Computer Problems - 5 Simple Ways To Speed Up Your Computer

By: Donald Mckenzie Jr

When a computer starts to slow down it can really be a big pain. Many people believe that only a computer technician is the final answer. Actually there are things you can do yourself to speed up your own computer. This article will show you a few simple ways to speed up your computer.

1) Clean The Start Up Folder.

Items in the Startup folder are not the actual programs themselves. They are simply shortcuts to the programs. Deleting these items will not affect the programs themselves. If you are lucky enough to be using Windows 98 or XP, you can perform the cleanup right from the same screen used to check your Startup programs list. Move your cursor over the item you want to remove, right-click, and choose delete. Before you delete any item from your start-up folder, be sure that you at least try to determine its function.

Some programs like Microsoft Office will have a Fast Find or Office Start in the Startup folder. These shortcuts are unnecessary and can be deleted. If you don't know the purpose of an item in your Startup folder, you can still delete it. If you later find that you want to return it to the Startup folder, you can simply open the Recycle Bin, highlight the icon, right-click, and choose Restore.

2) Remove Old Programs and Software.

The first thing to do is click Start /Programs then hunt for the program you want to delete. Oftentimes, you'll find an Uninstall program under its program group. Another way would be to click the Start button/Settings/Control Panel. Then open the "Add/Remove programs" icon. You will see a list of programs that Windows can remove from your system. Just click the one you would like to remove and hit the OK button.

3) Scan Your Computer for Viruses, Mal-Ware, Trojans, and Spy ware.

In order to do this, it is highly recommended that you get a very good virus and spy ware cleaner. A free on can be found on the internet, but you should go to your nearest computer store for one. If your computer gets filled with ad-ware, viruses, spy ware, and other things, it will slow down dramatically. Try to detect them early and destroy them before any serious harm can come to your computer.

4) Keep Windows Update Turned On at All Times.

There are so many people who overlook this one simple step. Windows will provide free updates to all users. All you have to do is make sure that the icon is present and turned on. You will be reminded each time a new patch or new software becomes available. Do not overlook this step. Windows keeps all users up to date on all current viruses and other harmful things that can hurt your computer.

5) Remove Old Downloaded Desktop Themes.

The theme you downloaded may have installed onto your computer in a number of ways. Try this option: Click Start -> Settings -> Control Panel -> Add / Remove programs. Look for any themes you may have installed and attempt to remove from here. You can also look in the Program Files Folder: Click Start -> Programs, and search for folders which represent theme names you installed on your system. If you find the themes listed, click the listing and look for the uninstall program button.

Keep in mind that this is only a small list of things to speed up any computer that uses windows. There can be a number of things wrong or altering your computer speed. Do a search online and you can find more things to look for. Good luck and take care of your computer.

What You Need To Know When Purchasing A Laptop

By: David Fishman

When people talk about laptops, everyone assumes that all laptops are wireless. Traveling with a laptop is easier today than it once was, the laptops have gotten smaller and lighter. The new mobile laptops make computing easy for many people. When purchasing a laptop, make sure a wireless connection is built in so you can reach the internet if you are in a wireless area.

The laptop is replacing the big desktop computer; but the mobile computer needs to provide the ability to accept components for expandability. Many people today keep all of the information on their computer, so if the computer goes down many people will not have that data. In today's modern world the laptop or sometimes called notebook is a must have.

If you do not have a laptop computer yet, you should know that one of the most important aspects of having a laptop computer is having a great power supply. Every laptop computer needs to be equipped with some type of warranty; the laptop should have at least a one year manufacturer warranty. You may even be able to play movies on them with crystal clarity. Purchasing a laptop computer is not an easy job to do because there are so many important things that should be considered before purchasing.

The type of work you do can affect the screen size and type that is most suitable for you. If you are not worried about graphics a screen size of 12-14" is acceptable. If the work you are doing is graphically intensive than a 15-17" is better. Screen sizes range from 12 to 19 inches. A laptop computer with smaller screen is great option if you do not plan to use laptop too much.

Going from 256MB of RAM to 512MB of RAM will speed up your laptop. If your needs are somewhat mundane - email, spreadsheets, word processing, etc. 512 MB of RAM should be plenty. RAM is to a computer what location is to real estate.

You also need to think about the hard drive in the laptop you are considering. The hard drive is also a very important specification to consider in buying a laptop. The speed of a hard drive is normally calculated in rotations per minute. A hard drive of about 50 gb or over is a good rule of thumb.

In addition to the processor, you will probably want to upgrade your system with memory, monitor, a graphics card or video card, and pointing device and keyboard. Finding cheap components is easy today due to the internet, many sites have popped up and made all of these components accessible. The important thing to remember when shopping for components is that you need to make sure they are compatible with your system.

Laptop cases are an important computer accessory you should make sure you acquire. They have many sections that accommodate important office documents. Another important type of carrying case is the wheeled roller case. But, their safety and protection is equally important. A laptop case is specially made for carrying a laptop but a backpack is just a bottomless pit. Getting a quality bag is very important since you are carrying around an expensive piece of equipment. Your notebook is going to be at least 6 pounds, probably more. The portability of laptop computers is both a boon to busy business people. Your notebook should be sturdy and rugged. Expensive notebooks should be protected properly.

Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=147783&ca=Computers+and+Technology

Spyware Removal Tools: Software Programs You Can't Live Without!

By: David Dorrough

You just purchased a brand new computer. You turn it on and discover how wonderful it is. It runs super fast, going from one page to another. Your surfing really is much faster now. Life is wonderful.

Fast forward a few months. Your brand new computer doesn't seem to be performing like it used to. It's now running very slowly and your hard drive seems to be making a lot of noise.

What's happened? There is a strong possibility that you have had some sort of spyware, adware, or malware installed on your computer. These unwanted programs can wreak havoc on your computer. Symptoms can vary. The number one symptom is that your computer is not nearly as fast as it used to be. Other symptoms can include the following: pop-ups are now appearing while you surf, strange icons appear on either your desktop or start up menu that you haven't seen before, your browser gets replaced for another, your mouse cursor seems to float across the page while at rest, your computer locks up frequently, and displays a lot of error codes, and you start receiving a lot of spam in your email.

These symptoms are just the beginning. Left unchecked, they will get worse. As annoying as these problems are, there is a more serious result that can occur if action isn't taken.

Spyware is basically a program that gets installed on your computer by advertising companies that want to monitor your surfing habits to assist them in their marketing efforts. However, a more serious form of spyware, called malware can get installed on your hard drive that can cause some really serious problems. One, malware can basically crash your computer, making it a necessity to erase everything on your PC and start over from scratch. This is not a fun task. I have had it happen to me and I lost a lot of important information during that process. There are also forms of spyware that can get installed on your PC that will allow a remote user to use your PC from a distance for all kinds of illegal activity such as child porn to spamming. If you find yourself in this situation, it will be difficult to prove your innocence.

Identity theft can also occur as a result of spyware, adware, and malware. Your banking information, credit card numbers, and passwords can get stolen.

So, the question arises, how do you prevent these events from happening?

The main activities that people do that exposes them to spyware are downloading files related to the following: Screensavers, music, PC games, movies, and pictures. So to start off with, I would avoid downloading anything from the Internet in those categories.

Be sure that you have a high quality firewall installed and have it set to either medium or medium high. If you set it to high, you will find that it won't let you perform a lot of activities on the Internet.

Change your passwords monthly on your online banking accounts, credit card accounts, email accounts, or any other sensitive accounts that you would not want anyone having access to.

Whenever you do sign into important accounts, always open up a new browser window to log-in and always be sure to log yourself out. You don't need your passwords floating out there in cyberspace.

Be sure that your virus program is set to receive automatic updates. The same thing goes with windows. Be sure it is set to receive automatic updates, also. The reason being is that important patches will be sent out as soon as their programmers find gaps in their programming that allows these activities to filter through their programming. Without these patches, you are leaving yourself wide open to attack.

It should go without saying that a high quality spyware removal program should be obtained. This will work in tandem with your main security program, such as McAfee or Norton. There are some free ones, like Ad Aware SE that can be obtained, however, in my experience, I have found that the free ones don't offer near the protection that the paid versions do. A high quality spyware removal program can detect the following: spyware, adware, malware, worms, viruses, and trojans. It will also alert you in real time before any of these unwanted programs are actually installed on your PC, allowing you to prevent the unwanted program from being installed in the first place. Another program that I would encourage you to purchase is a registry repair program. This one tool is invaluable as most of the damage done by spyware will wreak havoc on your windows registry.

Protecting your PC and preventing identity theft will be an ongoing battle. As the hackers develop new ways to cause trouble, spyware programmers have to find ways to battle back. The battle can be won as long as the right precautions are taken in your surfing habits and you have the right tools to address the problems.

Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=80185&ca=Computers+and+Technology

Computer Franchises: Preparing For A Franchise Expo

By: Joshua Feinberg

You can find computer franchises by going to franchise expositions, but you have to prepare for them in order to minimize being overwhelmed by the options and narrow down your search. Since exhibitors go to these expos in order to sell their franchise, you need to prepare to know exactly how to find a franchise that will fit your needs and abilities. Attending a franchise exposition is a fantastic method by which to familiarize yourself with the options available to you.

Your Maximum Investment

The first bit of preparation involved figuring out how much you can invest so when you get there you know what computer franchises are even within your realm of possibilities. You will know not to waste precious time talking to a sales person if his franchise fee is outside your budget and will be able to move forward to those that are affordable.

Proof Of Earnings

Some computer franchises will brag about high earnings and profits at expose to lure you. While some might be telling the truth, some might be exaggerating to get your attention. If you insist on seeing proof of their earnings, you will find out quickly the truth of the matter and be able to move onto another franchise if they cannot provide legitimate substantiation.

Write It Down

Franchise expositions offer so many computer franchises that it can be easy for you to forget all the details. If you take careful notes on each option you find, you will be more easily able to review your choices after the expo is over. Taking brochures and pamphlets is also a good idea, along with obtaining contact names and numbers in case you have questions afterwards.

The Offer

Don't be pressured into signing contracts or giving deposits at the expo itself. You need the time after the expo to interview franchises outside the excitement of the expo and get general feedback and opinions. You also would be wise to hire an attorney to look carefully through contracts and the disclosure document to make sure it is in order. Since computer franchises are a giant investment, you need to know the computer franchise you choose is absolutely right for you.

When attending a franchise expo, you need to be both informed and objective. If you know what to expect beforehand you will be able to make the right decisions during and afterwards.

Copyright MMI-MMVII, Computer Consultants Secrets. All Worldwide Rights Reserved. {Attention Publishers: Live hyperlink in author resource box required for copyright compliance}

Article Source: www.iSnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=78904&ca=Computers+and+Technology

Computer Monitoring Software - Is It Ethical?

By: Tim Chirillo

Computer monitoring software is used to spy on a person's internet activities. There are software programs nowadays that can track everything a person does on the computer -record instant message conversations, log emails sent and received, record all visited websites, so on and so on. The programs can be hidden from the unsuspecting user, and they usually have no idea they are being monitored. Only the person who installed it, and is doing the monitoring, will know where it is, and how to access all the devious activity, if there is any.

There are three primary uses for computer monitoring software . To monitor your child's internet activity, spy on your spouse or partner, or track your employees activities at the workplace (if you own a business). Is it ethical? In most cases I believe it is, in others there is a gray area.

In the case of monitoring our children, I do believe we as parents have every right to know what they are up to. The internet can be a very dangerous place for kids, and has become a haven for sexual predators. How do you think your teen would react if they found out you were watching them? They would probably go ballistic on you for betraying their trust.

I would suggest just telling them that you will be keeping an eye on their activities, and explain why. You do not have to tell them you are using spy software, just one warning to tell them you know what's going on, should suffice. It's our duty to protect our kids and ensure their safety in any way we can. Just give them a warning that you will be watching and set limits on their internet use. Make their working computer in the living room or den, a computer in their bedroom is asking for trouble. Even when your not at home, you can view their activities from a remote computer, if your working or on vacation.You can even see what they are doing remotely from another computer in the house you have access to.

Catching the cheating spouse. This is where it can get dangerous. I had once caught my exgirlfriend exchanging rather erotic emails with some guy over the web. Sure enough, she was having an affair. She had forgotten to log off her yahoo email account, and when I was checking my yahoo email, she was still logged on.

You can imagine I felt hurt and betrayed. This ultimately led to our break up, because she started dating the guy. I just think how would I feel if she was the one spying on me? I would feel very betrayed that she did not trust me. However, there is something inside all of us, that just has to know the truth. If you usecomputer monitoring on your spouse or partner, be careful your not caught. If your more computer savvy than them, most likely they will not know. If you are the faithful one, you certainly have a right to know.

Employees at the workplace. You want to make sure your employees are actually working and not goofing off at their workstations. With computer monitoring software, you can monitor multiple workstations at once. Is it ethical? Well, only the employees who have something to hide would say no.

You are trying to run a business, paying workers , you run the show. You have every right to know where your hard earned money is going. I would personally just let them know upon hiring, that all workstations are monitored for productivity.

Article Source: www.iSnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=147307&ca=Computers+and+Technology

Computer Repair Services: Benefits Of A Home Business

By: Joshua Feinberg

Society is completely reliant on technology, and computer repair services are in high demand. If you are looking to start your own computer repair services business, you should think about running it out of your home, as it can provide you with many benefits.

Many successful businesses have started from home, and it is definitely become a popular choice for those in the U.S. Benefits of a home business include lower start-up costs, less overhead, tax benefits and a positive attitude. If you know you are the type of person that can motivate yourself to work hard, you might be a good candidate for a home-based computer repair services business.

Start-Up Costs

Offering computer repair services from your home means very little overhead. Because you are already paying rent and utilities, you will need very little save perhaps an extra phone line, which will be much less expensive to get than a phone line in an outside office.

Taxes

Home-based computer repair services get many tax advantages. Your computer, desk and office space can all be deducted on your return. However, you need to ask an accountant to determine all applicable tax breaks.

A Positive Attitude

Working from home can truly boost your spirits. You avoid the stress associated with commuting and other parts of the daily grind, and you give yourself more time to spend with family and loved ones. Because you determine your own schedule at home, you can make flexible hours when needed. You also save money on meals and other expenses that really add up throughout the course of a week, month and year.

Having a home-based computer repair services business is great for the new business owner, and with hard work and self-discipline this type of business can bring you success and prosperity.

Copyright MMI-MMVII, Computer Consultants Secrets. All Worldwide Rights Reserved. {Attention Publishers: Live hyperlink in author resource box required for copyright compliance}

Article Source: www.iSnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=78569&ca=Computers+and+Technology

2007 - Top Ten Anti-Spyware Software Programs

Submitted By: Sue Dingerson

Protecting your computer from spyware is getting harder. Even corporate giant Microsoft has found its own systems compromised on more than one occasion. Just like antivirus software, Anti-Spyware software is essential to a computer’s ability to fend off spyware. These products are designed to protect against the ability of spyware to take over your PC.

For more information click on:
http://www.zunio.com/comparisons/Spyware_review_article.html

Top 10 Recommended Anti-Spyware Software Programs

At our site we have more detail on these products as well as a detailed comparison chart at:

http://www.zunio.com/comparisons/Spyware_review.html

Click here for the Product Review Table and Comparison Chart

1) Editor's Choice: BitDefender

BitDefender has won PC World's #1 Best Buy award for its new antivirus and anti-spyware suite, BitDefender Antivirus version 10. BitDefender's premium products have been popular for years in Europe and elsewhere, and now it's catching on in the United States as it surpasses the more familiar Norton and McAfee suites. BitDefender protects your computer in real time -- defending you against malicious websites, emails and -- most importantly -- spyware, which is the leading source of identity theft.

Easy to install and updated automatically, BitDefender is an "install and forget" security program. No more annoying "in-your-face" scanning and reminders to upgrade your security software to a more expensive version, simply the knowledge that your computer is protected from virus and spyware threats. For advanced users who want more control over their computer security, BitDefender is also customizable to suit your needs.

The vendor allows you to purchase two licenses for the price of one and protect two computers for two years for only $39.95.

2) Webroot Spy Sweeper

Webroot Spy Sweeper is the hottest anti-spyware on the Web today. It won PC World's Editor's Choice and Best Buy awards in 2006 and was Softpedia's "Pick" of 2007. Even the most malicious and advanced spyware installations such as CoolWebSearch and Look2Me are no match for Spy Sweeper's security suite.

Its easy-to-use interface and accessible online and telephone customer service allow users of all skill levels to protect themselves against spyware. Less computer-savvy users can click through the standard setup, while experts can customize their level of protection to suit their needs. Spy Sweeper also now offers automatic inbound and outbound email attachment scanning, the option for manual or automatic updates and the ability to seek out and destroy existing spyware on a computer that's already infected. It is priced at $29.95.

3) Spyware Doctor

Spyware Doctor is a very popular program -- boasting more than 100 million downloads over its lifespan. Its won awards from Computer Shopper, PC World and tucows -- and PC Tools "Best of the Year 2005 and 2006. Spyware Doctor offers free customer service to all its users, the latest security upgrades to let you know you are always protected, and a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee.

Spyware Doctor has beaten many other programs in head-to-head spyware detection tests, and it consistently outperforms the competition in spyware detection, removal and blocking. Spyware Doctor is constantly evolving to block new threats, so even as the spyware coders are outsmarting other programs, Spyware Doctor is working overtime to protect your machine and personal information. It's available for download for $29.95.

4) AntiSpy

Ever worry that someone might be watching your online activities? Never fear, AntiSpy is here! AntiSpy is designed to completely erase your computer history -- all the websites you've visited, downloads you've made, documents you've sent... It's all history when you activate AntiSpy.

AntiSpy can erase your tracks from Internet Explorer, Netscape Navigator, Opera, Mozilla, Windows and even IM messaging programs. It also clears your history from Windows Multimedia Player, ACDSee and RealPlayer, and it can rid your computer of its network logon history, records of opened files, all Internet searches, temporary files and swap files. Not only that, but it will clear your Cookies, program files you might have downloaded, Plug-ins, computer caches... the list goes on and on.

AntiSpy is also an award-winning anti-spyware program. It is not as full featured as BitDefender or Spy Sweeper, but for the casual user it is easy to use and reliable. Not only will AntiSpy ensure that Big Brother can't look over your shoulder, it will also save you loads of space on your hard drive! Available now for $24.95.

5) eTrust PestPatrol

eTrust PestPatrol Anti-spyware protection software can identify and eliminate viruses, trojan horses, worms and other spyware threats that slip past your firewall and antivirus software disguised as legitimate programs. A free test version is available to test for low-level threats, but you must upgrade to the full program in order to completely clean your machine. PestPatrol will remove any existing spyware from your computer, keep you safe from spyware that tracks your online activities, stops adware pop-ups from ruining your surfing experience and recovers your memory time that is being eaten up by hidden applications. Buy it for $29.95.

6) McAfee AntiSpyware

McAfee is a big name in computer security -- possibly second only to Norton in name-recognition and popularity. Its anti-spyware programs protect you from keyloggers, trojan horses and worms that can steal your personal information, leading to identity theft. Viruses, hackers, spyware coders beware -- a machine with McAfee installed is immune to your infiltration efforts. Automatic updates and several new and improved features make this a sure bet for users of all skill levels.

7) BPS Spyware Remover

BPS Spyware and Adware Remover will protect your machine from keylogging programs, trojan horses, dialers that can run up phone bills into the thousands, tracking spyware that watches your every move online... This program has it all. Active memory scan checks your computer's memory for active ad components that only appear when the computer is turned on. The Remover also scans for known spyware parasites and "scum-ware" components, alerts you of their presence, and allows you to safely remove them from your system. Pop-ups are history, along with pop-unders, when the Remover is installed on your machine. No more annoying interruptions while you're surfing from site to site. Buy it for $29.

8) Max Anti Spyware

Max Anti Spyware is designed to scan, detect and destroy viruses and spyware that have infected your machine. The complete package also comes with cookie, active x and BHO blockers to keep your personal information safe from prying eyes. Max will back up your registry, keep track of registry activity and report anything suspicious, and monitor your computer's processes for unusual activity. Max can even protect your website against hijackers with its Live Monitoring feature. Live updates keep Max looking for the latest security threats, so you can rest assured your computer is clean. Buy it for only $29.95.

9) #1 Spyware Killer

Spyware Killer is designed to detect even the most innocuous-looking viruses, spyware and worms. Files and documents that slip past your firewall undetected are no match for Spyware Killer. This program guards your privacy by seeking out and destroying keylogging programs, spyware that tracks your online activity and viruses and adware that slow down your computer processing time. Buy it for only $34.95.

10) Agent Spyware

Agent Spyware can detect viruses, malware and spyware on your machine in moments! One of the newest security suites available online, Agent Spyware offers protection against and detection of dangerous programs, files and documents that can compromise your security and slow your computer to a frustrating crawl. Buy it for $29.95 to $39.95.

Article Source: www.iSnare.com