TOMA-TECH

How To Skip Login page on Windows

2011-07-30T12:35:00.000-07:00

If you would rather not have to enter your username and password to log in to the Windows operating system, use the automatic logon feature to bypass the login screen. The operating system then takes you directly to the Windows desktop when you turn on your computer, saving you a bit of time.

STEPS:

• Hold down the "Windows" key, located to the left of the space bar, and press the "R" key.

• Type "control userpasswords2" -- without quotes -- in the dialog box that appears.

• Highlight the Windows user account you wish to automatically login to on the "User Accounts" window that appears.

• Untick the box marked "Users must enter a user name and password to use this computer.

• Click the "Apply" button. A window appears, requesting that you enter the username and password.

• Enter the username you wish to use to automatically log on and enter the password twice in the fields.

• Click "OK." Windows saves your automatic logon settings.

Troubleshooting Computer Freeze (Lockup) Problems

2010-04-13T08:49:00.000-07:00

How familiar does the following sound? Your computer was working fine, but then suddenly started locking up (aka hanging or freezing), rebooting itself (crashing) or shutting down spontaneously? If you know only too well what I am talking about, then read on! Performing the simple steps below can fix the majority of lockup cases.

1. Check for recently installed software or hardware.

If the lockups started to happen after you installed a new peace of hardware, new software program, or new drivers, uninstall it and see if the problem goes away.

2. Run your antivirus program.
One of the first things to do in the case of sudden lockups is to run your antivirus program. Check your antivirus manufacturer's website for updates and latest virus definition files. (This is absolutely necessary, outdated antivirus is not going to be of any use!) If you don't have antivirus software installed - or if updates are unavailable - run one of the web-based antivirus scans that some major antivirus vendors like Trend Micro are offering for free. You can find a comprehensive list of available web-based scans and free antivirus programs on http://www.free-antivirus.info.

3. Run some good spyware removal tool.
If your machine is not infected with any viruses, it is still possible that it has some harmful adware or spyware is present. Download and run some good spyware removal tool such as AdAware or Microsoft AntiSpyware. Check http://www.free-antivirus.info for a list of free spyware removal applications.

4. Check for free hard drive space.
When no viruses are found, check out free hard drive space on drive C:. Make sure there is more than 20% of free space available; low disk space can lead to random lockups.

5. Check for overheating.
Overheating is another known cause of lockups. It can be caused by problems with fans inside the case, dust buildup, or other cooling problems. Make sure the power supply fan and CPU fan are running and free of dust buildup. You can check the temperatures inside the case by running Motherboard monitor
http://mbm.livewiredev.com
- make sure the temperatures are within the preset limits. Be very careful while cleaning inside the computer case (use plastic vacuum crevice tool) and NEVER OPEN THE POWER SUPPLY CASE as it contains high voltage.

6. Check the hard disk.
Check the hard disk - it is possible that its logical structure is corrupted. To check the disk for errors, right-click on the disk C: icon in "My Computer", select the "Tools" tab, check all check boxes in the "Check disk options" field, and press the "Check now" button. It should ask whether you want to schedule the check next time you restart your computer - answer "Yes" and restart your PC. The check will be performed automatically after startup; it can take a while, so be patient. The program will attempt to fix some problems automatically - however, if the hard disk is failing physically, it will need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to run Disk Defragmenter (located in Start Menu > Programs > Accessories > System Tools) to optimize data placement on the hard disk for increased performance and reliability.

7. Check the memory.
Sometimes random lockups can be attributed to the computer memory (RAM) starting to fail. You can test the memory by running Windows Memory Diagnostic that can be downloaded from http://oca.microsoft.com/en/windiag.asp. If memory problems are found, try re-seating the RAM (pull it out and plug it back in). If it doesn't work, replace the defective RAM.

8. Check for other hardware problems (advanced users).
More hardware-related problems can be diagnosed by running hardware tests from the Ultimate Boot CD that can be downloaded from http://www.ultimatebootcd.com. However, you should only use it if you know what are you doing - some programs on that CD can be dangerous when used inappropriately (for example, some of them can wipe the contents of your hard disk).

9. Update Windows and drivers.
Some lockups can be caused by outdated software components - update your windows and drives by running a windows update: http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com (it's good idea to run it regularly).

The above steps will help diagnose and eliminate the most common causes of lockups. Hundreds more of other possible scenarios need to be dealt with on a case-by-case basis, as it all goes down to your particular computer configuration.

NOKIA SECRET CODES

2010-03-30T04:33:00.001-07:00

These Nokia codes will work on most Nokia Mobile Phones,

Code
Description

*3370#
Activate Enhanced Full Rate Codec (EFR) - Your phone uses the best sound quality but talk time is reduced my approx. 5%

#3370#
Deactivate Enhanced Full Rate Codec (EFR)

*4720#
Activate Half Rate Codec - Your phone uses a lower quality sound but you should gain approx 30% more Talk Time.

#4720#
Deactivate Half Rate Codec.

*#0000#
Displays your phones software version, 1st Line : Software Version, 2nd Line : Software Release Date, 3rd Line : Compression Type.

*#9999#
Phones software version if *#0000# does not work.

*#06#
For checking the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI Number).

#pw+1234567890+1#
Provider Lock Status. (use the “*” button to obtain the “p,w” and “+” symbols).

#pw+1234567890+2#
Network Lock Status. (use the “*” button to obtain the “p,w” and “+” symbols).

#pw+1234567890+3#
Country Lock Status. (use the “*” button to obtain the “p,w” and “+” symbols).

#pw+1234567890+4#
SIM Card Lock Status. (use the “*” button to obtain the “p,w” and “+” symbols).

*#21#
Allows you to check the number that “All Calls” are diverted to.

*#2640#
Displays security code in use.

*#30#
Lets you see the private number.

*#43#
Allows you to check the “Call Waiting” status of your phone.

*#61#
Allows you to check the number that “On No Reply” calls are diverted to.

*#62#
Allows you to check the number that “Divert If Unreachable (no service)” calls are diverted to.

*#67#
Allows you to check the number that “On Busy Calls” are diverted to.

*#67705646#
Removes operator logo on 3310 and 3330.

*#73#
Reset phone timers and game scores.

*#746025625#
Displays the SIM Clock status, if your phone supports this power saving feature “SIM Clock Stop Allowed”, it means you will get the best standby time possible.

*#7760#
Manufactures code.

*#7780#
Restore factory settings.

*#8110#
Software version for the nokia 8110.

*#92702689#
Displays - 1.Serial Number, 2.Date Made, 3.Purchase Date, 4.Date of last repair (0000 for no repairs), 5.Transfer User Data. To exit this mode you need to switch your phone off then on again.

*#94870345123456789#
Deactivate the PWM-Mem.

**21*number#
Turn on “All Calls” diverting to the phone number entered.

**61*number#
Turn on “No Reply” diverting to the phone number entered.

**67*number#
Turn on “On Busy” diverting to the phone number entered.

12345
This is the default security code.

press and hold #
Lets you switch between lines.

HOW TO EXTEND LAPTOP BATTERY LIFE

2010-02-12T14:33:00.001-08:00

Here are a few steps you can take to stretch out the available electrons in your
battery.

Adjust your power settings:
To take advantage of power-saving features the manufacturer has built into your
laptop, you'll want to consult your user manual, as they vary from one machine to
the next. But you can also give battery life a significant boost by tweaking the
power options in your operating system.

Here's how:
Windows Vista gives you control of how your laptop manages power by bundling
various hardware and system settings into three default power-plan options:
Balanced offers full performance when you need it, but conserves power when your
laptop is idle.
Power saver gives the biggest boost for extending battery life, but results in
lower performance.
High performance maximizes system performance at the expense of battery life.
Switching between plans is a simple two-step process:
1. Click the battery meter icon, located in the notification area on the Windows
taskbar.
2. Select one of the three default power plans: Balanced, Power saver or High
performance.

Windows XP offers two power schemes designed for laptops and other portable PCs:
The Portable/Laptop power scheme minimizes power use to conserve battery life, but
adjusts as your processing needs change so system speed isn't sacrificed.
The Max Battery power scheme also minimizes power use but doesn't adjust to
changing processing demands. This setting is meant for situations requiring
minimal processing, such as reading documents or taking notes.
To switch from the Portable/Laptop power scheme to Max Battery:
1. Click Start, and then click Control Panel.
2. In Control Panel, verify that you're in Category view, and then click
Performance and Maintenance.
3. In the Performance and Maintenance window, click Power Options.
4. On the Power Schemes tab of the Power OptionsProperties dialog box, click the
arrow under Power Schemes, and then click Max Battery.
5. Click OK.

Care and maintenance of your battery
There are a few best practices that can help preserve battery life:
-Keep your laptop battery out of extreme heat.
-Clean the battery with dry cloth, especially at the metal connectors.
-Defrag your hard drive regularly so it runs efficiently.
-Clean your battery contacts with rubbing alcohol periodically.
-Use Hibernate mode rather than Standby mode.
-When plugged in to the AC outlet for a long period of time, Take out the battery
from the system.
-Fully discharge the battery once a month by unplugging the AC power cord. After
that, charge it again completely.
Saving power on the fly
Here are some quick things you can do for short-term gain when you suddenly
realize you don't have enough juice to last through a meeting or plane ride:
-Dim your display; the less brightness the less power consumption.
-Close down unessential programs and keep graphics use to a minimum.
-Remove devices you aren't using, such as a USB flash drive or a DVD.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR COMPUTER FROM HACKERS

2010-02-12T14:31:00.000-08:00

It's dead easy to get a computer these days but maintaining the computer and protecting your data both offline and online requires a lot of work. However there are certain precautons you can take that will guarantee a reasonable degree of security.

-Your (Internet Protocol) IP address acts as a major source of information for hackers. Your IP is visible to almost anyone on the internet when you visit sites. It is advisable to key in anonymous proxies in your browsers or use anonimity softwares while surfing the net.

-Always update your anti-virus software as new viruses are developed everyday. It is also important to have a reliable firewall software.

-Passwords are supposed to act as a means of security but you have to secure it. How? Never use a nickname, a family name or a word that can be guessed easily. Use a combination of letters, figures and symbols. This will make your password hard to crack.

-Never visit suspicious sites. Never make payments in a site with expired or invalid ssl certificate.

-Try as much as possible not to open spam mails as some may contain viruses.

-Disconnect your internet connection when not in use as this will reduce the chance of your computer getting hacked.

-Regularly check your list of installed progrms as someone might install a keylogger on your PC.

Hackers can plant spywares on your computer, get your credit card and bank details, delete your files, infect your computer with viruses that might crash your OS. It is way better to prevent these from happening as some damages might be irreparable.

How to recover you data when computer refuse to boot

2009-11-01T16:27:00.000-08:00

A lot of times we have been victims of data lose in one way or the other. Hard disk failure is an inevitable event that must happen one day, because of this it is therefore important that we know what to do even if we hav backed up, but what of the most recent job you just did that you have not backed up? Are you going to lose that one?.
When your computer suddenly refuses to boot there are some steps that you can take to retrieve your files.

1. Get an External Case

Once your computer refuse to boot the most reliable means of retrieving your data is to get a Hard disk external case that you can connect to another computer using a USB cable. This method gives you access to your files before calling a pro.

2. Use a LiveCD

Don’t have access to a second computer for doing as you please? This method will be ideal, then. You’ll need to get temporary access to a computer with Internet and a DVD burner. Download a Linux LiveCD, Small Linux is the smallest, but also has issues mounting hard drives. The most simple for an average computer user would be Puppy Linux. It has a larger file size, but should recognize your drive.
Burn the Live CD ISO to a CD and insert it into your computer (the one with the crashed hard drive). Restart the computer and when it the computer logo appears, press F2 (or whatever key for your system) to enter BIOS. Change the boot sequence to CD first, Save and then Exit.

The Live CD will start, simply follow the directions on the screen–don’t worry, nothing is being done to your hard drive. The OS will start, and you should see your hard drive mounted on the desktop–something like “60GB”, etc. Plug in a second drive and copy and paste the folders over.

3. Data Recovery Software

if these two options sound confusing or difficult, you can get a data recovery software for just few $ and use it to recover your files. There are a lot of such software’s on the net some you can use their trial version to get your files.

5. Call a Professional

If you fell is very difficult for you, simply take your hard drive a professional that will be able to retrieve your document, it may be costly but it’s worth it except the files is not very important.

Those that bought pirated copy unknowingly follow these steps to remove this black screen and the notification.

2009-11-01T16:21:00.000-08:00

Well for you that bought pirated copy unknowingly follow these steps to remove this black screen and the notification.

Firstly, you have to terminate the process form running on your computer secondly you have to change the name of the files that are running the process. Then change your desktop back to what you where using before.

Right click on your task bar, click on task manager, click process tab look for the process with the name “wgatray.exe” right click on it and click end process tree, a warning message will appear click yes, the process will be terminated.
Secondly double click on my computer, double click drive C: double click windows folder, double click system 32 folder, look for two files, “wgatray.exe”. When you locate the file, right click on the file and rename them to whatever you want.
Then restart your computer. Your computer should be in good state now.

Note: After removing the notification simply change you desktop wallpaper again.

Megabytes, Gigabytes, Terabytes, Petabyte, is there More ???

2009-11-01T15:49:00.000-08:00

Processor or Virtual Storage

· 1 Bit = Binary Digit
· 8 Bits = 1 Byte
· 1024 Bytes = 1 Kilobyte
· 1024 Kilobytes = 1 Megabyte
· 1024 Megabytes = 1 Gigabyte
· 1024 Gigabytes = 1 Terabyte
· 1024 Terabytes = 1 Petabyte
· 1024 Petabytes = 1 Exabyte
· 1024 Exabytes = 1 Zettabyte
· 1024 Zettabytes = 1 Yottabyte
· 1024 Yottabytes = 1 Brontobyte
· 1024 Brontobytes = 1 Geopbyte

Disk Storage

· 1 Bit = Binary Digit
· 8 Bits = 1 Byte
· 1000 Bytes = 1 Kilobyte
· 1000 Kilobytes = 1 Megabyte
· 1000 Megabytes = 1 Gigabyte
· 1000 Gigabytes = 1 Terabyte
· 1000 Terabytes = 1 Petabyte
· 1000 Petabytes = 1 Exabyte
· 1000 Exabytes = 1 Zettabyte
· 1000 Zettabytes = 1 Yottabyte
· 1000 Yottabytes = 1 Brontobyte
· 1000 Brontobytes = 1 Geopbyte

Megabytes, Gigabytes, Terabytes… What Are They?

These terms are usually used in the world of computing to describe disk space, or data storage space, and system memory. For instance, just a few years ago we were describing hard drive space using the term Megabytes. Today, Gigabytes is the most common term being used to describe the size of a hard drive. In the not so distant future, Terabyte will be a common term. But what are they? This is where it gets quite confusing because there are at least three accepted definitions of each term.

According to the IBM Dictionary of computing, when used to describe disk storage capacity, a megabyte is 1,000,000 bytes in decimal notation. But when the term megabyte is used for real and virtual storage, and channel volume, 2 to the 20th power or 1,048,576 bytes is the appropriate notation. According to the Microsoft Press Computer Dictionary, a megabyte means either 1,000,000 bytes or 1,048,576 bytes. According to Eric S. Raymond in The New Hacker's Dictionary, a megabyte is always 1,048,576 bytes on the argument that bytes should naturally be computed in powers of two. So which definition do most people conform to?

When referring to a megabyte for disk storage, the hard drive manufacturers use the standard that a megabyte is 1,000,000 bytes. This means that when you buy an 80 Gigabyte Hard drive you will get a total of 80,000,000,000 bytes of available storage. This is where it gets confusing because Windows uses the 1,048,576 byte rule so when you look at the Windows drive properties an 80 Gigabyte drive will report a capacity of 74.56 Gigabytes and a 250 Gigabyte drive will only yield 232 Gigabytes of available storage space. Anybody confused yet? With three accepted definitions, there will always be some confusion so I will try to simplify the definitions a little.

The 1000 can be replaced with 1024 and still be correct using the other acceptable standards. Both of these standards are correct depending on what type of storage you are referring.
Processor or Virtual Storage
· 1 Bit = Binary Digit
· 8 Bits = 1 Byte
· 1024 Bytes = 1 Kilobyte
· 1024 Kilobytes = 1 Megabyte
· 1024 Megabytes = 1 Gigabyte
· 1024 Gigabytes = 1 Terabyte
· 1024 Terabytes = 1 Petabyte
· 1024 Petabytes = 1 Exabyte
· 1024 Exabytes = 1 Zettabyte
· 1024 Zettabytes = 1 Yottabyte
· 1024 Yottabytes = 1 Brontobyte
· 1024 Brontobytes = 1 Geopbyte

Disk Storage

· 1 Bit = Binary Digit
· 8 Bits = 1 Byte
· 1000 Bytes = 1 Kilobyte
· 1000 Kilobytes = 1 Megabyte
· 1000 Megabytes = 1 Gigabyte
· 1000 Gigabytes = 1 Terabyte
· 1000 Terabytes = 1 Petabyte
· 1000 Petabytes = 1 Exabyte
· 1000 Exabytes = 1 Zettabyte
· 1000 Zettabytes = 1 Yottabyte
· 1000 Yottabytes = 1 Brontobyte
· 1000 Brontobytes = 1 Geopbyte

This is based on the IBM Dictionary of computing method to describe disk storage - the simplest.

Now let's go into a little more detail.

Bit: A Bit is the smallest unit of data that a computer uses. It can be used to represent two states of information, such as Yes or No.

Byte: A Byte is equal to 8 Bits. A Byte can represent 256 states of information, for example, numbers or a combination of numbers and letters. 1 Byte could be equal to one character. 10 Bytes could be equal to a word. 100 Bytes would equal an average sentence.

Kilobyte: A Kilobyte is approximately 1,000 Bytes, actually 1,024 Bytes depending on which definition is used. 1 Kilobyte would be equal to this paragraph you are reading, whereas 100 Kilobytes would equal an entire page.

Megabyte: A Megabyte is approximately 1,000 Kilobytes. In the early days of computing, a Megabyte was considered to be a large amount of data. These days with a 500 Gigabyte hard drive on a computer being common, a Megabyte doesn't seem like much anymore. One of those old 3-1/2 inch floppy disks can hold 1.44 Megabytes or the equivalent of a small book. 100 Megabytes might hold a couple volumes of Encyclopedias. 600 Megabytes is about the amount of data that will fit on a CD-ROM disk.

Gigabyte: A Gigabyte is approximately 1,000 Megabytes. A Gigabyte is a very common term used these days when referring to disk space or drive storage. 1 Gigabyte of data is almost twice the amount of data that a CD-ROM can hold. But it's about one thousand times the capacity of a 3-1/2 floppy disk. 1 Gigabyte could hold the contents of about 10 yards of books on a shelf. 100 Gigabytes could hold the entire library floor of academic journals.

Terabyte: A Terabyte is approximately one trillion bytes, or 1,000 Gigabytes. Now we are getting up there to a size that is so large that it is not a common term yet. To put it in some perspective, a Terabyte could hold about 3.6 million 300 Kilobyte images or maybe about 300 hours of good quality video. A Terabyte could hold 1,000 copies of the Encyclopedia Britannica. Ten Terabytes could hold the printed collection of the Library of Congress. That's a lot of data.

Petabyte: A Petabyte is approximately 1,000 Terabytes or one million Gigabytes. It's hard to visualize what a Petabyte could hold. 1 Petabyte could hold approximately 20 million 4-door filing cabinets full of text. It could hold 500 billion pages of standard printed text. It would take about 500 million floppy disks to store the same amount of data.

Exabyte: An Exabyte is approximately 1,000 Petabytes. Another way to look at it is that a Petabyte is approximately one quintillion bytes or one billion Gigabytes. There is not much to compare an Exabyte to. It has been said that 5 Exabytes would be equal to all of the words ever spoken by mankind.

Zettabyte: A Zettabyte is approximately 1,000 Exabytes. There is nothing to compare a Zettabyte to but to say that it would take a whole lot of ones and zeroes to fill it up.

Yottabyte: A Yottabyte is approximately 1,000 Zettabytes. It would take approximately 11 trillion years to download a yottabyte file from the Internet using high-power broadband. You can compare it to the World Wide Web as the entire Internet almost takes up a Yottabyte.

Brontobyte: A Brontobyte is (you guessed it) approximately 1,000 Yottabytes. The only thing there is to say about a Brontobyte is that it is a 1 followed by 27 zeroes!

Geopbyte: A Geopbyte is about 1000 Brontobytes! Not sure why this term was created. I'm doubting that anyone alive today will ever see a Geopbyte hard drive. One way of looking at a geopbyte is 15267 6504600 2283229 4012496 7031205 376 bytes!

Now you should have a good understanding of megabytes, gigabytes, terabytes and everything in between.

Tripple The Speed Of Your Internet

2009-07-17T16:03:00.000-07:00

This only works on XP professional and Vista. This also works only for broadband users.

1. Click start - run - and type in gpedit.msc and press Enter

2.Expand "Computer Configuration"

3. Expand "Administrative Templates"

4. Expand "Network"

5. Click on "QoS Packet Scheduler"

6. On the right, under "Settings", double click on "Limit reservable bandwidth"

7. A window will pop up, and under "Settings" tab select "Enabled" and make Bandwidth limit (%) - 0

8. Click OK

9. DONE!

Now your speed will be 3 times faster as your previous speed! You can check it by downloading something or go onto speed testing website.

For explanation to this setting when you double click "Limit reservable bandwidth" click the "Explain" tab.

HOW TO REMOVE RAILA ODINGA VIRUS

2009-05-20T22:43:00.000-07:00

How to remove raila odinga virus is a very easy process. Firstly, Raila odinga is a worm that attacks Microsoft word files, but it looks like a JPG file and mostly found on the desktop. Raila odinga has some common characteristics

1. If you delete the picture file it will delete and return to where it where.
2. It runs from the driver folder in system 32 folder
3. it auto runs at system startup
4. It makes the computer boot slowly
5. It makes your computer to hang.
6. It creates new folder.exe folders in your computer

How to remove raila odinga virus, open my computer, double click drive C: open WINDOWS folder, double click on system 32 folder, open driver folder, locate the word file in the folder, note the name. Right click on the task bar, open task manager, click on the process tab locate the name of the word file you saw in the drive folder, right click on the name of the file, click end process, to terminate the running process Open the driver folder of system 32 where the file is, delete all the ms word files on that folder, then close the folder locate the raila odinga picture file usually on the desktop or somewhere in your computer, delete the picture file. Please do not double click on the picture file only delete it, finally empty your recycle bin and restart your computer. That way odinga is off your machine.

How To Make Use Of Computer Keyboard Shortcuts

2009-03-08T06:51:00.000-07:00

General Keyboard Shortcuts

• CTRL+C (Copy)

• CTRL+X (Cut)

• CTRL+V (Paste)

• CTRL+Z (Undo)

• DELETE (Delete)

• SHIFT+DELETE (Delete the selected item permanently without placing the item in the Recycle Bin)

• CTRL while dragging an item (Copy the selected item)

• CTRL+SHIFT while dragging an item (Create a shortcut to the selected item)

• F2 key (Rename the selected item)

• CTRL+RIGHT ARROW (Move the insertion point to the beginning of the next word)

• CTRL+LEFT ARROW (Move the insertion point to the beginning of the previous word)

• CTRL+DOWN ARROW (Move the insertion point to the beginning of the next paragraph)

• CTRL+UP ARROW (Move the insertion point to the beginning of the previous paragraph)

• CTRL+SHIFT with any of the arrow keys (Highlight a block of text)

• SHIFT with any of the arrow keys (Select more than one item in a window or on the desktop, or select text in a document)

• CTRL+A (Select all)

• F3 key (Search for a file or a folder)

• ALT+ENTER (View the properties for the selected item)

• ALT+F4 (Close the active item, or quit the active program)

• ALT+ENTER (Display the properties of the selected object)

• ALT+SPACEBAR (Open the shortcut menu for the active window)

• CTRL+F4 (Close the active document in programs that enable you to have multiple documents open simultaneously)

• ALT+TAB (Switch between the open items)

• ALT+ESC (Cycle through items in the order that they had been opened)

• F6 key (Cycle through the screen elements in a window or on the desktop)

• F4 key (Display the Address bar list in My Computer or Windows Explorer)

• SHIFT+F10 (Display the shortcut menu for the selected item)

• ALT+SPACEBAR (Display the System menu for the active window)

• CTRL+ESC (Display the Start menu)

• ALT+Underlined letter in a menu name (Display the corresponding menu)

• Underlined letter in a command name on an open menu (Perform the corresponding command)

• F10 key (Activate the menu bar in the active program)

• RIGHT ARROW (Open the next menu to the right, or open a submenu)

• LEFT ARROW (Open the next menu to the left, or close a submenu)

• F5 key (Update the active window)

• BACKSPACE (View the folder one level up in My Computer or Windows Explorer)

• ESC (Cancel the current task)

• SHIFT when you insert a CD-ROM into the CD-ROM drive (Prevent the CD-ROM from automatically playing)

• CTRL+SHIFT+ESC (Open Task Manager)

Dialog Box Keyboard Shortcuts

If you press SHIFT+F8 in extended selection list boxes, you enable extended selection mode. In this mode, you can use an arrow key to move a cursor without changing the selection. You can press CTRL+SPACEBAR or SHIFT+SPACEBAR to adjust the selection. To cancel extended selection mode, press SHIFT+F8 again. Extended selection mode cancels itself when you move the focus to another control.

• CTRL+TAB (Move forward through the tabs)

• CTRL+SHIFT+TAB (Move backward through the tabs)

• TAB (Move forward through the options)

• SHIFT+TAB (Move backward through the options)

• ALT+Underlined letter (Perform the corresponding command or select the corresponding option)

• ENTER (Perform the command for the active option or button)

• SPACEBAR (Select or clear the check box if the active option is a check box)

• Arrow keys (Select a button if the active option is a group of option buttons)

• F1 key (Display Help)

• F4 key (Display the items in the active list)

• BACKSPACE (Open a folder one level up if a folder is selected in the Save As or Open dialog box)

Microsoft natural keyboard shortcuts

• Windows Logo (Display or hide the Start menu)

• Windows Logo+BREAK (Display the System Properties dialog box)

• Windows Logo+D (Display the desktop)

• Windows Logo+M (Minimize all of the windows)

• Windows Logo+SHIFT+M (Restore the minimized windows)

• Windows Logo+E (Open My Computer)

• Windows Logo+F (Search for a file or a folder)

• CTRL+Windows Logo+F (Search for computers)

• Windows Logo+F1 (Display Windows Help)

• Windows Logo+ L (Lock the keyboard)

• Windows Logo+R (Open the Run dialog box)

• Windows Logo+U (Open Utility Manager)

Accessibility keyboard shortcuts

• Right SHIFT for eight seconds (Switch FilterKeys either on or off)

• Left ALT+left SHIFT+PRINT SCREEN (Switch High Contrast either on or off)

• Left ALT+left SHIFT+NUM LOCK (Switch the MouseKeys either on or off)

• SHIFT five times (Switch the StickyKeys either on or off)

• NUM LOCK for five seconds (Switch the ToggleKeys either on or off)

• Windows Logo +U (Open Utility Manager)

Windows Explorer keyboard shortcuts

• END (Display the bottom of the active window)

• HOME (Display the top of the active window)

• NUM LOCK+Asterisk sign (*) (Display all of the subfolders that are under the selected folder)

• NUM LOCK+Plus sign (+) (Display the contents of the selected folder)

• NUM LOCK+Minus sign (-) (Collapse the selected folder)

• LEFT ARROW (Collapse the current selection if it is expanded, or select the parent folder)

• RIGHT ARROW (Display the current selection if it is collapsed, or select the first subfolder)

Shortcut keys for Character Map

After you double-click a character on the grid of characters, you can move through the grid by using the keyboard shortcuts:

• RIGHT ARROW (Move to the right or to the beginning of the next line)

• LEFT ARROW (Move to the left or to the end of the previous line)

• UP ARROW (Move up one row)

• DOWN ARROW (Move down one row)

• PAGE UP (Move up one screen at a time)

• PAGE DOWN (Move down one screen at a time)

• HOME (Move to the beginning of the line)

• END (Move to the end of the line)

• CTRL+HOME (Move to the first character)

• CTRL+END (Move to the last character)

• SPACEBAR (Switch between Enlarged and Normal mode when a character is selected)

Microsoft Management Console (MMC) main window keyboard shortcuts

• CTRL+O (Open a saved console)

• CTRL+N (Open a new console)

• CTRL+S (Save the open console)

• CTRL+M (Add or remove a console item)

• CTRL+W (Open a new window)

• F5 key (Update the content of all console windows)

• ALT+SPACEBAR (Display the MMC window menu)

• ALT+F4 (Close the console)

• ALT+A (Display the Action menu)

• ALT+V (Display the View menu)

• ALT+F (Display the File menu)

• ALT+O (Display the Favorites menu)

MMC console window keyboard shortcuts

• CTRL+P (Print the current page or active pane)

• ALT+Minus sign (-) (Display the window menu for the active console window)

• SHIFT+F10 (Display the Action shortcut menu for the selected item)

• F1 key (Open the Help topic, if any, for the selected item)

• F5 key (Update the content of all console windows)

• CTRL+F10 (Maximize the active console window)

• CTRL+F5 (Restore the active console window)

• ALT+ENTER (Display the Properties dialog box, if any, for the selected item)

• F2 key (Rename the selected item)

• CTRL+F4 (Close the active console window. When a console has only one console window, this shortcut closes the console)

Remote desktop connection navigation

• CTRL+ALT+END (Open the Microsoft Windows NT Security dialog box)

• ALT+PAGE UP (Switch between programs from left to right)

• ALT+PAGE DOWN (Switch between programs from right to left)

• ALT+INSERT (Cycle through the programs in most recently used order)

• ALT+HOME (Display the Start menu)

• CTRL+ALT+BREAK (Switch the client computer between a window and a full screen)

• ALT+DELETE (Display the Windows menu)

• CTRL+ALT+Minus sign (-) (Place a snapshot of the entire client window area on the Terminal server clipboard and provide the same functionality as pressing ALT+PRINT SCREEN on a local computer.)

• CTRL+ALT+Plus sign (+) (Place a snapshot of the active window in the client on the Terminal server clipboard and provide the same functionality as pressing PRINT SCREEN on a local computer.)

Microsoft Internet Explorer navigation

• CTRL+B (Open the Organize Favorites dialog box)

• CTRL+E (Open the Search bar)

• CTRL+F (Start the Find utility)

• CTRL+H (Open the History bar)

• CTRL+I (Open the Favorites bar)

• CTRL+L (Open the Open dialog box)

• CTRL+N (Start another instance of the browser with the same Web address)

• CTRL+O (Open the Open dialog box, the same as CTRL+L)

• CTRL+P (Open the Print dialog box)

• CTRL+R (Update the current Web page)

• CTRL+W (Close the current window)

Safety Tips To Limit Your Exposure To Communication Gadgets

2009-03-07T06:33:00.001-08:00

To date, there are few alternatives to ensure complete safety, but there are some common sense recommendations:

• Limit the amount of time you spend on the phone.

• Limit your exposure to WiFi routers. Find out where they are located in your work environment and stay away from them.

• If you have any land based (non-cellular) portable phones, do NOT use anything other than the 900 MHz phones as the Gigahertz phones stay on continuously, blasting you with information carrying radio waves 24/7.

• Use the speakerphone instead of putting the phone to your ear; this is probably one of the single most important steps you can take other than not using your cell phone.

• Use a wired headset to limit your exposure to the cell phone—ideally, an air tube headset which conducts sound but prevents any radiation from traveling up the wire to your brain. Also make sure the wire is SHIELDED which prevents the wire from acting as an antenna which could attract more information carrying radio waves directly to your brain.

• Limit calls inside buildings.

• Use the phone in open spaces as often as possible

• Limit use by children and preadolescents.

HOW TO PASSWORD A FLASH DRIVE

2009-02-24T12:45:00.000-08:00

Flash Drives are convenient, compact and affordable devices that provide portability and peace-of-mind for those who need to back up or transfer important data from one computer to another. To safeguard valuable data in case of flash drive theft or loss, you should password protect your flash drive. While some removable drives include factory password protection, others don't automatically provide protection. Many password and encryption programs are free while others are available for purchase.

Instructions

Encrypt Individual Files and Folders on a Flash Drive

Step1
Choose "Tools" from the menu bar at the top of the program, such as Microsoft Word, and pick "Options."

Step2
Select "Security" from the many tabs displayed in the new popup window. Create a password in the "Password to Open" or "Password to Modify" section and click "OK" at the bottom of the box.

Step3
Confirm your password when prompted. Drag the password protected files to your flash drive. To open a protected file, enter password when prompted. Remember, passwords are case sensitive.

Encrypt Entire Flash Drive

Step1
Download and install the freeware program "Cryptainer LE" onto your PC or laptop. Enter a meaningful password from 8 to 100 characters and define the file location and size, which you can change at a later time. Enter your password when prompted.

Step2
Install Cryptainer Mobile when the Cryptainer LE installation is complete. Select "Tools" on the menu bar at the top of your screen. Select "Install Cryptainer Mobile" and follow the prompts. The Mobile version comes with the LE download.

Step3
Close the LE version on your desktop. Select a location and meaningful password for the Mobile version. To protect important files and folders, drag and drop them into the vault, the location of the encrypted files.

SOME USEFUL NOKIA CODES

2009-02-12T08:49:00.000-08:00

*#06# for checking the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity). *#7780# reset to factory settings. *#67705646# This will clear the LCD display(operator logo). *#0000# To view software version. *#2820# Bluetooth device address. *#746025625# Sim clock allowed status. #pw+1234567890+1# Shows if sim have restrictions. *#92702689# - takes you to a secret menu where you may find some useful information.

SIMPLE WAY TO UNLOCK A PHONE THAT IS BLOCKED AS A RESULT OF ENTERING WRONG PASSWORDS

2009-02-12T08:40:00.000-08:00

Phone locked enter password: take this procedure serious as it can save you nothing less than N3000. Do you know that there’s a way of helping yourself when your phone is blocked as a result of wrong insertion of your phone’s password. Well, here is the info.
1. Switch off the phone
2. Remove the battery and the SIM card
3. Then return the battery again but without the SIM Card
4. Switch the phone on and press the following buttons: *2767*2878#, press ok/send/yes. The phone will trip off automatically.
5. Then switch the phone on again and the problem is over.
6. N. B: for new versions of phones, use *2767*7377#

How to Access VISTA without a Password

2009-01-18T11:03:00.000-08:00

Lose your Vista Administrator password? Not to worry. You can easily access Vista and reset your administrator password in a few simple steps.

Instructions:

Step1
START THE COMPUTER. DO THIS BY PRESSING THE POWER BUTTON. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL WINDOW LOADS TO PERFORM STEP 2.

Step2
PRESS F8 KEY ***BEFORE*** WINDOWS VISTA BEGINS START UP. THIS WILL PROVIDE A LIST OF OPTIONS FOR HOW TO PROCEED.

Step3
CHOOSE TO START YOUR COMPUTER IN "SAFE MODE".

Step4
OPEN THE START MENU.

Step5
OPEN THE CONTROL PANEL (from within the Start Menu).

Step6
SELECT "USER ACCOUNTS AND FAMILY SAFETY" IN THE CONTROL PANEL POP-UP WINDOW.

Step7
CLICK THE "CHANGE YOUR WINDOWS PASSWORD" LINK BENEATH THE "USER ACCOUNTS" SECTION.

Step8
CLICK "REMOVE PASSWORD". VERIFY AND SUBMIT.

Step9
RESTART YOUR COMPUTER NORMALLY. DO NOT PRESS F8.

Step10
TO RESET A PASSWORD, ACCESS THE "USER ACCOUNTS AND FAMILY SAFETY" MENU AGAIN. THIS TIME CLICK "CHANGE YOUR WINDOWS PASSWORD", PROVIDE THE DESIRED PASSWORD, VERIFY AND SUBMIT. THIS TIME, WRITE YOUR PASSWORD DOWN.

WEB 2 PHONE

2009-01-17T10:33:00.000-08:00

Send free sms to all mobile networks in the world using the fast and easy auto completion feature. All u need to do is to register on http://www.mjoy.com/, and start sending sms 4 free . Remember to send me email if u see anything tangible in my site. Just read down.

How To Back Up Your Data

2009-01-16T11:34:00.000-08:00

Just about everybody has important data on their hard drive, from digital pictures to important documents, emails, earmarked websites the list goes on and on. In my experience people are pretty lax about backing up their PCs, and I think this really is an area that deserves attention. With a good back up set you can bounce back from a fatal hard drive crash and be up and running with all the your pictures, documents, downloads, email and favorites before you know it. Having important files stored on removable media is also a good safety precaution in case you get a virus or Trojan horse.

There are a couple of different ways to back up important data, from the casual copy and paste to running complicated scheduled backups. There is no wrong way, as long you have a copy of everything you need.
You can save the data on a couple of different types of media (floppy, ZIP, CD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW, Flash memory, even dat drives) but for home use I really recommend either CDs or DVDs, floppies are just to small, Zips, although bigger than floppies are still small (100-200MB), and they're old and kind of expensive. Flash memory can store data but it's not really something you want to save data to and store away unless there is no other option. DAT tapes are more for the corporate end of things and are overkill in most homes. CDs are cheap, hold a lot of data, work on any PC and are easy to store.

If you use CD-RW, or DVD-RW you can actually save money by setting up a "round robin" with your backups. To do this, you need at lest 3-4 of the same backup set, take the oldest and erase it. Now use the blank disk for the new backup, the next time you do a backup use the oldest disk in the set and so on and so forth.
As for the methods of backing up, I find it's easiest when all my intended files and folders are organized in structured manner and not scattered all over my hard drive. This is a good way to insure that you don't forget anything important by hunting for a bunch of individual files. An easy way to stay organized is to create a descriptively labeled folder structure and try to be diligent about saving your data to it's designed folder.

Another good practice is to test your backups, don't just take the burning software's word for it. After a backup, explore the disk and randomly go through files and open them up to make sure that they're complete and not corrupt. Learn from my experience, waiting for a complete system failure is not a good time to check the validity of your backups. This is a good way to get yourself in a lot of trouble as well ?I know if didn't back up the pictures or movies of our kids I wouldn't be able to live with my self.

Once you have all your ducks in a row, it's time to back up. There are a number of ways to do this as well. The easiest is to open you burning program and select data CD and go through the folder then explorer and grab the folders you want to back up. When you select a folder you should see it in the "burn" selection window, once you done with your backup selection choose "burn".
If you have Windows XP you have the luxury of being able to open up the blank CD or DVD in Windows Explorer and copying and pasting the desired folders right onto the disk and select "Write files to CD" and Windows will do the rest for you. This is nice but not all of us have XP, and I personally still like to use my third-party software.

Most burning software has their own backup services, and there are a number of third-party back up titles out there. The nice thing about using these types of software is the options. Things like compression, backup jobs, and incremental backups. These are nice features especially when you have some backups that you want to insure are up to date. For instance, you can create a "Back up Set" which is basically a saved and named list of folders and files that you want backed up. This makes the whole process so easy?you can create a backup set and once a week or so your can run it and it will either create a new back up or save just the changes to the backup.

These are two options that are usually found in backup programs. If you use "backup sets", it's important to keep the files organized, and in all the correct folders. You can also schedule Backup Jobs, which are basically backup sets that are scheduled to run at predetermined times, and intervals

How to remove an extra operating system

2009-01-16T11:17:00.000-08:00

If you have more then one operating system installed or wishto remove an operating system from the boot menu, you can use the following information.

1.Click on Start, Control Panel, System, Advanced.

2.Under Startup and Recovery, click Settings.

3.Under Default Operating System, choose one of the following:
"Microsoft Windows XP Professional /fastdetect"-or-"Microsoft Windows XP Home /fasdetect"-or-"Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional /fastdetect"

4.Take the check mark out of the box for "Time to display a list of Operating Systems".

5.Click Apply and Ok, and reboot the system.

How to speed up your slow internet connection?

2009-01-16T11:13:00.000-08:00

Today a special tip for those who are still using any slow dial-up internet connection due to unavailability of any broadband connection in their area. The Web Accelerator application designed to provide the full acceleration for your routine web sites browsing. With the help of Web Accelerator you can browse your internet 4 to 6 times faster than normal dial-up connection. Basically this services compressing the website text data, images and heavy graphics to open or download this data with high speed.

This technique is more useful for static websites and for email applications but don't accelerate with secure and downloading audio or video files. Some good web accelerator retains your system cache to reuse websites with faster speed and can also block windows pop-up. If you are using FTP sites and downloading any program using dial-up, then web accelerator is not for you. There are various web accelerator software are free available on internet, visit and download it to enjoy your connection.

How to Maintain a Healthy Computer

2009-01-03T04:46:00.000-08:00

As much as we don't want to admit it, when our computers are unhappy, we are unhappy. So, much like our own health, it is important to maintain a healthy computer. A healthy computer will run smoothly, and your personal data will be safe. It is important to give computers the attention that they deserve to be healthy and functional.

Step1

Make sure you have anti-virus software installed. Keep it up to date, and don't let it expire! Make sure that your computer is scanned weekly, and perform a manual scan whenever you think it is necessary. If you do not have a virus scan, AVG Free is a great, free virus scan software option.

Step2

If you have Microsoft Windows, complete all of your Windows updates on a regular basis. These may include important safety updates, so it is not wise to ignore them.

Step3

Install spyware prevention software. Unwanted ads can be troublesome to your patience and your computer's health. Keeping spyware off of your computer will help your computer maintain good health and run smoothly.

Step4

Things happen to computers, even if the computers are well taken care of. Because of this, make sure to back up your computer on a regular basis. Back up all important computer data so you will not lose it in the event of a computer crash.

Step5

Only install software that you trust. Random, unknown software can be filled with malicious viruses. When in doubt, do not download software. Or, research the software before downloading it to ensure your computer's health and safety.

Step6

If you have a Microsoft Windows computer, run your Disk Cleanup and Disk Defragmenter every so often to keep your computer running quickly and smoothly. To get to these, go to your Start menu, then choose Accessories, followed by System Tools. The above options will be in that drop down menu.

How to Greatly Increase Your Computer Speed Immediately

2009-01-03T03:33:00.000-08:00

Is your computer slow and unresponsive? Do you find yourself doing other things while you are waiting for your computer to load? I know from personal experience that this can be very frustrating. Today I am going to take you step by step on what you need to do to fix this and your computer performance will improve immediately! I GUARANTEE that your computer will be much faster when you are done with all of the steps I take you through.

Step1
CCleaner!This is a free utility that is a computer (and sanity) lifesaver! I have never had a problem with this program. It has done wonders for my computer. I HIGHLY recommend downloading this utility!

Step2
You can download it directly from Here: http://www.ccleaner.com/download/downloadingOr You can go to the home page and read about it and then download it, Here: http://www.ccleaner.com/

Step3
Download and and install CCleaner

Step4
Create a system restore point. Name it "Before Cleaning with CCleaner"
Create a system restore point. To do this, go to Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > System Restore and select "Create Restore Point".

Step5
Open it (It will place an icon on your desktop). On the left side you will see 4 Buttons. 1. Cleaner, 2. Registry, 3. Tools and 4. Options. We will be using Cleaner and Registry. When you are in Cleaner Mode, You will see 2 Tabs not far to the right (Registry mode does not have these tabs). These 2 Tabs are "Windows" (Cleanup) and "Applications" (Cleanup). While in the "Windows" tab, Click "Run Cleaner" in the bottom Right hand corner.

Step6
Click the "Applications" Tab. Click Run CCleaner.

Step7
Next, go down to the Registry Button on the Left hand side. It is just under the cleaner button. Click "Scan For Issues". This is going to find problems with your registry, an extremely important part of your computer. It is very accurate and has never told me that something was an issue when it really wasn't. It may take a while to scan, and when it is finished, Click "Fix Selected Issues".

Step8
A pop-up will come up and ask "Do you want to backup changes to the registry?". This is GOOD. Click "Yes". Then save the backup wherever you want to.

Step9
One last screen. You are almost done, and your computer is almost done. I'm sure you can already feel the difference, but after this, you will be very happy with the results! Click "Fix All Selected Issues"! Thats It! That wasn't that hard either!

How to secure your Vista PC in 10 easy steps

2009-01-03T03:18:00.000-08:00

Windows Vista may be Microsoft Corp.'s most secure operating system ever, it's far from completely secure. In its fresh-from-the-box configuration, Vista still leaves a chance for your personal data to leak out to the Web through Windows Firewall or for some nefarious bot to tweak your browser settings without your knowledge.

But by making a few judicious changes using the security tools within Windows Vista -- and in some cases by adding a few pieces of free software -- you can lock down your operating system like a pro.

1. Use Windows Security Center as a starting point
For a quick overview of your security settings, the Windows Security Center is where you'll find the status of your system firewall, auto update, malware protection and other security settings. Click Start, Control Panel, Security Center, or you can simply click the shield icon in the task tray. If you see any red or yellow, you are not fully protected.
For example, if you have not yet installed an antivirus product on your machine, or if your current antivirus product is out of date, the malware section of the Security Center should be yellow. Windows does not offer a built-in antivirus utility, so you'll want to install your own. For free antivirus, I recommend AVG Anti-Virus 8.

2. Use Windows Defender as a diagnostic tool
The malware section of Windows Vista also protects against spyware using Windows Defender. The antispyware protection in your antivirus program usually trumps the protection Microsoft provides, but there are several good reasons to keep Windows Defender enabled. One is that every antispyware program uses a different definition of what is and is not spyware, so redundant protection can actually offer some benefit.
Another reason to keep Windows Defender enabled: diagnostics. Click Tools, and choose Software Explorer from the resulting pane. You can display lists of applications from several categories such as Currently Running Programs, Network Connected Programs and Winsock Service Providers, but Start-up Programs is perhaps the most useful. Click on any name in the left window, and full details will appear in the right pane. By highlighting, you can remove, disable or enable any of the programs listed.

3. Disable the start-up menu
Windows Vista keeps track of all the documents and programs you launch in the start-up menu. This can be convenient for some users, but it can also compromise your privacy if you share a computer within an office or household. Fortunately, Windows Vista provides an easy way to tweak this setting. To protect your privacy, follow these steps:
Right-click on the task bar and select "Properties."
Click on the Start Menu tab.
Uncheck "Store and display a list of recently opened files."
Uncheck "Store and display a list of recently opened programs."
Click "OK."

4. Get two-way firewall protection
No desktop should be without a personal firewall, but even if the Security Center says you're protected, you may not be. The Windows Firewall within Vista blocks all incoming traffic that might be malicious or suspicious -- and that's good. But outbound protection is not enabled by default. That's a dangerous situation if some new malicious software finds its way onto your PC.
Microsoft did include the tools for Windows Vista to have a true two-way firewall, but finding the setting is a little complicated. (Hint: Don't go looking the Windows Firewall settings dialog box.)

To get two-way firewall protection in Windows Vista, do the following:
Click on the Start button; in the search space, type "wf.msc" and press Enter.
Click on the Windows Firewall with Advanced Security icon. This management interface displays the inbound and outbound rules.
Click on Windows Firewalls Properties. You should now see a dialog box with several tabs.
For each profile -- Domain, Private and Public -- change the setting to Block, and then click OK.
Even if you do this tweak, I recommend adding a more robust third-party firewall. I suggest either Comodo Firewall Pro or ZoneAlarm, both of which are free and fare very well in independent firewall testing.

5. Lock out unwanted guests
If you share your computer with others -- and even if you don't -- Windows Vista includes a neat way to keep unwanted guests from guessing your systems administrator password. When you set up users and declare one user as administrator with full privileges, Windows Vista allows outsiders unlimited guesses at the password you chose. Here's how to limit the guesses.
Click Start, then type "Local Security Policy."
Click Account Lockout Policy.
Choose Account Lockout Threshold.
At the prompt, enter the number of invalid log-ins you'll accept (say, three).
Click OK and close.

6. Now audit your attackers
With the Account Lockout policy in place, you can now enable auditing to see any account attacks. To turn on auditing for failed log-on events, do the following:
Click the Start button, type "secpol.msc," and click the secpol icon.
Click on Local Policies and then Audit Policy.
Right-click on "Audit account log-on events policy," and select Properties.
Check the Failure box, and click OK.
Right-click on "Audit log-on events policy" and select Properties.
Check the Failure box and click OK.
Close the Local Security Policy window.
You can then use the Event Viewer (by running eventvwr.msc) to view the logs under Windows Logs and Security.

7. Secure your Internet Explorer settings
The Windows Security Center will also report whether your Internet Explorer 7 (or IE 8) security settings are at their recommended levels. If the screen shows this section as red, you can adjust the settings within the browser itself.
Within Internet Explorer, click Tools in the menu bar.
From the drop-down menu, click Internet Options.
Choose the Security tab.
Within the Security tab, click Custom Level.
Here you'll see a window with all the security options for the browser. If any are below the recommended level (if, say, some malware reconfigured your browser settings), these options will be highlighted in red.
To change an individual setting, click the appropriate radio button. To reset them all, use the button near the bottom of the tab. You can also change the overall security setting for Internet Explorer from the default Medium-High setting to the recommended High or Medium, if you wish. Click OK to save and close.

8. Use OpenDNS
Domain Name System (DNS) servers act as a phone book. When you type "pcworld.com" in the address bar, for instance, your browser sends that common-name request to your Internet service provider's DNS servers to be converted into a series of numbers, or an IP address.
Lately, DNS servers have come under attack, with criminals seeking to redirect common DNS preferences to servers that they control. One way to stop such abuse is to use OpenDNS.
Go to Start, Control Panel, Network and Internet, and then click Network and Sharing Center. Under the tasks listed on the left, click Manage Network Connections. In the Manage Network Connections window, do the following:
Right-click on the icon representing your network card.
Click Properties.
Click Internet Protocol Version 4.
Click the Properties button.
Select the Use the following DNS server addresses radio button.
Type in a primary address of 208.67.222.222.
Type in a secondary address of 208.67.220.220.
Click OK.

9. Live with User Account Control
One area where some people might want to see the Windows Security Center turn red is User Account Control (UAC), perhaps the most controversial security feature within Windows Vista. Designed to keep rogue remote software from automatically installing (among other things), UAC has a tendency to thwart legitimate software installations by interrupting the process several times with useless messages.
In Windows 7, you'll be able to set UAC to the level you want. Until then, you do have some options. One is to disable UAC. I would caution against that, since UAC is meant to warn you of potential danger.
Instead, install TweakUAC, a free utility that enables you to turn UAC on or off as well as provides an intermediate "quiet" mode that keeps UAC on but suppresses administration-elevation prompts. With TweakUAC in quiet mode, UAC will appear to be off to those running as administrator accounts, while people with standard user accounts will still be prompted.

10. Check your work
Now that you've tweaked Windows Vista, you can keep tabs on your system's security with the System Health Report. This diagnostic tool takes input from the Performance and Reliability Monitor and turns it into an information-packed report that can spotlight potential security problems.
Open Control Panel.
Click System.
In the Tasks list, click Performance (near the bottom).
In the resulting Tasks list, click Advanced tools (near the top).
Click the last item on the resulting list -- "Generate a system health report."
The report will list any missing drivers that might be causing error codes, tell you whether your antivirus protection is installed and declare whether UAC is turned on. You may want to run this report once a month just to make sure everything's still good.