How do I change my IP? There are MANY methods to change your IP. Some methods will work for you but may not work for someone else and vice versa.
If your IP is static, then you CAN’T change it without contacting your ISP.
If you have a long lease time (explained in this article) on your IP then you won’t be able to change your IP without cloning your MAC address, which I’ll explain later in this article.
It definitely helps if you know how the IP is being assigned to you.
What is an IP lease time? IP lease time is the amount of time your ISP determines you’ll be assigned a particular IP. Some IP lease times are just a few days and other IP lease times could be set for a year or more. This setting is completely up to your ISP.
METHOD ONE
One of the easier methods to change your IP is to turn off your modem/router/computer overnight. Then turn it back on the following morning. This method WILL NOT work if your ISP has a long lease time set for your IP.
METHOD TWO
The following method will ONLY work if your computer is being assigned your external IP and not a router.
How to determine if your computer is being assigned the external IP
If your connection is direct to your computer and your computer gets the public IP and not a router, you can try this:For Windows 2000, XP, and 20031. Click Start2. Click Run3. Type in cmd and hit ok (this opens a Command Prompt)4. Type ipconfig /release and hit enter5. Click Start, Control Panel, and open Network Connections6. Find and Right click on the active Local Area Connection and choose Properties7. Double-click on the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)8. Click on Use the following IP address9. Enter a false IP like 123.123.123.12310. Press Tab and the Subnet Mask section will populate with default numbers11. Hit OK twice12. Right click the active Local Area Connection again and choose Properties13. Double-click on the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)14. Choose Obtain an IP address automatically15. Hit OK twice16. Go to What Is My IP to see if you have a new IP addressFor Vista1. Click Start2. Click All Programs expand the Accessories menu3. In the Accessories menu, Right Click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator4. Type ipconfig /release and hit enter5. Click Start, Control Panel, and open Network and Sharing Center. Depending on your view, you may have to click Network and Internet before you see the Network and Sharing Center icon6. From the Tasks menu on the left, choose Manage Network Connections7. Find and Right click on the active Local Area Connection and choose Properties (If you’re hit with a UAC prompt, choose Continue)8. Double-click on Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)9. Click on Use the following IP address10. Enter a false IP like 123.123.123.12311. Press Tab and the Subnet Mask section will populate with default numbers12. Hit OK twice13. Right click the active Local Area Connection again and choose Properties14. Double-click on Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)15. Choose Obtain an IP address automatically16. Hit OK twice17. Go to What Is My IP to see if you have a new IP address
Some people have inquired about manually assigning their IP address. This is possible, but you run a very high risk of your ISP banning you from connecting to the internet. To manually change your IP, follow the steps above for your Operating System. In step 9 or 10, depending on your O/S, enter an IP similar to the one displayed in the command prompt window. For example, if the IP displayed in the command prompt window is 75.1.2.3, change yours to 75.1.2.4. You’ll also need to manually enter the Subnet, Gateway and DNS Server IP addresses as well. If the new IP you give your computer doesn’t work, chances are someone else on the ISP network has already been assigned that IP. You’ll need to move on to the next one and keep trying until you find an open one. However, some ISPs match up your MAC or modem data to the IP that’s been assigned. If those 2 things don’t match up, you won’t be able to connect no matter what. If your router gets the IP and not your computer, you’ll need to http in to your routers interface and manually assign the IP there. It’s pretty much the same method as assigning the IP to your computer. The method that varies is in how you reach your routers interface. You can get the instructions from your manufacturer’s website.
MAC Cloning. What is a MAC address? A MAC address is a physical hardware address assigned to each device that has the capability of connecting to a network. The internet is nothing more than a large network. The MAC address is something that is assigned in the chip on the device and is not something the user can change. MAC cloning can only be done at your router providing it has those capabilities. Most ISPs assign their IPs based on the MAC address in your equipment. If the MAC address of your router is 00-11-22-33-44-55 and you connect to your ISP, the DHCP server records your MAC and assigns an IP. If you disconnect from the ISP, you lose your IP address. The next time you connect, the DHCP server sees your MAC, looks to see if it has assigned an IP address to you before. If it has and the lease time has not expired, it will most likely give you the same IP address you had before disconnecting. Why clone a MAC address? New MAC address most likely equals new IP. How to clone your MAC and if your router has this feature is dependent on the router itself. You’ll need to find the instructions on the manufacturer’s website.
Please post any questions or comments in the Change My IP Address thread.
Wednesday, 25 November 2009
Sunday, 15 November 2009
How To Make Bootable USB
Having a bootable USB is very essential, especially if you are a Netbook user. Using bootable USB to install an operating system (OS) not only makes the installation faster, but also saves a DVD.
Creating or using an USB drive to install Windows operating systems is very easy if you follow the below mentioned steps.
Creating or using an USB drive to install Windows operating systems is very easy if you follow the below mentioned steps.
Here I assume that you are using either Vista or Windows 7 to create a bootable USB.
Let's go........
STEP 1
Insert your USB (4GB+ preferable) stick to the system and backup all the data from the USB as we are going to format the USB to make it as bootable.
STEP 2
STEP 2
Open elevated Command Prompt. To do this, type in CMD in Start menu search field and hit Ctrl + Shift + Enter. Alternatively, navigate to Start > All programs >Accessories > right click on Command Prompt and select run as administrator.
STEP 3
STEP 3
When the Command Prompt opens, enter the following command:
DISKPART and hit enter.
LIST DISK and hit enter.
Once you enter the LIST DISK command, it will show the disk number of your USB drive. In the below image my USB drive disk no is Disk 1.
STEP 4
DISKPART and hit enter.
LIST DISK and hit enter.
Once you enter the LIST DISK command, it will show the disk number of your USB drive. In the below image my USB drive disk no is Disk 1.
STEP 4
In this step you need to enter all the below commands one by one and hit enter. As these commands are self explanatory, you can easily guess what these commands do.
SELECT DISK 1 (Replace DISK 1 with your disk number)
CLEAN
CREATE PARTITION PRIMARY
SELECT PARTITION 1
ACTIVE
FORMAT FS=NTFS
(Format process may take few seconds)
ASSIGN
EXIT
SELECT DISK 1 (Replace DISK 1 with your disk number)
CLEAN
CREATE PARTITION PRIMARY
SELECT PARTITION 1
ACTIVE
FORMAT FS=NTFS
(Format process may take few seconds)
ASSIGN
EXIT
Don’t close the command prompt as we need to execute one more command at the next step. Just minimize it.
STEP 5
STEP 5
Insert your Windows DVD in the optical drive and note down the drive letter of the optical drive and USB media. Here I use “D” as my optical (DVD) drive letter and “H” as my USB drive letter.
STEP 6
STEP 6
Go back to command prompt and execute the following commands:
D:CD BOOT and hit enter. Where “D” is your DVD drive letter.
CD BOOT and hit enter to see the below message.
BOOTSECT.EXE/NT60 H:
(Where “H” is your USB drive letter)
D:CD BOOT and hit enter. Where “D” is your DVD drive letter.
CD BOOT and hit enter to see the below message.
BOOTSECT.EXE/NT60 H:
(Where “H” is your USB drive letter)
STEP 7
Copy Windows DVD contents to USB.
You are done with your bootable USB. You can now use this bootable USB as bootable DVD on any computer that comes with USB boot feature (most of the current motherboards support this feature).
Note that this bootable USB guide will not work if you are trying to make a bootable USB on XP computer.
You are done with your bootable USB. You can now use this bootable USB as bootable DVD on any computer that comes with USB boot feature (most of the current motherboards support this feature).
Note that this bootable USB guide will not work if you are trying to make a bootable USB on XP computer.
How To Increase The Number Of Simultaneous Downloads In IE 7
Anyone who has been involved in browsing for more than a while know that Internet Explorer 7 supports only 2 simultaneous downloads. This is quite annoying if you don’t use Download Manager for Internet Explorer.
Although, you can use download manager for better experience, you can also increase the number of simultaneous downloads by tweaking Windows Registry a-bit. Below are the instructions:
STEP 1.
Although, you can use download manager for better experience, you can also increase the number of simultaneous downloads by tweaking Windows Registry a-bit. Below are the instructions:
STEP 1.
Type “regedit”(without quotes) in Vista start menu search box or in the Run dialog box and hit enter.
STEP 2.
STEP 2.
Click “Continue” for the User Account Control (UAC) prompt.
STEP 3.
STEP 3.
Jump on to the following key in the Windows Registry Editor:HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Internet Settings
STEP 4.
STEP 4.
In the right pane, right-click and create a new DWORD (32-bit) and rename it as “MaxConnectionsPer1_0Server “(without quotes).
STEP 5.
Now, you need to modify its value. Double click on “MaxConnectionsPer1_0Server” and change the value to 3.
STEP 6.
STEP 6.
Once again using step 4 & 5 create another DWORD value “MaxConnectionsPerServer” and change its value to 3.
STEP 7.
You need to restart Internet Explorer in case it’s running and you are done.
Sunday, 30 August 2009
HOW TO CHANGE TEXT ON WINDOWS XP START BUTTON
This is a simple Easy to do Introduction on how to change your start button text,image, and hover text. This is a fun way to Spruce up your computer to your special touch!
STEP 1
First of all, make sure you download Resource Hacker. You'll need this software to edit resources inside your Windows shell.
STEP 2
Locate explorer.exe in your c:\Windows directory. Make a copy of the file in the same directory and rename it explorer.bak.
STEP 3
Now launch Resource Hacker. In the File menu, open explorer.exe. You'll now see a bunch of collapsed folders.
STEP 4
Expand the String Table folder and then find folder No. 37 (folder No. 38 if you're in Windows Classic mode).
STEP 5
Click on resource 1033 and locate the text that says "Start." This is your Start button, and now you've got control over what it says! Change the "Start" text to your text of choice. You don't have a character limit, but the text takes up valuable taskbar space, so don't make it too long.
STEP 6
Click on the button labeled Compile Script. This updates the settings for your Start button. But nothing will happen until you complete through step #20, so keep going!
STEP 7
CHANGE YOUR HOVER TEXT
STEP 8
While you're here, why not also change the text that pops up when your mouse hovers over your Start button?
STEP 9
Right now it says "Click here to begin." Well, duh! We already know that's where to begin!
STEP 10
Open folder No. 34 and click on resource 1033.
STEP 11
Find the text that says "Click here to begin" and change it to something cooler.
STEP 12
Click on the Compile Script button to update this resource.
STEP 13
CUSTOMIZE YOUR START ICON
STEP 14
For an added bonus, you can also change the Windows icon to the left of the text, too.
STEP 15
Collapse the String Table folder and expand the Bitmap folder at the top of your folder list.
STEP 16
Click on folder No. 143 and click on resource 1033. You should see that familiar Windows icon.
STEP 17
Go to the Action Menu and select "Replace bitmap." Select "Open file with new bitmap", and locate the replacement image on your machine. Note: The image must have a .bmp extension and a size of 30 pixels by 30 pixels. Then click the Replace button.
STEP 18
Now that you've made your changes, save the file in your Windows folder with another name, such as explorer2.exe. Don't name it Explorer.exe, because that file is already being used by your system. Close all open programs and restart your system.
STEP 19
Boot into Safe Mode With Command Prompt by pressing F8 on startup. Then choose Safe Mode in the command prompt.
STEP 20
Log on as administrator and enter your password.
STEP 21
When the command prompt comes up, make sure you're in the right directory by typing "cd c:\windows" (without the quotes).
STEP 22
Now type "copy c:\windows\explorer2.exe c:\windows\explorer.exe" (no quotes). Type "yes" (no quotes) to overwrite the existing file, then restart your system by typing "shutdown -r" (no quotes).
STEP 23
When Windows relaunches, you'll see your new Start button in all its glory!
STEP 24
An easier way to enable the new settings is to open task manager and end all instances of "explorer.exe" then click "save" in the Resource Hacker menu. At this point you might see a "Windows File Protection" popup. this is just telling you that the file was modified (which it was, by you)just click "cancel" then "ok". the final step is to open up task manager then click on "new task" then enter "c:\windows\explorer2.exe" (all without quotes) and you should see your changes.
Advanced Replacement
Alternativley you could change the default shell that loads at windows startup within the registry.
Using the run dialogue open Command Prompt and enter:
REG ADD "HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon" /v Shell /t REG_SZ /d ^%systemroot^%\explorer2.exe /f
Tips
•Be sure when you are ready to save your new start button to the windows folder in (step 16) that you name it "explorer2.exe" - (without the quotes) as this will be a lot easier to remember and won't require remembering - but write it down on the printed paper of this page if you can't remember it.
Warnings
•Don't forget. You are playing with System Critical files here. So backup important data first in case something goes wrong
•MAKE A COPY OF EXPLORER BEFORE YOU DO THIS! After overwriting the file and have no backup, it's hard to get it back.
•Editing the Registry can have hazardous effects on your computer.
Things You'll Need
•Resource Hacker (to edit system kernel files and edit resources within the system shell)
•Approximately 10 minutes of your time
STEP 1
First of all, make sure you download Resource Hacker. You'll need this software to edit resources inside your Windows shell.
STEP 2
Locate explorer.exe in your c:\Windows directory. Make a copy of the file in the same directory and rename it explorer.bak.
STEP 3
Now launch Resource Hacker. In the File menu, open explorer.exe. You'll now see a bunch of collapsed folders.
STEP 4
Expand the String Table folder and then find folder No. 37 (folder No. 38 if you're in Windows Classic mode).
STEP 5
Click on resource 1033 and locate the text that says "Start." This is your Start button, and now you've got control over what it says! Change the "Start" text to your text of choice. You don't have a character limit, but the text takes up valuable taskbar space, so don't make it too long.
STEP 6
Click on the button labeled Compile Script. This updates the settings for your Start button. But nothing will happen until you complete through step #20, so keep going!
STEP 7
CHANGE YOUR HOVER TEXT
STEP 8
While you're here, why not also change the text that pops up when your mouse hovers over your Start button?
STEP 9
Right now it says "Click here to begin." Well, duh! We already know that's where to begin!
STEP 10
Open folder No. 34 and click on resource 1033.
STEP 11
Find the text that says "Click here to begin" and change it to something cooler.
STEP 12
Click on the Compile Script button to update this resource.
STEP 13
CUSTOMIZE YOUR START ICON
STEP 14
For an added bonus, you can also change the Windows icon to the left of the text, too.
STEP 15
Collapse the String Table folder and expand the Bitmap folder at the top of your folder list.
STEP 16
Click on folder No. 143 and click on resource 1033. You should see that familiar Windows icon.
STEP 17
Go to the Action Menu and select "Replace bitmap." Select "Open file with new bitmap", and locate the replacement image on your machine. Note: The image must have a .bmp extension and a size of 30 pixels by 30 pixels. Then click the Replace button.
STEP 18
Now that you've made your changes, save the file in your Windows folder with another name, such as explorer2.exe. Don't name it Explorer.exe, because that file is already being used by your system. Close all open programs and restart your system.
STEP 19
Boot into Safe Mode With Command Prompt by pressing F8 on startup. Then choose Safe Mode in the command prompt.
STEP 20
Log on as administrator and enter your password.
STEP 21
When the command prompt comes up, make sure you're in the right directory by typing "cd c:\windows" (without the quotes).
STEP 22
Now type "copy c:\windows\explorer2.exe c:\windows\explorer.exe" (no quotes). Type "yes" (no quotes) to overwrite the existing file, then restart your system by typing "shutdown -r" (no quotes).
STEP 23
When Windows relaunches, you'll see your new Start button in all its glory!
STEP 24
An easier way to enable the new settings is to open task manager and end all instances of "explorer.exe" then click "save" in the Resource Hacker menu. At this point you might see a "Windows File Protection" popup. this is just telling you that the file was modified (which it was, by you)just click "cancel" then "ok". the final step is to open up task manager then click on "new task" then enter "c:\windows\explorer2.exe" (all without quotes) and you should see your changes.
Advanced Replacement
Alternativley you could change the default shell that loads at windows startup within the registry.
Using the run dialogue open Command Prompt and enter:
REG ADD "HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon" /v Shell /t REG_SZ /d ^%systemroot^%\explorer2.exe /f
Tips
•Be sure when you are ready to save your new start button to the windows folder in (step 16) that you name it "explorer2.exe" - (without the quotes) as this will be a lot easier to remember and won't require remembering - but write it down on the printed paper of this page if you can't remember it.
Warnings
•Don't forget. You are playing with System Critical files here. So backup important data first in case something goes wrong
•MAKE A COPY OF EXPLORER BEFORE YOU DO THIS! After overwriting the file and have no backup, it's hard to get it back.
•Editing the Registry can have hazardous effects on your computer.
Things You'll Need
•Resource Hacker (to edit system kernel files and edit resources within the system shell)
•Approximately 10 minutes of your time
Saturday, 29 August 2009
BYPASSING THE YOUR-FREEDOM SERVER FROM DISCONNECTING YOU AFTER EXCEEDING YOUR DAILY LIMIT.
You’ll agree with me that it’s very annoying to see these windows below
And statements like ‘Your account’s profile limits your connection time.Our records indicates that you have exceeded this limit. You will be ppermitted to login again at xxxxxxxxxxx AM on Aug, 20XX.
If u’ve seen such messages you don’t have to panick the solution is right here. All you have to do is to sit back and follow the following steps.
1.) Start the Your-freedom by double clicking the Your-freedom icon on your desktop/Start-All Programs-Your-freedom.
2.) Once the application opens, click on the ‘Messages’ tab.
3.) Copy what is highlihted on the diagram below
i.e something like this..
C: \Users\Obinna\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows
Note: don’t copy the ‘ .ems.cfg’ part.
4.) For XP users, click Start-Run, then type in what you have copied e.g
‘C: \Users\Obinna\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows’ into the Run prompt, then press enter.
5.) In the new window that will open, delete the file ‘.ems.cfg’.
Note: Make sure the ‘Your-Freedom’ software is not running while you’re doing this.
6.) After you have deleted the file open the ‘Your-Freedom’ software, You’ll find out that all the settings are gone.
7.) All you have to do now is to re-configure the ‘Your-Freedom’ and continue your-free browsing.
And statements like ‘Your account’s profile limits your connection time.Our records indicates that you have exceeded this limit. You will be ppermitted to login again at xxxxxxxxxxx AM on Aug, 20XX.
If u’ve seen such messages you don’t have to panick the solution is right here. All you have to do is to sit back and follow the following steps.
1.) Start the Your-freedom by double clicking the Your-freedom icon on your desktop/Start-All Programs-Your-freedom.
2.) Once the application opens, click on the ‘Messages’ tab.
3.) Copy what is highlihted on the diagram below
i.e something like this..
C: \Users\Obinna\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows
Note: don’t copy the ‘ .ems.cfg’ part.
4.) For XP users, click Start-Run, then type in what you have copied e.g
‘C: \Users\Obinna\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows’ into the Run prompt, then press enter.
5.) In the new window that will open, delete the file ‘.ems.cfg’.
Note: Make sure the ‘Your-Freedom’ software is not running while you’re doing this.
6.) After you have deleted the file open the ‘Your-Freedom’ software, You’ll find out that all the settings are gone.
7.) All you have to do now is to re-configure the ‘Your-Freedom’ and continue your-free browsing.
Friday, 28 August 2009
How to Remove a Virus
If you suspect you have a virus (or any other malware), you should take steps immediately. The following procedures work for most viruses or malware (except perhaps for completely new, unknown or unusually malignant strains). It is better to complete all steps, so you can be (reasonably) sure that all traces have been removed.
Signs to look out for (infections may cause one or several of the following):
•Slow computer, and/or slow internet connection.
•Strange pop-ups or web browser redirections (beyond those expected from dodgy websites).
•Program failure, or inexplicable errors (even after a fresh install).
•System functions unavailable (eg: Control Panel, Task Manager, Internet Explorer).
•System giving a "RPC error", giving a window with a 30 second countdown to a restart.
•Excessive internet cap usage, i.e high internet traffic on your computer.
Steps
1.Confirmation and Preliminary Action:
◦Make a list of ways your computer is showing signs of abnormal operation. Satisfy yourself that these signs are not due to hardware failure or problems with attached equipment. Sometimes people misdiagnose software problems (such as bugs in Outlook Express or printer drivers) as virus activity. Also, problems with the Registry can be a source of errors, this happens if you install and uninstall lots of programs.
◦Run your virus-scanner, but beware, many modern viruses can circumvent (or hide from) common anti-virus programs. Norton Antivirus and Mcafee have both been seen to exhibit this weakness, or seem unable to remove certain strains.
2.Check access to System Restore & the Internet.
1.Check computer for system access - Try to disable System Restore - right-click My Computer and select properties. Turn off System Restore on all drives.
2.Download and install new Anti-Virus. Both AVG Free Edition and Avast! are highly acclaimed programs. Install one of them (see External Links). Update the program's virus definitions. Don't scan for viruses yet.
3.Install Spybot Search & Destroy or Webroot Spysweeper (see External Links), and update its definitions. Don't scan for malware yet.
4.Install Adaware Personal Edition (see External Links) and update its definitions. Don't scan for malware yet.
3.Reboot into Safe Mode - Restart your computer and press F8 before Windows loads. Press F8 several times if you need to. Select Safe Mode from the resulting menu. Safe Mode disables much of the startup routine (including some common Malware hiding places).
4.Run your Anti-Virus - Run the freshly installed Anti-Virus. And Heal or Delete any references to Malware.
5.Run your Malware Scanners - Run both the scanners sequentially, deleting any references found.
6.Reboot and turn System Restore back on.
7.Enjoy your sanitised computer.
Tips
•If these steps are difficult to follow or impossible to achieve, please call a computer service professional (such as the one who wrote this HowTo!).
•Disabling System Restore and booting in Safe Mode are especially important if the malware is difficult to remove normally.
•Should you follow these steps and there is still signs of infection. You can take the following advanced steps:
1.Create a boot disk (see External Links).
2.Add scanning tools to the boot disk (see External Links).
3.Boot and scan using the boot disk.
•If all else fails:
1.Connect a USB hard drive to your computer
2.Save onto it your important files, such as documents, emails and favorites.
3.Use your Install disc to format your hard drive and reinstall your operating system.
4.Discover which virus strain it is, this usually is indicated by the anti-virus. Do a search on a reliable search engine like google, for the "virus name", with "removal" followed after it. The specific virus removal tool can be downloaded for free, and used it with ease. Restart the computer, and boot into "safe mode". Run the removal tool in "safe mode", remembering to follow any given instructions to the letters. Note these instructions are on the site where the tool was downloaded from.
•If this cannot help to get rid of the virus from your computer, the last thing you can do is to contact the computer manufacturer or reinstall the system either yourself or an expert.
Warnings
•It is always safer to call on a computer expert to perform procedures that you are not sure about. There is always a chance that you could disable your system and lose valuable data.
•Removing Viruses and Malware often takes several hours. Be sure you have plenty of time available.
Signs to look out for (infections may cause one or several of the following):
•Slow computer, and/or slow internet connection.
•Strange pop-ups or web browser redirections (beyond those expected from dodgy websites).
•Program failure, or inexplicable errors (even after a fresh install).
•System functions unavailable (eg: Control Panel, Task Manager, Internet Explorer).
•System giving a "RPC error", giving a window with a 30 second countdown to a restart.
•Excessive internet cap usage, i.e high internet traffic on your computer.
Steps
1.Confirmation and Preliminary Action:
◦Make a list of ways your computer is showing signs of abnormal operation. Satisfy yourself that these signs are not due to hardware failure or problems with attached equipment. Sometimes people misdiagnose software problems (such as bugs in Outlook Express or printer drivers) as virus activity. Also, problems with the Registry can be a source of errors, this happens if you install and uninstall lots of programs.
◦Run your virus-scanner, but beware, many modern viruses can circumvent (or hide from) common anti-virus programs. Norton Antivirus and Mcafee have both been seen to exhibit this weakness, or seem unable to remove certain strains.
2.Check access to System Restore & the Internet.
1.Check computer for system access - Try to disable System Restore - right-click My Computer and select properties. Turn off System Restore on all drives.
2.Download and install new Anti-Virus. Both AVG Free Edition and Avast! are highly acclaimed programs. Install one of them (see External Links). Update the program's virus definitions. Don't scan for viruses yet.
3.Install Spybot Search & Destroy or Webroot Spysweeper (see External Links), and update its definitions. Don't scan for malware yet.
4.Install Adaware Personal Edition (see External Links) and update its definitions. Don't scan for malware yet.
3.Reboot into Safe Mode - Restart your computer and press F8 before Windows loads. Press F8 several times if you need to. Select Safe Mode from the resulting menu. Safe Mode disables much of the startup routine (including some common Malware hiding places).
4.Run your Anti-Virus - Run the freshly installed Anti-Virus. And Heal or Delete any references to Malware.
5.Run your Malware Scanners - Run both the scanners sequentially, deleting any references found.
6.Reboot and turn System Restore back on.
7.Enjoy your sanitised computer.
Tips
•If these steps are difficult to follow or impossible to achieve, please call a computer service professional (such as the one who wrote this HowTo!).
•Disabling System Restore and booting in Safe Mode are especially important if the malware is difficult to remove normally.
•Should you follow these steps and there is still signs of infection. You can take the following advanced steps:
1.Create a boot disk (see External Links).
2.Add scanning tools to the boot disk (see External Links).
3.Boot and scan using the boot disk.
•If all else fails:
1.Connect a USB hard drive to your computer
2.Save onto it your important files, such as documents, emails and favorites.
3.Use your Install disc to format your hard drive and reinstall your operating system.
4.Discover which virus strain it is, this usually is indicated by the anti-virus. Do a search on a reliable search engine like google, for the "virus name", with "removal" followed after it. The specific virus removal tool can be downloaded for free, and used it with ease. Restart the computer, and boot into "safe mode". Run the removal tool in "safe mode", remembering to follow any given instructions to the letters. Note these instructions are on the site where the tool was downloaded from.
•If this cannot help to get rid of the virus from your computer, the last thing you can do is to contact the computer manufacturer or reinstall the system either yourself or an expert.
Warnings
•It is always safer to call on a computer expert to perform procedures that you are not sure about. There is always a chance that you could disable your system and lose valuable data.
•Removing Viruses and Malware often takes several hours. Be sure you have plenty of time available.
How to Prevent Viruses, Spyware, and Adware with Avast and CounterSpy
Would you like a set of two programs that, once installed, will prevent all malicious software from infecting your machine without having to do scans in safe mode?
Steps
1.Get the software from the websites provided in the section 'Things You'll Need'.
2.On each website, there are instructions on how to obtain the product keys for each program. Avast! 4 Home is free for personal home use, and CounterSpy is $19.99. Once you have the product keys, install each program.
3.To enter the key for Avast, right-click on the system tray icon (blue sphere with the letter a) and choose About avast..., then click on License Key. This will enable you to enter in the key emailed to you. Avast is now good for 14 months.
4.For CounterSpy, double-click the icon on your desktop, and the setup wizard will launch. During this time, it will request the product key, as well as to set up some initial preferences. Once the wizard has finished, run CounterSpy to perform a scan. You want to go ahead and remove all that it finds.
5.Both programs run in the background. This is evident from the Avast icon spinning around a lot, and CounterSpy popping up messages about malware trying to install itself. However, regular scanning is also necessary.
6.Both programs also automatically update their own definition files, and can also update manually.
7.A particularly useful component of the Avast program is it's VRDB, or virus recovery database. It is set to perform only when running the screensaver, so right-click the Avast icon, click VRDB, then click Generate VRDB only when computer is idle. This will create backups of your system files so that in the event something gets past Avast, it can restore that file without you having to reinstall your OS. Avast is the only anti-virus software that performs this way.
Tips
•Remember to implement firewalls into your security arsenal. Software firewalls aren't as good as hardware ones, but something's better than nothing.
•Remember to check your programs often, and make sure they are scanning when they are scheduled to.
•Remember to do away with Internet Explorer, and switch to Firefox, or Opera, or something other than IE.
•Make sure you do all your windows updates, most windows updates have cumulative or critical security updates in them and this can plug holes in your operating system for you.
•On a pop-up, never close the window with a link inside the pop-up, instead close the pop-up with the red 'X' in the top corner. Closing the pop-up with the link can download spywares or adwares.
Warnings
•Check that System Restore still creates valid restore points after installing Avast! 4 Home. This may fail to work properly.
Things You'll Need
•Avast anti-virus: http://www.avast.com/eng/down_home.html
•CounterSpy: http://www.sunbelt-software.com/CounterSpy.cfm
•Alternative browser: http://www.mozilla.org/products/firefox/
Steps
1.Get the software from the websites provided in the section 'Things You'll Need'.
2.On each website, there are instructions on how to obtain the product keys for each program. Avast! 4 Home is free for personal home use, and CounterSpy is $19.99. Once you have the product keys, install each program.
3.To enter the key for Avast, right-click on the system tray icon (blue sphere with the letter a) and choose About avast..., then click on License Key. This will enable you to enter in the key emailed to you. Avast is now good for 14 months.
4.For CounterSpy, double-click the icon on your desktop, and the setup wizard will launch. During this time, it will request the product key, as well as to set up some initial preferences. Once the wizard has finished, run CounterSpy to perform a scan. You want to go ahead and remove all that it finds.
5.Both programs run in the background. This is evident from the Avast icon spinning around a lot, and CounterSpy popping up messages about malware trying to install itself. However, regular scanning is also necessary.
6.Both programs also automatically update their own definition files, and can also update manually.
7.A particularly useful component of the Avast program is it's VRDB, or virus recovery database. It is set to perform only when running the screensaver, so right-click the Avast icon, click VRDB, then click Generate VRDB only when computer is idle. This will create backups of your system files so that in the event something gets past Avast, it can restore that file without you having to reinstall your OS. Avast is the only anti-virus software that performs this way.
Tips
•Remember to implement firewalls into your security arsenal. Software firewalls aren't as good as hardware ones, but something's better than nothing.
•Remember to check your programs often, and make sure they are scanning when they are scheduled to.
•Remember to do away with Internet Explorer, and switch to Firefox, or Opera, or something other than IE.
•Make sure you do all your windows updates, most windows updates have cumulative or critical security updates in them and this can plug holes in your operating system for you.
•On a pop-up, never close the window with a link inside the pop-up, instead close the pop-up with the red 'X' in the top corner. Closing the pop-up with the link can download spywares or adwares.
Warnings
•Check that System Restore still creates valid restore points after installing Avast! 4 Home. This may fail to work properly.
Things You'll Need
•Avast anti-virus: http://www.avast.com/eng/down_home.html
•CounterSpy: http://www.sunbelt-software.com/CounterSpy.cfm
•Alternative browser: http://www.mozilla.org/products/firefox/
How to Log on to Windows XP if You Forget Your Password
Here is a simple way to access Windows XP with Administrator rights and privileges if you have password protected your User account on your Windows XP system and can't remember the password(s) to login. Whenever Windows XP is installed on a system, it creates a default account called "Administrator" and by default this account is not password protected. Therefore, if you bought a brand name computer (such as Dell, HP, Compaq or Sony)or you have installed Windows XP yourself. You should be able to login to the computer through the unprotected Administrator account.
Steps
1.Reboot your machine.
2.Press F8 before the Windows boot screen appears.
◦Do not press F5 as used on the NT/9x series of Windows.
3.You will be be prompted with a boot options menu.
4.Select the Start Windows in Safe Mode option.
5.Click through several self-explanatory screens until your reach the familiar 'Welcome' screen.
6.Note that this welcome screen is limited to 256 colors and 640x480 resolution because the primary graphics will have been set to the Windows Safe Mode software VGA adapter. You will not be able to change this mode even in Display options, while Windows is running in Safe Mode.
7.Find the icon for the Administrator user. If the default settings of your system haven't been changed, there should be no password for this account.
◦The Safe Mode Welcome screen might display some of the other users on your system.
8.Login as the admin.
9.Press Yes at the prompt asking if you would like to continue using Safe Mode.
10.Continue on to the User Settings control panel. Here you can change any of the other passwords for user on the machine. Make any changes you want.
11.Reboot your computer. As long as you don't press any keys (i.e. F8) during the boot-up the computer will startup normally.
12.Login as the user for which you set the password.
Tips
•You can access the Administrator account through the login prompt without logging into safe mode. If the computer utilizes the welcome screen instead of the standard NT domain login prompt, you can press Ctrl + Alt + Del twice to get to the login prompt. This is only true if you are running Windows XP Professional Edition. Windows XP Home Edition will also allow you to use this method to log on.
•Some users are smart enough to password protect their Administrator account when they install windows. If that's the case, you'll have to know that password in order for this method to work.
•There is a way to crack the windows "SAM" and system files to retrieve the original passwords Monitor, you need a program such as LC5 installed on a computer, and the SAM file in C:\WINDOWS\system32\config if LC5 is not installed on the computer that you forgot disk because as soon as you can get into the hard drive, windows is using the file so you cant copy it.
•Use SysInternals ERD Commandor to change the admin. password. Boot from the CD and select the locksmith option to change whatever password you like. Alas, this product seems to have been discontinued, however there are many other options out there for resetting the password so long as you are willing to spend a little money.
•Much simpler is simply to rename or delete the SAM file (renaming is safer). For this you need to boot the box using some other operating system on a CD and then mount the drive (otherwise Windows locks the SAM file and won't let you touch it). NTFSDOS is also a good utility for this purpose. Find the SAM file and change the first character. After you reboot, all the accounts are still there, but they all have null passwords. Note: if you rename the SAM file on XP SP2, when you reboot, XP fails to initialize and forces you to reboot in safe mode. However when you boot into safe mode you get the same message, so don't try this method on XP SP2.
Warnings
•This method may or may not work with machines running XP SP2, you will need to use "safe mode with networking" instead.
•Use these instructions for ethical purposes only, please. Accessing Windows Administrator and changing passwords could be construed as illegal entry and electronic trespass in a court of law.
•This whole process is pointless if you know the administrator's password as you can easily remove passwords without going into safe mode. Assuming that your PC only has one user profile with administrative powers.
Steps
1.Reboot your machine.
2.Press F8 before the Windows boot screen appears.
◦Do not press F5 as used on the NT/9x series of Windows.
3.You will be be prompted with a boot options menu.
4.Select the Start Windows in Safe Mode option.
5.Click through several self-explanatory screens until your reach the familiar 'Welcome' screen.
6.Note that this welcome screen is limited to 256 colors and 640x480 resolution because the primary graphics will have been set to the Windows Safe Mode software VGA adapter. You will not be able to change this mode even in Display options, while Windows is running in Safe Mode.
7.Find the icon for the Administrator user. If the default settings of your system haven't been changed, there should be no password for this account.
◦The Safe Mode Welcome screen might display some of the other users on your system.
8.Login as the admin.
9.Press Yes at the prompt asking if you would like to continue using Safe Mode.
10.Continue on to the User Settings control panel. Here you can change any of the other passwords for user on the machine. Make any changes you want.
11.Reboot your computer. As long as you don't press any keys (i.e. F8) during the boot-up the computer will startup normally.
12.Login as the user for which you set the password.
Tips
•You can access the Administrator account through the login prompt without logging into safe mode. If the computer utilizes the welcome screen instead of the standard NT domain login prompt, you can press Ctrl + Alt + Del twice to get to the login prompt. This is only true if you are running Windows XP Professional Edition. Windows XP Home Edition will also allow you to use this method to log on.
•Some users are smart enough to password protect their Administrator account when they install windows. If that's the case, you'll have to know that password in order for this method to work.
•There is a way to crack the windows "SAM" and system files to retrieve the original passwords Monitor, you need a program such as LC5 installed on a computer, and the SAM file in C:\WINDOWS\system32\config if LC5 is not installed on the computer that you forgot disk because as soon as you can get into the hard drive, windows is using the file so you cant copy it.
•Use SysInternals ERD Commandor to change the admin. password. Boot from the CD and select the locksmith option to change whatever password you like. Alas, this product seems to have been discontinued, however there are many other options out there for resetting the password so long as you are willing to spend a little money.
•Much simpler is simply to rename or delete the SAM file (renaming is safer). For this you need to boot the box using some other operating system on a CD and then mount the drive (otherwise Windows locks the SAM file and won't let you touch it). NTFSDOS is also a good utility for this purpose. Find the SAM file and change the first character. After you reboot, all the accounts are still there, but they all have null passwords. Note: if you rename the SAM file on XP SP2, when you reboot, XP fails to initialize and forces you to reboot in safe mode. However when you boot into safe mode you get the same message, so don't try this method on XP SP2.
Warnings
•This method may or may not work with machines running XP SP2, you will need to use "safe mode with networking" instead.
•Use these instructions for ethical purposes only, please. Accessing Windows Administrator and changing passwords could be construed as illegal entry and electronic trespass in a court of law.
•This whole process is pointless if you know the administrator's password as you can easily remove passwords without going into safe mode. Assuming that your PC only has one user profile with administrative powers.
How to Hack or Break Into a Windows XP Computer Without Changing Password
Ever forgotten a windows xp password? Well, now you can have the assurance of being able to access an account and reset the password without previously knowing the password. This works for any account with a windows xp computer that's not booted off a network.
Steps
1.Get physical access to the machine. Remember that it must have a CD or DVD drive.
2.Go to http://ebcd.pcministry.com/ and download the disc ISO in the pro version.
3.Download the file and then burn the ISO onto a blank disc using an ISO writer or CD burner such as nero or UltraISO. This creates the EBCD bootable disc. This also has many other tools. You may do this on the target machine or on another machine.
4.After you have the disk, enter the bios of the target machine and make sure that the first boot drive is the CD or DVD ROM. Chances are it already is.
5.Boot from the disk. It should automatically load the main screen, but if it asks you to press any key to boot from the CD, do so.
6.After it has booted, choose option number 5, the password recovery. This will guide you through a set of steps and instructions, and if you don't know otherwise, just press enter and it will use the default options, which will work just fine.
7.When you get to the list of users, choose the user whose password needs to be reset. Follow the instructions that the program gives you, such as type in the user name, and put the password in as the * key to just blank the password. This is much more successful than changing the password through this program.
8.Once this is done, make sure that you write the changes to the hive and SAM files (an option the program will ask you about upon exiting).
9.Reboot the computer and take the cd out before the computer boots from it again.
10.Log in as that user (it will have no password if you just blanked it).
11.You can now create a password for that user.
Tips
•Alternatively, if you already know the password to one account, you can change another local password through the Command Prompt. To do this go to "Start > Run" and type in "cmd" (without quotations) and press enter. When the screen appears, type (again without quotations) "net user username *" and press enter, replacing "username" with the actual username of the account you wish to reset the password for. It will ask you to enter a new password, enter the password and press enter. You will then be required to confirm this password. Do so. Then type "exit" and press enter. Job done. (This will not work if the account you know the password to doesn't have permission to change the password of another account)
•This CD has many other useful tools that can be used if your computer crashes, so it is a worthy investment.
Warnings
•Doing this on another computer without permission is illegal, so use this disc at your discretion. It is intended for servicemen and home users to fix a computer (or your own computer) when requested to do so by the owner of that computer.
Steps
1.Get physical access to the machine. Remember that it must have a CD or DVD drive.
2.Go to http://ebcd.pcministry.com/ and download the disc ISO in the pro version.
3.Download the file and then burn the ISO onto a blank disc using an ISO writer or CD burner such as nero or UltraISO. This creates the EBCD bootable disc. This also has many other tools. You may do this on the target machine or on another machine.
4.After you have the disk, enter the bios of the target machine and make sure that the first boot drive is the CD or DVD ROM. Chances are it already is.
5.Boot from the disk. It should automatically load the main screen, but if it asks you to press any key to boot from the CD, do so.
6.After it has booted, choose option number 5, the password recovery. This will guide you through a set of steps and instructions, and if you don't know otherwise, just press enter and it will use the default options, which will work just fine.
7.When you get to the list of users, choose the user whose password needs to be reset. Follow the instructions that the program gives you, such as type in the user name, and put the password in as the * key to just blank the password. This is much more successful than changing the password through this program.
8.Once this is done, make sure that you write the changes to the hive and SAM files (an option the program will ask you about upon exiting).
9.Reboot the computer and take the cd out before the computer boots from it again.
10.Log in as that user (it will have no password if you just blanked it).
11.You can now create a password for that user.
Tips
•Alternatively, if you already know the password to one account, you can change another local password through the Command Prompt. To do this go to "Start > Run" and type in "cmd" (without quotations) and press enter. When the screen appears, type (again without quotations) "net user username *" and press enter, replacing "username" with the actual username of the account you wish to reset the password for. It will ask you to enter a new password, enter the password and press enter. You will then be required to confirm this password. Do so. Then type "exit" and press enter. Job done. (This will not work if the account you know the password to doesn't have permission to change the password of another account)
•This CD has many other useful tools that can be used if your computer crashes, so it is a worthy investment.
Warnings
•Doing this on another computer without permission is illegal, so use this disc at your discretion. It is intended for servicemen and home users to fix a computer (or your own computer) when requested to do so by the owner of that computer.
How to Disable/Enable the Windows XP Welcome Screen
This article allows you to Enable or Disable that classical Windows XP Welcome Screen which welcomes the user with a sky-blue coloured screen, and a number of images, with the respective User Accounts.
Steps
1.Click on Start.
2.Click on Control Panel.
3.Double-click on User Accounts.
4.Click on "Change the way users log on or off".
5.Uncheck "Use the Welcome Screen".
6.Click on Apply Options.
7.Close the User Accounts window and the Control Panel.
8.The next time you reboot your computer, the classic login prompt will be used.
Things You'll Need
•Microsoft Windows XP
Steps
1.Click on Start.
2.Click on Control Panel.
3.Double-click on User Accounts.
4.Click on "Change the way users log on or off".
5.Uncheck "Use the Welcome Screen".
6.Click on Apply Options.
7.Close the User Accounts window and the Control Panel.
8.The next time you reboot your computer, the classic login prompt will be used.
Things You'll Need
•Microsoft Windows XP
Thursday, 27 August 2009
How to Change a Windows XP Product Key
This article describes how to change the Windows XP product key after a Volume Licensing installation. You can use the Windows Activation Wizard graphical user interface (GUI) or a Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) script. The Activation Wizard method is easier, but if you must change the product key for multiple computers, the script method is better.
1.Click start in the bottom left corner, then click run.
2.Type 'Regedit' in the white text field, and click OK. This should open the Registry Editor.
3.Navigate to the following registry key.
◦Hkey_local_machine\Software\Microsoft\WindowsNT\Current Version\WPAEvents
4.Right click 'OOBETimer', in that registry key that you just navigated to and then click 'Modify'.
5.Change one or more digits to anything random.
6.Click start and then click run.
7.Paste '%systemroot%\system32\oobe\msoobe.exe /a', in the white text field,.
8.Select 'Yes, I want to telephone a customer service representative to activate Windows', then click next.
9.Click Change Product key.
10.Type the new product key into the small white text fields and then click update.
11.Check that you get a message similar to 'You have successfully activated your copy of Windows.', if you do, restart your computer, and you're done!
Tips
•To navigate in the registry, click the small '+' buttons left of the words.
•Buy a genuine product key if yours is not genuine.
•Alternatively rely on the support and specific tools from a 3rd party company that complies with Microsoft policy. Here we can mention MoonValleySoft.com .
Warnings
•This will not work when the installation source and the product key are representative of varying licenses. For example, if the installation CD is a retail license, but the product key is for an OEM license.
•Do not use any product keys that you find on any websites, these could cause you to fail the windows genuine advantage test as those keys are probable already one Microsoft's product key blacklists. Failing this test loses your operating systems genuineness, restricts updates and displays annoying messages to buy a real product key.
•Editing the registry (or any system file) is like surgery: BE CAREFUL! Don't edit anything except what this article tells you to when you open, 'Regedit'. Doing so can cause system instability, changes in functionality, or worse, be unable to use Windows altogether.
•Never tell anybody your product key.
1.Click start in the bottom left corner, then click run.
2.Type 'Regedit' in the white text field, and click OK. This should open the Registry Editor.
3.Navigate to the following registry key.
◦Hkey_local_machine\Software\Microsoft\WindowsNT\Current Version\WPAEvents
4.Right click 'OOBETimer', in that registry key that you just navigated to and then click 'Modify'.
5.Change one or more digits to anything random.
6.Click start and then click run.
7.Paste '%systemroot%\system32\oobe\msoobe.exe /a', in the white text field,.
8.Select 'Yes, I want to telephone a customer service representative to activate Windows', then click next.
9.Click Change Product key.
10.Type the new product key into the small white text fields and then click update.
11.Check that you get a message similar to 'You have successfully activated your copy of Windows.', if you do, restart your computer, and you're done!
Tips
•To navigate in the registry, click the small '+' buttons left of the words.
•Buy a genuine product key if yours is not genuine.
•Alternatively rely on the support and specific tools from a 3rd party company that complies with Microsoft policy. Here we can mention MoonValleySoft.com .
Warnings
•This will not work when the installation source and the product key are representative of varying licenses. For example, if the installation CD is a retail license, but the product key is for an OEM license.
•Do not use any product keys that you find on any websites, these could cause you to fail the windows genuine advantage test as those keys are probable already one Microsoft's product key blacklists. Failing this test loses your operating systems genuineness, restricts updates and displays annoying messages to buy a real product key.
•Editing the registry (or any system file) is like surgery: BE CAREFUL! Don't edit anything except what this article tells you to when you open, 'Regedit'. Doing so can cause system instability, changes in functionality, or worse, be unable to use Windows altogether.
•Never tell anybody your product key.
How to Change a Windows XP NT 2000 Password Without Knowing the Original Password
Here are instructions for changing the Windows XP/NT/2k password, Administrator or any other user, without knowing the original password.
Steps
Method 1
1.Get the Offline NT Password & Registry Editor boot CD
2.Burn the .iso to a CD
3.Restart the computer and boot to the CD (if it does not already boot to CD then you need to change the boot order in the BIOS or use a boot menu)
4.Follow the instructions on screen
Method 2
1.Make sure that the computer is shut down.
2.Start the computer.
3.Continuously press 'F8' until a new screen shows up
4.Select anything that has the words "command prompt" or "DOS" in it. Do not use safe mode unless every choice that says "command prompt" or "DOS" involves starting up safe mode. (See Tips)
5.Type cd\
6.Type cd documents and settings
7.Type dir
8.Choose the username that you'd like to change the password.
9.Type net user (here type the username that you want to change) * Example: net user BOB *
10.Type the new password.
11.Retype the password.
12.Restart the computer normally. You can do this by typing "shutdown -r" (no quotations.) Your new password should be active.
Tips
•If you use safe mode, you'll need to log in to an administrator account. Most people have leave their administrator account on without a password. If it is passworded and there is no other way to get access to the computer, try method 1.
Warnings
•This is illegal to do without the owner's permission.
Steps
Method 1
1.Get the Offline NT Password & Registry Editor boot CD
2.Burn the .iso to a CD
3.Restart the computer and boot to the CD (if it does not already boot to CD then you need to change the boot order in the BIOS or use a boot menu)
4.Follow the instructions on screen
Method 2
1.Make sure that the computer is shut down.
2.Start the computer.
3.Continuously press 'F8' until a new screen shows up
4.Select anything that has the words "command prompt" or "DOS" in it. Do not use safe mode unless every choice that says "command prompt" or "DOS" involves starting up safe mode. (See Tips)
5.Type cd\
6.Type cd documents and settings
7.Type dir
8.Choose the username that you'd like to change the password.
9.Type net user (here type the username that you want to change) * Example: net user BOB *
10.Type the new password.
11.Retype the password.
12.Restart the computer normally. You can do this by typing "shutdown -r" (no quotations.) Your new password should be active.
Tips
•If you use safe mode, you'll need to log in to an administrator account. Most people have leave their administrator account on without a password. If it is passworded and there is no other way to get access to the computer, try method 1.
Warnings
•This is illegal to do without the owner's permission.
How to Avoid Getting a Computer Virus or Worm on Your Windows PC
There are many viruses and worms out there that could infect your computer. Not all of them are going to completely destroy your data, but they are always a hassle to deal with.
Steps
1.Be careful about using MS Outlook. Outlook is more susceptible to worms than other e-mail programs, unless you have efficient Anti-Virus programs running. Use Pegasus or Thunderbird (by Mozilla), or a web-based program such as Hotmail or Yahoo or 'Outlook Express'.
2.Install an Anti-Virus program(ex. Norton, F-Secure, Sophos or McAfee.) Also available is the free AntiVir virus scanner. Make sure you keep your virus definitions updated and run a full system scan weekly.
3.Install an Anti-Spyware program(ex. Adaware SE, Microsoft Defender), that operates against internet malware and spyware. Just like Anti-Virus, keep it updated, and do a full system scan weekly.
4.If someone sends you an attachment in e-mail or instant messaging, do not open it. If it is a picture, text or sound file (these attachments end in the extensions .txt, .jpeg, .gif, .bmp, .tif, .mp3, .htm, .html, and .avi), you are probably safe. If someone you know very well sends you a Word attachment or other type of file, e-mail them to ask them if they meant to send it to you. If they say yes, you can open it, but you might still be at risk if they are not good about running Anti-Virus scans or careful about what they download. Be wary of attachments with a double extension, such as .txt.vb or .jpg.exe, as the system will only recognize the extension to the extreme right, and run the file as such. Double extensions are often a good indicator that the file is malicious.
5.Do not use disks that other people gave you, even from work. The disk could be infected with a virus. Of course, you can run a virus scan on it first to check it out, but AV programs are not 100% effective.
6.Do not download software from just any old website. If it is a reputable site that you trust, you are probably safe. The threat is not only from software; don't download Word documents or other non-HTML files that have something other than one of the extensions listed above, either.
7.Set up your Windows Update to automatically download patches and upgrades. This will allow your computer to automatically download any updates to both the operating system in Internet Explorer. These updates fix security holes in both pieces of software.
8.Consider switching to a different web browser. Other web browsers (such as Firefox or Opera) are considered to have better security than Internet Explorer; some people also see them as more flexible and extensible browsers.
9.Be careful when surfing. You can get a malicious script from a webpage and not know it. If you have your IE set up for the maximum security settings, you are probably safe. You can try disabling javascript, but I'm not sure if this will entirely help, and it will make your web browsing pretty boring. If you ever get a window asking if you want to allow an automatic install, say "No" unless you know the site requesting the install. Also, don't go to any porn sites. Those are almost always viruses.
10.Read about the latest virus threats so you are aware of the potential danger. Go to Symantec's page to read about them daily.
11.Try to balance paranoia with common sense. Some people get really weird about viruses, spyware, etc. It's just a computer! Back up your data and follow these steps, and it shouldn't be a big problem. Some people would suggest that you make sure you have a firewall and run anti-spyware programs as well. I'm not sure either of those will protect you from viruses, but they will protect you from hacking and from spyware. Microsoft's Antispyware and Ad-Aware are the best anti-spyware/virus programs I have found. Good luck!
12.Use a software firewall! Even if you have a hardware firewall, always use a software firewall (ex. Norton, Mcafee, there's also free ones- ZoneLabs ZoneAlarm).
13.Scan things you download! Now don't be a total nut with this. But if you download something from a site that you don't know/trust, then scan it before opening it. Anything you get from P2P software you should scan, as you are getting it from a stranger. Balance scanning things with number 11, don't go nuts scanning everything you download.
14.View the files in a Sandbox.
Tips
•PC World and other computer magazines will help you keep aware of the latest info about viruses and other things going on the Internet.
•http://www.cnet.com CNET is a good place to find current updates on new viruses and security issues.
•You can prevent many bugs(and ads) by blocking many sites using a host file. Like the one found here. This site also explains hosts file.
•Some Anti-Virus/Anti-Spam/Anti-Malware programs are resource intensive and unless you have high system resources can slow your system during the scan process.
•Many websites use ActiveX controls, which means you will have to use either Microsoft's Internet Explorer or install the Mozilla ActiveX plugin for Firefox. Many of these ActiveX controls can be malicious, so make sure you trust the author of the web page before installing any ActiveX controls.
•A good free anti-spyware is Spybot Search&Destroy. This program is better than Adaware SE, the scans bring up things Adaware SE didn't detect and delete them or keep them, depending on what you want to do with the program.
•Use other than Internet Explorer, as most hackers,viruses and spyware try to find computers that do and try to hack them. Try Opera, since it is so little known, nobody tries to hack it. Opera is developed by an European company. Firefox is Open Source and free and developed by Mozilla, fewer malware attacks it, however because it is well known, make sure you install updates because there are a few security holes.
Steps
1.Be careful about using MS Outlook. Outlook is more susceptible to worms than other e-mail programs, unless you have efficient Anti-Virus programs running. Use Pegasus or Thunderbird (by Mozilla), or a web-based program such as Hotmail or Yahoo or 'Outlook Express'.
2.Install an Anti-Virus program(ex. Norton, F-Secure, Sophos or McAfee.) Also available is the free AntiVir virus scanner. Make sure you keep your virus definitions updated and run a full system scan weekly.
3.Install an Anti-Spyware program(ex. Adaware SE, Microsoft Defender), that operates against internet malware and spyware. Just like Anti-Virus, keep it updated, and do a full system scan weekly.
4.If someone sends you an attachment in e-mail or instant messaging, do not open it. If it is a picture, text or sound file (these attachments end in the extensions .txt, .jpeg, .gif, .bmp, .tif, .mp3, .htm, .html, and .avi), you are probably safe. If someone you know very well sends you a Word attachment or other type of file, e-mail them to ask them if they meant to send it to you. If they say yes, you can open it, but you might still be at risk if they are not good about running Anti-Virus scans or careful about what they download. Be wary of attachments with a double extension, such as .txt.vb or .jpg.exe, as the system will only recognize the extension to the extreme right, and run the file as such. Double extensions are often a good indicator that the file is malicious.
5.Do not use disks that other people gave you, even from work. The disk could be infected with a virus. Of course, you can run a virus scan on it first to check it out, but AV programs are not 100% effective.
6.Do not download software from just any old website. If it is a reputable site that you trust, you are probably safe. The threat is not only from software; don't download Word documents or other non-HTML files that have something other than one of the extensions listed above, either.
7.Set up your Windows Update to automatically download patches and upgrades. This will allow your computer to automatically download any updates to both the operating system in Internet Explorer. These updates fix security holes in both pieces of software.
8.Consider switching to a different web browser. Other web browsers (such as Firefox or Opera) are considered to have better security than Internet Explorer; some people also see them as more flexible and extensible browsers.
9.Be careful when surfing. You can get a malicious script from a webpage and not know it. If you have your IE set up for the maximum security settings, you are probably safe. You can try disabling javascript, but I'm not sure if this will entirely help, and it will make your web browsing pretty boring. If you ever get a window asking if you want to allow an automatic install, say "No" unless you know the site requesting the install. Also, don't go to any porn sites. Those are almost always viruses.
10.Read about the latest virus threats so you are aware of the potential danger. Go to Symantec's page to read about them daily.
11.Try to balance paranoia with common sense. Some people get really weird about viruses, spyware, etc. It's just a computer! Back up your data and follow these steps, and it shouldn't be a big problem. Some people would suggest that you make sure you have a firewall and run anti-spyware programs as well. I'm not sure either of those will protect you from viruses, but they will protect you from hacking and from spyware. Microsoft's Antispyware and Ad-Aware are the best anti-spyware/virus programs I have found. Good luck!
12.Use a software firewall! Even if you have a hardware firewall, always use a software firewall (ex. Norton, Mcafee, there's also free ones- ZoneLabs ZoneAlarm).
13.Scan things you download! Now don't be a total nut with this. But if you download something from a site that you don't know/trust, then scan it before opening it. Anything you get from P2P software you should scan, as you are getting it from a stranger. Balance scanning things with number 11, don't go nuts scanning everything you download.
14.View the files in a Sandbox.
Tips
•PC World and other computer magazines will help you keep aware of the latest info about viruses and other things going on the Internet.
•http://www.cnet.com CNET is a good place to find current updates on new viruses and security issues.
•You can prevent many bugs(and ads) by blocking many sites using a host file. Like the one found here. This site also explains hosts file.
•Some Anti-Virus/Anti-Spam/Anti-Malware programs are resource intensive and unless you have high system resources can slow your system during the scan process.
•Many websites use ActiveX controls, which means you will have to use either Microsoft's Internet Explorer or install the Mozilla ActiveX plugin for Firefox. Many of these ActiveX controls can be malicious, so make sure you trust the author of the web page before installing any ActiveX controls.
•A good free anti-spyware is Spybot Search&Destroy. This program is better than Adaware SE, the scans bring up things Adaware SE didn't detect and delete them or keep them, depending on what you want to do with the program.
•Use other than Internet Explorer, as most hackers,viruses and spyware try to find computers that do and try to hack them. Try Opera, since it is so little known, nobody tries to hack it. Opera is developed by an European company. Firefox is Open Source and free and developed by Mozilla, fewer malware attacks it, however because it is well known, make sure you install updates because there are a few security holes.
How to Authenticate Windows
How to Authenticate Windows
You just completely installed a new fresh version of Windows XP into your computer. But somehow when the window that ask you to autheticate or activate windows tell you that your copy of Windows XP is not genuine. The steps below will assist you of what to do.
Steps
1.Ask yourself which type of shop did you go to? Did you go to a shop that sells pirated CDs? The average price of a copy of Windows is normally around US$150. If you bought it at a price cheaper than US$20, please return to the store and ask for a refund. If he does not allow a refund, you are actually being cheated. You need a genuine copy to activate Windows.
2.Check whether you have typed properly. If you went to an authorised store to purchase your copy of Windows, and you found out that the product key is invalid, make sure you have typed correctly.
3.Contact your local Microsoft customer service representative. Normally, the phone number is available when you click on the "Yes, I want to telephone a customer service representative to activate Windows now" button in the window. Choose your country name and a phone number will appear. Tell the representative either of these two things.
◦"I have bought a genuine copy but the product key is invalid." The representative will ask of you several questions in which you will answer.
◦"I have used the same CD to install Windows on the same computer for more than 10 times." If your computer caused you lots of trouble, and you are computer savvy, you will use the CD to re-install Windows. But since you don't know the fact that you are only allowed to do this at most 10 times, you may get stucked when the "Invalid product key" error appeared on your screen. The representative will ask you several questions and you will get a new but longer code in which you will use to validate your copy of Windows.
◦Please be honest, the representative will know if you are lying. They ask questions just to test your integrity.
You just completely installed a new fresh version of Windows XP into your computer. But somehow when the window that ask you to autheticate or activate windows tell you that your copy of Windows XP is not genuine. The steps below will assist you of what to do.
Steps
1.Ask yourself which type of shop did you go to? Did you go to a shop that sells pirated CDs? The average price of a copy of Windows is normally around US$150. If you bought it at a price cheaper than US$20, please return to the store and ask for a refund. If he does not allow a refund, you are actually being cheated. You need a genuine copy to activate Windows.
2.Check whether you have typed properly. If you went to an authorised store to purchase your copy of Windows, and you found out that the product key is invalid, make sure you have typed correctly.
3.Contact your local Microsoft customer service representative. Normally, the phone number is available when you click on the "Yes, I want to telephone a customer service representative to activate Windows now" button in the window. Choose your country name and a phone number will appear. Tell the representative either of these two things.
◦"I have bought a genuine copy but the product key is invalid." The representative will ask of you several questions in which you will answer.
◦"I have used the same CD to install Windows on the same computer for more than 10 times." If your computer caused you lots of trouble, and you are computer savvy, you will use the CD to re-install Windows. But since you don't know the fact that you are only allowed to do this at most 10 times, you may get stucked when the "Invalid product key" error appeared on your screen. The representative will ask you several questions and you will get a new but longer code in which you will use to validate your copy of Windows.
◦Please be honest, the representative will know if you are lying. They ask questions just to test your integrity.
How to Adjust the Color Quality on a Windows XP Computer
Perhaps you are going to play a new computer game and you need to adjust your color quality. Perhaps you want to just try adjusting your settings a little different than normal. Whatever your reasoning, this step-by-step how-to guide will give you instructions on how to adjust the color quality on a Windows XP computer.
Steps
1.
Right click with your mouse anywhere on the computer desktop.
2.
Select the Properties button.
3.
Select the Settings tab in the upper right corner.
4.
Adjust the color quality to the setting that you desire.
5.
Click the OK button after making your changes.
Tips
•After completing step 4, if you would like to make further changes in your settings be sure to select the Apply button before switching tabs. This will save the changes that you have made in the Settings tab.
Steps
1.
Right click with your mouse anywhere on the computer desktop.
2.
Select the Properties button.
3.
Select the Settings tab in the upper right corner.
4.
Adjust the color quality to the setting that you desire.
5.
Click the OK button after making your changes.
Tips
•After completing step 4, if you would like to make further changes in your settings be sure to select the Apply button before switching tabs. This will save the changes that you have made in the Settings tab.
Wednesday, 26 August 2009
How To Stop Your CRT Monitor From Flickering
CRT monitors can be a pain on the eyes, especially for those of us who spend lots of time in front of the computer. Much of this pain is caused by a flickering monitor. To increase the refresh rate of your CRT monitor and help prevent the monitor from noticeably flickering, one may do the following:
1.Right Click on the Desktop
2.Select “Properties”
3.Click on the “Settings” Tab
4.Click on the “Advanced”button
5.Open up the “Monitor” Tab
6.Manually increase the “Screen Refresh Rate”, which is measured in Hertz.
However, if you don\’t notice that your monitor is flickering, then there is no need to increase the refresh rate. Also, remember to take frequent breaks from constantly viewing the monitor and focus on various objects at different distances for a couple seconds – this is a great way to reduce sore eyes and pays off in the long run.
1.Right Click on the Desktop
2.Select “Properties”
3.Click on the “Settings” Tab
4.Click on the “Advanced”button
5.Open up the “Monitor” Tab
6.Manually increase the “Screen Refresh Rate”, which is measured in Hertz.
However, if you don\’t notice that your monitor is flickering, then there is no need to increase the refresh rate. Also, remember to take frequent breaks from constantly viewing the monitor and focus on various objects at different distances for a couple seconds – this is a great way to reduce sore eyes and pays off in the long run.
Analyze (And Optimize) Your Windows XP Boot Time
Over time, your Windows XP machine can start to slow on bootup time. This is either due to impatience on waiting for the machine to load (sound familiar?), but most likely to additional software which adds overhead to the boot process. The obvious tool to use to analyze and modify the bootup process is MSConfig, but unfortunately it doesn’t actually tell you the benefits you get from removing items from the startup process. In order to get a full analysis, use Microsoft’s free tool, BootVis.
BootVis analyzes the time it takes for each step of the process so you can see where most of the time is spent and adjust accordingly. The use of BootVis is relatively simple, just go to Trace > Reboot to have your system analyzed and then adjust accordingly. There is even an “optimize” function built in for those of you who want to let BootVis determine the best setup for your system. Of course, be careful when you use the optimize function because it might disable something you need.
Overall the goal of BootVis is to get your computer to boot to a usable state in 30 seconds or better. Depending on machine speed, this is a very reasonable amount of time. Either way, this is a great tool to have.
BootVis analyzes the time it takes for each step of the process so you can see where most of the time is spent and adjust accordingly. The use of BootVis is relatively simple, just go to Trace > Reboot to have your system analyzed and then adjust accordingly. There is even an “optimize” function built in for those of you who want to let BootVis determine the best setup for your system. Of course, be careful when you use the optimize function because it might disable something you need.
Overall the goal of BootVis is to get your computer to boot to a usable state in 30 seconds or better. Depending on machine speed, this is a very reasonable amount of time. Either way, this is a great tool to have.
Faster Dual Boot Timeout
If you dual boot your PC using Windows XP’s dual boot process, you can reduce the timeout period your PC uses before booting to the default OS. This can be useful if you use the same OS most of the time and don’t like the longer wait. You can always press enter and skip the wait, but why wait? To do it, here’s the procedure:
1) Locate and Open the hidden file “boot.ini” in notepad or your favorite text editor. This file will likely be in the root directory on the boot partition of your “master” HD.
2) Locate the line - timeout=30 (default is 30 seconds). Change this value to any time desired. Be careful not to choose too low of a setting or you may not have time to select your other OS’s. Also, be careful not to change other lines as this may prevent your PC from booting at all.
3) Save the file. The next time you boot your PC, the changes will take effect.
1) Locate and Open the hidden file “boot.ini” in notepad or your favorite text editor. This file will likely be in the root directory on the boot partition of your “master” HD.
2) Locate the line - timeout=30 (default is 30 seconds). Change this value to any time desired. Be careful not to choose too low of a setting or you may not have time to select your other OS’s. Also, be careful not to change other lines as this may prevent your PC from booting at all.
3) Save the file. The next time you boot your PC, the changes will take effect.
Speeding Up the Boot Process
One of our readers named Nassir submitted the following question:
My PC takes for ever to reboot. Could you show me ways to speed it up?
Let me count the ways, actually. The problem of a slow boot process is one that has about as many solutions as it has causes. But, here is one piece of data that, if you understand, will simplify the entire thing for you:
The more stuff that Windows has to start up during boot, the longer it will take to complete.
So, with that in mind, the first thing you need to do is start unloading programs which are set to start automatically when you boot Windows. There are two places, primarily, that you want to look at:
1.Look in the “Startup” folder in your Start Menu. Anything in that folder is set to start automatically. To remove a program from this folder, simply navigate to the “Startup” folder in your Start Menu, right-click on the item you want to remove, and choose “Delete” from the menu. This will not delete the program…only the shortcut to it.
2.There are a lot of programs set to start automatically that do not put themselves conveniently in the “Startup” folder. To get to those, you have to get into the Windows registry. Now, I don’t recommend tinkering with the registry unless you’re already familiar with it (and chances are if you are getting anything out of this post, you’re not). So, it is best to use another utility to get to it. The “built-in” way is to go to the Start Menu > Run and type in “msconfig” and press Enter. The “System Configuration” window will appear. Go to the “Startup” tab to get a full list of programs that are starting up automatically. Uncheck the ones that you want to disable. Then press “OK” to save your changes. On the next reboot, you will be warned about selective startup. Just click through it because it is OK.
Now, sometimes when you are looking into processes that start automatically, you can tell upon inspection what program it is. Other times you can’t, or you don’t know enough about it to know whether it is safe to disable or not. For this, I recommend the Ultimate Troubleshooter, a utility which looks at your Windows processes and provides a plain-English description of what it is and whether you can turn it off or not.
Aside from automatically starting programs, you also want to clean out general “gunk” from your system. For this, I recommend CCleaner. It is a free utility which will help you scan for and remove crap that is not needed. It will also scan your registry and help you clean it up. It also, conveniently, will allow you to view and disable startup processes, just like “msconfig”.
While you’re at it, check out your list of Windows services. Any service which is set to start automatically will do just that. But, many of those processes may be unnecessary because you rarely if ever use the feature which they enable. If this is the case, you can go and turn the startup mode for the service to “Manual”.
And lastly, let me give you a little list of other items you can look into to speed up your boot process:
1.Add more memory. More memory (up to 2 gigabytes) always makes Windows run more smoothly.
2.Reduce the number of fonts installed under Windows. The more fonts you have, the more Windows performance is impacted.
3.Get a hard drive with a faster RPM speed.
4.Fine tune your security software. If you have anti-virus, anti-spyware and firewall software installed at maximum settings, this can slow down your computer a great deal.
5.Defragment routinely.
Yeah, users of other operating systems probably laugh at how Windows slows down so much when you load it up. Such is the nature of using an operating system which uses a registry. But, until Microsoft decides to completely change the way Windows operates, we will have to think about the above when trying to figure out why Windows runs so slow.
My PC takes for ever to reboot. Could you show me ways to speed it up?
Let me count the ways, actually. The problem of a slow boot process is one that has about as many solutions as it has causes. But, here is one piece of data that, if you understand, will simplify the entire thing for you:
The more stuff that Windows has to start up during boot, the longer it will take to complete.
So, with that in mind, the first thing you need to do is start unloading programs which are set to start automatically when you boot Windows. There are two places, primarily, that you want to look at:
1.Look in the “Startup” folder in your Start Menu. Anything in that folder is set to start automatically. To remove a program from this folder, simply navigate to the “Startup” folder in your Start Menu, right-click on the item you want to remove, and choose “Delete” from the menu. This will not delete the program…only the shortcut to it.
2.There are a lot of programs set to start automatically that do not put themselves conveniently in the “Startup” folder. To get to those, you have to get into the Windows registry. Now, I don’t recommend tinkering with the registry unless you’re already familiar with it (and chances are if you are getting anything out of this post, you’re not). So, it is best to use another utility to get to it. The “built-in” way is to go to the Start Menu > Run and type in “msconfig” and press Enter. The “System Configuration” window will appear. Go to the “Startup” tab to get a full list of programs that are starting up automatically. Uncheck the ones that you want to disable. Then press “OK” to save your changes. On the next reboot, you will be warned about selective startup. Just click through it because it is OK.
Now, sometimes when you are looking into processes that start automatically, you can tell upon inspection what program it is. Other times you can’t, or you don’t know enough about it to know whether it is safe to disable or not. For this, I recommend the Ultimate Troubleshooter, a utility which looks at your Windows processes and provides a plain-English description of what it is and whether you can turn it off or not.
Aside from automatically starting programs, you also want to clean out general “gunk” from your system. For this, I recommend CCleaner. It is a free utility which will help you scan for and remove crap that is not needed. It will also scan your registry and help you clean it up. It also, conveniently, will allow you to view and disable startup processes, just like “msconfig”.
While you’re at it, check out your list of Windows services. Any service which is set to start automatically will do just that. But, many of those processes may be unnecessary because you rarely if ever use the feature which they enable. If this is the case, you can go and turn the startup mode for the service to “Manual”.
And lastly, let me give you a little list of other items you can look into to speed up your boot process:
1.Add more memory. More memory (up to 2 gigabytes) always makes Windows run more smoothly.
2.Reduce the number of fonts installed under Windows. The more fonts you have, the more Windows performance is impacted.
3.Get a hard drive with a faster RPM speed.
4.Fine tune your security software. If you have anti-virus, anti-spyware and firewall software installed at maximum settings, this can slow down your computer a great deal.
5.Defragment routinely.
Yeah, users of other operating systems probably laugh at how Windows slows down so much when you load it up. Such is the nature of using an operating system which uses a registry. But, until Microsoft decides to completely change the way Windows operates, we will have to think about the above when trying to figure out why Windows runs so slow.
Tuesday, 25 August 2009
Have A Taskbar For Each Monitor
A problem with using multiple monitors in Windows is you can only have your taskbar across the bottom of one of them. While this isn’t a huge inconvenience, it can be a nuisance nonetheless. If you find this behavior annoying, take a look at Oscar’s Multi-Monitor Taskbar.
This free program creates a taskbar along the bottom of each of your monitors and only displays the programs running on that monitor respectively. Some features from the web site:
It adds second taskbar to the extended desktop on Monitor 2
It can add third taskbar to the second Extended monitor if you have 3 monitors setup
It shows only applications from that Monitor
It hides the applications on Monitor 2 and 3 from normal Windows Taskbar
Adds a Move to Monitor button to windows applications (XP).
Essentially, this program would make it seem as though each monitor is hooked up to a separate computer with regards to what appears in the taskbar.
There is a Pro version of the Multi-Monitor Taskbar program which adds several additional functions, so if you like the free version, give the upgrade a try.
This free program creates a taskbar along the bottom of each of your monitors and only displays the programs running on that monitor respectively. Some features from the web site:
It adds second taskbar to the extended desktop on Monitor 2
It can add third taskbar to the second Extended monitor if you have 3 monitors setup
It shows only applications from that Monitor
It hides the applications on Monitor 2 and 3 from normal Windows Taskbar
Adds a Move to Monitor button to windows applications (XP).
Essentially, this program would make it seem as though each monitor is hooked up to a separate computer with regards to what appears in the taskbar.
There is a Pro version of the Multi-Monitor Taskbar program which adds several additional functions, so if you like the free version, give the upgrade a try.
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