Tech Talk

Google Desktop

2013-09-05T15:09:00.002-07:00

Google Desktop

Google Desktop makes searching your computer as easy as searching the web with Google. It's a desktop search application that provides full text search over your email, files, music, photos, chats, Gmail, web pages that you've viewed, and more. By making your computer searchable, Desktop puts your information easily within your reach and frees you from having to manually organize your files, emails and bookmarks.

Google Desktop doesn't just help you search your computer; it also helps you gather new information from the web and stay organized with gadgets and sidebar. Google Gadgets can be placed anywhere on your desktop to show you new email, weather, photos, personalized news, and more. Sidebar is a vertical bar on your desktop that helps you keep your gadgets organized.

Google Desktop Features

Download Google Desktop

Active Directory - Question and Answer

2013-09-05T15:01:00.003-07:00

What is Active Directory?
The Windows directory service that stores information about all objects on the computer network and makes this information easy for administrators and users to find and apply. With the Active Directory, users can gain access to resources anywhere on the network with a single logon. Similarly, administrators have a single point of administration for all objects on the network, which can be viewed in a hierarchical structure.

What is the campus Windows AD Domain?
Active Directory is the directory service in a Windows network. The directory service stores information about network resources and makes the resources accessible to users and applications. Andrew Windows includes the ad.cmu.edu forest root domain. This is the top level naming structure. Andrew Windows also includes the andrew.ad.cmu.edu domain within the forest.

What is a forest?
A forest refers to an organizational structure that is a group of one or more trusted Windows trees. A forest shares a schema and global catalog servers. A single tree can also be called a forest.

What is a tree?
A tree is basically a domain or domains connected together in a hierarchy. The trees are linked together via a two-way transitive trust, sharing a common schema, configuration, and global catalog.

What departments should consider joining the AD domain?
For departments running Netware, this is a great migration strategy. Departments interested in single sign-on andrew accounts, cross-departmental information sharing, automating machine installs via RIS and GPO's, NT4 departments, domains with limited support personnel, and departments running stand-alone Windows 2000 or 2003 Servers are some of the reasons to consider the AD domain.

How can I do a remote install of an operating system?
Many newer computers support the PXE standard that is built in the latest network adapters that will let you install an operating system. Because no CD is required you can build many machines much faster. You can also have software deployed that you've defined in a Group Policy Object.

What is the purpose of the AD password reset?
If you are accessing an Active Directory resource (such as a shared folder) from a non-Kerberos computer (Win9x, WinNT) or a non-domain machine, you are required to reset your Active Directory password. Client Machines use Kerberos referrals to get credentials from the Andrew UNIX KDC's.Therefore, machines that can not understand the Kerberos referrals need to directly set the Active Directory password.

Can I have my own AD infrastructure?
DNS Support for External Forests will be available via NetReg, and the forest structure will reside under "win.cmu.edu". Send Domain request to netdev@andrew.cmu.edu; Specifing Domain name (e.g. example.win.cmu.edu) andDomain Controllers (e.g. dc1.example.win.cmu.edu, dc2.example.win.cmu.edu).

How do I prepare to join the AD domain?
You must have administrative access to a Departmental Organizational Unit (OU). To request an Organizational Unit (OU) for your department send Email to advisor@andrew.cmu.edu. You will also want to refer the documents available on this website.

What Operating Systems are supported on the AD domain?
Only modern Windows computers and servers are permitted to be part of the AD domain.

What is an Organizational Unit (OU)?
A Windows OU is an organization unit (a directory container) for grouping similar accounts or machines. OUs are used to provide a means of delegating authority over a group of accounts or machines to a person (the local administrator).

What is inheritance, and how does it work?
Group Policy is passed down from parent to child containers within a domain, which you can view by using the Active Directory Users and Computers snap-in tool. If you assign a specific Group Policy setting to a high-level parent container, that Group Policy setting applies to all containers beneath the parent container, including the user and computer objects in each container. You can block policy inheritance at the domain or organizational-unit level by opening the properties dialog box for the domain or organizational unit and selecting the Block Policy inheritance check box.

How do I administer my OU?
From a computer that is on the AD domain you will install the the Active Directory Users and Computers snap-in tool. The tool is located on the Windows Server installation CD in the \i386 directory. Run adminpak.msi to install it.

Can departments block ou's on their parent?
Group Policy Objects applied at a parent level in Active Directory will be applied to all child objects. Currently, there is one Group Policy Objects being applied at the Domain level of the tree. The Andrew Core GPO configures domain machines to function with the core Andrew Kerberos applications (e.g. NiftyTelnet, KerbFTP, Oracle Calendar, Mulberry) and is inherited by all machines in the Andrew Domain.

You can block Top Level Group Policy Objects from being applied at the Organizational Unit (OU) level. Blocking prevents inheritance of GPO's from parent objects, but they can still be explicitly assigned at the Organizational Unit (OU) level.

What is bridgehead server?
A bridgehead server is a domain controller in each site, which is used as a contact point to receive and replicate data between sites. For intersite replication, KCC designates one of the domain controllers as a bridgehead server. In case the server is down, KCC designates another one from the domain controller. When a bridgehead server receives replication updates from another site, it replicates the data to the other domain controllers within its site.

What is universal group membership caching?
Universal group membership caching is a feature of Windows 2003, which reduces the need of placing Global Catalog servers at all the remote locations for user authentication. The universal group membership caching feature can be enabled on any domain controller in a site. The domain controller, with universal group membership caching enabled, contacts a Global Catalog server whenever a user attempts to log on for the first time. The server then caches the user information locally and uses this information to authenticate the user the next time he attempts to log on. Note: Universal group membership caching can handle only the logon authentication part of a Global Catalog server. It is not capable of handling directory-wide queries.

What is GPO?
Group policy object (GPO) is a collection of group policy settings. It can be created using a Windows utility known as the Group Policy snap-in. GPO affects the user and computer accounts located in sites, domains, and organizational units (OUs). The Windows 2000/2003 operating system supports two types of GPOs, local and non-local (Active Directory-based) GPOs.

What is Active Directory schema?

What are the domain functional level in Windows Server 2003?

What are the forest functional level in Windows Server 2003?

What is global catalog server?

How we can raise domain functional & forest functional level in Windows Server 2003?

Which is the deafult protocol used in directory services?

What is IPv6?

What is the default domain functional level in Windows Server 2003?

What are the physical & logical components of ADS

In which domain functional level, we can rename domain name?

What is multimaster replication?

What is a site?

Which is the command used to remove active directory from a domain controller?

How we can create console, which contain schema?

What is trust?

What is the file that’s responsible for keep all Active Directory database?

What is FileZilla?

2013-09-05T15:01:00.001-07:00

FileZilla is a free FTP solution with FTP client and FTP server programs developed by Kim Kosse. FileZilla supports FTP, FTPS and SFTP protocols and multiple platforms: Windows, Linux, Mac OS X and more. FileZilla is open source software distributed under the terms of the GNU General Public License.

Filezilla is a pair of programs, an FTP server and an FTP client. They are used for transferring files over a network. The software is legal. Transferring files may or may not be depending on if they are protected by copyright or not and (if they are) if the owner of the copyright has granted permission.

Download FileZilla from here : http://filezilla-project.org/index.php

How to start windows in Safe Mode?

2013-09-05T14:59:00.001-07:00

Common Method to start windows in Safe Mode:

1) Start the computer, if it's already running, reboot it.
2) After the POST (Power On Selt Test) and before windows's loading, type several times the F8 (or F5) key
3) The Windows Advanced Options Menu appears
4) Select "safe mode" using the up and down key, Press "Enter"
5) Accept any question

Another way, using the System Configuration Utility:

1)Start Windows
2)Go to Start Menu => Run
3)Tape msconfig and press Enter
4)The System Configuration Utility appears
5)Go to BOOT.INI tab
6)Check the "/SAFEBOOT" option
7)Save and restart the computer
8)Your computer will restart in Safe mode.

What is SSL?

2013-09-05T14:58:00.001-07:00

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is the standard security technology for establishing an encrypted link between a web server and a browser. This link ensures that all data passed between the web server and browsers remain private and integral. SSL is an industry standard and is used by millions of websites in the protection of their online transactions with their customers.

To be able to create an SSL connection a web server requires an SSL Certificate. When you choose to activate SSL on your web server you will be prompted to complete a number of questions about the identity of your website and your company. Your web server then creates two cryptographic keys - a Private Key and a Public Key.

The Public Key does not need to be secret and is placed into a Certificate Signing Request (CSR) - a data file also containing your details. You should then submit the CSR. During the SSL Certificate application process, the Certification Authority will validate your details and issue an SSL Certificate containing your details and allowing you to use SSL. Your web server will match your issued SSL Certificate to your Private Key. Your web server will then be able to establish an encrypted link between the website and your customer's web browser.

The complexities of the SSL protocol remain invisible to your customers. Instead their browsers provide them with a key indicator to let them know they are currently protected by an SSL encrypted session - the lock icon in the lower right-hand corner, clicking on the lock icon displays your SSL Certificate and the details about it. All SSL Certificates are issued to either companies or legally accountable individuals.

Typically an SSL Certificate will contain your domain name, your company name, your address, your city, your state and your country. It will also contain the expiration date of the Certificate and details of the Certification Authority responsible for the issuance of the Certificate. When a browser connects to a secure site it will retrieve the site's SSL Certificate and check that it has not expired, it has been issued by a Certification Authority the browser trusts, and that it is being used by the website for which it has been issued. If it fails on any one of these checks the browser will display a warning to the end user letting them know that the site is not secured by SSL.

Authentication Vs Authorization

2013-09-05T14:57:00.003-07:00

“Authenticating users” means determining a user really is who he or she says (verifying the identity of a user). This is often done using a shared secret such as a password.

“Authorizing users” means granting or restricting access to a specific user who has identified himself or herself. For example, clients in an administrative role are often granted more access than clients in a role as simple users.

Single Click Shutdown in Windows

2013-09-05T14:57:00.001-07:00

Did you know that in Windows XP you can shut down your computer from the (eventually DOS prompt) command line box? Moreover, you can do this by clicking your mouse only once.

All you need to do is... right-click on an empty Desktop spot -> select New -> Shortcut -> type shutdown followed by a space, and then enter one or more of the parameters listed below -> click Next -> type a suggestive name for your new shortcut -> finally, click Finish.

This is the Shutdown.exe (located in %systemroot%\System32, usually C:\Windows\System32) syntax:

shutdown [-i|-l|-s|-r|-a] [-f] [-m \\computername] [-t xx] [-c "Text"] [-d[p]:xx:yy]>

Valid command line switches:

-a = Abort system shutdown in progress ONLY IF the -t xx timeout option was already set to ANY value other than 0. ALL switches except -l and -m are ignored during abort.

-c "Text" = Text comment (case insensitive) to be displayed in the Message area of the System Shutdown window. MUST be enclosed between quotes. Maximum allowed 127 ASCII characters.

-d [p]:xx:yy = Reason code for shutdown:
u = User code.
p = Planned shutdown code.
xx = Major reason code. Positive integer number less than 256.
yy = Minor reason code. Positive integer number less than 65536.

-f = Force running applications to close without warning.

-i = Display the shutdown interface (GUI). MUST be the first option!

-l = Log off the current user of the local computer (default action). Can NOT be used with the -m option unless the current user has Sysadmin rights, in which case the -m switch takes precedence.
-m \\computername = Remote/network computer name (most always case sensitive) to log off/restart/shut down. Current user MUST have Sysadmin rights to be allowed to use this switch!

-s = Shut down the local computer.

-r = Shut down and restart (reboot) the local computer.

-t xx = Set shutdown timer to timeout for xx seconds. IF NOT specified defaults to 20 seconds. Allowed values between 0 and 99 seconds. The -a switch is the ONLY one that CAN be used during the timeout period.

NOTES:
The dash (-) in front of these switches can be replaced by a forward slash (/).

Spaces are NOT required to separate the shutdown command from ANY following switches, but ARE required to separate ANY switch from its following parameter(s), if any.
For example:

shutdown -s -c "Shutting down!" -t 3

tells your computer to shutdown after waiting for 3 seconds while the System Shutdown window will display text above in the Message area.

Optional: after you're done creating your customized shortcut for shutdown -> right-click on it -> select Properties -> enter your desired key "combo" in the Shortcut Key box (e.g. Ctrl + Alt + End) -> click OK/Apply.
From now on just left-click on your shutdown shortcut or hit that key combination to turn off/restart/log off your computer.

DHCP Process Model

2013-09-05T14:52:00.001-07:00

When a PC is powered up, it doesn't know the address of the DHCP server, so it can't talk to it, and the PC itself doesn't have an IP address, so it can't receive any replies anyway. So how does the PC manage to get the DHCP process started?

The answer is that the very earliest stages of DHCP Discovery are done by broadcast in both directions. The PC broadcasts (to IP address 255.255.255.255) a request for any DHCP server to reply, with a random number in the request. In a cable network, this broadcast is picked up by the UBR at the cable ISP's head-end. The UBR is not itself a DHCP server, but acts as a DHCP Agent (see RFC 2131). The DHCP Agent passes the PC's request to the real DHCP server elsewhere in the ISP's network. The DHCP server constructs a reply packet, including the same random number as in the request, and sends it back to the DHCP Agent in the UBR. The UBR then broadcasts the reply into the local cable network downstream (so that every connected PC receives it!). Our PC listens on the network for DHCP replies, and when it sees one with the same random number as it first sent, it takes the reply in and extracts the configuration data from it.

It is the stage of the broadcast reply from the UBR DHCP Agent which causes most problems with user-configured firewalls, particularly when a PC re-awakes after Standby. On re-awakening, the PC reverts to broadcast DHCP discovery, and the reply from the UBR DHCP Agent can appear to be a hostile probe, which is blocked, because the firewall is already installed and running. See Personal Firewall Configuration for Cable Modems for instructions for avoiding this problem.

One of the configuration items is the IP address of the real DHCP server, so that all future DHCP transactions, including periodic lease renewals, can be sent directly to the real DHCP server, not by broadcast.

Windows XP : Q&A

2013-09-05T14:51:00.002-07:00

Q: What is Windows XP?
A: Windows Whistler is the codename for the first joint business/consumer version of Windows built on the Windows 2000 OS kernel for stability and reliability. To bring the reliability of Windows 2000 to consumers as soon as possible and address the feedback from enterprise customers, Microsoft planned a phased release of Windows XP beginning with the desktop products and followed by the server versions. Windows XP is their first step in the Microsoft .Net vision.

Q: Is Microsoft Windows XP available in multiple languages?
A: Windows XP Professional will be available in 24 official localized versions in addition to English. In any version of Windows XP Professional, you can display, input, edit, and print documents in hundreds of languages. Users or administrators can set regional preferences, fonts, keyboard layouts, sorting orders, date formats, and so on.

The biggest innovation for multilingual computing is the Windows XP Multilingual User Interface Pack, which is an add–on to the English version of Windows XP Professional. It lets users or administrators switch the User Interface (menus, dialogs and help files) from one language to another. This feature greatly eases desktop administration in multilingual computing environments, and lowers cost of desktop change and configuration management considerably. The Multilingual User Interface Pack will be available in 33 languages.

Q: What version of DirectX does Windows XP ship with?
A: Windows XP ships with DirectX 8.1, which improves pixel shaders among other things.

Q: What is the difference between the 32 bit and 64 bit versions?
A: The 64-bit versions will only work on newer Intel Itanium based hardware. The 32-bit versions will work on all x86 compatible hardware (such a Pentium III, 4, etc).

Q: What is the official website?
A: http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp

Q: What is "Whistler Embedded"?
A: "Whistler Embedded" delivers all the richness, innovation and reliability of the next generation of Windows in a componentized version, enabling embedded developers to select specific technology components required for a wide range of unique Windows Powered devices. Beta 1 is focused on delivering embedded client scenarios, including Windows-based terminals, advanced set-top boxes and retail point-of-sale kiosks. With the release of "Whistler Embedded" beta 1 coming only 48 days after release of the "Whistler" beta, Microsoft underscores its commitment to bringing the latest, most innovative Windows technology to the embedded space in a timely manner."

Q: When was Windows XP released?
A: October 25, 2001

Q: When did Windows XP RTM?
A: August 24, 2001

Q: What features of Windows XP have been taken from Windows Me?
A: Features such as System Restore, Image acquisition and more. Most of the new multimedia features in Windows Me will be carried over to Windows XP.

Q: What is new in Windows XP?
A: Microsoft is aiming to combine the features of Windows Me for the consumer, and reliability of Windows 2000 for businesses and power users into one new operating system. This operating system in its' different flavors will have new features for gaming, multimedia applications, audio, etc. in addition to features for networking, development, etc. for businesses and power users.

Q: What flavors is Windows XP available in?
A: Windows XP comes in Professional and Home versions. Servers will also come out, but they are still in beta testing.

Q: What is the difference between Home and Profession editions?
A: The features of Windows XP Home and Pro are very similar. Most home users have no need to the Professional version. Windows XP Pro has support for multiple processors and an encrypted file system.

Q: What are the major new features?
A: Windows XP has many new features. Users upgrading from the 9x code will find the larges changes in terms of stability. Other great advances are built-in CD-R/RW support, Remote Assistance, a built-in firewall, and Device Driver Rollback.

Q: What are the minimum requirements?

Here’s exactly what Microsoft says:

PC with 300 megahertz (MHz) or higher processor clock speed recommended; 233-MHz minimum required;* Intel Pentium/Celeron family, AMD K6/Athlon/Duron family, or compatible processor recommended
128 megabytes (MB) of RAM or higher recommended (64 MB minimum supported; may limit performance and some features)
1.5 gigabyte (GB) of available hard disk space.*
Super VGA (800 × 600) or higher resolution video adapter and monitor
CD-ROM or DVD drive
Keyboard and Microsoft Mouse or compatible pointing device
You can check out more information on Windows XP requirements here for Home or here for Pro.

Q: What is Windows XP pricing?
A: Windows XP Home is $99 for an upgrade copy and $199 for the full version. Windows XP Pro is $199 for the upgrade version and $299 for a full copy.

Q: What are the upgrade paths?
A: Both Home and Professional can be upgraded from Windows 98, Windows 98SE, and Windows ME. Windows NT 4.0, Windows 2000 and Windows XP Home can all be upgraded to Windows XP Professional. Windows 95 is not a supported upgrade path from either version.

Q: What’s next for Windows development?
A: With SP1 complete, Microsoft will be working on Longhorn, the next consumer version of Windows. Longhorn isn't expected to hit stores till 2004 or later (probably later), so expect a second service pack in the works soon!

Q: What were the milestones in Windows XP development?
A: There were 6 major steps in the development of Windows XP:

Beta 1 – October 31, 2000, build 2296
Beta 2 – March 25, 2001, build 2462a
RC1 – June 29, 2001, build 2505
RC2 – July 28, 2001, build 2526
RTM – August 24, 2001, build 5.10.2600
SP1 RTM - August 30, 2002
Q: Does Windows XP have a new Graphic User Interface (GUI)?
A: Yes, Windows XP will have a "newer" look to it but will still have the basics of Windows we have grown accustomed to. The one that is debuted at the EMP is the "Luna" theme.

Q: When was SP1 released?
A: SP1 went RTM on August 30, 2002 and was released to the public on September 9, 2002.

Q: What features does SP1 include?
A: Although Microsoft has developed a habit of not including new features, Windows XP SP1 was an exception to that rule. It included support for USB 2.0 and included a nifty, government-required tool that will let you hide MS products, if you want. It also included support for other version of Windows, like Media Center and Windows Powered Smart Displays editions (codenames Freestyle and Mira, respectively). Windows XP SP1 also includes bug fixes and other general improvements.

Q: Where can I download SP1?
A: SP1 should be available to download from Windows Update, but if you would like to order a CD or download the entire file, both can be obtained from Microsoft's website.

Q: When is SP2 coming?
A: Windows XP Service Pack 2 is currently scheduled to come out during the summer of 2004. It currently is in beta testing.

Q: What additions will SP2 bring?
A: Along with the usual bug fixes, Service Pack two will bring a number of new features to Windows XP. Most of the additions deal with security. Along with ushering in version 5 of Windows Update, SP2 also brings a more complex firewall. Internet Explorer is also more set to a more secure mode by default. The new version of IE will also include a pop-up blocker.

Q: What are some of the new visual features, what did they change?
A: The taskbar has been overhauled (icon grouping), and a new uncluttered notification area. Only the recycle bin is on the desktop - the rest are kept in a new, larger start menu.

Q: But what if we want to keep the classic look?
A: Well, luckily, it seems that you can keep either the classic look or the newer, XP look as default. The GUI should be skinnable to developers.

Q: What is fast user switching?
A: This is a new feature included in Windows XP. "Based on the Windows 2000 profiles, user accounts are created for all users during installation. As the default, passwords are not required, although users can create them if desired. A friendly new welcome screen featuring user names and pictures or icons rather than code names or aliases replaces the logon dialog box. Further, a new control panel applet makes it easy to add and edit user accounts. Each user has their own settings, including wallpaper, music, pictures, favorites, and so forth. In fast user switching, multiple users do not have to not log off when using a single computer. Instead, their accounts are always logged on, and they can switch quickly between all open accounts."

Q: When did testing of Windows XP begin?
A: The first developers preview was sent out to testers mid-July 2000.

Q: Do you have a feature list from a developer's point of view?
A: Windows XP employs Windows 2000 power management features
Graphics Device Interface Plus (GDI+) is the portion of Microsoft Windows.NET that provides two-dimensional vector graphics, imaging, and typography. GDI+ improves on GDI (the graphics device interface included with earlier versions of Windows) by adding new features and by optimizing existing features.
64 bit compatibility
Support for high density displays

Q: What is the build number for Beta 2?
A: 2462a

Q: What are the design goals for Windows XP? What will it improve?
A: Richer communications. Real-time voice, video and application-sharing will enable people to communicate more effectively.
Enhanced mobility. Mobile users' ability to access their information any time, anywhere will be further improved.
Improved help and support. Users will be able to easily connect to people and resources for help whenever they need it.
Simple digital photos and video. Windows XP will make it easy to create, organize and share digital memories.
Exciting music and entertainment. Windows XP will deliver the best experience for the discovery, download, personalization and playback of high-quality audio and video content.
Enabling of the "connected home." Windows XP will give people an easy way to share information, devices and Internet connections within the home.
Q: Will most of my programs from Windows 9* work in Windows XP?
A: Most programs that work on Windows 95/98/Me and NT will work on versions of Windows XP. As with Windows 2000, several compatibility updates are sure to made after the product is released. There will be problems running older DOS programs (if they will run at all).

Q: If I am a games player, should I go for Windows 2000 or Windows XP?
A: Definitely go for Windows XP for the simple reason that it is designed for both the business & consumer thus is more adept at games playing.

Q: Is the Microsoft Management Console included in the release of Windows XP?
A: Yup, to be specific MS Management Console 2.0 is released.

Q: What are Win32 classes? How many new ones are released with Windows XP?
A: Microsoft Win32 classes give you the means to manipulate a variety of objects. Objects can be divided into four main categories. There are 40 new ones.

How To Enable Dynamic Updates For DHCP Clients

2013-09-05T14:50:00.005-07:00

1.Run DHCP from Start Menu > Programs > Administrative Tools > DHCP.
2.In the DHCP console tree, click the applicable DHCP server.
3.Click the Action menu and then click Properties.
4.In the Properties window, Click the DNS tab.
5.Select the Enable DNS dynamic updates according to the settings belowcheck box, and then click the OK button.

Windows Server 2008 : Run Commands For Administrators

2013-09-05T14:50:00.003-07:00

Command Line	Console Name
AdRmsAdmin.msc	Active Directory Rights Management Services
Adsiedit.msc	ADSI Edit
Azman.msc	Authorization Manager
Certmgr.msc	Certmgr (Certificates)
Certtmpl.msc	Certificates Template Console
CluAdmin.msc	Failover Cluster Management
Comexp.msc	Component Services
Compmgmt.msc	Computer Management
Devmgmt.msc	Device Manager
Dfsmgmt.msc	DFS Management
Dhcpmgmt.msc	DHCP Manager
Diskmgmt.msc	Disk Management
Dnsmgmt.msc	DNS Manager
Domain.msc	Active Directory Domains And Trusts
Dsa.msc	Active Directory Users And Computers
Dssite.msc	Active Directory Sites And Services
Eventvwr.msc	Event Viewer
Fsmgmt.msc	Shared Folders
Fsrm.msc	File Server Resource Manager
Fxsadmin.msc	Microsoft Fax Service Manager
Gpedit.msc	Local Group Policy Editor
Lusrmgr.msc	Local Users And Groups
Napclcfg.msc	NAP Client Configuration
Nfsmgmt.msc	Services For Network File System
Nps.msc	Network Policy Server
Ocsp.msc	Online Responder
Perfmon.msc	Reliability And Performance Monitor
Pkiview.msc	Enterprise PKI
Printmanagement.msc	Print Management
Remoteprograms.msc	TS RemoteApp Management
Rsop.msc	Resultant Set of Policy
Secpol.msc	Local Security Policy
ServerManager.msc	Server Manager
StorageMgmt.msc	Share And Storage Management
Services.msc	Services
StorExpl.msc	Storage Explorer
Tapimgmt.msc	Telephony
Taskschd.msc	Task Scheduler
Tmp.msc	Trusted Platform Module (TPM) Management
Tsadmin.msc	Terminal Services Management
Tsconfig.msc	Terminal Services Configuration
Tsgateway.msc	TS Gateway Manager
Tsmmc.msc	Remote Desktops
Uddi.msc	UDDI Services Console
Wbadmin.msc	Windows Server Backup
Wdsmgmt.msc	Windows Deployment Services
Winsmgmt.msc	WINS Manager
WmiMgmt.msc	WMI Control

How to Hide 'User Accounts' from others in Windows XP?

2013-09-05T14:50:00.001-07:00

Hide 'User Accounts' from users

1.Go to Start/Run, and type: GPEDIT.MSC
2.Open the path
User Config > Admin Templates > Control Panel
3.doubleclick "Hide specified Control Panel applets"
4.put a dot in 'enabled', then click 'Show"
5.click Add button,type "nusrmgt.cpl" into the add box

RegCure - windows registry cleaner

2013-09-05T14:46:00.003-07:00

A reliable computer software repair tool is the solution to overcome this problem and save money.

Keep in mind that computer repair companies can charge you a lot for a simple problem, which you could have easily fixed at home.

Computer repair software can fix most of the common PC problems.

You do not need any technical knowledge to run this software.

It is just a matter of a mouse click or two.

Make your slow PC a thing of the past! Realize your systems true potential!

RegCure – unparalleled system performance at the click of a button.

RegCure Feature List

* Automatic/Manual Removal
* Shows scan progress
* Back-up Registry
* Built in scheduler
* Compress or Defrag Registry
* Manage/Cleanup Startup Programs
* Scans for Invalid Program shortcuts
* Removes Duplicate files
* Deletes empty registry Keys
* Checks invalid Class Keys
* Checks Shell Extension
* Checks invalid Help Files
* Checks Invalid CLSID/Typelib/Interface Entries
* Checks Invalid Shared known DLL’s
* Checks invalid Paths
* Checks Application Path Keys/Orphan References
* Checks Invalid Fonts
* Checks Invalid File Types//Extensions/Entries
* Startup manager

RegCure – unparalleled system performance at the click of a button...
RegCure uses the most sophisticated technology available to analyze your registry for missing, obsolete, and corrupt entries.

Compatible with all Microsoft products and third party applications, RegCure seeks out those remnants left behind on your registry from failed installations, incomplete un-installations, disabled drivers, and spyware applications.

RegCure has many features like backing up and restoring of files, fixing start-up problems, correcting incorrect program shortcuts, fixing registry errors etc.

The system has the facility to schedule tasks. This software tool is very useful to use as a preventive maintenance tool. It can automatically repair potential future problems even before it occurs.

http://www.regcure.com/lp/11/?uid=xunsi

Windows Recovery Console Commands

2013-09-05T14:46:00.001-07:00

Windows Recovery Console Commands - Microsoft Windows Tips

The Windows Recovery Console is used to obtain access to your computer without starting the Windows graphical user interface. With the Windows Recovery Console, you can:

- Use, copy, rename, or replace system files and folders.
- Enable or disable services or device startup for the next time that you boot your computer.
- Repair the file system boot sector or the Master Boot Record.
- Create and format partitions on drives.

Here are the available commands that can be used with the Windows Recovery Console.

ATTRIB
Use the attrib command with one or more of the following parameters to change the attributes of a file or a folder:

BATCH
batch inputfile [outputfile]
Use this command to run commands that are specified in a text file. In the command syntax, inputfile specifies the text file that contains the list of commands to be run, and outputfile specifies the file that contains the output of the specified commands. If you do not specify an output file, the output appears on the screen.

BOOTCFG
Use this command for boot configuration and recovery.

CD and CHDIR
Use the cd and chdir commands to change to a different folder.

CHKDSK
chkdsk drive /p /r
The chkdsk command checks the specified drive and repairs or recovers the drive if the drive requires it.The command also marks any bad sectors and it recovers readable information.

CLS
Use this command to clear the screen.

COPY
copy source destination
Use this command to copy a file.

DEL and DELETE
del drive: path filename
delete drive: path filename
Use this command to delete a file.

DIR
dir drive: path filename
Use this command to display a list of files and subfolders in a folder.

DISABLE
disable servicename
Use this command to disable a Windows system service or driver.

DISKPART
diskpart /add /delete device_name drive_name partition_name size
Use this command to manage the partitions on your hard disk volumes.

ENABLE
enable servicename start_type

You can use the enable command to enable a Windows system service or driver.

EXIT
Use the exit command to quit the Recovery Console.

EXPAND
expand source [/F:filespec] [destination] [/y]
expand source [/F:filespec] /D
Use this command to expand a file

FIXBOOT
fixboot drive name:
Use this command to write the new Windows boot sector code on the system partition.

FIXMBR
fixmbr device name
Use this command to repair the MBR of the boot partition.

FORMAT
format drive: /Q /FS:file-system
Use this command to format the specified drive to the specified file system.

LISTSVC
The listsvc command lists all available services, drivers, and their start types for the current Windows installation.

LOGON
The logon command lists all detected installations of Windows and then requests the local administrator password for the copy of Windows that you want to log on to.

MAP
map arc
Use this command to list drive letters, file system types, partition sizes, and mappings to physical devices.

MD and MKDIR
The md and mkdir commands create new folders.

MORE
more filename
Use this command to display a text file to the screen.

RD and RMDIR
Use rd and rmdir commands to delete a folder.

REN and RENAME
Use the ren and rename commands to rename a file.

SET
You can use the set to display or modify four environment options.

SYSTEMROOT
The systemroot command sets the current working folder to the %SystemRoot% folder of the Windows installation that you are currently logged on to.

TYPE
type filename
Use the type command to display a text file.

FAT 32 Vs NTFS

2013-09-05T14:45:00.003-07:00

FAT32

FAT32 is an acronym for File Allocation Table, and the 32 stands for the bit version (there are also FAT12, used for floppy disks, and FAT16, that was the original FAT released with Windows).

It has been around since 1996 with the release of Windows 95 OSR2, the advantage to that is that alot of operating systems have support for it.

These include all the current Windows operating systems as well as a number of the MacOS's

There are several limiting factors to FAT32, namely:
* Limited to 8.3 filenames (unless you setup LFN)
* Must begin with a letter or number
* Can't contain spaces
* Not case sensitive
* Limited to 4 GB partition size

NTFS

Created to make up for what was lacking in FAT. That certainly explains the the acronym New Technology File System. Only NT kernel operating systems (Windows NT, 2000, XP) can access a drive that is using NTFS. So if you are running multiple operating systems on the same computer you should probably just go with FAT32 for formating the hard drive. This allows all operating systems to see the entire hard drive.

Interestingly enough Windows 2000 and XP format programs can only create FAT32 filesystems up to 32 GB.

For more information on the specifics of about NTFS read Microsofts own article here.

For further >>>>

http://www.microsoft.com/resources/documentation/windows/xp/all/proddocs/en-us/choosing_between_ntfs_fat_and_fat32.mspx?mfr=true

How can I download Videos from Youtube?

2013-09-05T14:45:00.001-07:00

We have huge number of special applications, web services, firefox add-ons for downloading internet videos.

Internet is like a Big Ocean. We can get all free software applications here.

Here I am giving one of the Firefox add-on to do download Video from famous sites like Youtube,Google Video, Myspace, Metacafe, Dailymotion, Veho, Blip.tv, Megavideo.

The add-on name is NetVideoHunter. Even You can download MP3 from online streaming sites.

You can handle the download application very easily. After installing it, you can see the tiny blue icon on the right hand side bottom of your Firefox browser.

For More Info and downloading : http://netvideohunter.com/

Restart Remote PC using Twitter

2013-09-05T14:40:00.002-07:00

TweetMyPC is a cool application used to shutdown / restart/ logoff a Remote PC using Twitter.

You need to download TweetMyPC application from here.

Create a new Twitter account in http://www.twitter.com.

This account is specifically for your PC.

Install TweetMyPC application in your targeted PC to be shutdown without human intervention.

Run the application and give User name and password (That is PC's Twitter account).

Enable the check box : Start Automatically with Windows.

No need to modify any configuration in your machine as well as browser.

Now for testing purpose login into http://www.twitter.com using PC's Twitter account just before you created.

Try to update a message with any of the following commands: Shutdown or Restartor Logoff

Immediately the TweetMyPC application installed on the Target PC recognize your command and it will do the necessary action.

Download Location : http://tweetmypc.codeplex.com/

File Extensions - Windows, Linux, Mac

2013-09-05T14:35:00.003-07:00

.a - library (unix)
.ad - screen saver data (AfterDark)
.adi - graphics (AutoCAD)
.adl - MCA adapter description library (QEMM)
.afi - Truevision bitmap graphics
.afm - Type 1 font metric ASCII data for font installer (ATM - many)
.all - format file for working pages (Always)
.all - general printer information (WordPerfect for Win)
.ani - animation (Presidio - many)
.anm - animation (Deluxe Paint Animator)
.ans - ANSI graphics (character animation)
.ans - ASCII text ANSI character set (NewWave Write)
.asc - ASCII text file
.avi - Audio Video Interleaved animation file (Video for Windows)

B

.bak - backup file
.bas - BASIC source code file
.bat - batch file (DOS)
.bbm - brush (Deluxe Paint)
.bbs - Bulletin Board System announce or text info file
.bch - batch process object file (dBASE Application Generator)
.bcp - Borland C++ makefile
.bdf - Bitmap Distribution Format font file (X11)
.bga - bitmap graphics
.bib - bibliography (ASCII)
.bib - database - not compatible with TeX format (Papyrus)
.bib - literature database (TeX/BibTeX)
.bif - Binary Image Format b&w graphics (Image Capture board)
.bin - binary file
.bio - OS2 BIOS
.bit - bitmap X11
.bm - BitMap graphics
.bmk - Help Bookmarks (Windows 3.x)
.bmp - BitMaP graphics (PC Paintbrush - many)
.bpt - bitmap fills file (CorelDRAW)
.btm - Batch To Memory batch file (4DOS)
.bup - backup file
C

.c - C source code file
.c - compressed unix file archive created by COMPACT
.c++ - C++ source code file
.cal - calendar file (Windows 3.x)
.cal - spreatsheet (SuperCalc)
.cbl - COBOL source code file
.cbm - compiled bitmap graphics (XLib)
.cbt - Computer Based Training (many)
.cc - C++ source code file
.ceg - bitmap graphics (Tempra Show - Edsun Continuous Edge Graphics)
.cga - CGA display font (Ventura Publisher)
.chk - recovered data (DOS CHKDSK)
.chk - temporary file (WordPerfect for Win)
.clp - clip art graphics (Quattro Pro)
.clp - clipboard file (Windows 3.x)
.cls - C++ class definition file
.cmd - batch file (OS/2)
.cmd - command (dBASE - Waffle)
.cmd - external command menu (1st Reader)
.cpp - C++ source code file
.cpp - presentation (CA-Cricket Presents)
.cpt - compressed Mac file archive created by COMPACT PRO (ext-pc.zip)
.cur - cursor image file (Windows 3.x)

D

.dat - data file in special format or ASCII
.dbd - debug info (Clarion Modula-2)
.dbg - symbolic debugging information (MS C/C++)
.dcf - disk image file
.dd - compressed Macintosh file archive created by DISKDOUBLER
.deb - DEBUG script (DOS Debug)
.def - defaults - definitions
.dem - demonstration
.dem - graphics (VistaPro)
.dgs - diagnostics
.dic - dictionary
.dir - directory file (VAX)
.diz - description file (Description In Zip)
.dlg - dialog resource script file (MS Windows SDK)
.dll - Dynamic Link Library (Windows 3.x - OS/2)
.dll - export/import filter (CorelDRAW)
.dmp - dump file (eg. screen or memory)
.doc - document text file
.dos - network driver (eg. pkt_dis.dos)
.dos - text file containing DOS specific info
.drv - device driver eg. for printer
.dsk - project desktop file (Borland C++ - Turbo Pascal)
.dss - screensaver file (DCC)

E

.ega - EGA display font (Ventura Publisher)
.emu - terminal emulation data (BITCOM)
.env - Enveloper macro (WOPR)
.env - environment file (WordPerfect for Win)
.err - error log
.err - error messages for command line compilers
.esh - Extended Shell batch file
.exc - REXX source code file (VM/CMS)
.exc - exclude file for Optimize (do not process) (QEMM)
.exe - directly executable program (DOS)
.exm - MSDOS executable, system-manager compliant (HP calculator)
.ext - extension file (Norton Commander)

F

.fac - FACE graphics
.faq - Frequently Asked Questions text file
.fax - fax (raster graphics) (most Fax programs)
.fdw - form (F3 Design and Mapping)
.fix - patch file
.frm - form (Visual Basic)
.ftp - configuration (FTP Software PC/TCP)
.fx - on-line guide (FastLynx)
.fxd - phonebook (FAXit)

G

.gbl - global definitions (VAXTPU editor)
.gfb - compressed GIF image created by GIFBLAST (gifblast.exe)
.gft - font (NeoPaint)
.gif - Graphics Interchange Format bitmap graphics (CompuShow)
.gly - glossary (MS Word)
.gph - graph (Lotus 1-2-3/G)
.gr2 - screen driver (Windows 3.x)
.grb - MS-DOS Shell Monitor file (MS-DOS 5)
.grp - group file (Windows 3.x - Papyrus)

H

.hlp - help information
.hof - Hall Of Fame (game scores)
.hp8 - ASCII text HP Roman8 character set (NewWave Write)
.htm - HTML document (Mosaic)
.htx - Hypertext file

I

.iax - bitmap graphics (IBM Image Access eXecutive)
.ibm - compressed file archive created by ARCHDOS (Internal IBM only)
.icn - ICON source code file
.ico - icon (Windows 3.x)
.id - disk identification file
.ifs - system file (OS/2) hpfs.ifs
.img - bitmap graphics (Ventura Publisher - GEM Paint)
.inc - include file (several programming languages)
.inf - information text file (ASCII)
.inf - install script
.ini - initialization file
.ins - (WordPerfect) wp51.ins
.ins - installation script (1st Reader)

J

.jas - graphics
.jbd - datafile (SigmaScan)
.jpc - graphics (Japan PIC)
.jpg - JPEG Joint Photography Experts Group format bitmap graphics
.jtf - graphics (TIFF file with JPEG compression)

K

.key - security file eg. Shareware Registration info
.kps - IBM KIPS bitmap graphics
.kyb - keyboard mapping (FTP Software PC/TCP)

L

.lbm - bitmap graphics (DeluxePaint)
.lbm - linear bitmap graphics (XLib)
.lcl - (FTP Software PC/TCP)
.ldb - (MS Access)
.lgo - startup logo code (Windows 3.x)
.lib - library file (several programming languages)
.lis - listing (VAX)
.log - log file
.lpc - printer driver (TEKO)

M

.m3d - 3D animation macro
.mac - bitmap graphics (Macintosh MacPaint)
.mac - macro
.mai - mail (VAX)
.mak - makefile
.mak - project file (Visual Basic)
.man - command manual
.map - color palette
.map - format data (Micrografx Picture Publisher)
.map - linker map file
.map - map (Atlas MapMaker)
.map - network map (AccView)
.mbx - mailbox data (ZERBERUS)
.mci - MCI command script (Media Control Interface)
.mcp - printer driver (Mathcad)
.mcw - text file (MacWrite II)
.mdm - modem definition (TELIX)
.meu - menu group (DOS Shell)
.mid - standard MIDI file (music synthetizers)
.mke - makefile (MS Windows SDK)
.mod - MODULA-2 source code file (Clarion Modula-2)
.mod - Windows kernel module
.mon - monitor description (ReadMail)
.mov - movie (AutoCAD AutoFlix)
.mp2 - MPEG audio file (xing)
.mpc - calender file (MS Project)
.mpg - MPEG animation
.msg - message
.msp - bitmap graphics (Microsoft Paint)
.mst - setup script (MS Windows SDK)
.mth - math file (Derive)
.mtm - MultiTracker Module music
.mtw - datafile (Minitab)
.mu - menu (Quattro Pro)
.mus - sound file (MusicTime)
.mvf - stop frame file (AutoCAD AutoFlix)
.mvi - movie command file (AutoCAD AutoFlix)
.mvw - log file (Saber LAN)
.mxt - (MS C)

N

.nws - info text file (latest news) (ASCII)
.nxt - sound (NeXT format)

O

.obj - object code (Intel Recolatable Object Module)
.ocx - OLE custom control
.off - Object File Format vector graphics
.old - backup file
.ovl - overlay file (part of program to be loaded when needed)
.ovr - overlay file (part of program to be loaded when needed)

P

.pac - STAD Image (graphics ?)
.pac - package (SBStudio II)
.pal - color palette
.par - permanent output file (Windows 3.x)
.pcc - cutout picture vector graphics (PC Paintbrush)
.pch - patch file
.pct - bitmap graphics (Macintosh b&w PICT1 - color PICT2)
.pcw - text file (PC Write)
.pcx - bitmap graphics (PC Paintbrush)
.pda - bitmap graphics
.pdv - printer driver (Paintbrush)
.pgm - Portable Grayscale bitMap graphics
.pgm - program (Signature)
.pgp - support file (Pretty Good Privacy RSA System)
.pgs - manual page (man4dos)
.pic - PIXAR picture file (SDSC Image Tool)
.pic - bitmap graphics (Macintosh b&w PICT1 - color PICT2)
.pic - bitmap graphics (many eg. Lotus 1-2-3 - PC Paint)
.pif - Program Information File (Windows 3.x)
.pif - vector graphics GDF format (IBM mainframe computers)
.pit - compressed Mac file archive created by PACKIT (unpackit.zoo)
.pll - pre-linked library (Clipper 5)
.pnt - Macintosh painting
.pop - messages index (PopMail)
.pop - pop-up menu object (dBASE Application Generator)
.prd - printer driver (many)
.pub - public key ring file (Pretty Good Privacy RSA System)

Q

.qpr - print queue device driver (OS/2)
.qpx - compiled query program (FoxPro)
.qrt - QRT ray tracing graphics
.qry - query (dBASE IV)
.qt - QuickTime movie (animation)
.qwk - QWK reader message file
.qxd - document (QuarkXPress)
.qxl - element library (QuarkXPress)

R

.rdi - device-independent bitmap file (RIFF RDIB format)
.rdx - datafile (Reflex)
.rec - datafile (EpiInfo)
.rec - record file (Sprint)
.rec - recorded macro file (Windows 3.x)
.red - path info (Clarion Modula-2)
.ref - cross-reference
.reg - OLE Registration (Windows 3.x)
.reg - registration (Corel programs)
.rem - remarks
.rgb - SGI RGB image file (SDSC Image Tool)
.rif - RIFF bitmap graphics (Fractal Design Painter)
.rip - graphics (Remote Access)
.rix - bitmap graphics (ColorRIX VGA Paint)
.rmk - makefile (RMAKE)
.rpt - report
.rtf - Windows Help file script
.rtl - text file

S

.sav - backup file (saved file)
.sav - configuration
.sav - saved game situation (eg. NetHack)
.sbd - storyboard (Storyboard Editor)
.sbi - Sound Blaster Instrument file (Creative Labs)
.sbr - support file (Source Browser)
.scc - text file
.scr - DEBUG source code file (DOS Debug)
.scr - screen saver (Windows 3.x)
.scx - bitmap graphics (ColorRIX)
.sea - Self-Extracting compressed Macintosh file Archive
.sec - secret key ring file (Pretty Good Privacy RSA System)
.sec - secured animation file (Disney Animation Studio)
.set - setup options file
.sgi - graphics (IRIS - Silicon Graphics)
.sig - current program settings (Signature)
.sig - signature file (PopMail)
.sit - compressed Macintosh archive created by STUFFIT (unsit30.zip)
.smp - sample (sound file)
.smt - text file (Smart Ware II)
.snd - digitized sound file (Macintosh/ATARI/PC)
.spl - sample
.sum - Summary
.swp - swap file (DOS)
.sys - datafile (SYGRAPH - SYSTAT - SPSS/PC)
.sys - system file - device driver or hardware configuration info (DOS)

T

.tbl - graphics (native format) (PageMaker TableEditor)
.tbl - table of values (OS/2)
.tel - host file (Telnet)
.tga - TrueVision Targa bitmap graphics
.tmp - temporary file
.toc - Table Of Contents
.tre - directory tree file (PC-Tools)
.trm - terminal settings (Windows 3.x)
.tut - tutorial

U

.ub - audio file (unsigned byte)
.uhs - Universal Hint System (binary file)
.uif - long prompts for windows (WordPerfect for Win)
.unx - text file containing UNIX specific info
.upd - program update info
.usr - user database file (Procomm Plus - Turbo C++ tour)

V

.vbx - Visual Basic eXtension (Visual Basic)
.vga - VGA display driver
.vga - VGA display font
.vgd - VGA display driver (Generic CADD)
.vid - MS-DOS Shell Monitor file (MS-DOS 5)
.vid - bitmap graphics (YUV12C M-Motion Frame Buffer)
.vid - screen device driver (Word)
.voc - digitized samples (Creative Voice file)
.vst - Truevision Vista bitmap graphics
.vue - animation (3D Studio)
.vxd - Windows 3.x virtual device driver (QEMM)

W

.w31 - startup file (Windows 3.1)
.wav - Waveform audio file (RIFF WAVE format)
.wbf - MS Windows Batch File (Catch)
.wbt - batch file (WinBatch)
.web - WEB source code file
.woa - swap file (Windows 3.x)
.wrs - Windows Resource eg. printer driver (WordPerfect for Win)

X

.xbm - X11 Bitmap graphics
.xll - Excel Dynamic Link Library (MS Excel)
.xmi - compressed eXtended MIdi music
.xwd - X Window System window dump image graphics (SDSC Image Tool)
.xx - compressed file ASCII archive created by XXENCODE (uuexe515.exe)
.xxe - compressed file ASCII archive created by XXENCODE (uuexe515.exe)

Z

.zip - compressed file archive created by PKZIP (pkz204g.exe)
.zoo - compressed file archive created by ZOO (zoo210.exe)

Windows Azure

2013-09-05T14:32:00.001-07:00

Windows Azure™ is a cloud services operating system that serves as the development, service hosting and service management environment for the Windows Azure platform. Windows Azure provides developers with on-demand compute and storage to host, scale, and manage web applications on the internet through Microsoft® datacenters.

Windows Azure is a flexible platform that supports multiple languages and integrates with your existing on-premises environment. To build applications and services on Windows Azure, developers can use their existing Microsoft Visual Studio® expertise. In addition, Windows Azure supports popular standards and protocols including SOAP, REST, XML, and PHP.

Use Windows Azure to:

Run commodity processes in the cloud
Build, modify, and distribute scalable applications with minimal on-premises resources
Perform large-volume storage, batch processing, intense or large-volume computations
Create, test, debug, and distribute Web services quickly and inexpensively

Windows Azure Benefits

Bring your ideas to market faster and pay as you go
Reduce costs of building and extending on-premises resources
Reduce the effort and costs of IT management
Respond quickly to changes in your business and customer needs
Choose an on-premises or off-premises deployment model that best suits your needs.
Scale your IT resources up and down based on your needs.
Consume computing resources ONLY when the needs arise.
Focus less energy on managing operational resources and constraints.
Remove the need to manage hardware
Use your existing development skills to build cloud applications
Consistent development and management experience across on-premises and the cloud.

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

2013-09-05T14:30:00.003-07:00

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

Use a Windows startup disk :

One of the first things you should reach for when troubleshooting a Windows XP boot problem is a Windows startup disk. This floppy disk can come in handy if the problem is being caused when either the startup record for the active partition or the files that the operating system uses to start Windows have become corrupted.

To create a Windows startup disk, insert a floppy disk into the drive of a similarly configured, working Windows XP system, launch My Computer, right-click the floppy disk icon, and select the Format command from the context menu. When you see the Format dialog box, leave all the default settings as they are and click the Start button. Once the format operation is complete, close the Format dialog box to return to My Computer, double-click the drive C icon to access the root directory, and copy the following three files to the floppy disk:

* Boot.ini
* NTLDR
* Ntdetect.com

After you create the Windows startup disk, insert it into the floppy drive on the afflicted system and press [Ctrl][Alt][Delete] to reboot the computer. When you boot from the Windows startup disk, the computer will bypass the active partition and boot files on the hard disk and attempt to start Windows XP normally.
Use Last Known Good Configuration :

You can also try to boot the operating system with the Last Known Good Configuration feature. This feature will allow you to undo any changes that caused problems in the CurrentControlSet registry key, which defines hardware and driver settings. The Last Known Good Configuration feature replaces the contents of the CurrentControlSet registry key with a backup copy that was last used to successfully start up the operating system.

To use the Last Known Good Configuration feature, first restart the computer by pressing [Ctrl][Alt][Delete]. When you see the message Please select the operating system to start or hear the single beep, press [F8] to display the Windows Advanced Options menu. Select the Last Known Good Configuration item from the menu and press [Enter].

Keep in mind that you get only one shot with the Last Known Good Configuration feature. In other words, if it fails to revive your Windows XP on the first attempt, the backup copy is also corrupt.
Use System Restore :

Another tool that might be helpful when Windows XP won't boot is System Restore. System Restore runs in the background as a service and continually monitors system-critical components for changes. When it detects an impending change, System Restore immediately makes backup copies, called restore points, of these critical components before the change occurs. In addition, System Restore is configured by default to create restore points every 24 hours.

To use System Restore, first restart the computer by pressing [Ctrl][Alt][Delete]. When you see the message Please select the operating system to start or hear the single beep, press [F8] to display the Windows Advanced Options menu. Now, select the Safe Mode item from the menu and press [Enter].

Once Windows XP boots into Safe mode, click the Start button, access the All Programs | Accessories | System Tools menu, and select System Restore. Because you're running in Safe mode, the only option on the opening screen of the System Restore wizard is Restore My Computer To An Earlier Time, and it's selected by default, so just click Next. Then, follow along with the wizard to select a restore point and begin the restoration procedure.
Use Recovery Console :

When a Windows XP boot problem is severe, you'll need to use a more drastic approach. The Windows XP CD is bootable and will provide you with access to a tool called Recovery Console.

To boot from the Windows XP CD, insert it into the CD-ROM drive on the problem system and press [Ctrl][Alt][Delete] to reboot the computer. Once the system begins booting from the CD, simply follow the prompts that will allow the loading of the basic files needed to run Setup. When you see the Welcome To Setup screen, press R to start the Recovery Console.

You’ll then see a Recovery Console menu. It displays the folder containing the operating system’s files and prompts you to choose the operating system you want to log on to. Just press the menu number on the keyboard, and you'll be prompted to enter the Administrator’s password. You’ll then find yourself at the main Recovery Console prompt.
Fix a corrupt Boot.ini :

As the Windows XP operating system begins to load, the Ntldr program refers to the Boot.ini file to determine where the operating system files reside and which options to enable as the operating system continues to load. So if there's a problem rooted in the Boot.ini file, it can render Windows XP incapable of booting correctly.

If you suspect that Windows XP won't boot because Boot.ini has been corrupted, you can use the special Recovery Console version of the Bootcfg tool to fix it. Of course, you must first boot the system with the Windows XP CD and access the Recovery Console as described in #4.

To use the Bootcfg tool, from the Recovery Console command prompt, type
Bootcfg /parameter

Where /parameter is one of the required parameters listed in the table below.

Parameter Description :

/Add Scans the disk for all Windows installations and allows
you to add any new ones to the Boot.ini file.

/Scan Scans the disk for all Windows installations.

/List Lists each entry in the Boot.ini file.

/Default Sets the default operating system as the main boot
entry.

/Rebuild Completely re-creates the Boot.ini file. The user must
confirm each step.

/Redirect Allows the boot operation to be redirected to a specific
port when using the Headless Administration feature. The
Redirect parameter takes two parameters of its own:

[Port Baudrate ] | [UseBiosSettings].

/Disableredirect Disables the redirection.
Fix a corrupt partition boot sector :

The partition boot sector is a small section of the hard disk partition that contains information about the operating system's file system (NTFS or FAT32), as well as a very small machine language program that is crucial in assisting the operating system as it loads.

If you suspect that Windows XP won't boot because the partition boot sector has been corrupted, you can use a special Recovery Console tool called Fixboot to fix it. Start by booting the system with the Windows XP CD and accessing the Recovery Console as described in #4.

To use the Fixboot tool, from the Recovery Console command prompt, type

Fixboot [drive]:

Where [drive] is the letter of the drive to which you want to write a new partition boot sector.
Fix a corrupt master boot record :

The master boot record occupies the first sector on the hard disk and is responsible for initiating the Windows boot procedure. The master boot record contains the partition table for the disk as well as a small program called the master boot code, which is responsible for locating the active, or bootable, partition, in the partition table. Once this occurs, the partition boot sector takes over and begins loading Windows. If the master boot record is corrupt, the partition boot sector can't do its job and Windows won't boot.

If you suspect Windows XP won't boot because the master boot record has been corrupted, you can use the Recovery Console tool Fixmbr to fix it. First, boot the system with the Windows XP CD and access the Recovery Console as described in #4.

To use the Fixmbr tool, from the Recovery Console command prompt, type

Fixmbr [device_name]

Where [device_name] is the device pathname of the drive to which you want to write a new master boot record. For example, the device pathname format for a standard bootable drive C configuration would look like this:

\Device\HardDisk0

Disable automatic restart :

When Windows XP encounters a fatal error, the default setting for handling such an error is to automatically reboot the system. If the error occurs while Windows XP is booting, the operating system will become stuck in a reboot cycle—rebooting over and over instead of starting up normally. In that case, you'll need to disable the option for automatically restarting on system failure.

When Windows XP begins to boot up and you see the message Please select the operating system to start or hear the single beep, press [F8] to display the Windows Advanced Options Menu. Then, select the Disable The Automatic Restart On System Failure item and press [Enter]. Now, Windows XP will hang up when it encounters the error and with any luck, it will display a stop message you can use to diagnose the problem.
Restore from a backup :

If you can't seem to repair a Windows XP system that won't boot and you have a recent backup, you can restore the system from the backup media. The method you use to restore the system will depend on what backup utility you used, so you'll need to follow the utility's instructions on how to perform a restore operation.
Perform an in-place upgrade :

If you can't repair a Windows XP system that won't boot and you don't have a recent backup, you can perform an in-place upgrade. Doing so reinstalls the operating system into the same folder, just as if you were upgrading from one version of Windows to another. An in-place upgrade will usually solve most, if not all, Windows boot problems.

Performing a Windows XP in-place upgrade is pretty straightforward. To begin, insert the Windows XP CD into the drive, restart your system, and boot from the CD. Once the initial preparation is complete, you’ll see the Windows XP Setup screen (shown earlier in Figure A). Press [Enter] to launch the Windows XP Setup procedure. In a moment, you’ll see the License Agreement page and will need to press [F8] to acknowledge that you agree. Setup will then search the hard disk looking for a previous installation of Windows XP. When it finds the previous installation, you’ll see a second Windows XP Setup screen

This screen will prompt you to press R to repair the selected installation or to press [Esc] to install a fresh copy of Windows XP. In this case, initiating a repair operation is synonymous with performing an in-place upgrade, so you’ll need to press R. When you do so, Setup will examine the disk drives in the system. It will then begin performing the in-place upgrade.

Keep in mind that after you perform an in-place upgrade or repair installation, you must reinstall all updates to Windows.

10 reasons why PCs crash U must Know

2013-09-05T14:30:00.001-07:00

Fatal error: the system has become unstable or is busy," it says. "Enter to return to Windows or press Control-Alt-Delete to restart your computer. If you do this you will lose any unsaved information in all open applications."

You have just been struck by the Blue Screen of Death. Anyone who uses Microsoft Windows will be familiar with this. What can you do? More importantly, how can you prevent it happening?
1.) Hardware conflict

The number one reason why Windows crashes is hardware conflict. Each hardware device communicates to other devices through an interrupt request channel (IRQ). These are supposed to be unique for each device.

For example, a printer usually connects internally on IRQ 7. The keyboard usually uses IRQ 1 and the floppy disk drive IRQ 6. Each device will try to hog a single IRQ for itself.

If there are a lot of devices, or if they are not installed properly, two of them may end up sharing the same IRQ number. When the user tries to use both devices at the same time, a crash can happen. The way to check if your computer has a hardware conflict is through the following route:

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Start-Settings-Control Panel-System-Device Manager.

Often if a device has a problem a yellow '!' appears next to its description in the Device Manager. Highlight Computer (in the Device Manager) and press Properties to see the IRQ numbers used by your computer. If the IRQ number appears twice, two devices may be using it.

Sometimes a device might share an IRQ with something described as 'IRQ holder for PCI steering'. This can be ignored. The best way to fix this problem is to remove the problem device and reinstall it.

Sometimes you may have to find more recent drivers on the internet to make the device function properly. A good resource is www.driverguide.com. If the device is a soundcard, or a modem, it can often be fixed by moving it to a different slot on the motherboard (be careful about opening your computer, as you may void the warranty).

When working inside a computer you should switch it off, unplug the mains lead and touch an unpainted metal surface to discharge any static electricity.

To be fair to Microsoft, the problem with IRQ numbers is not of its making. It is a legacy problem going back to the first PC designs using the IBM 8086 chip. Initially there were only eight IRQs. Today there are 16 IRQs in a PC. It is easy to run out of them. There are plans to increase the number of IRQs in future designs.
2.) Bad Ram

Ram (random-access memory) problems might bring on the blue screen of death with a message saying Fatal Exception Error. A fatal error indicates a serious hardware problem. Sometimes it may mean a part is damaged and will need replacing.

But a fatal error caused by Ram might be caused by a mismatch of chips. For example, mixing 70-nanosecond (70ns) Ram with 60ns Ram will usually force the computer to run all the Ram at the slower speed. This will often crash the machine if the Ram is overworked.

One way around this problem is to enter the BIOS settings and increase the wait state of the Ram. This can make it more stable. Another way to troubleshoot a suspected Ram problem is to rearrange the Ram chips on the motherboard, or take some of them out. Then try to repeat the circumstances that caused the crash. When handling Ram try not to touch the gold connections, as they can be easily damaged.

Parity error messages also refer to Ram. Modern Ram chips are either parity (ECC) or non parity (non-ECC). It is best not to mix the two types, as this can be a cause of trouble.

EMM386 error messages refer to memory problems but may not be connected to bad Ram. This may be due to free memory problems often linked to old Dos-based programmes.
3.) BIOS settings :

Every motherboard is supplied with a range of chipset settings that are decided in the factory. A common way to access these settings is to press the F2 or delete button during the first few seconds of a boot-up.

Once inside the BIOS, great care should be taken. It is a good idea to write down on a piece of paper all the settings that appear on the screen. That way, if you change something and the computer becomes more unstable, you will know what settings to revert to.

A common BIOS error concerns the CAS latency. This refers to the Ram. Older EDO (extended data out) Ram has a CAS latency of 3. Newer SDRam has a CAS latency of 2. Setting the wrong figure can cause the Ram to lock up and freeze the computer's display.

Microsoft Windows is better at allocating IRQ numbers than any BIOS. If possible set the IRQ numbers to Auto in the BIOS. This will allow Windows to allocate the IRQ numbers (make sure the BIOS setting for Plug and Play OS is switched to 'yes' to allow Windows to do this.).
4.) Hard disk drives :

After a few weeks, the information on a hard disk drive starts to become piecemeal or fragmented. It is a good idea to defragment the hard disk every week or so, to prevent the disk from causing a screen freeze. Go to
Start->Programs->Accessories-> System Tools-> Disk Defragmenter

This will start the procedure. You will be unable to write data to the hard drive (to save it) while the disk is defragmenting, so it is a good idea to schedule the procedure for a period of inactivity using the Task Scheduler.

The Task Scheduler should be one of the small icons on the bottom right of the Windows opening page (the desktop).

Some lockups and screen freezes caused by hard disk problems can be solved by reducing the read-ahead optimisation. This can be adjusted by going to
Start->Settings->Control Panel->System Icon-> Performance->File System->Hard Disk

Hard disks will slow down and crash if they are too full. Do some housekeeping on your hard drive every few months and free some space on it. Open the Windows folder on the C drive and find the Temporary Internet Files folder. Deleting the contents (not the folder) can free a lot of space.

Empty the Recycle Bin every week to free more space. Hard disk drives should be scanned every week for errors or bad sectors. Go to
Start->Programs->Accessories->System Tools->ScanDisk

Otherwise assign the Task Scheduler to perform this operation at night when the computer is not in use.

5 Fatal OE exceptions and VXD errors

Fatal OE exception errors and VXD errors are often caused by video card problems.

These can often be resolved easily by reducing the resolution of the video display. Go to

Start->Settings->Control Panel->Display->Settings

Here you should slide the screen area bar to the left. Take a look at the colour settings on the left of that window. For most desktops, high colour 16-bit depth is adequate.

If the screen freezes or you experience system lockups it might be due to the video card. Make sure it does not have a hardware conflict. Go to
Start->Settings->Control Panel->System->Device Manager

Here, select the + beside Display Adapter. A line of text describing your video card should appear. Select it (make it blue) and press properties. Then select Resources and select each line in the window. Look for a message that says No Conflicts.

If you have video card hardware conflict, you will see it here. Be careful at this point and make a note of everything you do in case you make things worse.

The way to resolve a hardware conflict is to uncheck the Use Automatic Settings box and hit the Change Settings button. You are searching for a setting that will display a No Conflicts message.

Another useful way to resolve video problems is to go to
Start->Settings->Control Panel->System->Performance->Graphics

Here you should move the Hardware Acceleration slider to the left. As ever, the most common cause of problems relating to graphics cards is old or faulty drivers (a driver is a small piece of software used by a computer to communicate with a device).

Look up your video card's manufacturer on the internet and search for the most recent drivers for it.
6.) Viruses :

Often the first sign of a virus infection is instability. Some viruses erase the boot sector of a hard drive, making it impossible to start. This is why it is a good idea to create a Windows start-up disk. Go to
Start->Settings->Control Panel->Add/Remove Programs

Here, look for the Start Up Disk tab. Virus protection requires constant vigilance.

A virus scanner requires a list of virus signatures in order to be able to identify viruses. These signatures are stored in a DAT file. DAT files should be updated weekly from the website of your antivirus software manufacturer.

An excellent antivirus programme is McAfee VirusScan by Network Associates ( www.nai.com). Another is Norton AntiVirus 2000, made by Symantec ( www.symantec.com).
7.) Printers :

The action of sending a document to print creates a bigger file, often called a postscript file.

Printers have only a small amount of memory, called a buffer. This can be easily overloaded. Printing a document also uses a considerable amount of CPU power. This will also slow down the computer's performance.

If the printer is trying to print unusual characters, these might not be recognised, and can crash the computer. Sometimes printers will not recover from a crash because of confusion in the buffer. A good way to clear the buffer is to unplug the printer for ten seconds. Booting up from a powerless state, also called a cold boot, will restore the printer's default settings and you may be able to carry on.
8.) Software :

A common cause of computer crash is faulty or badly-installed software. Often the problem can be cured by uninstalling the software and then reinstalling it. Use Norton Uninstall or Uninstall Shield to remove an application from your system properly. This will also remove references to the programme in the System Registry and leaves the way clear for a completely fresh copy.

The System Registry can be corrupted by old references to obsolete software that you thought was uninstalled. Use Reg Cleaner by Jouni Vuorio to clean up the System Registry and remove obsolete entries. It works on Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows 98 SE (Second Edition), Windows Millennium Edition (ME), NT4 and Windows 2000.

Read the instructions and use it carefully so you don't do permanent damage to the Registry. If the Registry is damaged you will have to reinstall your operating system. Reg Cleaner can be obtained from www.jv16.org

Often a Windows problem can be resolved by entering Safe Mode. This can be done during start-up. When you see the message "Starting Windows" press F4. This should take you into Safe Mode.

Safe Mode loads a minimum of drivers. It allows you to find and fix problems that prevent Windows from loading properly.

Sometimes installing Windows is difficult because of unsuitable BIOS settings. If you keep getting SUWIN error messages (Windows setup) during the Windows installation, then try entering the BIOS and disabling the CPU internal cache. Try to disable the Level 2 (L2) cache if that doesn't work.

Remember to restore all the BIOS settings back to their former settings following installation.
9.) Overheating :

Central processing units (CPUs) are usually equipped with fans to keep them cool. If the fan fails or if the CPU gets old it may start to overheat and generate a particular kind of error called a kernel error. This is a common problem in chips that have been overclocked to operate at higher speeds than they are supposed to.

One remedy is to get a bigger better fan and install it on top of the CPU. Specialist cooling fans/heatsinks are available from www.computernerd.com or www.coolit.com

CPU problems can often be fixed by disabling the CPU internal cache in the BIOS. This will make the machine run more slowly, but it should also be more stable.
10.) Power supply problems :

With all the new construction going on around the country the steady supply of electricity has become disrupted. A power surge or spike can crash a computer as easily as a power cut.

If this has become a nuisance for you then consider buying a uninterrupted power supply (UPS). This will give you a clean power supply when there is electricity, and it will give you a few minutes to perform a controlled shutdown in case of a power cut.

It is a good investment if your data are critical, because a power cut will cause any unsaved data to be lost.

How to disable Autorun in CD / DVDs?

2013-09-05T14:27:00.001-07:00

How to disable Autorun in CD / DVDs?

1) Click Start, Run and enter GPEDIT.MSC

2) Go to Computer Configuration --> Administrative Templates --> System.

3) Locate the entry for Turn Autoplay off and modify it as you desire.

How to Disable USB Devices in Windows?

2013-09-05T14:25:00.001-07:00

Open Your Windows Registry then Try the following

1. Always backup your registry in case you mess up something
2. Open regedit and change the key value ‘Start’
of ‘HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\USbStor” to 4.

Value 4 – Storage USB devices are disabled
Value 3 – Storage USB devices are enabled

How to Enable Hibernation in Windows XP?

2013-09-05T14:24:00.001-07:00

How to Enable Hibernation in Windows XP?

1. Please log on as an Administrator.

1. Please do click on Start, click Control Panel, click Performance and Maintenance, and then click Power Options.

2. Click the Hibernate tab, and then select the Enable hibernate support check box.

3. Click OK to close the Power Options dialog box.

Computer Problems & Solutions

2013-09-05T14:22:00.001-07:00

can't see Hidden files/folders in my computer. Even I enable the option "Show hidden files/folders" in "Tools -> Folder Options", its automatically disabled again.

Solution1: Go to your Start menu, click on Run and open up your Registry Editor by typing "regedit" without the quotes and pressing OK.

Once there go to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced\Folde r\Hidden\SHOWALL

Delete the value CheckedValue. (Its type should be REG_SZ and data should be 0 or 1.)

Create a new DWORD value called CheckedValue (same as above, except that the type is REG_DWORD) by right clicking on the right pane->New->DWORD Value. Modify the value data to 1 (0x00000001).
Solution 2: Open regedit and goto:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
In right-side pane, change value of "Hidden" to as following:

1 - To show hidden file
2 - To not show hidden files

If it doesn't work, then scan your computer with an anti-virus software.

Task Manager Disabled:

Using Group Policy Editor - for Windows XP Professional to Enable Task Manager.

* Click Start, Run, type gpedit.msc and click OK.
* Navigate to this branch:

User Configuration / Administrative Templates / System / Ctrl+Alt+Delete Options / Remove Task Manager

* Double-click the Remove Task Manager option.
* Set the policy to Not Configured.

Enable RegEdit [It is not tested]

REGEDIT4
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersio
n\Policies\System]
"DisableRegistryTools"=dword:00000000

Save the text file as any name u with extension .reg
example:- "enable.reg"
After that double click to run the file.

Note:DO SCAN YOUR MACHINE WITH A GOOD ANTIVIRUS. BECAUSE THIS PROGRAMS DON'T TURNED OFF BY HIMSELF OR AUTOMATICALLY. IT HAS TO A VIRUS EFFECT OR A ADMINISTRATOR HAS TO MANUALLY DISABLE THIS PROGRAMS.

Restore Deleted Recycle Bin Icon from Desktop:

Method #1:
1. Right-click an empty area of your desktop
2. Select Properties
3. Click the Desktop tab
4. Click the Customize button
5. Click Restore Default
6. Exit all windows and restart your computer

Method #2:
Note: Be sure to make a backup copy of your registry prior to making any changes.

Go to Start>> Run. Type in: regedit [Enter]

Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Desktop\NameSpace

Hold the mouse on NameSpace and right-click once. From the resulting menu, select Edit>> New>> Key

Copy and Paste the following Key code (including the brackets):

{645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E}

Press Enter on your keyboard, exit the registry editor and restart your system.

Blank User Accounts Applet :

Problem:
When you double-click User Accounts applet in the Control Panel, the User Accounts applet opens, but it may be completely blank.

The buttons Back | Forward | Home are displayed in the dialog.

Resolution:
To resolve the problem, type these commands from Start, Run dialog:

regsvr32 jscript.dll

If that does not help, execute the following commands as well.

regsvr32 nusrmgr.cpl
regsvr32 /i mshtml.dll

Force windows XP to reboot upon crashing:

This registry edit will cause your system to reboot itself automatically upon crashing. This can be useful if you have a reason for keeping your system on 24/7:

Open REGEDIT

Navigate to 'HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM
\CurrentControlSet\Control\CrashControl'

Edit the 'AutoReboot' value to '1'

Stand By Icon Disabled:

Problem:
I reinstalled my windows and now "Stand By" option is Grey out in shutdown dialog box and I can't use it.

Sol: Install VGA drivers from your motherboard CD and the option will be enabled. If you don't have the motherboard CD, then go to the manufacturer site and download the required drivers.

Improving the Slow Boot up time:

There are a variety of reasons why your windows XP system would boot slowly. Most of the times it this has to do with the startup applications. If you would like to speed up the bootup sequence, consider removing some of the startup applications that you do not need. Easiest way to remove startup apps is through System Configuration Utility. Go to Start then Run and enter MSCONFIG and go to the Startup tab. Deselect/UnCheck application(s) that you do not want to startup at boot time.

Regedit Disabled By Admin:

Open Notepad pad, copy paste the following text to the note pad::

REGEDIT4
[HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersio
n\Policies\System]
"DisableRegistryTools"=dword:00000000

Save the text file as any name u with extension .reg

example:- "enable.reg"

After that double click to run the file.

Task Manager Disabled:

If you are working on Windows XP pro, following steps will help u to enable Task Manager

SOLUTION 1:
Click Start --> Run
Enter gpedit.msc in the Open box and click OK
In the Group Policy settings window, select User Configuration
Select Administrative Templates
Select System
Select Ctrl+Alt+Delete options
Select Remove Task Manager
Double-click the Remove Task Manager option
Disable that option

SOLUTION 2:
Click on Start >> Run and in the Open box type:

REG add HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System /v DisableTaskMgr /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /f

Click OK.

2. Double-clicking any drive opens search option:

Solution 1:
That's a virus named as ravmon.exe and autorun.inf
Scan first with a good antivirus [Nod32 Recommanded]
then try this trick.

First show the hidden files and folders options then try this method

1. Go to Start-->run and type cmd then click ok

2. If u want to remove the infected file from c drive then type C: in command prompt and press enter

3. Type autorun.inf and press enter
autorun.inf file is opened

4. Now type "attrib autorun.inf -s -h -r" and press enter

5. Now delete the file by typing
"del autorun.inf" and press enter

6.Now type autorun.inf and press enter now, u will find no infected autorun.inf file.

7. same way do for all other drives then restart ur pc

I accidentally deleted my "mspaint.exe"/"notepad.exe"/etc. file, how can I get it back?

Solution::

You can use any of following methods:

A. Goto "%windir%\System32\DLLCache" folder and look for the file, if its there then copy it to "%windir%\System32\" folder.

B. Insert your Windows Setup CD and goto "I386" folder. Now look for the same file, it'll present there but the last letter of extension will be "_". e.g., u'll get "mspaint.ex_"/"notepad.ex_"/etc. Now open Command Prompt and goto "I386" folder and give following command:

expand mspaint.ex_ mspaint.exe
expand notepad.ex_ notepad.exe
etc.

Now u can copy the file to "%windir%\System32" folder.

C. Give following command in Command Prompt:

sfc /SCANNOW

It'll automatically restore the files.

When I right-click on Start button and select "Open", a "Copy To" or "Move To" dialog box opens automatically.

Solution:
Open regedit and goto:
Code:
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\AllFilesystemObjects\shellex\ContextMenuHandlers\

Now under this key, delete following 2 keys:
Copy To
Move To

Windows is showing some wrong icons of files. How can I reset the corrupted icons?

Solution:

You can use any of following methods:

A. Download TweakUI and then click on "Repair Icons" in "Repair" section.

B. Open My Computer and goto:
C:\Documents and Settings\User_Name\Local Settings\Application Data

Replace C:\ with your system drive and "user_Name" with your username.
Now there'll be a HIDDEN file "iconcache.db", delete it and restart your system.

A strange process "ctfmon.exe" always runs in background and if I click on "End Process" button, it restarts automatically.

Solution:
Open Control Panel and goto Add/Remove Programs list. Now click on the Microsoft Office entry and then click on "Change" button. Now select "Add/Remove Features" and click on "Next". Now expand "Office Shared Features" and click on "Alternative User Input" and then select "Not Available" and finally click on Update. It'll permanently remove that ctfmon.exe and your problem will be solved.

My Windows Login Screen has changed to "Classic Logon Box". I want the new Welcome Screen back.

Solution:
Type "control userpasswords" in RUN dialog box or Open "User Accounts" in Control Panel. Then click on "Change the way Users log on and off". Now check the option "Use Welcome Screen". If you get following error:

Uninstall client services for netware.

Then Open "Network Connections" and open Properties of your Internet Connection. Now goto "Networking" tab and select "Client services on Netware" option and click on the"Uninstall" button.

Whenever I start my computer, Scandisk starts running even I proper shut down the PC last time.

Solution:
Do as following:

A. Open regedit and goto:

Code:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session Manager

In right-side pane, change the value of BootExecute to:

autocheck autochk *

B. If the above trick doesnt help then give following commands in Command Prompt:

chkntfs /x drive_name

for e.g., if ScanDisk runs automatically for C: and D: drives, then give following commands one by one:

chkntfs /x C:
chkntfs /x D:

When I start my computer, I get error message:

"Windows\System32\config\system" file missing or corrupt

Solution::
Boot using Windows Setup CD and enter into "Recovery Console" by pressing "R". Now Log into windows installation and enter admin password. Now give following commands at prompt:

copy %windir%\Repair\system %windir%\System32\Config

If it doesnt work, then again boot into "Recovery Console" and give following commands:

fixmbr
bootcfg /scan
bootcfg /rebuild
fixboot

Win XP Tweaks

STARTUP

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

10 reasons why PCs crash U must Know

How to disable Autorun in CD / DVDs?

How to Disable USB Devices in Windows?

How to Enable Hibernation in Windows XP?

Computer Problems & Solutions