A new Age calls for a New Age of Tech User's.

Yes, in an age where technology is in a full sprint and running away from us, we need to step it up a bit and get ahead of the ball. Doing this is not as hard as it would seem, the keys to having a good running computer environment are not that complex and most can be automated, (meaning the computer can be scheduled to do many of these tasks for you.) Here are NEW BUYER BASICS:

• DO NOT buy added protection Software at the Retailer.
• BUY a Machine that suits your needs. If your a Light, Medium or Heavy Data User/ with little or high demand for Streaming Capabilities, or even Video and Audio Editing.Heavy Ended needs are better suited for DESKTOP TOWERS, where LapTop's are for LIGHT ended users for Email, and light production.
• OUT OF BOX: When taking your machine out of the box follow the setup instructions and be sure to have the power cord plugged in on Laptops to ensure it does not shut down during vital set-up periods. Go through the steps of time, date, user names and the like, but SKIP Anti-Virus Installs, and the INTERNET connection portions. (AGAIN, do not set up the INTERNET and ANTIVIRUS protections on the machine during initial setup, click the NOT NOW, option. Yes, there will be warnings. Once Set up, go into your programs list, and the desktop, and remove any programs not vital to the system, you do not want. Do not uninstall, software burning programs or other vital ones that may be there including but not limited to, Java, Adobe, Shockwave, etc. Anything with the name BURNER in it, they likely have drivers needed in them to run your cd burner on the machine. Next research the AntiVirus that came preinstalled. Yes you need to get rid of it. Now connect to the internet only is needed to remove your Antivirus, which you need to do for Norton as an example. Your computer will be safe going to secured sites without protection, just don't get excited your online and start surfing the web, you WILL get infected. For Norton Products, simply goto www.norton.com/nrt , and run the uninstaller, it will prompt to restart, it will also pop up on restart asking you to reinstall it. Close the window and it is gone. Double check the programs list and make sure all facets of it is removed, such as Norton ToolBars etc. Now after a restart and properly removing the old ANTIVIRUS (Do not take free trials!) go to Microsofts page here  http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/security-essentials-download and install the FREE version, be sure to custom INSTALL and refuse any other offers. If you take offers by accident, remember the names and remove them in the programs lists later. Now you have an AntiVirus, it will update and the like on its own, turn all of that on, and information sharing. This helps them to define Virus' as they are found on machines, which helps everyone. Data is Power. NEXT all you need is your MALWARE protection, I use MALWAREBYTES  Get it here! Be sure to put an Icon on the TASK bar so you can CLICK it in an emergency where unwanted pop ups come around! Teach your family to use this tool and keep it updated, and it put a sword in your hands against Malware almost 95% of the time. Rule #1 to avoid Malware? Don't surf on unofficial sites, Internet Sites are like Land, it depends on what is built there as to the level of security, and lack there of could have you in the middle of a MALWARE den. Yup.
• Be sure JAVA, ADOBE, FLASH are all up to date. When Dealing with these programs and to avoid errors, be sure you only have the latest VERSION installed, Uninstall all previous versions and patches if the Version changes. If you get a patch update and not a version UPDATE, run it as is, no uninstalls are needed. This will prevent program errors and the like going forward.
• NEVER install TOOLBARS of any type.TOOLBARS are basically LEGAL spyware, where research gatherers monitor what you do through tools built into their Tool Bars, which eats your internet speed, whether you use them or not.
• Never set programs to START when the computer starts, other than INTERNET, and ANTIVIRUS. The more things you have turning on when the machine powers up, the longer it takes to start, and if you have too many programs starting, it will eat all the RAM, and your computer will nerver LOAD into WINDOWS. Simply, go into SAFE MODE, turn off the Start Up programs and restart, the problem is solved. Never put programs to STARTUP, go into settings/ Preferences and turn them off.
• Whenever installing programs, get them from secured sites and always do a custom install to avoid getting unwanted programs on your machine. REMEMBER no MORE security! DO NOT get a bunch of BOT programs, with computers and security programs MORE is BAD, NOT good. All you need is the MSE and MALWAREBYTES. I am telling you. And always have the latest version of Windows EXPLORER, even if you don't use it. Turn on your Windows Updates. Let the MSE run your settings, and if you have issues with a program and the internet, ADD it to the exceptions in your ANTIVIRUS PROGRAM. See Adding Exceptions to MSE.
• You almost NEVER have to BUY Microsoft Tools, for example, there is OPENOFFICE that allows you to do documents, read, send and publish in nearly every Doc type, and it is FREE. FREEWARE is a great search term when looking for a program or computer tool. But be cautious, there will be tons of MIRROR sites pretending to be giving you these products, but instead it is a trick to get their product and other affiliate services. Why? Even though they know you may uninstall everything later? Because they are paid by the download, it is a big hole in the web marketing industry. Trick Numbers.
• I NOW service the SW MISSOURI area, with Milage outside of Springfield. Feel free to hit my Facebook page and links, and make an appointment. Let me be Your Computer Guru. One on One Computer and Program Training starting at $100.00. Find me Here!
• REMEMBER set your WINDOWS UPDATE/ DEFRAGMENTATION & Disk CleanUp, as well as the ANTIVIRUS, ADOBE, and JAVA on AUTO UPDATE. I set them to weekly, in the eves when I know I won't be using my computer. They do the updates and take care of it all for you. Once you catch that everything has recently BEEN updated and is running fine, do a SYSTEM RESTORE image, so you have a good point in time to go back to if something should go wrong. Also if the machine acts strange after an update, go into SAFE MODE turn off updates, and uninstall the last update(s) installed, look for an update patch or repair. Then try the update again, this could take days or maybe weeks, so be sure not to turn THAT update back on until they fixed it.
• DO NOT HIBERNATE/ SLEEP your machine. I turn these functions off to prevent errors, leave the machine plugged in (Laptops) provide plenty of ventilation under the machines which means do not use on your Lap or padded/ cloth surfaces it will suffocate your machine and cook the chips right off the MotherBoard. Hibernation can potentially not turn on all system services needed when the machine returns from it's sleep, turn these off in the power options. Instead of hibernate, simply turn on the screen saver, and password lock it. Turn off all sleep and hibernate function, because when your not using your machine, or are not planning to for awhile? Well, if it is a Laptop, you should turn it off. They are only made to be on 5-6 hours at a time, and be sure to exercise your battery, by using it just opn battery regularly, it prevents burning the battery out. From over charging, or having a continual charge. Hibernate and Sleep have been broken since Xp, and they know it.

IF you're in the SW MISSOURI AREA and NEED help, I do ON Site, Drop Off's and Overnights, go ahead and look me up at www.Tunderground.weebly.com or on FACEBOOK AT TECHUNDERGROUND!

Holiday & new Years Line-up

Welcome to my TECH BLOG, if you have specific questions, I will be adding and HTML instant response link at the bottom of this ARTICLE, this will help make future feedbacks more effecient.
For those in the SW Missouri/ Springfield, Mo area, and you have had it up to your eye balls in beurocratic crap from your Computer Manufacturer, or cookie cutter Box Store Technicians, and your tired of wasting time and money to solve issues. Hit me up, the information is to the left, or find me on FB CLICK HERE! or my direct website CLICK HERE! I want to thank my local clients for updating the Testimonials pages and keeping me informed of new issues in the computer world. This submission is going to be a little LONG as we have a bit to catch up on. In this order:

1. RESPONSE to COMMENTS
2. HOLIDAY Shopping/ Up, downs, and in betweens.
3. The windows 8 Release, RULES of engagement for NEW OS'
4. Anti-virus and SPYWARE install/ uninstall/ operations UPDATE.
5. PROPER CLEANING of your computer, Old programs/ etc. UPDATES
6. New age in CYBER HACKING/ Hi-Jacking, Social Site KEYLOGGERS.
7. Again, Browser TOOLBARS, and Track ENGINES
8. Changing your desktop/ Desktop runtime effecienies.
9. Basics to Hardware Troubleshooting.

I will go into MILD detail on each of these TOPICS, and move forward after comments on more detailed articles refering directly to the main topic into the NEW YEAR! Happy Holidays & New Year 2013!

NUMBER 1: RESPONSE to Comments

I want to thank everyone for their FEEDBACK and I apologize in advance for getting lost in the electronic seas for so long. I have been working hard on a WEB NETWORK BROADCASTING project for the last 2 years, and thankfully, my experience has allowed me to keep the show on air, dispite CYBER attacks on my networks, and the likes of machines failing from mysteriously loosing their "SYS32/ Command Files) in both cases a full recovery was in order, and they cost me thousands of dollars because of this (lost data - skitz and the Show archives) however, it was my fault for not BACKING it UP on an external HDD. (Hard Drive) So lesson #1, if you loose DATA, it is your fault, IF, you didn't have it backed up.

OUT of the GATE, if you spam PORN sites of ANY kind on these pages in the comments, you will be removed, deleted, and reported, this is an all ages BLOG. Thank you in advance for keeping your smut to yourself.

Now there are a number of anonymous feedbacks and comments, if you want to be mentioned in the POST, then be sure to include your email, or your signature name or alias in the text. Thank you!

• in response to Hey stephen ! Thank for all the help! What about cleaning out my cookies... and I am not talking about the home baked ones., by Anonymous.

Cookies can be cleaned from the browsers tool section, and clean them that way, or go to the built in cleanup tools in windows and run it and it will get rid of cache and page storages and cookies all at once. on Odds and Ends

• in response to Sounds REALLY nice. I'd be interested on getting a copy.I bought my HP around 6 months ago, so I don't feel like an upgrade yet, but when I do get my hands on a copy and upgrade, oh boy will I have fun exploring Windows 7 OS!, by jasewatson.

Windows 8 is said to be upgradeable from XP, unlike windows 7, but with all the same perks and then some on Windows 7

• in response to Steve, This is Curtis I spoke with you through HP Customer Service. What free software do you reccommend to protect my computer?, by Anonymous.

Today I would say the free version of Microsoft Security Essentials, the basic package is free, and couple this with MALWAREBYTES and you are safe from harm, if you get a harmful pop up dont touch anything but that LAUNCH MALWAREBYTES button, run a scan and it will cut the harmful tethers, remove the threats and restart your machine- good as new. The MSE stops only major viruses and not MOST malware. on Windows Update Error

• in response to I like this Tech blog! It stands out from all the others in this search criteria! I know a great blog when I see it. Thanks for the great information on the subject. The web needs more blogs like this one. Thanks again, and Happy Halloween! Jnewman1, by jerometnewman.

thank you, I have however been neglecting it, look for new articles in the following days! and Thank you! on Windows Update Error - Added note: the blog is getting alot of attention as of late with over 3k hits, don't hesitate to post how my ideas have helped you in your computer life on my FB page CLICK HERE, and check out my website for details on "IN the AREA, repairs and fixes by Tech Underground."

• in response to Hey how does the 7 seas have anything to do with computers and the internet?, by Anonymous.

Yes, sailing the modern 7 seas explains that this is the new age of pirates, the people that are selling you stuff you dont need, and programs and sites on the net that feed off of unsuspecting people, it is a must have though some of the security software info is a bit outdated. on What to Buy Holidays 2009 UPDATE: The highest number of FRAUD and SCAMS in the world is not as much anymore on our phones, and on our doorsteps anymore, as much as it is online. SAILING the MODERN 7 SEAS, is a refferance to the OLD age of PIRATES, and how this is the NEW 7 seas for those NEW generations of Criminals. CYBER PIRATES. I think my second edition release (with updates) will be retitled as SUCH.

• in response to Could you write an article on how to use an external monitor with a laptop PC?? Thanks for all your help... Sue, by Anonymous.

sorry I have neglected this page so long, I will be back at it daily. And yes I will write and article for using an external monitor on your laptop. on What to Buy Holidays 2009 UPDATE: Sue most standard monitors even the OLDER versions have a simple PLUG and PLAY capability, this is because the unit generally has a chip that identifies the unit and the basic operating paramiters to your computer, (desk top or lap top). To use a flip Screen (as it used to be called) all you need to do is connect the monitor to your laptop, and then after it is booted up, simply hit FN+F1 (there should be a tiny picture of a monitor on the key, and it could be on another F key on some models. And in some cases, you simply hit the button, and do not use the FN, alternate key press.) What you will see is it go from your Laptop screen to the External, then a combination of the two, parallell or verticle, depending on your computers operating system.) In most cases advanced settings for this are accessable through your program control console, for your graphic card in Properties.

• Any ideas short of a total system reinstall for removal of rouge programs? on Rogue Ware

This is a rough question. Each infection case varies by degree's depending on what type of infection it really is, this is only determined after hours of rustling with the beast, to determine how damagig the program is. See most malware doesn't want to DESTROY your machine, they simply pretend your infected by locking your files, and then make you pay to regain access to your own system. These types are too intense to crack without alot of CODING Experience in MS OS enviroments. If it does not allow you access to files on the system, save what you can and recover, if not, then attempt restores, and rebuilds. They work 20% of the time, but because of the mass of CODE in the OS, you never know if it is completely gone, without a recovery, as it could pop back up any time it gets opporotunity.

I want to thank everyone for their questions and comments! Now stay tuned for a tomorrow post, and I will continue to the next TOPIC: HOLIDAY Shopping/ Up, downs, and in betweens.

My new found time, that  am able to continue working my BLOG and the SITE, is mainly due to the LOCAL ARTISTS, and SMALL BUSINESS' that support my WEB BROADCAST station, BACKHAND STUDIOS, and it's FLAGSHIP show, with band interviews and ADULT Humor, Beer420 Webradio! Catch us every Wednesday on the WEB, iPhone, iPad, Android at www.spreaker.com starting at 4:20pm CST. Join us THURSDAYS for special Shows, and join spreaker with the JOIN with FACEBOOK link! It is free and easy, and if your on the go, get the APP.

Ok, now some fun! here is a TEST I am running, so please use this LINK below to comment, I have built it in HTML and want to see if it will work in a LIVE post. So comment away and I will catch you tomorrow!

TECH SPEAK will be a new show on Backhand Studios Channel on SPREAKER! It is a WebBroadcast that is available on all Smartphones and the Net, and can be listened to ANYWHERE, at work or at play, where ever you go. And you can download it as an Mp3, Podcast and take it on a drive. Here is an example of some of the things we will do on this broadcast, teach you and walk you through making your computer healthier, FREE of CHARGE.

EXAMPLE:
HERE is a TECHTIP for you. Speed up your computer by going into the settings of all your running programs, and turn off the option "START this PROGRAM when WINDOWS Starts", then save. Restart your computer. Once on the desktop, restart it a
gain. See how fast it starts up now? WHY? Well When Windows LOADS, it loads ALL startup programs FIRST, then it loads windows. If you turn off their AUTO STARTUP then all that needs to load is windows, and it loads right up! BAD POTENTIALS? Well you CAN have so many programs that start when your computer powers up, that there is no more memory for WINDOWS to load, thus you never get to the desktop. You can undo this by starting in SAFE MODE, and removing the AUTO START as explained above. Restart normally and WINDOWS will be able to load again.

SIGN UP for a FREE SPREAKER account to CHAT with us LIVE during the Broadcast!

OUR BROADCASTCHANNEL LIKE me On FACEBOOK!

Mini Laptop Deals

The Mini Notebook deals

In the mad rush from CChristmas and holiday season into the spring, we fall victim to quick buys. These are those things that sound absolutely wonderful, and we impulse buy on our projected ability to handle the cost, in balance for the product we are getting. This would be one of those mistaken buys, a Mini Notebook Deal offered by small Internet Companies and large cellphone giants.

My deal was paying $100 dollars to Sprint, after a credit check, and them promising a $100 rebate check in 2 weeks. (It took 6 weeks) Then I had an option of either a 500 Meg limit data plan or 5 gigs, the price difference of $60. The 500 meg plan was 30 some odd dollars, and the 5 gig was 60 a month. I took the 60 a month, as I know in this day and age, 500 megs of data would be opening and watching 10 YouTube videos, and about 4 hours of Runescape. (An online role playing game, I play with my sons.)

So I buy the thing and take the 60 dollar plan for 2 years. Being computer savoy didn't save me. I underestimated the data usage of one thing, my browser.

The window we use to view the Internet eats up a lot of RAM, my machine, as most of the Mini machines offered by phone companies in this GREAT deal, has only 1 gig of RAM. To upgrade this RAM, I need to PAY and send it in to be upgraded. I can't just simply open a bottom panel, and put in a larger Memory stick. Or I can void my BASIC manufacturers warranty, and open it up myself and upgrade the RAM, which would include ripping the entire unit apart. You CAN use a Flash Drive or a Mini Card to speed up your browsing speed, but it is a hassel. You can't run much more than one browser at a time, and only with limited tabs. This is even after I cleaned out all the SALES programs that come with every system, and removed the invasive preinstalled security software.
(THUMBS DOWN)

Second, and important to remember, the machine has no CD/DVD ROM. No Cd player or similar device is attached to these Mini Machines. You must go buy an external.or find everything you want online, or move the data using a Flash Drive. The upside, is someone computer savoy can work around this obstacle quite easily, and with medium effort.
(THUMBS DOWN)

Compressed windows, make browsing and researching in multiple windows, and even playing simple videos and online web browser type games a nightmare. Nothing short of frustrating, the clicking options on the mouse makes life a hell, it will jump around the screen, and you'll click and windows get grabbed and shut, or tabs are grabbed and moved. Sheer hell. Even for a veteran user. I invested in this unit to write my online articles, and gave up after an hour of being unable to read efficiently on it, and keep multiple tabs of information open for cross referencing.
(THUMBS DOWN)

The Machine comes with the most basic Windows software for an operating system - Windows Starter, this is even more primitive than the old version known as Windows Home. It is also stacked full of every Internet product and other thing they could shove on it for some extra pocket money. It took me hours to clean out trash programs for products anyone that is sane would never have interest in. And the preinstalled machine killer itself, Norton Internet Security, which is a great program for computer engineers, but not for normal humans like us.
(THUMBS DOWN)

Background Displays and the changing of your themes. Does NOT exist. You CAN NOT change your image backgrounds, and the image viewers in your windows can and WILL default to some weird subtext so you can't preview images properly either. You can install third party software to ADD this function to your system, but it will have long term effects on the code, once it is uninstalled.
(THUMBS DOWN)

Battery life is unbelievable! The best record yet! My 3 Cell gets more than 5 hours!
(THUMBS UP)

Mobility, and the ability to run social networking sites, and doing small busy work and Internet maintenance is over the top incredible. The ease of being able to move around or be on the go and accessing the Internet in a casual way, the unit is awesome. However, this is the adverse effect of simply using a laptop of any brand. Freedom of movement.
(THUMBS UP)

Internet connection. My Sprint service is great. I can roam throughout the city, with my machine online and connected and not loose connection while traveling. There is the rare occasion, but for the most part, the Sprint network is strong, and I nearly always have 3 or more bars of strength.
(THUMBS UP)

Home connections. With the multi card option in these units, connecting at home or at friends and family's homes is a snap, and this connection time is not deducted from your usage with Sprint. (Or the other companies you may have AT&T or T-Mobile)
(THUMBS UP)

My overall view on this machine is this, if you want mobility, and your using it for entertainment, then this will do the trick. If you have an option to upgrade the RAM do it, 2 gig would be good, but 3 would be ideal. It is a nice change of pace, not having to carry big bulky machines around to have access to the world wide web. I feel like I have a very large texting device, and a screen that allows the versatility of a Mini Machine.

Updates

Well I have been busy. I quite my job with HP, and now work from home writting articles for google, and doing my own in home tech support with my Tech Underground Company.

It is a slow start and I have lost tons in advertising money at this point. But I will tell you, I would not change the level of freedom I have for financial security, lol.

You can find out more about Tech Underground Here: http://www.techundergroundmo.com/

You can find out more about my free online assistance here: http://www.pcspyder.net/

You can find out more about my NEW book here: http://www.amazon.com/

And search for "The Modern 7 Seas" written under my pen name: Steve Stephens

Look for more books to come! Not tech ones though.

The book is Available!

You can click this link, CLICK HERE , to order your copy of my book, it arrives in 3-4 days. There is a a small mess with the chapter page numbers, which i will fix in second print. You can add this discount code:

 79WQC5CK for 10% off the cover price.


I hope you all enjoy, this was a long time coming, have been working on this for over a year. Which started with m,any of you on tech support calls, then to the website, and now in book form. I know you will all enjoy as it tells you all the scams that these computer companies try to pull on people, and gives you step by step- what kind of machine you need what to put on it and how to set it up and keep it running smooth for years to come! It will be the best $25 dollars you have spent in reference to computers.

Enjoy your time, with your new found friend. Steve Stephens May, 2010

The Time is Here

Be sure you hit me with any other things you would like to see in the upcoming book, "Sailing the Modern 7 Seas" A layman's Computer Bible. This is in Final Edit for those that are interested, if there are any other things you would like to see, leave a post at the bottom of this article and I will get it on E-mail.

When the book is released, It will be available at http://www.Amazon.com as well as any local book stores, such as Barnes and Noble, and local libraries over time.

I have finally made it to the first step of progress! I no longer work for Hp, and work full time for Google, and on my own Home tech Support service company in Springfield and St Louis http://onthegosolution.blogspot.com  

Find me on Live Chat at http://www.pcspyder.net where I do over the phone and chat FREE tech support, or click the live chat link to the right if it says I am online. Remote assistance is available for $50, if the situation calls for it, and I use MSN messenger to do this, it is very secure as Microsoft invented Remote assist.

I am still looking for someone to offer me a RADIO or TV Tech show! Lol

Self Employed, I will be better prepared to get my books completed! If anyone is interested in making residual income and you are quick to learn and type send me a message, it is a great "on the side" job, or even full time, its up to you! Make your own schedule! I do!

Hope you all are doing well, talk to you soon I hope!

SAILING the MODERN 7 SEAS

Well Guys thank you for all your SUPPORT in getting information enough to fill a book and help the rest of the world escape the nightmares we have escaped together thus far with our relationships conerning our computers and the outlook we take when dealing with these modern "Best Friends..." How much do we really know? What would I have needed to "DO" to avoid this or that.

Well knowledge is power!

There will be more info in the book obviously than whats in my blog here. So there is something for advid followers of my blog and for the first time person to stumble across me in this crusade. The fight to make fear of computers, and Tech Dependance, and the overall headache of "understanding" your machine go by the way side. And place a confidence in you, that your an EDUCATED consumer, and Tech Savy enough to avoid the perils of the Internets Modern 7 Seas of crooks and villians.

WHAT IS IN THE BOOK:

• 
  
  Protecting yourself, your machine and your home from unwanted "electronic" intrusions. Mking for a better computer experience you can share with others as well. The empowering feeling of knowing the right "Common Sense" Tech outlook on how you, your friends and family; even your co-workers interact and cohabitate with your computers.
• System Health Maintenance, and how to keep top internet and system performance.
• "Sailing the Modern 7 Seas" is going to teach you from the point of taking it out of the box, setting it up, what to install and what not to install. How to install it.
• It will explain computer production software.
• Security software.
• Backups.
• Restores.
• Recoverys.
• Data Backup.
• Maintenance.
• Even the best ways for adding printers and other devices.
• Not to mention settting up your own home or home office network!
• Including how to keep it safe from being "Leeched" or "Hacked".
• And a Whole LABS section of more Advanced stuff to know or play with for TECHIE fun.

I hope you will all be on the lookout for the book and simply spread the word. Those that I have helped, alot of it you could have done on your own had you known the answers. The answers WILL be in this book.

Thank you once again my friends, for your feedback, your conversations and your support.

Stephen

(These will be the front and back covers)

What to Buy Holidays 2009

Welcome to another year! Happy Holidays everyone and regardless of your faith and what you are celebrating, you can be sure it is going to involve some goodies for you and your loved ones.
I noticed a lot of what I wrote last year still applies, so I will add some new things to the top of the list and then get redundant later with a refresher of last years suggestions.
Lets start at the top shall we? We will start with the who, what when and where's... First off ALL new machines come with Windows 7 on them! Yahhhhhoooooo! Whoot! Ok, enough of my excitement...

Ok when we are buying new technology, we generally go to a store. Lets start with the WHO. In my opinion it is better to buy computers DIRECT from the manufacturer. The reason for this is that you know its never been touched by someone else, and there's less chance that someone owned it before you and ruined the machine and the company just placed it back on the shelf.
Do not buy machines from 3rd party websites. Doing this is taking the chance that the machine is a refurbished one, meaning they took parts from dead machines and retested them and resold them. This leaves the space for mechanical failure and you generally get a 90 warranty on these types of machines, definitly not worth the "savings" that would motivate someone to buy them.
In a retail store if it looks too good to be true it probably is. And this works in reverse as well. Many try to sell you more when you need less and less when you need more. Examples follow in mention of warranties and security software and these were issues last year and still are a problem. If a machine is extremely inexpensive, know you are getting what you paid for. A lot of the time the units are cheaper as the retailer ordered machines that have been downgraded, meaning not loaded with the basic stuff, or in other cases it is made up with refurbished parts. Cheap on a laptop should be a common sense warning.

An exception to this rule is the new MINI type machines, just know they are souped up PDA's basically, internet and word processing, no built in DVD or CD rom and have top end processing of 1.2Ghz. Good for a student doing documents and emails, anything more intense than that, you'll be disappointed.

Do not buy your added gear like external hard drives and other replacements or upgrade from retail, instead set up an account on New Egg (click here) and get all your extras and upgrades through them, and they run deals all year long. Again, this is for parts, Assec, and upgrades. Awesome place. And no I don't get paid for you going there, again this is FREE information.

SOFTWARE:

Top of the list, the one greatest thing that we can not live without! It doesn't matter if its for audio editing, video playing or the like - even security software, we should know what we are getting and what it offers - before we buy or install.

The hottest thing on the market this year is the LoJack software. If you are on the go with your laptop and ever in a situation where it could be stolen. LoJack is your answer, it will embed a tracker into your machine and if it gets stolen they will be able to GPS your machine and the goons that stole it. Amen.

Here are a few known things to look out for:

Multiple Purchasing:

Be cautious of retailers selling you multiple copies of the same program, good examples are copies of office and Norton security and the like. Most of these offer 3 product keys for every one package purchased. I have seen very often (No retailer names mentioned to avoid lawsuit) them selling a person two copies of these soft wares when each box is good for up to 3 machines.

Compatibility:

Be sure that the Software you are getting has a label on it saying it was coded for your version of machine. In example, if it says Xp, it may run on your Vista machine, but no guarantees. And you definitely don't want to install your Vista software into your XP machine. If the program does not make reference to your system at all, well assume the company that makes the program is too cheap to buy the proper blueprints for your Operating System (OS) from Microsoft and avoid it all together- it could potentially turn a "great weekend" into a tech support call and a drawn out nightmare as you try to unravel the mess it made when it was installed.

Things to Avoid:

Third rate programs and Peer to Peer (P2P) programs. They could be malicious, or contain viruses and the like. If you need to cut the budget on your program purchases, go to manufacturer websites and retail sites and look for boxed sets on sale. (It is very common)

Great Options:

There are many FREEWARE products on the Internet. Freeware and Open Source software is state of the art products that can be used without PURCHASE. Generally these programs are made by helpful Tech Gurus and placed free to the public in rebellion to big money companies and they generally function even better than BRANDED versions. And its free.

Installations:

Be sure that if you are installing a full version of a program, that you fully remove the old version off your machine first to avoid program corruptions. Example, if I had a trial of OFFICE, I would go into the Programs and Features (for Vista) or Add and Remove programs (for XP) and uninstall it, and restart my computer. Then install my copy from disc.

The other option would be to go into the Trial you have now, and click on subscribe and in here will usually be an option to put in your product key from your purchased version. Enter the key and you don't have to muss and fuss with uninstalls etc etc.

WARNING: This should never, never be done with ANTIVIRUS or computer protection software, be sure to remove the old version completely before installing a new one, and don't ever trust the program to remove the old copy correctly. YOU WILL HAVE PROBLEMS.

BIT SYSTEM TYPES:

Well there is two things to think of here. The Processor type itself and then the BIT speeds of your Operating System (OS).

Information on Bits :

32 Bit Information

64 bit Information

Let us start at the top. The Bit speed on the computers processor is important for operating speed. The latest and greatest would be a 64 Bit processor, with Duel Core technology.This is perfect and you will notice a huge speed difference in performance from the older versions we had grown to love.

The thing to look out for here is (once again) retailers pushing 64 Bit Operating Systems (OS) onto people that have no clue at all what they are getting into. Let me explain.

32 Bit system:

The programs transfer and communication rate should match what you have for a system itself to sync the two harmoniously. 32 Bit programs are what nearly all software developers are making and putting on the store shelves and on the Internet. If you want few nightmares, you want at best - a 64 Bit Processor (Duel core) using a 32 Bit Operating System.

64 Bit system:

If you don't work for Pixar, or Disney, and have the habit of running KAD (more here on Kad), and spend all your earnings on software that itself costs the same as a used car that is LABELED in bold 64 Bit then you want to avoid this like the plague. Go ahead, please, when a retailer offers you a 64 Bit system, ask them if they are stupid or just trying to UP SELL and ruin your life. Companies are not in the habit of making 64 Bit programs, and your software collection at home is not going to run and function correctly on this type of machine. I would like to point out however, the new 64bit Windows 7 machines are not that far out of the park and will be great for you in this season. They have worked out a lot of the 64bit issues.

A good spot to find and figure out what is available on a 64 bit machine: 64x Software Store

When a retailer offers you 64 Bit, they probably don't know what they are talking about. Just know the new machines are running Windows 7 and it will be alright. On top of this we have a very cool new toy called the XP Emulator, and look for an article soon on that. That solves the program compatibility issue once and for all.

EXTERNAL HARD DRIVES and BACKUP SOLUTIONS:

Well having a backup solution is the PRIMARY responsibility of the computers owner. If you run a home business and or freelance using your home machine or laptop and you do not have a regular back-up solution or plan, then well I am sorry- your not very prepared and you deserve everything you get. I.E. Data loss.

BACKUP OPTIONS:

It is YOUR job as a computer user that stores anything important on your machine to back this information up. Meaning make copies somewhere.

We all have multiple copies of our social Security cards, and birth certificates and every other "paper" document that's worth keeping safe forever, the same applies to your computer data and files. If you have a DATA backup solution and a good copy of your RECOVERY media for your brand of machine and its system, then you are now UNTOUCHABLE by system failure, corruption and even DATA loss.

Flash drive/ Thumb drive:

This is the most common among college students and very very easy and effective. Also very cost effective. One problem- absolutely for no reason do you ever want to get your FLASH drive near a magnet, say good bye to everything on it. You can get these now from sizes as small as 256 mega bites up to 100 Gigabytes. And they can cost now anywhere from (depending on size) $10.00 to $200.00 and can be found at any tech store. I recommend radio shack for their "no questions asked" 30 day return policy, and they are very helpful, you are not JUST a number to them and are actually treated like a human with questions and concerns.

They are also generally very honest, and will let you know if they don't know what you are talking about or if they don't carry what your looking for.

External Hard drives:

With the change in technology you have several options here. There is the old and friendly SATA drives we are all familiar with and the new Solid State drives which are basically really big Flash/ Thumb drives in essence - no moving parts.

SATA HDD:

They generally have an external power source and plug into your USB port. Again all sizes available and they usually come with an auto backup system software built in. Price varies by its size and extras. These have moving internal parts and if dropped can cause the HEADS to magnetically stick to the reading surface inside causing failure and destruction. These will also die over time from mechanical failure, (a natural act for any device with mechanical and moving parts, including us).

SOLID STATE HDD:

Basically the latest in technology, where it works and looks like the old Sata HDD, but is lighter, and holds more and instead of mechanical failures, you should be more concerned with just keeping it away from magnets. They cost a lot more but are more portable and have a faster DATA transfer rate. (suggested if you have the money)

WEB Backups:
A huge new industry, and this is becoming more and more of a standard in the industry- backing up your data onto the Internet into a VIRTUAL database. There is something really nice about this as well (without having to carry an external HDD around) you can go to Mom's house and access your storage (on the Internet ) from her home computer, and simply download all those photos of the kids and that recipe for oatmeal cookies. No fuss, these are paid services, however you can find some free options for photo and song backups like this, a good example for Photos that's free - I use www.photobucket.com
 

WHO/ WHAT/ WHERE/ WHEN WARRANTY'S:

This is a very simple thing to understand, a computer is not a cellphone- KNOW your warranty for your computer. Without extra purchased warranty's you are not getting FREE repairs when you drop your machine down the stairs, or dump your coffee into the keyboard. Don't be surprised when the Tech agent says "That's going to cost $659.68..."

Realize some repair costs are going to cost more than your machine if it needs to be fixed and that is because of the following metric: (I lay this out very good here I might add)

- My Motherboard has failed and I am Out of Warranty:

Agent explains : Cost 600.00

- But I only paid $500.00 for the whole machine!!

BREAKDOWN:

-Shipping and Receiving : internal mail handlers and postal fees and rates

-Labor to rip the old part out

-The cost of the replacement part

-Labor to put the new part in

-Overhead costs (micromanaged) costs to maintain the service center

a) rent

b) electricity

c) insurance for workers

-Return Shipping : internal mail handlers and postal fees and rates

Overall cost to the manufacturer: 600.00

RETAILER WARRANTY'S:

Here are some tips: KNOW WHAT THE RETAILERS WARRANTY COVERS

Retailer warranty's don't start usually until the manufacturers warranty expires~

Retailer warranty's generally don't cover software issues, only hardware failures

If you take your machine to them they are likely to bill you for software repairs

If it is something big and complicated, they are going to mail it to the manufacturer

(this means your retailer is now a middle man)

They take your machine and make repairs and there is no real interaction, and with this also comes lack of understanding and knowledge as to the solution to the problem or how to avoid similar issues in the future. Your just as clueless in the end as the beginning, they'll see you again.

MANUFACTURER WARRANTY'S:

Here are some tips: KNOW WHAT THE WARRANTY COVERS

The manufacturers warranty is automatic and generally covers you for a year

Extended service plans are generally one year less than stated, meaning they are an extension not actual coverage for the term. Example: a 3 year extended warranty is actually a 2 year extension of your warranty not 3 years of warranty. Yes confusing.

Manufacturers offer hardware and software support

Software support is done through troubleshooting on the phone or in some cases in-home support, which can sometimes cost an added fee for a person to come to your house.

You learn more about your machine by being involved, you don't just take your child to the doctor and say here fix them. You get involved and want to know how to protect them and keep the problem from happening again. Don't do any less for your computer.

You will get more from the manufacturer than from a retailer, despite what retailers say~

TWO TYPES of WARRANTY:

ADP - accidental damage, which generally covers, breaks, drops, minor water damage and power surges that cause damage to the internal components.This is very important if you are moving around with your machine a lot. If you are then you want to protect the machine from enviromental dangers and get this type of warranty.

STANDARD- covers hardware failures (not wear and tare from usage)

(Manufacturers generally add software support on this which is golden)

DIFFERENCES in service:

Retail:

They are generally low paid counter people and run their diagnostics through "formated" steppe processes and only encounter a "controled" group of people and their issues and in very small quantities, so exposure to commonalities in trouble shooting is low to none.

Compare them to a Children's doctor with a small clinic.

Manufacturer:

Techs are higher paid advanced trouble shooters and certified A+ agents and are geared in all ranges of hardware and software support. Networking and setup processes, dealing with all levels of different companies one on one from Microsoft to Linksys and Net gear, or Norton and Trend Micro. One agent handles 100's of cases a week, and in the big picture they know that a computer is 98% the software operating environment, and have to troubleshoot to prove functionality of the machines hardware and software functionality.

Compare them to a M.A.S.H. unit in a War Zone.

Retailers call the manufacturers tech support, tech agents call tech support. In the end these agents are the frontline of true chaos and mayhem and its their job to sort it out and make things better for all involved. Yes you'll have a few bad encounters, but rotten apples are in every Field of service, from the local and state government all the way down to the grill line at McDonald's.

OTHER DEVICES:

Hmm, what dictates another device? Well, anything that is going to plug into, Sync to or extend the environment or user interface of someones machine.

There is one main rule here, before buying know what your getting. See a trend here?

If its a ROUTER to make your home network, be sure it is compatible with what your running at home, don't just trust a retailer to know, or a friend- research and get some answers and compare.

Just a small note on Blue ray Players, and that is that the industry is presently fighting over who is going to own and imprint the UNIVERSAL format.
What is that you ask? Well this is the code that the Blue Ray disc runs on or the (Firmware), this is kind of a battle between big companies right now and many of them are making their own machine that run and play only their formatted DVD's. This is a BIG problem. What this is can only be compared to Lord of the Rings, where they all want the ring so that "they" can rule the universe. In this wave of greed, power and control, you could buy a Blue ray device that won't play your discs from Walmart. Be warned.

External User Interfaces:

Web cams and the like along with Air cards can change the way your machine works and operates, again know what your buying and know what your installing. Air cards are a last resort choice for someone whos only other option was dial-up service. They are not fast and stable and I do not advise ever doing updates or downloads for your system while using these, find an Internet wire to plug into at a friend or family members house for your system updates. Otherwise your running a risk of getting corrupted file downloads and that can cause 858994835038 issues.

Microsoft Mice (wireless):

Great alternative to a touch pad, however the wireless mouse they released constantly sends a signal to your computer and causes the screen saver to never come on. When buying Microsoft hardware devices, be sure to research, I have had many reported issues with their devices, and in my opinion, they should just stick to making software that works.

I appreciate your feedbacks, comments and suggestions, Happy Holidays 2009!
Smart shopping to you and yours!~

Use the comments box below or email me at : pcspyder@gmail.com
Stephen

Welcome to Windows 7

Well folks the time has come and Windows 7 is off and running. We are finding a few things here and there that are causing some minor issues. Let me explain all this right quick.

First off the UPGRADE is nothing near the experience I am having with my machines at home with Windows 7 and to make this easier whenever I mention Windows 7 - instead of writting it all out I am simply going to put W7, you'll get the picture. I will get to the point eventually sorry.

OVERALL EXPERIENCE:
Overall the W7 experience is going to be a good change for us America. However just as in any transition, they can't get it all right and alot of this falls on the Manufacturers of our Printers and other software just as normal. When an Operating System (OS) comes out the people that make mice and keyboards and printers and scanners and other software are FORCED to get on the ball and program new code for your new OS and their stuff so that it will work correctly.

They have one of two choices. Spend a ton of money on Microsofts System Maps, or have their programers rip through the system code and figure out where they fit into the big picture. Obviously the later is the least expensive and is the most common route that these people take. Not having available updates and patches for their stuff until they have tons of people complaining and boycotting their products. So if your stuff isn't working, don't blam Microsoft, blame the company whose device doesn't have an upgraded W7 patch or software fix made for it yet. They are the ones not doing what they should be. Because they are, well... cheap.

PRINTING and FAX:
I have a Lexmark X1270 printer scanner combo for my art and printing documents. I'll tell you folks, my unit is several years old and look, on the lexmark site, theres an updated version of my software for W7 on their site! Yeah! So I found my machine on their site, and then looked for driver updates. There it was. I installed and it offered to remove my old stuff and it did. Then i restarted and installed the new stuff. It saved it to my Downloads, and then did the install and restarted my machine and walla. Lexmark back online. Very easy, simply find the main web location of your printer and search your model. If the company is not cheap and on the ball, as Lexmark; there will be updated software there waiting for you.

PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY:
Old programs I have found will run on  W7. I have tested this. Now the pixel rate on old programs runs in 800x600 very old school. But I have installed and run old Windows 95 stuff without any problems other that the graphics are a little weird unless you chage your display to 800x600. Not a big deal. The point is it IS backward compatible. For those needing more function out of their old programs, see the XP emulator later in this article. But yes OLD programs do work.

OLD HARDWARE and the XP emulator:
On some of the Premium and greater versions of W7 you have what is called an XP Emulator. This allows you to run programs that don't run properly in W7. There are not many but people seem to still own a few. This is your solution. Most manufacturers will not assist with you using the emulator so you'll have to play around with it and see how it functions. Any feedback to me on this would be great as I don't have this Emulator on my version of W7- Testers. It is said to be a virtual Xp machine built into W7 and I would like to know more.

On the topic of old hardware, all I have to say is I installed my old 1998 webcam, and W7 found the driver for it that my Xp machine couldn't find for 6 years. So hope of old hardware working again is bright.

UPGRADE vs CLEAN INSTALL:
One thing I have mentioned to people, at work, at home and in the field is that if you want the BEST of what W7 has to offer than AVOID the UPGRADE! An upgrade is a nasty word in my world. It says I am taking something I don't really want and I am intergrating it into something I do want. This means you are KEEPING the same old garbage system to a degree to avoid moving files etc. Don't do it!

When you do an upgrade you are basically taking two decks of cards, Vista on one side and W7 on the other and shuffling them together really fast. I know when I do this with a deck of cards, I drop a bunch of them. This is your data and system information we are dropping. Not to mention security software and your user accounts are being shuffled too. You are setting up for a BAD experience.

When giving the option. Backup your Data files ONLY. Then run the disks, when it asks for upgrade or install clean, you choose the clean install. Your end result will be a better one. Like mine.

Now on a clean install it is going to save your old operating system and everything in a file called windows.old -this will be located under the C:/ drive. Once you get what you want out of there (Again data only) delete the folder and free up tons of space. Walla. Clean system and I think you'll find if you have been having issues previously after the UPGRADE, they will go by-by.

WLAN issues on Upgrade:
Important on the Notebook/ Laptop front. The Wlan intergrated wireless is reporting major issues resyncing to the machine after the windows 7 Upgrade. Again, I think this is not only software not properly being updated, but also a combination of the upgrade itself instead of a clean install. At this point there is not a solution to this, and this effects the smaller machines that have the WLAN card in them, that offer AT&T or Verizon service on wireless. This is a big issue nd is being address. What can you do in the meantime? A clean W7 install instead of an UPGRADE. Again this is done with the same disk you got for the Upgrade you just select the full install option.

64bit Vista vs 64bit W7:
Oh dear lord. This is simply to state, you have 64bit! You are on the moon. Please please for all thats HOLY- DO NOT RUN AN UPGRADE! Do the clean install. You should know better from my articles. And yes it runs fine on 64bit, just do it clean and don't be lazy about saving your data, which you should have a backup solution anyways. If your already on top of this- good work.

A NEW AGE FOR HOME AND OFFICE:
Well the size of it is - the amount of troubles being reported are as expected- minimum and minor. For the most part the new system is doing what was expected and again it falls on the third party companies to update their software and firmware. I am running old programs and using old hardware on a new machine OS.
We have finally bridged the gap from Xp, thank god I am tired of the days of the point and click anyway.

A TIDBIT:
Did you hear that Apple is now putting smoke detectors in their machines? Yeah if they find smoke has been around the unit, it will void your warranty. How fun.

INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEOs and COMMENTARY:
Looking for  feedback here. Do you think I should do Video talks and chats about Tech? Do you like how I explain and would like to see more? Let me know and send a message below under the comments. Hope you all do well in the Holidays season, and remember to read the WHAT to BUY before going out and buying machines and Warrantys this year. BEWARE the RETAILERS....

Windows Update Error

WARNING!!! BLUE SCREEN ERROR ON 64bit MACHINES!

KB973879 - Windows Update was sent out to fix a Blue Screen error for 32bit systems.

On Sunday an update came through to all systems on a Windows Update and gave the people with 64bit machines a pretty blue screen when they put in their passwords.

Microsoft did not stop sending this update for over 48 hours which backed up manufacturer Tech Support lines and Retail tech stores with people afraid their machines had taken a dirt nap.

The rumor points mainly toward a huge Microsoft Layoff, and perhaps someone exacted revenge - thats just a rumor and if true they want to hope they never get caught. On the up side of this though, all Tech groups involved likely made a killing forcing people to pay for Out of Warranty Support in order to get assistance. I would note, Microsoft did not do this and did set up a toll free 800 line for the Blue Screen issue. (I couldn't find this number however and all the searches on Microsofts website led me to improper solutions to this problem.)

So do you want the fix? It is really quite easy. Who needs a support Tech when you have PC Spyder Insider.. here it is.

1) Shut your machine down.

2) Turn it on and tap F8 until "Boot Options" pops up

3) Choose "Safe Mode w/ Networking"

4) Log in

5) Go to the "Start Search" above the start button.

6) Type in "program" on the top left click on "Programs & Features"

7) Click on "View Installed Updates"

8) Find KB973879 update and "uninstall it"

9) Restart when prompted, after shutting off your wireless/ unplugging your ethernet.

10) Look your on windows start up.

11) Search Update in the "Start Search"

12) click "change settings" and change it to -

"Look for updates, but let me decide to download and install them" and apply

13) Click on "View Available Updates" and find KB973879

14) Right click it and select "hide update".

15) restart your machine.

16) walla... no more Blue Screen!

Good Luck

Stephen

Windows 7 Release

It has been revealed that Windows 7 will be released on October 22ND of 2009, as a Microsoft OS to be purchased from them or retail. You will also be able to purchase upgrades through them for both Xp and Vista, for 32 and 64bit Systems. I do have reports now that this is going to be the single greatest release from Microsoft for an operating system ever~ And have tested this system first hand. It is incredible. It has left me speechless. Check my previous experience with Windows7 on this link- Windows7 Opinion

New machines will be on store shelves installed with manufacturer copies of Windows 7 also around this time. People buying machines as of June 26Th going forward will be eligible for a FREE Windows 7 Upgrade, contact your computer manufacturer for details. Find out more about Windows 7 at this link - Windows7


Microsoft's end quote on their website says it all, but in my opinion is an understatement,

"The result? Everyday computing is
faster, simpler, easier." -


I say so simple, once you become familiar with the layout of Windows7 it will bring tears to your soul, Thank you MS!

Requested Tidbits

INTRO -
I have had requests from some of our readers in relation to several topics, and I am posting a new page. I know it has been awhile. As a little bit on me, I have been very busy with the up coming release of Windows 7 and would like to report that it is also known now that it operates perfect for both 32bit and 64bit systems, as before I had said I did not have enough Data to make an opinion. The ticker tape is in and it operates quite well for both systems, now we prepare ourselves for the 128bit systems of the future. I am adding a few tidbits here as by request and I hope you all enjoy. And as always you know I love to answer questions and feedback. You can do so many ways, either through e-mail, the live chat or message system link on the right, or even through my face book as several of you have added yourselves to my friends list. Thank you all for your input and questions, without which I would not have even started this massive project that grows every time I touch it.


The Miracle of Data

I had a request to explain how Data on a computer is read in the most basic of terms one day over a phone support call. Here is a request for that information as I can best explain in layman's terms. Feel free to look for more technical information on that on this link - (CLICK HERE).

My description focused on how data was stored on a computer, not so much the technical involvement of Bits and Bytes, but the physical methods used to STORE the data on a computer. It is quite miraculous the way this is done. I am about to give the simplest breakdown of how this is done, and it will hopefully open your eyes to the true wonder of what has become a modern phenomenon brought on by the hands of human creation and invention.


FIRST we start at the Hard Disc or the "Hard Drive" this is the core of all your stored information on your computer. The hard Drive is a vital organ in the operation of everything on your machine as it is storage or "Memory" for your computers programs, Data (i.e. pictures, music, video, documents and the like) and the Drivers that allow your computers "Brain" or Processor to talk to all the other Hardware on your Computer (i.e. Speakers, Monitor, DVD Drives and other Physical components).

This Data is what we are focusing on in this section. How does the computer STORE this information? This is the Miracle itself. It starts with a very simple concept of Positive and Negative electromagnetic charges. Lets try and break this down a little so it is easier to understand, we have to begin with the language itself - Binary. More on Binary is on the Click Here link just above in the first segment for those wanting to "Know more technical stuff".

So in basic we start with a small part of Data. And for arguments sake lets just break down how one single letter of the alphabet is stored on your machine. Lets say we open a word or text document and type the letter "A", one single letter, how is this stored?

Well in code the letter "A" as in all letters in the alphabet and all numbers are identified by a series of 0's and 1's. These zero's and one's represent as grouping of "on" and "off" codes that in a series equals the capital letter "A". The binary code for this is: 01000001

You can have fun and find out what the Binary is for anything using one of these cool binary translators at this link - (CLICK HERE). You can type in a phrase or a word and click "encode" and it will give you the Binary translation of it. This is the "code" your computer uses to store information. It does not store the letter "A" on your hard drive when you type it and save it, it actually saves the Binary translation which in this case is 01000001, meaning "A". So this many numbers to save a single letter? Yes. But the way it is stored, the size of these numbers are not important, because this breaks down even further. As an example, Pcspyder in Binary is written to the hard drive as: 01010000 01100011 01110011 01110000 01111001 01100100 01100101 01110010 . 8 0's and 1's, a series of "on" and "off" for every letter in the word. Programs and other data on your computer is also saved in this same method. This is where data is broken into Bits and Bytes as seen on the Tech links I have been adding as we go for those trying to put my info here together with what is on the information pages.

Now back to the magnetic part. All these 0's and 1's are then written to your Hard Drive using positive and negative magnetic charges on the Hard Disk. So a zero is saved as a magnetic stamp on your hard Drive. This explains why people always say keep your computer away from magnets and static electricity, because those two things are the NATURAL enemy of your Data on your Hard drive. If your hard Drive is hit by such an attack, its magnetic data can be altered, thus causing the magnetic charges to become corrupted with "FALSE" information.

So everything on your computer is stored in a series of 0's and 1's in form of a magnetic charge on your hard drive and that's the sum of it, in the simplest terms I can muster. So your computers NATURAL enemy is magnetic fields and static electricity.

Cookies what are they? What's the best way to clean them out?

Mmmm... My favorite cookies in the whole world would have to be Peanut butter ones. Another reader asked how to delete their cookies, and I am going to explain that here and also the ups and downs about cookies. And as our reader explained, we are not talking about the baked ones but it is fun to play with words a little. Mmmm peanut Butter~

Cookies are a way for websites to help your computer remember where you have been and allow your web browser to pull up like pages quickly and efficiently. Some cookies can be bad and some can be good and others can be absolutely necessary. In example, your online banking in a lot of cases will plug in cookies to know that it is you that is trying to access your online bank account and not some schmuck down the road. More on Cookies for the techies can be found on this link (CLICK HERE).

Is it OK to clean out your cookies? Well yes. If it removes the cookies you use to gain access to saved and secure websites, when you log in again, it will restore them as needed. So no worries about getting locked out of your online bank account but you will have to log in again all fresh and new to return your sites cookie to remember your visit.

The BEST tool I have found for cleaning out my cookies and the like is the CCleaner tool and you can get the download on the links to the right. It is free and the programmer makes his living on donations, so if you have an extra dollar here or there, don't forget them so that these awesome types of free programs can continue to be available to us.

There is also a built in system that is standard in all windows computers called "Disk Cleanup", which on Xp machines is found in Start button then All Programs, then accessories and into the System tools. For Vista (I love the ease of Vista) simply type in disk cleanup in the Start Search and it is right there in the top left. Click on it and run it and it will give you options of what you want to clean out, I suggest everything it offers, you'll regain a lot of space back and it should speed your machine up a little as well.

The bad side of cookies is that malicious programs and other parasitic organisms in our new data world like to track what you are doing and the like. one good example is covered in my other articles on Rogue ware and Toolbars of Death. Also in the links to the right.

Battery, Hibernation, Sleep Modes, Power Options and Modders -

Ok, another reader thought it would be nice for me to share my input on Hibernation, sleep modes and battery life. And here is the scoop. In my honest opinion there is two different situations to look at on this topic. Both pan out the same in my world.

A computer Laptop or Notebook and a Desktop have one major thing in common, windows run time environment. In my opinion is extremely flawed in the aspect of the Power options called the hibernate and sleep mode functions. These settings can be found in Power Options in the control panel. In the advanced options you can turn off the Hibernate and sleep mode functions which on a lot of laptops cause the machine to go to sleep and not wake up. It is a known flaw in the windows software and not very publicized to the masses. As we know, they refuse to admit their own flaws, much like any billion dollar company.

If you have a Laptop you should always turn it off if you are away from the machine for more than an hour. A laptop is not MEANT to be on for more than 4-5 hours at a time, nor are they designed to modify their operating environment. When you BUY a laptop, they are a molded machine and not made to be altered. I talk to a lot of people that try making their laptop into a gaming machine or some dual boot monster. This is not the correct approach.

Machines that are made a certain way can not be properly altered to do higher end tasks that these self made computer gurus are attempting with their "branded" machines. I call these people "Modders". A Modder is a person that is trying to bend the laws of corporate physics by making their machine do or become something it was not built to do.

A laptop of any size or shape is not a GAMING machine EVER. It also is not meant to be altered in a way for whats called Dual Booting separate operating systems. If you are into this kind of stuff spend half the money and build a machine that is half the cost and can do everything you want without having to wrestle with "Big brother" corporate machines stamped units.

Less money more power and more control. If you are a person that falls in this category, let me know via e-mail what you really want to do and I can guarantee I can build such machine at 1/3 the cost you'll find on any corporate website. Modders should never own prefab machines, you are limiting yourself for more money than its worth and no result but disappointment.

If your worried about your laptops battery life, then use your battery more often. Always keep your battery plugged in and use it on a regular basis. Your battery will live longer by using it. Letting it charge and then running it down so it can recharge again. Just like us, you live a longer and healthier life through use and exercise, the same applies to your battery. As a note, most prefab laptops allow only one battery replacement in the first year, be sure to take advantage of this as after the warranty expires, you are going to pay upward of 150 dollars for a new one when it finally retires from service.

In short, if you want advanced performance from a computer - BUILD one, special abilities from your machine? BUILD ONE. Turn off all Windows built in Hibernate and Sleep modes on the machine through your POWER OPTIONS, and if you have a laptop, turn it OFF if your not using it and run on the battery power on a regular basis for the best experience.

System Restore use and cleanup ~

You may find yourself to be one of those people that find that your machine is constantly screaming to you that "D drive is Full". This is caused by your system restore. When your computer does a system backup restore feature, it actually saves a "picture" of your system environment on your D drive or whats called the recovery partition. This is listed under, Computer or My Computer, and you should see the C:/ and D:/ drive. The D:/ drive is actually the section of your machine you do not use, and it is actually a saved copy of your recovery disks.

With this drive is full error, you will find that the D:/ drive bar is likely to be RED. This is caused from your machine doing its backups in this area of your machine. There is limited space in this section of your machine as it is not really used unless you have to RECOVER your computer to the factory setting due to system corruptions and the like.

When it is red, all you have to do is click on the D:/ drive and delete all the files in this first window except the one labeled Recovery. Leave the recovery file and delete all the rest and then the bar will turn green again and the error will go away. The next time your machine runs a system restore it will save a new file in here for the future. Whatever you do, do NOT delete the Recovery folder, as this is a complete compressed version of your entire machine for use in case of system failures. Once this is done, you can manually create a fresh restore point right away by going into system tools and selecting system restore and clicking the option create a new restore point. You can even name it to remind you what was happening when you made it. Example, I name mine "cleaned" so know if I have to restore, this is a title I will look for knowing my machine was clean and healthy on that particular date. More on system restore here (CLICK).

Browser Efficiencies ~

Well to avoid redundancy on the browser topic read the articles to the right about cleaning up your Internet explorer.

But some things to add. One is that your machine runs on Internet explorer, even if you use Mozilla or google Chrome or the like, their connection to the Internet does so through the health and settings of your Internet explorer. In fact your desktop (the area that you first see when your machine turns on with your icons on it) is in fact an Internet explorer page without an address bar and search box on it. YOU CAN NOT REMOVE YOUR INTERNET EXPLORER - you will kill your machine. It is running on Internet explorer the moment the machine turns on.

The best way to surf the Internet is to have multiple tabs open in one browser and not having multiple windows open. And from my reports, I have found a lot of people having issues with the new Internet explorer 8. You can actually uninstall it from your machine if needed by clicking this link (click here). (click the Fix It link and then restart the computer).

Things that will kill your Internet explorer are websites that use add-on games and other things that ask - "add this" to your explorer. As an example, My Space, Face book and the like absolutely have broken my Internet explorer because of their "Add-ons" so for these types of websites I only open them using Mozilla which has no problem handling these "Add-ons".

Download Mozilla here - (click here).

A browser is simply a WINDOW into the Internet. Web based e-mail and the like are only locations IN the Internet, it does not matter what browser I use, I can access my g-mail from any of them on any computer on the planet. A browser is simply a way to "see" it. I don't have to use Internet explorer to view and interact with the Internet, but without it, my other browsers will not connect to the Internet at all, as they "USE" my explorer settings to connect to the Internet.

What I do is use my Internet explorer to connect to safe and secure websites, like my bank and Cnn and the like. I run a second browser (Mozilla) to surf the web and run my websites that run a bunch of JUNK, to prevent breaking my explorer.

Another neat feature is that I can run one yahoo email loggin and account on my Internet explorer, and another user and account name in the Mozilla, so I can see and respond to two emails at the same time and be logged into yahoo on two separate accounts at the same time using two different browsers. A very nice trick.

ROGUE WARE UPDATE:
Be on the lookout for the latest release by our Russian thieves in the Rogue ware industry, and it is going by the title of Antivirus 360, to trick our unsuspecting Norton Antivirus 360 users into clicking on them and becoming victoms of their latest release. Find out more of how to deal with rogueware by using the link on the right titled "Rogueware" and "Ccleaner Setup and operation".