Monday, October 29, 2007

Apple - Eat or Sweet Operating System Launched

Apple's delayed update to the Mac OS X operating system is hitting store shelves as consumers are increasingly snapping up Macintosh computers to complement their iPods and iPhones.

Dubbed Leopard, the upgrade has gone on sale at stores around the world. It offers improvements to an operating system that already was widely praised for its ease-of-use and slick interface.

Leopard boasts more than 300 new features, including one called 'Boot Camp' that lets users instal Windows on Macs, though both operating systems cannot run at the same time. 'Time Machine,' an automated data backup system, and 'Spaces,' a way to simultaneously view open applications, are among the other highlighted features.

Macs have reached record sale levels, and the launch of Leopard is expected to bolster a continuing rise.

At Apple's flagship 5th Avenue store in New York City, a line of about 500 people snaked around the block before Leopard went on sale. The anxious, some of whom queued up more than four hours beforehand, included not only the longtime Apple faithful but new converts. Patrick van Rosendaal, 31, visiting from Columbus, Ohio, stood in line for an hour and a half before he got his hands on a shrink-wrapped copy of Leopard. He bought his first Mac two months ago. "Macs are still rather new to me," he said. "But I'm completely addicted."

Novell unleashed one more Gem in the Operating System Segment

Novell India has released the latest version of PC operating system openSUSE - version 10.3. has a dual-boot (an option to start running either Linux or Windows on the PC), compatibility of OpenOffice.org office suite with Microsoft Office and better multimedia support.

The latest GNOME and KDE desktop environments have been included, including a KDE 4 preview. AppArmor protects the operating system and applications from attacks, viruses and malicious applications. Version 10.3 also now includes MP3 support for Banshee and Amarok, the default media players.

Users can also set up a home network and run a Web server with virtualisation software such as Xen 3.1 and VirtualBox 1.5 on the OS. With ‘1-Click Install’, the installation of new drivers and applications is simplified. OpenSUSE is created by the openSUSE project, which has more than 54,000 registered members.

Monday, October 15, 2007

Fight against Spyware - Choose the right Anti-Spyware

If you ever go online, you know what can happen. Without the right software to protect it, your computer is vulnerable to all kinds of viruses, trackers and other intruders. This you already know. Because every time you turn around, there's something new on the market that claims it's crucial to the safety of your PC. Heck, you even get spam about protecting your computer from spam.

If you paid attention to all of this, you'd end up with a hard drive full of anti-virus programs and a whole host of spyware seekers. Which would really slow down your computer, if nothing else. So what do you truly need to protect your home PC? We asked Monica Forrest, who's a DCI -- that's deputy of counterintelligence -- for Best Buy's cheeky computer support team, the Geek Squad. (Don't ask about the job title. It's a geek thing.)

Here's what Forrest says you need: "One really good anti-virus program and one good spyware program." Really? Is that all? It seems too simple. As long as those two programs are reputable and updated, you should be safe, she says. How do you know what to get? Here are tips:

Do your research.

What kind of software should you buy -- Norton? McAfee? Trend Micro?

Most computer and technology publications rate this stuff every so often, so go online and search for recent ratings. (You can go to CNet.com to find all the reviews you'll ever want to read.) Once you've seen a few of these charts, you'll start to see which software programs consistently come out on top -- and which have features that you like. Or, of course, you can ask an expert. Forrest urges you to drop by the Geek Squad counter at your neighborhood Best Buy and ask for advice.

Don't opt for the combo.

Lots of companies sell software suites -- package deals that offer both anti-virus and anti-spyware programs. But Forrest doesn't recommend those. In her experience, when security software is packaged, it tends to protect against one problem far better than it protects against the other. "They tend to work better," she says, "if it's not a combination." So don't just settle for the suite. It's unlikely that the very best will come in a single package.

Beware of freebies.

What about those anti-spyware programs that are free for the downloading?

Those can be OK, Forrest says. But be careful. Sometimes free software can have some nasty stuff attached. "Some of the free anti-spyware programs are very good programs," Forrest says. "But some that say they are free are more spyware than they are protection."

Don't assume your computer is protected.

Yes, some sort of anti-virus software probably came with your computer. You've seen the little icon on your desktop, and you know you once saw it scanning for something. Isn't that enough? Probably not, unless your PC is brand-new. Most of those programs are installed with a 60- or 90-day trial period. And once that trial expires, if you don't subscribe to the service, then you're out of luck.

(Watch the expiration date even if you paid for the program, by the way. You don't get indefinite protection; you have to re-up every year or so.) Once you've picked out your software, how do you know it's doing its job?

Here are tips for making your security software work for you:

Don't forget to scan

You can have all the protection programs you need, but if you don't use them to scan your computer, they might as well not be there. You should set up your anti-virus program to scan your system once a week. And run your anti-spyware program at least a couple of times a week. "You don't have to sit there and watch it," Forrest says. "Let it run in the background, then check and see if it finds anything."

Don't forget to update

Here's why you pay for these programs in the first place: They're constantly searching for new threats, coming up with new ways to protect your computer. But you don't get the benefit unless you update your system. So check for updates every time you run a scan. (You may be able to set your program to do this automatically.)

Set up your firewall

A firewall protects your computer from more than just viruses -- it keeps out a whole array of network intruders. Some security suites include a personal firewall. But the one that Windows installs on your PC is perfectly decent, Forrest says. "As long as that's turned on," she says, "that'll protect you as well as anything else." To turn it on, or to see whether it's turned on, go to your computer's Security Center.

Be careful out there anyway

"Be careful where you go on the Internet," Forrest says. Just about anytime you download something for free, you're going to get some spyware. Those programs that offer you free music and free movies? Yeah, you may get entertainment for free. But there's likely some stuff you don't want thrown in with the deal. The Geek Squad sees a lot of that, Forrest says.

"You're getting the music, but you're also getting X, Y and Z spyware that's on there," she says. And that's just asking for it.

So Just be Cautious Enough to Fight them all........

Computer Software - Blood for PC

Computer software is a general term used to describe a collection of computer programs, procedures and documentation that perform some task on a computer system. The term includes application software such as word processors which perform productive tasks for users, system software such as operating systems, which interface with hardware to provide the necessary services for application software, and middleware which controls and co-ordinates distributed systems.
Practical computer systems divide software systems into three major classes: system software, programming software and application software, although the distinction is arbitrary, and often blurred.
* System software helps run the computer hardware and computer system. It includes operating systems, device drivers, diagnostic tools, servers, windowing systems, utilities and more. The purpose of systems software is to insulate the applications programmer as much as possible from the details of the particular computer complex being used, especially memory and other hardware features, and such accessory devices as communications, printers, readers, displays, keyboards, etc.
* Programming software usually provides tools to assist a programmer in writing computer programs and software using different programming languages in a more convenient way. The tools include text editors, compilers, interpreters, linkers, debuggers, and so on. An Integrated development environment (IDE) merges those tools into a software bundle, and a programmer may not need to type multiple commands for compiling, interpreter, debugging, tracing, and etc., because the IDE usually has an advanced graphical user interface, or GUI.
* Application software allows end users to accomplish one or more specific (non-computer related) tasks. Typical applications include industrial automation, business software, educational software, medical software, databases, and computer games. Businesses are probably the biggest users of application software, but almost every field of human activity now uses some form of application software. It is used to automate all sorts of functions.

Sunday, October 14, 2007

Windows XP - Problem Free Desktop

As a regular computer user, it is essential for you to understand the need and importance of keeping your system problem free. There are many ways through which you can keep your computer fit and in proper shape. But the most important way of keeping your system problem free is by using it properly.

All the computers available nowadays can easily perform a number of tasks simultaneously, but you must realize that the more tasks you do at a single time, the slower your computer will become. On the other hand most of the people don’t realize that many programs load up when they first turn-on their computers. These programs start automatically and remain until you turn off the computer.

If by chance you use these programs, your computer will become slower and possibly less reliable. You can locate these programs at the right side of screen just near the clock in form of small icons. In order to remove these unwanted programs, follow the given steps carefully.

1. Place your mouse over one of the small icons. Then right click on them and see if there is any option to delete or prevent it starting when Windows loads up. Do the same with other icons except the speaker icon.

2. After that right click on the start option at the left hand side of the screen and click on explore, look for a folder called programs just do a double click on this folder and then again double click on startup. Is there any shortcut in this folder that you don’t want while starting up every time and if you find anything unwanted then do a right click on it and the click on ‘delete’ option.

3. At last, to avoid obstinate or stubborn programs, you need to go into Windows System Information – click on Start menu, go to Programs, then Accessories and System Tools and finally click on System Information.

When the window gets opened, click Tools and then System Configuration. If you click on startup tab you can see the remaining programs that automatically load up when the system first starts. So now simply uncheck the box besides those things that you dont want to load up and then restart your computer.

Remember that these unwanted programs can spoil your computer’s speed and reliability so remove them as early as possible.

Computer Repair / Help - "Professional Help versus fixing it Yourself"

In a world that is filled with viruses, worms, and other harmful computer programs many computer owners may find themselves in need of a computer repair. Dangerous programs are just a small amount of the common computer repairs that may need to be made. Sometimes a computer part can stop working or cosmetic damage may occur.

Once damage occurs to a computer there are many computer owners who have to make an important decision. As much as many individuals would love to purchase a new computer there are a many people who can’t afford the large purchase. Since a computer is an expensive piece of equipment many computer owners with a broken machine often opt for having it repaired.

Depending on the computer problem there are a number of repair choices available. Having a computer professionally repaired is a great way to make sure that the problem is fully fixed; however, professional computer repair does not always come cheap. There are many computer owners who try and repair their computer themselves or have a friend do it for little or no money.

Which is the better computer repair choice? As previously mentioned the best repair option will mostly depend on the type of repair that a computer needs. Each computer repair option has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Viruses and worms are just a couple of the dangerous computer programs that somehow can make its way into our computers. These programs often attack the operating system of a computer. Many computers can be fixed by simply installing an anti-virus computer program; however, other computers may actually crash and no longer operate.

Simply installing and deleting viruses and other dangerous computer programs is something that many computer owners can do on their own. A large number of anti-virus computer software programs can be purchased over the internet or from a wide variety of retail store locations. This process is best done before it gets out of control because some computers may have their operating system completely destroyed and many individuals are unable to do the repair themselves.

It is not uncommon for a specific computer part to stop working. Office supply stores and the internet make it possible for just about anyone to purchase a specific computer part. Individuals who are able to retrieve the needed computer part may be able to repair their computer on their own. Many online internet resources guides offer tips and instructions for completing a certain repair.

Fixing your computer without having to pay a professional is nice; however, many computer owners do not successfully repair their computer. Many actually end up causing additional damage to the computer or only temporarily fixing the problem. Self computer repair may end up costing a computer owner a lot more money then the intended to spend.

As difficult as it may be for you to fork over your hard earned money to have your computer professionally repaired it may be more beneficial to an inexperienced computer owner. Many computer technicians are properly trained and educated in repairing a computer. There are some computer technicians that stand behind their work so much that they offer a warranty or a satisfaction guarantee on their work. Deciding whether to have your computer professional repaired or not is up to you; however, you should think about the pros and cons of each repair option before making you final decision.

Anti-Virus "Precaution is Better than Cure"

In today's world, everyone needs to protect their computers from viruses. There are a number of things you can do for free to keep your computer safe from viruses. Below are the few tips on safe computing that you should follow even with good automated anti-virus protection.

Update Your Self: This not only applies to your anti-virus software, but also your operating system, browser and email client. Most viruses take advantage of known security problems in your computer's software. There is almost always a patch available for the software before viruses appear on the scene that take advantage of the vulnerabilities. If you use Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office, Windows Update and Office Update respectively provide an easy way to keep up-to-date with security patches.

Common Sense Need To Be Used: Most virus infections wouldn't happen if the computer user would think about what they are doing and use a little common sense. If you get a strange looking email message delete it instead of opening it to satisfy your curiosity. If a message, even a normal looking one, has an attachment you were not expecting to receive, don't click on it to see what it is. Much of the secret to safe computing is smart computing.

Don't visit Questionable Sites: Don't visit questionable sites like those with pirated software (warez sites), hacker sites, or sites that promise you software keys and other ways to break the law.

Be Little Different From Others: Almost all viruses use flaws or features of Microsoft products. Using alternative software, especially Web browsers and email programs will thwart most viruses. Mozilla is good choice for both Web browser and email client. Using a non-Microsoft operating system such as Linux can also be a good choice for some. These measures won't prevent all viruses but they will greatly improve your chances of not becoming infected with the most prevalent viruses. You should use software that you install that can prevent infections instead of finding them after the fact.

Xerox Printers - Ultimate Expierience

Xerox Corp. is trying to snag new small-business customers for its color printers with a focus on a particular hue — the green of money. The region’s fourth-largest employer on Monday unveiled two new color printers for small and mid-sized businesses that it said make full-color printing no more expensive than black-and-white.The Xerox Phaser 8860 and 8860MFP both use ink sticks — walnut-sized, waxy blocks resembling lumps of melted crayon — to provide the color.

New developments in ink stick technology have driven down the per-page cost of color printing substantially, said Jim Rise, vice president and general manager of Xerox’s solid ink products business unit. “When we survey our own customers … or we look at third-party market research, consistently we see that the cost of color printing is the No. 1 barrier to adoption for everyday use in the office,” Rise said.

The Phasers were designed and engineered in Xerox’s Webster and Henrietta facilities. They are being produced by Singapore-based Flextronics Ltd., which took over much of Xerox’s manufacturing in 2001. Xerox produces solid ink at its Wilsonville, Ore., plant. “We improved these inks right down to the molecular level,” Rise said. “It’s a brand-new ink formulation.”

The company also invented a new manufacturing process that lets it put more ink in each stick, he said. The two new Phasers are the first to use the new solid ink. The 8860, with a base price of $2,499, is available now, while the 8860MFP, at $3,999, will be available in November. They are aimed at businesses that print 1,000 to 10,000 pages a month. In announcing the new machines, Xerox took a shot at Hewlett-Packard Co., which dominates the color printer business. According to Xerox, the ink sticks to do 14,000 pages would cost $432, while the toner cartridges to do roughly the same amount of color printing on an HP 4700dn would cost $941. The 4700dn machine costs $1,499.

"Hewlett-Packard was largely dismissive of Xerox’s announcement."

Tom Codd, director of marketing for HP’s LaserJet business, said that while the company has looked at solid ink technology, “there are so many drawbacks in the office to it, we chose not to pursue it.” “It does very nice glossy images, but the challenge with the technology is the image is not very durable on the page and it requires a tremendous amount of power to keep that wax in a liquid state,” Codd said.

Along with cost, Xerox also was trumpeting the supposed environmental friendliness of its solid ink technology, saying it generates one-tenth the waste that laser printers do. Xerox introduced its solid ink technology in 1991. With Monday’s announcement, it now has four solid ink printers on the market.

Monday, October 8, 2007

Top 5 Protection Tips for DSL(Internet) Users

The World Wide Web is useful and dangerous too! What most people may not know is that by connecting their computers to the internet they are setting themselves up as targets for thieves and unscrupulous people. The US government is taking steps towards inculcating an understanding of the importance of cyber security among citizens especially home computer users. Similarly DSL connection providers like Verizon are also making great efforts to provide secure connections.

DLS users like others need to protect their computer systems and private information stored on computers from cyber thieves and malicious hackers. Recent exercises such as the “Honeymoon Project” found that most computer systems can be hacked into between 3-5 days.
While DSL providers will have security systems in place it is best you take steps to protect yourself and your family and business. It is simple:
1. Install a firewall. It is software that recognizes unauthorized access and blocks it. What is more it prevents unauthorized movement of files from your computer too! This is important as a DSL connection means your computer is always connected to the internet and is susceptible to attack. A firewall must always be the latest version and configured properly to scan your system continuously.
2. Ensure that your anti virus software is functional and updated regularly. Never leave your computer system open to virus attacks. Not only are you putting your files and private information in jeopardy but also that of others who are in your address book and system. Cyber criminals steal credit card and bank information for personal financial gain. Ensure that your computer has the latest virus protection system in place. Be sure to renew the antivirus software license.
3. Configure your computer properly. If you don’t know how to do this seek the help of a trustworthy family member or friend. Use secure and original passwords. Its important to regularly change your password and create unique passwords that are a mix of words and numbers.
4. Always used authentic operating systems and software. Pay the licensing fees and update your computer regularly with the latest vendor security patches. This will protect your computer system to the highest possible extent.
5. Always use safe e-mail practices. Most “bugs” attack your system through attachments. So never open emails with attachments from unknown sources. All attachments must be scanned before opening. Avoid opening attachments with file extensions like “.vbs.” P2P networks are dangerous as also downloading executable programs. Learn all you can about dangers termed as “Trojan horses.”
In order to protect yourself you need to learn as much as possible on computer security for home users. Protecting your system will make things difficult for hackers, attackers, and crackers. When shutting down your computer after use please make sure you have disconnected your system from the internet completely. This will ensure that attacks don’t happen while you are asleep.
Simple steps could save your life and money.

Internet through Wireless and Concept VOIP!

For those interested in internet access while on the go, WiFi hotspots provide a partial solution, but coverage is spotty at best. Using a cellular phone as a modem solves the coverage issue, but unfortunately the increased coverage comes at the expense of bandwidth which is only comparable to dial-up speed. Fortunately deciding on which trade-off to take is no longer an issue as Verizon has recently introduced their wireless broadband service which provides high speed internet access to users on the go. Adding only a simple PC card provides that computer with data access speeds comparable to DSL service anywhere on Verizon's Broadband Access network. Equally impressive is the fact that access is charged at an extremely reasonable flat monthly rate and not on a per-minute or bandwidth basis.

VOIP Service
One additional benefit of high speed internet access that many consumers have recently discovered is the ability to use VoIP service for all of their telephone calls and reduce their monthly telephone bills by up to 50% or more. Voice over IP service makes traditional home phone service obsolete as the high speed internet connection is used to carry all phone calls rather than traditional phone lines. Transitioning to the new service is easy as you can use the same phone that you currently use, it just needs to be plugged into an small adapter which is provided.

High Speed Internet - Demand the Best

The content available on the internet today has evolved to be more than just simple text based webpages. Today's bandwidth intensive games, videos and Flash based websites push your internet connection harder than ever before. Without a reliable high speed internet connection at home you are missing out on the best the internet has to offer. Not at home and constantly on the go? If so, not to worry as high speed internet access is also now available in the form of wireless broadband to users on the go.

Three of the most popular high speed internet access providers in the United States are Comcast, Earthlink DSL and AT&T Yahoo and for good reason. All three companies not only provide reliable, high speed internet access, but they also bundle in such features as virus protection, photo sharing, disk space for a personal web page and much more. Prices for complete access packages such as these have dropped considerably in the past two years and each of these providers sweeten the pot even further by offering very attractive introductory rates. So, no matter whether you desire faster internet access to be able to work from home or for downloading music, watching videos and experiencing everything else the web has to offer, there has never been a better time to upgrade your service. Additionally, add a network card and a wireless router to your setup at home and you can enjoy the benefits of your high speed internet access anywhere you wish in your home or even share the connection on multiple computers if you wish.