Looking for a good Webcam Stream to broadcast over the internet. PY Software is worth to check out. It's software is not that difficult to install and create stream video for the internet. You have your choices of how you want to broadcast and for the money it's still the best bet to have live broadcast on the net.
7/8/06
TuneBuckle
If you have a iPod Nano this is the cutest gift to go along with it. It's a Nano Pad holder. Now you can play your tunes and look sexy too.
7/7/06
Test Drive Office 2007
If your wondering what's new in Office 2007 and feel like taking a test drive to see if you would like the new office 2007 then this is the way to go. First try then if you like you buy. At least you can try before you buy.
7/6/06
Life for Old PC's
Microsoft has extend life on old Pc's. It helps companies take the full benefit of an old PC so that companies can migrate slowly. The good thing is that you need not to upgrade immediately. The bad is that you'll have to run most of your programs via your server. So hopefully your server has enough room to store most of the programs your company is running. Only time will tell.
7/5/06
The 80's are back for Xbox
The 80's are back for Xbox. It looks like someone got smarter and decided to put all those popular 80's games into Xbox. You figure Sony and Nintendo would of wised up and bought the rights for these games so that they can profit for years to come. Bad move for them but smart move for Microsoft.
7/4/06
Live Sports Alerts
If you love sports and want to know the current scores now. This service promises just that. I just hope that they can still remain free and that it can live to it's reputation.
7/3/06
Fake Broadband War
Be careful and keep your eyes open when it comes from getting service via DSL and broadband. In some cases you look like you paying less but in reality your paying for more. Even though DSL comes in affordable prices, it can be for only a short time and you sign a yearly contract. If your unhappy with DSL just remember the penalties if you decide to cancel service. There is no broadband war and most prices are just introductory offers that last only a few months before you do get a price increase.
Make sure to read the fine print and find out what you really pay after the introductory offer.
Make sure to read the fine print and find out what you really pay after the introductory offer.
7/2/06
Vonage Trouble
The popular Voice over IP service has new trouble on patent rights and if things are not settled in a proper manner. It could be the end for Vonage. I hope that they can settle this patent dispute quickly and continue there quest for offering more services.
7/1/06
Future Dial to the Rescue
Problem:
Had a laptop and needed to some how be able to send faxes with low cost or no expenses. Could also help if it could connect to my dialup connection while on the move because I was mobile from place to place.
Solution:
Get Future Dial software with cell phone cable adapter and use current Cell phone service to send long distance and local faxes. Have also dialup access just in case I needed service and didn't want to pay the extra expenses because I was going mobile.
Future dial has it's pro's and cons. If you upgrade your phone you have to fork up another cable for the new phone to connect to the software. But I must admit it did save me lot's of money faxing over local and long distance, while mobile.
Get 20 % OFF on entire order use coupon code "OFF20A"
Had a laptop and needed to some how be able to send faxes with low cost or no expenses. Could also help if it could connect to my dialup connection while on the move because I was mobile from place to place.
Solution:
Get Future Dial software with cell phone cable adapter and use current Cell phone service to send long distance and local faxes. Have also dialup access just in case I needed service and didn't want to pay the extra expenses because I was going mobile.
Future dial has it's pro's and cons. If you upgrade your phone you have to fork up another cable for the new phone to connect to the software. But I must admit it did save me lot's of money faxing over local and long distance, while mobile.
Get 20 % OFF on entire order use coupon code "OFF20A"
6/30/06
Office Help
Need help for Office. Try this link. It will minimize most of your Office help questions and make your life easier using office.
6/29/06
Free Panorama software
AutoStich is your answer for stitching pictures together and making a new unique panorama pictures. Who said that stitches pictures together was going to be boring.
6/28/06
Need Hosting check out Dreamhost
Make sure to use the promo code DIS1 for a hosting discount rate.
Check it out and hopefully Dreamhost will make your life easier.
Check it out and hopefully Dreamhost will make your life easier.
6/27/06
What's better Hard Drive vs Flash Memory
This fight goes back and forth. But you must admit that even though hard drives were are first preference, no one can beat a flash drive. Flash drives have gone through tough physical abuse and still are able to retrieve information that it held. So if your looking for portability and storage size. Check out flash drive prices before you move to hard drives. Also keep note that prices drop dramatically so be aware that a 1 gig flash drive is now under $25-.
6/26/06
Picasa for Linux
If your using Linux you may want to know that the famous google Picasa is now available for Linux users. It was a great idea for Google to offer Picasa and hopefully opening the doors for programs to make more Linux software available.
6/25/06
6/24/06
Microsoft sued over Genuine Advantage
Yes Microsoft Genuine Advantage is spyware and it's being installed on computers without users consent. I hope the people can win from this lawsuit.
6/23/06
Video Help
Have a video question and need to know how to resolve it. Well let's just say this site will be of some great help. Learn all the inside secrets you should be aware of and also how to fix those annoying video problems.
manz
manz
6/22/06
Fear Online Predators
If you fear online Predators you should check these sites out for useful tips:
Links
Cybertipline
Netsmartz
Microsoft At Home
Safeteens
Net Family News
Wired Safety
Net Safe Kids
Links
Cybertipline
Netsmartz
Microsoft At Home
Safeteens
Net Family News
Wired Safety
Net Safe Kids
6/21/06
Who wants to Rabble
I only wish they can do this for club goers and for live concerts. It's upsetting to get up, get dressed and be disappointed that things go wrong. At least if someone is letting you know what's going on. You will at least expect it and take the consequences before you decide to waste your money and time.
Hey why not do this for Traffic congestion in your own area - Rabble?
It's easy you sign up your cell phone and make a community service and have your friends do the same and everyone keeps updated on what's happening.
Hey why not do this for Traffic congestion in your own area - Rabble?
It's easy you sign up your cell phone and make a community service and have your friends do the same and everyone keeps updated on what's happening.
6/20/06
Flagr
Enjoy geographical tidbits among friend, then this is a site worth playing with.
You can post text messages with even pictures. I wonder why Google Maps didn't think of this?
You can post text messages with even pictures. I wonder why Google Maps didn't think of this?
6/19/06
A Small World
Here is another wanna bee Dating site who said that in order for you to be a member you must have someone in the membership to invite you. Who knows what they are selling and where they are trying to go with this site. But it's been told that they have famous celebrities as Paris Hilton and Naomi Campbell. But who really cares about this site. You figure with high profile names this would make this community service famous, but it's not and never is going to be. It's just another wanna bee myspace and wishes it had the red carpet treatment other site die to have.
6/18/06
My Death Space
If your a member of the famous Myspace community service you might as well check out My Death Space. It's where old dead web profile pages die. Myspace is definitely thinking beyond it's box and I must admit its a unique idea. But I wonder if you can contact someone from the dead and if it is possible to bring back a profile from the dead?
6/17/06
6/16/06
PayCycle
If your looking for a cheap payroll solution, PayCycle might be what your looking for. It's user friendly, cheap and affordable when compared to other payroll software's. Even though it's 1099's are pricey, it does get the job done.
Give it a try.
other Payroll alternatives:
Sure Payroll
Give it a try.
other Payroll alternatives:
Sure Payroll
6/15/06
Dwarf Date
Who said that little people don't have an online dating site. Little Dwarf is here to there rescue. At least little people now can find love too.
6/14/06
Comodo Personal Firewall
If your looking for a free firewall similar to Zone Alarm then take a look at Comodo. It knows which programs are safe and protects you like an ordinary firewall, plus it's free.
6/13/06
Get Ready for Farecast
Not in most areas yet. But sign up for email updates and when it does come in your areas it will guide you to find the cheapest air fare rates as prices go up and down. Now you know when to buy.
6/12/06
State of the Art Cooling
Take a look at the ultimate home cooling for your personal computer. If you want the ultimate than this might be a way to go.
6/11/06
Cell Phone Forums
If you have a cell phone and want to know all the hidden secrets. Well the forums are a great site to find out what's you are capable of doing. Your on your own if you decide to hack your phone but it can be rewarding.
Here is a well know cell phone forum.
Here is a well know cell phone forum.
6/10/06
Try Google Spreadsheet
The next office version is here. It's code name is Google Spreadsheet.
Only time will tell if this spreadsheet makes sense.
Only time will tell if this spreadsheet makes sense.
6/9/06
Take the Vista Beta 2 Tour
This is the closest Vista Beta Tour that shows off what Vista has in store for others. Click and use your mouse like Windows to open and see what's in Vista
6/8/06
Google Spreadsheet
Google just recently developed an open office spreadsheet and may one day be able to compete with Microsoft. The software is now no where near the current Microsoft office suite but it's a start for Google into the office market.
At least it's free.
At least it's free.
6/7/06
It's A Miracle - Self Cooling Beer
I don't know if it has already been finalized. But if this is true. Your beer can's will cool and freeze themselves. Hopefully satisfying anyone who wants a cold drink. I pray for this invention to work.
6/6/06
Attn: All Bellsouth DSL Customers
I recently have been keeping an eye on my current DSL subscription to find the following:
For the price of which I am currently paying for DSL $42.95, I can upgrade my plan and save an extra $5.00 by getting more speed for my money. I not only double my download speed two twice the speed but increase my upload speed to 72 Kbps. So evaluate your DSL package once your passed your anniversary rate from time to time.
I am just upset that Bellsouth didn't automatically adjust my bill accordingly and give me a better rate for my money. It suppose to be that if you pay more you get more. But in Bellsouth case, you pay more and get less. Go figure.
Bellsouth DSL rates as of 6/06
FastAccess DSL Lite
$24.95 per Month
Up to 256 Kbps Downstream
Up to 128 Kbps Upstream
5 E-mail Accounts
10 MB of E-mail Storage
10 MB of Personal Web Space
1 Backup Dial Account
Promotions Available
FastAccess DSL Ultra
$42.95 per Month
Up to 1.5 Mbps Downstream
Up to 256 Kbps Upstream
8 E-mail Accounts
250 MB of E-mail Storage
10 MB of Personal Web Space
1 Backup Dial Account
Promotions Available
FastAccess DSL Xtreme
$37.95 per Month
Up to 3.0 Mbps Downstream
Up to 384 Kbps Upstream
8 E-mail Accounts
250 MB of E-mail Storage
10 MB of Personal Web Space
1 Backup Dial Account
Promotions Available
For the price of which I am currently paying for DSL $42.95, I can upgrade my plan and save an extra $5.00 by getting more speed for my money. I not only double my download speed two twice the speed but increase my upload speed to 72 Kbps. So evaluate your DSL package once your passed your anniversary rate from time to time.
I am just upset that Bellsouth didn't automatically adjust my bill accordingly and give me a better rate for my money. It suppose to be that if you pay more you get more. But in Bellsouth case, you pay more and get less. Go figure.
Bellsouth DSL rates as of 6/06
FastAccess DSL Lite
$24.95 per Month
Up to 256 Kbps Downstream
Up to 128 Kbps Upstream
5 E-mail Accounts
10 MB of E-mail Storage
10 MB of Personal Web Space
1 Backup Dial Account
Promotions Available
FastAccess DSL Ultra
$42.95 per Month
Up to 1.5 Mbps Downstream
Up to 256 Kbps Upstream
8 E-mail Accounts
250 MB of E-mail Storage
10 MB of Personal Web Space
1 Backup Dial Account
Promotions Available
FastAccess DSL Xtreme
$37.95 per Month
Up to 3.0 Mbps Downstream
Up to 384 Kbps Upstream
8 E-mail Accounts
250 MB of E-mail Storage
10 MB of Personal Web Space
1 Backup Dial Account
Promotions Available
6/5/06
Upgrade your WiFi Antenna
Usually most brands just give you an extended antenna to increase the range. If this is still not doing the job or if your really not buying into buying long antennas to increase the range. Your best bet is to buy this Antenna Amplifier. It fits on almost all WiFi routers and promises to keep you connected to your wireless connections.
6/4/06
Save Songs on your Cell Phone
There is no need to pay to have songs downloaded on to your cell phone. There are so many software's to help you save money on phone perks that should be included with your service. Here is the simplest way to import music into your cell phone.
6/3/06
Still Free - Amazing Stunt
I've seen crazy stuff in my life. But this guy sure wants to be famous quickly. Not only was he able to get this close to Air Force One since 9/11. But he was able to Tagg it. Which means that any crazy terrorist today can do the same thing and possibly take it a little further. I am upset that something like this can be over looked. I hope that this video will wake up security measures.
6/2/06
Windows Live OneCare
Windows Live OneCare is another way Microsoft hopes to make another buck out of consumers. It automates backups, updates, firewall, antivirus, and antispyware. It hopes to cash in on other after market software that has been in circulation for sometime. The nice thing is that since it's Microsoft, you can easily bet you'll have no worries on that it will interrupt it's current operating system.
6/1/06
Family Friendly Locators
GPS tracking is getting better. Now you can track you children movements and where abouts without doing much. The phones built in GPS gives you, your child location in minutes. The only thing to worry from this product is the privacy issues. But at least you can track your kids.
5/31/06
Gmail Chat Sounds
Here is the link on how to disable Audio Chat from your Gmail Account. Gmail chat is automatically enabled. But if you want to disable the sound. Here is how you do it.
5/30/06
AOpen MiniPC
Looking to put a PC in a small area. But your problem is that a standard PC is just too big. AOpen MiniPC is here for you. Although it's cost is a little pricey. It's compatible to the Apple's Mini Mac.
Most of these units price depends on storage capacity and memory. So if you're just looking for a PC to play your favorite media or just browse online. This is a good pick.
Most of these units price depends on storage capacity and memory. So if you're just looking for a PC to play your favorite media or just browse online. This is a good pick.
5/29/06
X-Plane
This flight simulator software takes you to the most realistic scene in flying a plane online. Hopefully you'll get better flying the plane.
5/28/06
Online Backup Services
They've been out for sometime and depending on how valuable your information is on your hard drive. Every computer should be backed up. Anyone knows how horrible it is to loose your system backup. You not only have to start from scratch but have to remember all those programs that you once installed on your PC to re-install them again onto your computer. It's tedious and annoying. But one sure way you can cut down on the restoring process is to remember backing up. It saves you time and it might also save some of your files. Have a plan and remember to occasionally test your backups. It's better to backup that not to backup at all.
Mozy Remote - Free
Sos Online - Prem.
Spare Backup - Prem.
Data Deposit Box - Prem.
Mozy Remote - Free
Sos Online - Prem.
Spare Backup - Prem.
Data Deposit Box - Prem.
5/27/06
Inexpensive Business Cards
Try these site for inexpensive Business Cards and hopefully you save some money
GreatFx
Kinkos
Staples
Office Depot
GreatFx
Kinkos
Staples
Office Depot
5/26/06
The $100 Laptop
The MIT Geeks sure have an impressive $100- Laptop. Even though they are just suppose to be sold to schools. This might just change the future of Laptop pricing.
Direct Link
Direct Link
5/25/06
Office Beta 2007
It's not just for developers but for anyone who is interesting in checking out the new Office 2007 version. If you have time and can afford to play with the beta version. I suggest you try it and see if Office Beta is for you.
5/24/06
To Auto Update or Not to Auto Update
Here is an excellent article on Windows Auto Update that I wish to share to others.
So you decide if auto updating Microsoft is for you.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
To auto-update or not to auto-update
Brian Livingston By Brian Livingston
I published a Woody Leonhard column as the top story last issue while I was traveling, knowing that he's opinionated and always gets strong reactions. Well, he didn't disappoint me.
Reacting to several mistakes Microsoft made in its Automatic Updates downloads in April, Woody railed against Redmond's patching strategy, saying, "Windows auto-update is for chumps."
Woody made some very good points, which Microsoft has done nothing to rebut. There's an important lesson here. I'm going to use this space today to give you the best advice I've been able to pull together.
An April that will live in infamy
For those who don't know the details of what I call Microsoft's April Fool's patches, here's a quick recap, in increasing order of severity:
• An obscure hotfix for XP SP2 machines, patch 900485 from Dec. 2005, was downloaded as a "critical" security patch via Automatic Updates on Apr. 25, two weeks after Redmond's regular Patch Tuesday distribution. Almost no one needed this hotfix, although it seems to have done no harm. It was apparently inserted into the Automatic Updates mechanism by accident, according to some newsgroup comments, although Microsoft still hasn't explained the gaffe.
• Security bulletin MS06-016, released on Apr. 11, made it impossible for some users of Microsoft's free Outlook Express e-mail program to open their Address Books or reply to e-mails. Microsoft acknowledged this on Apr. 26 and published Knowledge Base article 917288. The company describes how to backup, delete, and then import the Address Book to fix OE. But Redmond, six weeks later, hasn't issued a corrected MS06-016 patch to save people from having the problem in the first place.
• MS06-015 , released on the same Patch Tuesday as MS06-016, conflicted with widely used nVidia video drivers, some HP printer/scanner/CD/DVD software, Kerio Personal Firewall, and some other applications, as described in KB 918165. The problem caused Microsoft Office components and some other apps to freeze when accessing files in My Documents or My Pictures, interfered with Windows Explorer and Send To, and prevented Internet Explorer from visiting typed-in Web addresses unless they were prefixed with http. The security bulletin was re-released on Apr. 25 so users could install a version that corrects the problems.
• Windows Genuine Advantage, a Microsoft program that checks Windows installations for valid licenses, was pushed out as a "critical" security update to the U.S., U.K., Australia, and other countries beginning on Apr. 25. It's impossible to use Add/Remove Programs to remove the GA app, which displays warnings (once per hour after 14 days) if the software considers a copy of Windows to be nonlicensed. (Microsoft explains in KB 905474 how to disable the warnings until the next update is installed.)
I consider the surprise Genuine Advantage downloads to be the most severe blunder. Microsoft had previously said the tool would be strictly opt-in, but the midnight installs flooded some companies' help desks with calls from panicked users. No one expects Microsoft to give away its products for free. No responsible company, however, slams its biggest, most legitimate customers with a change of this magnitude with little or no notice other than a press release the day before.
In the face of the missteps described above, Microsoft has said almost nothing by way of explanation. The Redmond company is filled with thousands of talented and well-meaning developers, but they don't drive the corporation's policy in this area. After several inquiries seeking comment, a Microsoft spokeswoman told me: "Unfortunately, we are unable to provide you with an interview at this time due to lack of spokesperson availability."
I've previously said that home users of Windows (as opposed to advanced users) should keep Automatic Updates turned on. That was because Microsoft assured the public that Automatic Updates would only be used to distribute security updates rated as "critical." Microsoft's abuse of its security upgrade mechanism to stealthily install Genuine Advantage, in addition to April's outrageously buggy patches, is inexcusable. It's clear that corporate executives have made a deliberate decision to use Automatic Updates to install software that benefits the company, whether or not it helps users or has any relationship to users' security.
Pros update manually, novices automatically
Because of the April Fool's patches, I want to clarify my recommendations on who should keep Automatic Updates turned on and who should use the Control Panel to turn it off.
• Advanced users (including companies with full-time IT staff) should never use Automatic Updates. Professionals should first test Microsoft patches — and every other company's patches — on isolated machines. Read the free and paid versions of the Windows Secrets Newsletter that are published 2 days after Patch Tuesday with warnings of problems. Then use patch-management techniques to carefully install the needed upgrades to end users.
• Novice users, who can't or won't read up on reported patch problems before updating their machines, should leave Automatic Updates turned on. Beginners have a greater risk of catching a virus than they do of encountering a serious patch incompatibility.
Some advanced users may disagree with my recommendation that novices should leave Automatic Updates turned on. If you're the main tech support for a newbie, I'd say you can disable AU if a PC has the four items in our recommended Security Baseline ( below), which provides good general security. Patches should still be installed manually within a few days of release, after you check news reports for potential conflicts.
Supporting Grandma's PC means auto-update
We received many comments supportive of Woody's distrust of Automatic Updates, which he's been publicly stating for years. We can give you only a overview here of the positive and negative reactions. As a representative of those who dispute Woody's view, reader Dave Nickason writes:
* "It is irresponsible for Woody to argue for people to turn off AU unless he wants to be the one supporting the unpatched machines of all of our parents, grandparents, and siblings. Some novice PC user like my 81-year old Dad will take that advice, never patch again, and I'll be left to reinstall Windows when his system quits working."
I have to agree that Windows amateurs, which probably includes the majority of Windows users, won't update their PCs unless it's done for them automatically. Given the latest round of MS mistakes, people who support relatives' PCs will have to accept that auto-updates may eventually cause some conflict that requires time to unravel. But this will probably be a less serious problem than dealing with an unpatched machine that's caught hard-to-remove viruses.
Microsoft is a business, get used to it
Other readers also made a distinction between novices and power users, while not applauding Microsoft for its behavior. Reader Kevin Gagel writes:
* "I'm writing in response to Woody Leonhard's article about Micro$oft's automatic updates.
"While I agree in principle with Woody's assessment of M$'s trustworthiness, I cannot agree with disabling the auto-update feature.
"I've witnessed first hand the benefit of having it enabled, as well as seeing how it can fail us.
"None the less, I have witnessed far more 'good' (I shudder to think M$ can do good) then bad by updating systems automatically.
"What users out there have the ability to 'test' a patch before applying it? What users out there will 'know' when it is the right time to apply a patch?
"Since M$'s activation of what they call a firewall, I've witnessed a huge reduction of viruses being e-mailed to us.
"Leaving systems vulnerable because of someone's incompetence is not the answer. Woody should know that there is a larger number of technically inept end users then there are technically savvy.
"I think that Woody could have done a better job (and justice to the end users) if he'd presented a better balanced position of pros and cons instead of just espousing his nonconspiracy conspiracy theory.
"M$ is and allways has been a business looking to make a buck. It will do whatever it takes to protect that, including pushing noncritical "critical patches" that verify the system is not running a bootleg copy of Windoze."
In the view of this reader and other readers, Microsoft has spent many years building up a capacity to install software automatically, and it can only be expected that the software giant will use it for business advantage .
Do one thing at work, another at home
A different opinion was provided by those who are required to auto-update by work policies, but disable Automatic Updates on personal machines, to which they're willing to devote more care. A reader who goes by the name Ralphy writes:
* "Unfortunately, some of us don't have the luxury of a corporate environment. I work for a Department of Defense unit and must have our boxes patched within a certain time frame. It is impossible for our office to be able to 'test,' then patch. We have too many boxes stretched over a large area.
"If it weren't for automatic updates, we would be spending a lot more time doing updates rather than other mission-essential items. I do agree that last round was bad, but out of 500 machines only 3 were bothered by the update that you spoke of. Those were the only ones we had to fix.
"Having said all of that, at home, I do the opposite. I wait for 2 weeks before I run the updates manually. I'll let the rest of the world be Microsoft's test bed and see what works and what doesn't.
"However, I still rated it a good article but not for the business world."
This underscores the theme of, "Those who can, patch manually. Those who can't, patch automatically."
Why Security Baseline recommends MS Update
A few readers questioned two lines in our Security Baseline that recommend using Microsoft Update for MS software and whatever auto-update features other vendors' software may have. Reader Russell Atwood writes:
* "In issue 75, I found it humorous to have a long article from Woody Leonhard on the trials and tribulations of Windows Automatic Update (don't let it happen to you), and in the Security Baseline, instruct customers to do exactly what Mr. Leonhard says don't do (turn on Automatic Update).
I understand both sides, but it still makes me smile with the irony of it.
Great newsletter, keep up the good work."
The Security Baseline actually never mentions Windows' Automatic Updates. It says, "Individual users should opt into the new, free Microsoft Update, an improvement over Windows Update." Both Microsoft Update and the older Windows Update allow AU to be enabled, disabled, or set to "notify only," as you please.
To make myself perfectly clear, I'm adding to the Security Baseline a recommendation that advanced users disable AU and study the latest copy of this newsletter before installing any Patch Tuesday upgrades.
Norton Internet Security imposes auto-updates
Norton Internet Security, a software security suite, complains and asserts control over auto-updates if users choose manual updates instead. Reader John Lambert writes:
* "My Norton Security flags me that I have 1 'problem' affecting my system when I take Woody's advice to select a button other than the option to take auto-update. Should I worry about this?"
This is surely a harmless warning, although irritating. A more serious dificulty is that NIS can change Windows' auto-update settings without notifying you. A reader by the name of Scott writes:
* "Turning off Windows' auto-update may not be enough to prevent a nasty update surprise. Those who use Norton Internet Security should be aware that Norton will automatically turn on Windows' Automatic Updates unless you turn off automantic updates in Norton. You will continue to get Windows' Automatic Updates downloaded and installed whether you like it or not.
Turn off automatic updates in Windows and Norton if you want any hope of control over updates."
Again, my advice is that novices should auto-update, which includes auto-updating Norton Internet Security and other security software. Everyone else should learn to read up on patch problems and then install new patches manually within a few days of their release.
The readers named above will receive a gift certificate for a book, CD, or DVD of their choice for sending me comments that I printed. To send more information about auto-updates, or to send a tip on any other subject, visit WindowsSecrets.com/contact.
So you decide if auto updating Microsoft is for you.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
To auto-update or not to auto-update
Brian Livingston By Brian Livingston
I published a Woody Leonhard column as the top story last issue while I was traveling, knowing that he's opinionated and always gets strong reactions. Well, he didn't disappoint me.
Reacting to several mistakes Microsoft made in its Automatic Updates downloads in April, Woody railed against Redmond's patching strategy, saying, "Windows auto-update is for chumps."
Woody made some very good points, which Microsoft has done nothing to rebut. There's an important lesson here. I'm going to use this space today to give you the best advice I've been able to pull together.
An April that will live in infamy
For those who don't know the details of what I call Microsoft's April Fool's patches, here's a quick recap, in increasing order of severity:
• An obscure hotfix for XP SP2 machines, patch 900485 from Dec. 2005, was downloaded as a "critical" security patch via Automatic Updates on Apr. 25, two weeks after Redmond's regular Patch Tuesday distribution. Almost no one needed this hotfix, although it seems to have done no harm. It was apparently inserted into the Automatic Updates mechanism by accident, according to some newsgroup comments, although Microsoft still hasn't explained the gaffe.
• Security bulletin MS06-016, released on Apr. 11, made it impossible for some users of Microsoft's free Outlook Express e-mail program to open their Address Books or reply to e-mails. Microsoft acknowledged this on Apr. 26 and published Knowledge Base article 917288. The company describes how to backup, delete, and then import the Address Book to fix OE. But Redmond, six weeks later, hasn't issued a corrected MS06-016 patch to save people from having the problem in the first place.
• MS06-015 , released on the same Patch Tuesday as MS06-016, conflicted with widely used nVidia video drivers, some HP printer/scanner/CD/DVD software, Kerio Personal Firewall, and some other applications, as described in KB 918165. The problem caused Microsoft Office components and some other apps to freeze when accessing files in My Documents or My Pictures, interfered with Windows Explorer and Send To, and prevented Internet Explorer from visiting typed-in Web addresses unless they were prefixed with http. The security bulletin was re-released on Apr. 25 so users could install a version that corrects the problems.
• Windows Genuine Advantage, a Microsoft program that checks Windows installations for valid licenses, was pushed out as a "critical" security update to the U.S., U.K., Australia, and other countries beginning on Apr. 25. It's impossible to use Add/Remove Programs to remove the GA app, which displays warnings (once per hour after 14 days) if the software considers a copy of Windows to be nonlicensed. (Microsoft explains in KB 905474 how to disable the warnings until the next update is installed.)
I consider the surprise Genuine Advantage downloads to be the most severe blunder. Microsoft had previously said the tool would be strictly opt-in, but the midnight installs flooded some companies' help desks with calls from panicked users. No one expects Microsoft to give away its products for free. No responsible company, however, slams its biggest, most legitimate customers with a change of this magnitude with little or no notice other than a press release the day before.
In the face of the missteps described above, Microsoft has said almost nothing by way of explanation. The Redmond company is filled with thousands of talented and well-meaning developers, but they don't drive the corporation's policy in this area. After several inquiries seeking comment, a Microsoft spokeswoman told me: "Unfortunately, we are unable to provide you with an interview at this time due to lack of spokesperson availability."
I've previously said that home users of Windows (as opposed to advanced users) should keep Automatic Updates turned on. That was because Microsoft assured the public that Automatic Updates would only be used to distribute security updates rated as "critical." Microsoft's abuse of its security upgrade mechanism to stealthily install Genuine Advantage, in addition to April's outrageously buggy patches, is inexcusable. It's clear that corporate executives have made a deliberate decision to use Automatic Updates to install software that benefits the company, whether or not it helps users or has any relationship to users' security.
Pros update manually, novices automatically
Because of the April Fool's patches, I want to clarify my recommendations on who should keep Automatic Updates turned on and who should use the Control Panel to turn it off.
• Advanced users (including companies with full-time IT staff) should never use Automatic Updates. Professionals should first test Microsoft patches — and every other company's patches — on isolated machines. Read the free and paid versions of the Windows Secrets Newsletter that are published 2 days after Patch Tuesday with warnings of problems. Then use patch-management techniques to carefully install the needed upgrades to end users.
• Novice users, who can't or won't read up on reported patch problems before updating their machines, should leave Automatic Updates turned on. Beginners have a greater risk of catching a virus than they do of encountering a serious patch incompatibility.
Some advanced users may disagree with my recommendation that novices should leave Automatic Updates turned on. If you're the main tech support for a newbie, I'd say you can disable AU if a PC has the four items in our recommended Security Baseline ( below), which provides good general security. Patches should still be installed manually within a few days of release, after you check news reports for potential conflicts.
Supporting Grandma's PC means auto-update
We received many comments supportive of Woody's distrust of Automatic Updates, which he's been publicly stating for years. We can give you only a overview here of the positive and negative reactions. As a representative of those who dispute Woody's view, reader Dave Nickason writes:
* "It is irresponsible for Woody to argue for people to turn off AU unless he wants to be the one supporting the unpatched machines of all of our parents, grandparents, and siblings. Some novice PC user like my 81-year old Dad will take that advice, never patch again, and I'll be left to reinstall Windows when his system quits working."
I have to agree that Windows amateurs, which probably includes the majority of Windows users, won't update their PCs unless it's done for them automatically. Given the latest round of MS mistakes, people who support relatives' PCs will have to accept that auto-updates may eventually cause some conflict that requires time to unravel. But this will probably be a less serious problem than dealing with an unpatched machine that's caught hard-to-remove viruses.
Microsoft is a business, get used to it
Other readers also made a distinction between novices and power users, while not applauding Microsoft for its behavior. Reader Kevin Gagel writes:
* "I'm writing in response to Woody Leonhard's article about Micro$oft's automatic updates.
"While I agree in principle with Woody's assessment of M$'s trustworthiness, I cannot agree with disabling the auto-update feature.
"I've witnessed first hand the benefit of having it enabled, as well as seeing how it can fail us.
"None the less, I have witnessed far more 'good' (I shudder to think M$ can do good) then bad by updating systems automatically.
"What users out there have the ability to 'test' a patch before applying it? What users out there will 'know' when it is the right time to apply a patch?
"Since M$'s activation of what they call a firewall, I've witnessed a huge reduction of viruses being e-mailed to us.
"Leaving systems vulnerable because of someone's incompetence is not the answer. Woody should know that there is a larger number of technically inept end users then there are technically savvy.
"I think that Woody could have done a better job (and justice to the end users) if he'd presented a better balanced position of pros and cons instead of just espousing his nonconspiracy conspiracy theory.
"M$ is and allways has been a business looking to make a buck. It will do whatever it takes to protect that, including pushing noncritical "critical patches" that verify the system is not running a bootleg copy of Windoze."
In the view of this reader and other readers, Microsoft has spent many years building up a capacity to install software automatically, and it can only be expected that the software giant will use it for business advantage .
Do one thing at work, another at home
A different opinion was provided by those who are required to auto-update by work policies, but disable Automatic Updates on personal machines, to which they're willing to devote more care. A reader who goes by the name Ralphy writes:
* "Unfortunately, some of us don't have the luxury of a corporate environment. I work for a Department of Defense unit and must have our boxes patched within a certain time frame. It is impossible for our office to be able to 'test,' then patch. We have too many boxes stretched over a large area.
"If it weren't for automatic updates, we would be spending a lot more time doing updates rather than other mission-essential items. I do agree that last round was bad, but out of 500 machines only 3 were bothered by the update that you spoke of. Those were the only ones we had to fix.
"Having said all of that, at home, I do the opposite. I wait for 2 weeks before I run the updates manually. I'll let the rest of the world be Microsoft's test bed and see what works and what doesn't.
"However, I still rated it a good article but not for the business world."
This underscores the theme of, "Those who can, patch manually. Those who can't, patch automatically."
Why Security Baseline recommends MS Update
A few readers questioned two lines in our Security Baseline that recommend using Microsoft Update for MS software and whatever auto-update features other vendors' software may have. Reader Russell Atwood writes:
* "In issue 75, I found it humorous to have a long article from Woody Leonhard on the trials and tribulations of Windows Automatic Update (don't let it happen to you), and in the Security Baseline, instruct customers to do exactly what Mr. Leonhard says don't do (turn on Automatic Update).
I understand both sides, but it still makes me smile with the irony of it.
Great newsletter, keep up the good work."
The Security Baseline actually never mentions Windows' Automatic Updates. It says, "Individual users should opt into the new, free Microsoft Update, an improvement over Windows Update." Both Microsoft Update and the older Windows Update allow AU to be enabled, disabled, or set to "notify only," as you please.
To make myself perfectly clear, I'm adding to the Security Baseline a recommendation that advanced users disable AU and study the latest copy of this newsletter before installing any Patch Tuesday upgrades.
Norton Internet Security imposes auto-updates
Norton Internet Security, a software security suite, complains and asserts control over auto-updates if users choose manual updates instead. Reader John Lambert writes:
* "My Norton Security flags me that I have 1 'problem' affecting my system when I take Woody's advice to select a button other than the option to take auto-update. Should I worry about this?"
This is surely a harmless warning, although irritating. A more serious dificulty is that NIS can change Windows' auto-update settings without notifying you. A reader by the name of Scott writes:
* "Turning off Windows' auto-update may not be enough to prevent a nasty update surprise. Those who use Norton Internet Security should be aware that Norton will automatically turn on Windows' Automatic Updates unless you turn off automantic updates in Norton. You will continue to get Windows' Automatic Updates downloaded and installed whether you like it or not.
Turn off automatic updates in Windows and Norton if you want any hope of control over updates."
Again, my advice is that novices should auto-update, which includes auto-updating Norton Internet Security and other security software. Everyone else should learn to read up on patch problems and then install new patches manually within a few days of their release.
The readers named above will receive a gift certificate for a book, CD, or DVD of their choice for sending me comments that I printed. To send more information about auto-updates, or to send a tip on any other subject, visit WindowsSecrets.com/contact.
5/23/06
Patch a Cat 5 Cable
Need an Ethernet connection to connect multiple PC's at home. Save some money by patching some Cat 5 cable. It can be a pain because your going to need cable crimps and Cat 5 plugs. But it's nothing that you can get at your local Lowes or Home Depot store. Usually you only need 4 cables to patch a connection. But if you really want to patch the cable correctly here is how to do it. Now you can wire your home the way you want easily.
Ps: Cat 6 is better shielded and you may want to pay an extra penny to get better reliable connection.
Ps: Cat 6 is better shielded and you may want to pay an extra penny to get better reliable connection.
5/22/06
Resize any Picture Online
If you have a picture that you need to resize. Check out this online resizing site to change your picture to a more acceptable size. It's free and if you still need more cropping software to edit your pictures. Make sure you do a google search for cropping pictures online. You'll be amazed on how many site you'll find for free.
5/21/06
Need a Tivo like software for your PC
Take a look at Snap Stream Software for your PC.
It makes it easy compatible with other playback devices such as your pocket PC, TV or wireless network. Watch TV where ever you go.
It makes it easy compatible with other playback devices such as your pocket PC, TV or wireless network. Watch TV where ever you go.
5/20/06
Canon SD430 - Wireless Digital Camera
Here is a camera with class. Not only is it a 5 Megapixel Camera it's connects wirelessly to your 802.11b devices. Get a hold of a new generation of cameras to come in the future. How nice will it be to easily print a picture you just took wireless via your camera. This is just the beginning of more camera like this one to be developed in the future.
5/19/06
Office Online - The New Generation
Today there are several new online office software that will change the future of office applications. Is it's worth the expense, well that's up to you. But there is no stopping what they are prepared to do to sell you that monthly premium. No more bug's, conflicts and no service pak updates to worry about. Only time will tell if it's an investment for you.
JotSpot
Hyperoffice
Microsoft Office Live
WebEx
Writely
JotSpot
Hyperoffice
Microsoft Office Live
WebEx
Writely
5/18/06
5/17/06
Security with Absolute
Afraid of your laptop, PDA or cell phone going into the wrong hands. This software is your protection. Whether its your local thief or a dishonest employee. When a laptop, PDA or cell phone is lost or stolen. Just logon to Absolute and the item is history. The software can not be un installed and all valuable information is deleted upon request. Plus the software works in invisible mode and could later on help you catch that thief. Never fear about every loosing another item again.
5/16/06
Access files Everywhere
A while back I suggest a link named LogMeIn to access your files anywhere. This site does the same thing and it's also free. I love the freebees and accessing your PC should be a next generation thing and I just hope things remain free forever.
Your computer is your personal library and address book and how nice it would be to easily remotely access it everywhere.
Your computer is your personal library and address book and how nice it would be to easily remotely access it everywhere.
5/15/06
Maps for Mobile
Need directions and don't have time to write down or print out your directions.
Maps for mobile is a new development that gives your the upper hand in making traveling easier for anyone. Yahoo has also incorporated this technology but the software works only with some mobile phones for now. Hopefully the trend will make the software user friendly to all phones in the future.
Maps for mobile is a new development that gives your the upper hand in making traveling easier for anyone. Yahoo has also incorporated this technology but the software works only with some mobile phones for now. Hopefully the trend will make the software user friendly to all phones in the future.
5/14/06
CellStik
Want to import contacts to another phone. Try Cellstik.
Cellstik will have more upgrades in the months to come but the convenience is that you can save your contacts from one phone and transfer it to another phone.
The old bad thing about it is that if your upgrading to a different manufacture, your out of luck but have no choice but to buy another Cellstik to make it work, hopefully there will be a fix for this in the future.
Easy, Fast and reliable.
Cellstik will have more upgrades in the months to come but the convenience is that you can save your contacts from one phone and transfer it to another phone.
The old bad thing about it is that if your upgrading to a different manufacture, your out of luck but have no choice but to buy another Cellstik to make it work, hopefully there will be a fix for this in the future.
Easy, Fast and reliable.
5/13/06
Wifi Security Simplified
Looking for a simple Wifi Security system for your home network. This software guarantees just that with a subscription fee. It not only protects you of unwanted intruders but automates windows updates. Too bad no antivirus software is not included. But you can always download the basic version and see if this service works with your home network.
5/12/06
Samsung Blackberry t719
It's about time.
Samsung has integrated the Blackberry and cell phone together so get ready to see copycats from major manufactures. You not only can ditch your blackberry but it will be integrated with your cell phone now and it will be easier to carry.
The keyboard is compressed but this is the start of something more beautiful to come.
Samsung has integrated the Blackberry and cell phone together so get ready to see copycats from major manufactures. You not only can ditch your blackberry but it will be integrated with your cell phone now and it will be easier to carry.
The keyboard is compressed but this is the start of something more beautiful to come.
5/11/06
Pre-N Routers To Buy or Not to Buy
If your looking to buy Pre-N Routers here some information that you should remember.
Right now companies like D-Link and Linksys are developing Routers with Pre-N Specs that have yet to be finalized. If you do buy now a Pre-N Router you might be out of luck when the standards are finalized. There might not be upgraded via firmware and might have to buy another Pre-N Router in the long run.
These companies are producing products that yet have to meet with other Pre-N products that will marketable in the future. So your more likely will be forced to buy another finalized Pre-N products to work with other Pre-N products.
My main point is that you should wait until everything is finalized otherwise your just throwing your money away.
Right now companies like D-Link and Linksys are developing Routers with Pre-N Specs that have yet to be finalized. If you do buy now a Pre-N Router you might be out of luck when the standards are finalized. There might not be upgraded via firmware and might have to buy another Pre-N Router in the long run.
These companies are producing products that yet have to meet with other Pre-N products that will marketable in the future. So your more likely will be forced to buy another finalized Pre-N products to work with other Pre-N products.
My main point is that you should wait until everything is finalized otherwise your just throwing your money away.
5/10/06
Get Ready for LaLa
The new music like Napster service lets users trade CD's on the cheap and recommend albums in a new way. Register now and wait for launch in July. But it caters to your needs by comparing it with your current music selection. The more you list the more you get. You trade CD's with other LaLa members similar to the Netflix for movies.
Will the site be successful, depends on how people use the service. But it's a satisfying service for the still young music service world.
Will the site be successful, depends on how people use the service. But it's a satisfying service for the still young music service world.
5/9/06
Learn How to Play in the Casinos
Here is a great site to learn how to play all those great games they have in the Casinos. It's free and you learn the tricks from the pros. Be ahead make sure you know how to play.
5/8/06
Seen an article but Can't Find it
Hopefully this site will help you end your search and find that missing article your dying to read.
manz
manz
5/7/06
Directory of open access Journals
If you love Journals than this is a great bookmark site to save.
Sit back and enjoy your Journal directory.
Sit back and enjoy your Journal directory.
5/6/06
My Date with Drew
With all the documentaries out there. Who would every think of doing a documentary of going out with Drew. For starters the web site and publicity will go on for as long as it can go on. Great way to start a small business from scratch. Who could figure this would ever work.
So remember the secret to making money is out there. All you need is a good plan.
So remember the secret to making money is out there. All you need is a good plan.
5/5/06
Gmail Email Services Done Easier
In the past I showed you have to setup Gmail via Outlook.
So here is it again.
If your currently using Gmail and want to incorporate this email client with your Outlook software it's as easy as 1,2,3.
Gmail making a better tomorrow.
Don't forget to check out other Gmail services
Gmail Services
So here is it again.
If your currently using Gmail and want to incorporate this email client with your Outlook software it's as easy as 1,2,3.
Gmail making a better tomorrow.
Don't forget to check out other Gmail services
Gmail Services
5/4/06
Microsoft Anti Piracy
If you have a pirated Windows update CD. Your choices are limited. Not only will windows verify if you have a legal copy but it will prevent you in some cases from downloading some of there software's. They insist that all software patches will be available to pirated version but don't believe that, it's just another excuse for them to setup a patch to eventually force you to buy a legal license.
My suggestion to you is try to buy a legal second hand copy from a trusted friend. You can also save the license key from a computer you recently upgraded to and install the license on the pirated PC.
Vista is not far off and remember, when a new operating system just comes out. Microsoft prices drop and it's a great time to buy.
My suggestion to you is try to buy a legal second hand copy from a trusted friend. You can also save the license key from a computer you recently upgraded to and install the license on the pirated PC.
Vista is not far off and remember, when a new operating system just comes out. Microsoft prices drop and it's a great time to buy.
5/3/06
Fix Picture Problem In Email
This is a common cause in emails and if your using outlook or Outlook Express, this is what you need to do.
In Outlook Express -> Select options from tools menu -> click the tab that said Send -> Html Settings -> Put a check in the box labeled Send pictures with messages -> Click Ok
Now when you send someone an email they will get the pictures as well. They must also do the same so that you will be able to see the pictures.
In Outlook Express -> Select options from tools menu -> click the tab that said Send -> Html Settings -> Put a check in the box labeled Send pictures with messages -> Click Ok
Now when you send someone an email they will get the pictures as well. They must also do the same so that you will be able to see the pictures.
5/2/06
Get rid of your Windows Boot Screen
This is a simple Windows hack that you might have to do over every time you do a windows update. But if you can't stand seeing that Windows logon screen here you go.
Go to start -> run -> type MSCONFIG -> in the system configuration utility go to Boot.ini and check on /NOGUIBOOT and restart computer. Now your windows login will not appear save you 2 seconds of boot up time.
Make sure you do not touch anything else. The Boot.ini if done incorrectly will cause problems. So get rid of your Windows boot screen and get on with your life.
Go to start -> run -> type MSCONFIG -> in the system configuration utility go to Boot.ini and check on /NOGUIBOOT and restart computer. Now your windows login will not appear save you 2 seconds of boot up time.
Make sure you do not touch anything else. The Boot.ini if done incorrectly will cause problems. So get rid of your Windows boot screen and get on with your life.
5/1/06
4/30/06
ScanR Documents
Ever wonder how people are able to take a picture from a document using a camera phone and be able to convert and make readable like the actual document.
Well you've found that site. It's as easy as taking the pictures, editing the document and emailing it to yourself. Now at least you ahead of everyone else who doesn't have the ability to understand how they do this.
Well you've found that site. It's as easy as taking the pictures, editing the document and emailing it to yourself. Now at least you ahead of everyone else who doesn't have the ability to understand how they do this.
4/29/06
Unlocked GSM Phones
Here is a great site to buy any type of unlocked cellular GSM phone for any service provider. The only drawbacks are that not all of your features may function properly. I just wish manufactures would give the consumer the opportunity to decide what type or model that want. It is your phone!
4/28/06
Google calendar
Have Google well get ready for Google Calendar. Similar to Yahoo Calendar and you better believe that Yahoo will retaliate on taking its Calendar to the next step.
4/27/06
Yahoo Beta Maps
Lets just say that the Beta Version is in good competition with Google maps and now you can get your driving directions emailed to your phone as easy as the way your print your driving directions. Easy, fast, reliable. Try it.
4/26/06
IRS wants your PayPal Account
If you have been using PayPal Account to hide extra income. You've better think again.
IRS is aware of this tax heaven and its having PayPal hand over accounts in excess of reserves. So much for the PayPal plan.
IRS is aware of this tax heaven and its having PayPal hand over accounts in excess of reserves. So much for the PayPal plan.
4/25/06
Html Table on the fly
If you need to create an Html table for your web page.
Here is a fast way to do this.
Your web page will be online in no time.
Here is a fast way to do this.
Your web page will be online in no time.
4/24/06
Mystery Shopper Application
Heard of being a mystery shopper. Well it's all true. As per my friends it takes a while to get started with the program but they will occasionally send you emails and when an assignment comes around that your interested you do it.
Devote yourself to a better life. Join the mystery shopper program.
Devote yourself to a better life. Join the mystery shopper program.
4/23/06
Snobby French Post Cards
Hey I know it's snobby but regardless I still love the French Women.
Send your favorite snobbish eCard to the one you like the most.
Send your favorite snobbish eCard to the one you like the most.
4/22/06
4/21/06
Google Romance
First there was Adam and then came Eve.
Google figures since it's out there why not make a Love & Dating match making site.
I guess they're trying to see if they can profit from sites like Myspace and Friendster. Now I can find a Google date.
Google figures since it's out there why not make a Love & Dating match making site.
I guess they're trying to see if they can profit from sites like Myspace and Friendster. Now I can find a Google date.
4/20/06
More Myspace Layouts
If your a member of the Myspace community hurry up and sign up to be on.
It's a great place to find friends and view new groups.
In the meantime here are great mySpace tips for having that great page when visitors come and vist.
It's a great place to find friends and view new groups.
In the meantime here are great mySpace tips for having that great page when visitors come and vist.
4/19/06
Which is the Best Movie
Want to go to the movies and watch something that everyone is watching, or talking about. Better yet don't want to go to the movies to see another bomb movie that you should of waited to see at Blockbuster. Well here is a great site for your eyes.
Movie Chart. It gives you the listing of the top watched movies that weekend. Giving you insight on what movie you should go and see.
Here is another link
Movies
Movie Chart. It gives you the listing of the top watched movies that weekend. Giving you insight on what movie you should go and see.
Here is another link
Movies
4/18/06
PlayStation 3 Pricing
The New PlayStation 3 Price is quite steep. I don't know who or how many purchasers will be willing to cough up a PS3 at the same price as a computer. For what it's worth I believe that your better off buying a computer than to spend so much for a game console that only can play games. Sony should know better.
4/17/06
My Humps Blog Template
Here's is a nice blog with extra perks. I love the creativity and love the music activated browser. You minimize the browser and the music stops. You maximize the browser and yes your music begins. Good idea for those annoying music playing websites that just will not stop.
4/16/06
I want my Radio Blog
What's a radio blog. Simple a radio in a blog. Pick the song you want to play and click on it. It loads and presto your radio blog plays.
Here's a sample of how it works Radio Blog Sample
Here's a sample of how it works Radio Blog Sample
4/15/06
Yahoo! 360° - My Page
Here's a great RSS tip for finding the best deals in flights and vacations.
Get a RSS reader at Yahoo or Google and subscribe to your favorite travel deal site like Orbitz, Travelcity, and Sidestep. Then when you need a good travel deal. Just check those RSS sites that you have created and you'll get a bargain everytime you travel.
Get a RSS reader at Yahoo or Google and subscribe to your favorite travel deal site like Orbitz, Travelcity, and Sidestep. Then when you need a good travel deal. Just check those RSS sites that you have created and you'll get a bargain everytime you travel.
4/14/06
Microsoft Virtual Server vs. Linux
Let's just say Linux better be ready now to prove that it's better than Microsoft. Otherwise the winner will just swallow all of Linux technological ideas.
4/13/06
Flock
Say hello to a new open source browser.
It's still buggy but it's open source and hopefully it will be another Firefox.
It's still buggy but it's open source and hopefully it will be another Firefox.
4/12/06
File your Tax Return Electronic for Free
Yes you can file your Federal tax return for free. You'll have to create an account with Turbo tax and make sure that you have made under $50,000-. For some people it will be free for others you've guessed it you will be charged. But regardless if you don't mind using Turbo Tax you can avoid paying for any extras.
Make sure you check out my Tax Link to print forms that you file so that you don't pay for a print copy of your return. It's easy, simple and affordable.
For more free IRS tax Link websites visit my Tax page.
Make sure you check out my Tax Link to print forms that you file so that you don't pay for a print copy of your return. It's easy, simple and affordable.
For more free IRS tax Link websites visit my Tax page.
4/11/06
Space Travelers
Enjoy next generation films. Like those galaxy games. Here is an interesting space link for you to keep you entertained.
4/10/06
TextAmerica Photo Printer
If you have been already using textamerica to upload your pictures from your camera phone or camera. This site will be of great interest to you. You now can make a photo album of all your pictures you've uploaded to textamerica. It lets you pick the pictures you want and at the end you have all the pictures you have taken printed to a poster giving you a collage of pictures you choose. I am glad to see that textamerica is taking it serious to move from hosting pictures to photo printing. It's a step in the right direction.
4/9/06
Anytime Traffic
Recently got a speeding ticket. Or received a ticket for something that was not fair. It's time for Traffic school. This website helps you take your required 8 hour course to help you reduce your fine and remove your points.
You take the course online and hand in the certificate with your fine to remove your points. Works differently with other states but it sure great to know that you now can take your eight hour class at your convenience as long as you meet your class deadline.
You take the course online and hand in the certificate with your fine to remove your points. Works differently with other states but it sure great to know that you now can take your eight hour class at your convenience as long as you meet your class deadline.
4/8/06
Fake Resume
The truth is that if you ever want to get ahead in life. It's best to make sure you cover your assets. A site worth viewing.
4/7/06
College Campusfood.com
In school and need to order food from your dorm.
Check out Campusfood nice idea but will just see how long it works.
Check out Campusfood nice idea but will just see how long it works.
4/6/06
Download Install Full Version of IE6
If you are trying to install Windows updates on a non internet PC or on a dial up PC. It may take forever unless you can do it with another PC with broadband access. But how do you download the full updates. That's simple but you have to go back to the basics. Follow these instructions and life will be easier.
You then will have to go to your c drive -> find a folder named Windows -> and view contents and search for another file called -> Windows Update Setup Files. These files have to be copied and put on a CD so that you can install it on your PC that needs the current update. Remember you can do all of your Windows update this way.
You then will have to go to your c drive -> find a folder named Windows -> and view contents and search for another file called -> Windows Update Setup Files. These files have to be copied and put on a CD so that you can install it on your PC that needs the current update. Remember you can do all of your Windows update this way.
4/5/06
4/4/06
My WAN IP - IP Address
If you need to locate your IP address to connect a webcam or nannycam.
This site will give you just that to make sure your ip address is a private.
This site will give you just that to make sure your ip address is a private.
4/3/06
3am Labs - Innovation at Any Hour.
Travel a lot? Want to log into your computer at anytime but don't want to pay for that service. Simple just use Logmein and you can just do that. If you need to file sync and synchronizing you have to purchase the Pro version. But nothing tells you that you can't easily email that particular file or IM that file to you.
4/2/06
Tivo new monthly rates
If you love what Tivo does. You'll love the new payment plans that they have. Tivo now has a $16.95 monthly plan to meet your needs as long as your willing to commit to there service for three years. You can also commit to a yearly plan but the options change. At least you'll be able to enjoy your favorite shows at affordable prices.
4/1/06
Microsoft NYC Settlement
Purchased Microsoft software from 1994 to 2004? Well Microsoft owes you something then. Everyone is entitled to get a free $12- dollar coupon for each computer. No receipt or purchase necessary. The same goes for Microsoft office products in which you will get a $5- voucher as well. The coupon could be used at any store for technology products not including Microsoft products. Either do it online or call Microsoft at 877-867-6133 but hurry up the deadline is OCTOBER 18,2006...
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