Windows 7 official pricing announced

Vista and XP users will need to pony up $119.99, $199.99, or $219.99 on October 22 to score their Windows 7 Home Premium, Professional, or Ultimate upgrade, and those of you who want a full retail disc will need to roll up with $199.99, $299.99, or $319.99 respectively. It's not quite that simple, though: starting tomorrow, June 26, you'll be able to pre-order upgrades at much cheaper prices -- $49.99 for Home Premium and $99.99 for Professional..

Link:
http://www.engadget.com/...

In case you don't know the difference between the versions check this out:
http://www.veign.com/blog/2009/02/windows-7-versions.html

Colossal Patch Tuesday addresses 31 Windows, IE8 vulnerabilities

Just when it appeared Windows and its associated services were looking more stable month after month, Microsoft chose June to tackle a plethora of vulnerabilities including no fewer than 14 that its security engineers believe could be exploitable within the next 30 days.

With that many fixes I think it will be better to wait a couple days to make sure the patches don't introduce any problems.

Link:
http://www.betanews.com/article/...

Windows 7 Little Tweaker

Windows 7 Little Tweaker is a small and simple to use utility that let you easily activate a few useful extras for Microsoft's new OS, Windows 7 Ultimate. Windows 7 Little Tweaker is a Windows 7 only portable application and will not run on any other Windows versions. Windows 7 Little Tweaker must run as Administrator, and with UAC disabled.

Link:
http://leelusoft.blogspot.com/...

Windows 7 to be released October 22

The news comes in advance of comments being planned for the Computex conference in Taiwan early tomorrow morning, by Microsoft Corporate Vice President for OEMs Steve Guggenheimer. There he is scheduled to officially deliver the news that Windows 7 general availability worldwide will begin on Thursday, October 22.

Link:
http://www.betanews.com/article/...

Windows 7 RC1: 10 Things You Need to Know

Windows 7's about ready to come out of the oven, and now everybody can shove their hands in the warm OS pie. And really, you should. Here's everything you need to know to dive in.

Link:
http://gizmodo.com/5241882/...

Get your copy of Windows 7 RC (legally)

Welcome to Windows 7 Release Candidate (RC) testing. We're on our way to Windows 7, and if you like trying out pre-release software, now’s your chance. You get to see what's coming, and we get to see if our changes and fixes from the Beta testing are working correctly.

How do you test the software? You put it on your PC, and then do what you'd normally do. Your PC will automatically and anonymously send our engineers the information they need to verify the fixes and changes they made based on the Windows 7 Beta tests.

I currently have Windows 7 RC running in a Virtual PC and so far so different. Going from XP to 7 is going to be a shock.

Link:
http://www.microsoft.com/...

Talking About Windows

Find out what the industry and Microsoft Engineers are saying about the next OS from Microsoft, Windows 7.

Link:
http://talkingaboutwindows.com/

Five Best Malware Removal Tools

The internet—unfortunately—isn't a never-ending buffet of secure open-source software and Bollywood-style musicals starring LOLCats. There are people and organizations that delight in stealing your personal data, hijacking your computer, and making a general nuisance of themselves through malicious software. This week we're highlighting the top five tools for removing software with ill-intentions from you PC.

Link:
http://lifehacker.com/5227896/...

Window 7 to include XP Mode

Windows XP Mode is specifically designed to help small businesses move to Windows 7. Windows XP Mode provides you with the flexibility to run many older productivity applications on a Windows 7 based PC.

All you need to do is to install suitable applications directly in Windows XP Mode which is a virtual Windows XP environment running under Windows Virtual PC. The applications will be published to the Windows 7 desktop and then you can run them directly from Windows 7.

Still have to get used to the new interface, for those who have not moved to Vista.

Link:
http://windowsteamblog.com/blogs/...

Engineering Windows 7

This blog post talks about a few of the improvements that will be in our Release Candidate (RC) based upon customer feedback. There are many under the hood changes (bug fixes, compatibility fixes, performance improvements, and improvements) across the entire dev team that we just don’t have room to discuss here, but we thought you’d enjoy a taste of some changes made by three of our feature teams: Core User Experience, Find & Organize and Devices & Media.

Great information if you're looking to see what's happening with Windows 7

Link:
http://blogs.msdn.com/e7/archive/...

Video: Deep inside Window 7 with Mark Russinovich

Microsoft offers clarifications on Windows 7 SKU issues

A number of key details surrounding Microsoft's announcement yesterday on Windows 7 versions were left up in the air, and now spokespersons are working to bring them down to earth.

Link:
http://www.betanews.com/article/...

Windows 7 versions

Click the image for a larger version

Read more:
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/...

Is Windows 7 secure enough?

it's an little embarrassing to discover that a dumbfoundingly simple method for forcing Windows to accept keypresses from a script as though they'd been pressed by a human being, is the focus of a proof-of-concept macro capable of disengaging User Account Control in Windows 7.

Link:
http://www.betanews.com/...

Windows XP services explained

Windows XP is made up of a bunch of different applications running side by side. These applications are broken down into services, DLL files, and registry entries. Before I get a bunch emails, I know it’s far more complex than this but I am trying to keep it simple. Today we are going to focus in on some default XP services that are completely useless, or close to it. These services run in the background and take up memory, so disabling some of them will increase the amount of available memory in your system.

Link:
http://www.devotedgeek.com/...

Only 7 hours to install Windows 7 beta

Currently running in a Virtual PC environment.

More posts coming on what I find when poking around the Windows 7 Beta. Want to see something specific? Leave a comment.

emEditor releases version 8

EmEditor Text Editor is a lightweight, yet extendable, easy-to-use text editor for Windows. EmEditor is very customizable, and it supports Unicode and powerful macros. EmEditor now supports very large files - up to 248 GB or 2.1 billion lines! EmEditor is certified for Windows Vista! The x64 Edition is also available! The portable version is also available for USB drive setup!

In this version (8.0) there are many new features including a Large File Controller, Vertical Selection Editing, Binary Editing, Optimized Search and Replace, improved Projects Plug-in, and many more!

emEditor has got to be one of the best text editors I have come across. So much so that it is my main application for writing web development code (HTML, CSS and PHP).

Link:
http://www.emeditor.com/

The Matrix on Windows

Next Windows version to be called Windows 7

Microsoft announced last night that they’ve come up with with a name for Windows 7. You might be expecting something along the lines of “XP” or “Vista,” but they aren’t going that route this time around. They’ve actually decided to go back to their roots and call the next major release “Windows 7.” This is just like the old days when Microsoft named milestones based on version (3.11, etc…) or year (95, 98, etc…).

Link:
http://cybernetnews.com/2008/10/14/...

Windows 7 M3 Build 6780 Pictures

The writings on the wall. Get used to the Vista like experience or move to Linux. If you are sticking with XP attempting to wait out Microsoft hoping they would take a step back with the UI of Windows there doesn't seem to be a point. Windows 7 is shaping up to be Vista II and not a cross between what users love about XP with the enhancements of Vista.

I'm still going to wait for Windows 7 before leaving XP.

See more at:
http://www.thinknext.net/archives/2268

Pushing the Limits of Windows: Physical Memory

This is the first blog post in a series I'll write over the coming months called Pushing the Limits of Windows that describes how Windows and applications use a particular resource, the licensing and implementation-derived limits of the resource, how to measure the resource’s usage, and how to diagnose leaks. To be able to manage your Windows systems effectively you need to understand how Windows manages physical resources, such as CPUs and memory, as well as logical resources, such as virtual memory, handles, and window manager objects. Knowing the limits of those resources and how to track their usage enables you to attribute resource usage to the applications that consume them, effectively size a system for a particular workload, and identify applications that leak resources.

Link:
http://blogs.technet.com/markrussinovich/...

Defrag a single file with Contig

Contig is a single-file defragmenter that attempts to make files contiguous on disk. Its perfect for quickly optimizing files that are continuously becoming fragmented, or that you want to ensure are in as few fragments as possible.

Another great utility from SysInternals

Link:
http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinternals/bb897428.aspx

5 Microsoft Power Toys you should know about

SyncToy
With new sources of files coming from every direction (such as digital cameras, e-mail, cell phones, portable media players, camcorders, PDAs, and laptops), SyncToy can help you copy, move, and synchronize different directories

Tweak UI
This PowerToy gives you access to system settings that are not exposed in the Windows XP default user interface, including mouse settings, Explorer settings, taskbar settings, and more.

Power Calculator
With this PowerToy you can graph and evaluate functions as well as perform many different types of conversions.

Image Resizer
This PowerToy enables you to resize one or many image files with a right-click.

Alt-Tab Replacement
With this PowerToy, in addition to seeing the icon of the application window you are switching to, you will also see a preview of the page. This helps particularly when multiple sessions of an application are open.


Link:
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/Downloads/...

Windows Updates released to DVD ISO image

I didn't know that Microsoft was releasing the monthly security updates to a DVD ISO image as well as through the Windows Update tool. I guess for someone in an enterprise environment a DVD of the updates may be a desirable thing.

August 2008 DVD ISO:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/...

BSOD at the Olympics opening ceremonies

Link:
http://gizmodo.com/5035456/...

DM2

DM2 provides Windows enhancements that helps in every-day work. This overview is a good starting point and a DM2 introduction since it covers the basics of all functionalities. Don't forget that all described DM2 functions are very configurable and may be set to match user personal needs

• Minimize to floating icon
• Minimize to tray
• Hide window
• Align and resize
• Enhanced system menu
• Opacity and On-top flag
• Process priority
• Open/Save dialog favorites & recent

Link:
http://dm2.sourceforge.net/overview.html

Shortcut to Show/Hide Hidden Files

After a little research I had come across an article on the PCWorld forum that outlined how I could create a shortcut that would enable or disable hidden files on the fly. If the setting is enabled it would disable it when run, and vice versa. It’s one shortcut that serves as an on/off switch for hidden files.

Link:
http://cybernetnews.com/2008/07/24/...

Windows Update thought I was running a Mac

I got the above error message (This website is designed to work with Microsoft Windows operating systems only) when trying to run Windows Update. A Mac, really?. To fix the issue, and get Windows Update working again I deleted the following two registry keys:


[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\
CurrentVersion\Internet Settings\5.0\User Agent]

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\
Windows\CurrentVersion\Internet Settings\5.0\User Agent]


Once deleted, I rebooted the computer and all was working again.

If you want to see what your Agent string is check out:
http://www.veign.com/tools/reflection/
(look at Browser information)

Is this Windows 7

Posted over at Crunchgear with many more:
http://www.crunchgear.com/2008/05/27/...

Windows XP life extended

Today Microsoft announced the worldwide extension of the availability of Windows XP Home for an emerging, new class of mobile personal computers commonly known as ultra-low-cost PCs, or ULCPCs. Windows XP Home for ULCPCs will be available until the later of June 30, 2010, or one year after general availability of the next version of Windows.

Link:
http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/...

Get a free PC safety scan

Windows Live OneCare safety scanner is a free service designed to help ensure the health of your PC.

• Check for and remove viruses
• Get rid of junk on your hard disk
• Improve your PC's performance

Ran a full scan in a Virtual PC and it mainly found registry problems. Ran the fixes and really can't tell anything - which I expect from the registry problems tools like this find.

Link:
http://onecare.live.com/site/en-us/default.htm

Find out what a system log event id means

The Event ID database contains 9,666 event IDs and 455 event sources, with 15,226 comments provided by 3,322 contributors, 1,732 submitted events or comments pending validation.

Great source to find out what those sometime cryptic events ids mean or what other users have found out about them.

Link:
http://www.eventid.net

Are you ready for Vista SP1?

Microsoft Corp. will release Windows Vista Service Pack 1 (SP1) on Monday, Feb. 4, according to reports Friday from Tech ARP.com, a Malaysian Web site.

Other sources, meanwhile, claimed that Windows Server 2008 will also reach RTM (release to manufacturing) in the coming week.

Luckily I'm still on WinXP and probably will be for the next couple of years. I see no reason to move to Vista and will probably wait to see what Windows 7 is like.

Link:
http://www.computerworld.com/action/...

Microsoft maintains list of all Windows keyboard shortcuts

• Windows Logo+E: Windows Explorer
  
• Windows Logo+L: Log off Windows
• Windows Logo+P: Starts Print Manager
• Windows Logo+C: Opens Control Panel
• Windows Logo+V: Starts Clipboard
• Windows Logo+K: Opens Keyboard Properties dialog box
• Windows Logo+I: Opens Mouse Properties dialog box
• Windows Logo+A: Starts Accessibility Options (if installed)
• Windows Logo+SPACEBAR: Displays the list of Microsoft IntelliType shortcut keys
• Windows Logo+S: Toggles CAPS LOCK on and off

Complete List:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/126449

Windows Home Server Power Pack 1

The first minor release of Windows Home Server was announced today at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. Power Pack 1, formerly code named "UR1", will ship in the first half of 2008 and be made available to existing customers of Windows Home Server via Windows Update.

Power Pack 1 has some great new functionality. A high level overview is included below and we will share additional details in more blog posts throughout the week.

Link:
http://.../windows-home-server-power-pack-1.aspx

5 useful Windows XP tricks

• Organize your files into groups
• Make your own icons
• Don't just maximize your windows—go full screen
• Add the Links toolbar to My Computer
• Arrange windows on your desktop

Link:
http://www.microsoft.com/athome/moredone/5xptricks.mspx

Apache, MySQL, PHP on Windows with WAMP

Easy as 1-2-3

• 1. Download the latest release of Wampserver 2
• 2. Optionally add as much Apache, PHP and MySQL releases as you want
• 3. Work with a development environment that reproduces exactly your production server

Link:
http://www.wampserver.com/en/

Disable error reporting in Windows

1. Go into the Control Panel
2. Click the System icon
3. On the Advanced tab, click Error Reporting
4. Click Disable error reporting

3 stubborn PC problems you can fix

1.You keep getting a "your system is running low on virtual memory" message
2.Your windows slide off the desktop . . . and you can't grab them
3.Your taskbar has disappeared

Read about the fixes:
http://www.microsoft.com/atwork/getstarted/pcproblems.mspx

An Unofficial Guide to the URL File Format

Sample URL file:

[InternetShortcut]
URL=http://www.veign.com/
WorkingDirectory=C:\WINDOWS\
ShowCommand=7
IconIndex=1
IconFile=C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM\url.dll
Modified=20F06BA06D07BD014D
HotKey=1601


Full URL file spec:
http://www.cyanwerks.com/file-format-url.html

HowTo: Change the default folder view in Windows explorer

With this tip you can change how all folder display by default in Windows Explorer. Personally I like the Detailed View on most folders. The exception is a desktop folder of shortcuts where I leave it in Icon view.

1. Open Window Explorer
2. Click on any folder and set the Display View you want (drop down on the toolbar)
3. Navigate to the menu item Tools -> Folder Options
4. Select the Folder tab
5. At the top of the tab is a button that says Apply to All Folders
6. Click it and all folders will now display the view type you previously selected

Its just that simple.

WinXP SP3 - Another reason to stick with XP

Vista, which is now more than 2x slower than the most current builds of its older sibling. Suffice to say that performance-minded users will likely choose to stick with the now even speedier Windows XP [sp3]

The new laptop I ordered is coming with XP - just not worth the hassle of switching when XP, IMO, is still a great OS.

Link:
http://.../windows-xp-sp3-yields-performance-gains.html

What is ActiveX (used in some websites)?

An ActiveX control is essentially a simple OLE object. Originally, ActiveX controls were called "OLE controls" and used a .ocx file extension. This was actually the second-generation component architecture. The first generation was the Visual Basic Controls (.vbx). OLE controls were renamed ActiveX and continue to use the .ocx extension. ActiveX controls enable a program to add functionality by calling ready-made components that blend in and appear as normal parts of the program. They are typically used to add user interface functions, such as 3D toolbars, a notepad, calculator or even a spreadsheet.

Read the full article:
http://.../introduction-to-activex-part-one.aspx

Changing the position of the desktop wallpaper through the registry

Key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop

Change the value for the TileWallpaper and WallPaperstyle settings per below.

Stretch

• TileWallpaper = 0
• WallPaperstyle = 2

Tile

• TileWallpaper = 1
• WallPaperstyle = 0

Center

• TileWallpaper = 0
• WallPaperstyle = 0

Why you would want to do this, who knows. But since I recently answered someone who was looking to do this I thought I would let everyone know.

Windows 7 "top feature request list" leaked to the public

With Windows still managing to find its way to over 95 percent of the desktop computers sold each year, it's not surprising that one can find plenty of people interested in giving their feedback about what future versions of Windows should be able to do. A few years ago, before Windows Vista had even shipped, Microsoft sent out a wish list form asking people what features they would like to see in the next version of Windows, currently code-named Windows 7. The top wished-for features in this list were recently leaked to the public and have popped up at various sites (e.g., Neowin). While anonymous sources at Microsoft tell us that they bear no relationship to the actual feature set Microsoft is currently writing for Windows 7, the list does provide interesting insight into what the Windows-using public most wants from Windows.

Link:
http://...early-windows-7-feature-list-leaked-to-the-public.html

Flickr offers tools for uploading images

If you don't like working through a web interface for handling your Flickr account then you can use the standalone applications they offer for uploading and working with images in your Flickr account. Easy to install and even easier to work with makes this an option for the most novice users.

Also, Flickr has a pretty cool WinXP Explorer plugin that lets you 'Send To Flickr' right from within Windows Explorer. Can't get much easier than that. (look at the bottom of the tools page for the download and how to install here)

Flickr Uploader:
http://www.flickr.com/tools/

Windows 7 teaser video

Catch a glimpse of Windows 7 (no UI) or what MS is calling MiniWin:
http://.../eric-talk-demo-windows-7-minwin/

Defraggler - a new kind of disk defragger

It differs from other defrag tools on the market, by enabling you to quickly and simply defrag the files you want to, without having to process the whole drive. Simply run it, select the file and defragment in seconds. No more struggling with the Windows defragmentation tool!

Its currently in beta and I would recommend waiting for an official release before trying it. Something about a beta disk defragger that makes me nervous.

Link:
http://www.defraggler.com/

Best of Screensavers

Link:
http://www.smashingmagazine.com/.../screensavers-best-of/

Common reason for a slow running computer

Is having too many applications (or processes) running in the background. Most of the running applications come from applications running at Windows startup and silently hiding in the background churning away using those precious processor cycles. Want to know whats running and what is safe to kill? Read on...

What is currently running or will run at startup:
AutoRuns: The most comprehensive knowledge of auto-starting locations of any startup monitor, shows you what programs are configured to run during system bootup or login, and shows you the entries in the order Windows processes them.

How to watch for applications trying to register to run automatically:
StartupMonitor: A small utility that runs transparently (it doesn't even use a tray icon) and notifies you when any program registers itself to run at system startup. It prevents annoying programs from registering themselves behind your back.

What is safe to kill:
Process Library: One of the best active databases to find out what is what and what is safe to remove from the startup process.

Find Out If Your Computer Is Secretly Connecting to the Web

If you are trying to track down why your computer is running so slooowwwly, try using this simple DOS command from Digital Inspiration to uncover a possible problem:

• Type cmd in your Windows Run box.
• Type "netstat -b 5 > activity.txt" and press enter.
• After say 2 minutes, press Ctrl+C.
• Type "activity.txt" on the command line to open the log file in notepad (or your default text editor)

Or
Use TCP View from SysInternals

As found on LifeHacker:
http://.../find-out-your-computer-is-secretly-connecting-to-the-web

How Windows Update Keeps Itself Up-to-Date

There have been some questions raised about how we service the Windows Update components and concerns expressed about software installing silently. I want to clarify the issue so that everyone can better understand why the self-updating of Windows Update acts the way it does.

Link:
http://.../how-windows-update-keeps-itself-up-to-date.aspx

Windows Server 2008 Step-by-Step Guides

Windows Server 2008 Step-by-Step Guides: "These step-by-step guides help IT Professionals learn about and evaluate Windows Server 2008."

CCleaner v2.0

CCleaner has released v2.0 of its very popular system cleanup tool. Better and faster is what they claim. I installed it and so far so good.

Whats New:

• Complete rebuild in C++
  With the requirements for a portable version, 64-bit compatibility and Windows Vista increasing against the limitations of the old architecture. We decided to rebuild the entire CCleaner application in highly optimized C++.
• Faster analyzing and cleaning
  Each scanning process was rewritten from scratch and fully optimized. The result being a noticeable speed increase in all areas.
• Portable
  CCleaner can now run from a USB thumbdrive and be installed/run on a computer without a complicated setup process.
• Compact
  The rewrite removed all external file dependencies, so the main EXE is now half the size of the original program and support files.
• Redesigned User Interface
  The original CCleaner user interface was looking a little dated, so the GUI was redesigned with a modern look, but without sacrificing speed or usability. New icons were created for the interface and the main program icon was updated with a more modern style.
• Exclusions
  It is now possible to specify files, folders and registry keys to ignore from the cleaning process.
• Loads of little tweaks
  Too numerous to mention them all separately, we've tried to improve CCleaner in all areas.

Link:
http://www.ccleaner.com/ccleaner-20

Windows passwords safe? - Rainbow Hash Cracking

To understand how rainbow tables work, you first have to understand how passwords are stored on computers, whether on your own desktop, or on a remote web server somewhere.

Passwords are never stored in plaintext. At least they shouldn't be, unless you're building the world's most insecure system using the world's most naïve programmers. Instead, passwords are stored as the output of a hash function. Hashes are one-way operations. Even if an attacker gained access to the hashed version of your password, it's not possible to reconstitute the password from the hash value alone.

But it is possible to attack the hashed value of your password using rainbow tables: enormous, pre-computed hash values for every possible combination of characters. An attacking PC could certainly calculate all these hashes on the fly, but taking advantage of a massive table of pre-computed hash values enables the attack to proceed several orders of magnitude faster-- assuming the attacking machine has enough RAM to store the entire table (or at least most of it) in memory. It's a classic time-memory tradeoff, exactly the sort of cheating shortcut you'd expect a black hat attacker to take.

Link:
http://www.codinghorror.com/blog/archives/000949.html

XYplorer: A multi-tabbed file manager for Windows

XYplorer is a multi-tabbed file manager for Windows, featuring a very powerful file search, versatile preview facilities, a highly customizable interface, and a large array of unique ways to efficiently automate frequently recurring tasks. It's innovative and it's fun!

XYplorer is a portable file manager. It does not require any installation, stores all data in the program's folder, and running it does not change your system or registry.

Read a review:
http://www.donationcoder.com/...

Link:
http://www.xyplorer.com/index.htm

10 things you can do when Windows XP won't boot

When your computer hardware appears to power up okay, but the Windows XP operating system won't boot properly, you have to begin a troubleshooting expedition that includes getting into the operating system, determining the problem, and then fixing it. To help you get started on this expedition, here are 10 things you can do when Windows XP won't boot.

Link:
http://articles.techrepublic.com.com/...

Comodo Free Firewall is better than what comes with WinXP

Unfortunately, most firewalls leak. But Comodo's Firewall is unique in that it passes all known leak tests to ensure the integrity of data entering and exiting your system. Comodo has put firewall through all kinds of sophisticated tests to ensure its firewall powerful enough to ward off these attacks with default settings. No other firewall has had to work this hard.

Features from Comodo's website:

• PC Magazine Online's Editor's Choice
• Secures against internal and external attacks
• Blocks internet access to malicious Trojan programs
• Safeguards your Personal data against theft
• Delivers total end-point security for Personal Computers and Networks

I was a long time user of Sygate's personal firewall but when it was acquired by Symantec no more updates were provided and the firewall and all future development just died. I continued using Sygate until locating Comodo, and so far, has proved to be a great firewall.

Link:
http://www.personalfirewall.comodo.com/

How to patch up your UXtheme.dll file in XP home or pro

In order to use custom themes or MSStyles on your computer you need to patch up your Uxtheme.dll file. Otherwise you can only use signed themes that are created by Microsoft.

What are custom themes? Just check out Window Blinds.

Link:
http://.../how_to_patch_uxtheme_dll_file_xp_home_pro

How to make Windows XP last for the next seven years

How to make Windows XP last for the next seven years: "Windows Vista may be shiny and brand new, but as plenty of PC users will tell you, sometimes newer isn't better. Many PCs simply don't have the horsepower to run the new operating system, and even those that have the juice may get bogged down by processor-and RAM-hungry Vista.

If you've got Windows XP, worry not -- you can keep it running on your hardware for years to come. As with an old car, though, if you plan to keep XP around for a while, you're going to have to spend some time maintaining it. Think of us as your virtual mechanics. We'll give you tips, tweaks and tricks so that you'll be able to keep XP running smoothly, at top performance, for smooth operation and long life."

Link:
http://www.computerworld.com/...

The hunt begins

For information in what exactly will be included in WinXP SP3.

Do you know? If you have any information feel free to email me too.

Link:
http://blogs.zdnet.com/microsoft/?p=588

Microsoft Windows Vista 30-Day Eval VHD

For organizations with complex desktop infrastructures, whether large or small, Windows Vista Enterprise is the operating system designed specifically to help realize a better return on IT investments. In this VHD, you'll have the opportunity to road-test new and improved features including management (e.g. MUI, BDD, etc…) usability (e.g. Search, Navigation, etc…) and security (UAC, Windows Defender, etc…), enhancements to the Windows Vista platform.

Link:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/...

Vista Transformation Pack 7.0 Released

It's been a long wait for some of you, and after several delays, we are pleased to announce to you today, the release of Vista Transformation Pack 7.0, Windows X's latest customization pack to give you the Vista experience without the hassle of a new OS.

Vista Transformation Pack 7.0 brings many new features such as ViStart, a new add-on which emulates the Vista start menu, as well as Thoosje's latest Desktop Sidebar 2.0 to give you the ultimate Windows Vista experience!

Link:
http://www.jcxp.net/forums/index.php?showtopic=18388

Windows XP Service Pack 3 Leaked Details!

Not only is Windows XP Service Pack 3 alive and kicking, but Microsoft also managed to leak details about what the refresh will contain. The Redmond Company's policy when it comes down to future releases of the Windows platform is to gag all details. Windows XP SP3 is old news for Microsoft. And with the general availability of Windows Vista it was pushed to the background. But in all fairness, Microsoft never confirmed the cancellation of the third service pack for Windows XP.

Link:
http://.../Windows-XP-Service-Pack-3-Leaked-Details-57825.shtml

Top tech support forum helps in all areas.

Tech Support Guy is one buzzing forum with lots of groups and 100K's of posts. If you need some help with anything computer than check this forum out. Even if you don't want to ask a questions just using their search feature can probably yield a discussion going on.

Link:
http://forums.techguy.org/

Fun with RUN

Some helpful RUN (Start menu -> Run) commands for Windows:
(type exactly what you see in bold)

• mailto: - Will bring up a blank email message in your default mail program
• about:blank - Bring up IE with a blank webpage
• http://google.com - Opens your default browser with the website of Google
  
• calc - Bring up the Windows Calculator
• wupdmgr - Launches the Windows Update in IE
  
• shutdown - Shuts down Windows
• logoff - Logs you out of Windows
  
• mstsc - Lauches the Remote Desktop application
• osk - Displays an on screen keyboard
• fsquirt - Show the Bluetooth transfer wizard
• explorer - Opens up Windows Explorer
  

Another Windows user switches to Linux

Read the on going story of one Windows users journey into the land of Linux. Will he make it? Will he stay? Will he be back for Windows 7 ? (queue cliffhanging music).

Link:
http://.../index.php?topic=8777

Get Windows Vista for free with a 30-day trial

Microsoft has made available a 30 day trial of Windows Vista through its Virtual PC Product. You can download a pre-configured Virtual Hard Drive and then, with Virtual PC, you get to play around with Windows Vista for 30 days.

Doesn't hurt to see what its all about.

Windows Vista:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/...

Virtual PC:
http://www.microsoft.com/.../virtualpc/default.mspx

Is your computer running slow for no reason?

There were a few people who asked me to help them with their systems running slow even though they are positive it contains no malware of any kind. Thanx to the folks at DonationCoder there seems to be a logical explanation and a sorta fix.

Link:
http://.../how_do_i_fix_this_high_cpu_usage...

WinXP users: European Union Expansion Font Update

Updated versions of Times New Roman, Arial, Trebuchet and Verdana fonts that include six additional Romanian and Bulgarian characters not available in the Windows XP versions of these fonts.

Link:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/...

ObjectDock is a bit too UI overkill for me

ObjectDock is a program that enables users to organize their shortcuts, programs and running tasks into an attractive and fun animated Dock. By allowing users to have more control over how they organize their desktop, users can take control of their desktop icons and shortcuts to have them be available when where and how they need them. This, all with the unique style and top-rate performance that ObjectDock is known to deliver!

I will start by saying that I am very impressed with what StarDock has been able to accomplish with skinning and adding these UI enhancements to Windows but its all a bit too much for me. Check out ObjectDock as its free and leave a comment on your thoughts.

ObjectDock (free):
http://www.stardock.com/products/objectdock/

Microsoft codenames

See all the upcoming and active codenames for future Microsoft products. Not sure why I thought Fiji was the next release of Windows after Vista but its not. Fiji is the next release of Windows Media Center while Windows 7 is the next release of Windows after Vista.

Like a lot of other people I will probably skip Vista and wait for Windows 7 before upgrading. Not sure there is much need for Vista since MS has said it will provide a SP3 for WinXP, that should hold me over.

Link:
http://blogs.zdnet.com/topic/Microsoft+codenames.html

Windows XP to be phased out by year's end despite customer demand

Windows XP to be phased out by year's end despite customer demand: "Computer makers have been told they'll no longer be able to get Windows XP OEM by the end of this year, despite consumer resistance to Vista and its compatibility problems.

By early 2008, Microsoft's contracts with computer makers will require companies to only sell Vista-loaded machines. 'The OEM version of XP Professional goes next January,' said Frank Luburic, senior ThinkPad product manager for Lenovo. 'At that point, they'll have no choice.'"

That is going to be a mess and I am glad I don't offer computer support.

Link:
http://.../vendors_in_no_rush_to_ditch_xp_for_vista

Speed up Windows XP in minutes

A short little article on what you can do to speed up Windows XP by basically disabling what you don't need. Just watch out for #8.

Link:
http://www.mobile-pedia.com/.../SpeedupWindowsXP

BlackViper's Windows Vista Service Configurations

Black Viper provides some of the best insight on services running under different Windows operating system. Black Viper has now released his list of Windows Vista services and configuration and what he recommends for a configuration. Running WinXP, no problem, he has that too.

If you've never read his stuff you really need to check it out.

Link:
http://www.blackviper.com/WinVista/servicecfg.htm

Yahoo! Widgets releases version 4.0

Yahoo! Widgets help you save time and stay current by bringing an always-updated, at-a-glance view of your favorite Internet services right to your desktop.

The Yahoo! Widget Gallery offers over 4,000 desktop Widgets - the most available anywhere online. Yahoo! Widgets is the only major desktop Widgets platform that works on both Windows and Mac OSes.

Link:
http://widgets.yahoo.com

Create the strangest Windows wallpaper ever seen

A member over at the DonationCoder forum pointed out a way to make some really strange Windows wallpaper by letting Windows do all the work.

The quick and dirty steps:

• Create a small 4 pixel (or multiple pixel) bitmap with each pixel being a different color
• Set that bitmap as your Windows wallpaper and let Windows stretch it
• The result is a psychedelic wallpaper when multiple (greater than 4) pixel images are used and a gradient if 4 pixels are used.
  

To see the exact steps and some samples check out the thread about this.

Link:
http://www.donationcoder.com/Forums/bb/index.php?topic=7833

AutoPatcher: Create a portable CD of all Windows updates

AutoPatcher is based on the functionality of these special updates, automating their installation process. This way, with only a few mouse clicks and two minutes of your time, AutoPatcher is able to continue with the installation of the items you selected. In short, AutoPatcher combines the advantage of both Windows Update (presentation and description of updates and automated installation), and the special administrative updates (portability and installation without the need of an Internet connection).

Link:
http://www.autopatcher.com

How to create a Desktop shortcut to run Windows Defrag

1. Right click on the Windows desktop
2. Select New -> Shortcut
3. In the location field type in %windir%\system32\dfrg.msc then click Next
4. In the Name field type in Defrag (or your choice) then click on Finish

You will now have a desktop shortcut directly to the Defrag utility

All about fonts on large, high resolution displays

Text Legibility: Using 120 DPI Fonts on High Resolution Displays:
http://blogs.msdn.com/.../94391.aspx

High Res Problem on Windows
http://.../web-dev-problem-win-ie-on-widescreen/

Adjusting Scale for Higher DPI Screens
http://msdn.microsoft.com/.../highdpi.asp

Why do large displays have so few pixels?
http://.../why-do-large-displays-have-so-few-pixels

10 Things You Need to Know about Deploying Windows Vista

You've deployed Windows XP in the past, and now you're thinking ahead to Windows Vista. Whether you'll be deploying to 10, 100, or 100,000 computers, just knowing how the process has changed from Windows XP will make the deployment run much more smoothly.

Link:
http://.../Deployment/default.aspx

Why Certain Web sites are Slow in Vista

Do you have a problem with certain websites loading verrrry sloooowly? Google around a bit and you'll find you're not the only one. Microsoft's new network stack has had a number of different problems, most of them caused by the rest of the world not being completely up-to-date with the latest standards (backwards compatibility, who needs it!). This problem is no exception.

Read how to resolve this Vista issue:
http://.../itsvista-tip-37-why-certain-web-sites-are-slow-in-vista/

2007 time zone update for MS Windows operating systems

Be ready for the brand new daylight savings time change. You need to get Windows and Office ready.

Link:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/928388

You Can Install the Vista Upgrade Without XP

You can install the upgrade version of Vista even if you don't have XP or 2000 installed, or even without access to a disc with one of the old OSes.

Link:
http://.../whoops-you-can-install-the-vista-upgrade-without-xp

When things go wrong in Vista, and they will.

Scares me to death to do a system restore in WinXP but others swear by it. For the mom and pop user, System Restore is the greatest thing added into Windows since Solitaire. Why? Because you can totally screw your system up and press a couple buttons and Windows will put your system back to a known stable restore point. I just don't trust it and would prefer to work through the problem myself and fix it.

Now comes Vista and System Restore is still in place. So, heres a tutorial to get you up to speed in using System Restore in Vista...

Link:
http://articles.techrepublic.com.com/...

Create a custom internet shortcut on your desktop

Would you like a customized desktop shortcut that will take you directly to a website of your choice? Then follow these steps.

1) Right click on the desktop and select New -> Text Document
2) Rename the text document some meaningful name like VeignBlog.txt
3) Edit the content of the file by opening it in Notepad
4) Add these lines (between the lines)
----------------------------------------
[InternetShortcut]
URL=http://veign.com/blog
IconIndex=0
IconFile=c:\somepath\MyIcon.ico
----------------------------------------
5) Edit the URL to point to the URL of your choice (I would recommend leaving it pointing my blog)
6) Edit the path to the Icon you want to use. If you dont have one remove the two Icon lines and it will use the default icon for your browser
7) Save and close the file
8) Edit the name of the file changing its extension from .txt to .url
9) Allow the change to happen and you should now have a customized shortcut to a website using an icon of your choice.

(in case you need some icons check out this list of free icon sources)

Windows Help program no longer included with Windows

Vista does not support the older Windows Help file (.hlp). So if you are upgrading and you have an application that still requires this type of help file then you will need to install support for it yourself - if MS ever releases it.

Link:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/917607

Windows PowerShell 1.0 Installation Package for Windows Vista

Windows PowerShell 1.0 is a new task-based command-line shell and scripting language that is designed specifically for system administration. Built on the .NET Framework, Windows PowerShell helps IT professionals and power users control and automate the administration of the Windows operating system and the applications that run on Windows.

By using Windows PowerShell, administrators can manage their systems by typing individual commands or running scripts that automate management tasks. Exchange Server 2007, System Center Operations Manager 2007, System Center Data Protection Manager V2, and System Center Virtual Machine Manager use Windows PowerShell to improve efficiency and productivity.

Link:
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=928439

Before there was Vista there was...

A history of the Windows Operating System in pictures. Its come a long way.

Link:
http://blog.wired.com/wiredphotos31/

Microsoft extends support for XP Home, XP Media Center

The company announced on Wednesday that it is adding five-year customer support for the operating systems, marking the first time that such extended service has been offered with a Microsoft consumer product.

Hmmm...Wonder why?

Link:
http://news.zdnet.com/...

The Windows Vista launch page is here

Check it out as MS has posted the new Windows Vista Launch page.

Link:
http://.../windowsvista/default.mspx

New Remote Desktop from MS

Just in case you didn't pickup the new Remote Desktop from MS that came out sometime ago through Windows Update here is a link to the updates.

Link:
http://.../new-remote-desktop-client-released-by.html

Top 10 tools for learning more about your computer.

1. Autoruns: The most comprehensive knowledge of auto-starting locations of any startup monitor, shows you what programs are configured to run during system bootup or login, and shows you the entries in the order Windows processes them. These programs include ones in your startup folder, Run, RunOnce, and other Registry keys.

2. Everest Home: EVEREST Home Edition is a freeware system information, system diagnostics and benchmarking solution for home PC

3. Application Monitor: A very small API monitor that allows the user to monitor the APIs called by the given application.

4. Shell Extensions Manager: The ShellExView utility displays the details of shell extensions installed on your computer, and allows you to easily disable and enable each shell extension.

5. Win Updates List: Displays the list of all Windows updates (Service Packs and Hotfixes) installed on your local computer.

6. Index Dat Spy: Index.dat are files hidden on your computer that contain all of the Web sites that you have ever visited. Every URL, and every Web page is listed there. Not only that but all of the email that has been sent or received through Outlook or Outlook Express is also being logged.

7. Why Reboot: Displays a list of "pending file operations" (rename, delete, etc) that will occur after rebooting your computer.

8. Process Monitor: An advanced monitoring tool for Windows that shows real-time file system, Registry and process/thread activity.

9. Start Up List: A simple tool that lists all and every auto starting program on your system. (from the developers of Hijack This)

10. Ethereal: Ethereal is used by network professionals around the world for troubleshooting, analysis, software and protocol development, and education.

Windows Tip: Tile two windows with just two clicks

Windows Tip: Tile two windows with just two clicks:
http://.../windows-tip-tile-two-windows-with-just-two-clicks

Computer Maintenance Best Practices

As outlined in a PowerPoint presentation from MS.

Link:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/...

Not sure I am allowed to do this but here is a PDF version for anyone without PowerPoint

MS gives laptops to Bloggers

Not me but others have received laptops pre-installed with Windows Vista. There are lots of people who are slamming MS for this PR move and others that don't have a problem with it.

Read an opinion:
http://www.joelonsoftware.com/items/2006/12/28.html

The only thing I will say on this topic is I don't think its a bad idea. Giving someone a better tool to provide an honest evaluation is not bribing in my book. If a bloggers gives his or her honest opinion of the OS then whats the problem?

If MS wants to provide me with a laptop I will gladly give them a honest eval of the new OS. I can't afford a new laptop just to test Vista (won't run in VPC efficiently enough to test).

The Five Best and Worst Things About Vista

After five years, Windows Vista is finally here. With a Mac-like interface, improved security, and far better networking, it's a great improvement over Windows XP. Like any new operating system, though, there are things you'll love about it, and things you'll hate about it. Check out my list of five things you'll love and five things you'll hate, and add to the list by using the link at the bottom of the article.

Link:
http://.../the-five-best-and-worst-things-about-vista.html

Delete “access denied” folders or files

Symptom: you have identified files or folders belonging to spyware, malware, or adware that cannot be deleted since some background service has the files or folders locked. You receive a message “access denied” when attempting to delete them and uninstalling the malware from Add/Remove programs, or deleting associated Regkeys, still does not remove the files.

1. Right click on the folder, or file(s), and select Properties.
2. Click on the Security tab.
3. Highlight the Administrators group, and then click Remove. You should not have to highlight any other groups or user names.
4. When prompted with a message “you cannot remove xxxxx/xxxxx because this object is inheriting permissions from its parent, click on "OK" to the message, and then click the “Advanced” button.
5. Uncheck the box for “inherit from parent the permission entries……”
6. When prompted with another dialog “selecting this option means the parent permission entries…… will no longer be applied….” click “Remove”.
7. Still in the Advanced Security Settings dialog, click Add.
8. In the Select User or Group dialog, type in “Everyone” (no quotes) in the “Enter the object…” field, then click on "OK".
9. In the Permissions Entry dialog, check off “Full Control”. All other boxes should automatically be checked off. Click on "OK".
10. In the Advanced Security Settings dialog again, “Everyone” should appear in the Permissions entries field, and under “Inherited From”, should appear.
11. Click on "OK" again to exit that dialog.
12. Click on "OK" to exit the folder or file Properties dialog.

Try deleting the folders or files. You may need to reboot the PC in order to release the current security settings from memory. Once restarted, try deleting the items again. If removing malware from a PC, this is a good start toward disabling the software, especially where Add/Remove Programs, or registry key deletions have not worked.

You can also check out this utility.

Vista and Office 2007 for Free?

Somthing just doesn't seem right about this offer to receive a fully licensed version of Vista and Office 2007 from Microsoft. Watch out with this one and before you enter ANY information search around on Google and see what people have to say.

Link to the offer:
http://www.powertogether.com/#

Whois on the domain:
http://whois.domaintools.com/powertogether.com

Could it actually be for real:
http://channel9.msdn.com/ShowPost.aspx?PostID=261550#261550

Seems it just may be.

Windows PowerShell

Microsoft Windows PowerShell command line shell and scripting language helps IT Professionals achieve greater productivity. Using a new admin-focused scripting language, more than 130 standard command line tools, and consistent syntax and utilities, Windows PowerShell allows IT Professionals to more easily control system administration and accelerate automation.

Link:
http://.../powershell/default.mspx