire drive, (including all the software programs and your operating
system, Windows or other OS).
Now Acronis has a free program, "Acronis Drive Monitor" which is a great addition to your computer:
Protect data stored on your PC hard drive, workstation or server with Acronis Drive Monitor. The innovative technology provides an early warning that can make all the difference between keeping the data you have stored on any machine, reducing the risk of data loss and less headaches.
Acronis Drive Monitor checks disk health in the following three categories and reports deviations from normal operation to users, giving them an opportunity to replace affected drives prior to a potential total failure.
Automatically checks for disk problems:
Using a disk-resident function called S.M.A.R.T (Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology) to monitor the health of your machine.
Monitor Windows event logs:
Monitor critical events that may indicate a risk to data safety including logical file corruptions on NTFS and FAT file systems, corruption of dynamic disk logical structure, failed read or write operations that could indicate faulty hardware, Volume Shadow Copy Service failures and similar types of events.
Automatically receive warning alerts:
Get immediate notification of early warnings with email and a message displayed on the Windows taskbar in order that preventive actions can be taken.
Weekly status Reports:
Stay current about your computer/ server health with weekly reports. Plus, you’ll have access to the Acronis forum, a knowledge base with articles and built-in help for this easy-to-use software.
In order to download and install this software, go to:
http://www.acronis.com/promo/acronis-drive-monitor/?source=us_google&ad=adm&c=5024207177&k=acronis%20drive%20monitor&gclid=CNO8qJbD_6ICFUsJ2godD2_RZQ
I have in my computer and love it.
George Freire
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Old Posts that will help you handle Windows better
I was reviewing some old posts published in this blog and came across these two, which I think you'll enjoy. I know some of our new viewers, for sure, never read them before.
Enjoy,
George Freire
Note: most of these secrets also apply to Windows 7
So here goes:
April 22nd, 2009
DID YOU KNOW THESE WINDOWS SECRETS?
Both WINDOWS XP and VISTA have vast hidden commands and functions which are in most part unknown to many of you readers of this blog.
Today I'm going to show you some of these "secrets", which will make your computer work better and faster.
Like everything else, if you proceed to optimize your computer by following the suggestions herein, make sure to do it step by step and read the instructions carefully.
HERE GOES:
1- Lots of visual effects cost valuable computer power. You can tone down the visual effects on WINDOWS XP by going to Control Panel/System and under the "Advanced" tab disable "visual effects" to free up valuable computer power.
On WINDOWS VISTA, go to System Properties, click "Advanced" tab, then "Performance settings" tab and under "Visual Effects" click "Adjust for Performance" button and then OK.
2- When using an alternative firewall, which in most cases are better the WINDOWS firewall, such as Norton or other security programs, it is highly recommended to disable the WINDOWS firewall, otherwise the two firewalls operating at the same time may slow down the system or even make it inoperable.
3-Every time there is a crash or program error, WINDOWS saves a "memory dump" in a file called "MEMORY.DMP" under the installation directory, (e.g. C:\Windows). In order to free disk space, this file can be deleted without a problem.
4- WINDOWS can significantly slow down its own start as it searches for shared files, folders and printers. In WINDOWS EXPLORER, you can go to "TOOLS/Folder Options/View" and disable the feature "Automatically search for network folders and printers".
5- WINDOWS XP has a command that lets you verify and restore critical system files if necessary. Type the command "sfc /scannow" under the "Start/Run. WINDOWS XP will check through the system files and automatically replace any damaged files. (It might sometimes ask you to insert the WINDOWS CD when doing this).
6- When WINDOWS VISTA is first installed and in most cases also in a new computer just purchased, there is no "Run" command in the "START" menu. If you want to have this command available, (and I recommend you should have it available), go to "Control Panel", choose "Task bar and Start Menu Properties", go to the "Start Menu" tab, click "Customize" find and check the option "Run Command" and then click OK and OK again.
7-Did you know that you can download WINDOWS VISTA and test it for a period of 30 days, without having to buy it? Well you can do it and extend that period to 120 days! How?
Log on as Administrator, go to "All Programs/Accessories" and right click on "Command Prompt". Select "Run as Administrator", then type in the command "slmgr.vbs-rearm".
You can do this up to 3 times!
8- WINDOWS indexes nearly all files and folders used during work flow on the system. Those who can do without this feature, can go into "My Computer", right click on the drive in question, (normally drive C:), choose "Properties", then uncheck the option "Allow Indexing Service to Index This Disk for Fast File Searching".
That's it for today. From time to time I'll come up with more secrets, (there are so many that it will take a life time...)
Enjoy,
George Freire
Thursday, July 9, 2009
DID YOU KNOW ?
Here are some tips that will help everyone make their computers work better and faster:
-Windows can significantly slow down its own start as it searches for shared files, folders and printers. In Windows Explorer, you can go to "Tools-Folder Options-View" and disable the feature "Automatically Search For Network Folders and Printers". This will make your start faster.
-Whenever there is a crash or error, Windows saves a memory dump in a file called "Memory.Dump" under the installation directory, (e.g. C;\Windows). This file can be deleted without any problems resulting. This will free disk space that you might need.
-When using an alternate firewall solutions, such as those available in virus protection programs such as Norton and many others, it is recommended to disable the Windows Firewall, otherwise there will be interference between the two firewalls. To do this, go to "Control Panel-Network Connections", open up the connection you use and choose "Advanced-Internet Connection Firewall", (or Windows Firewall , after SP2), and turn it off.
-Lots of visual effects cost valuable computing power and in most cases they loose their luster after a few days...
You can ton down the visual effects by going to "Control Panel/System", under the "Advanced" tab and disabling them to free up valuable computer power.
In Windows Vista, go to "System Properties, click "Advanced " tab, "Preference Settings" tab and under "Visual Effects" click "Adjust for Performance" button and then click OK.
-When Vista is first installed, or on new computers, there is no "Run" command visible in the start menu. If you want it to show there, which is a good thing, go to Control Panel, choose "Task Bar and Start Menu Properties", go to the "Start Menu" tab, click "Customize...", find and check the option "Run Command" and then click OK again.
Windows XP has a command that lets you restore critical system files if necessary. Click "Start/Run" and then type the command "scf/scannow". Windows XP will check through the system files and automatically replace any damaged files. (It may ask you in some instances to insert the Windows CD or the restore CD that came with the computer when doing this.
For today this is it. I hope the above will be of help for your good computing.
Enjoy,
George Freire
Enjoy,
George Freire
Note: most of these secrets also apply to Windows 7
So here goes:
April 22nd, 2009
DID YOU KNOW THESE WINDOWS SECRETS?
Both WINDOWS XP and VISTA have vast hidden commands and functions which are in most part unknown to many of you readers of this blog.
Today I'm going to show you some of these "secrets", which will make your computer work better and faster.
Like everything else, if you proceed to optimize your computer by following the suggestions herein, make sure to do it step by step and read the instructions carefully.
HERE GOES:
1- Lots of visual effects cost valuable computer power. You can tone down the visual effects on WINDOWS XP by going to Control Panel/System and under the "Advanced" tab disable "visual effects" to free up valuable computer power.
On WINDOWS VISTA, go to System Properties, click "Advanced" tab, then "Performance settings" tab and under "Visual Effects" click "Adjust for Performance" button and then OK.
2- When using an alternative firewall, which in most cases are better the WINDOWS firewall, such as Norton or other security programs, it is highly recommended to disable the WINDOWS firewall, otherwise the two firewalls operating at the same time may slow down the system or even make it inoperable.
3-Every time there is a crash or program error, WINDOWS saves a "memory dump" in a file called "MEMORY.DMP" under the installation directory, (e.g. C:\Windows). In order to free disk space, this file can be deleted without a problem.
4- WINDOWS can significantly slow down its own start as it searches for shared files, folders and printers. In WINDOWS EXPLORER, you can go to "TOOLS/Folder Options/View" and disable the feature "Automatically search for network folders and printers".
5- WINDOWS XP has a command that lets you verify and restore critical system files if necessary. Type the command "sfc /scannow" under the "Start/Run. WINDOWS XP will check through the system files and automatically replace any damaged files. (It might sometimes ask you to insert the WINDOWS CD when doing this).
6- When WINDOWS VISTA is first installed and in most cases also in a new computer just purchased, there is no "Run" command in the "START" menu. If you want to have this command available, (and I recommend you should have it available), go to "Control Panel", choose "Task bar and Start Menu Properties", go to the "Start Menu" tab, click "Customize" find and check the option "Run Command" and then click OK and OK again.
7-Did you know that you can download WINDOWS VISTA and test it for a period of 30 days, without having to buy it? Well you can do it and extend that period to 120 days! How?
Log on as Administrator, go to "All Programs/Accessories" and right click on "Command Prompt". Select "Run as Administrator", then type in the command "slmgr.vbs-rearm".
You can do this up to 3 times!
8- WINDOWS indexes nearly all files and folders used during work flow on the system. Those who can do without this feature, can go into "My Computer", right click on the drive in question, (normally drive C:), choose "Properties", then uncheck the option "Allow Indexing Service to Index This Disk for Fast File Searching".
That's it for today. From time to time I'll come up with more secrets, (there are so many that it will take a life time...)
Enjoy,
George Freire
Thursday, July 9, 2009
DID YOU KNOW ?
Here are some tips that will help everyone make their computers work better and faster:
-Windows can significantly slow down its own start as it searches for shared files, folders and printers. In Windows Explorer, you can go to "Tools-Folder Options-View" and disable the feature "Automatically Search For Network Folders and Printers". This will make your start faster.
-Whenever there is a crash or error, Windows saves a memory dump in a file called "Memory.Dump" under the installation directory, (e.g. C;\Windows). This file can be deleted without any problems resulting. This will free disk space that you might need.
-When using an alternate firewall solutions, such as those available in virus protection programs such as Norton and many others, it is recommended to disable the Windows Firewall, otherwise there will be interference between the two firewalls. To do this, go to "Control Panel-Network Connections", open up the connection you use and choose "Advanced-Internet Connection Firewall", (or Windows Firewall , after SP2), and turn it off.
-Lots of visual effects cost valuable computing power and in most cases they loose their luster after a few days...
You can ton down the visual effects by going to "Control Panel/System", under the "Advanced" tab and disabling them to free up valuable computer power.
In Windows Vista, go to "System Properties, click "Advanced " tab, "Preference Settings" tab and under "Visual Effects" click "Adjust for Performance" button and then click OK.
-When Vista is first installed, or on new computers, there is no "Run" command visible in the start menu. If you want it to show there, which is a good thing, go to Control Panel, choose "Task Bar and Start Menu Properties", go to the "Start Menu" tab, click "Customize...", find and check the option "Run Command" and then click OK again.
Windows XP has a command that lets you restore critical system files if necessary. Click "Start/Run" and then type the command "scf/scannow". Windows XP will check through the system files and automatically replace any damaged files. (It may ask you in some instances to insert the Windows CD or the restore CD that came with the computer when doing this.
For today this is it. I hope the above will be of help for your good computing.
Enjoy,
George Freire
Saturday, July 17, 2010
WHO WILL BE OUR VIEWER # 3000?
We are less than 100 more visits to our blog, to reach # 3000.
At the bottom of the blog page there is a counter, (as of now at 2911); when you visit the blog check the counter and if it shows 3000 you are the one!
Let me know and we'll have a surprise for you.
George Freire
At the bottom of the blog page there is a counter, (as of now at 2911); when you visit the blog check the counter and if it shows 3000 you are the one!
Let me know and we'll have a surprise for you.
George Freire
BACKUP ALL YOUR SOFWARE AND HARDWARE DRIVERS TO BE SAFE...
There is a very useful and free program, " DOUBLE DRIVER", which will allow you to backup all the drivers that you have hidden in your computer.
All of these drivers that you may not even know about, are required for proper operation of your software programs and most importantly, all the pieces of hardware which are connected to your computer. such as printers, flash drives, external drives etc.They can disappear or get corrupted and I bet if that happens, you probably do not know where to find the originals or even know how to re-install them.
One of the main reasons why you would want to collect installed drivers is if you don’t have the Driver CD that came with the computer or they are unavailable online. This comes in quite handy if you purchase a computer and want to backup the initial set of drivers. It can be quite difficulty for example to find drivers for hardware installed in a notebook if the operating system has to be setup again. Luckily Double Driver can now lend you a hand with that and save you a lot of time.
Double Driver is a very simple and useful tool which not only allows you to view all the drivers installed on your system but also allows you to backup, restore, save and print all chosen drivers.
Double Driver analyzes your system and lists the most important driver details such as version, date, provider, etc. All drivers that are found can easily be backed up the application and easily restored at a later point in one go.
Double Driver is freeware. Feel free to use and give this program to anyone you know. Your donation or feedback would be greatly appreciated.
To download and install this program go to:
http://www.boozet.org/dd.htm
When you run the program, a screen opens and gives you the choice, (when you click the "backup" choice), to scan your entire system. When this is finished, (it does not take more than a few seconds), it shows you a complete list of all the drivers installed in your computer; click the "Backup now" button on the lower left side of the screen. All the drivers are then backed up in a file called "double driver back up", (what else?), under the Documents folder in your computer.
Should you need to re-install any driver, all you have to do is select the drivers from the list and then click the choice "restore". That's all!, all the drivers selected will be restored in no time flat.
I strongly recommend that you all install this program in your computer. It is free and can save you lots of aggravation.
Have a good week-end,
George Freire
All of these drivers that you may not even know about, are required for proper operation of your software programs and most importantly, all the pieces of hardware which are connected to your computer. such as printers, flash drives, external drives etc.They can disappear or get corrupted and I bet if that happens, you probably do not know where to find the originals or even know how to re-install them.
One of the main reasons why you would want to collect installed drivers is if you don’t have the Driver CD that came with the computer or they are unavailable online. This comes in quite handy if you purchase a computer and want to backup the initial set of drivers. It can be quite difficulty for example to find drivers for hardware installed in a notebook if the operating system has to be setup again. Luckily Double Driver can now lend you a hand with that and save you a lot of time.
Double Driver is a very simple and useful tool which not only allows you to view all the drivers installed on your system but also allows you to backup, restore, save and print all chosen drivers.
Double Driver analyzes your system and lists the most important driver details such as version, date, provider, etc. All drivers that are found can easily be backed up the application and easily restored at a later point in one go.
Double Driver is freeware. Feel free to use and give this program to anyone you know. Your donation or feedback would be greatly appreciated.
To download and install this program go to:
http://www.boozet.org/dd.htm
When you run the program, a screen opens and gives you the choice, (when you click the "backup" choice), to scan your entire system. When this is finished, (it does not take more than a few seconds), it shows you a complete list of all the drivers installed in your computer; click the "Backup now" button on the lower left side of the screen. All the drivers are then backed up in a file called "double driver back up", (what else?), under the Documents folder in your computer.
Should you need to re-install any driver, all you have to do is select the drivers from the list and then click the choice "restore". That's all!, all the drivers selected will be restored in no time flat.
I strongly recommend that you all install this program in your computer. It is free and can save you lots of aggravation.
Have a good week-end,
George Freire
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Free Office Suite almost as good as Windows Office
I got this one from PCWorld and it is very good.
Here is the review by Mr. Preston Gralla:
"Don't want to pay hundreds of dollars for an office suite--and don't want to settle for a Web-based office application? Then get the latest version of OpenOffice.Org, a full-blown office suite that includes a word processor, spreadsheet, presentation program, database, drawing program, and math program.
Just because it's free doesn't mean that OpenOffice.org is underpowered--far from it. All the applications are full-featured, and unlike Microsoft Office, it includes drawing and math programs. It also handles Microsoft Office formats, as well as many others, including .rtf and open-source formats. It can even export to .pdf. And it works with Word markup, so you can easily exchange documents with those who use Office. However, it does have one problematic format shortcoming: Although it can open files in the Microsoft Office 2007 formats .docx in Word,. .xlsx in Excel, and .pptx in PowerPoint, it can't save files in those formats.
The overall interface isn't as slick as Office 2007--for example, it doesn't include the Ribbon. (Of course, there are people who hate the Ribbon and will be happy to hear that.)
This newest 3.2 version of OpenOffice.Org includes a variety of tweaks and fixes, such as adding a sticky-note collaboration tools to its drawing and presentation modules, improved context menus when creating charts.
If you're looking for a way to get away from spending hundreds of dollars for a suite, Openoffice.org is a great solution.
Note: This program is donationware. It is free to try, but the authors accept and encourage donations towards further development. This link takes you to the vendor's site, where you can download the latest version of the software.
--Preston Gralla"
To download this program go to:
http://download.openoffice.org/
I hope ypou'll enjoy it.
George Freire
Here is the review by Mr. Preston Gralla:
"Don't want to pay hundreds of dollars for an office suite--and don't want to settle for a Web-based office application? Then get the latest version of OpenOffice.Org, a full-blown office suite that includes a word processor, spreadsheet, presentation program, database, drawing program, and math program.
Just because it's free doesn't mean that OpenOffice.org is underpowered--far from it. All the applications are full-featured, and unlike Microsoft Office, it includes drawing and math programs. It also handles Microsoft Office formats, as well as many others, including .rtf and open-source formats. It can even export to .pdf. And it works with Word markup, so you can easily exchange documents with those who use Office. However, it does have one problematic format shortcoming: Although it can open files in the Microsoft Office 2007 formats .docx in Word,. .xlsx in Excel, and .pptx in PowerPoint, it can't save files in those formats.
The overall interface isn't as slick as Office 2007--for example, it doesn't include the Ribbon. (Of course, there are people who hate the Ribbon and will be happy to hear that.)
This newest 3.2 version of OpenOffice.Org includes a variety of tweaks and fixes, such as adding a sticky-note collaboration tools to its drawing and presentation modules, improved context menus when creating charts.
If you're looking for a way to get away from spending hundreds of dollars for a suite, Openoffice.org is a great solution.
Note: This program is donationware. It is free to try, but the authors accept and encourage donations towards further development. This link takes you to the vendor's site, where you can download the latest version of the software.
--Preston Gralla"
To download this program go to:
http://download.openoffice.org/
I hope ypou'll enjoy it.
George Freire
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Why don't you send me e-mails with funny stuff or computer problems you were able to resolve ?
Hi everybody!
Once in a while friends send me e-mails with funny stuff, like for instance the posts I have publish recently, "The seagull and the lazy cat", "Mission impossible with the trained squirrel" etc., or... problems you have had with your computer etc. etc.
I would love to have some good and interesting material to publish for everybody's entertainment.
Please send me those e-mails to:
gfreire@att.net
Thanks a million,
George Freire
Once in a while friends send me e-mails with funny stuff, like for instance the posts I have publish recently, "The seagull and the lazy cat", "Mission impossible with the trained squirrel" etc., or... problems you have had with your computer etc. etc.
I would love to have some good and interesting material to publish for everybody's entertainment.
Please send me those e-mails to:
gfreire@att.net
Thanks a million,
George Freire
Sunday, July 4, 2010
EnhanceMySe7en
EnhanceMySe7en
Windows 7 is fast and it is quite satisfying in the role of replacing Windows XP and Vista, but you can make it much faster and responsible with EnhanceMySe7en.
EnhanceMySe7en helps users to control many aspects of the system with maximum convenience.
You will get everything needed for maintaining Windows 7 in a perfect condition. The program offers tools that take care of the registry, disk space and its defragmentation, installed software, HDD temperature and all sorts of things related to system's health. Also there are lots of other options helping to boost your system's performance.
With a clean and simple interface it brings you an All-in-One set of powerful and neatly classified tools, settings and tweaks.
As a bonus there are some unique and uncommon options too.
In order to download this software free, go to:
http://www.seriousbit.com/tweak_windows_7/
This is good stuff.
George Freire
Windows 7 is fast and it is quite satisfying in the role of replacing Windows XP and Vista, but you can make it much faster and responsible with EnhanceMySe7en.
EnhanceMySe7en helps users to control many aspects of the system with maximum convenience.
You will get everything needed for maintaining Windows 7 in a perfect condition. The program offers tools that take care of the registry, disk space and its defragmentation, installed software, HDD temperature and all sorts of things related to system's health. Also there are lots of other options helping to boost your system's performance.
With a clean and simple interface it brings you an All-in-One set of powerful and neatly classified tools, settings and tweaks.
As a bonus there are some unique and uncommon options too.
In order to download this software free, go to:
http://www.seriousbit.com/tweak_windows_7/
This is good stuff.
George Freire
Sorry for my laziness, but summer and a little vacation are the culprits...
I have been very very lazy for the last few weeks. It's been hot and humid around my neck of the woods and frankly I have had no great enthusiasm to sit at the computer and do a little writing for the blog. I am sorry for those who expect to see interesting and useful stuff published on a regular basis.
Well, today I felt I could finally come up with some good stuff, which I have been reviewing on some of my favorite computer publications. First, from PCWorld Patrick Miller tech writer, here goes:
(I am not selecting all the items in his publication because it would be too long. However I made a selection of those tips that I think all of you readers of this blog will find very practical and useful).
Super Software Secrets:
The apps you use most--your Web browser, productivity tools, media managers, and Windows and its built-in accessories--are more powerful than you realize. They are loaded with unpublicized features that make your PC easier to use, they respond to superquick keyboard shortcuts that you've never heard about, and they support add-ons and plug-ins that can shave minutes or even hours off of mundane daily chores.
But finding these shortcuts and obscure features usually means perusing dusty manuals or digging through intimidating help menus, and many of the most useful tips are ones that you would never have thought to look for in the first place. Fortunately, you don't have to do the searching yourself--we've done it for you. Read on for the mother lode of expert software secrets.
Work Your Windows Key:
Quickly view your system specs: Press Windows-Pause to bring up the System Info window. This keyboard shortcut can be especially handy if you're troubleshooting a PC and need to pull up the system's specs in a hurry.
Launch taskbar apps: Put your most commonly used applications in the taskbar, and you'll use your mouse a lot less. Pressing Windows plus any number key will launch the program in the corresponding taskbar slot (so Windows-1 will open Windows Explorer, Windows-2 will open the app positioned to the right of Explorer, and so on).
Run apps from anywhere: You can launch applications and set parameters from your keyboard, without having to waste time digging through the Start menu to find the one you want to use. Press Windows-R to bring up the Run dialog box.
Fix the Small Stuff
Don't lose your work to automatic updates: Windows Update often forces your PC to restart after it finishes updating the operating system with the latest fixes--and if you're away from your desk with an unsaved document open at the time, you'll lose your work. To prevent this from happening, open Windows Update in the Control Panel, click Change settings, and in the drop-down menu select Download updates but let me choose whether to install them. That way, you'll never again get burned by a post-update reboot.
Safely remove memory cards without waiting: You're supposed to use the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the system tray before unplugging memory cards and the like--but waiting for it is such a pain that you'll be itching to pull your memory card without waiting for Safely Remove Hardware to do its thing. The key to making quick removal safe is to ensure that Windows isn't writing to the card without your knowledge; if the operating system behaves itself, you can eject the card whenever you want without corrupting your data. To adjust your settings, first right-click the memory card in Windows Explorer, choose Properties, click the Hardware tab, select the memory card reader, and choose Properties; then click the Policies tab (you may have to click the ‘Change settings' button before Policies shows up), and choose Optimize for quick removal. Henceforth, you won't need Safely Remove Hardware.
Mastering Microsoft Office
While your job might be sheer drudgery on certain assignments, working in Office doesn't have to be. Office has its fair share of hidden secrets that can lighten the load of your workday.
Convert your PDF files: PDF to Word is a neat Web service that converts PDF files to Word format so that you can edit them. Alternatively, you can download Nitro PDF Reader, an app that comes from the same company and offers similar features.
Maximize your macros: If you spend a significant amount of time in Word, consider using the built-in Macro function to record and automate repetitive tasks. First enable the Developer tab (in Office 2007): Click the Office button in the upper-left corner, choose Word Options, and check Show Developer tab in the Ribbon. Then switch to the Developer tab in your document, and you can record your own macros (global as well as document-specific) and assign them to keys or toolbar buttons.
Navigate with your thumbnails: Scrolling through long Word documents is a waste of time. Click the View tab and check the Thumbnails box to add a bar on the left side of the window that you can use to skip quickly from page to page.
Find a lost e-mail message: By default, in its All Items searches, Outlook 2007 doesn't include e-mail messages consigned to the Deleted Items folder. If you're looking for a missive that you think you may have deleted, select Tools, Options, Preferences, and click Search Options. Check the box under ‘Deleted Items' that says Include messages from the Deleted Items folder in each data file when searching in All Items, and you may be able to pull your missing mail out of the trash.
Web Browser Tricks and Scripts
Like the exploding ballpoint pen and powerful laser watch that James Bond found so handy in GoldenEye, your browser can do more than meets the eye. Whether you are Firefox friendly or an Internet Explorer devotee, plenty of great add-ons are available for customizing and controlling your Web browsing experience.
Take advantage of the tips in this section, and you'll never again have to endure a lost comment or forum post, spend precious time stripping unwanted formatting out of blocks of copied and pasted text, or waste sheets of paper every time you print out a copy of a Web page. Besides being easy on your processor, these practical add-ons are free, so load up on them.
Firefox Fans Only
Make Gmail better: Grab Better Gmail 2, a suite of scripts and add-ons designed to fix some of Gmail's niggling annoyances. With Better Gmail 2, your mouse will highlight the e-mail message that you hover it over, the Unread count in the Gmail window will appear first (so that it won't get cut off if it's located in a tab), and attachments will show up from the list view, among other useful improvements. Meanwhile, the first version of Better Gmail has become available to users as a Chrome extension.
Never lose another forum post: Use the Lazarus Firefox add-on to save everything you type in a form, just in case your PC crashes at an inopportune moment. Your blood pressure will thank you.
Deep-six the links: Copy Plain Text is another convenient Firefox add-on. It strips all of the nasty, unpredictable formatting out of text that you copy and paste.
Tips for Any Browser:
Save eight keystrokes from every URL: You no longer need to type "www." or ".com" in most URLs. Instead, merely type the unique part of the domain name that you want to visit--say, pcworld--into your browser's navigation bar, and press Ctrl-Enter. Your browser will automatically fill in the "www." and ".com" parts of the address.
Middle-click to open a link in a new tab: Middle-clicking a link (that is, clicking it with the scrollwheel) will cause it to open in a new tab. Middle-clicking a folder containing multiple bookmarks will cause all of them to open in new tabs.
Upgrade Your PC's Accessories:
Windows' built-in accessories are nice, but eventually you may want something more. If so, check out these apps, which pack more useful features while managing to stay svelte.
Notepad++ is Notepad for advanced text wranglers. Most of the features in this application are aimed at people who work with raw code--Notepad++ supports HTML, XML, JavaScript, .ini files, and various flavors of C, among other languages and formats--but the tabbed document displays, macros, and in-document bookmarking features are useful for anyone who regularly works with plain text.
ZuluPad, on the other hand, focuses on the "note" side of the Notepad feature set. With ZuluPad (the Basic version is free; the Pro version costs $15), you can pull in images, automatically link to your other notes while you type, and even sync your ZuluPad documents online.
Paint.net is a lightweight paint program that has been around forever--and with good reason. It's much more capable than Microsoft Paint (which falls short of most people's image-editing needs), and yet at the same time it's smaller and easier to use than professional-caliber applications such as Adobe Photoshop Elements and GIMP.
I hope the above tips will keep you occupied for a couple of days!
George Freire
Well, today I felt I could finally come up with some good stuff, which I have been reviewing on some of my favorite computer publications. First, from PCWorld Patrick Miller tech writer, here goes:
(I am not selecting all the items in his publication because it would be too long. However I made a selection of those tips that I think all of you readers of this blog will find very practical and useful).
Super Software Secrets:
The apps you use most--your Web browser, productivity tools, media managers, and Windows and its built-in accessories--are more powerful than you realize. They are loaded with unpublicized features that make your PC easier to use, they respond to superquick keyboard shortcuts that you've never heard about, and they support add-ons and plug-ins that can shave minutes or even hours off of mundane daily chores.
But finding these shortcuts and obscure features usually means perusing dusty manuals or digging through intimidating help menus, and many of the most useful tips are ones that you would never have thought to look for in the first place. Fortunately, you don't have to do the searching yourself--we've done it for you. Read on for the mother lode of expert software secrets.
Work Your Windows Key:
Quickly view your system specs: Press Windows-Pause to bring up the System Info window. This keyboard shortcut can be especially handy if you're troubleshooting a PC and need to pull up the system's specs in a hurry.
Launch taskbar apps: Put your most commonly used applications in the taskbar, and you'll use your mouse a lot less. Pressing Windows plus any number key will launch the program in the corresponding taskbar slot (so Windows-1 will open Windows Explorer, Windows-2 will open the app positioned to the right of Explorer, and so on).
Run apps from anywhere: You can launch applications and set parameters from your keyboard, without having to waste time digging through the Start menu to find the one you want to use. Press Windows-R to bring up the Run dialog box.
Fix the Small Stuff
Don't lose your work to automatic updates: Windows Update often forces your PC to restart after it finishes updating the operating system with the latest fixes--and if you're away from your desk with an unsaved document open at the time, you'll lose your work. To prevent this from happening, open Windows Update in the Control Panel, click Change settings, and in the drop-down menu select Download updates but let me choose whether to install them. That way, you'll never again get burned by a post-update reboot.
Safely remove memory cards without waiting: You're supposed to use the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the system tray before unplugging memory cards and the like--but waiting for it is such a pain that you'll be itching to pull your memory card without waiting for Safely Remove Hardware to do its thing. The key to making quick removal safe is to ensure that Windows isn't writing to the card without your knowledge; if the operating system behaves itself, you can eject the card whenever you want without corrupting your data. To adjust your settings, first right-click the memory card in Windows Explorer, choose Properties, click the Hardware tab, select the memory card reader, and choose Properties; then click the Policies tab (you may have to click the ‘Change settings' button before Policies shows up), and choose Optimize for quick removal. Henceforth, you won't need Safely Remove Hardware.
Mastering Microsoft Office
While your job might be sheer drudgery on certain assignments, working in Office doesn't have to be. Office has its fair share of hidden secrets that can lighten the load of your workday.
Convert your PDF files: PDF to Word is a neat Web service that converts PDF files to Word format so that you can edit them. Alternatively, you can download Nitro PDF Reader, an app that comes from the same company and offers similar features.
Maximize your macros: If you spend a significant amount of time in Word, consider using the built-in Macro function to record and automate repetitive tasks. First enable the Developer tab (in Office 2007): Click the Office button in the upper-left corner, choose Word Options, and check Show Developer tab in the Ribbon. Then switch to the Developer tab in your document, and you can record your own macros (global as well as document-specific) and assign them to keys or toolbar buttons.
Navigate with your thumbnails: Scrolling through long Word documents is a waste of time. Click the View tab and check the Thumbnails box to add a bar on the left side of the window that you can use to skip quickly from page to page.
Find a lost e-mail message: By default, in its All Items searches, Outlook 2007 doesn't include e-mail messages consigned to the Deleted Items folder. If you're looking for a missive that you think you may have deleted, select Tools, Options, Preferences, and click Search Options. Check the box under ‘Deleted Items' that says Include messages from the Deleted Items folder in each data file when searching in All Items, and you may be able to pull your missing mail out of the trash.
Web Browser Tricks and Scripts
Like the exploding ballpoint pen and powerful laser watch that James Bond found so handy in GoldenEye, your browser can do more than meets the eye. Whether you are Firefox friendly or an Internet Explorer devotee, plenty of great add-ons are available for customizing and controlling your Web browsing experience.
Take advantage of the tips in this section, and you'll never again have to endure a lost comment or forum post, spend precious time stripping unwanted formatting out of blocks of copied and pasted text, or waste sheets of paper every time you print out a copy of a Web page. Besides being easy on your processor, these practical add-ons are free, so load up on them.
Firefox Fans Only
Make Gmail better: Grab Better Gmail 2, a suite of scripts and add-ons designed to fix some of Gmail's niggling annoyances. With Better Gmail 2, your mouse will highlight the e-mail message that you hover it over, the Unread count in the Gmail window will appear first (so that it won't get cut off if it's located in a tab), and attachments will show up from the list view, among other useful improvements. Meanwhile, the first version of Better Gmail has become available to users as a Chrome extension.
Never lose another forum post: Use the Lazarus Firefox add-on to save everything you type in a form, just in case your PC crashes at an inopportune moment. Your blood pressure will thank you.
Deep-six the links: Copy Plain Text is another convenient Firefox add-on. It strips all of the nasty, unpredictable formatting out of text that you copy and paste.
Tips for Any Browser:
Save eight keystrokes from every URL: You no longer need to type "www." or ".com" in most URLs. Instead, merely type the unique part of the domain name that you want to visit--say, pcworld--into your browser's navigation bar, and press Ctrl-Enter. Your browser will automatically fill in the "www." and ".com" parts of the address.
Middle-click to open a link in a new tab: Middle-clicking a link (that is, clicking it with the scrollwheel) will cause it to open in a new tab. Middle-clicking a folder containing multiple bookmarks will cause all of them to open in new tabs.
Upgrade Your PC's Accessories:
Windows' built-in accessories are nice, but eventually you may want something more. If so, check out these apps, which pack more useful features while managing to stay svelte.
Notepad++ is Notepad for advanced text wranglers. Most of the features in this application are aimed at people who work with raw code--Notepad++ supports HTML, XML, JavaScript, .ini files, and various flavors of C, among other languages and formats--but the tabbed document displays, macros, and in-document bookmarking features are useful for anyone who regularly works with plain text.
ZuluPad, on the other hand, focuses on the "note" side of the Notepad feature set. With ZuluPad (the Basic version is free; the Pro version costs $15), you can pull in images, automatically link to your other notes while you type, and even sync your ZuluPad documents online.
Paint.net is a lightweight paint program that has been around forever--and with good reason. It's much more capable than Microsoft Paint (which falls short of most people's image-editing needs), and yet at the same time it's smaller and easier to use than professional-caliber applications such as Adobe Photoshop Elements and GIMP.
I hope the above tips will keep you occupied for a couple of days!
George Freire
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