COMPUTER AND ELECTRONICS WORLD; SHARING KNOWLEDGE AND SOLUTIONS FOR COMPUTER PROBLEMS

I AM BACK AND WELCOME NEW AND OLD VISITORS TO OUR BLOG

2026-01-21T20:58:00.000-05:00

Long Time No See. It's been years I know. I've aged to 92 years old, but still so much involved in the world of computer tricks to handle and avoid failures and improve safe operational computer operation. These are new times, different fromt he past, yet we, (most of us), still use Windows 11. I am now eager to help people and discuss anything about computers and computing. Have questions, any questions ? Please come back and let's start the Blog allover again. Best Regards to all of you who used to visit us in the past. I'm still here 92 years old, but in good health of body and mind. George Freire

HOW TO REMOVE YOUR LOGIN PASSWORD FROM WINDOWS 10

2019-07-04T15:38:00.002-04:00

Its been a long time since my last post. I am totally retired and well organized in my private affairs now.

I think it"s time to start again with helpful posts, mostly focused on Windows 10, now that my favorite Windows 7 is on the last months in getting support from Microsoft.

Today I am addressing an issue that is sometimes a source of irritation with many users.

As we all know, Windows 10 requires as default, a password entry every time it is booted or even awaken from sleep. This is of course a security issue which makes a lot of sense for computers which are easily accessed by other people, other then the owner.

However, if your computer is in a place that only you or other trusted person can access, it is much easier to boot without having to enter your password.

It is very easy to remove your login password. Here is how:

1- Click windows 10 Start Menu icon at bottom left of screen.

2-Type Netplwiz command and select the program that show up with the same name.

3-A new window opens, (title is User Accounts). On top left of the screen, next to the option
named "Users must enter a user name and password to use this computer" there is a check
mark in a little square.

4-Uncheck the check mark.

5-Click "Apply" button on lower left of the window. This action will prompt you to enter your password twice.

6-Enter your password twice as requested, click the OK button and you are done.
Next time you reboot your computer or wake it up from sleep, you will no longer need
to enter your password.

I hope this post will help some of you who did not know how to login without entering a password.

See you soon.

George Freire

WINDOWS 10 FEATURES WELL WORTH EXPLORING

2018-03-11T17:46:00.003-04:00

We owe most of these recommendations and technical information to Kim's Club at www.komando.com, where you can explore exhaustible amounts of information about the technical world of electronics that surround all of us today.

Here are some interesting features you might want to explore in Windows 10, if you have not yet done so:
Find Missing Files

Remember this: cmd. It's a command prompt that can help you find files that your Windows operating system needs to work properly. It can also help you fix problems.
Type "cmd" into the taskbar >> right-click on Command Prompt >> select Run As Administrator. To find missing files, type "sfc /scannow." To check for system problems, type "chkdsk /f."

Quick Assist

If you are a savvy Windows operator, and get requests for help from friends and family, (like I do all the time...), you'll love this surprising Windows 10 feature:

Did you know that you can remotely take over a friend or family member's computer, and vice versa, so you can help fix their problem?
It's called Quick Assist, although you may know it as Remote Assistance. In Windows 10, type "quick assist" into your taskbar >> select Get Assistance or Give Assistance and then follow the onscreen instructions.

Virtual Desktop

There's an icon on your desktop called Task View. It's the little rectangular box to the right of your "Type here" taskbar.
Click on it to see all the windows you have open. Or click on New Desktop to create a new workspace without closing the windows you have open.

Print PDF
If you print documents, you're invariably hearing "send it to me as a PDF." PDF is a print format that's compatible across multiple operating systems and software programs.

You may not know that you can print in PDF format from any program that's running on Windows 10. Try it with a Word document.
Go through the steps to print as you normally do. When you see the option to choose a specific printer, select the one that says, "Microsoft Print to PDF."

Disk Cleanup

Disk cleanup was a way to make your computer run faster when PCs had less RAM than they do today.
Disk Cleanup fell by the wayside for most of us as PCs and laptops have become more sophisticated. But your computer could still use a de-bloating now and again.
Disk Cleanup is a simple way to delete files you don't need and to ensure your recycle bin is cleared out. On Windows 10: Type "disk cleanup" into your taskbar where it says, "Type here to search" >> click on Disk Cleanup app >> put a check mark next to each folder you want deleted, such as temporary files.

Find your apps fast

When you open your regular start menu, you see a list of your apps running down the side. The most-used apps are on top, but the rest are laid out in alphabetical order. You could scroll through them all to find the one you want to open, but a quicker way to manage it is by clicking on any of the main letters (like “A”). This opens up a view of the entire alphabet. Just click on the first letter of the app you want and you will be taken directly to that part of the start menu.

A different sort of start menu

The start menu is a Windows classic. It’s easily accessible through the stylized Windows icon in the corner of your screen. Click on it and you get a layout of your most-used programs, access to power options, and shortcuts to your file explorer and computer settings. All of that is handy, but you can get a completely different look from the start menu when you right-click on the icon instead. If you’re using a touchscreen, then just touch the icon, hold it down for a second and then release. Alternately, use the keyboard shortcut by hitting the Windows key combined with “x.”

The right-click version delivers a quick and clean start menu. The power options and access to programs are still there, but it also puts a lot more at your fingertips, including the Task Manager, control panel, device manager, and others.

Thank you KimKomando

Enjoy,

George Freire

ARE YOU FAMILIAR WITH "GOD MODE" FOR WINDOWS 10 ?

2017-03-06T18:47:00.004-05:00

Sorry, it has been a while since my last post but do to unexpected circumstances, I have not been able do to much in the last few months.

Have you readers never heard of God Mode setting for Windows 10 ? (It was also available in Windows 8 and 8.1 but was never very much advertised or known, except by the "experts"...).

Think of God Mode as a tool which allows access to just about all the settings available in your Windows OS, available all in one place, with a single click on a desktop icon !

It covers hundreds of commands for settings, tools, internet options, backups, customization options and on and on. All these are sorted out into categories, so that it makes it very easy to find what you want.

Here is how to create the "God Mode" icon on your desktop. (You can call it whatever you want such as "Easy Find" or whatever):

Use a system account that has administrative privileges:

-Right-click anywhere on the Windows 10 desktop. Select "New/Folder"

-Name the folder: GodMode.{ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C}

-You can copy and paste the above to make it easier.

-If you want you can replace "GodMode" with any other name you select..

-Click the folder and a new icon named GodMode (or whatever you called it).

-Presto ! A folder opens where you can see all kinds of settings to select, including Devices and Printers, Credential Manager, Indexing, etc. It makes it very easy to find any setting or tool without having to go through lengthy steps to get there.

Enjoy it

George Freire

WINDOWS 10 GREAT AND FAST SHORTCUTS TO LEARN

2016-04-25T16:40:00.000-04:00

Windows 10 has many shortcut commands that most people never take advantage of.

Maybe some of our readers will:

All these commands require HOLDING the first key as you press the second, (command), key:

Windows key + E  : open internet explorer

Control key + P      : print

Control key + S      : save

Control key + F      : find word or phrase

Control key + Z     : undo whatever you were doing

Control key + Y    : redo whatever you undid

Control key + ESC : open start screen

Control key + N   : new email, new document

Control key + C  : copy items you select

Control key + X : cut items you select

Control key +V : paste

Windows key + F :search files or folders

Windows key + + or - keys :zoom in zoom out

Alt + Tab : switch between windows

F1 : display help screen

There are more shortcut commands, however as far as I am concerned, the above are the most practical and fast acting.

Enjoy.

George Freire

HOW TO BEAT RAMSOMWARE

2016-03-29T15:49:00.000-04:00

Dear readers,

What would you do if you were hit with ransomware? Unfortunately, if you haven't backed up your files, there's nothing much you can do, unless you pay the ransom. Of course, that puts a great big target on your back for future malware attacks. So what's the best course of action? Stop the attack from happening in the first place. Read on to find out how.

Malwarebytes one of the best if not the best malware defense programs on the market, has the following advice on how to prevent and beat ransomware problems.

The article is written by Wendy Zamora one of their technical writers and we bring it here by clicking the following link:

https://www.malwarebytes.org/articles/how-to-beat-ransomware-prevent-dont-react/?utm_source=double-opt-in&utm_medium=email-internal-b2c&utm_campaign=EM-March2016newsletter&utm_content=main-article

Keep yourselves away from ramsomware, it can really be a very pesty situation if you ever find yourself a victim.

George Freire

What’s New in the latest Windows 10’s First Big Update

2015-11-25T18:22:00.000-05:00

For those of you who have had problems with Windows 10, here is some good information that will possibly help a lot of you, maybe not all...

From " How-To-Geek" Blog, here is the latest on the Windows 10 latest update.

The first big update to Windows 10, arriving via Windows Update, fixes a lot of problems with Windows 10. Microsoft is streamlining activation, restoring colored window title bars, integrating Skype, and improving the Edge browser. But they’ve also added advertisements to the Start menu.

See all about it by clicking the following link:

http://www.howtogeek.com/232176/whats-new-in-windows-10s-first-big-update-the-windows-10-fall-update/

Thanks "How-To-Geek" for the excellent info.

George Freire

How to turn off Windows 10's keylogger

2015-09-10T13:16:00.005-04:00

Windows 10 is great, but...

Microsoft can track your keystrokes, your speech, and more. Here are the settings to turn it all off.

Go to PCWorld and find out how to get Microsoft out of your business:

here is the link:

http://www.pcworld.com/article/2974057/windows/how-to-run-off-windows-10s-keylogger-yes-it-still-has-one.html#tk.nl_pwr

Thanks for the tip PCWorld !

George Freire

Windows 10, what if I decide it is not for me, how to go back to my original Windows 7 or 8 or 8.1 ?

2015-08-03T11:13:00.000-04:00

Windows 10 so far is pretty good, as far as I am concerned. But I am sure there will be some of you who would rather keep what you had before. HOW CAN YOU DO IT ?

It is not very hard to do, but you only have 30 days when you can go back to your original Windows version. Here is how to do it:

Click Start/Settings and then go the "Update & Security" icon. This will bring you to the "Recovery" section; select "Go back to Windows 8.1" or "Go back to Windows 7". Now click "Get Started" and you are done, let the computer take you back to your old version.

That is all there is to it !!

However Windows will ask you why you want to do such a thing... etc. etc.

After you are done you may find out that some program icons are missing or misplaced, but do not despair, all the programs you had in the computer will still be there, just go to "All Programs" , select the program you are having problems with, open the file location such as ""C:\Program Files (x86)\program name\.", select the exe application icon and copy it to the desktop. It will work as before.

George Freire

Trying to unmask the fake Microsoft support scammers!

2015-06-27T12:19:00.000-04:00

I am a member of a wonderful blog called Ugly Hedgehog^® - Photography Forum.

This blog has thousands of members mostly interested in issues related to photography, but many other discussions covering all kinds of technical issues, are also published every day.

If you want to learn anything, and I mean anything related to photography, this is the place to be.

I receive an email on a daily basis showing the blog and all new activities, messages, questions, comments etc. from members across the spectrum. It really is extremely interesting and I know that most of my readers will enjoy visiting the blog and become members if so desire. Membership is free.

The link to this blog is: http://news.uglyhedgehog.com/b-275534-e-527

Today, one member had a message concerning scammers who pose as official Microsoft Support agents in order to still information from you, take over your computer and squeeze money from those who fall for it.

Here is an excerpt of a message posted by one of our members, that tells it all:

"I just received a strange phone call from (Supposedly) a Microsoft rep/agent.
A gentleman with a distinct Indian accent called a little while ago. He told me that my computer was infected with malware and/or viruses and he was calling from MS to help me. He told me to press the Windows key and type something like eventxxx at the prompt. I told him that I was very leery about typing anything in and running any program at someone who purportedly represents Microsoft.
He then told me that he knew my unique ID number and told me to write it down. He the told me to run MSCONFIG from the prompt and type in ASSOC which would match the number he gave me beforehand and prove he was legit. While he was talking to me I looked at the reports from Malwarebytes and Norton and they showed nothing.
I then told him that I very reluctant to do anything he suggested via a "phone call from Microsoft."
I said that unless I received an official email from MS, I wasn't going to run any programs from someone who made a personal call to me.
He said goodbye and hung up.
I then decided to back check the number he called me from and the app said it was an invalid number.
Has anything similar happened to any of you?
What are your thoughts?"

Another member posted the following answer:

"hi i'm from microsoft, honest
now if you just type windows and r and type cmd we can just verify your consumer licence id

if you type assoc your licence number should be
CLSID 888DCA60-FC0A-11CF-8F0F-00C04FD7D062 is that correct , good its the right system.

now just type verify what does it say? Verify is off thats bad very bad you can't install any security updates at all...

Now small confession i'm not from microsoft and 888DCA60-FC0A-11CF-8F0F-00C04FD7D062 is not unique to your computer either.

Sounds good doesn't it. Microsoft don't particularly care if your computers infected or not and they certainly don't ring up individuals to tell them they are infected!

That little script was based on this page

http://securelist.com/blog/incidents/33734/trying-to-unmask-the-fake-microsoft-support-scammers-17/

So when you get a call ignore it , hangup and do not follow any instructions they give you.

Hope this helps, be safe"

The link above will take you to a site called SECURELIST authored by David Jacoby, which explains in detail how these scammers operate, and how to catch them in the act. The post is dated August 4, 2012, which tells us, how long these scammers have been pestering a large number of computer users around the world.

I hope this will be of help to you all.

George

INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION

2015-04-13T17:33:00.002-04:00

A good friend sent me this. It is so amazing that I had to post it here:

*THIS IS AMAZING

*Some people have no idea as to what the Space Station looks like. This is very impressive.*
*This is something worthwhile to watch. Forward this to your family and
friends. Don't forget your children and grandchildren. Enjoy-*
*Click here: Departing Space Station Commander Provides Tour of Orbital
Laboratory

http://www.youtube.com/embed/doN4t5NKW-k

Enjoy,

George Freire

WINDOWS 10 IS ALMOST HERE. THIS LINK WILL CLARIFY MOST OF YOUR QUESTIONS

2015-02-25T16:48:00.000-05:00

Much has been discussed, talked about, explained, criticized and so on, about Windows 10, which will be officially released within a few short months.

I have read many articles from many authors concerning the subject. The best, so far was a full report from CNET:

Windows 10: It may just be everything that Windows 8 should have been.

The following link will take you to the CNET website covering the above:

http://www.cnet.com/products/microsoft-windows-10/

I am sure you all will enjoy the reading.

George Freire

SavePath Deals, one of the worst malware programs that easily sneaks in your computer and disrupts your Internet browsing with pesky pop ups, ads, changing of your home page settings. Here we teach you all about it and help you get rid of the offender.

2014-10-12T17:01:00.001-04:00

Today I am addressing one of the worst malware invasions in your computer, which act mostly when you visit the Internet. It happens with just about all browsers but I have had complaints from friends using IE and Google Chrome, both of which I also use frequently. (Guess what, it also happened to me a few days ago), IN SPITE OF THE FACT THAT MY COMPUTER IS SUPPER PROTECTED AGAINST INTRUDERS....

I am addressing item 1 of our post of last September 12, "Malicious malware" and I will try my best to teach you how to get rid of the problem.

One of the main culprits if not the top one is a sneaky malware program called SavePath Deals.

It gets installed in your computer surreptitiously when you open for instance a news title on Drudge Report, or on your web page, or during installation of certain free programs etc. All I can say is that it is very nasty and can disrupt your Internet browsing on a continuous and irritating way.

If you google SavePath Deals, you will find a multitude of articles teaching how to uninstall this malware program. I tried them all to no avail. WHY?

After hours of trying and checking all possible solutions suggested, I found out that the program was invisible not only to the Windows uninstalling program as well as other uninstalling programs that I have in my computer, even one of the best "REVO UNINSTALLER".

Some of the suggested ways to get rid of SavePath Deals tells you (after several steps that I am not going to elaborate here), to go into the registry and delete several associated SavePath Deals Windows registry entries, all clearly described such as the one below and many others, (about 20 entries):

HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\CLASID\{F66C7EC4-63CC-4452-A8C9-5A2E898F8EFF}

Well friends I spent several hours trying, but could not find one single registry entry specified !

I was about ready to quit but before I did I checked again "Program Files (x86)" In my hard drive C.

I found a program folder titled SPD. (Bingo, I said to myself), is this the intruder ?, I opened the folder and found 2 sub folders. I right clicked each of them, went to "properties" and there it was, the program was created by Save Path Deals !

I right clicked again and selected "Uninstall with Revo Uninstaller", and the process on uninstallation started immediately. (Please note that there was no entry to uninstall with Windows Uninstaller !). Revo Uninstaller can be downloaded from:

http://www.revouninstaller.com/revo_uninstaller_free_download.html

At the end of the uninstallation, Revo shows and then removes at your command, all registry entries loaded by the SavePath Deals malware. GUESS WHAT ? none of the registry entries shown and there were tons of them, resembled any of those indicated in the uninstallation solutions suggested in any of the articles found when I googled SavPath Deals !

I have a gut feeling that the guys who run this malware have worked it out lately to make it more stealth and also changed the program structure and all old registry entries, so that it is almost impossible for people to get rid of it.

I am sure that there are many of you who have been attacked by this pesky malware program and don't know what it is or how to get rid of it. Now you know.

IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS, E-MAIL ME AT gfreire@att.net, leave your phone # and I'll be glad to contact and help you.

George Freire

Most common and terrifying computer problems

2014-09-12T12:24:00.000-04:00

It's been a long Summer and to tell you the truth I have been very lazy writing posts, in spite of the fact that I have had so many friends and other people asking for help in solving their computer problems.

Here are the most common "help me George" issues I have been asked and in most cases been able to help those who called me:

Malicious malware
Slow computer
Takes forever to boot
Bad internet connection
Hard drive failure
Power supply failure
DVD drive failure, or non recognition
Lock ups or freezes
Software program stops
Strange noises and overheating
Loss of contacts list
Missing DLL files
Registry errors

Today, I am not going to discuss any of these, (have a bunch of other stuff to take care off), but I promise that within the next few days, I'll touch most of the issues above and how I helped the folks in trouble.

Please be patient, but if you have any of those problems affecting you, please email me immediately and I will get to you prompt.

George Freire

Malware Bytes Protection (Against Trojans, Viruses, Warms and various other malicious code)

2014-06-14T12:30:00.000-04:00

Back in 2010, I posted an article concerning the software product Malware Bytes.

Today, more than ever before, attacks to your computers by all kinds by bad stuff such as trojans, viruses, worms, and other malicious code, are carried out continuously 24/7/365.

I have installed the premium version of Malware Bytes on my three computers, (although you can also get the free version), at a cost of $24.95 renewable every year, (it can be installed in three computers)

My friends, it is well worth it, therefore here is a review of that post and my recommendation: get either the free or premium versions ASAP and you will not regret it. My computers run so clean it is hard to believe it:

"I received an email from PC World, (always good stuff), this time about a program that once you install it in your computer, you will be indeed very happy about. It offers you another level of protection against which in this day and age, is always good to have.

Here is PC World editorial review of this free software:

Supplement your regular antivirus program (the one you keep running in the background at all times) with an extra malware scanner, such as Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware Free.

The free version of Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware doesn't offer real-time protection (the $25 full version does), making it useless as your first line of defense. But scanning your hard drive with the free Anti-Malware every week or so will add another layer of protection, finding whatever your main program missed. It's like going to another doctor for a second opinion, except that you don't have to make an appointment or a co-payment.

Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware Free is extremely easy to use. You load it, check for updates at its prompting, then start the scan. To scan just one drive, file, or folder, right-click it and select Scan.

Not a complete solution by any stretch of the imagination, this version of Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware is a free yet valuable addition to your security arsenal.

--Lincoln Spector

Here is what the creators of this software have to say about its use and qualities:

Have you ever considered what makes an anti-malware application effective? We at Malwarebytes have created an easy-to-use, simple, and effective anti-malware application. Whether you know it or not your computer is always at risk of becoming infected with viruses, worms, trojans, rootkits, dialers, spyware, and malware that are constantly evolving and becoming harder to detect and remove. Only the most sophisticated anti-malware techniques can detect and remove these malicious programs from your computer. ptagep Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware is considered to be the next step in the detection and removal of malware. In our product we have compiled a number of new technologies that are designed to quickly detect, destroy, and prevent malware. Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware can detect and remove malware that even the most well known anti-virus and anti-malware applications fail to detect. Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware monitors every process and stops malicious processes before they even start. The Realtime Protection Module uses our advanced heuristic scanning technology which monitors your system to keep it safe and secure. In addition, we have implemented a threats center which will allow you to keep up to date with the latest malware threats.

Activating the full version unlocks realtime protection, scheduled scanning, and scheduled updating. For consumers and personal use, it is a one time fee of $24.95. For corporate and business customers, annual licenses are required, please see our Corporate Licensing program.

If you want to download and install the program in your computer, go to:

http://www.pcworld.com/downloads/file/fid,83075/description.html?tk=nl_ddx_h_dlfeat

Click on the above address, or copy and paste on your browser.

I have installed it in my computers and I can tell you that it works really well.

George Freire

I personally think this software is about the best additional level of protection you can use in conjunction with your anti-virus program.

George Freire

DON'T TRUST THIS EMAIL FROM GOOGLE

2014-05-16T15:59:00.000-04:00

From KIMKOMANDO,

komando-special-alerts@lyris.komando.com

we received this email concerning hacking attacks in the form of an email from GOOGLE:

There's a dangerous new threat that's trying to steal your Google password. If you fall for it, hackers will have full access to your Gmail account, YouTube account, Google+ account, Google Search History and any other Google services you use. From there, they can break try to break into other similar accounts, like Facebook, or pretend to be you to trick your friends and family into giving away important information. So, you definitely don't want to fall for this one.

The Threat

The threat arrives in the form of an email, supposedly from Google. The subject line varies, but it's some form of "Mail Notice" or "Lookout Notice." The body of the email says this: GOOGLE MAIL NOTICE This is a reminder that your email account will be locked out in 24hours Due to not being able to increase your Email storage Quota Go to the INSTANT INCREASE to increase your Email storage automatically. INSTANT INCREASESincerely Gmail Team, Copyright ©2014 Gmail. All rights reserved. In the real email, the words "Instant increase" are linked. If you click the link, you'll end up on a page that looks like the Google login page.
However, if you put in your username and password, they'll be sent right to the hackers behind the email. Then they have full access to your Google account. One thing that makes this message especially dangerous is the link itself. It's designed to bypass Chrome and Firefox's normal checks for phishing links, so you won't get a warning.

How you know the email is fake

As I demonstrated when I pointed out 5 things wrong with this email from Amazon, there are a few giveaways that this email isn't real. Spelling isn't really an issue this time around, but the grammar isn't up to the standards of the one of the most profitable companies in history. There's no Google logo and the From address says "Gmail," but isn't a Google domain name (i.e. there's no "google.com" in it). Finally, as always, Google will never ask you to click in a link in an email. It will tell you to go to Google.com to sign in and where to go to fix your account settings. This is true of any major company.

What to do if you get this email

Obviously, don't click on the link. Instead, just delete the email and continue on with your day. Opening the email won't hurt anything, so don't panic.

If you got this email and fell for it, then you need to immediately change your Google account password. You should also change the passwords of any other accounts that used the same password. Click here to learn how to create strong and unique passwords. In the future, any unsolicited email you receive that has a suspicious link or attachment, you can just delete. If you aren't sure whether or not it's real, go to the company's website to get its contact information. Then call the company, or individual, to confirm if the email is legitimate. Don't use contact information in the email itself.

Thanks KIMKOMANDO for the always good advice you provide.

George Freire

WINDOWS XP IS GOING TO "EXPIRE" COME APRIL 8 2014. WHAT CAN YOU XP LOVERS DO ??

2014-03-22T13:26:00.001-04:00

Microsoft is officially terminating all user support and security updates for Windows XP on April 8, 2014. What this means is that after this date, you Windows XP users, (and you really still are in the millions), will no longer be able to receive from Microsoft any operating system fixes, no assistance against viruses attacks or many other online related problems.

Now, if you are using your computer just for games, keeping your bank account updated and other activities, (without going into the Internet), you will be OK. If you just browse the Internet once in a while, you might be also OK.

If you are using your computer for other activities, such as email, e-banking or other activities involving the Internet, (and I'll bet that most of you likely are), THEN you are in trouble

So, what can or should you do?

You really have two choices

I assume that your computer is probably quite a few years old, but if it still is in good shape and you belong to the first group above,(that does not rely on the Internet much), just keep doing what you are doing, stay with Windows XP. THIS IS YOUR FIRST CHOICE.

HOWEVER, if you belong to the second group that relies on the Internet for just about everything you do with your computer, THEN my friend, you'll have to say bye to windows XP, otherwise your computer will be inoperable sooner or later due to hackers taking advantage of your defenceless Windows XP software. You may have good anti virus software, but still... there will be too many holes in your Windows XP not anymore patched up by Microsoft, that even good anti virus software will not be able to defend. You will have to move to another Windows version, either Windows 7 or Windows 8.1. THIS IS YOUR SECOND AND ONLY CHOICE.

In my humble opinion, a move to Windows 8.1 for those who have been using Widows XP forever in a day, may be too much of a change. A change to Windows 7 makes a lot more sense because there is not much of a difference between the two and the learning process will be a breeze. (Window 8.1 will be much harder to get used to and although this version has many good improvements, a lot of users just hate it. ).

Unfortunately, if you are going to buy a new computer, most likely it will come with Windows 8.1, but you may be able to buy a PC or Laptop with Windows 7 installed, by ordering from manufacturers websites such as HP, Dell, Lenovo, etc.

Of course if you feel you can build your own computer, (I have several posts in this Blog, that can guide you to take that step), then you can order all your components from Newegg or other suitable supplier of computer parts, plus an OEM version of Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 if so desired.

The problem you are faced with is how to transfer all your stuff from your old computer to the new one.

When Windows 7 was introduced by Microsoft a few years ago, (November 6, 2009), we published a post on this Blog that showed you how to upgrade from Windows XP to Windows 7. The title of the post is:

UPGRADE TO WINDOWS 7 FOR THOSE WHO STILL HAVE WINDOWS XP (PART II)

If you want to upgrade to Windows 8.1, all the instructions that apply for the upgrade to Windows 7 are basically the same. Here is the post:

"Last week I told you how I did the conversion, (upgrade), to Windows 7 from Windows Vista. I also told you that making the conversion from Windows XP is a completely different situation, in as much as the conversion must be a "clean install" rather then an "upgrade".

The "upgrade" is relatively easy because your settings, your applications, your data and your files all travel from Windows Vista to windows 7 and there is very little work to be done after the installation is completed.
Unfortunately you Windows XP users are not that lucky; after the "clean install", you must reset your users and network, (if applicable), reinstall all your drivers, programs, data and files from scratch. Don't let this discourage you, because if you prepare your work with a little patience, you'll end up with a computer that is much cleaner, because all the garbage that was accumulated by Windows XP during the years of use of your computer will be gone for good!

One possible problem that you'll have to face is the possible incompatibility of certain application drivers that worked with W XP but will not work with W 7 such as drivers for your display, audio system, network adapters, wireless keyboard and mouse, etc. You can check the drivers you have by going to "device manager" in your computer. (click "start", right click "my computer", select "properties", click the "hardware" tab and finally click "device manager" button. once you are there, it will display a complete list of all devices installed in your computer as well as the drivers for each one of them.

To find out if you have such problems, you'll have to run the Microsoft short program I referred to last week, Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor , by going to the following Web address:http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-7/get/upgrade-advisor.aspx

(click the above or copy and paste on your browser).

As i explained last week, once you run this program in your computer, it will generate a report which will verify compatibility of your hardware, software, drivers etc. that are now installed in your computer and tell you what you have to do before trying to do the clean install of W 7.

In order to find the right drivers that will run in W 7, you must download them from Windows 7 Compatibility Center at the following Web address:
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/compatability/windows-7/en-us/default.aspx

(click the above or copy and paste on your browser).

Needless to say that now you will have to back up to an external drive all your data, files and any other information you want to transfer to the Window 7 environment. Programs will have to be reinstalled again and I assume you have the original disks for the same such as Window Works, Word etc. etc.
If you don't have the disks, the other solution will be to create an image back up of your hard drive. This is the most dependable way to transfer your old set up without having to install the programs with original disks, especially if you don't have them or don't know where you put them. Such an operation will restore all you have on your hard drive. You will need of course an external drive to copy the image to and a program that will do it.
Please read my post of September 5, 2009:

" BACK UP AND RECOVERY OF YOUR COMPUTER HARD DRIVE IS NOW EASY TO PERFORM"

This post explains how to do it using a very popular program called ACRONIS, (this program is not free, it costs $39.00, but it is well worth having because it will keep an image of your hard drive that can be updated as many times as you command it to do).
There are other free programs that will do it, but most of them are not as complete and easy to operate as ACRONIS,. A good one recommended by PC World is Macrium Reflect Free that can be downloaded at:

http://www.macrium.com/reflectfree.asp

Keep in mind that it takes several hours to copy an image of your hard drive to an external hard drive, especially if your hard drive has been accumulating all kinds of stuff along the years... a good way of doing it is starting the operation at night before you go to bed. The following morning it will be done...
Once you have done all this preparation work, you are now ready to run the clean installation. follow the steps I described last week, but when you get to the point in the wizard that asks you if you want to do an "Upgrade" or a "Custom" (clean installation), you'll have to select "Custom".
From that point on just follow the instructions, (see my post of last week), and after a couple of hours Windows 7 will be installed in your computer. After this, you will have to either transfer the hard drive image you have copied to your external hard drive, (if you decided to go this route), or to reinstall all your programs using the original disks and then copying the data files and installing new drives if required.
My friends, this may seem too complicated and scary for some of you, but really, if you have a little "hands on" experience with your computer it won't be so bad after all. In any case, this will be a good practice session for you to get really well acquainted in computer operation.
Have fun!!!
(Your comments will be very much appreciated)
George Freire "

I hope all of the above will be of help to you all Windows XP users in stress...

George Freire

HOW TO RESCUE YOUR PC FROM RAMSONWARE

2014-02-27T12:30:00.000-05:00

Today I received an email from PCWorld, which I have to share with all my readers. With due respect here it is:

How to rescue your PC from ransomware

Jan 13, 2014 3:30 AM

With the nasty CryptoLocker malware making the rounds--encrypting its victims’ files, and then refusing to provide the unlock key unless a payment of $300 is made via Bitcoin or a prepaid cash voucher--ransomware is back in the spotlight.

You can remove many ransomware viruses without losing your files, but with some variants that isn’t the case. In the past I’ve discussed general steps for removing malware and viruses, but you need to apply some specific tips and tricks for ransomware. The process varies and depends on the type of invader. Some procedures involve a simple virus scan, while others require offline scans and advanced recovery of your files. I categorize ransomware into three varieties: scareware, lock-screen viruses, and the really nasty stuff.

Here is the link to the very useful article that may save your day. Just click or copy/paste to your browser:

http://www.pcworld.com/article/2084002/how-to-rescue-your-pc-from-ransomware.html#tk.nl_down

Thanks for the great tips, PCWorld !

George Freire

BOT REVOLT ONE OF THE BEST WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR COMPUTER

2014-02-25T16:29:00.000-05:00

I learned about Bot Revolt some time ago and installed the free version in my computer. It is simply amazing. (For a small monthly fee they also have a "pro" full version ), but the free version is pretty good for most non business computer users.

This program is by far one of the best for Malware Protection and Cyber Security, that I have ever tested. I have it installed in all my three computers and I'm glad I did it.

Bot Revolt is a type of program that lives way down deep inside the networking code on your computer - the stuff in Windows that actually makes/receives network connections for you - and inspects everything that flows past it.

It monitors all inbound communication to your computer. The software scans automatically every .002 seconds looking for any suspicious or unauthorized communication.

In order to keep hackers out you need a program that continuously monitors your computers communication to prevents cyber attacks from hackers or bots to your computer.

Any suspicious or unauthorized communication is filtered by the software. Without a program like Bot Revolt your computer could allow hackers or bots to access your personal data which could then be transmitted back out to Internet.

To catch these thieves on their way out your firewall must be capable of automatically blocking unauthorized outbound communications outbound protection.

It monitors program installation, registry and file changes, keyboard and mouse code control, and other potentially dangerous behaviors.

Runs quietly in the background of your computer. Most programs with outbound protection generate a lot of noise (alerts asking you for input).

Bot Revolt was developed to run as efficient and quiet as possible. This powerful network-defender system constantly monitors the safety of your PC in real-time.

In order to download and install Bot Revolt, click the following link, or copy and paste to your browser:

http://www.botrevolt.com/

After you are taken to the web site, click the orange button for the free version or the blue button for the full version. This will take you to another page where you must enter your name and email.

Once you have done that, click the "Get the free Bot Revolt" button. Another page will open asking you to check your email account to where they an email with a link for the program download.

It is that simple. Enjoy it, you'll thank me for bringing this tip to you, but you will be most thankful to Bot Revolt for offering you such a great product for free !

George Freire

WINDOWS 8 & 8.1 USEFUL KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS

2013-11-07T17:47:00.000-05:00

From Yash's Blog, link below:

http://blogs.msdn.com/b/hyperyash/archive/2012/08/28/windows-8-shortcuts.aspx

Here is a list of useful shortcuts for Windows 8 & 8.1, (better than the one I published in November 2012) :

Windows key: Switch between Modern Desktop Start screen and the last accessed application
Windows key + C: Access the charms bar
Windows key + Tab: Access the Modern Desktop Taskbar
Windows key + I: Access the Settings charm
Windows key + H: Access the Share charm
Windows key + K: Access the Devices charm
Windows key + Q: Access the Apps Search screen
Windows key + F: Access the Files Search screen
Windows key + W: Access the Settings Search screen
Windows key + P: Access the Second Screen bar
Windows key + Z: Brings up the App Bar when you have a Modern Desktop App running
Windows key + X: Access the Windows Tools Menu
Windows key + O: Lock screen orientation
Windows key + . : Move the screen split to the right
Windows key + Shift + . : Move the screen split to the left
Windows key + V: View all active Toasts/Notifications
Windows key + Shift + V: View all active Toasts/Notifications in reverse order
Windows key + PrtScn: Takes a screenshot of the screen and automatically saves it in the Pictures folder as Screenshot
Windows key + Enter: Launch Narrator
Windows key + E: Open Computer
Windows key + R: Open the Run dialog box
Windows key + U: Open Ease of Access Center
Windows key + Ctrl + F: Open Find Computers dialog box
Windows key + Pause/Break: Open the System page
Windows key + 1..10: Launch a program pinned on the Taskbar in the position indicated by the number
Windows key + Shift + 1..10: Launch a new instance of a program pinned on the Taskbar in the position indicated by the number
Windows key + Ctrl + 1..10: Access the last active instance of a program pinned on the Taskbar in the position indicated by the number
Windows key + Alt + 1..10: Access the Jump List of a program pinned on the Taskbar in the position indicated by the number
Windows key + B: Select the first item in the Notification Area and then use the arrow keys to cycle through the items Press Enter to open the selected item
Windows key + Ctrl + B: Access the program that is displaying a message in the Notification Area
Windows key + T: Cycle through the items on the Taskbar
Windows key + M: Minimize all windows
Windows key + Shift + M: Restore all minimized windows
Windows key + D: Show/Hide Desktop (minimize/restore all windows)
Windows key + L: Lock computer
Windows key + Up Arrow: Maximize current window
Windows key + Down Arrow: Minimize/restore current window
Windows key + Home: Minimize all but the current window
Windows key + Left Arrow: Tile window on the left side of the screen
Windows key + Right Arrow: Tile window on the right side of the screen
Windows key + Shift + Up Arrow: Extend current window from the top to the bottom of the screen
Windows key + Shift + Left/Right Arrow: Move the current window from one monitor to the next
Windows key + F1: Launch Windows Help and Support
PageUp: Scroll forward on the Modern Desktop Start screen
PageDown: Scroll backward on the Modern Desktop Start screen
Esc: Close a charm
Ctrl + Esc: Switch between Modern Desktop Start screen and the last accessed application
Ctrl + Mouse scroll wheel: Activate the Semantic Zoom on the Modern Desktop screen

Alt: Display a hidden Menu Bar
Alt + D: Select the Address Bar
Alt + P: Display the Preview Pane in Windows Explorer
Alt + Tab: Cycle forward through open windows
Alt + Shift + Tab: Cycle backward through open windows
Alt + F: Close the current window Open the Shut Down Windows dialog box from the Desktop
Alt + Spacebar: Access the Shortcut menu for current window
Alt + Esc: Cycle between open programs in the order that they were opened
Alt + F4: Close Application

Alt + Enter: Open the Properties dialog box of the selected item
Alt + PrtScn: Take a screen shot of the active Window and place it in the clipboard
Alt + Up Arrow: Move up one folder level in Windows Explorer (Like the Up Arrow in XP)
Alt + Left Arrow: Display the previous folder
Alt + Right Arrow: Display the next folder
Shift + Insert: CD/DVD Load CD/DVD without triggering Autoplay or Autorun
Shift + Delete: Permanently delete the item (rather than sending it to the Recycle Bin)
Shift + F6: Cycle backward through elements in a window or dialog box
Shift + F10: Access the context menu for the selected item
Shift + Tab: Cycle backward through elements in a window or dialog box
Shift + Click: Select a consecutive group of items
Shift + Click on a Taskbar button: Launch a new instance of a program
Shift + Right-click on a Taskbar button: Access the context menu for the selected item
Ctrl + A: Select all items
Ctrl + C: Copy the selected item
Ctrl + X: Cut the selected item
Ctrl + V: Paste the selected item
Ctrl + D: Delete selected item
Ctrl + Z: Undo an action
Ctrl + Y: Redo an action
Ctrl + N: Open a new window in Windows Explorer
Ctrl + W: Close current window in Windows Explorer
Ctrl + E: Select the Search box in the upper right corner of a window
Ctrl + Shift + N: Create new folder
Ctrl + Shift + Esc: Open the Windows Task Manager
Ctrl + Alt + Tab: Use arrow keys to cycle through open windows
Ctrl + Alt + Delete: Access the Windows Security screen
Ctrl + Click: Select multiple individual items
Ctrl + Click and drag an item: Copies that item in the same folder
Ctrl + Shift + Click and drag an item: Creates a shortcut for that item in the same folder
Ctrl + Tab: Move forward through tabs
Ctrl + Shift + Tab: Move backward through tabs
Ctrl + Shift + Click on a Taskbar button: Launch a new instance of a program as an Administrator
Ctrl + Click on a grouped Taskbar button: Cycle through the instances of a program in the group
F1: Display Help
F2: Rename a file
F3: Open Search
F4: Display the Address Bar list
F5: Refresh display
F6: Cycle forward through elements in a window or dialog box
F7: Display command history in a Command Prompt
F10: Display hidden Menu Bar
F11: Toggle full screen display
Tab: Cycle forward through elements in a window or dialog box
PrtScn: Take a screen shot of the entire screen and place it in the clipboard
Home: Move to the top of the active window
End: Move to the bottom of the active window
Delete: Delete the selected item
Backspace: Display the previous folder in Windows Explorer Move up one folder level in Open or Save dialog box
Esc: Close a dialog box
Num Lock Enabled + Plus (+): Display the contents of the selected folder
Num Lock Enabled + Minus (-): Collapse the selected folder
Num Lock Enabled + Asterisk (*): Expand all subfolders under the selected folder

Press Shift 5 times Turn StickyKeys on or off
Hold down right Shift for 8 seconds Turn FilterKeys on or off
Hold down Num Lock for 5 seconds Turn ToggleKeys on or off

Good stuff, thanks for the info Yash's Blog !

I know my readers will enjoy and look for other good info by clicking the link shown above.

George Freire

WINDOWS 8.1 UPGRADE IS FINALLY HERE. HOW TO HANDLE IT BETTER...

2013-10-25T17:35:00.000-04:00

Hi all,

I have been talking about Windows 8 and the much waited final upgrade version of Windows 8.1, which was made available last week, October 17, 2013.

With due respect here is a summary of a very useful article from
" Kim Komando's Breaking Newsletter":

Predictably, some of the options you'll love in 8.1 aren't turned on out of the box. You have to know where to look.
Let's start with updating from Windows 8; it isn't hard. From the Windows 8 Start screen, open the Windows Store. It will let you know Windows 8.1 is available.
It's a large update, so it will take a while to download. Fortunately, you can keep using your computer in the meantime. Once the update finishes downloading, you'll receive further instructions.

While no one is reporting any problems, I still suggest backing up your information before you start. You never know what glitches might happen.

Once Windows 8.1 is installed, the first thing you'll see is a demo with helpful hints for using Windows 8.1. Yes, Microsoft finally included instructions. You can go through the tutorial right away. If you want to save it for later, or have more questions, open the Help + Tips app in the Start screen. Next, you can start customizing. One of the first things you'll notice is that 8.1 still boots to the Start screen instead of the Desktop.

From the Start screen, click the Desktop app icon, or click the Start button in the lower left screen corner, to bring up the Desktop. Then right-click on the taskbar at the bottom of the screen and choose Properties.

Go to the Navigation tab and check the "When I sign in or close all apps on the screen, go to the desktop instead of Start" option. Now the computer will boot to the Desktop. That will make it feel more like the Windows you know.

I would also select "Show my desktop background on Start." This syncs your Desktop and Start screen backgrounds. It doesn't sound like much, but it actually helps everything make more sense. You'll see what I mean when you turn it on.

You can also turn off some of the corner hot points for accessing recent apps and the Charms menu. This makes it harder to hit them accidentally with a mouse.

Earlier I mentioned that the Start button is back, sort of. While it's right where it used to be, it just doesn't do what you'd expect. By default, clicking on it brings up the Windows 8 Start screen instead of the older-style Start menu.

If you really want the old-style Windows Start menu, you'll need a third-party option like Start8 or Classic Shell.

(To install Classic Shell you can check our post dated December 16, 2012).

However, for now, right-click on the Start button and select Properties. From there, click the Navigation tab and choose "shows the Apps view automatically when I go to Start."

Now when you click on the Start button, you'll see every app or program on the computer. You can sort them in alphabetical order or by most used.
Apps view also lets you change default programs or uninstall programs. This saves you from going through Windows 8's usual uninstall process, which is confusing.

Of course, Windows 8.1 isn't just about fixing old features. There are some nice new features as well. One new change you're sure to like is the updated Lock Screen. You can decorate your Lock Screen with any picture on your computer or from SkyDrive.

You can even turn them into picture passwords, which let you draw on an image to unlock your computer. Microsoft says it's easier and safer than a traditional password.

Microsoft has updated every built-in app, so they're much nicer to use. You'll want to go check them out if you weren't impressed the first time around.

App multitasking is a bit nicer. Instead of allowing just two apps side-by-side, you can have up to four. Plus, you get to choose how much of the screen each app takes up.

There are still some quirks, of course. Apps load in the Start screen, not the Desktop, making it hard to tell how to get out of them. However, Windows 8.1 is still much better overall than Windows 8. Hopefully, Microsoft continues that trend with the next updates and the upcoming Windows 9. Want to ditch computers in favor of a tablet? It's possible. Just be sure you have all the information you need first.

Here is the link to get the whole of this article plus more good stuff:

http://www.komando.com/tips/index.aspx?id=15417&utm_medium=nl&utm_source=notd&utm_content=2013-10-18-article_2-title&page=1

Thanks Kim, we all appreciate your Web Site.

George Freire

HOW THE INTERNET WORKS...

2013-10-17T16:13:00.003-04:00

I got this from a friend,

This is mind boggling!

This is done so well, it is definitely worth the time to watch and see what goes on behind the scenes.

Absolutely Amazing.

HOW THE INTERNET WORKS: click the link or "copy/paste to your browser".

http://www.wimp.com/internetworks/

George Freire

Windows 8.1 digital download will be released October 17, full retail launch October 18

2013-09-21T16:39:00.000-04:00

For all Windows 8 users:

Remember what I mentioned to you in our post of July 30, 2013? :

"Windows 8 has been here for over eight months and whether you love it of hate it, if you buy a new computer you are stuck, therefore try to make the best of the situation.

I have received many comments and complaints concerning Windows 8, from people I help with computer problems. Most of these point out that it is difficult to all of a sudden, navigate from years of XP, Vista and the much loved Windows 7 to an almost unrecognizable and frustrating computing experience.

This is not exactly fair, because Windows 8, (once you get into it), is in my opinion, quite an exciting transition.

Sure enough, Microsoft may have gone a little too far and may have miscalculated how frustrating some of the changes may have been. "Where is the start button ?", "I have quite a problem navigating around this crazy system", "How do I turn off the computer ?" "How do I create a repair disk and a mirror image of my system ?" These are all serious problems for those who all of a sudden get introduced to Windows 8 in their new computer.

Microsoft has also listened and fortunately has released a much improved Windows 8.1 preview pack, (just a beta format), that anybody can download and play with. The formal release of Windows 8.1 will be officially available later this Fall.

Many improvements that make using Windows 8 more palatable have been created, including a start button, not quite as useful and adaptable as our old friend we all were used to... But more about Windows 8.1 in a later post, "...

I downloaded the Windows 8.1 preview pack a couple of months ago and have been checking and experimenting all the new improvements offered with this upgrade. Frankly I like it a lot better than the original version.

Those of you who have Windows 8 in your computers, will be able to free download the new upgrade Windows 8.1 pretty soon. Here is the latest news as published by PCWorld a few weeks ago by Mr. Brad Chacos:

"A day after rampant rumors hinted at an October release date for the impending Windows 8.1 update, Microsoft has gone ahead and let the cat out of the bag: Windows 8.1 will roll out to users via the Windows Store at 7 A.M. Eastern time on October 17.

Microsoft's blog lists the technical release date as October 18, with the digital floodgates opening at midnight New Zealand time. Indeed, beyond its early Windows Store availability, The Verge reports that Windows 8.1's full-blown retail launch—boxed discs, new hardware, etc.—will be on October 18. Microsoft's manufacturing partners are expected to receive the final RTM version of Windows 8.1 by the end of August, giving them time to prepare for the launch.

While Windows 8.1 won't win over desktop diehards who loathe the new-look modern UI with a deep and utter hatred, the update is a true lesson in course correction and will do a lot to smooth over Windows 8's roughest edges. Windows 8.1 is chock-full of new features, new apps, new highlights, and yes, even new (and awesome!) secrets. And hey, even reluctant Windows 8 upgraders will find plenty to like. The switch between the dueling modern and desktop interfaces is no longer quite so jarring, and Windows 8.1 will even let you boot directly to the desktop.

Not too shabby for an update that's coming out just shy of Windows 8's one-year anniversary on October 26. Microsoft's also tossing business users a bone, with R2 versions of Windows Server 2012, System Center 2012 R2, and the latest update to Windows Intune being released at the same time as Windows 8.1.

Intrigued? Incredulous? Impatient? Just plain interested? Microsoft's already offering a preview version of the Windows 8.1 update for those daring souls who don't mind delving deep into unfinished software. Check out PCWorld's guide to installing the Windows 8.1 preview to give all the new features a whirl today".

There you have it, all you have to do is wait until October 17, 2013.

George Freire

Windows XP pending death is quickly approaching - Kim's Columns – Reviews and Advice on All Things Digital - The Kim Komando Radio Show

2013-09-12T16:35:00.001-04:00

Windows XP pending death is quickly approaching - Kim's Columns – Reviews and Advice on All Things Digital - The Kim Komando Radio Show

Windows 8 Helpful Hints

2013-07-30T18:29:00.000-04:00

Windows 8 has been here for over eight months and whether you love it of hate it, if you buy a new computer you are stuck, therefore try to make the best of the situation.

I have received many comments and complaints concerning Windows 8, from people I help with computer problems. Most of these point out that it is difficult to all of a sudden, navigate from years of XP, Vista and the much loved Windows 7 to an almost unrecognizable and frustrating computing experience.

This is not exactly fair, because Windows 8, (once you get into it), is in my opinion, quite an exciting transition.

Sure enough, Microsoft may have gone a little too far and may have miscalculated how frustrating some of the changes may have been. "Where is the start button ?", "I have quite a problem navigating around this crazy system", "How do I turn off the computer ?" "How do I create a repair disk and a mirror image of my system ?" These are all serious problems for those who all of a sudden get introduced to Windows 8 in their new computer.

Microsoft has also listened and fortunately has released a much improved Windows 8.1 preview pack, (just a beta format), that anybody can download and play with. The formal release of Windows 8.1 will be officially available later this Fall.

Many improvements that make using Windows 8 more palatable have been created, including a start button, not quite as useful and adaptable as our old friend we all were used to... But more about Windows 8.1 in a later post, maybe after I come back from Florida where I am going for a few days visiting one of my daughters who lives in the Orlando area.

For now I just want to touch on a very important subject:

"How to create a Repair Disk and a mirror image of your hard drive"

In Windows 8 a repair disk is now called a "Recovery Drive".

A "Recovery Drive" will allow you to boot your system and easily access a number of recovery and troubleshooting tools that you can use to repair your Windows 8 system in case of need.

Windows 8 allows you to create a Recovery Drive using a USB flash memory stick, (this feature was not available in Windows 7). A Recovery Drive has more capabilities than the "old" Repair Disk, among them being able to backup an OEM recovery partition. However you can also create a Recovery Drive on a DVD-R disk using the old System Repair Disk user interface. (More about this later).

The contents of the Recovery Drive will require about 256MB of space. For that you can use a 1 GB USB flash memory stick. If your hard drive includes the OEM recovery partition and most likely it does, you will need a larger capacity flash memory stick of least a 16GB. (In my case, because I already had installed quite a few applications, I had to use a 32 GB USB flash memory stick.

Before we go into details, check some of the useful Windows 8 short cuts, which I referred to in a post dated 11/24/2012 "Windows 8 Hot Keys"

Here is what you have to do to create a Recovery Drive in a USB flash memory stick:

- Use the Hot Key function [Windows] + W keystroke; this will take you to the "access the Search Settings page".

-Type "Recovery Drive" in the text box, and click "Create a recovery drive" in the box under SETTINGS.

- If a "User Account Control" box appears, click "yes". This will take you to the first screen in the Recovery Drive wizard dialog box. (If your computer came with an OEM recovery partition, the Copy the recovery partition check box will be enabled). Click "Next".

-Another dialog box opens. It shows the selection of USB drives, (which should include the one you have plugged in. Example: "H:\ (USB Flash Drive)". Click "Next".

-Another dialog box opens showing:

"Create the Recovery Drive"

"Everything on the drive will be deleted. If you have any personal files on this drive, make sure you have backed up the files."

-Click "Create"

-Windows 8 will format the drive and will start copying files to the drive. A new box will open showing the the process running. If you are creating a basic Recovery Disk, the process will be done in no time flat, however if a recovery partition is included it will take an hour or two...

-Upon completion of the process, Windows 8 opens to show its contents.

-Close the Recovery Drive wizard by clicking the Finish button, unplug your Flash Drive and keep it safe !!!

Have fun.

George Freire