Tek Mo PC ko (Tech My PC)

Remove User Accounts from the Login Screen in Windows XP

2008-02-19T08:22:00.001+08:00

So you login to your computer every single day, but there's more than one account to choose from… either because you got the computer from somebody else, or some software package added a user account that you really don't want to see. So how do we hide that other account from the login screen?

There's a simple registry hack that you can do to hide accounts from the login screen, or you could alternatively delete the user account if you really don't need it. Both methods are listed below.

Manual Registry Hack

Open up regedit.exe through the start menu Run box, and then navigate down to the following key:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\
CurrentVersion\Winlogon\SpecialAccounts\UserList

On the right-hand side you'll see a list of keys that correspond to user accounts that are considered "Special" and are not to be shown on the login screen.

Create a new DWORD value with the same name as the user name that you want to hide. You'll note that the actual username in the illustration was "OtherPerson" and not the description that was shown on the login screen.

To unhide the account, simply delete the registry key that you created.

The next time you log off you'll see that the other account is gone.

Hide User Account with Tweak UI

You can also use the Microsoft Tweak UI PowerToy to do the same thing. (Thanks to Gustav for reminding me to include this)

Just click on the Logon key in the left hand side, and then uncheck the box for "Show on Welcome screen"

Login to Hidden Account

You can still login to the account even though it's not shown… You'll just have to use a little trick.

At the login screen, just hit the Ctrl+Alt+Delete combination twice in a row, and you'll be presented with the old-school login screen, where you have to manually enter the username.

Type the name and password of the other user, and login.

Delete User Account

Alternatively you can always delete the user account if you are absolutely sure that you don't need that user account anymore. Right-click on "My Computer" and choose "Manage"

Navigate down through "Local Users and Groups" and then Users, and then locate the username in the list that you'd like to get rid of.

Just right-click and choose Delete. Note that this step cannot be reversed, so make sure you only delete accounts you really really don't want anymore. If you are unsure, you can just hide them using the first option above.

Source: TheHowToGeek

Dress Up Your Desktop

2008-02-06T08:28:00.000+08:00

These (mostly free) downloads will add zip to the look and feel of your PC, and can transform it into something uniquely yours.

Tired of Windows' looks? No problem--you can dress it up just about any way you want, and these downloads will help. Want to turn your desktop into a virtual 3D space? Go right ahead. Want to give your PC the Mac OS X Dock feature? You can. In fact, you'll be able to tweak how Windows appears and works, with these 15 great downloads.

Real Desktop Lite

To make your desktop look completely different, give this program a try. It turns your desktop into a three-dimensional space and transforms your icons into virtual objects that you can move around and even throw. You can rotate them in any way, and when you throw them against one another, they clink as they crash. You can even lift up your icons and twirl them around. The Recycle Bin becomes a three-dimensional trash can, too.

Will this change the way you compute? No--but it's plenty of fun, and it's worth trying just for that. (Note that when you use the program, you won't be able to use wallpaper in combination with it.)

Download Real Desktop Lite (Free)

RocketDock

One of Mac OS X's best features is its Dock, an easily customizable bar of icons at the bottom or side of the screen that lets you run frequently used programs. Inexplicably, a comparable feature is missing from Windows, absent even in Vista.

Until now, that is. RocketDock lets you place a dock at the top, bottom, or side of your screen for quick access to your favorite apps and features. By default it has icons for several Windows features, including My Computer, Recycle Bin, Control Panel, and others, but you can quickly add new icons by dragging and dropping them. The extremely customizable program allows you to change the graphic quality and opacity of the icons, and offers a number of different styles. It's simple to use, it's free, and it makes running oft-used programs and features easier. Given that, it's hard to pass up.

Download RocketDoc (Free)

WindowBlinds

This program may be your best bet for revamping Windows' looks on a grand scale. Using it, you can apply "skins" to the entire operating system to make it appear just about any way you'd like. You can use the skins built into the program, download others, and even make and customize your own. In addition to skinning almost every part of Windows, you can, for example, add buttons to title bars, skin the Windows Vista Sidebar, change the Start menu animation, alter the look of Windows' Start menu shutdown/lock buttons, and even skin Internet Explorer navigation arrows and tabs.

Since the program doesn't alter system files, you're not putting Windows at risk when you use it. Applying and configuring skins is easy, with a simple-to-follow visual interface guiding you through all the steps. And if you're an XP user who wants to make your PC environment look like Windows Vista, you can apply a skin that will do that for you too.

Download WindowBlinds ($20, shareware)

DeskSpace

One great way to dress up Windows is to give your machine virtual 3D desktops. Each desktop stands completely separate from the others, sports its own look and feel, and has its own applications running in it. DeskSpace lets you create four virtual desktops, and places each one on a side of a virtual 3D cube that you can rotate through space to switch among them.

After you run the program, you press Ctrl-Shift-Alt to put it into action. You can then create your desktops, and switch among them and rotate them in space. You can zoom in and out on the virtual cube, immediately switch to any desktop, shift over to any application on any virtual desktop, and even move windows between desktops. DeskSpace is more than a tool to increase your productivity--it's just plain fun.

Download DeskSpace ($20, 14-day trial)

TweakWindow

Are you a Windows XP user who covets Windows Vista's transparent windows? This nifty program gives users of XP and of Windows 2000 all the transparency features of Windows Vista--and more. Though in Vista only window borders are transparent, with TweakWindow you'll be able to make entire windows see-through. You control the degree of transparency, between opaque (not transparent at all) and completely invisible. You do so on a program-by-program basis, too, so you can make some program windows opaque while giving others varying degrees of transparency. You can even turn windows into "ghosts" that stay on top of other windows and let you click through to other windows beneath. The utility also has a nifty "rollup" feature that lets you minimize an entire window into a floating title bar. You control all of this via icons that sit on top of individual windows.

Download TweakWindow ($21, shareware)

Crystal XP

Microsoft makes a big deal about Windows Vista's Aero environment, which includes transparent windows, but in truth that transparency effect is less than overwhelming: Only the window borders are transparent, not all windows have transparency, and you can't easily control the effect.

Crystal XP lets you make entire windows transparent and easily change the level of transparency as well. In addition, you can change the transparency for applications individually, something you can't normally do in Vista. And on top of that, the program has a nice extra, a display of your CPU usage (expressed as a percentage).

Note that this program, contrary to its name, works only in Windows Vista. It is still in beta, too, so if that seems risky to you, don't download.

Download Crystal XP (Free)

Desktop Sidebar

Some Windows XP users might also wish they had Vista's nifty Sidebar, which displays assorted applets that can grab information from the Internet or show other information such as a clock or pictures from your PC. If that sounds like you, suffer Sidebar envy no longer: This program looks and works much as Windows Vista's feature does, and it comes with many preinstalled applets, including a weather watcher, a clock, a performance monitor, a news grabber, a media player, and a quick-launch pad. From the developer's site you can download many more applets, plus different skins to change Desktop Sidebar's looks.

The program works with both XP and Vista. Though there's no real reason to use it instead of Vista's built-in Sidebar, having the option is nice. After all, the program is free, so it may be worth a try even for Vista users.

Download Desktop Sidebar (Free)

Vista Start Menu SE

The Windows Start menu is a mildly useful tool for running programs and accomplishing other tasks. But what if you want something more? This program, which despite its name works with both Windows Vista and XP, puts all of your programs and important folders within easy reach so that you can launch them quickly. It also gives you fast access to turning the machine off, rebooting, logging off, and switching users.

Since it's customizable, you can change the size of the menu, for example, as well as decide which power management buttons (Switch, Logout, Stand By, Reboot, Hibernate, and Turn Off) to display. You can also position the power management buttons at the top or bottom of the screen.

Download Vista Start Menu (Free)

3DNA Desktop

Turn your PC into an immersive, three-dimensional world with this program, which replaces your normal desktop with a 3D view that makes navigating your PC, organizing files and folders, and launching programs more fun. After you install the application, you find yourself in a kind of virtual, 3D loft, and you walk around it to interact with your computer. Want to create or play back media? Walk over to a media center and click a microphone to launch a sound recorder, or click a stereo to launch your media player. Want to surf the Web? Head over to the appropriate area and launch your browser; you can see multiple Web sites running simultaneously on the browser wall.

The environment has similar areas for launching applications. You can even walk upstairs onto the deck to play a game of hoops, look at the daytime sky, and watch birds flying above. Plenty of other 3D worlds apart from the loft are available for download, as well.

Note that this program works only with Windows XP, not Vista.

Download 3DNA Desktop ($30, shareware)

AusLogics Visual Styler

If you're looking for a simple, visually appealing way to dress up your PC, AusLogics Visual Styler is worth the download, as it gives you instant access to many deeply hidden Windows customization features and adds some twists of its own. For example, with it you can adjust your icons' resolution, their size, the space between them, and even whether they should have a shortcut arrow on them. You can also determine which desktop icons to use for Internet Explorer, the Recycle Bin, drives, folders, and so on. The application's wallpaper changer will swap out the background image every time your PC starts, too.

The program has an abundance of features, including one that lets you easily download and use wallpapers from the Internet. Though AusLogics Visual Styler won't let you change Windows to the same degree that an app such as 3DNA Desktop does, it's still a good bet if you want to tweak common Windows elements.

Download AusLogics Visual Styler ($25, 15-day free trial)

Vista4Experts

Ignore this program's name, because if you're a true Vista expert, you don't need it. On the other hand, if you're like most people and you don't know how to disable User Account Control, customize the menu power button, or disable or enable the Aero environment, you want this tool.

Via a simple interface, you can customize many Vista features, changing (among other things) the behavior of Windows Updates, User Account Control, the power button, and Internet Explorer. Nothing big or dramatic here, but the program is free and it lets you make adjustments without having to dig through menus and dialog boxes, so it's worth a try.

Download Vista4Experts (Free)

MagicTweak

MagicTweak gives you countless ways to rework Windows to your heart's content. Change the icons for various system features, such as folders, drives, documents, disks, and more. Create a custom desktop shortcut arrow. Alter the appearance and functionality of Windows Explorer. Optimize your network connection. Hide menus and customize the Start menu. Adjust Windows' security. That's just the beginning. Dedicated system tweakers should grab this program--it's among the most comprehensive utilities you'll find anywhere.

Download MagicTweak ($40, 15-day trial)

BOINC

Here's a chance to dress up your PC and do some good for science as well. This screen saver uses your system's idle cycles to perform processing for various research projects, including those to control malaria, search for extraterrestrial life, help with medical research, and many others.

As your PC goes about its work, it shows exactly what it's doing, in the form of charts, graphs, and data rotating in space. Will you understand the charts and graphs? Most likely not, but they're certainly cool-looking, and you get the satisfaction of knowing that you're helping scientific progress.

Download BOINC (Free)

Microangelo Toolset 6

What do you spend the most time looking at on your desktop? The icons, of course. Wouldn't it be nice to edit them, or better yet, create icons of your own?

That's exactly what this program can do for you--and you don't have to be the next Michelangelo to use it. You can create icons in any size and any color format, including the 256-by-256-pixel icons that Windows Vista favors. Paint tools, drawing tools, and icon-creation tools make the task easy. Particularly useful is the program's ability to import a graphic and then automatically convert it into an icon, permitting you to clean it up if necessary. You also get an icon manager, an icon browser, and an icon animator.

Download Microangelo Toolset 6 ($50, 21-day trial)

Real World Cursor

Replacing Windows's default pointers with your own designs--static or animated--is a lot easier than you might think, thanks to this free program. You can edit existing pointers or create new ones from scratch. In addition, you can import any image into the program, which then creates a pointer from it.

The app includes all the tools you'll need, and has several useful tutorials. It even has links to an online library where you can download free icons and complete icon sets that you can use as-is or edit.

Download Real World Cursor (Free)

Vista Transformation

2008-01-13T23:34:00.004+08:00

If you've been dreaming to have Windows Vista installed on your computer but your hardware doesn't meet the minimum requirement, there is a program that will transform your GUI to look like Vista. Everyone will never notice it's the same old XP(or2003).

Features

Vista Transformation Pack will replace many of the resources in Windows XP/Windows Server 2003. It can change such things as:

Boot screen
Welcome Screen / Logon Screen
New msstyles files (visual styles)
New desktop and file icons
New toolbar icons
Progress Dialogs
Sounds scheme
System Tray icons
New Wallpapers
Windows Media Player Skins
And much more

Changes in Version 8.0.1

-Fixed pre-configuration specifications to improve performance (Removed unstable applications from list)
-Fixed TrueTransparency’s stability (some settings in skin causing input hook problems)
-Fixed Visualtooltip configuration when user accidently deletes the configuration files in there
-Removed backup files’ status and put CPU model instead (obsolete checking)
-Updated system files’ status report to “Out of sync” and repairing system files information
-Updated user account configuration system for more subtle performance

Changes in Version 8.0

-Added CPU Speed information in Welcome Center
-Added saving setup information file to save setup configuration for later uses with unattended transformation support
-Added installation background
-Added “System optimized” in Setup Configuration to configure the user account corresponding to machine’s spec
-Added TrueTransparency 0.8.5 (Glass border with ported AeroStyle skin)
-Added WinFlip 0.42 (Vista 3DFlip)
-Fixed KB925902 hotfix issues with file processing animation
-Fixed Media Center program execution error
-Fixed rebuilding icon cache bug on non-current users during the processes
-Fixed Styler’s installation checking bug (always set toolbar to styler mode when possible)
-Fixed failing to apply Vista screensaver
-Fixed program name in Add/Remove Programs
-Fixed subscribing Windows X’s shrine to be default homepage bug in Welcome Center
-Fixed visualtooltip’s advanced configuration bug
-Fixed WindowBlinds 6 skin installation compatibility
-Moved hotfix warning to user guide file to prevent confusion
-Re-arranged welcome dialog for richer information
-Replaced Extras in Welcome Center with Community link to forum
-Removed configuring user account’s status report
-Removed obsolete dialogs (WindowBlinds warning, Before transformation, Donation, FAQ and Q&A)
-Removed Vista Live Messenger 8.1 skin
-Updated Setup Configuration in Welcome Center to cover on everything
-Updated setup transformation to pre-configure current user account before finishing the transformation
-Updated theming engine configuration
-Updated Vista Sidebar to version 2.3 Lite
-Updated Vista Sidebar user account configuration in Welcome Center
-Updated ViStart to build 2661
-Updated ViOrb to version 2.0
-Updated VisualTooltip to version 2.2
-Updated Welcome Center to pre-configure user account with system optimized option on the first run in that user account

Screenshots

Setup’s user interface with saving setup information for later use feature

Vista Transformation Pack - Express Mode (Simplify the transformation in single page)

Boot Screen

Logon Screen

Desktop Screenshot (Yeah…not WindowBlinds)

Vista Transformation Pack - Welcome Center (Refined Maintenance Center)

Vista Transformation Pack - Configure User Account (Personalise Vista experiences’ per-user configuration)

3DFlip (Rendered by WinFlip)

Download

Source: http://www.windowsxlive.net/?page_id=15

Yahoo Multiple

2008-01-09T12:51:00.000+08:00

Have you ever thought of logging to Yahoo Messenger using multiple accounts?

Here's how.

1. Go to Start / Run.
2. Type regedit, then hit ENTER.
3. Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_ USER / Software / Yahoo / Pager / Test
4. On the right page, right-click and choose new string value.
5. Rename it as Plural.
6. Double click and assign a decimal value of 0. (even1, 2, 3 etc..)

You're done. That's how easy it is.

Backing Up and Restoring Registry

2008-01-09T10:32:00.001+08:00

If you are trying to install applications on your PC, sometimes you may not be aware of the possibility that the software you just installed may cause damage to your system. Some software is designed to be installed simply by copying their files to the desired location, and there is no formal installation process. This is common for Mac OS X applications and is also used for many Windows applications. Operating systems also exist which don't require installation, and can therefore be run directly from a bootable CD, DVD, or USB drive, without affecting other operating systems installed on the machine. An example is Knoppix Linux or Mac OS 1-9. Common operations performed during software installations include creation or modification of Windows registry entries (Windows only).

The Windows registry is a directory which stores settings and options for the operating system for Microsoft Windows 32-bit versions, 64-bit versions and Windows Mobile. It contains information and settings for all the hardware, operating system software, most non-operating system software, users, preferences of the PC, etc. Whenever a user makes changes to Control Panel settings, file associations, system policies, or most installed software, the changes are reflected and stored in the registry. The registry also provides a window into the operation of the kernel, exposing runtime information such as performance counters and currently active hardware. Errors on registry entries may corrupt the programs installed, or worst... your entire operating system.

The Windows registry is the central data store for the Windows operating system. It contains all the information and variables that Windows uses to run itself and the programs you install. Editing the registry gives access to a wealth of options that may not be offered to you through the user interface. It also gives you the means to completely mess up your system in the time it takes to reboot.

While restoring a computer with registry problems is now a fair bit more possible thanks to the system restore features built into, it's still a good idea to make a backup of your registry before making any changes to it.

To back up the registry, open REGEDIT and ensure that 'my computer' is highlighted, then go to file\export.

In this window, you need to enter a location to save the exported registry (as a single file) and choose the type of file to create. Also, check the 'all' button at the bottom of the screen to backup the entire registry.

There are several possible file types, but we will focus on one only, as the .reg file type is the easiest to use. A .reg backup will copy over all changes made to existing portions of the registry when it is restored, while leaving additions to the registry made since the backup untouched.

Select the .reg file type and click 'save.'

Restoring the registry from this .reg file is a simple matter of locating the file you created, right clicking it and selecting 'merge.'

So, before installing any software to your baby make sure to backup your registry for security and error- free PC.

Source: wikipedia.org, pcstats.com

4 Simple Steps on securing your Windows based-Home PC

2007-03-01T09:23:00.000+08:00

Excerpts from PC magazine May-June issue 2005 . Authored by: William Emmanuel Sy, CISSP

STEP 1: Install and Enable Antivirus Software: Installing Antivirus software allows users to protect themselves from most viruses, trojans, but not from worm (until now). The important point is that anti-virus software data must be updated as often as possible weekly at the minimum (better daily).

For Cost and License Free AV softwares:
AVG , Avast, & Clamwin AV

For Commercial softwares:
I would recommend Eset's NOD 32.

Step 2: Install and Enable Personall Firewall Software.: For those using Window XP SP2 it has its default firewall, but for the rest, you may have to settle for third party firewall tools. The most common free-for-personal-use firewall tool in the market today is Zonealarm . It comes with your basic personal firewall plus a number of useful protection features.

Step 3: Replace Some Applications with Less Dangerous Versions: A number of software products are commonly used as vectors malwares and the damage they cause. The Two most common are MS Internet Explorer and MS Outlook Express. To mitigate these problems, one could replace the software.

For internet browsers:
Mozilla Firefox - It's currently the world's fastest growing web browser and its free.

For email program:
Mozilla thunderbird - It has features such as junk mail detection, a fully customized look and improved privacy and security and its free.

Step 4: Don't Install Softwares That You Don't Really Need: For many casual, small offices and home users, there is this notion that "more is better", that is to say-the feeling that if you have more "stuff" on your computer, you are getting better value out of it. Not! The point is, if you don't really need that particular program for your work( or play), then it's just sitting there taking-up hard disk real estate. A lot of old programs scattered around your hard disk may slow it down. Worse, some of those programs may have security vulnerabilities. So clean-out and delete/uninstall any programs that you don't really need. "Sparse" is better.

Neobyte Solutions Invisible Secrets

2007-02-20T09:07:00.000+08:00

Keep those prying eyes out of your communications and prevent unwanted people from reading your private files!

Invisible Secrets 4 not only encrypts your data and files for safe keeping or for secure transfer across the net, it also hides them in places that on the surface appear totally innocent, such as picture or sound files, or web pages. These types of files are a perfect disguise for sensitive information. Using our file encryption software nobody, not even your wife, boss, or a hacker would realize that your important papers or letters are stored in your last holiday pictures, or that you use your personal web page to exchange messages or secret documents. With Invisible Secrets 4 - File encryption software you may encrypt and hide files directly from Windows Explorer, and then automatically transfer them by e-mail or via the Internet.

It features strong file encryption algorithms (including AES - Rijndael), a password management solution that stores all your passwords securely and helps you create secure passwords, a shredder that helps you destroy beyond recovery files, folders and internet traces, a locker that allows you to password protect certain applications, the ability to create self-decrypting packages and mail them to your friends or business partners, a tool that allows you to transfer a password securely over the internet, and a cryptboard to help you use the program from Windows Explorer. Invisible Secrets 4 - File encryption software is shell integrated and offers a wizard that guides you through all the necessary steps needed to protect your data.

A Preview of Microsoft's Windows Vista

2007-01-05T03:23:00.000+08:00

Amid speculation that Microsoft might again slip in its own timetable for the successor to Windows XP, the software giant today released the first public beta of its new Windows Vista operating system. The tweaks to prepublic release build 5381 (the version we reviewed) appear to be aimed at a wider, consumer market, providing first-time users of the new operating system with a smoother install, a small selection of desktop gadgets, and a filled-out help section (in previous builds, help was absent).

Warning: Your Vista mileage will vary
Microsoft has published the minimum hardware requirements to run Vista, however, the page includes two columns: requirements for systems that are either capable of or optimal for running Vista. Microsoft says: "Windows Vista-Capable PCs will be able to run at least the core experiences of Windows Vista ... [while] Windows Vista Premium-Ready PCs can deliver even better Windows Vista experiences." That means different hardware will give users different Vista experiences; for example, many beta testers will not be able to experience the Aero graphics capabilities on their current machines.

Also, beta 2 contains what Microsoft calls its Windows Vista Ultimate edition, meaning that every possible feature is available in this build. When Vista goes to market early in 2007, there will be considerably fewer features available in Windows Vista Home and Windows Vista Home Premium, the editions expected to be available on retail store shelves and to ship OEM on all new PCs. Business and Enterprise customers will have more networking features but fewer entertainment features.

A Windows Vista Capable PC includes at least:

A modern processor (at least 800MHz).
512 MB of system memory.
A graphics processor that is DirectX 9 capable.
20GB GB of hard drive capacity.

A Windows Vista Premium Ready PC(Recommended) includes at least:

1 GHz 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor.
1 GB of system memory.
Support for DirectX 9 graphics with a WDDM driver, 128 MB of graphics memory (minimum), Pixel Shader 2.0 and 32 bits per pixel.
40 GB of hard drive capacity with 15 GB free space.
DVD-ROM Drive.
Audio output capability.
Internet access capability.

Installation
Since beta 2 is not ready for prime time, you should install it on a new partition or on a nonproduction PC. Microsoft has attempted to make the installation process as fast as possible, copying an image of the operating system onto your hard drive, then expanding that image into individual files. Once complete, Vista asks for a username, a choice of icon, and a password for the primary account holder. You then get to choose your wallpaper design. Finally, you are asked to set the security levels, with the default letting Vista make the right choices for you. Without a reboot, the new operating system starts.

Welcome Center
When you first launch Vista, aside from the impressive graphics, you should also see a Welcome Center dialog box. The box includes details about the PC you are using, plus icons to answer common questions such as how to transfer files from your old OS, add a printer, connect to the Internet, set up Windows Media Player, or view your computer details and Windows settings.

Gadgets
Windows Vista launches with three default gadgets (widgets) on the far right side of the desktop. These include a slide show, an analog clock, and a Real Simple Syndication (RSS) reader. A plus sign near the top opens additional options, including games, a calculator, a currency translator, an onscreen notepad, and an onscreen computer diagnostics gauge.

Start meets Search
New users will appreciate the streamlined Start menu. The right column has been simplified to show tasks, such as Documents, Pictures, Music, and Games. While you can still view All Programs, Microsoft has included the tree structure within the Start menu. But if you want to find what you're looking for fast, try the new integrated search. Type word, and instantly find and execute your copy of Microsoft Office Word, or, if you prefer, Wordpad.

Instant off
In the lower right, Microsoft gives you more options than just "change user" and "off." In Vista you can instantly turn off your PC by quickly capturing your active desktop session in memory so that you can keep working when you restart your PC. You can also lock your computer, set it to sleep, hibernate, or completely shut down.

Automated help
New in Windows Vista beta 2 is a fully fleshed out help and support section. Vista still includes built-in help FAQs and online resources from the Microsoft knowledge base but adds several more options. For example, within the Help window, you can now arrange for remote assistance from a fellow Vista user, join an online forum, or contact Microsoft support. Some FAQs also feature automated help. By clicking "Check the version of a driver," for example, then "Do it automatically," your desktop dims slightly as an illuminated arrow floats across the screen, showing you what you would click if you were doing this yourself. At several points, the animation stops and a dialog box opens to request an answer before proceeding.

New file structure
Forget back slashes and directory trees. Windows Vista allows you to move files around on your hard drive--even virtually--without physically moving the files. You can, for example, save a file to a remote drive within the Save As window; no need to create a new folder, name it, then populate it with a file.

BitLocker
One feature that's gotten a fair amount of press but will be available only in the Ultimate and Enterprise editions is BitLocker, a way to encrypt your entire hard drive. By encrypting the contents of your hard drive, hackers will have a harder time benefiting from the theft of a laptop. Unlike third-party drive encryption, which requires you to log in, then boot into Windows, Microsoft combines these steps for faster access to Windows Vista.

Flash memory
Don't have enough RAM to launch an application? If you have a USB drive greater than 258MB installed, a feature called ReadyBoost can direct Windows Vista to use some of that flash memory for an added assist. If you have a hybrid hard drive with built-in flash, Windows ReadyDrive can use that memory to save your desktop work session for fast access upon reboot.

Network Center
Don't remember how to connect your PC to a LAN or your home wireless network? Windows Vista takes all the related tools and conveniently relocates them in one, easy-to-use centre.

Windows Meeting Space
Formerly known as Windows Collaboration, Windows Meeting Space allows up to 10 wireless users to establish an ad hoc network, allowing the members of that ad hoc session to share Microsoft Office PowerPoint presentations, control of another's desktop, and individual files. This is designed for business travelers meeting in a cafe or waiting for an airplane.

Softwares included: Internet Explorer 7 for Vista, Windows Defender, Windows Media Center, and Windows Media Player 11.

Ten Steps to a Secure PC

2007-01-03T16:26:00.000+08:00

The Internet can hold a host of dangers for the unwary computer user. Without proper precautions, your data is at risk every minute your system is connected to the web.

With this guide, I have set out to inform you clearly and concisely of the dangers you face, and the steps you can take to avoid them. Once you look through, I think you'll be struck by how little effort is required to make your PC more secure. Even performing the first five steps of this guide will make your system better protected than the vast majority of Internet connected PCs. It is not wise to rely on the comparative anonymity of the Internet to keep you safe. If you do, you will be burned eventually and inevitably. Secure your PC now to avoid future regrets.

The next five procedures can be considered essential for any computer user that values the sanctity of his or her data. By following these five easy steps, you can avoid 99% of the potential trouble lying in wait for you on the Internet.

Step 1. Use a strong password

The danger: malicious computer users can gain access to your computer over the Internet, stealing and deleting data and potentially implanting viruses and Trojan horses.

The cause:The major irony of Microsoft's shift from non-password protected home operating systems like Windows 98 and ME to the password and access-list based 'security' of Windows 2000 and XP is that your data is actually less secure by default.

Sure, the new operating systems give security conscious users all the tools they need to protect their data, but what if the users are not aware of the risks? During the install process, you are prompted to create a password for the built-in 'administrator' user account. Users accustomed to Windows 9X/ME's pointless passwords often decide to bypass this by entering a blank password, thus opening up their entire computer to anyone who takes the trouble to look twice at their Internet address.

There are two reasons for this vulnerability: One, every Microsoft Windows XP and 2000 system has a built-in account called 'administrator' which has full access to all files and configuration settings of the computer. Anyone who is remotely familiar with these operating systems knows of this account's existence. This definitely includes anyone who might try to break into your computer.

The other factor in Windows 2000 and XP's vulnerability is the presence of hidden administrative shares. Each logical drive (C:, D:, etc.) on your system, plus the Windows directory, is actually shared (made available for remote access) by default. These hidden shares are only accessible to Users with administrative privileges, but once an intruder has your administrator account password, he has your entire system laid open for him.

By using one of a multitude of free and legal software tools, a potential intruder can easily locate and gain access to your data by finding your IP address and attempting to connect using the administrator account. Obviously, if there is no password on the account, you are defenseless.

Even if you have put a password on the account, you may not be safe. Simple passwords can easily be discovered by an intruder using a 'dictionary attack' software tool, which can try words and combinations of letters until your password is compromised.

The administrator account is uniquely open to this style of attack, because while other user accounts can be 'locked' by the operating system if an incorrect password is entered too many times, the administrator account cannot be locked out. This means that an intruder is free to try as many password possibilities as he or she wants, without worrying about losing access to your system.

The cure: Set effective passwords for all users

The best way to protect yourself from malicious users is to effectively password protect all your user accounts. An effective password, according to Microsoft, is at least seven characters long and contains a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers and symbols. While you can cut corners a bit here in the interests of memorization, make sure to use six or more characters and include at least some numbers and upper case letters in the middle of the word. By using several characters and a mix of upper and lower case letters and numbers, you can make your password effectively uncrackable to intruders who do not possess super computers capable of predicting the weather...

To change user passwords make sure you are logged in as a user with administrative privileges (the first user created during the XP install process has these). Right click on 'my computer' and select 'manage.' Expand 'local users and groups' then 'users.' Right click on each user and select 'set password.'

Note the ominous warning message. If you have used XP's built-in file encryption to protect any of your files, you must remove it before you change your password or you will lose access to the files. Otherwise, proceed and set a secure password for each account.

The accounts you should set passwords for are the administrator account, and any accounts you created during or after the installation of Windows.

Step 2. Make sure your system is protected by a firewall

The Danger: Malicious users may locate and attempt to break into your computer from the Internet.

The Cause: All computers that communicate over the Internet must have a valid IP address, such as 61.232.252.6. These addresses allow computers to exchange data with other computers over the 'net. Your system also leaves a variety of ports open to listen for incoming data. Ports are access points for certain kinds of data to enter and leave your computer. For example, while you are viewing this website, your computer and our web server are communicating through port 80, the default port for the HTTP language that web pages generally use.

The trouble is that anyone can use freely available software like GFI's LANguard security scanner to scan a range of IP addresses for computers and gather information about these systems. If your computer is poorly password protected these utilities provide remote users with the ability to directly access your files.

This happens because by default, many ports in your system are fully prepared to listen and respond to any data request from the Internet. This means that your system is fully visible, the equivalent of wearing glow-in-the dark clothes in a blackout…

The cure: Use a firewall program or device.

A firewall is a software program or hardware device which blocks remote access to your computer. It does this by closing all ports to data unless the communication is initiated from inside the firewall first. So you could, for example, surf this page without problems through a firewall since your computer sends the request for data to our web server first.

The firewall would note the Internet address that your request was sent to, and allow return communications from that specific address back through the firewall. However, anyone trying to scan a range of IP addresses for vulnerable computers would turn up a blank for your address, since the firewall blocks all unsolicited communication from the Internet.

Almost all home Internet sharing devices include firewalls, so if you are using a router to share your Internet connection within your home, you are likely already protected. Otherwise you need to use a software firewall. Windows XP comes included with one, though you need to activate it. Several free third-party software firewalls are also available, most notably Zone Lab's Zonealarm.

To activate the Windows XP firewall go to 'start/control panel/network and Internet connections/network connections' then right click on your Internet connection and select 'properties'.

Go to the 'advanced' tab and check the 'internet connection firewall' box.

The windows XP firewall is now active and will block most non-requested data from entering your system.
If you have installed Service Pack 2 for Windows XP, the firewall works a little differently. Unless you have another form of firewall software like Zonealarm installed, the XP firewall should be active by default.

To check this, go to 'start\control panel\windows firewall' and ensure that the firewall is set to the 'on (recommended)' position. The 'windows firewall' icon in control panel is only available to Service Pack 2 users, so if it's not there, simply follow the directions given in the last paragraphs.

To use Zonealarm first download and install the software.

Go to 'alerts and logs' and change the 'alert events shown' setting to off. This is just to prevent the program informing you every time it blocks data remotely.

The main advantage of Zonealarm over the XP firewall is its ability to block data coming from inside your system out to the Internet. This enables it to catch Trojan horse viruses and Spyware in the act and prevent them from sending privacy and security compromising data from your system. Zonealarm will pop-up a permission box every time a program attempts to access the Internet.

If it's a recognized program like IE, you can allow it permanent access by checking 'yes' and 'do not ask this question again.' Otherwise, you can go to the 'program control/programs' window within Zonealarm and manually set which applications can access the Internet.

Step 3. Use antivirus software

The Danger: Computer viruses can cripple your computer and destroy your data.

The cause: There are an incredible variety of computer viruses on the Internet, with many different ways of infecting your system. The stereotypical vector for viruses is the email attachment, and this is still the most common source of infection for unwary users. Opening up a seemingly innocent attachment from a friend can have disastrous consequences. There are few computer users who have not experienced the effects of a computer virus at some point, and malicious coders keep churning them out.

The cure: Install and use a professional antivirus program

Using an antivirus software package from a reputable manufacturer like Symantec or MacAfee provides an effective defence against viruses. You should scan your system for viruses once a week at least, and use the software to examine any email attachments you are unsure about. Many packages, like Norton Antivirus, come with auto-protection features which will scan any files entering or leaving your system for viruses.

While this is fairly self explanatory, a couple of extra tips: if you're going to buy and install anti-virus software, do it now, before you get infected with a virus, rather than waiting until your system starts to act up. The reason for this is that many viruses have components that can disable or subvert popular antivirus programs like Norton's and McAfee's software. So if your system is infected before you install the antivirus software, it may not be able to help you.

Secondly, make sure you keep the program updated. Antivirus software manufacturers are constantly creating new sets of virus definitions to keep up with new threats. Without updated definitions, the software will not stop newer viruses from infecting your PC. Most reputable antivirus programs will update themselves automatically when you are connected to the Internet, but it doesn't hurt to make sure you have the latest update before you scan for viruses.

Personally I recommend the use of Eset's NOD32 as your choice of antivirus program, refer to my previous blog entry about NOD32.

Step 4. Check your PC for spyware and adware

The Danger: Spyware and Adware programs can quickly infest your PC, compromising privacy and performance.

The cause: Spyware and adware are generic names for a variety of programs designed to collect data and/or advertise products. Sound innocent? The catch is that these programs are often installed on your PC from websites or as part of 'free' software like Kazaa, and work from inside your computer, gathering information about your surfing habits for marketing purposes. Worse, this is only the tip of the iceberg.

Programs in this category may call up extra pop-up advertising while you are surfing, or even redirect your browser to websites of their own choosing. While makers of this type of software need to obtain your consent to install their programs, they are often presented in misleading ways, or hidden within the license agreements of other software.

There is a second category of programs involved as well, browser hijackers. These malicious programs can subvert your web browser's home page and links and generally cannot be removed without great difficulty. At their worst, these programs can make using your computer a trial. System and Internet performance can be slowed due to the extra data being sent from your computer, and floods of (often obscene) advertisements may dog your Internet surfing experience.

The cure: Install and use a reputable spyware finding/removal tool.

Fortunately, certain individuals have devoted a lot of time and effort to create free software which is specifically aimed at removing these (legal) pests from your system. One software system we tend to use is Ad-Aware, freely available from the Lavasoft website as it is the most popular and frequently updated removal tool. Ad-Aware functions much like any antivirus program, so it should seem instantly familiar to most users.

Use the 'check for updates now' function to make sure you have the latest updates. Hit the 'start' button and choose 'next' to scan your system with the default options.

Once the scan is complete, you will be shown any suspicious files, registry entries or cookies detected. You can now delete or quarantine these files.

If Ad-aware found and removed malicious software, you should empty your recycling bin and restart your computer and scan again to make sure it is completely removed. Make sure to rescan your computer weekly.

Other recommend antispyware programs are Xoftspy, Spysweeper and ScanSpyware.

If you are using NOD32 you don't need to install a separate antispyware program because NOD32 also protects your PC from spywares and adwares.

Step 5. Update update update

The Danger: Viruses and malicious users may exploit newly discovered security holes within Windows and Internet Explorer.

The Cause: Windows XPis an extremely complex operating system, and as such has a number of bugs and design holes which are constantly in the process of being fixed by Microsoft. On the other side of the fence, there are users who are enthusiastically trying to discover these flaws, either for the purpose of informing Microsoft or just for the heck of it.

Generally, major vulnerabilities or flaws are patched almost immediately after their existence is made known, or even before. However, users who do not update their systems with the new patch are at the mercy of anyone using software tools designed to exploit the vulnerability.

A recent example of this would be the infamous 'blaster' worm which used a weakness in Window's RPC (Remote Procedure Call) handling to infest an enormous number of systems across the world. Once on a system, the virus could spread itself out to other vulnerable PC's and also force its host to shut down automatically. Microsoft quickly patched the security hole and provided a tool to remove the worm, but since many users did not patch their systems, the infestation spread and slowed down Internet traffic worldwide.

The Cure: Keep your Windows computer up-to-date with the latest Microsoft security patches.

Windows XP includes an automatic updating feature which will periodically check Microsoft for updates and download them to your system, ready for installation. To use automatic update, right click on 'my computer' and select properties, then choose the 'automatic updates' tab.

If it is not already, check the 'keep my computer up to date…' checkbox to enable automatic updating. Now run Windows update from 'start\all programs\windows update' to make sure you are fully patched for now. Windows update will now periodically check Microsoft's site for updates and download them to your PC. You will be prompted with an icon in the task bar when new updates are available.

Advanced security steps: The following five procedures will provide you with an extra blanket of security to complement the essential changes you just made to your system.

Step 6. Change the name of the administrative account

The Danger: Malicious users may attempt to use the built-in 'administrator' user account to gain access to your PC.

The cause: As mentioned above, every Windows 2000 and XP installation includes an 'administrator' user account which has full control over files and system settings. This account cannot be locked or disabled and is thus the first target for anyone trying to hack into your computer. While the account should already have a password, provided you followed the procedure above, this does not protect it from attack.

The Cure: rename the administrator account.

Renaming the administrator account adds an extra layer of security by removing the standard user name 'administrator' which any malicious user will try first when attempting to gain access to your PC.

Make sure you are logged in as a user with administrative privileges - the first user created during the XP install process has these, as does the administrator. Right click on 'my computer' and select 'manage.' Expand 'local users and groups' then 'users.' Highlight the 'administrator' account and right click. Choose 'rename' and change the account to a name of your choosing.

Step 7. Disable 'hidden' shares within XP and 2000

The Danger : malicious users can easily gain access to every file and folder in your computer.

The Cause: Windows 2000 and XP both use a system of hidden administrative shares. Every drive on your computer system is shared under the name '(drive letter)$.' These shares exist to allow users with the correct username and password to remotely administer files on your computer. Of course, if a malicious user obtains a username and password with administrative rights to your system, all your files and folders are available to them over the Internet. They would be free to copy, change or delete as much of your data as they saw fit.

The cure: Disable the hidden shares.

Unless you are in a business environment, it is unlikely you will have a need for the hidden shares. Disabling them will considerably reduce the danger of your data being compromised remotely.

You will need to edit theWindows registry using REGEDIT in order to carry out this step. Please ensure that you backup your registry to a file before editing it.

To disable the hidden shares first start REGEDIT ('start\run' and type 'regedit') and then navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Services\lanmanserver\parameters

Add the Dword value 'AutoShareWks' with a value of '0' and restart your computer.

Step 8. Change Internet Explorer security settings

The Danger: Viruses and browser hijacking programs can infect your system through the use of ActiveX code on certain websites.

The Cause: By default, Internet Explorer will run certain content, including small programs embedded in the code of a website. An example of this sort of thing would be a pop-up ad asking you whether you wish to install so-and-so's software. Say yes and you may have just saddled yourself with a spyware problem. Certain malicious software may not even have the courtesy to ask before it has its way with your browser.

The cure: Raise Internet Explorer's default security level.

Fortunately, IE can be set to a more restrictive level of security. At this setting, the browser will not run certain types of content found on websites. This includes potentially malicious ActiveX code. Of course, this can also change your web browsing experience, as it will cut off certain content from safe websites also. To get around this, you can add known safe sites that you regularly visit to Internet Explorer's 'trusted sites' list.

To raise IE's security level:

Open Internet Explorer, go to the 'tools' menu and select 'Internet options.' Now select the 'security' tab.

Set the Internet zone to the 'high' security setting. This will ensure that IE will not run ActiveX instructions, the means by which most browser hijackers get access to your computer. You can place trusted websites that you regularly visit into the 'trusted sites' Internet zone.

Site addresses that you enter here will be mostly unrestricted, allowing them to display their content properly.

Step 9. Secure your shared files

The Danger: Intruders may access your shared files

The Cause: By default, Windows XP uses the simple file sharing system. This allows any user that has authenticated to your computer to have full access to all shared files. In Windows XP Home, the 'guest' user account is the account used by all remote users to access shared files. Of course, the guest account has no password by default, allowing unlimited, non-password access to your shared files for virtually anyone who finds your IP address.

While a firewall will block this type of access in most cases, it still pays to limit your venerability by configuring simple file sharing and the guest user account more securely than the default.

The Cure: Secure and configure the guest user account

If you are using Windows XP Professional, you should password protect and disable the guest account. This will force any intruder to use one of the user accounts you created or the administrator account, both of which should now be secure if you followed the above procedures.

Make sure you are logged in as a user with administrative privileges (the first user created during the XP install process has these, as does the administrator).

Right click on 'my computer' and select 'manage.' Expand 'local users and groups' then 'users.' Highlight the 'guest' account and right click. Choose 'set password' and provide the account with a secure password. Now right-click the guest account again and choose 'properties.'

Check the 'account is disabled' box.If you are using Windows XP Home, you cannot truly disable the guest account, as it is used as an integral part of the file sharing system. You can password protect it though… Bring up the command prompt (start/run and type 'cmd') and type 'net user guest password' where 'password' is the password you want to use to secure the account.

Step 10. Stop using Internet Explorer and Outlook Express

The Danger: many viruses and malicious programs target Internet Explorer and Outlook Express specifically.

The Cause: IE and OE are unquestionably the most popular web browser and email client in the world. They are the default applications that a majority of Windows users are familiar with. Because of this, many viruses and other malicious programs are created to target specific vulnerabilities in these two programs. Since the user base is so huge, they can afford to be specific. These viruses generally will not affect systems which employ other products for their web browsing and email retrieval.

The Cure: Learn to use a new web browser and email client.

There are several free browsers and email clients available that can easily replace IE and Outlook Express. The trick is to get used to using them. By not using IE and OE, you considerably reduce the danger of infecting your system with a virus.

Some examples of alternate browsers and mail clients include;Mozilla the makers of this popular browser also offer Thunderbird, a free email client.Opera. Eudora which is an ad-supported mail client with a long and successful history.

AntiCrash: the most powerful anti-crash tool for PC.

2007-01-02T20:33:00.000+08:00

AntiCrash can intercept and fix up to 95.8% crashes, errors, freezes and blue screens. When a crash occurs, AntiCrash fixes it automatically; you have nothing to do!

New! AntiCrash now also includes a unique technology, AutoRepair™. With AutoRepair™, scan & repair all your computer problems with a single click - AutoRepair™ automatically determines what is wrong on your computer with an advanced Artificial Intelligence system, and fixes it instantly!

* Total protection from crashes and freezes
AntiCrash protects your computer like no other software can. Not only AntiCrash protects you against 95.8% crashes, but it also automatically fixes the crashes; you don't have to do anything, AntiCrash does all the work for you! AntiCrash is also the only software capable of intercepting blue screens and freezes.

* AutoRepair technology included
With AutoRepair, using dozens of separate tools to scan your computer is now forgotten. AutoRepair can find and repair thousands of thousands of problems, with its built-in advanced Artificial Intelligence - all automatically!

* Anti-boot system for Yahoo Messenger
Because sometimes hackers can be just as dangerous as crashes, AntiCrash introduces BootSafe, your ticket for boot-free chatting with Yahoo. If a malicious user tries to boot you, BootSafe intercepts it and deactivates the attempt. You can even configure AntiCrash to ignore certain User IDs!

* Files protected from corruption
Sometimes, a crash can corrupt your data. Not with AntiCrash, and its built-in safeguard Lifebelt. Lifebelt will automatically backup a copy of all open files if a crash occurs, making it sure for you to always recover all the files you were working on.

* Easy to use
In addition to revolutionary technologies and near-to-perfect performance, AntiCrash features a state-of-art interface, extremely easy to use. Our interface fully respects Microsoft's guidelines and is very intuitive. Most of the time, you don't have to do anything at all, since AntiCrash works in background, but should you decide to explore its interface and expert features, you'd be surprised how ease of use can mix with advanced functionality.

* Smart Software™
AntiCrash is adaptive and knows what to let you know and when. If you forget to run AutoRepair, it will automatically remind you to do so; the Main Menu allows you to know AntiCrash's status in a glance; and the list goes on.

* And much more
AntiCrash features other great functions, such as damaged file recovery or lost data recovery! It is impossible to list all of AntiCrash's functions on a single webpage.

http://www.dachshundsoftware.com

HARE 1.5.1 PC ACCELERATOR

2007-01-02T20:30:00.000+08:00

Hare: the best acceleration utility for PC.

With Hare, accelerate any computer up to 300%, even latest generation PCs using Pentium 4 or Athlon MP; simply install Hare and be accelerated.

* Accelerate your computer automatically
Hare doesn't use "classic" acceleration methods, such as a few registry tweaks, and few modified settings. Hare will improve performance no matter what software you use, thanks to a revolutionary compact 88-bit Kernel, which accelerates common system instructions. In addition to that, Hare has a very complete CPU Tasking technology designed to fit your needs; Hare determines automatically what program you use, and how much CPU it must allocate to it.

* Mem Doubler or intelligent RAM management
There are dozens of RAM defragmentation software for PC; forget them all. Mem Doubler has a unique function which is able to determine when your RAM needs to be defragmented! Just tick a checkbox, and Mem Doubler will adapt to your computing style.

* Automatic RAM preservation
How can you run over thirty heavy programs such as Adobe Photoshop or Macromedia Dreamweaver with only 128Mb of RAM? With Hare, and its "Automatic RAM preservation" function: it distributes RAM to programs when they need it, not when they want it. [Example]

* Accelerate games
With a set of pre-programmed instructions compatible with nearly all PC games, GameZap will increase your game's frames per second by near 10% in most cases. And GameZap is compatible with OpenGL!

* Easy to use
Hare features a state-of-art interface, extremely easy to use. Our interface fully respects Microsoft's guidelines and is very intuitive. Most of the time, you won't have to configure Hare, since it works in background, but if you want for example to check out how much free memory you have, or if you feel like fine-tweaking Hare, you'll be delighted by its ease of use, eye-candy icons and comprehensive wizards.

* And much more
Hare features other great functions, such as WinOptimize, a wizard that automatically cleans and optimizes Windows! It is impossible to list all of Hare's functions on a single webpage, so why don't you get it now and find out what it feels to have a really fast computer?

Website: http://www.dachshundsoftware.com

Auslogics Disk Defrag - Defrag Your Disks Faster

2007-01-02T20:19:00.000+08:00

Disk fragmentation leads to system slowdowns, PC crashes, slow startup and shutdown and sometimes to system failures. Auslogics Disk Defrag® is designed for fast optimization of today's modern hard disks. Get the maximum performance out of your expensive hardware investments. And it's absolutely FREE.

Improve computer performance and stability
Increase your productivity - no more waiting for files to open
Defragment disks in only a few minutes
Useful disk fragmentation map and detailed fragmentation report
Windows XP Home and Professional, 2000/2003 and Vista supported

DOWNLOAD IT HERE

NOD32: Recommend Antivirus/Antispyware Software

2007-01-02T12:57:00.000+08:00

Here are several reason why I recommend NOD32 as your choice for antivirus/antispyware software:

Comprehensive Protection:

Running separate applications for viruses, hackers, adware, and spyware can slow your PC, be difficult to manage, and provide questionable protection. Beware of large, bloated internet security suites that consume hundreds of megabytes on your PC. These typically exist because vendors have acquired products and 'bundled' them together. In contrast, ESET NOD32 was designed from the core as a single, highly-optimized engine that works as a unified Anti-Threat system to protect against a broad spectrum of malware. Viruses, worms, spyware, and other malicious attacks, which are constantly evolving. ESET NOD32 utilizes patent-pending ThreatSense® Technology to detect tomorrow's threats in real-time, by analyzing code execution for malicious intent - keeping you ahead of the malware-writers.

Minimal Performance Impact
NOD32 conserves resources in memory and on disk, leaving more for your critical applications. The installer is just 11 MB and the application consumes an average 23 MB in memory (this fluctuates with changes to the detection technology). ThreatSense updates, which includes heuristics logic and signatures, are usually between 20 kB and 50 kB. Switch to NOD32 and be more productive.

Fastest Scanning
Great protection doesn't have to slow down your computer. Written largely in assembly language, NOD32 continually wins awards for the fastest performance of any antivirus application, on average 3 to 34 times faster than the competition (source: Virus Bulletin). Switch to NOD32 and upgrade your computer's performance.

Easy to Manage
Program and database updates are automatically performed behind the scenes. If you're an individual or home office user you can just 'set it and forget it.' Businesses and organizations with large distributed networks can use the powerful Remote Administrator to centrally deploy, install, monitor and manage thousands of NOD32 workstations and servers. Get the best protection with the smallest footprint and fastest performance. NOD32 offers multiple layers of protection for your organization, at the desktop, file server and mail gateway. Find out which solution is best for you.

Proactive Real-Time Detection
The best security is proactive. Malware protection must be real-time at the point of impact. Every minute one waits for a virus signature update creates a window of vulnerability that could have devastating consequences. ESET NOD32's ThreatSense® Technology closes the window of vulnerability left open by other reactive , signature-based responses.

NOD32 analyzes application execution in real-time for malicious intent to detect and block over 90% of new malware threats proactively, without the need for signature updates in most cases. Most other vendors release signatures hours after their customers have been victimized and submitted samples.

Protection against threats from multiple input vectors is provided by the following modules:

Antivirus MONitor (AMON)
An on-access (memory-resident) scanner, which automatically scans files before they're accessed.

NOD32
An on-demand scanner, which can be run manually on specific files or disk segments. It can also be scheduled to run during off-peak times.

Internet MONitor (IMON)
A memory-resident scanner that runs on the Winsock level to prevent infected files from reaching the computer's disks. Its scans internet web browsing traffic (HTTP) and incoming e-mail via the POP3 protocol.

E-mail MONitor (EMON)
An auxiliary module for scanning incoming/outgoing e-mails via the MAPI interface, such as Microsoft Outlook Microsoft Exchange.

Document MONitor (DMON)
Utilizes the proprietary Microsoft API for scanning Microsoft Office documents (including Internet Explorer).

Website: NOD32.com

CCLeaner: De-Clogging your PC

2007-01-02T12:17:00.000+08:00

CCleaner is a freeware PC optimization tool. It combines a system cleaner that removes unused and temporary files from your system and also a fully featured registry cleaner! CCleaner allows Windows to run faster, more efficiently and gives you more hard disk space.The best part is that it's Small, Fast and Free!

Cleans the following Windows components:

Internet Explorer
- Temporary File Cache.
- URL History.
- Cookies.
- Hidden Index.dat files.
- Last download file location.
Firefox
- Temporary File Cache.
- URL History.
- Cookies.
- Download manager.
Recycle Bin
Clipboard
Windows Temporary files
Windows Log files.
Recent Documents (on the Start Menu).
Run history (on the Start Menu).
Windows XP Search Assistant history.
Windows XP old Prefetch data.
Windows memory dumps after crashes.
Chkdsk file fragments.

Advanced Options allow cleaning of:

Menu Order cache
Tray Notifications Cache
Window Size and Location Cache
User Assist history
IIS Log Files
Custom Folders

Application Cleaning:

As well as cleaning up old files and settings left by standard Windows components, CCleaner also cleans temporary files and recent file lists for many applications. Including:

Firefox, Opera, Media Player, eMule, Kazaa, Google Toolbar, Netscape, Office XP, Nero, Adobe Acrobat, WinRAR, WinAce, WinZip and more...

Registry Issue Cleaning:

CCleaner uses an advanced Registry to check for problems and inconsistencies in your registry. It can check the following:

File Extensions
ActiveX Controls
ClassIDs
ProgIDs
Uninstallers
Shared DLLs
Fonts
Help File references
Application Paths
Icons
Invalid Shortcuts and more...

Safety:

CCleaner was designed from the ground to be safe and secure to use. It has multiple levels of checks in place to ensure that it cannot delete any useful information or documents you may still need. We also certify that it contains no Spyware or Adware.

High Security:

For the super cautious users we also offer secure file erasing. By overwriting the files before deleting them, making it impossible to recover the data.

Multiple Languages:

Thanks to the translators, CCleaner is available in 31 different languages:

English, Albanian, Arabic, Catalan, Chinese (Simp), Chinese (Trad), Czech/Slovak, Danish, Dutch, Finnish, French, Galician, German, Greek, Hebrew, Hungarian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Lithuanian, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Portuguese (Brazilian), Romanian, Russian, Serbian Cyrillic, Serbian Latin, Spanish, Swedish and Turkish.

Screenshots:

Download: CCLEANER.COM

My Personal Assessment:
I use this when I'm using my PC. I run this before using the PC so that "clutters" are removed.

DriverGuide Toolkit - Backup Your Drivers Faster

2007-01-02T11:27:00.000+08:00

DriverGuide Toolkit identifies and lists drivers installed on your computer and, when connected to the Internet, allows you to search DriverGuide.com (and other sources) for driver updates and manufacturer sites. In addition, it allows you to backup your currently installed drivers for safe keeping. Backing up your Windows driver files means that they will be available to you the next time you need to reinstall the driver or the whole operating system. DriverGuide Toolkit places the driver files in one organized location of your choosing.

DriverGuide Toolkit is especially helpful in situations where you have a computer in your possession and the internal hardware is unknown. DriverGuide Toolkit can identify the hardware on the system and the associated drivers, back them up to a specified location, and find the latest driver updates for them. DriverGude Toolkit is even network compatible - you can just as easily connect to a remote computer on your network, backup drivers, and find updates!

My personal assessment:

I use this software everytime I do some reinstallation and upgrading jobs. Rather than installing the driver's one by one, using Driver Guide toolkit would make my job faster and efficient.

Website: DriverGuide Toolkit

ProTech 2.0 - The Introduction

2007-01-02T11:21:00.000+08:00

ProTech 2.0 is a PC troubleshooting, maintenance and upgrade blogsite which centers on PC Hardwares and Utility softwares. This would also include product reviews on the latest hardwares and utility softwares.