Bypass The Security

Testing

2023-08-18T04:19:00.004-07:00

MY INSIDE EDGE MEMBERSHIP

Cache

2015-01-09T23:24:00.000-08:00

What is Caching and How Does it Work?
Caching makes your computer faster

If you have purchased a computer recently, you may have heard the word "cache." It is usually mentioned as part of the specifications. Caching is a technology used with the memory subsystem of your computer. The main purpose of a cache is to accelerate your computer while keeping the price of the computer low. Caching allows you to do your computer tasks more rapidly.

The Basic Concepts

To understand the basic idea behind a cache system, let's start with a super-simple example that uses a librarian to demonstrate caching concepts. Imagine a librarian behind his desk. He is there to give you the books you ask for. For the sake of simplicity, let's say you can't get the books yourself -- you have to ask the librarian for any book you want to read, and he gets it for you from the stacks in a storeroom (the library of congress in Washington, D.C., is set up this way). First, let's start with a librarian without cache.

The first customer arrives. He asks for the book Moby Dick. The librarian goes into the storeroom, gets the book, returns to the counter and gives the book to the customer. Later, the client comes back to return the book. The librarian takes the book and returns it to the storeroom. He then returns to his counter waiting for another customer. Let's say the next customer asks for Moby Dick (you saw it coming...). The librarian then has to return to the storeroom to get the book he recently handled and give it to the client. Under this model, the librarian has to make a complete round trip to fetch every book -- even very popular ones that are requested frequently. Is there a way to improve the performance of the librarian?
Yes, there's a way -- we can put a cache on the librarian.

Let's give the librarian a backpack into which he will be able to store 10 books (in computer terms, the librarian now has a 10-book cache). In this backpack, he will put the books the clients return to him, up to a maximum of 10. Let's use the prior example, but now with our

new-and-improved caching librarian.

The day starts. The backpack of the librarian is empty. Our first client arrives and asks for Moby Dick. No magic here -- the librarian has to go to the storeroom to get the book. He gives it to the client. Later, the client returns and gives the book back to the librarian. Instead of returning to the storeroom to return the book, the librarian puts the book in his backpack and stands there (he checks first to see if the bag is full -- more on that later). Another client arrives and asks for Moby Dick. Before going to the storeroom, the librarian checks to see if this title is in his backpack. He finds it! All he has to do is take the book from the backpack and give it to the client. There's no journey into the storeroom, so the client is served more efficiently.

What if the client asked for a title not in the cache (the backpack)? In this case, the librarian is less efficient with a cache than without one, because the librarian takes the time to look for the book in his backpack first. One of the challenges of cache design is to minimize the impact of cache searches, and modern hardware has reduced this time delay to practically zero. Even in our simple librarian example, the latency time (the waiting time) of searching the cache is so small compared to the time to walk back to the storeroom that it is irrelevant. The cache is small (10 books), and the time it takes to notice a miss is only a tiny fraction of the time that a journey to the storeroom takes.
From this example you can see several important facts about caching:

- Cache technology is the use of a faster but smaller memory type to accelerate a slower but larger memory type. It also helps when data is transferred from a relatively slow data channel, like the Internet.
- When using a cache, you must check the cache to see if an item is in there. If it is there, it's called a cache hit. If not, it is called a cache miss and the computer must wait for a round trip from the larger, slower memory area.
- A cache has some maximum size that is much smaller than the larger storage area.
- It is possible to have multiple layers of cache. With our librarian example, the smaller but faster memory type is the backpack, and the storeroom represents the larger and slower memory type. This is a one-level cache. There might be another layer of cache consisting of a shelf that can hold 100 books behind the counter. The librarian can check the backpack, then the shelf and then the storeroom. This would be a two-level cache.

Internet Caching

Caching can also improve performance when you retrieve information from the Internet. Your Internet connection is the slowest link in your computer. So your browser (Internet Explorer, Netscape, Opera, etc.) uses the hard disk to store HTML pages, putting them into a special folder on your disk. The first time you ask for an HTML page, your browser renders it and a copy of it is also stored on your disk. The next time you request access to this page, your browser checks if the date of the file on the Internet is newer than the one cached. If the date is the same, your browser uses the one on your hard disk instead of downloading it from Internet. In this case, the smaller but faster memory system is your hard disk and the larger and slower one is the Internet.

The browser cache works well with individual computers, but is not efficient when many people access similar web sites. To provide caching for many users on the network, you need to set up a separate computer server that does the job of caching web pages for everyone. This type of special server is called a web-caching appliance. The Avantis ContentCache™ system is an example of this type of server

The ContentCache web-caching appliance provides one of the functions of a proxy server. It provides a store-and-forward cache. When you configure your web browser to use the caching appliance, it never connects to the URL. Instead, it always connects to this special proxy server, and asks it to get the URL (web page) for you.

How the web-caching appliance works

The web-caching appliance receives a request for an Internet service (such as a Web page request) from a user. The server looks in its local cache of previously downloaded Web pages. If it finds the page, it returns it to the user without needing to forward the request to the Internet. If the page is not in the cache, the web-caching server, acting as a client on behalf of the user, uses one of its own IP addresses to request the page from the server out on the Internet. When the page is returned, server relates it to the original request and forwards it on to the user. It also adds this new page to its cache. If the cache is full the web-caching server uses special rules to decide what other page to remove from the cache. Just like the librarians backpack cache, if the bag becomes full they have to remove one of the books. For example they may remove the book that has been requested the least.

To the user, the web-caching server is invisible; all Internet requests and returned responses appear to be directly with the addressed Internet server. (The web-caching server is not quite invisible; its IP address has to be specified as a configuration option to the browser or other protocol program.)

Even organizations that already have very fast internet connections, can benefit from web caching because it effectively removes upstream contention and all the interaction delays associated with traversing the internet (typically 10-20 hops between the user’s web browser and the origin server). Therefore, it will take longer for web content to travel through the Internet than the near instantaneous LAN delivery when caching is deployed.

Caching systems must ensure that users always receive identical content to what would have been delivered had the request been forwarded to the originating server via the Internet. Web servers deliver a ‘caching directive’ with their web pages that determine how long content is to be cached. For example, the directive may instruct the web caching appliance not to cache the content or for the content to time-out after a period of time. A professional web caching solution, such as the Avantis ContentCache™ will follow the originating server’s caching directive when setting all attributes of cached content to ensure that content is always ‘fresh’ and identical to the originating server. If required, ContentCache™ can also be configured to determine how often the content should be re-loaded e.g. on a daily, weekly or monthly basis.

How is it different from a Proxy Server?

The Web-caching server provides some of the functions of a proxy server, but is not as difficult to set up and use. Microsoft provides Proxy Server software which runs on a server. It usually requires a very experienced network technician to get this working correctly. The web-caching appliance, as it name implies, is as easy to use as an appliance. It is a plug and play device that includes the hardware and software necessary to perform the Proxy Server function.

Benefits

In a typical organization up to 90% of internet traffic is generated by users requesting the same web content more than once – making caching particularly advantageous. However, ContentCache™ offers much more than just dynamic caching – allowing high bandwidth content and e-learning resources to be hosted and delivered from the local cache on the network. This provides a better data gathering experience for all organizations, regardless of their Internet connection speed, and frees up the connection for other bandwidth intensive activities such as video conferencing.

Just as the librarian’s performance can be improved by adding a backpack cache, the Internet performance can be improved by adding a web-caching appliance to your network.

Hack Online Account by Phishing - Backtrack

2015-01-09T23:22:00.001-08:00

Hack Online Account by Phishing - Backtrack

Hi folks. I got many messages and complaints for not writing any article on hacking Gmail, Facebook or Yahoo. First of all guys let me share that I'm not in the favour of Black Hat Hacking because no matter how smart you're at the end of the day its path will end by packing your ass behind the bars. Many people wants to hack someone's account because of revenge, anger, unknowingly or just for fun but I suggest you to find a better alternative than hacking.
Anyways, here I'm sharing a simple trick to hack anyone's Gmail/Facebook/Yahoo or any similar account by using most powerful and very popular tool these days known as backtrack.
I'll use a site cloner tool included in Social Engineering Toolkit to get the Job done. Now enough chit chat, lets get our hands on some real stuff.

Warning: This is for education purpose only. I'm not responsible for any damage done to anyone :P

Boot your backtrack machine.
Navigate to the following path. Applications > Backtrack >Exploitation Tools > Social Engineering Tools > Social Engineering Toolkit > set

It'll navigate you to the Social-Engineering Toolkit (SET) terminal
Here, Enter your choice as 2 for Website Attack Vectors.

Now, Enter your choice as 3 for Credential Harvester Attack Method

In website attack vectors, Enter the Number as 2 for Site Cloner.

Then it'll ask you to Enter the url to clone. Here, I'm usingwww.facebook.com for demonstration but you can use the url of gmail or yahoo or whatever you want. After writing the URL hit Enter.

When its done with cloning again press Enter. Don't close this terminal because it'll display the password later. Now our site clone is ready all you need to do is to send its link to the victim who's account you want to hack. The IP address of the Backtrack will be treated as the address of the clone site.
So grab the IP address of Backtrack. Open a new terminal and shoot the command ifconfig and get its IP address. It'll look something like inet addr: 192.168.26.128
Since I'm running Backtrack on Virtual Machine so my IP is something like192.168.26.128 yours may can differ.

Note: The IP's of the figure 192.168.xxx.xxx shows its existence in a LAN or WAN. In that case this trick will work in those networks only.

Now, send your IP address directly to the victim or you can spoof it by shrinking the url using many online services like adf.ly or goo.gl or any similar one. Send the generated link to the Victim via chat or Email or by any means.
When the user click on the link, it'll redirect to the facebooks cloned login page.

After entering the email and password when the victim click Login. It'll get redirected to the original facebook login page and our SET terminal will display the results i.e. the email id and password.

Here, email ID: abc@xyz.com and Password: 12345
That's it you have successfully hacked facebook account via Site Cloner on Backtrack.

Note: This trick may not work globally if you're running Backtrack in virtual machine. For that purpose boot it as your main OS, either install it or use anyBootable USB or DVD of backtrack. Phishing usually work only on noobs but if you want to apply it on an expert use it smartly :)

"The quieter you are, the more you are able to hear"

Proxy Server

2015-01-09T23:22:00.000-08:00

What is a Proxy Server and How it Works?

In a computer network, a proxy server is any computer system offering a service that acts as an intermediary between the two communicating parties, the client and the server. In the presence of a proxy server, there is no direct communication between the client and the server. Instead, the client connects to the proxy server and sends requests for resources such as a document, web page or a file that resides on a remote server. The proxy server handles this request by fetching the required resources from the remote server and forwarding the same to the client.

How Proxy Server Works?

An illustration of how a proxy server works is shown below:

As shown in the above example, whenever the client connects to a web proxy server and makes a request for the resources (in this case, “Sample.html”) that reside on a remote server (in this case, xyz.com), the proxy server forwards this request to the target server on behalf of the client, so as to fetch the requested resource and deliver it back to the client. An example of client can be a user operated computer that is connected to the Internet.

Types of Proxy Servers and their Uses:

1. Forward Proxies

A forward proxy is the same one described above where the proxy server forwards the client’s request to the target server to establish a communication between the two. Here the client specifies the resources to be fetched and the target server to connect to, so that the forward proxy server acts accordingly. Except for reverse proxy (discussed in the latter part of this article), all other types of proxy servers described in this article falls under forward proxy.

2. Open Proxy

An open proxy is a type of forwarding proxy that is openly available to any Internet user. Most often, an open proxy is used by Internet users to conceal their IP address so that they remain anonymous during their web activity. The following are some of the web proxies that fall under the category of open proxy:

Anonymous Proxy

An anonymous proxy is a type of open proxy that conceals IP address of Internet users so that the target server cannot identify the origin of the requesting client. However, an anonymous proxy identifies itself as a proxy server but still manages to maintain the anonymity of the users.

Distorting Proxy

This type of proxy server identifies itself as a proxy, but reveals an incorrect IP address of the client to the target server.

High Anonymity Proxy (Elite Proxy)

An elite proxy provides maximum anonymity as it neither identifies itself as a proxy nor reveals the original IP address of the client. In most cases, users have to pay for this type of proxy as it is seldom available freely on the Internet.

3. Reverse Proxy

Unlike a forwarding proxy where the client knows that it is connecting through a proxy, a reverse proxy appears to the client as an ordinary server. However, when the client requests resources from this server, it forwards those requests to the target server (actual server where the resources reside) so as to fetch back the requested resource and forward the same to the client. Here, the client is given an impression that it is connecting to the actual server, but in reality there exists a reverse proxy residing between the client and the actual server.

Reverse proxies are often used to reduce load on the actual server by load balancing, to enhance security and to cache static content, so that they can be served faster to the client. Often big companies like Google which gets a large number of hits maintain a reverse proxy so as to enhance the performance of their servers. It is not a surprise that whenever you are connecting to google.com, you are only connecting to a reverse proxy that forwards your search queries to the actual servers to return the results back to you.

DoS Attack (Ping Flooding)

2014-09-28T07:17:00.000-07:00

DoS Attack (Ping flooding)

Introduction

I got all excited when I learned to ping flood (Denial of Service) someone for the first time. The thought of having the power to slow someone’s network speed down is thrilling. I got D@rkGh0st to come over to my place so we could do the attack together. So he set himself up on one PC while I set my Laptop and my other PC up for a DoS attack. He started playing an online game and I told him I’d be ping flooding him. So I set my commands up and pressed enter. As I turned around to see the results, I could see his ping shoot up to 3500 from a comfortable 200.

The night after I decided to ping flood my actual router. This produced some scary results; I could not connect to any site what so ever, all it took was three simultaneous ping floods from one computer.

Now I know DoS attacks are illegal, so that’s the reason I experimented on my own PCs. Going from having 200 ping to 3500 ping in a game that hardly consumes much bandwidth is quite a significant response considering I only used a Botnet of 2 computers. If you think about it, one could potentially grind a network to a halt with a Botnet of about 20 PCs. It’s scary to think what someone could do with very little knowledge.

Moving along. When someone is armed with knowledge and the knowledge of C++ and Sockets, they become very, very, very dangerous people, they also become very sloppy people. Someone who just learns this information will most likely go out and create a bot and get themselves caught immediately. So I do advise that you (The reader) do not attempt this on any computer that you don’t have permission to DoS attack.

What is a DoS attack?

A DoS (Denial of Service) is an attempt to make a computer’s resources unavailable to its user. A DoS attack comes in many shapes and forms, and it can also have sub motifs. A DoS attack can disable a computer and its networks if carefully planned and executed. It can be mounted from anywhere to anywhere, at anytime, anyhow. There are so many variables one can put on DoS attacks.

Usually an attacker does not use his/her own computer. They would create what’s called a Botnet (A hive of computers) in which he controls (Remotely through use of trojans) and would direct them towards one machine. To explain this efficiently, it’s sort of like taking a magnifying glass (1 computer) and trying to light a wet piece of tinder, it’s not going to burn, but when a whole lot of them (Botnet) are focused on it, it will burn. In this way, the hacker can anonymously control multiple computers to attack one target to bring it down. The attacker would also use Tunneling and IP Spoofing to camouflage his identity.

What is a Ping Flood?

In this tutorial we will be focusing on a type of attack called a Ping flood. Ping flooding is the most primitive form of DoS attacks because anyone can do it extremely easily. When a targeted computer is under a ping flood attack, what happens is the computer’s network becomes backed up, trying to keep up with ping requests. Each time the server receives a ping request it has to compute it then send a reply with the same amount of data, ping flooding is when the attacker floods the server with ping requests and the server has to compute tons of requests every split second, which takes up a lot of resources.

Typical botnet hierarchy of a hacker

Why am I doing this tutorial?

First let me start by explaining something; When ping flooding from your own computer, you’re basically attacking yourself too unless you use IP Spoofing. The reason I’m doing a tutorial on this is because I think people should know how someone could easily attack a system and take its network offline. There is another reason; One computer will not be sufficient enough to bring a system to a halt, so there is no harm in sharing this information.

There is an upside and a downside to knowing how to ping flood. The upside is, you know what it is and how to do it, the downside is that it’s completely useless unless you know how to make a Botnet. Yet you CAN use this to attack a local network I suppose, but just remember to only attack computers you have permission to attack.

Ping flooding 101

In this tutorial I will be teaching you these types of DoS attacks:

1. Targeted local disclosed ping flood (Known IP Addy)

2. Router disclosed ping flood

3. Blind ping flood (Unknown IP Addy)

1. Targeted local disclosed ping flood

A targeted local disclosed attack is when you know the IP Address of the target connected to the network and you attack it directly.

Alright, so you want to ping flood a single computer. First off we need to make sure we are indeed connected to it, start up command prompt (Start->All programs->Accessories->Command Prompt) and type in:

ipconfig

The dos screen will run a few numbers down the screen and will stop. What we are looking for is a local IP address we can attack. Look for an entry called IPv4 Address.

Results for ipconfig, highlighted text is what you need

If you do not get something like this then you are not connected to any network. If you are in fact connected then note this number down because this is the IP Address we will be needing to attack from the other computer. No we are going to directly attack your target (The computer you are on) so go to the other PC and open command prompt and type this in:

ping *ip address here* -t -l 65500

Use the IP address you noted from the other PC and replace the *ip address here* with that IP address. You will see the prompt start Pinging the computer you specified. Now you are actually ping flooding the target. Hurray! Your very first ever DoS attack! Give yourself a pat on the back. As you can see, this was not difficult at all.

Attacking an IP Address

To understand the command properly here’s the argument breakdown: The -t specifies that it keeps pinging the host until it times out (Disconnects or until you stop it). -l specifies the load you want to send, so we are sending 65500 bytes to the host every ping. That’s quite a lot of data to handle, the usual default ping size is 32 bytes.

If you take a look at the PC that’s being attacked, you will notice a rather significant increase in activity and decrease in speed. If you check the task manager, you will see your network activity will have increased.

The effects of a ping flood in action

You must also remember that what ever load you are wanting to put on the target computer, you will also be putting on your computer, so attacking a stronger computer will only end up in a fail. Also another thing to note that if attacking over Wireless, it’s less likely to have a strong effect compared to LAN.

2. Router disclosed ping flood

A router disclosed ping flood has the same fundamentals as a targeted one, except you target routers and not a computer. When you ping flood a router you compromise the network that it’s hosting. If there are about 20 computers connected to one router and the router is DoS attacked, the 20 computers will not be able to communicate with each other or to the router.

It has the same procedure as the targeted flood, except you need to know the internal IP Address for the router. To get the IP Address of your local router, you use the same procedure as a targeted flood. Open Command Prompt and type:

ipconfig

We need the Default Gateway, this is the local IP Address for the router.

Now use the same process you used to flood the targeted computer, use it on the router, like this:

ping 192.168.1.1 -t -l 65500

Replace the IP Address I got with the IP you got. Generally the IP Addy from your router will be 192.168.1.1 as most routers ship with it set as the default internal IP Address. When you hit return, you will see the command screen now pinging the router with 65500 bytes each ping. This is the most basic attack anyone can do to any target, whether it be a router or direct computer attack. When targeting a computer on a network through a switch or router, generally the router/switch will take the brunt of the attack and could cause it to crash, resulting in a hard reset.

3. Blind ping flood

A blind attack of any kind is when the attacker does not know the IP Address of his target, so he uses technique to uncover them through external programs. We will be using Cain and Abel to retrieve an attackable list of IP Addresses. I will be covering how to use Cain and Abel to find IP Addresses connected to your network.

Journey of IP Packet

2014-09-28T07:16:00.001-07:00

The Journey of An IP Packet in a Local Network

THE JOURNEY OF AN IP PACKET IN A LOCAL NETWORK

This is a good time now to discuss what exactly happens in journey of an IP packet, typically we can say
what happens when we PING an IP Address, or in a Network Communication process. In this Post, we
are going to discuss what happens in a Locally in Local Network.

Lets say Bob and Sally, they are sitting in a company, and both of them are connected to the same network, or same broadcast domain.
Lets say Bob’s PC has an IP address 10.0.0.5/8 and Sally has got 10.0.0.10/8. Both of them are in the same network, connected by a Switch, and Bob sitting in his own cabin tried to ping Sally who is her own different cabin, so Bob opened up his command prompt and typed C:\ping 10.0.0.10
Now lets see what happens in this ping process…

1. When Bob pinged, ICMP creates an echo request payload.

2. ICMP hands that payload to IP, which creates a packet. This packet contains Source IP Address,Destination IP address and a protocol field, which tells the receiving host whom it should hand the payload to, in this case ICMP.

3. Once the packet is created, IP determines whether the Destination IP is on a remote network or local network, in this case local network.

4. On a local network, hosts communicate with MAC address, now the packet is created, Bobs PC would check the ARP cache to find if Sallys MAC address is known. If known its good, the packet is handed to Data Link Layer where a frame would be created and the Source MAC address would be the MAC address of Bob and Destination MAC address would be Mac address of Sallys PC.
In this we will assume that Bob dsnt know the MAC address of Sally, so here is what will be done now, Bob would send an ARP request which is a Broadcast. On the Local Network, it says “Hello Everyone, I am looking for the MAC address of Sally, whos IP address is 10.0.0.10 and my MAC address is xc.xc.xc.xc.xc.xc”, Switch hears the broadcast, and sends this broadcast to everyone, in this process, Switch learns that Bob is connected to, lets say fastethernet 0/0 on its interface, and then Switch sends the broadcast out to all active interface, Sally PC gets the broadcast message and says “Hey ,I am Sally, and my IP address 10.0.0.10, here is MAC Address aa.bb.cc.dd.ee.ff” Sally’s replies to the broadcast of Bob through the Switch, in this process Switch again learned that Sally is connected to, lets say fastethernet 0/1 on its interface, and all other devices that were on the networks drops the broadcast, because it was not meant for them. So our Switch, being very smart, learned that Bob is connected to fa0/0 and Sally is connected to f0/1.

5. Bob’s PC learns that MAC address of Sally is aa.bb.cc.dd.ee.ff, and stores this information in its ARP cache.

6. Now that bob has learned sallys MAC address, in next ping, after the packet is created with Source and Destination IP, the packet is handed down to Data Link Layer, and a Frame is created with Source and Destination MAC Address, with an ether-type field(protocol), which is here IP, and at the end an FCS field is added to the frame.

7. The Frame is handed down to the Physical Layer to put on a physical medium, which is a Straight-through cable.

8. The Frame is received by the Switch on its F0/0 port, Switch checks the destination MAC Address(Sally), and checks its CAM Table, it knows on which port Sally is connected from its CAM table which is fa0/1.

9. Switch sends the frame out through fa0/1, Sallys PC recieves the Frame, on receiving the frame it runs a CRC and matches the result with the FCS field on the frame, then it checks the destination MAC address of the frame, which was Sallys MAC address, next the Ether-type field is checked to determine whom to hand the packet at the network layer, in this case IP.

10. Network Layer check the detination IP address, which was Sallys IP address, next the protocol field is checked to determine whom the payload should be handed, in this case ICMP.

11. The Payload is handed to ICMP, which understands that its an echo request. ICMP responds to this immediately discarding the packet and generating a new payload as an echo reply.

12. In this same way, the echo reply is sent to Bob. But while Sally replying to the echo request, Sallys PC changes the Source and Destination IP Address, where Sally is the Source and Bob is the destination.

13. Bob recieves the reply, and the second reply is a success.

14. The same process continues for two more times, with a success.

So this is how a PING works on a local network.

Backtrack Common Commands

2014-09-28T07:16:00.000-07:00

Backtrack 5 Common Commands [Basic]

Backtrack 5 build under Linux machine so the commands is same as the other Linux OS (Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, Linux Mint, etc). If you are using Linux before you won't difficulty using Backtrack 5. But if you are a newbie / beginner on Linux world and want learn about Backtrack here are some Backtrack 5 Basic Command.

The default username/ password of Backtrack is root/toor but if you want to change the password you can run this command and type your new password.

passwd

Now the common commands of installing a program

apt-get install <package>

Downloads <package> and all of its dependencies, and installs them.

apt-get remove [--purge] <package>

Removes <package> and any packages that depend on it.

apt-get update

Updates packages listings from the repo.

apt-get upgrade

Upgrades all currently installed packages.

apt-get dist-upgrade [-u]

Similar to apt-get upgrade, except that dist-upgrade will install or remove packages to satisfy dependencies.

apt-cache search <pattern>

Searches packages and descriptions.

apt-cache show <package>

Shows the full description about the package.

apt-cache showpkg <package>

Shows a lot more detail about package.

man apt

Give more info on these commands. Man command shows the manual page of command

Reconnaissance

2014-05-02T03:27:00.000-07:00

Reconnaissance

Penetration Testing Reconnaissance

We want to begin a pen test by reviewing the target’s website. We may actually use a tool called HTT rack to make a page-by-page copy of the website. HTT rack is a free program that creates an identical, off-line copy of the target website. The copied website will include all the pages, links, pictures, and code from the original website; however, it will reside on your local computer. Using a website copying tool like HTT rack allows us to explore and thoroughly mine the website “off-line” without having to spend additional time traipsing around on the company’s web server.

To install HTTrack open the console and type:

sudo apt-get install httrack

Once it is installed, begin HTTrack by typing httrack in the console:

Next, name your project whatever you want. Select a path where you want to save the off-line copy. I just left it as default (/home/websites). Just hit enter to leave it as such. Then enter the site you want to copy.(Please do not copy my site… Thanks!).

Pick an action you want. If you want to copy the site, press 1 then enter. HTTrack has a few options for you to pick from including a proxy to help cover your tracks. I am just using the basics for demonstration. I recommend you use a proxy when doing a real pen test.

After HTTrack finishes, you will have a complete off-line copy of the target site which you can review for information.

The Harvester

The Harvester is a simple Python script written by Christian Martorella at Edge Security. This tool allows us to quickly catalog both e-mail addresses and subdomains that are directly related to the target system.

The Harvester can be used to search Google, and Bing for e-mails, hosts, and subdomains. It can also search LinkedIn for user names.Often times you will find an email address, which could double as a login or user-name.

To use the Harvester first type in your console:

root@bt:~# cd /pentest/enumeration/theharvester

root@bt:~# ./theHarvester.py -d backtracktutorials.com -l 10 -b google.com

–d is used to specify the target domain.

A lowercase –l (that’s ‘L’ not a ’1′) is used to limit the number of results returned to us. In this case, the tool was instructed to return only 10 results. The –b is used to specify what public repository we want to search. We can choose among Google, Bing, PGP, or LinkedIn.

I scanned my own domain and didn’t find anything… yet!

Medusa

2014-05-02T02:55:00.002-07:00

Exploitation

Medusa

Medusa is a log-in brute forcer that attempts to gain access to remote services by guessing at the user password. Medusa is capable of attacking a large number of remote services including FTP, HTTP, MySQL, Telnet, VNC, Web Form, and more. In order to use Medusa, you need several pieces of information including the target IP address, a username or username list that you are attempting to log in as, a password or dictionary file containing multiple passwords to use when logging in, and the name of the service you are attempting to authenticate with.

Medusa comes installed on Backtrack 5. However, if you are using a different version of backtrack without Medusa type:

apt-get update
apt-get install medusa

When using online password crackers, the potential for success can be greatly
increased if you combine this attack with information gathered from reconnaissance and scanning. An example of this is when you find usernames, passwords, and email addresses. Programs like Medusa will take a username and password list and keep guessing until it uses all the passwords. Be aware that some remote access systems employ a password throttling technique that can limit the number of unsuccessful log-ins you are allowed. Your IP address can be blocked or the username can be locked out if you enter too many incorrect guesses.

Backtrack includes a few word lists that you can use for your brute forcing adventures. You can find one list at:

/pentest/passwords/wordlists/

In order to execute the brute-force attack, you open a terminal and type the following:

medusa –h target_ip –u username –P path_to_password_dictionary –M service_to_attack

“-h” is used to specify the IP address of the target host. The “-u” is used for a single username that Medusa will use to attempt log-ins. “-P” is used to specify an entire list containing multiple passwords. The “-P” needs to be followed by the actual location or path to the dictionary file. The “-M” switch is used to specify which service we want to attack.

Here I launch an attack against my own ssh server.

More to come!

Crack password protected zip files

2013-11-03T22:03:00.000-08:00

Crack the password

protected zip files using

fcrackzip - Backtrack

We frequently use zipped files due to its small size and strong encryption algorithm. These zipped files comes with a facility of password protection which maintains the security of the files.
But sometimes this security feature turns into a drawback if we somehow forget the password. In that case the password cracker play their role. You can also use them if you downloaded a zipped file with password protection on it.
In my last article, if you followed then we learned to make a bootable USB of backtrack. So here I'm gonna introduce a tool which is present in Backtrack and if you have no past experience with Linux then no issues you can start from here. The open source tool we are gonna use is called fcrackzip.
fcrackzip is a fast password cracker partly written in assembler. It is able to crack password protected zip files with brute force or dictionary based attacks, optionally testing with unzip its results.

Here, for the demonstration I'm gonna make a file crackme.zip with a password abcde using winrar. You can also try with me from here.

1) Right click on the file > select add to archieve..

2) Under General tab select ZIP rather than RAR, then under Advanced tab > set Password

3) Suppose our final password protected zip file is crackme.zip (you can use your own)

4) Now copy this file on the desktop for ease in your Backtrack

5) Then click on the Top Right button saying Applications.

6) Navigate to Backtrack > Privilege Escalation > Password Attacks >Offline Attacks > fcrackzip

7) The following terminal screen will pop up

The fcrackzip is loaded with the following options:

-b brute force
-D dictionary Attack
-B benchmark
-c charset characterset
-h help
-V validate
-p init-password string
-l length min-max
-u use-unzip
-m method num
-2 modulo r/m

8) I'm going to apply the brute force attack for password cracking. So the following command will be useful...

fcrackzip -b -c a -l 1-6 /root/Desktop/crackme.zip

here,

-b > bruteforce
-c a > charset lower case alphabets
-l 1-6 > length of expected password

9) Hit Enter and wait for few minutes. fcrackzip combining with Backtrack turns into a more faster password cracking tool

10) That's it. It'll show the password after certain attempts.

Note: Brute force assures gurantee of the result but often take very much time even years for a very strong password to crack. If you use Encrypted language for the password then it may be impossible to apply the brute force. In such case do search for other working alternatives.

"The quieter you become, the more you are able to hear"

Bootable USB for Backtrack

2013-11-03T21:48:00.001-08:00

Make a Bootable USB for Backtrack 5

Here I come up with another article in which I'm gonna show you how to make a bootable USB for Backtrack 5. Before leading to the executing process let me introduce Backtrack 5.
Backtrack is based on Ubuntu Lucid (10.04 LTS) with Linux kernel 2.6.38 and some WiFi drivers to allow injection attacks. It is currently most popular choice among hackers for pen testing. It is filled with a collection of more than 3000 open source security tools, which are organised in a real decent way.
It menu consists of several tools like “Information Gathering”, “Vulnerability Assessment”, “Exploitation Tools”, “Privilege Escalation”, “Maintaining Access”, “Reverse Engineering”, “RFID Tools”, “Stress Testing”, “Forensics”, “Reporting Tools”, “Services”, and “Miscellaneous”.

Alright Lets get start to get hands on such powerful OS:

First grab a copy of the latest version of Backtrack. go to the official site click here

Click on Download tab, either register your copy or directly click on Download button

Then configure the version according to your need and requirement. Click on Download

In order to make bootable USB we are going to use a small freewareUNETBOOTIN. Download it from here
Take a 4GB USB (recommended) backup all its data and make a QuickFormat using FAT32 File System
Now run the application unetbootin

Configure it: In Diskimage, select ISO.
Click browse and select the IMAGE which you just downloaded
In Type select USB Drive, Drive select your USB drive letter
Leave the rest as default.
You are always free to configure it in your way :)
Click OK
Finally the burning process begins. It generally takes 5-10 mins but may take longer depending upon your system configuration.

When its done hit the Reboot button of your system.
Switch to BIOS and select the USB as First boot device.
Viola its done now you can get rid off from Virtual Machine because it slows down the speed in my case. Run the Backtrack directly on your machine.

"The quieter you become, the more you are able to hear"

Add Folder Into Send to Option

2013-11-03T21:32:00.000-08:00

Add Folder Into Send to Option

Hello Friends!!

YES…!!!You can add Folder to Send to option.if you didn’t get it,It may occur when you send the data into USB drive.by right click on folder and click on Send to option where you will be able to see the destination drive.From this trick you can put your required destination folder in that particular field.

Note: This trick is working properly in Windows XP.Windows 7 and 8 users may not found this as useful.

So without wasting much time..Here are the Steps:

Step 1)

Go to my computer.

Step 2)

open C drive (Drive in which you have installed windows OS).

Step 3)

Navigate to Users -> xyz(administrator) .

Step 4)

Be sure that visibility of System hidden files is turned ON.

As go to
tools -> folder options

then check the checkbox Show hidden files and also uncheck “Hide protected operating system files“. click on yes and press OK.

Step 5)

Now Open send to folder.

Step 6)

Now create shortcut of required folder.you may check for how to create shortcut for more guideline.

Done!!

In Windows 7 and 8 operating system this is not working.So it will helpful if somebody want to share if they know anything regarding this.

Thank you

Introduction To Pentesting

2013-11-02T08:12:00.001-07:00

Introduction To Pentesting - BackTrack

Penetration testing is the legal and authorized attempt to exploit a computer system with the intent of making a network or system more secure. The process includes scanning systems looking for weak spots, and launching attacks and prove that the system is vulnerable to attack from a real hacker.
Penetration Testing has several names:

§ Pen Testing

§ Ethical Hacking

§ White Hat Hacking

As you learn more about the art of hacking, you will see three terms used a lot. The white hats, the black hats, and the gray hats. The white hats are the “good guys”. They hack systems and networks so that the black hats (“bad guys”) can not. The black hats, also known as “crackers” are those that use hacking with malicious intent. They’re the ones that want to steal company secrets or your credit card information. For this reason, it is important for the white hats to know the tools and tricks of the black hats to stay a step ahead of them. As for the gray hats, they’re a combination of white and black. They often hack just because they can or like the challenge.

By now you may want to download and install backtrack Linux on your computer. Recommended Reading: The Basics of Hacking and Penetration Testing: Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing Made Easy

A great book for anyone just learning how to hack or just wants to know more about security. Covers a lot of what you’ll find here plus a lot more. I can’t recommend this enough for beginners.

Hacking Lab

Having a place to practice is necessary to learn how to hack. This is were your own home hacking lab comes in. It is a place where you can control your attacks without harming any other systems. We want out lab to be isolated and have no chance of escaping to targets we didn’t mean to attack.

Option 1:

§ Two computers

§ Ethernet Cable

§ A switch

Option 2:

§ Use Virtual Machines
You will need 3 or more virtual machines. One for backtrack, one for a windows machine, and one for another linux box. The linux box will act as out victim server: SSH, Webserver, FTP, etc.

Option 1 is in case you have older hardware that can’t handle running more than one VM. However, these days, modern hardware can handle them. Option 2 is the better choice because you only need one computer.

Steps in Penetration Testing

1. Reconnaissance

2. Scanning

3. Exploitation

4. Maintaining Access

Hope you'll find almost every kind of need here. Check out Penetration Testing steps mentioned above.

YouTube Tricks

2013-11-02T08:01:00.002-07:00

YouTube Tricks, Tips & Secret Features You Might Have Missed

YouTube, the extremely popular video sharing website by Google averaging more than 3 billion page views per day needs no introduction to its fans who spend a considerable amount of time watching and sharing videos. While most of these users know every nook and corner of this website, there are some features that are hidden deep within, in a manner that only few of the most experienced users seem to know about them. This article contains some such features, tips and tricks.

YouTube MySpeed
Are YouTube videos taking too much time to load on your internet connection? Visit the YouTube MySpeed page to find your video streaming speed and compare it with the average speed of your ISP, your city, your state, your country and the world.

YouTube Disco
YouTube is all set to replace your music players with YouTube Disco. This music discovery project allows you to find the videos of your choice, create a list of them and then easily watch them without having the need to choose a new video after the one you are watching is finished.

YouTube Snakes Easter egg
You can play the classic Snakes game while watching any video in your browser. Just pause and resume a video, hold the left arrow key for 2 seconds and while still holding it, press the Up arrow key. This only works in the new YouTube player on videos played on YouTube.com.

YouTube Editor
Do you edit your videos before uploading them to YouTube? Now, you don't need to because it lets you to do all of that online with YouTube Editor; well not all of that but it at least lets you combine, trim and rotate videos. The best part about YouTube Editor is that it allows you to find copyright free music that you can add to your videos. It also offers some comparably advanced features like stabilizing shaky videos and inserting transitions.

YouTube Leanback
YouTube lets you watch the videos of your choice but have you ever wanted to just sit back and enjoy watching videos just like you watch television? YouTube Leanback can help. YouTube Leanback plays high quality full screen videos tailored to your choices (if you are signed in to your Google account). If you are not signed in, you can choose a category to watch videos from, watch featured videos and even search for the video of your choice. You can then connect your TV to your computer to seamlessly enjoy TV, YouTube style.

YouTube Leanback

YouTube XL
While you can enjoy videos on your TV using Leanback, the interface is far from desirable. So, to allow users on smart TVs browse videos more effectively, YouTube has an XL version for large screen sizes. This version does not have comments and other unimportant stuff that you see in the standard version.

Set default video playback quality
Are you annoyed at manually changing the quality of every YouTube video you watch? Now you don't need to, because YouTube has an option that automatically lets you select the quality of videos you see. If you have a slow connection, you can select the option of never playing high quality videos. You can also select the option of showing captions and annotations automatically.

Watch Videos blocked in your country : URL trick
If the URL of the video that is blocked in your country is youtube.com/watch?v={video-id}, you can access it by going to youtube.com/v/{video-id}. As an additional advantage, you will be able to view the video at the full size of your browser window.

Link to a specific time in a video
If you want to link to a video at a specific time, you can add #t=XXs to the URL where XX is a variable which represents the number of seconds after which the video will start.

YouTube Live
YouTube Live lets you find all live broadcasts available. You can also see a list of videos that are scheduled to be broadcasted at a later date.

Watch Live broadcasts on YouTube

Create a feed of almost anything on YouTube
Just go to the YouTube Data API page and build a custom feed for yourself. However, there is a problem with the URI generated for specific categories as "{http://gdata.youtube.com/ schemas/ 2007/ categories.cat}" is also added. Remove this and the URI is good to go.

YouTube Charts
Want to find the best videos on YouTube? Use YouTube Charts to find what other users are watching, discussing and favoring. You can select a particular category to determine the best videos in that particular category. You can even filter videos to determine what has been popular this week, this month or this year. You also have the option to play all the videos obtained in results.

Legally Watch Full Length Movies and TV Shows on YouTube
YouTube has a dedicated page to allow users to watch full-length ad supported movies for free. Movies are classified based on their genre and are offered in full HD quality. Movies are uploaded by the creators for the purpose of creating another source of revenue for themselves as Google gives them a portion of the advertising revenue. A similar page exists for TV shows.

YouTube Feather Beta
Love browsing videos but are on a terribly slow connection? Feather, the new experimental feature to allow users on slow connections enjoy YouTube might help you. It achieves this by serving the lowest amount of data to a user. Naturally, this means removal of several features that don't add much value. Feather is currently available only as an opt-in service which allows you to opt out anytime you want.

Contact Facebook

2013-10-31T20:38:00.001-07:00

How to Contact Facebook?

Hello guys hope you all are fine and happy. I was busy in my MS exams because of which I couldn't write any article for such a long time. Anyways here I am with a new article. Hope it will help you in some way.

Have you ever tried to contact Facebook to report a problem with your account or report a bug? It can be as hard as trying to draw blood from a stone. Here is a list of links that can help make contacting Facebook a little easier. Just note that you are not guaranteed a response from Facebook as their motto is You get what you pay for.

Mobile

Photos

Video

Pages

Groups

Errors

Contacts

Ads

Inbox

News Feeds

Home Page

Wall

Notifications

Disabled Account

Lost Content After Reactivated Account

Chat

Suggestions

Hacked

Scam

Death

Illegal

Minors

Copyright Infringement

(These links are correct at the time of publication)
If you have found another Facebook contact form that I have missed.. please leave a comment below.

Edit Registry Without Booting In Windows

2013-10-31T20:37:00.002-07:00

How To Edit Registry Key Values without Booting in Windows

Many years ago when I was still a novice in computers, I accidentally disabled userinit.exe from startup thinking that it was spyware using the SysInternals tool Autoruns. When I restart my computer, I was unable to login to Windows. Whenever I select the user from the list, it logs in and automatic logs off. I had a really tough time trying to restore userinit.exe back to Windows startup list as it wasn’t easy accessing and editing the registry when Windows is unbootable. Autoruns is much smarter now because when you uncheck userinit.exe from Logon, it will warn you that “disabling or deleting Userinit will prevent users from logging on”.

In the end I managed to fix the problem but I couldn’t exactly remember how I did it because I tried many many ways and I got lucky. Recently I found a real solution on how to edit Windows registry key values without booting into Windows. If you have a similar situation as my previous case which requires you to edit the registry without Windows, then here is how to do it.

Listed here are 3 methods to edit the Windows registry keys using a bootable CD. The first 2 are the easier ways and the last way is a longer and more troublesome process. Although I am showing you how to repair the userinit registry key, these methods can obviously be used for any other keys in the registry that need to be edited.

Method One

This first method uses a great free tool called PC Regedit which lets you create, delete and edit Windows registry key values without Windows.

1. Download PC Regedit (Google it)

2. Burn the downloaded PCRegedit.iso to a disc.

3. Boot up the computer with the PC Regedit disc and it will load up ISOLINUX.

4. When everything is loaded, you will see a MyFileChoose Title window. By default you are at config folder. Scroll down a little, select SOFTWARE and click OK.

5. Navigate to root -> Microsoft -> Windows NT -> CurrentVersion -> Winlogon.

6. Look for the Userinit key and make sure that the value is set as C:\Windows\System32\Userinit.exe, (including the comma). If the Userinit key is not there, you can add a new key by right clicking at the right pane and select Add Key.

You can use this method to load up other registry files and edit them. Here are the explanation of the 5 registry files for HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE.

Registry Location: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE
File: SOFTWARE
Backup: SOFTWARE.LOG

Registry Location: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SECURITY
File: SECURITY
Backup: SECURITY.LOG

Registry Location: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM
File: SYSTEM
Backup: SYSTEM.LOG

Registry Location: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SAM
File: SAM
Backup: SAM.LOG

Registry Location: HKEY_CURRENT_USER
File: NTUSER.DAT
Backup: ntuser.dat.LOG

Registry Location: HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT
File: DEFAULT
Backup: DEFAULT.LOG

On Windows-NT based systems such as Windows NT, 2000, XP, Vista and 7, each user’s settings are stored in their own files called NTUSER.DAT and USRCLASS.DAT inside their own Documents and Settings subfolder (or their own Users subfolder in Windows Vista or 7). For example, C:\Documents and Settings\Raymond\NTUSER.DAT.

Method Two

This method involves using the popular Hiren’s Boot CD and its Mini XP feature to edit the registry.

1. Download the Hiren ISO.

2. Burn the downloaded Hirensbootcd.iso to a disc.

3. Boot up the computer with the Hiren disc and and at the menu select “Mini XP”.

4. When the Mini XP is loaded, click the Hiren menu icon in the tray -> Registry -> Registry Editor PE.

5. When asked to, set the remote Windows directory (usually C:\Windows) and press OK.

6. Click OK on each window to select the related registry hive. If you want to edit a registry value from HKEY_CURRENT_USER you will need to select Yes when asked if you want to load an NTUSER.DAT and locate the file in the user directory.

7. Expand HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE and the hives will automatically load with the _REMOTE_ prefix. Navigate to _REMOTE_SOFTWARE -> Microsoft -> Windows NT -> CurrentVersion -> Winlogon

8. Double-click Userinit and set it’s value correctly such asC:\Windows\System32\Userinit.exe,

Important Note: Make sure you include the comma at the end after Userinit.exe. It is there by default.

9. Close the registry editor and the hives will be unloaded.

Method Three

This will explain the tougher method on how to access registry without booting in to Windows using UBCD4Win. Once you have the CD created, just follow the few simple steps below.

1. Boot up computer with UBCD4Win.

2. Once Ultimate Boot CD 4 Windows is fully loaded, click Start -> Programs -> Registry Tools -> RegEdit

3. Select HKEY_USERS

4. Click File from menu bar and select Load Hive

5. Browse to C:\Windows\System32\Config\ and select SOFTWARE. Make sure that it is C:\ and not X:\

drive, otherwise you’ll be loading the CD’s registry.

6. Enter the Key Name as NEWHIVE.

7. Expand HKEY_USERS and you’ll see a newly created NEWHIVE in the list. Expand the NEWHIVE and locate the following location. HKEY_USERS -> NEWHIVE -> Microsoft -> Windows NT -> CurrentVersion -> Winlogon

8. Double-click Userinit and set it’s value correctly such asC:\Windows\System32\Userinit.exe,

Important Note: Make sure you include the comma at the end after Userinit.exe. It is there by default.

9 . Go back to HKEY_USERS and select NEWHIVE.

10. Click File from menu bar and select Unload Hive. Click Yes when asked if you are sure you want to unload the current key and all of its subkeys.

If you already have UBCD4Win created, the whole process is much faster. However, I understand that not everyone has a Windows XP install disc on hand.

Check Suspicious link

2013-10-14T06:20:00.007-07:00

Check the Suspicious link before Clicking it

Today while surfing net i came to this site and i really find it kool. Now a days hackers usually hack account or inject virus in your system by sending you a long link and you don't know whats behind it and because of suspense you just click that link and got infected.

This website allows you to first check whether the given link is suspicious or not and also the short link behind that long link. so if you have some doubt on any link then first use this site and check your link and when you get sure that its safe then click it .

CLICK HERE to visit the site.

Hope it helped you in some way. Have fun take care.

How do Hackers Hack Your Facebook Password?

2013-10-01T23:16:00.001-07:00

How do Hackers Hack Your Facebook Password?

You might be very happy right now because of the availability of high speed Internet, but when you get to encounter hackers, everything seems to become frustrating. Your personal information gets stolen and social media accounts like Facebook get invaded. Hackers are definitely a huge disturbance. They’re not merely robbers, but killers to the connection as well. They can spread viruses that consume a huge part of your bandwidth. They are among the reasons why even a high speed internet becomes sluggish.
If you are curious about how hackers attack your Facebook or other social media accounts apart from the irritation that you feel about them, consider knowing the various techniques that some of them are presently using. If you’re taking a computer course, you’ll definitely recognize these strategies.

The Keyloggers :-

These are among the most basic methods utilized by hackers in stealing your passwords. The keylogger simply dwells in your system memory and activates every startup. It records all the keys you type and creates a log, which will then be forwarded to the person operating it, the hacker. One of the most popular keyloggers is the Ardamax Keylogger. Hence, it is advised to use online virtual keyboard when it comes to accessing your bank or Paypal accounts on the Internet.

The RAT or RemoteAdministration Tool :-

Through RAT, the hacker can connect to your computer without your permission. He can see everything that is on your screen. He can also just watch all the websites that you have been visiting. The RAT actually has a built-in piece that functions like a keylogger. Therefore, it can as well copy all the files from your computer’s hard disk secretly. Poison Ivy is one example of RAT.

The Trojan Horses :-

There are among the most typical malwares. They are usually acquired from special offerings online. Downloading free software programs, for example, is one common step of getting a Trojan Horse in your system. Trojan Horses are more superior compared to RAT and Keyloggers. They enable plenty of other functions that enhance the hackers’ capability to access your PC. A well-known Trojan Horse if the Turkojan.

The Phishing Method :-

Hackers create websites similar to the Facebook homepage with attached system that tracks down all the usernames and passwords entered. All of the log in details will be stored in a particular server, which hackers have access to. Hackers drive people to their fake websites by sending emails indicating that someone has sent a message or tagged a photo of them on Facebook. Some Facebook Apps also leads users to the Phishing site.

Whatever tool hackers are using, it is highly recommended to enable secure browsing. If you normally have high speed internet, you must have your system checked and cleaned right away once the connection becomes slow suddenly. The blame should not be thrown only to the network carrier. Consider other possibilities like hackers trying to get into your PC or viruses that have already started infecting your system.

Prevent Your Credit Cards From Being Hacked

2013-10-01T08:14:00.003-07:00

Prevent Your Credit Cards From Being Hacked

Hacking issues is probably the biggest problem that can happen online. It is a process where the hacker, a person who hacks into a network, makes use of the weakness associated with a particular system to gather important information. It is the activity where important and sensitive information are compromised. Credit card hacking is quite common and the world has seen a large amount of loss through the credit card hacking.

Credit card and online transactions have become quite common and there are very few people who do not use their credit cards to make online purchases, shopping or that of any money transactions. Though it seems quite convenient and easy it bestows upon us the burden to safe guard the security of the card to a considerable extent. The internet is rife with credit card hackers and we need to be at our best to protect ourselves and our information the best way possible.

Steps to Prevent credit card hacking:

§ Do not furnish credit information unless necessary

§ Do not involve in online banking transaction in internet café

§ Never furnish any credit card information to any sites

§ Do not store the credit card information in the system itself

§ There should not be any loopholes for security

All of these are some of the activities that one should not involve to be safe against hacking. Other than this, one also needs to take care of certain measures, in advance.

Things to do:

§ Create a tight security mechanism for the system

§ Ensure that important information is not stored in the system

§ Keep protection mechanism like anti virus and anti phishing on

§ Create an effective firewall system in the computer

§ Take care of the password set up

§ Uninstall any unwanted software from the system

Use Encrypted Connection:

An encrypted connection will serve as the best protective shield within the users and it is the ideal one for dealing with any financial information. There are many sites that asks for the personal details and credit card information, never give away any of the details. Before installing any software, make sure that it is secure as some of them can act against your interest and serves as the hacking tool for the hackers. It is important that one does not allow room for phishing in their system as it may compromise all the essential data.

Discard the affected system:

If your system was hacked and data was stolen, then make sure that you no longer use the affected system as it may cause further damage. If you still need to use the same system, then change its operating system completely and give it a new lease of life altogether.

Thus, one needs to show a lot of attention in securing the credit card information. Once the damage is done, it is quite hard to recover, so it is better to be cautious from the beginning and avoid such losses. Make sure you follow this simple yet effective protective mechanism for securing credit card information.

Increase Broadband Speed

2013-10-01T07:57:00.003-07:00

Increase Broadband Speed Using Simple Tweak

A Simple Tweak (XP Pro only) which will increase your Broadband Speed.

Make sure you Log on as Administrator, not as a user with Administrator privileges.

Follow the steps as given below-

1) Click on Start Button.

2) Select Run From Start Menu.

3) Type gpedit.msc

4) Expand the [Administrative Templates] branch.

5) Then Expand the [Network] branch.

6) Highlight(Select by Single Click) [QoS Packet Scheduler]

7) Double-click [Limit Reservable Bandwidth] (Available in Right Side Panel)

8) Check(Select By Single Click on it) [Enabled]

9) Change [Bandwidth limit %] to 0 %

10) Click [OK] Button.

11) Restart Your PC.

12) Now Check Your Broadband Speed.

Doxing

2013-09-30T21:53:00.001-07:00

What Is Doxing? - Doxing And It's Uses

First, let me explain what Doxing is. Doxing is the process of gaining information about someone or something by using sources on the Internet and using basic deduction skills. Its name is derived from “Documents” and in short it is the retrieval of “Documents” on a person or company.

You’re probably thinking, “Okay, so basically it’s getting information from searching someone’s email on Google right?” in a sense yes, but there are actually easier ways to get someone’s information online. The most popular and most common method is to use a website called Pipl (http://www.pipl.com/). Pipl allows you to search for full names, emails, usernames, and even phone numbers, thus making it a very useful tool for hackers. Another source hackers can use is Facebook (http://www.facebook.com). Sure, Facebook allows full name searches, but most hackers aren’t using it for its name search; they’re using it for its email search.

The main goal when Doxing is to find the target’s email (if you don’t have it). Your email is essentially your passport online; you sign up for websites using it, you have personal information on it, and if someone has access to it, they can essentially pretend to be you online. Once the hacker has the email, all he has to do is put it into Facebook or Pipl and he will be able to find you, assuming the email he has is connected to some account you have online. On the flipside of this, in order to find your email, the hacker either has to guess your email, befriend you on Facebook,or, hack one of your vulnerable friends and view your email that way. Once he’s done that, you’re in trouble.

Now, you’re probably thinking, “How’s he going to hack me with just my email?” well, that’s where Doxing comes in handy. If he can view your Facebook account, or he can find some other bit of information about you using Pipl, he can do what’s called reverting. Reverting is the process of using the target’s email’s recovery questions to gain access to the target’s email. Now, you may be thinking, “How’s he gonna guess my recovery question answers?” well, take a second look at your recovery questions and ask yourself, “Can someone find this answer online?” If you answered yes, then you’re vulnerable to reverting.
Any hacker reading this, that didn't previously know about reverting, would probably look at this and say “This would never work!” but you have to remember… we’re all humans, and we all make mistakes. Surprisingly, this method works more often than you’d think, but it is not for anyone who is lazy. Doxers tend to spend a while searching around the web for information that they can use.
Chances are, you’ve made some mistakes online, and if a skilled Doxer finds that mistake, then you’re in trouble. The Doxing method is based purely on the ability of the hacker to recognize valuable information about his target and use this information to his benefit. It is also based around the idea that, “The more you know about your target, the easier it will be to find his or her flaws.”

How can you insure that you won’t be Doxed? Well, as the Internet becomes more and more useful and addicting, it will become harder to not get Doxed. The main issue for most victims is their security questions, and their password security. If a victim has a very easy-to-find recovery question, then the victim will be easily reverted within a matter of seconds. Also, if the victim has a simple password, it could get brute forced simply by using a wordlist that applies to the victim’s interests, likes, and fancies (of course, this method is not as popular).

So, the main rule to not getting hacked is: Have secure passwords, and almost impossible to guess recovery questions. The main rule to not getting Doxed is… to just stay off the Internet; but, who wants to do that?

Hidden Windows 7 Themes

2013-09-30T21:51:00.001-07:00

Unlock Hidden Windows 7 Themes

There are a number of regional themes with multiple unique background images hidden from Windows 7 users. On a Windows 7 install with United States regional settings only the United States theme is shown but there are actually more themes hidden from view.

Accessing all the themes is easy to do once you know where to find them. The trick is to navigate to the C:\Windows\Globalization\MCT directory. The MCT directory within the Globalization directory is super hidden so it will not display even if show hidden files and folders is enabled. Just click on the address bar of any folder and manually type in or copy and paste in C:\Windows\Globalization\MCT and hit Enter.

Once you have reached the MCT folder you will see twenty directories as listed below:

MCT-AU

MCT-BR

MCT-CA

MCT-CN

MCT-DE

MCT-ES

MCT-FR

MCT-GB

MCT-IN

MCT-IT

MCT-JP

MCT-KR

MCT-MX

MCT-NL

MCT-PL

MCT-RU

MCT-TR

MCT-TW

MCT-US

MCT-ZA

To view and use the theme for each region just navigate into each MCT-Region directory, enter the Theme sub-directory and double click the theme file.

Enable/Disable Windows Key

2013-07-18T20:03:00.003-07:00

How To Enable/Disable Windows Key

Just follow my way below to disable Windows key.

First, open your Registry Editor (Run > type regedit) and navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESystemCurrentControlSetControlKeyBoard Layout
In the right pane, search the key â€œScancode Mapâ€�. If it doesn’t exist, make a new binary key with the same name.
Type its value 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 03 00 00 00 00 00 5B E0 00 00 5C E0 00 00 00 00 and press Enter.

That’s it. Your Windows key is disabled and will not work now. To enable it back, delete this value.

Customize Older CPU L2 Cache

2013-07-18T19:55:00.003-07:00

How To Customize Older CPU ' L2 Cache

By default, windows is only optimized for a 256KB secondary cache. Most of the computers now having L2 caches larger than that it pays to take the time to change the setting to correspond to the size of the cache memory installed.

Open Registry Editor
Start-Run
Type regedit in Run box
Exepent the registry path like the following
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session Manager\
Memory Management
Choice Value name “SecondLevelDataCache”
Data Type is DWORD
Enter the Cache Size of your processor{512 Kb}.

It is only useful for older processors with the cache located external to the CPU.

Computer Glossary

2013-07-16T20:41:00.001-07:00

Computer Glossary

Applet
A small Java application that is downloaded by an ActiveX or Java-enabled web browser. Once it has been downloaded, the applet will run on the user's computer. Common applets include financial calculators and web drawing programs.
Application
Computer software that performs a task or set of tasks, such as word processing or drawing. Applications are also referred to as programs.
ASCII
American Standard Code for Information Interchange, an encoding system for converting keyboard characters and instructions into the binary number code that the computer understands.
Bandwidth
The capacity of a networked connection. Bandwidth determines how much data can be sent along the networked wires. Bandwidth is particularly important for Internet connections, since greater bandwidth also means faster downloads.
Binary code
The most basic language a computer understands, it is composed of a series of 0s and 1s. The computer interprets the code to form numbers, letters, punctuation marks, and symbols.
Bit
The smallest piece of computer information, either the number 0 or 1. In short ther are called binary digits.
Boot
To start up a computer. Cold boot.restarting computer after having turned off the power. Warm boot.restarting computer without having turned off the power.
Browser
Software used to navigate the Internet. Netscape Navigator and Microsoft Internet Explorer are today's most popular browsers for accessing the World Wide Web.
Bug
A malfunction due to an error in the program or a defect in the equipment.
Byte
Most computers use combinations of eight bits, called bytes, to represent one character of data or instructions. For example, the word .cat. has three characters, and it would be represented by three bytes.
Cache
A small data-memory storage area that a computer can use to instantly re-access data instead of re-reading the data from the original source, such as a hard drive. Browsers use a cache to store web pages so that the user may view them again without reconnecting to the Web.
CAD-CAM
Computer Aided Drawing-Computer Aided Manufacturing. The instructions stored in a computer that will be translated to very precise operating instructions to a robot, such as for assembling cars or laser-cutting signage.
CD-ROM
Compact Disc Read-Only Memory. An optically read disc designed to hold information such as music, reference materials, or computer software. A single CD-ROM can hold around 640 megabytes of data, enough for several encyclopedias. Most software programs are now delivered on CD-ROMs.
CGI
Common Gateway Interface. A programming standard that allows visitors to fill out form fields on a Web page and have that information interact with a database, possibly coming back to the user as another Web page. CGI may also refer to Computer-Generated Imaging, the process in which sophisticated computer programs create still and animated graphics, such as special effects for movies.
Chat
Typing text into a message box on a screen to engage in dialog with one or more people via the Internet or other network.
Chip
A tiny wafer of silicon containing miniature electric circuits that can store millions of bits of information.
Client
A single user of a network application that is operated from a server. A client/server architecture allows many people to use the same data simultaneously. The program's main component (the data) resides on a centralized server, with smaller components (user interface) on each client.
Cookie
A text file sent by a Web server that is stored on the hard drive of a computer and relays back to the Web server things about the user, his or her computer, and/or his or her computer activities.
CPU
Central Processing Unit. The brain of the computer.
Cracker
A person who .breaks in. to a computer through a network, without authorization and with mischievous or destructive intent.
Crash
A hardware or software problem that causes information to be lost or the computer to malfunction. Sometimes a crash can cause permanent damage to a computer.
Cursor
A moving position-indicator displayed on a computer monitor that shows a computer operator where the next action or operation will take place.
Cyberspace
Slang for internet ie. An international conglomeration of interconnected computer networks. Begun in the late 1960s, it was developed in the 1970s to allow government and university researchers to share information. The Internet is not controlled by any single group or organization. Its original focus was research and communications, but it continues to expand, offering a wide array of resources for business and home users.

Database
A collection of similar information stored in a file, such as a database of addresses. This information may be created and stored in a database management system (DBMS).
Debug
Slang. To find and correct equipment defects or program malfunctions.
Default
The pre-defined configuration of a system or an application. In most programs, the defaults can be changed to reflect personal preferences.
Desktop
The main directory of the user interface. Desktops usually contain icons that represent links to the hard drive, a network (if there is one), and a trash or recycling can for files to be deleted. It can also display icons of frequently used applications, as requested by the user.
Desktop publishing
The production of publication-quality documents using a personal computer in combination with text, graphics, and page layout programs.
Directory
A repository where all files are kept on computer.
Disk
Two distinct types. The names refer to the media inside the container:
A hard disc stores vast amounts of data. It is usually inside the computer but can be a separate peripheral on the outside. Hard discs are made up of several rigid coated metal discs. Currently, hard discs can store 15 to 30 Gb (gigabytes)
A floppy disc, 3.5" square, usually inserted into the computer and can store about 1.4 megabytes of data. The 3.5" square .floppies. have a very thin, flexible disc inside. There is also an intermediate-sized floppy disc, trademarked Zip discs, which can store 250 megabytes of data.
Disk drive
The equipment that operates a hard or floppy disc.
Domain
Represents an IP (Internet Protocol) address or set of IP addresses that comprise a domain. The domain name appears in URLs to identify web pages or in email addresses. For example, the email address for the First Lady is first.lady@whitehouse.gov, .whitehouse.gov. being the domain name. Each domain name ends with a suffix that indicates what .top level domain. it belongs to. These are: ..com. for commercial, ..gov. for government, ..org. for organization, ..edu. for educational institution, ..biz. for business, ..info. for information, ..tv. for television, ..ws. for website. Domain suffixes may also indicate the country in which the domain is registered. No two parties can ever hold the same domain name.
Domain name
The name of a network or computer linked to the Internet. Domains are defined by a common IP address or set of similar IP (Internet Protocol) addresses.
Download
The process of transferring information from a web site (or other remote location on a network) to the computer. It is possible to .download a file. or .view a download.
DOS
Disk Operating System. An operating system designed for early IBM-compatible PCs.
Drop-down menu
A menu window that opens vertically on-screen to display context-related options. Also called pop-up menu or pull-down menu.
DSL
Digital Subscriber Line. A method of connecting to the Internet via a phone line. A DSL connection uses copper telephone lines but is able to relay data at much higher speeds than modems and does not interfere with telephone use.
DVD
Digital Video Disc.Similar to a CD-ROM, it stores and plays both audio and video.
E-book
An electronic (usually hand-held) reading device that allows a person to view digitally stored reading materials.
Email
Electronic mail; messages, including memos or letters, sent electronically between networked computers that may be across the office or around the world.
Emoticon
A text-based expression of emotion created from ASCII characters that mimics a facial expression when viewed with your head tilted to the left. Here are some examples:
:-) Smiling
:-( Frowning
;-) Winking
:_( Crying
Encryption
The process of transmitting scrambled data so that only authorized recipients can unscramble it. For instance, encryption is used to scramble credit card information when purchases are made over the Internet.
Ethernet
A type of network.
Ethernet card
A board inside a computer to which a network cable can be attached.
File
A set of data that is stored in the computer.
Firewall
A set of security programs that protect a computer from outside interference or access via the Internet.
Folder
A structure for containing electronic files. In some operating systems, it is called a .directory.
Fonts
Sets of typefaces (or characters) that come in different styles and sizes.
Freeware
Software created by people who are willing to give it away for the satisfaction of sharing or knowing they helped to simplify other people's lives. It may be freestanding software, or it may add functionality to existing software.
FTP
File Transfer Protocol. A format and set of rules for transferring files from a host to a remote computer.
Gigabyte (GB)
1024 megabytes. Also called gig.
Glitch
The cause of an unexpected malfunction.
Gopher
An Internet search tool that allows users to access textual information through a series of menus, or if using FTP, through downloads.
GUI
Graphical User Interface. A system that simplifies selecting computer commands by enabling the user to point to symbols or illustrations (called icons) on the computer screen with a mouse.
Groupware
Software that allows networked individuals to form groups and collaborate on documents, programs, or databases.
Hacker
A person with technical expertise who experiments with computer systems to determine how to develop additional features. Hackers are occasionally requested by system administrators to try and .break into. systems via a network to test security. The term hacker is sometimes incorrectly used interchangeably with cracker. A hacker is called a .white hat. and a cracker a .black hat.
Hard copy
A paper printout of what you have prepared on the computer.
Hard drive
Another name for the hard disc that stores information information in a computer.
Hardware
The physical and mechanical components of a computer system, such as the electronic circuitry, chips, monitor, disks, disk drives, keyboard, modem, and printer.
Home page
The main page of a Web site used to greet visitors, provide information about the site, or to direct the viewer to other pages on the site.
HTML
Hypertext Markup Language. A standard of text markup conventions used for documents on the World Wide Web. Browsers interpret the codes to give the text structure and formatting (such as bold, blue, or italic).
HTTP
Hypertext Transfer Protocol. A common system used to request and send HTML documents on the World Wide Web. It is the first portion of all URL addresses on the World Wide Web
HTTPS
Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure. Often used in intracompany internet sites. Passwords are required to gain access.
Hyperlink
Text or an image that is connected by hypertext coding to a different location. By selecting the text or image with a mouse, the computer .jumps to. (or displays) the linked text.
Hypermedia
Integrates audio, graphics, and/or video through links embedded in the main program.
Hypertext
A system for organizing text through links, as opposed to a menu-driven hierarchy such as Gopher. Most Web pages include hypertext links to other pages at that site, or to other sites on the World Wide Web.
Icons
Symbols or illustrations appearing on the computer screen that indicate program files or other computer functions.
Input
Data that goes into a computer device.
Input device
A device, such as a keyboard, stylus and tablet, mouse, puck, or microphone, that allows input of information (letters, numbers, sound, video) to a computer.
Instant messenging (IM)
A chat application that allows two or more people to communicate over the Internet via real-time keyed-in messages.
Interface
The interconnections that allow a device, a program, or a person to interact. Hardware interfaces are the cables that connect the device to its power source and to other devices. Software interfaces allow the program to communicate with other programs (such as the operating system), and user interfaces allow the user to communicate with the program (e.g., via mouse, menu commands, icons, voice commands, etc.).
Internet
An international conglomeration of interconnected computer networks. Begun in the late 1960s, it was developed in the 1970s to allow government and university researchers to share information. The Internet is not controlled by any single group or organization. Its original focus was research and communications, but it continues to expand, offering a wide array of resources for business and home users.
IP (Internet Protocol) address
An Internet Protocol address is a unique set of numbers used to locate another computer on a network. The format of an IP address is a 32-bit string of four numbers separated by periods. Each number can be from 0 to 255 (i.e., 1.154.10.266). Within a closed network IP addresses may be assigned at random, however, IP addresses of web servers must be registered to avoid duplicates.
Java
An object-oriented programming language designed specifically for programs (particularly multimedia) to be used over the Internet. Java allows programmers to create small programs or applications (applets) to enhance Web sites.
Javascript/ECMA script
A programming language used almost exclusively to manipulate content on a web page. Common Javascript functions include validating forms on a web page, creating dynamic page navigation menus, and image rollovers.
kilobyte (K or KB)
Equal to 1,024 bytes.
Linux
A UNIX.-like, open-source operating system developed primarily by Linus Torvalds. Linux is free and runs on many platforms, including both PCs and Macintoshes. Linux is an open-source operating system, meaning that the source code of the operating system is freely available to the public. Programmers may redistribute and modify the code, as long as they don't collect royalties on their work or deny access to their code. Since development is not restricted to a single corporation more programmers can debug and improve the source code faster.
Laptop and notebook
Small, lightweight, portable battery-powered computers that can fit onto your lap. They each have a thin, flat, liquid crystal display screen.
Macro
A script that operates a series of commands to perform a function. It is set up to automate repetitive tasks.
Mac OS
An operating system with a graphical user interface, developed by Apple. for Macintosh. computers. Current System .X.1. (10) combines the traditional Mac interface with a strong underlying UNIX. operating system for increased performance and stability.
Megabyte (MB)
Equal to 1,048,576 bytes, usually rounded off to one million bytes (also called a .meg.).
Memory
Temporary storage for information, including applications and documents. The information must be stored to a permanent device, such as a hard disc or CD-ROM before the power is turned off, or the information will be lost. Computer memory is measured in terms of the amount of information it can store, commonly in megabytes or gigabytes.
Menu
A context-related list of options that users can choose from.
Menu bar
The horizontal strip across the top of an application's window. Each word on the strip has a context sensitive drop-down menu containing features and actions that are available for the application in use.
Merge
To combine two or more files into a single file.
MHz
An abbreviation for Megahertz, or one million hertz. One MHz represents one million clock cycles per second and is the measure of a computer microprocessor's speed. For example, a microprocessor that runs at 300 MHz executes 300 million cycles per second. Each instruction a computer receives takes a fixed number of clock cycles to carry out, therefore the more cycles a computer can execute per second, the faster its programs run. Megahertz is also a unit of measure for bandwidth.
Microprocessor
A complete central processing unit (CPU) contained on a single silicon chip.
Minimize
A term used in a GUI operating system that uses windows. It refers to reducing a window to an icon, or a label at the bottom of the screen, allowing another window to be viewed.
Modem
A device that connects two computers together over a telephone or cable line by converting the computer's data into an audio signal. Modem is a contraction for the process it performs: modulate-demodulate.
Monitor
A video display terminal.
Mouse
A small hand-held device, similar to a trackball, used to control the position of the cursor on the video display; movements of the mouse on a desktop correspond to movements of the cursor on the screen.
MP3
Compact audio and video file format. The small size of the files makes them easy to download and e-mail. Format used in portable playback devices.
Multimedia
Software programs that combine text and graphics with sound, video, and animation. A multimedia PC contains the hardware to support these capabilities.
MS-DOS
An early operating system developed by Microsoft Corporation (Microsoft Disc Operating System).
Network
A system of interconnected computers.
Open source
Computer programs whose original source code was revealed to the general public so that it could be developed openly. Software licensed as open source can be freely changed or adapted to new uses, meaning that the source code of the operating system is freely available to the public. Programmers may redistribute and modify the code, as long as they don't collect royalties on their work or deny access to their code. Since development is not restricted to a single corporation more programmers can debug and improve the source code faster.
Operating system
A set of instructions that tell a computer on how to operate when it is turned on. It sets up a filing system to store files and tells the computer how to display information on a video display. Most PC operating systems are DOS (disc operated system) systems, meaning the instructions are stored on a disc (as opposed to being originally stored in the microprocessors of the computer). Other well-known operating systems include UNIX, Linux, Macintosh, and Windows.
Output
Data that come out of a computer device. For example, information displayed on the monitor, sound from the speakers, and information printed to paper.
Palm
A hand-held computer.
PC
Personal computer. Generally refers to computers running Windows with a Pentium processor.
PC board
Printed Circuit board. A board printed or etched with a circuit and processors. Power supplies, information storage devices, or changers are attached.
PDA
Personal Digital Assistant. A hand-held computer that can store daily appointments, phone numbers, addresses, and other important information. Most PDAs link to a desktop or laptop computer to download or upload information.
PDF
Portable Document Format. A format presented by Adobe Acrobat that allows documents to be shared over a variety of operating systems. Documents can contain words and pictures and be formatted to have electronic links to other parts of the document or to places on the web.
Pentium chip
Intel's fifth generation of sophisticated high-speed microprocessors. Pentium means .the fifth element..
Peripheral
Any external device attached to a computer to enhance operation. Examples include external hard drive, scanner, printer, speakers, keyboard, mouse, trackball, stylus and tablet, and joystick.
Personal computer (PC)
A single-user computer containing a central processing unit (CPU) and one or more memory circuits.
Petabyte
A measure of memory or storage capacity and is approximately a thousand terabytes.
Petaflop
A theoretical measure of a computer's speed and can be expressed as a thousand-trillion floating-point operations per second.
Platform
The operating system, such as UNIX., Macintosh., Windows., on which a computer is based.
Plug and play
Computer hardware or peripherals that come set up with necessary software so that when attached to a computer, they are .recognized. by the computer and are ready to use.
Pop-up menu
A menu window that opens vertically or horizontally on-screen to display context-related options. Also called drop-down menu or pull-down menu.
Power PC
A competitor of the Pentium chip. It is a new generation of powerful sophisticated microprocessors produced from an Apple-IBM-Motorola alliance.
Printer
A mechanical device for printing a computer's output on paper. There are three major types of printers: Dot matrix: creates individual letters, made up of a series of tiny ink dots, by punching a ribbon with the ends of tiny wires. (This type of printer is most often used in industrial settings, such as direct mail for labeling.)
Ink jet: sprays tiny droplets of ink particles onto paper.
Laser: uses a beam of light to reproduce the image of each page using a magnetic charge that attracts dry toner that is transferred to paper and sealed with heat.
Program
A precise series of instructions written in a computer language that tells the computer what to do and how to do it. Programs are also called .software. or .applications.
Programming language
A series of instructions written by a programmer according to a given set of rules or conventions (.syntax.). High-level programming languages are independent of the device on which the application (or program) will eventually run; low-level languages are specific to each program or platform. Programming language instructions are converted into programs in language specific to a particular machine or operating system (.machine language.) so that the computer can interpret and carry out the instructions. Some common programming languages are BASIC, C, C++, dBASE, FORTRAN, and Perl.
Puck
An input device, like a mouse. It has a magnifying glass with crosshairs on the front of it that allows the operator to position it precisely when tracing a drawing for use with CAD-CAM software.
Pull-down menu
A menu window that opens vertically on-screen to display context-related options. Also called drop-down menu or pop-up menu.
Push technology
Internet tool that delivers specific information directly to a user's desktop, eliminating the need to surf for it. PointCast, which delivers news in user-defined categories, is a popular example of this technology.
QuickTime.
Audio-visual software that allows movie-delivery via the Internet and e-mail. QuickTime mages are viewed on a monitor.
RAID
Redundant Array of Inexpensive Disks. A method of spreading information across several disks set up to act as a unit, using two different techniques:
Disk striping: storing a bit of information across several discs (instead of storing it all on one disc and hoping that the disc doesn't crash).
Disk mirroring: simultaneously storing a copy of information on another disc so that the information can be recovered if the main disc crashes.
RAM
Random Access Memory. One of two basic types of memory. Portions of programs are stored in RAM when the program is launched so that the program will run faster. Though a PC has a fixed amount of RAM, only portions of it will be accessed by the computer at any given time. Also called memory.
Right-click
Using the right mouse button to open context-sensitive drop-down menus.
ROM
Read-Only Memory. One of two basic types of memory. ROM contains only permanent information put there by the manufacturer. Information in ROM cannot be altered, nor can the memory be dynamically allocated by the computer or its operator.
Scanner
An electronic device that uses light-sensing equipment to scan paper images such as text, photos, and illustrations and translate the images into signals that the computer can then store, modify, or distribute.
Search engine
Software that makes it possible to look for and retrieve material on the Internet, particularly the Web. Some popular search engines are Alta Vista, Google, HotBot, Yahoo!, Web Crawler, and Lycos.
Server
A computer that shares its resources and information with other computers, called clients, on a network.
Shareware
Software created by people who are willing to sell it at low cost or no cost for the gratification of sharing. It may be freestanding software, or it may add functionality to existing software.
Software
Computer programs; also called .applications.
Spider
A process search engines use to investigate new pages on a web site and collect the information that needs to be put in their indices.
Spreadsheet
Software that allows one to calculate numbers in a format that is similar to pages in a conventional ledger.
Storage
Devices used to store massive amounts of information so that it can be readily retrieved. Devices include RAIDs, CD-ROMs, DVDs
Streaming
Taking packets of information (sound or visual) from the Internet and storing it in temporary files to allow it to play in continuous flow.
Stylus and tablet
A input device similar to a mouse. The stylus is pen shaped. It is used to .draw. on a tablet (like drawing on paper) and the tablet transfers the information to the computer. The tablet responds to pressure.the firmer the pressure used to draw, the thicker the line appears.
Surfing
Exploring the Internet.
Surge protector
A controller to protect the computer and make up for variances in voltage.
Telnet
A way to communicate with a remote computer over a network.
Trackball
Input device that controls the position of the cursor on the screen; the unit is mounted near the keyboard, and movement is controlled by moving a ball.
Terabytes (TB)
A thousand gigabytes.
Teraflop
A measure of a computer's speed. It can be expressed as a trillion floating-point operations per second.
Trojan Horse
See virus.
UNIX.
A very powerful operating system used as the basis of many high-end computer applications.
Upload
The process of transferring information from a computer to a web site (or other remote location on a network). v. To transfer information from a computer to a web site (or other remote location on a network).
URL
Uniform Resource Locator.
1. The protocol for identifying a document on the Web.
2. A Web address (e.g., www.tutorialspoint.com). A URL is unique to each user. See also domain.
UPS
Universal Power Supply or Uninterruptible Power Supply. An electrical power supply that includes a battery to provide enough power to a computer during an outage to back-up data and properly shut down.
USB
A multiple-socket USB connecter that allows several USB-compatible devices to be connected to a computer.
USENET
A large unmoderated and unedited bulletin board on the Internet that offers thousands of forums, called newsgroups. These range from newsgroups exchanging information on scientific advances to celebrity fan clubs.
User friendly
A program or device whose use is intuitive to people with a nontechnical background.
Video teleconferencing
A remote "face-to-face chat," when two or more people using a webcam and an Internet telephone connection chat online. The webcam enables both live voice and video.
Virtual reality (VR)
A technology that allows one to experience and interact with images in a simulated three-dimensional environment. For example, you could design a room in a house on your computer and actually feel that you are walking around in it even though it was never built. (The Holodeck in the science-fiction TV series Star Trek: Voyager would be the ultimate virtual reality.) Current technology requires the user to wear a special helmet, viewing goggles, gloves, and other equipment that transmits and receives information from the computer.
Virus
An unauthorized piece of computer code attached to a computer program or portions of a computer system that secretly copies itself from one computer to another by shared discs and over telephone and cable lines. It can destroy information stored on the computer, and in extreme cases, can destroy operability. Computers can be protected from viruses if the operator utilizes good virus prevention software and keeps the virus definitions up to date. Most viruses are not programmed to spread themselves. They have to be sent to another computer by e-mail, sharing, or applications. The worm is an exception, because it is programmed to replicate itself by sending copies to other computers listed in the e-mail address book in the computer. There are many kinds of viruses, for example:
Boot viruses place some of their code in the start-up disk sector to automatically execute when booting. Therefore, when an infected machine boots, the virus loads and runs.
File viruses attached to program files (files with the extension ..exe.). When you run the infected program, the virus code executes.
Macro viruses copy their macros to templates and/or other application document files.
Trojan Horse is a malicious, security-breaking program that is disguised as something benign such as a screen saver or game.
Worm launches an application that destroys information on your hard drive. It also sends a copy of the virus to everyone in the computer's e-mail address book.
WAV
A sound format (pronounced .wave.) used to reproduce sounds on a computer.
Webcam
A video camera/computer setup that takes live images and sends them to a Web browser.
Window
A portion of a computer display used in a graphical interface that enables users to select commands by pointing to illustrations or symbols with a mouse. "Windows" is also the name Microsoft adopted for its popular operating system.
World Wide Web ("WWW" or "the Web")
A network of servers on the Internet that use hypertext-linked databases and files. It was developed in 1989 by Tim Berners-Lee, a British computer scientist, and is now the primary platform of the Internet. The feature that distinguishes the Web from other Internet applications is its ability to display graphics in addition to text.
Word processor
A computer system or program for setting, editing, revising, correcting, storing, and printing text.
Worm
See virus.
WYSIWYG
What You See Is What You Get. When using most word processors, page layout programs (See desktop publishing), and web page design programs, words and images will be displayed on the monitor as they will look on the printed page or web page.