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2009-11-21T04:52:00.000-08:00

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How to use the Alternate Configuration functionality to establish multiple-network connectivity

2009-11-13T20:54:00.000-08:00

If you want to use your laptop on both office and home networks without having to manually reconfigure TCP/IP settings and one of those networks does not have a DHCP server, you may be able to do this by using the XP Alternate Configuration functionality. For example, when you are in the office, the computer uses a DHCP to assign TCP/IP configuration. When you are at home (where you do not have access to a DHCP server), the computer automatically uses the alternative configuration. To do this, go to Control Panel>Network and Internet Connections>Network Connections, right-click the connection that you want to configure and clickProperties. Click Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)>Properties>Alternate Configuration, and assign IP, default gateway and DNS manually.

Set up a wireless network without a router

2009-11-13T12:38:00.000-08:00

Wireless networks are helpful because they let you use your computer and connect to the Internet anywhere in your home or office. However, most wireless networks use a wireless router, which can be expensive. If you have more than one computer, you can set up a wireless network without buying a wireless router and save yourself some money.

In a traditional wireless network, a wireless router acts as a base station, much like the base station for cordless phones. All wireless communications go through the wireless router, allowing nearby computers to connect to the Internet or to each other.

Ad hoc wireless networks work more like walkie-talkies, because the computers communicate directly with each other. By enabling Internet Connection Sharing on one of the computers, you can share Internet access.

Ad hoc networking might seem like a much smarter alternative to using a wireless router, but it does have a couple of disadvantages:

•	If the computer connected to the Internet is shut down, all computers that are part of the ad hoc network lose their Internet access.
•	To connect to the Internet, one computer always needs a wired network connection.

To connect your computers to the Internet using an ad hoc wireless network, follow these high-level steps (described in more detail later in this article):

1.	Enable Internet Connection Sharing on the Internet-connected computer. You can skip this step if you don't need to access the Web.
2.	Set up the ad hoc wireless network on the Internet-connected computer.
3.	Add your other computers to the wireless network.

How to enable Internet Connection Sharing

On networks with wireless routers, the router has the important job of forwarding communications from the computers on your home network to the Internet. On ad hoc networks, you must designate one computer to serve this role. The computer you choose must have a wired connection to the Internet, and it should be left on whenever you want to be able to use your other computers.

How to set up the first computer

To set up an ad hoc wireless network that allows computers to share an Internet connection without a router

1.	If necessary, install a wireless network adapter.
2.	Click Start, and then click Control Panel.
3.	Under Pick a category, click Network and Internet Connections.
4.	Under or pick a Control Panel icon, click Network Connections.
5.	Right-click your wireless network connection, and then click Properties.
6.	In the Wireless Network Connection Properties dialog box, click the Wireless Networks tab.
7.	On the Wireless Networks tab, under Preferred networks, click Add.
8.	In the Wireless network properties dialog box, on the Association tab, type the name of your ad hoc wireless network in Network name (SSID) box (shown in step 10). For example, you could name your wireless network MyHomeNetwork.
9.	Clear the The key is provided for me automatically check box and select the This is a computer-to-computer (ad hoc) network check box.
10.	Create a 13-digit password and type it in both the Network key and Confirm network key boxes. For the best security, include letters, numbers, and punctuation. Then click OK.
11.	Click OK again to save your changes.

How to set up additional computers

If the computer you want to add to your network does not have built-in wireless network support, install a wireless network adapter.

Windows XP automatically detects the new adapter and notifies you that it found a wireless network.

Now connect your computer to your wireless network

Note: These steps apply only if you're using Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2). If you haven't installed SP2, visit Microsoft Update to install it before connecting to the ad hoc network.

Right-click the Wireless Network icon in the lower right corner of your screen, and then click View Available Wireless Networks.

Note: If you run into any problems, consult the documentation that came with your network adapter. Don't be afraid to call the manufacturer's technical support department for help.

The Wireless Network Connection window appears and displays your wireless network listed with the SSID you chose. If you don't see your network, click Refresh Network List in the upper left corner. Click your network, and then click Connect in the lower right corner.

Windows XP prompts you to enter a key. Type your encryption key in both the Network key and Confirm network key boxes, and then click Connect.

Windows XP shows its progress as it connects to your network. After you're connected, you can close the Wireless Network Connection window.

Repeat these three steps on each computer that you want to connect to your ad hoc wireless network.

Now you're ready to browse the Web wirelessly, from any computer you add to your home network.

Set up a wireless network

2009-11-13T12:09:00.000-08:00

Choose your wireless equipment

The first step to setting up a wireless network is to make sure you have the equipment you need. You'll need at least two network components: a wireless router and a wireless network adapter.

If you're buying a new router, look for one with the Windows logo. This ensures that the router will work reliably in Windows XP, and if you decide to upgrade, it will work in Windows Vista and Windows 7 as well. Networking in Windows 7 has been simplified and improved. To learn more, see Windows 7 features.

•

Wireless router. Converts the signals coming across your Internet connection into a wireless broadcast, sort of like a cordless phone base station. Be sure you get a wireless router and not a wireless access point. For more information about choosing a wireless router, read Choosing the type of network to install.

•

Wireless network adapter. Connects your computer to your wireless router. If you have a newer portable computer, you might already have wireless capabilities built in. To find out if you have wireless networking built in, and for more information about buying and installing a network adapter, read Install a wireless network adapter. Make sure you have an adapter for every computer on your network.

You can also connect your digital video recorder (DVR) or media extender to your wireless network. If the device has a wired network connection, use a wireless game adapter for a single device or a wireless bridge to connect multiple devices. Wireless game adapters aren't just for games—they'll work with anything that has a wired network port. For information about connecting game consoles to your network, read Connect an Xbox or Xbox 360 to your network.

Connect your wireless router

Before you go any further, print these instructions. You'll be temporarily disconnected from the Internet, so while you're doing the installation, you won't be able to get to this page to refer to the instructions.

Locate your cable modem or DSL modem, and unplug it from its port to turn it off.

•	If you connect your modem to the wall in a similar way that you connect your TV to your cable television outlet, you probably have a cable modem, and it probably has a coaxial cable connected to it (like the round black or white cable you plug into your TV).
•	If you connect your modem through the phone lines, you probably have a DSL modem, and it probably has a phone cable connected to it.

If you currently use a dial-up connection to connect to the Internet, set up your wireless network using ad hoc Internet sharing.

Connect your wireless router to your modem. Your modem should stay connected directly to the Internet. Later, after you've hooked everything up, your computer will wirelessly connect to your router, and the router will send communications through your modem to the Internet.

To connect your router to your modem:

•	If you currently have a computer connected directly to your modem: Unplug the network cable from the back of your computer, and plug it into the port labeled Internet,WAN, or WLAN on the back of your router.
•	If you don't currently have a computer connected to the Internet: Plug one end of a network cable (included with your router) into your modem, and the other end of the network cable into the Internet, WAN, or WLAN port on your wireless router.

Plug in your router. After a minute or two, the Internet, WAN, or WLAN light on your router should light up, indicating that it has successfully connected to your modem.

Configure your wireless router

There are two ways to configure your wireless router: using Windows Connect Now and manually.

•	If your router supports Windows Connect Now, you don't need to continue reading this article. You can configure your wireless router and Windows XP computers quickly and easily by following the instructions in Using Windows Connect Now technology.
•	If you don't have a router that supports Windows Connect Now, you need to manually configure your router:

Using the network cable that came with your wireless router, temporarily connect your computer to one of the wired network ports on your wireless router (any port that isnt labeled Internet, WAN, or WLAN).

Turn your computer on; it will automatically connect to your router.

Open Microsoft Internet Explorer and type in the address to configure your router, as described in your router's instruction manual.

Create a password if a prompt appears. The address and password you use will vary depending on what type of router you have, so refer to the instructions included with your router.

Tip: As a quick reference, this table shows the default addresses, user names, and passwords for some common router manufacturers.

Router	Address	Username	Password
3Com	http://192.168.1.1	admin	Admin
D-Link	http://192.168.0.1	admin	(leave blank)
Linksys	http://192.168.1.1	admin	Admin
Netgear	http://192.168.0.1	admin	password

Internet Explorer will show your router's configuration page. Most of the default settings should be fine, but you should configure three items:

•

Set your wireless network name (known as the SSID) to something unique that does not identify your name or address.

•

Enable Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2) encryption to help prevent uninvited guests from connecting to your wireless network.

Note: We don't recommend using WEP. WPA-2 is more secure. If you try WPA-2 and it doesn’t work, we recommend that you upgrade your network adapter to one that works with WPA-2.

•

Set your administrative password to prevent others from configuring your router.

The exact steps you follow will vary depending on the type of router you have. After each configuration setting (SSID, WEP, and administrative password), be sure you click Save Settings, Apply, or OK to save your changes.

Note: The pictures in this section show Linksys wireless equipment. Equipment from other manufacturers will vary in appearance. For example, to save your settings in Linksys, you click Save Settings. Other equipment may have a different display, and you may have to click Apply or OK.

SSID or naming your network

A service set identifier, or SSID, identifies your network. Choose a unique name that you're confident none of your neighbors will use, but don't specify your name or your address. This is not a security tool, so you don't need to make the SSID complex.

Protecting your wireless network

Help prevent uninvited guests from connecting to your wireless network. To learn how, read Implement WPA2-Personal wireless security on a Windows XP SP2-based computer.

Administrative password

The last configuration change you should make is to the administrative password. Just like any other password, the administrative password should not be a word you can find in the dictionary, and it should be a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. Be sure you can remember this password, because you'll need it if you ever have to change your router's settings.

Tip: Write down your passwords on a piece of paper and store them in your home safe if you have one. If you don't have a home safe, store your passwords with your other important family documents. If you think of your passwords as important documents, you'll always know where to find them.

Now that you have configured your wireless router, named your wireless network, protected it, and assigned an administrative password, you are ready for the last step:

•	Disconnect the network cable from your computer—you'll be able to connect wirelessly from now on.

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Connect your computers and devices

If your computer does not have wireless network support built in, you can install a wired or a wireless network adapter. Windows XP will automatically detect the new adapter and might prompt you to insert the CD that came with it. The on-screen instructions will guide you through the configuration process.

Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) is not required for wireless networking, but it does make setting one up much easier. SP2 also helps protect you against viruses, worms, and other Internet intruders. To install SP2, visit Microsoft Update. The steps below apply only if you're using SP2. Windows XP will show an icon with a notification that says it has found wireless networks.

To connect your computer to your wireless network

1.	Right-click the wireless network icon in the lower right corner of your screen, and then click View Available Wireless Networks. Note: If you run into problems, consult the documentation that came with your network adapter. Don't hesitate to call the manufacturer's technical support number for help.
2.	The Wireless Network Connection window appears and displays your wireless network listed with the SSID you chose. If you don't see your network, click Refresh network list in the upper left corner. Click your network, and then click Connect in the lower right corner.
3.	Windows XP prompts you to enter a key. Type the encryption key that you wrote down earlier in both the Network key and Confirm network key boxes, and then clickConnect.
4.	Windows XP will show its progress as it connects to your network. If the Wireless Network Connection window continues to show Acquiring Network Address, you may have mistyped the encryption key—click Cancel and return to step 3.

After you're connected, you can close the Wireless Network Connection window. Now you're ready to browse the Web wirelessly. You can also create a wireless network in your home that connects your computers, printers, cameras, games, and other accessories for easy access and enjoyment.

Windows XP Task Manager

2009-11-12T21:58:00.000-08:00

The Windows XP Task Manager is a very handy system utility that lists the applications and processes that are running. It shows system resource usage, various performance statistics and network information. With it, you can close hung programs and manage CPU and memory hogs.
Those who have previously used Windows 98/Me are probably familiar with the "3-finger salute". This is the keyboard combination Ctrl+Alt+Delete that was used to bring up the "Close Program" dialog box. As the name implies, its only function was to close programs that got hung up, or sometimes to close Windows itself when a program crash locked up the system. In Windows XP, a much more versatile utility called the Task Manager is available.

Opening Windows XP Task Manager

Task Manager can be opened with the old "3-finger salute" on XP systems that are not joined to a domain and that use the Welcome Screen for logging on. Otherwise, Ctrl+Alt+Delete opens the Windows Security dialog box, which contains a Task Manager button. A different shortcut, Ctrl+Shift+Esc can be used in all cases. Task Manager can also be opened by going to Start-Run and type taskmgr . Yet another route is to right-click on an empty spot in the Taskbar and then choose "Task Manager" from the context menu.

How to create a shortcut to Task manager

Note that Task manager is not normally available from the programs list in the Start menu although you can create a shortcut there if you wish. One way to create a shortcut is to use Windows Explorer to find the file
\Windows\system32\taskmgr.exe
Right-click on the file and choose "Send To- Desktop (Create Shortcut)". (Figure below)

If you like shortcuts on the Desktop, you can leave it there. Otherwise, move it to the folder of your choice in \Documents and Settings\{User Name}\Start Menu. If it is to be available to all users, move it to a folder in \Documents and Settings\All Users\Start Menu\ . Note that Administrator rights are required to use some functions of Program Manager.

Using Task Manager

When Task Manager is first opened the dialog box shown below appears. It has four tabs. (There is also a Users tab if you are using Fast User Switching but I prefer to turn this off.) The default tab "Applications" is a list of the applications that are running in the foreground. These are programs that you can see on the desktop or on the taskbar and that are not running hidden in the background.

All the tab windows have information at the bottom showing the number of processes that are running, how much the CPU is being used, and how much memory resources are committed. The Applications window also has a button "New Task" in the lower right corner that is discussed below

A common use for Task Manager is to end a program that has become frozen or hung. Select an application and click the button "End Task". Another way is to right-click on a program entry, which brings up the context menu shown below. It includes an entry "End Task". There is also an entry "Go to Process" that will take you to the actual process that is running a selected program. A new window will open listing all the processes.

The dialog box for processes will also open when the tab "Processes" is selected as is shown in the next figure. A much larger group appears that includes many background services. Here you can see how much memory and CPU time each process is taking. This information can be enlightening and can help you decide if something is causing your computer to slow down. Processes can be ended either by a right-click menu or the button "End Process" that is in the lower right corner of the dialog box.

CPU and memory usage can vary over a substantial range. The "Performance" tab allows graphs of usage to be seen. An example is shown in the next figure. This can be useful in tracking down resource hogs.

How to Unfreeze a Hung Computer

Task Manager has the very useful capability to open a new program. It is the equivalent of having Start-Run available and is obtained by clicking the button "New Task..." on the Applications tab window that is mentioned above. The resulting interface is shown in the figure below.This feature may seem redundant but it can come in very handy if a crash or badly written program freezes Windows Explorer, thus making the Desktop inoperable. Usually, Task Manager will still be functional and, even with no Desktop, programs can still be opened. In particular, the Desktop can be restored. First go to the "Processes" tab and find the entry for "Explorer.exe". Highlight the entry and click the "End Process" button. It may not respond immediately since there is usually a 20-second wait for hung processes to clean themselves up. Close any other hung processes. (They will show a status "Not responding".) Once Explorer.exe has been unloaded, the Desktop will disappear but, never fear, it is easily restored. Click the "Applications" tab and then the "New Task" button. As shown below, enter "explorer.exe" (no quotes) click "OK". The Desktop will reappear.

Using Safe Mode at startup

2009-11-11T06:11:00.000-08:00

To use Safe Mode with Command Prompt to return the computer to a previous restore point, follow the steps below.
NOTE: Using System Restore in Safe Mode to return the computer to a previous restore point cannot be undone.

1. Press the power button to turn on the computer.
2. At the first screen, press the f8 key repeatedly every half of a second until the Windows Advanced Boot Options screen displays.

3. Press the down arrow key until Safe Mode with Command Prompt is selected, and then press enter . Wait while Windows loads system files. The Windows log on screen appears.
4. At the command prompt, enter rstrui.exe , and then press enter . Wait a few moments for the System Restore window to open.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to perform a system restore.

You have now returned the computer to a previous restore point using Safe Mode with Command Prompt.

CNN Heroes

2009-11-10T10:05:00.001-08:00

Begin The HP Recovery Process

2009-11-10T10:02:00.000-08:00

The first thing you should do is backup any important data, such as pictures, music files, favorites, and anything important that you've saved since purchasing the computer. All new data will be lost and the system will be returned to factory condition.

Next, you'll want to unplug any external devices, such as USB printers, cameras or scanners. These devices could interfere with the recovery process.

There are a couple of ways to reach the recovery screen. The easiest will be to tap the F10 key repeatedly when booting the PC. This will take you to a screen to begin the process. Or, once in Windows, you can go to Start>All Programs>HP Tools>HP PC System Recovery.

Follow the onscreen instructions. The process may take an hour or two depending on the size of the hard drive. Once complete, your HP computer should be reverted to the original factory condition.

Vista Startup Repair: FAQ

2009-11-10T08:42:00.000-08:00

What is Startup Repair?

Startup Repair is a Windows Vista recovery tool that can fix certain problems, such as missing or damaged system files, that might prevent Windows from starting correctly. When you run Startup Repair, it scans your computer for the problem and then tries to fix it so your computer can start correctly.

Startup Repair is located on the System Recovery Options menu, which is on the Windows Vista installation disc. If your computer manufacturer has preinstalled recovery options, Startup Repair might also be installed on your hard disk. If your computer does not include Startup Repair, your computer manufacturer might have customized or replaced the tool. Check the information that came with your computer or go to the manufacturer's website.

How do I use Startup Repair?

If you have a Windows Vista installation disc, you need to restart (boot) your computer using the installation disc. If you do not restart your computer from the disc, the option to repair your computer will not appear.

If you have a Windows Vista installation disc:

1. Insert the installation disc.
2. Restart your computer.
Click the Start button , click the arrow next to the Lock button, and then click Restart.
3. If prompted, press any key to start Windows from the installation disc.

Note:
If your computer is not configured to start from a CD or DVD, check the information that came with your computer. You may need to change your computer's BIOS settings. For more information, see BIOS: frequently asked questions.
4. Choose your language settings, and then click ,Next.
5. Click Repair your computer.
6. Select the operating system you want to repair, and then click Next.
7. On the System Recovery Options menu, click Startup Repair. Startup Repair might prompt you to make choices as it tries to fix the problem, and if necessary, it might restart your computer as it makes repairs.

If Startup Repair is a preinstalled recovery option on your computer:

1. Remove all floppy disks, CDs, and DVDs from your computer, and then restart your computer.
Click the Start button , click the arrow next to the Lock button, and then click Restart.
2. Do one of the following:
* If your computer has a single operating system installed, press and hold
the F8 key as your computer restarts. You need to press F8 before the Windows
logo appears. If the Windows logo appears, you will need to try again by
waiting until the Windows logon prompt appears, and then shutting down and
restarting your computer.
* If your computer has more than one operating system, use the arrow keys
to highlight the operating system you want to repair, and then press & hold F8.
3. On the Advanced Boot Options screen, use the arrow keys to highlight Repair your computer, and then press ENTER. (If Repair your computer is not listed as an option, then your computer does not include Startup Repair as a preinstalled recovery option.)
4. Select a keyboard layout, and then click Next.
5. Select a user name and enter the password, and then click OK.
6. On the System Recovery Options menu, click Startup Repair. Startup Repair might prompt you to make choices as it tries to fix the problem and, if necessary, it might restart your computer as it makes repairs.

Are there problems that Startup Repair cannot fix?
Start up Repair cannot fix hardware failures, such as a failing hard disk or incompatible memory, nor does it protect against virus attacks. Startup Repair is not a backup tool, so it cannot help you recover personal files, such as photos or documents. To help protect your computer, back up your system and files regularly. For more information, search for "backup" in Windows Help and Support.

Start up Repair is not designed to fix Windows installation problems. For more information, see Troubleshoot Windows installation problems.

What if Startup Repair can't fix my problem?
If repairs are not successful, you'll see a summary of the problem and links to contact information for support. Your computer manufacturer might include additional assistance information.

Fix for Error “Windows Resource Protection Could Not Start the Repair Service” When Running SFC in Vista

2009-11-09T09:37:00.000-08:00

When you run the System File Checker using the /Scannow parameter from an elevated Command Prompt, the following error may occur. Additionally, you may experience problems running Windows Installer Setup files and installing fixes from Windows Update.

Windows Resource Protection could not start the repair service

This happens if the TrustedInstaller (Windows Modules Installer) service is disabled. Use these steps to reset the service startup type.

1. Click Start, type Services.msc

2. Double-click Windows Modules Installer

3. Set its Startup type to Manual

4. Click OK.

The TrustedInstaller service has full access to Windows Resource Protection (WRP) files and registry keys, and this services needs to be running in order to restore missing or corrupted WRP resources. The TrustedInstaller service starts on-demand when running the System File Checker.

Can't open Control Panel in Vista/XP

2009-11-09T07:07:00.000-08:00

I can't open Control Panel, it would open in a flash then gone. I can't change the printer settings.

Solution:

Click Start then at Start search or Run type services.msc. Then look for Software Licensing service, double click then click stop then start button.

IP Address 169.254.0.0

2009-11-07T05:10:00.000-08:00

You have probably picked up that IP address because a computer on your network cannot access the DHCP server and Windows has allocated this number.

The Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) has reserved 169.254.0.0-169.254.255.255 for Automatic Private IP Addressing. As a result, APIPA provides an address that is guaranteed not to conflict with routable addresses.

Server Recovery Tips

2009-11-07T00:33:00.000-08:00

Data disasters will happen. Accepting that reality is the first step in preparing a comprehensive disaster plan. Time is always against an IT team when a disaster strikes, therefore the details of a disaster plan are critical for success.

Here are some suggestions from Ontrack Data Recovery engineers of what not to do when data disasters occur:

1. In a disaster recovery, never restore data to the server that has lost the data - always restore to a separate server or location.
2. In Microsoft Exchange or SQL failures, never try to repair the original Information Store or database files - work on a copy.
3. In a deleted data situation, turn off the machine immediately. Do not shut down Windows - this will prevent the risk of overwritten data.
4. Use a volume defragmenter regularly.
5. If a drive fails on RAID systems, never replace the failed drive with a drive that was part of a previous RAID system - always zero out the replacement drive before using.
6. If a drive is making unusual mechanical noises, turn it off immediately and get assistance.
7. Have a valid backup before making hardware or software changes.
8. Label the drives with their position in a RAID array.
9. Do not run volume repair utilities on suspected bad drives.
10. Do not run defragmenter utilities on suspected bad drives.
11. In a power loss situation with a RAID array, if the file system looks suspicious, or is unmountable, or the data is inaccessible after power is restored, do not run volume repair utilities.

Outlook Inbox Repair Tool

2009-11-07T00:22:00.000-08:00

The Inbox Repair Tool can be started with scanpst.exe. The location of this file is different for almost every version of Outlook and it sometimes also depends on which language of Outlook you have installed and even if you have it installed on a 32-bit version of Windows or 64-bit version of Windows.

You can use OutlookTools (free) to locate it for you. Below you’ll find an overview of the default locations of scanpst.exe throughout the versions of Outlook.

Outlook 2007
32-bit Windows; C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office12
64-bit Windows; C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\Office12

Outlook 2003
32-bit Windows; C:\Program Files\Common Files\System\MSMAPI\\scanpst.exe
64-bit Windows; C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\System\MSMAPI\\scanpst.exe

Outlook 2002/XP
C:\Program Files\Common Files\System\MAPI\\scanpst.exe

Outlook 2000
C:\Program Files\Common Files\System\MAPI\\NT\scanpst.exe

Outlook 97 / Outlook 98
C:\Program Files\Common Files\Windows Messaging\scanpst.exe

Note 1: The is a number to identify your language of Office. You can find an overview of the numbers here. You need to look in the "LCID Dec" column for the correct number.

Note 2: When you connect to an Exchange server and need to check your local cache (ost-file) for errors you’ll need to run scanost.exe. You can find this in the same location as scanpst.exe except for Outlook 97/98/2000. These versions of Outlook don’t have the scanost.exe feature.

Archive and restore items in Outlook 2003 / 2007

2009-11-06T23:47:00.000-08:00

Archiving Folder
In Outlook, archiving is a way to back up or delete old items, such as e-mail messages, appointments, contacts, tasks, journal entries, notes, posted items, and documents. AutoArchive backs up items for you automatically by using either the default settings or settings that you specify. However, sometimes you might not want to worry about all of those settings and just archive an individual folder manually.

Manually archive a folder

On the Go menu, click Folder List.
Click the folder that you want to archive. In this procedure, the folder being archived is Home Networking.
On the File menu, click Archive.
Click one of the following options:
Archive all folders to their AutoArchive settings Allows you to use your AutoArchive settings to archive the Home Networking folder.

Archive this folder and all the subfolders Allows you to archive the Home Networking folder using the options available in the Archive dialog box.

In the Archive items older than list, choose a date from the date picker. In this example, items in the folder created before January 19, 2004 are archived.
To include items that you previously selected not to archive, select the Include items with "Do not AutoArchive" checked check box.
NOTE To see if items have the Do not AutoArchive this item check box selected, open the item. On the File menu, click Properties. On the General tab, verify that the Do not AutoArchive this item check box is selected.

To archive the folder to a file other than the default Archive.pst file, click Browse, and then specify a different file name, such as Home Networking Archive.pst, and a location, such as My Documents.
NOTE The default location for Archive.pst is C:\Documents and Settings\user name\Local Settings\Application Data\Microsoft\Outlook\. A Personal Folders file (.pst) is an Outlook data file that stores items such as e-mail messages, contacts, calendar data, tasks, and notes.

Click OK.
The items in the folder are moved out of the folder and into the .pst file that you specified. To view the folder items again, open the .pst file.

Restoring archived items

Method 1) Copy all archived items from a .pst file back into their original folders
1. On the File menu, click Import and Export.
2. Click Import from another program or file. Click Next.
3. Click Personal Folder File (.pst). Click Next.
4. In the File to import box, change the default file name in the path from backup.pst to the name of the archive file you're importing from. Click Next.
5. Click the folder to import from. If you want, click Include subfolders.
6. Specify how you want Outlook to handle duplicate items.
7. Click Import items into the same folder in, and then click the folders with the same name as the folders you're importing from.
8. Click Finish.

Method 2) Copy all archived items from a .pst file into a new folder
1. In Outlook, create a new folder to copy the archived items to.
2. On the Go menu, click Folder List, and then in the Folder List, click the new folder.
3. On the File menu, click Import and Export.
4. Click Import from another program or file. Click Next.
5. Click Personal Folder File (.pst). Click Next.
6. In the File to import box, change the default file name in the path from backup.pst to the name of the archive file you're importing from. Click Next.
7. Click the folder to import from. If you want, click Include subfolders.
8. Specify how you want Outlook to handle duplicate items.
9. Click Import items into the current folder.
10.Click Finish.

Backup and Restore important files and data in Vista

2009-11-05T21:27:00.000-08:00

To Backup:
1. Click Start > Control Panel > System and Maintenance > Backup and Restore
2. Under Backup files or your entire computer, click Backup files
3. On the Where you want to save your backup? page, choose the location in which
to save the backup.
If you select a hard disk, be sure to save the backup to an external drive such as a
USB key or USB hard drive.
4. Click Next
5. On the Which file types do you want to backup? page, click to select the
check boxes next to the types of files that you want to back up, and then click Next
6. On the How often do you want to create a backup? page, leave the defaults as they are and click Save Settings and Start backup to back up the files to the specified location.
Backup will save the files in the background and may take several minutes to complete. If you specified a removable drive, Backup may prompt you to enter an additional blank disc if more than one is necessary to hold all your files. Be sure to label your discs thoroughly (such as "My Files Disc 1" etc.) so you can quickly restore them later.

To Restore:
1. Click Start > Control Panel > System and Maintenance > Backup and Restore
2. Under Restore files or your entire computer, click Advanced Restore.
3. On the What do you want to restore? page, click Files from a backup made on a different computer and click Next
4. Locate the backup you created earlier by browsing to it now. If you saved the backup to CD(s) or DVD, insert that disc now. Once the backup is located and selected, then click Next
5. On the Select the files and folders to restore page, click the check box Restore everything in this backup then click Next
Backup will restore the files to your computer. If you are restoring from a removable drive and used more than one blank disc, Backup will prompt you to enter the next disc in the set as necessary. Depending on the number of files and their sizes, this process may take several minutes.

Print Spooler Problem

2009-11-05T08:42:00.000-08:00

1.Click on Start-->Run

2. Type there cmd and press Enter

3. Type net stop spooler and press Enter

3. Now type net start spooler and press Enter

4. Type exit and press Enter

learn more

Deploying Symantec Endpoint Protection 12 to client

2009-11-04T07:52:00.000-08:00

I got the problem on deploying Symantec Endpoint Protection 12 to clients. I've tried using push installation to clients and create stand alone installer (setup.exe) but some clients can't proceed the installation process although the deployment status is ok. I even called the Symantec Support Center to ask for help. They tried to fix it through remote desktop and instructing me to remove entries from registry, view log file, and eventually using cleanwipe.exe tool from Symantec. I tried to reinstall again but still unsuccessful. :(

Windows XP and Vista Product Key Recovery

2009-11-03T10:49:00.000-08:00

Run regedit. Under HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE > Software > Microsoft > Windows NT > Current Version.

In the right window, double-click on DigitalProductID. This is the entry that contains the encoded product key.

We want the information in bytes 52 to 66. You can use the chart below for reference. We need the 15 sets of numbers where the 1’s are located.

0000 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 ..
0008 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 ..
0010 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 ..
0018 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 ..
0020 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 ..
0028 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 ..
0030 00 00 00 00 11 11 11 11 ..
0038 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 ..
0040 11 11 11 00 00 00 00 00 ..
0048 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 ..
0050 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 ..

Now that you have the 15 byte encrypted code, you can type it into my decrypter tool without spaces:

Web-based version
Windows XP/Vista Key Decrypter Tool

Download stand-alone version (exe)
Windows XP/Vista Key Decrypter Tool

Just click ‘Decrypt Code‘ and you will have your 25 digit Windows XP/Vista product key!

How can I disable the User Account Control (UAC) feature on my Windows Vista computer?

2009-11-02T09:09:00.000-08:00

Windows Vista has the built-in ability to automatically reduce the potential of security breaches in the system. It does that by automatically enabling a feature called User Account Control (or UAC for short). The UAC forces users that are part of the local administrators group to run like they were regular users with no administrative privileges.

Method #1 - Using MSCONFIG

Launch MSCONFIG by from the Run menu.
Click on the Tools tab. Scroll down till you find "Disable UAC" . Click on that line.
Press the Launch button.
A CMD window will open. When the command is done, you can close the window.
Close MSCONFIG. You need to reboot the computer for changes to apply.

You can re-enable UAC by selecting the "Enable UAC" line and then clicking on the Launch button.

*Recommended: Speed up Vista boot times by reducing the number of programs that load at startup. Control your Vista startup list with this Vista app

Method #2 - Using Regedit

Open Registry Editor.

In Registry Editor, navigate to the following registry key:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System

Locate the following value (DWORD): EnableLUA and give it a value of 0.

Note: As always, before making changes to your registry you should always make sure you have a valid backup. In cases where you're supposed to delete or modify keys or values from the registry it is possible to first export that key or value(s) to a .REG file before performing the changes.

Close Registry Editor. You need to reboot the computer for changes to apply.

In order to re-enable UAC just change the above value to 1.

Method #3 - Using Group Policy

This can be done via Local Group Policy or via Active Directory-based GPO, which is much more suited for large networks where one would like to disable UAC for many computers at once.

If using Local Group Policy you'll need to open the Group Policy Editor (Start > Run > gpedit.msc) from your Vista computer.

If using in AD-based GPO, open Group Policy Management Console (Start > Run > gpmc.msc) from a Vista computer that is a member of the domain. In the GPMC window, browse to the required GPO that is linked to the OU or domain where the Vista computers are located, then edit it.

In the Group Policy Editor window, browse to Computer Configuration > Windows Settings > Security Settings > Local Policies > Security Options.
In the right pane scroll to find the User Access Control policies (they're down at the bottom of the window). You need to configure the following policies:
You'll need to reboot your computers.

Method #4 - Using Control Panel

Open Control Panel.
Under User Account and Family settings click on the "Add or remove user account".
Click on one of the user accounts, for example you can use the Guest account.
Under the user account click on the "Go to the main User Account page" link.
Under "Make changes to your user account" click on the "Change security settings" link.
In the "Turn on User Account Control (UAC) to make your computer more secure" click to unselect the "Use User Account Control (UAC) to help protect your computer". Click on the Ok button.
You will be prompted to reboot your computer. Do so when ready.

In order to re-enable UAC just select the above checkbox and reboot.

QA-(Tesda)

2009-11-02T08:49:00.000-08:00

1. Why is it Windows 98 OS can't open Windows 2000 installed partition?
Ans: Windows 98 is using FAT32 file system while Windows 2000 is using NTFS. One word to describe is "incompatible". But vice versa, Windows 2000 or higher can use FAT32 file system.
Read this: FAT32 vs. NTFS

2. msav is the command of Microsoft Anti-Virus.(obsolete)

3. Safe mode is a diagnostic mode of a computer operating system (OS). It can also refer to a mode of operation by application software. Safe mode is intended to fix most, if not all problems within an operating system.

To run safe mode from computer start up process press F8 to view advanced menu then select Safe mode.
Safe mode commonly used:
a)when computer can't load OS, type at run cmd then type "chkdsk /f" to check and fix disk errors.
b)when device driver causes hang-up and you need to uninstall the driver.

4. How to create start-up disk(diskette) in Windows 98 environment? (obsolete)
How to create a boot disk

4-a) Create A XP Boot Disk from System Files

5. What is HP Laserjet printer error code 50?
- Fuser roller malfunction.
How laser printer works? read this

6. Interprets the IBM machines start up error code 201, error code 108 and error code 240?
Answer: IBM error codes

7. Booting files for DOS(FAT) and Win9x(FAT/FAT32) are:IO.sys, msdos.sys, command.com (research on it's functions)
Start up files for WinNT, Win2k, WinXP, Win 2003, and higher are: config.sys, ntldr.exe, boot.ini, etc.
The BOOT.INI File of
Microsoft® Windows™ NT/2000/XP/2003 read more
How to edit the Boot.ini file in Windows XP
BootDisks - PC Support - Essential Utilities

8. How to fix noisy power supply?
- Clean the fan, if still noisy replace the fan.

9.What IP address?

10.Microsoft DOS ipconfig command. Try to differentiate the ipconfig and ipconfig /all command.

11. Ex. If the sound card and LAN card are not working properly or not working at all. The tendency is IRQ conflict.What is IRQ?
IRQ assignments and resolve IRQ conflicts

12. What are the causes of random reboot or phantom reboot?
- It's either virus infected, RAM problem, device driver problem or power supply power shortage.

13. What is Blue Screen of Death?

14. Mising command.com error message
NTLDR is Missing.

15.What is TCP/IP? TCP/IP Tutorials

16. What is ElectroStatic Discharge(ESD)

17. How to check if computer1 is connected to the server or other devices?
Ans. Ping the IP address of the server or other devices.
Ex. C:\>ping 172.16.0.3