Monday, March 26, 2012

High-5 For This All In One PC

You must have heard the announcements by Pizza Hut, McDonald's giving different packages such as a 3 in one deal, or a midnight buffet, etc. This is fun and very light on the pocket as well, however, after the meal is devoured by one end and out the other, it does not last. What if the same can be applied to something that is really needed around the clock? Yes, something that we are glued in front of 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and no, I am not talking about the television, but rather something more glorious than that. Something that evolved beyond the imagination of the human mind. I'm talking about the All In One PC's and it is called "CyberNet iONe H5" Desktop computer. As you might have already guessed by the name, it has been created by Cybernet. This thing is a killer. Usually, the technology related to Cybernet is found outside healthcare facilities.

The CyberNet iOne H5 has a ten-point touch screen and just like all the other PC's, whether it's by intel or any other company, it may have a few glitches. But hey, everything is not perfect and it is this imperfection that leads to the creations of something bigger and better like the CyberNet iOne H5 Desktop computer.

So what exactly is this all in one PC made of? To start with, it has a touch screen with 5-wire resistive technology in order to make it even more productive. Single or multi touch can be chosen according to one's needs. Personally, I would rather go for multi touch because I am already used to the iPhone 5 touch screen. It also has built in support for full video playback with 1080p high definition along with a 3D graphics card. This all in one computer has a powerful ATI Mobility GPU providing a faster and smoother high speed definition video acceleration.

One of the best parts I like about this All In One PC is that it takes less space than the regular desktop PC's. The iOne H5 comes with standard VESA mounting holes, but one should make sure the wall can support the mount. This means that if one doesn't have space on the desk or table, just plug it in to a nearby power outlet and you're good to go. With the addition of wireless keyboard and mouse available on eBay and Amazon, you can get rid of the cables too.

Coming to the main part of this beauty is its performance and it is not far behind the other computers because it earned a score of 133, 17 points higher than the top rated budget all in one PC on PC World.com.
So I'm quite sure you would be drooling by now to buy the best all in one PC and add it to your collection, but is your pocket shaking with fear. Up until July 2011, it had a cost of about $1332, now under $1,000.00. This came packed with a processor of i7-860, 8 GB of RAM (more the ram the better I always say) and a 500 GB hard drive. This type of compilation is great for an ordinary business or even at an educational scale. I would not miss this chance because I am already a PC-obsessed person.

Major Advantages Of Web Application Development

A web application allows the users to access an application over internet or intranet and can be updated & maintained over a browser without actually installing it on the system. Businesses can achieve huge benefits by gaining business applications through web applications development. A web application offers many benefits to both business and the client. The major advantages of web application development for a business are:

Customer Interaction: The present business world is highly competitive and everyone is trying to woo their customers with whatever means necessary. This requires them to stay in regular touch with their customers. Web apps can help businesses in staying connected with their customers and provides them with a much better and effective communication link. Better services will definitely increase the number of referred clients and respectively the sales.

Business Automation: The automation facility offered by it is one of its most essential features. All the data entry and management work is automatically done by the application thus it provides great relief for the business. The applications work in real time and all the changes and transactions are saved and available immediately. Moreover, the clients do not have to install the application in their system therefore it saves a lot of time and complexity faced by the customers or the users. Web apps allow businesses to automate their various time consuming and repetitive management tasks and gives them more time to concentrate on much important business issues.

Effective Applications:
This are highly effective in managing various parts of a business. It helps organizations in reducing their overall operating cost and maximizing the efficiency of their business operations. Users can manage their own accounts so that you don't have to employ a large staff for managing their accounts. However, the effectiveness of an application depends upon the efficiency of the web application development company.


Maximize profits: The final aim of all the business activities is to generate maximum profits and high return on investments. Web apps help businesses in achieving this end goal by implementing automation, effective management and reduced effort on the part of the business. Moreover, organizations are also able to save themselves from any losses incurred from scamming or software piracy.

The most important feature of web-applications that make them so popular and effective is that they can be made available to the users instantly without requiring them to download and install it on their systems. The important thing to take care of is the cross browser compatibility issues which may prove to be an obstacle in proper functioning of the application and can degrade the overall user experience. A professional web application development company with proven capabilities can help organizations and businesses in achieving a solution that truly justifies their requirements. Applications can also be applied for internal processes of an organization but they come under the category of enterprise applications which we will discuss in a separate article.

The Benefits Of Using Cisco VOIP

The Cisco VOIP is similar to calling on your telephone, only that instead of the traditional copper wires and the analog telephone exchange where the call is routed to, the VOIP uses the internet to route your calls.

In a business where telephone clarity or the clarity of the voice is important, the Cisco VOIP is unparalleled as compared to a traditional telephone system. Normally when your business relies on the calls that the customer makes to your company, the quality of the call rises above everything else, as the quality of the voice of both the customer and the support representative is paramount to be able to complete the call and give profits to the business that you are running.

But there is also an increasing use of the Cisco VOIP to route calls to and from the management side of the company, and not just the support side. In order to differentiate the management side of the company, you can imagine the support side as the agent who receives an incoming call from the customer. Whatever the customer wants, the agent should be able to hear it clearly and respond accordingly.

The management side of the company includes the clerks who do the accounting or the company, the secretaries who receive incoming calls from prospective clients, etc. People who own and run companies are finding out the advantages of Cisco VOIP as opposed to even using the traditional PABX system.

Although the PABX or The Private Automatic Branch Exchange handles all incoming and outgoing calls going to most of the company departments, an increasing number of companies are using a hybrid system of VOIP and the traditional PABX in handling both calls to and from the departments and to/from the support side.

The biggest difference to using the VOIP is the clarity of the voice and the efficiency of the system that it uses. While it is true that you still use internet bandwidth when using VOIP, advancements in the field of data compression allows a whole lot more voice channels to be integrated into a data channel that comprises just one ordinary telephone line. This means that if you manage to compress up to 7 to 10 actual voice data channels in your internet DSL line, this is equivalent to having up to 10 people talk to each other using just one ordinary telephone line.

Not only that, while you are able to compress the voice data in real time using the same internet that everybody is using, you are still able to use the rest of the internet for other uses, like managing your web application for the Cisco VOIP that you are using, search for answers to the question that the customer gave to you or even follow up on customers who you have to call back and more.

The chief advantage of using Cisco VOIP is the huge number of voice data channels that you can use over ordinary telephone lines. This is coupled with the fact that the VOIP is also backward interconnected to the traditional telephone systems so that you can also call anyone, anywhere in world in real time.

7 Tips to Keep Your Computer in Tip-Top Shape

In this modern age we keep in touch with relatives either through chat or emails, search for information about anything under the earth and sometimes out of the earth as well. We also do business proposals and communications with associates and of late do shopping and pay utility bills sitting conveniently at home. This is possible with the help of our computer and an internet connection. So it is important that we take care of our computer to work efficiently and without any hitches. Listed here are 7 tips to keep your computer running in tip-top shape.

1 Value in Brand: When you depend on the computer to do lot of your personal as well as business communications, it is of paramount importance that you invest in a good computer to do that. There are assembled sets available at a price lower than the quality branded computers. But in the long run they will make you incur more money on servicing and repairs due to the low quality parts used in them. Invest on a Good Brand for reliability and even if something goes wrong, the warranty will protect you from added expenditure.

2 Software: There is a tendency to rely upon counterfeit operating systems to save some money. This will prove as a wrong decision on the long run. Information technology being on a fast track, there are newer versions and updates to the existing versions released on a regular basis. Only genuine software is capable of updating them online. Further, there is no guarantee that the counterfeit will work without trouble. Imagine a situation when you have to reach an important client to close a deal but your computer crashes. Insist on OEM software.

3 Antivirus: Computer and Internet is regularly targeted by hackers to steal important data and details like username and password to use them for anti social activities. You can lose your money and credibility in that computer if your online bank account is compromised. Install the latest antivirus program on your computer and update them on a regular basis to stay ahead of the hackers and have peace of mind.

4 Power supply: As it is food for man, a computer to function at its best, require a continuous and steady supply of power. In case you area is prone for black-outs or power cuts valuable data can be lost when the power is lost abruptly while you are working on an important work. Therefore it is advisable to ensure a steady supply of power through a UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply).

5 Qualified Personnel: The computer being a sensitive gadget, operations of them should be done by qualified personnel. The computer should be operated only by those who are aware of the basic functioning of the machine. Further, when there is a malfunction rather than fidgeting with the machine, it should be referred to the service personnel.

6 Regular Service: It is advisable to enter into an AMC (annual maintenance contract) with the supplier of the computer to ensure timely service and to avoid extra expenditure in way of repairing charges. Regular service will keep your computer in tip-top condition.

7 Beware of spam: One should be careful not to open spam emails which may contain viruses that will infect the computer. With the hackers also getting wiser day by day, any such email with "smart virus" in them can surpass the antivirus program installed. It will infect the system and important data will be lost.

First Generation iPod nano Replacement Program

Apple has sent out emails to registered owners of 1st generation iPod nanos. It is said that certain iPod nanos produced between September 2005 and January 2006 might overheat and be unsafe. This is a manufacturing defect made by a single supplier. And the likelihood of problems increases as the model ages. As a result, Apple launched the first generation iPod replacement program.

The safety risk is caused by the battery overheating. Actually, there have been some cases of the iPod nano's battery overheating in the past. The issue turned up previously in 2009. Apple had two cases that they burned the users. And in 2008, the Japanese government said that there are three fires were caused in Japan because of faulty 1st generation nano batteries.

If you are not sure about the legitimacy of the emails you received, you can check the link in the email. If you click the link, you will be directed to the replacement program for earlier models of the iPod nanos from the support site of apple and there are also Apple's exchange and repair extension program at the apple support site.

In addition, the main content of the email is as following. Apple has determined that, in very rare cases, the batteries in the iPod nano (1st gen) may overheat and pose a safety risk. Affected iPod nanos were sold between September 2005 and December 2006. This issue has been traced to a single battery supplier that produced batteries with a manufacturing defect. While the possibility of an incident is rare, the likelihood increases as the battery ages. Apple recommends that you stop using your iPod nano (1st gen) and follow the process noted below to order a replacement unit, free of charge. And attention must be paid on that this battery issue is specific to 1st generation and does not affect any other iPod.

As far as the program process is concerned, you firstly may order a replacement unit via the web. Your serial number will be checked to verify that it is eligible for this program. You will receive a replacement unit approximately 6 weeks after apple receive your current iPod nano (1st gen). If you have a personalized one, you will receive a non-personalized replacement. Make sure to use iTunes to back up any data on your current one before sending it in for a replacement unit.

But how to identify an iPod nano (1st gen)? Firstly, it has a black or white plastic front and a silver metal back, while later models have a metal front and back. If you need assistance with placing an order, you can visit an Apple Retail Store or an Apple Authorized Service Provider (AASP) and bring yours with you for serial number validation. Furthermore, your replacement iPod product is warranted to be free from defects for 90 days from the date of service.

Network Technology Improvements

To benefit from the central resources and communications, a remote user usually has at least one wide area connection to the central site. The bandwidth requirements for the wide area connection depend on the kind of network services that the employers want to use in their job. If remote employees are part of the IP telephony network, a call manager device may need to be placed remotely. The network architect must think through whether the remote users need access to video resources concurrently. This kind of access will impact bandwidth. For instance, streaming video may be used for a business meeting. These design decisions involve evaluating the bandwidth at the central site wide area connection as well.

Selecting a Permanent or On Demand link

The net architect chooses whether it is superior to use permanent or on-demand links to the central location. The architect works with the client to consider security, cost as well as availability requirements.

A high-speed Internet link is a good choice for outworkers. It is easy to install in remote offices and is also available in many hotels. Occasionally, asynchronous dialup links are the one and only remote access solution accessible to travelers. Personnel who travel can use a laptop with a modem and the current telephone net to connect to the enterprise.

Wide area network connections at teleworker sites can use the following technologies: Asynchronous dialup, ISDN BRI, Cable modems, DSL, Wireless and satellite, VPN, Traffic Flow.

Traffic flow on a net is analogous to the car traffic flow on metropolitan streets. Vehicles move from one place to another throughout the city. Data traffic created from applications moves from one place in the net to another. The route is usually defined by a Net Layer TCP/IP address. Depending on the quality of service policies configured in the net, the route can be influenced by additional factors like Transport Layer source and destination port numbers. Let's say, a host sends a request for a shared folder to a server in one traffic flow. The server examines the request and if the user has the expected permissions, returns the data to the user in another traffic flow.

Traffic Control

Without a method of traffic control, like traffic signs or alternative roads to retain the flow, traffic on the highways becomes congested. Nets also need a path to regulate traffic flows. Quality of service mechanisms are created to guarantee the smooth traffic flow of application data traffic on the net.


Quick Utilities For Remote Support

To start a business one must be social and public as dealing with the outside world is must in a business. As technology is majorly taking part in every business irrespective of the sector, you have to arrange a lot of IT infrastructure for this. The infrastructure may have computers, fax machines, printers, routers and other necessary networking devices. To manage all these things effectively a suitable IT infrastructure management should be performed.

The experienced and expert technical staff; with the help of remote access software help the people who do not have technical knowledge and support them remotely. They provide their assistance with the help of emails and via phone calls. The use of the remote PC support products is very extensive and they help in getting the root cause of the issue. The modern solutions helps the user in monitoring the network and take the administration of the computer system that may be situated in the local network or even on web also.

We find different PC support tools and solutions in the market offered by most of the IT support firms that are available according to our requirements. They can be chosen for some free trials or can directly be hired on a monthly subscription basis. They are available for home users also and they can take the trial versions also. These can be used like the windows remote desktop connection also. But the free wares have fewer features enabled as compared to the paid version.

The PC control suite makes the work easier by helping in providing the technical assistance to the users and customers. For the network administrators doing the task of fixing the issues related to networks and software updates, all the work can be done sitting on a remote location with the help of the remote support software. It is fast and easy and different other nodes in the network can be accessed and the problem can be fixed.

With this it also proves to be a good tutor as well. For example if the user of any software or program want to know about any option he is unable to find as you can easily access his PC and can show on his PC about what he wants. You can easily provide tuition remotely about any tool or service to the subscriber. The remote assistance suites have text and voice chat option so that the users get quick help in need. This also helps the business owners to provide guidance to their customers about their products and services.

Ankur Kumar Batwani is working as a Digital Marketing Executive in ProVal Technologies. It is providing remote infrastructure management services and MSP noc support to its clients and work as their own IT department. It gives a free and relaxing atmosphere by taking charge of the technical issues proactively.


Satellite Technology: Providing Convenience in the Modern World

Satellites are mainly used in communications. They revolve around the earth, receiving and relaying signals from different location points. Without them, the world might not be enjoying ease in communicating.

The first satellite was used for astronomical purposes. Sputnik 1, the first artificial satellite, has been launched to collect and send important data through radio signals about the situation of the earth's atmosphere, the ionosphere, and the earth's orbital changes. Presently, astronomical satellites are used to capture images outside the earth's surface using different sensors like x-rays, gamma rays, infrared, and ultraviolet. In fact, the most popular and the most powerful telescope today, the Hubble Space telescope, is actually a satellite.

Satellites are also used in identifying weather conditions in different parts of the earth. They collect and send information about cloud formations and cloud movements. Weather satellites have been used for several decades. Without them, people might still be relying on primitive methods in identifying weather conditions. These satellites are also used in capturing information on ocean currents, storms, fires, and volcanic activities.

Military communication and intelligence gathering depend on satellites. With satellite technology, global connectivity is achieved even though military men are located in remote areas. Military satellites are also used as observation satellites deployed to spy and capture images of different locations around the globe.

Without high-technology satellites, there might be no navigation systems that will be used today. Global positioning systems (GPS) that are being used by the military and the civilians alike are dependent on the information sent by the satellites. The GPS is initially intended to be used for military purposes, but it was eventually introduced to consumers for different applications. These satellites have circuit boards with high aspect ratio holes to send accurate images and data to GPS users.

Television systems also depend on the power of satellites. Geostationary satellites are made with high frequency materials so that they can send videos and images to television users in numerous locations. The invention of these satellites made it possible for the television industry to achieve significant growth. They seem stationary, but they actually rotate with the earth. They are seemingly stationary so that they can send data to fixed antennas more efficiently.

What to Do When Your Computer Has a Problem and How to Describe the Issue to an IT Technician

Viruses, malware, software and hardware problems are all reasons you may need to visit or hire a computer repair or Information Technology (IT) technician. It is important when doing so to be able to accurately communicate the issues that you are having with your system. This short article will help you communicate the key points when you need to speak with a technician as well as show some of the benefits of repairing versus replacing your system.

An important piece of information to keep in mind when you have computer problems is the time you have invested in the computer system setting things up and making it your own. All too often instead of repairing the valuable computer systems that you have become familiar with and that work well, the thought may cross your mind to replace the system due to cost. This is a very false mindset, in fact in most cases the system can be repaired and upgraded to surpass the original speeds of the system and run all of the latest software while having less of an impact on the environment and saving you money!

Before calling to hire or bringing your system to a repair technician gather up the information that you may need to describe the problem. This information includes but is not limited to:

    Error messages on the screen
    Whether the system is booting into the operating system (usually Windows)
    If you hear any strange noises coming from the computer system itself
    The last things that happened or were performed on the computer system before the issue began to occur
    If there is any unrecognized program that has appeared and what the name is.

It is also a wonderful idea to try to remember when the issues started to occur and if there were any strange things that happened leading up to the problem that you are currently experiencing. For example if the computer started running slow, if you had a strange message show up while you were doing something in particular, a program you normally use did something strange or had an error message appear, etc.

Another thing that will save time and money is to give an accurate history of the problems with the computer system and what repairs you may have attempted or had a friend or acquaintance perform for you to resolve the issue. In general the more information that you can provide to assist your computer technician will provide you with a better, faster, and more cost-effective solution to the issues you are having.


Technology Electronics and How It Works

In the area of technology electronics, you will learn the basics of electricity and electronics. When studying this vast field you will learn about all kinds of things from circuitry to microprocessors. Electronics is the branch of technology and engineering that deals with circuits and active live electrical components. The ability of electronic components to behave as switches has been the reason that processing of digital information has become possible.

Most electronic devices today use semi-conductor components. Electronic engineering involves solving issues relating to the construction of electronic circuits. Most circuits can be divided into two groups: analog and digital. When studying electronic technology, you will learn about these two groups in great depth. Some devices consist of circuitry that involves both groups. Learning to differentiate between the two is an important aspect of electronic technology. After learning these essentials, you will be able to install home security systems, troubleshoot computers and install phones and so much more.

Technology and electronics experts
Electrical technologies specialize in backgrounds based on transformers, substations and generators. Special emphasis is placed on distribution and bulk power of these substations. These electrical services utilize the expertise of a staff that assembles and tests power transformers. This team of experts always assembles according to specific manufacturing standards. You can rely on their knowledge and professionalism to ensure you the highest of standards.

These technicians combine age old standards and modern technology to provide premier electrical services to their customers. They always have the customer's satisfaction at the forefront of their mind, and by delivering on their promise and the customer's request they can do so in an efficient manner.

High service standard and components
Electronics is simply a branch of science that deals with circuits and components electronically. Digital processing is only possible because electronic devices make any kind of transfer of devices that is kind of like a switch action, possible.

It is very distinct in the fact that it makes use of very specific features like switches components, generation, relays and transformers. Even though the science and the makeup of technology electronics seems super complicated, it is truthfully very straightforward and not as difficult as people try to make it appear.

If you are interested in finding a career or hobby that captures your fascination and is fun to learn about as well, why not try out a very rewarding and intriguing field of electronics technology.

Technology, Networking and Security in 2012

The computer: the gadget that changed our view of the world around us, the information which we are surrounded by, and the way we experience events, either directly or directly. The amount of information available on the internet is larger than any library in the world, and we can get all this information through a few simple clicks. The amount of different programs is also more than impressive, and today it is no longer a question of how to obtain an application, but which applications do we want from all those we have to choose from.

In the twenty-first century, we are entering a period in which data is transmitted wirelessly. Technology, like the rest of the IT industry, is developing rapidly and has come up with new standards and adopted more modern methods that enable greater wireless speeds and ranges while costing much less. In the not too distant future, we can expect a lot more wireless systems in every location, connecting the home, office, and even large factories. Wireless network technologies represent a new form of network communication will be even more advanced in the future. These networks of the future will outpace today's wired network systems both in terms of speed and security.

As the new networks are constantly being upgraded, the equipment becomes more sophisticated. The software and security systems are also progressing, although the threat to security still persists everywhere around us. The Internet is a medium that allows anyone to go from appearing to be an ordinary web surfer to a hacker in just a few moments. These hackers can jeopardize very important information and even destroy someone's life.

The prices of laptops with wireless cards are now very affordable and are constantly falling; hence, it is very easy to find wireless networks. Of course, this means it's also easy for attackers to find a way to get into the system and steal someone else's Internet traffic, or, more importantly, data. Various studies related to the security of wireless systems has shown that almost fifty percent of users are on unprotected networks, which confirms the fact that users are not aware or educated of the dangers of wireless networks.

Another concern is the fact that many small businesses are be completely unprotected, which malicious users can very well use to their advantage, and the owners of these systems are not even aware that the customer information and confidential documents can leave the company through this unlocked door.

However, even using a system of protection for your computer is not hundred percent secure, but using a system with an incredibly strong encryption system may significantly slow down the network, a trade-off many businesses and users won't or can't make. We can only hope that future standards will bring faster and more secure systems in which users will be able to rely on the system's protection and really use wireless networks without worry. Safety is important, and the only right decision for your computer is to secure your network. Wireless networking has become part of our lives, but again, we must be careful about what and with whom we share our information.

J2ME Developers and Programmers: The Mobile Game Industry Winners

If you think that current gaming technology is hot then, as they say, "you ain't seen nothing yet."

Wireless or mobile gaming is the future and the future is now. 2004 saw an explosion in mobile gaming technology which redefined the mobile phone as a gaming device. Handsets capable of displaying graphics equal in quality to the GameStations and GameCubes of the 1990's were available everywhere, and game developers like Synergetix and It's Alive! were on everyone's radar screen.

Now, just a year later, Real-time multiplayer games, some offering high-quality, 3D graphics, can be played over most telecom networks at prices that won't put you in the poorhouse.

Never one to be too far behind the bleeding edge, even the Adult Entertainment industry is turning out PDA and cell phone-based games including gambling programs and a variety of role-based and action games where lots of sexy women end up losing their clothes. The graphics are, shall we say, stunning.

A peek under the technology hood

While the average gamer may be ignorant of the technology that is driving the wireless gaming industry, the geeks among us are very familiar with terms like J2ME, Symbian, and Brew; the development and distribution platforms upon which the wireless gaming industry has built its success.

J2ME (Java 2 Platform, Micro Edition) is a derivative of Sun Microcomputer's JAVA development platform. J2ME is specifically designed to build applications that run on portable and wireless devices including cell phones and PDAs. It's also finding wide acceptance among companies that develop applications for TV boxes and many of the new embedded devices which are flooding both the consumer and industrial markets.

BREW, another development language from QUALCOMM, provides a development platform that's also suited for the wireless industry. BREW's claim to fame is that fact that the developer can write device-independent applications which do not need to be recompiled for different phone manufacturers.

SYMBIAN is probably the most commonly used OS in the game-enabled wireless telephone market. Embraced by all major phone manufacturers, SYMBIAN supports J2ME, BREW, C++, and JAVA.

So, what does the future hold for this high-tech blockbuster that's still in its infancy?

According to industry analysts Frost & Sullivan, the "global mobile game industry, which generated US$436.4 million in 2002, will balloon to US$9.34 billion by 2008." Asia is at the epicenter of the wireless gaming explosion where an estimated 500 million people are wireless Internet subscribers and two out of five are wireless gamers.

Some gaming fortune tellers predict that the convergence of GPS and wireless gaming technology will result in live-action and role playing games that will adapt themselves to the player's physical location and include geographic-specific scenarios that change as the player moves to new locations.

Judging by the progress that's been made in the last two years alone, the future of wireless gaming may be the most revenue and employment-generating technology of the 21st century.

What's Happened to My Computer?

As you get older your bodily functions and your brain start to slow down. I guess it's a way of preparing for retirement! Just as Einstein might have confirmed, this drop off in pace is relative. As the body slows, so all around it seems faster. Children run around like sparrows flitting from bough to bough. Cars, hours, trains and days move along ever faster.

Now, although I'm only in my middle age, a curious things has started to happen. Perhaps I'm going completely ga-ga, but as the years have passed, there are certain things that have not speeded up at all - in fact they have slowed down. I am referring to anything electronic.

Back in the last millennium, I used to have a Dos-based personal computer. When you switched it on, it just came on. OK the only software that loaded was the on-board dos (disc operating system) program, but loading a spreadsheet from a floppy disc would only take a few seconds - and I was up and running. Nowadays my PC needs plenty of notice. I press the button and then go and make a coffee. I think this should be mandatory. The PCs should be programmed so that, as soon as you press the "on" button, it emits the message: "now go and make yourself some sweet coffee" (on 2nd thoughts, that could add another 2 minutes to its start-up time, so forget it). Oh, and what about my printer? What happened there? That's even worse. Printing the first document of the day is a major event. I am inclined to invite the neighbours round for tea and cakes and have a little printer-starting party while we wait.

This problem is not just confined to my computer. My TV seems to take forever to get started. Even my radio takes longer to turn on than it used to. Down at my local grocery store, passing products through the checkout seems to take longer as well. When I pay by credit card, sometimes a whole queue of shoppers is held up while the system calls up the bank for authorisation (perhaps it's just me - perhaps I have a guilty face).

Have I mentioned the car yet? No? Well this is another victim of progress. I used to turn a key and it would simply start. Nowadays a multitude of on-board systems are activated and I am asked to "wait please" by a friendly voice.

Yes I am being simplistic - yes I know that some of these gadgets can do a lot more than they used to. However, am I being completely unreasonable? I still do the same things with my work PC as I did 30 years ago. I use the same basic functions: word processor, spreadsheet and database. I know it's boring, but that's all I want and all I have ever wanted, so the extra overhead today's PCs carry is largely wasted on me, I'm afraid. Admittedly I have a PC for home use on which I play music or watch DVDs, but I was perfectly able to listen to music on CDs before my all-singing and dancing PC came alone (or cassettes and vinyl if we go back far enough). I could also watch films on video.

OK, so I've probably gone too far and left my argument a little unbalanced. I'll draw back a little. I'll accept PCs with all the graphics, security checks and other gizmos. I'll also accept cars, radios, cameras and TVs with on-board micro-chips that are designed to add to my experience of these devices. But please please, can someone work on the problem of making them work as soon as you turn them on - just like in the old days before progress came and slowed everything down.

There are some electrical things that still work right away - as soon as they are plugged in. For example, electric lights...unless, of course, you use the long-life bulbs. Ah, I've just thought of one: the kettle. That surely comes on as soon as you plug it in, doesn't it? And there is something else: one product that performs better than ever and still comes on as soon as it's plugged in - and that is our very own Insectocutor Fly Killer Unit. Insectocutor have been manufacturing fly killer machines since the 1960's. They are robust and built to last. They work by attracting flies using a uv bulb. The flies are then killed by coming into contact with an electrified grid or a very strong glue board. For example, the IND41 is an industrial fly killer that can cover a range of 350 square metres. The good news is that Insectocutor make them and the television and PC manufacturers do not. You can just imagine the flies queuing up to get killed, kind of circling around the room in airport stack style, while the machine takes its time to warm up, saying "go and help yourself to some sweet coffee".


Japanese Developing Sex Robots

What propels human innovation? Well, we know where the funding comes from. We know that funding comes when a Return on Investment is available. What do people spend money on? Well, think of Maslow's hierarchy of needs. People want to maintain self preservation, so you will find the greatest technological money flows in those things, which protect the sanctity of life; things such as Health Care and Medical advances, security and military. People also wish respect from their fellow man. They want to look good; thus you will find consumer items such as make-up, clothing, sports cars, etc. Humans also want companionship and entertainment and so we see advances in movie special effects, computer games and now the Japanese are developing human female robots. Today they advertise them as maids, receptionists and servers. But in the true spirit of Kama Sutra, you can bet that those Japanese robotic engineers will soon be designing Blonde Hair Blue Eyed sex robots to serve their will.

These Japanese scientists have unveiled the most human-looking robot to date, well at least in the public domain. Secret research is being done now which looks towards the future to build robots so real they will fool humans, in other words they maybe sitting next to you and you would never even know it. The Japanese scientists call their new robot android Repliee Q1 Expo. She flutters her eyelids in normal human increments, looks like she is breathing and moves her hands just like a human would. This robot has over 42 actuators. But indeed, this is merely the first step in human type robotics.

We all know that the Internet is used most in recreational use for surfing websites, such as pornography, chat, online dating and personal communications of the sort. It should be obvious that the near future of robotic androids will be used for sexual pleasure. Isaac Asimov and others have cited this as the most probable use. Not only have science fiction authors put these futuristic predicts forth but Hollywood has as well in several movies such as "A.I. Artificial Intelligence."

Using tactile sensors and the latest Haptics research the Japanese scientists are well on their way to the development of their next marketable technology. The Repliee Q1 Expo has 42 actuators, but some of the MIT robots, will mimic the human nerves in the hand already have 250 sensors. New skin technologies will allow the robots to have real human skin grown in petri dishes and these might also be incorporated in the sexual revolution of robots. Want to learn more about Repliee Q1 Expo.

Fuel Cell Robots Are Here

Imagine going to a Wal-Mart and instead of a car or pickup with a rotating orange light on top a little robot scurries across he parking lot with an orange hat. As it moves it leaks water on the ground, not very much, but just enough to look like it is leaking a little. What is that water trail? It is vapor or exhaust, the exhaust of a fuel cell running an electric motor. The Robot video tapes the parking lot, patrols the red zones and attempts to save your brand new SUV from runaway shopping cart therapy?

It rolls by and says; "Thank you for shopping at Wal-mart" as it patrols. It looks for all kinds of stuff such as babies in cars with the windows rolled up or cars doing burnouts in the parking lot as it maneuvers to get it all on tape and send the video feed in real time to the local police department. The more energy it uses the more vapor water is left behind. The fuel cells generate electricity to power up an electric motor and the surveillance video cameras and of course the robots brains. A chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen is making all this happen using the fuel cell technologies. Occasionally as the robot moves over a speed bump you might see a little vapor or fog poof out the back, but all in all this is an alternative fueled robot, which is environmentally friendly.

In fact this is not science fiction, as researchers in Tokyo have created such a robot and it is ready for sale now. Imagine Wal-Marts cost savings by letting go if its security guard contracts and greeters at its 8,000 outlets. Surely from an economies of scale scenario this is better than RFID tags on its pallets. One company; Sohgo Security Services Co. is working on a robot which can go one week without recharge and they are looking at more than just security. Receptionists, car wash personal, warehouse labor and mos manufacturing jobs will soon be things of the past. Robot gardeners, landscapers, pool cleaning, house maids are nearly all coming to market now and the mass marketing potential of a strong US based middle class has many a consumer willing to put their money where they desires are. Sohgo has a robot they call C-4, Guard Robo and today it goes 2.5 hours on a lead battery, similar to those ride on wheel chairs. It can work as a receptionist while charging and then do a perimeter sweep and go back and charge again.

The Robot is completely wire-less sending back a complete video and alarms signals. Robots, which often use ultrasound waves sensors, lidar and infrared to work, do not need actual light and if made quiet enough can scare the ever living bejesus out of an intruder. With all the work at the major robotic research Universities, robots can have faces, body parts and communicate as they patrol with the humans they interact with.

The future is here, you are just not paying attention to all the latest developments.

Intelligence Way is Artificial

Curiosity has always eluded man. This has led to many inventions and discoveries. One of the finest examples of man's inventions is computer. Automatically a picture comes to our mind. They are able to do huge computations, repetitive and boring jobs that took us long time.
Exactly what the computer provides is not the ability to be rigid or unthinking. But rather to behave conditionally; sometimes this way, sometimes that, as appropriate. This means applying knowledge to action. Believe it or not, even here, attitude matters the most. We ask these machines to do the job that we already know and do. But we want them to do faster and more accurately.

The irony is we humans are trying to produce intelligence through artificial ways. Its just the science of producing machines (making machines) that have intelligence and a bit of common sense. It's about how you program a system so that it behaves like humans. They can think, process information, can take decisions and act accordingly. Yes, we prefer illusions to reality.

History could be associated with early age Egyptians but this got its formal name 'Artificial Intelligence' at Dartmouth Conference, Hanover, New Hampshire in 1956 under the guidance of John McCarthy. And the world came to know about the level of human thinking. Many things followed. LISP or list processing, the language used for AI was developed by John McCarthy in 1958. In 1970, world got its first expert system in the field of medical sciences for detecting blood infections, MYCIN. Prolog or programming in logic, one of the AI's main languages was developed by Japanese in 1972. One big thing that really amazed world happened in 1991 when a human chess master was defeated by a computer.

And rest they say is history...

There are various fields where it has found a good response. The fields include:

* Game playing - Program a system for playing games like chess.

* Expert Systems - Create a knowledge base, help systems to take decisions based on their experience (knowledge in base).

* Human Sensory Systems - Emulate human senses of voice and vision.

* Neural networks - Attempt to reproduce connections (neurons) that exist in human brain and thus simulate intelligence.

* Robotics - A popular field. Program a system in such a way that it is able to see, understand and react to the external stimuli.

The ongoing success of adding intelligence to machines so that we fail to distinguish whether it's a machine or a human being seems assured. However, the goal to duplicate human intelligence or the idea to create a clone of humans in intelligence is a bit controversial. We are successful in creating robots (machines) that are able to come up with answers in definite situations. But still not able to duplicate our daily circumstances. We face uncertain situations. To adjust to these, we require thinking and common sense. Thinking is a set of mental processes that go on in an unconscious mind. We do that deliberately also. Question still remains. If we are able to add this thinking in a deliberate way, can we ever achieve that higher level of sub - consciousness?

Yes, sometimes things should be left aside for time to answer. So can a computer be intelligent, think, understand and act at the same time, should not be questioned now?

Choosing a Clone Or a Robot Dog?

Our pets do not live forever and unfortunately they die after becoming so close to us. There are several companies now producing artificial intelligent robotic dogs for our much needed companionship. Within the next decade or so, they will become so real you may even forget they are robots. In fact that maybe just as well in case you space out and forget to feed them. In the movie; "A.I. Artificial Intelligence" the robotic teddy bear was a "Super Toy." In the movie; "iRobot" the robotic trucks delivered robotic dogs and robotic people as friends and servants of mankind. There is only one problem with this scenario for a possible future; Will we want robotic pets or will we want cloned pets?

Both options are nearly upon us. Many Japanese companies are producing robotic dogs now, and they are getting smarter or better equipped with robotic artificial intelligence each year.

But nipping on the heels of this new artificial intelligence and in competition to be man's bestest buddy, is the latest exploits of cloning. If your dog is growing old and weak you simply clone it and then the new dog takes over as a puppy of your current dog when it dies. In its old age your faithful dog has a companion too, a younger version of itself as a friend. Sounds to Sci-Fi to you; it shouldn't. Scientists in South Korea have ruccessfully cloned a dog, Afghan hound. Of course this first issue did not come without trial and error. Of course to get Snuppy, the first cloned dog it took many years of research and a lot of tries.

S.N.U.P.Py stands for Seoul National University Pampered Puppy. It has not been more than a few years since the first sheep clone; "Dolly." You may not know this but since Dolly, scientists and researchers have cloned a cat, goat, cow, mouse, pig, rabbit, horse, deer, mule and gaur (a wild ugly ox). Folks the commercial pet cloning industry is about to take off. Right now the cost would be about $50,000 but researchers and market analysts predict that price will come down significantly. And it better to compete with the ever increasing viability of artificial intelligent pet models, which require no food and do not leave anything extra to pick up around the yard. Think on this.

Review of the Apple iPod Shuffle

Introducing the mini iPod Mini: the iPod Shuffle

The iPod shuffle is basically a smaller version of Apple's extremely popular iPod and iPod Mini. The shuffle is much smaller than the iPod (about the same size and weight as a pack of gum), but holds fewer songs as a result. You can now purchase either a 512MB iPod shuffle, or one with a full 1GB. Keep in mind that the regular iPod can now hold up to 40GB, so it has quite a bit more storage. The shuffle though is designed to be a super-mobile, light-weight device that you can wear around your neck and take just about anywhere. You are limited to about 10 CDs worth of songs that play in a random order on default. Below you will find some more information about the device, including a manufacturers description and review.

Information Direct From Apple


Time to mix things up. Meet iPod shuffle, the unpredictable new iPod. What will it play next? Can it read your mind? Can it read your moods? Load it up. Put it on. See where it takes you.

Random is the New Order

Welcome to a life less orderly. As official soundtrack to the random revolution, the iPod Shuffle Songs setting takes you on a unique journey through your music collection -- you never know what's around the next tune. Meet your new ride. More roadster than Rolls, iPod shuffle rejects routine by serving up your favorite songs in a different order every time. Just plug iPod shuffle into your computer's USB port, let iTunes Autofill it with up to 120 songs and get a new experience with every connection. The trail you run every day looks different with an iPod shuffle. Daily gridlock feels less mundane when you don't know what song will play next. iPod shuffle adds musical spontaneity to your life. Lose control. Love it.

DJ Your Day

If you favor cycling to a hip-hop soundtrack and snowboarding to a little electronica, Autofill iPod shuffle from a specific iTunes Playlist and roll. Download an album from the iTunes Music Store and listen to it in order before you Shuffle it into your collection. Or just drag and drop individual songs from iTunes onto iPod shuffle. With Play in Order mode, you manage the music. If things take a turn for the predictable, never fear. Turn iPod shuffle over, flip the slider to Shuffle and mix on the go.

Goes with Everything

iPod shuffle weighs as little as a car key and makes a tuneful fashion statement. Just throw the included lanyard around your neck and take a walk. Or run. Or ride. There's nowhere your skip-free iPod shuffle can't go, and with up to 12 hours of continuous playback time, it keeps going as long as you do. A neat little cap protects the USB connector, and those signature white earbud headphones tell the world you love to listen in style. You can even make your iPod shuffle splash-proof, arm-hugging, and longer-running with optional accessories. Ready for anything from a Transatlantic flight to a weekend at the beach, the iPod shuffle makes the perfect, low-maintenance pal.

Touch of Genius

Good things really do come in small packages. The controls on the iPod shuffle feel as intuitive and easy to use as those on every iPod model. Play, pause, skip, repeat, shuffle and hold at the touch of a thumb: The circular, ergonomic controls and one-click slider make it simple to listen without looking.

The Music Store in Your House

Add to the iPod shuffle mix with songs downloaded from the iTunes Music Store. Browse and preview more than one million songs, then buy what you want, 24-7, from the comfort of your Mac or PC. With the iTunes Music Store and iPod shuffle, you'll always have music at hand...literally. The smallest iPod yet, iPod shuffle fits neatly in the palm of your hand and looks just plain neat around your neck. Prepare to make friends and influence people when you wear it biking, hiking, snowboarding, dog-walking and anywhere else that could use a great soundtrack.

That includes off-the-beaten-path spots where you may need to play, pause, move back, skip forward, shuffle and turn up the volume without looking. Luckily, iPod shuffle pays due respect to its elders with a thumb-friendly, circular control pad that puts the 'go' in ergonomic.

Plug-and-Playlists

iPod shuffle makes syncing a piece of cake. Cupcake, even. Use the optional Dock to connect to your computer or just plug iPod shuffle directly into a USB port on any computer. Then drag and drop individual songs, Autofill your favorite playlists or Autofill your iPod shuffle with a random sampling from your music library. Since iPod shuffle automatically charges while syncing, it stays ready for your next adventure.

Our First Look at the Shuffle

First of all, the iPod shuffle is a very simple looking device that follows the same style as the famed iPod. It really is the size of a decent pack of gum, easily worn around the neck as Apple proposes, or in your pocket. The connection to your computer could not be easier; all you have to do is hook it into your usb port like you would a regular usb memory stick. You can then copy onto the shuffle any songs or groups of songs you would like. For those of you who already own and iPod, you will be happy that the device takes AAC files, as well as MP3. Once on the shuffle, the songs begin to play out in random order. If you want to hear a particular song, you have to keep hitting forward until you reach it - there is no display on the device to show you what songs are coming up. This is one of the very few downsides to the music player.

The music sounds really good, even with the headphones it comes with. The music did not skip once, substantiating Apple's anti-skip claim. It would have been nice to see an FM tuner feature, but then again, it was designed to be a simply device without the bells and whistles that make other similar players $100 more expensive. Also, the battery life is just about 12 hours, which is about 5 hours less than the industry average. Most of the time this is not a problem, however, since it is so easy to recharge (it even recharges while you are loading songs onto it).

The fact that the songs play randomly on the device is going to be seen differently by different people. It can be somewhat liberating not to have to worry about which song you will hear next, or in what order you will hear a group of songs. In fact, it's just like mindlessly listening to the radio, except that you only hear songs you like, and there are no commercials - two really good things! If you want more control over your songs, or you really need to see where you are in your play list, then a regular iPod may be the better choice. But for those who want a simple, light-weight, spontaneous alternative to the iPod, the shuffle is just about the best choice.


The Truth About Printer Paper

Contrary to popular belief, the quality of your printer paper can have a serious impact on the quality of your printer output. You can buy the best printer in the word - feed it lousy paper, and you'll get lousy results. Most consumers just purchase the cheapest paper they can find at Staples, which is normally just copier paper. Sure, this will work fine for text print outs. Try printing images or pictures on this paper. - not very crisp, right?

Image quality on your print outs is largely dependent on the brightness of the paper and the absorption capacity of the paper. Smooth paper is best for brightness since it reflects the most light directly back to the eye. Coarser paper tends to diffuse light in all over, really weakening the amount of light that makes it back to your eye. The end result is an image with less brilliance.

The second factor that plays a huge role in paper quality is the absorption potential of the paper. With cheap paper you tend to see ink bleed or run. Rather than nice tight graphics, you get blurred images. Coated paper is really the way to go here. It prevents the paper from absorbing the ink. For true, high resolution photo printing, coated paper is required. You'd be surprised how much the paper actually has to do with the end resolution of the print out. The right paper can sometime double the resolution of your print out. So for a few extra pennies, consider better stock.


Computer Controlled LED Signs

Most LED signs available today can be controlled by the operator. Computer Controlled LED signs are controlled by the operator. These are the most upcoming technology that is being spread all over the world in speed.

Computer controlled LED signs use the LED technology stands for light emitting diodes and produces very bright light while at the same time being energy efficient as they do not burn off heat as a wasted by product like incandescent lighting. These signs are used as indoor and outdoor outlets in world's most cosmopolitan cities.

Computer controlled LED signs are employed by many industrial places and even unlikely places too. The main advantage here is that one LED sign can be used as multi talking functionality as computer controlled featured is available which controls the messaging and information. So the operator can choice from number of text and languages, again user defined message can be transmitted to broadcast to the world.

One important feature is the memory capabilities of computer controlled LED signs. While it is common to have electronic displays save 10,000 characters, some models can even save 150,000 characters at a time.

Jayex Technology is successful in proving that Computer Controlled LED can be equipped and controlled easily and with no technical expertise. LED signs can now be seen hanging above some of the world's most cosmopolitan cities in flashy advertising billboards.

These computer controlled LED signs can be controlled from remote location, in advantage. Infra red keyboard or windows based software are used to update the signs, they can now be updated with other means also.

Moreover, fiber optic cable, telephone modems, pagers and certain cellular phone technologies can also be utilized in computer controlled LED signs.

Wireless is Great, but How Do You Make It SAFE?

It's common nowadays to see people sitting in a park and computing, or at their local Starbucks, tapping away on their keyboards. At home, people are taking advantage of the freedom from cables and wires that a wireless network brings.

But along with that freedom come dangers. After all, wireless is really just radio waves, which don't just go between your laptop and your network, they go all over the place, just waiting to be plucked from the ether by someone with just the right device and bad intentions.

This Special Report covers home users. Small Businesses face increased risks that come with an increased number of users with increased access to the businesses' hardware.

The dangers fall into 2 categories - Data Security and Bandwidth Stealing both of which can be solved with the same steps.

At first there was only one provision for restricting wireless access, WEP (Wireless Equivalent Privacy). WEP, however, has many vulnerabilities

Now there's also WAP (Wireless Application Protocol), which is newer technology and more secure, if you follow the basic steps.

As with almost any technology, the landscape is always changing. New security systems challenge the hackers. They respond with new hacks, which are respsponded to with new security. It's a never-ending dance.

However, by taking the following simple steps you will greatly reduce your vulnerability, at least for now. Consult the documentation that came with your wireless network hardware and software to see exactly how to implement these steps.
1. Don't use the default Administrator Password 
This is the most-often ignored and most basic step. Your Wireless Access Point is shipped with either a default administrative password, or no password at all. Be sure to change this before you you use your WAP for the first time. It should be a password that you will not forget, but would not be easy to guess. One easy trick is to substitute numbers for letters, for instance the number 3 for the letter E, and the number 7 for the letter T. So the word "gadget" becomes gadg37. Of course you will want a longer password, because the longer the password, the harder to crack. And remember to use boh UPPER and lower case. Most of the default administrative passwords are well known to the hackers. After all, all they would have to do is check the default password on THEIR wireless devices! 

2. Replace your default WAP's SSID 
Your Wireless Access Point will have an SSID - a "name" that was given to it at the factory, typically "Linksys" or "default." Obviously, these are well known in the hacker community, and the fact that most wireless networks have never had this ID changed makes them more vulnerable.

3. Stop Broadcasting Your SSID 
By their very nature, wireless networks broadcast their availability so that wireless cards in devices can find them. But just because it broadcasts it's presence does NOT mean it has to also broadcast it's SSID. For a hacker to connect to your network, he has to know your SSID. There's no sense in just giving it to him!

4. Encrypt your transmissions 
Right out of the box, your wireless network will send your data completely unencrypted. That means that hackers can capture your data and easily read it. Older networking hardware uses WEP 128-bit encryption when enabled, but newer WPA encryption, now built into most hardware is far superior. It should be required on all your wireless computers and devices. WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) encryption, which includes both scrambling and authentication is much more secure than WEP. All your wireless computers should use MAC Addressing MAC (Media Accessing Control NOT a MacIntosh computer) is an unique hardware address you should assign to your wireless computers so that your Wireless Access Point will only allow these specific computers to connect to your wireless network. To find your computer's MAC address, click Start>>Run. In the Open box, type CMD and click OK. At the prompt, type IPCONFIG /ALL and press Enter. Scroll down and write down what is listed as "Physical Address." It will be something like 00-00-00-00-00-00. Enter this address in your router's management program. This won't keep determined hackers out, but it makes things more difficult. It might be enough to encourage them to go elsewhere.
 
5. Keep your network and computers updated 
As with any software, your Wireless Access Point manufacturer will update the drivers and software to close vulnerabilities and improve performance. By keeping up to date you can stay ahead of the hackers.

6. Can you use secure connections? 
Nowadays may ISPs will provide SSL and other secure services. Check with your ISP and use these services where available.

7. Keep your Operating System and Security Software up to date and patched 
Your security software includes anti-virus, anti-spyware, anti-adware and anti-Browser Helper Object software up to date, as well as keeping your Operating Software patched.

8. Remember that public hotspots are NOT Secure
Whenever you are using a public hotspot, be aware that you are extra vulnerable. Try to NOT do your banking or other critical computing at public hotspots. You are much better off connecting over a dialup connection than in an insecure environment.



Protect Your Computer

t is often said that there is no such things as 100% security. While that is true, it is no reason why you shouldn't take all necessary precautions to prevent unauthorized access. In this article we will examine a few ways to protect your data.

Local Security

            Out of all the different ways an intruder can access your computer, local access is the most promising way to circumvent your security. If a person has local access to a computer, it is only a matter of time before the data on the computer will be extracted.
          However, protecting your computer against local attacks is also easy and only takes a few minutes. First, put a password on your BIOS configuration. Typically, it involves pressing Esc, Tab, F1, or some other key to access the BIOS configuration. From there, the configuration menu should have a tab about security. Open the tab about security and choose a decent password (there are hints about choosing a good password later on). Also, set the computer to boot up from the hard drive first, and do not let it try to boot from the A:\ drive or the CD-ROM drive. The reason why it shouldn't attempt to read the A:\ or CD-ROM drive is that an intruder could use a CD-ROM bootable O.S. like Knoppix to steal your password, even though a BIOS password is set. Now save the changes and exit.

Now to set a password on your accounts on Windows operating systems:

         For NT and XP users: Make sure your administrative account has a password on it. Also, put a password on any other accounts you have and disable the guest account.
For 95, 98, and ME users: The security offered on these platforms is insufficient for the protection of your data. The best option for these platforms would be to rely on other forms of protection, such as encryption.

Internet Security

            The Internet opens up a host of security issues, but since the security problems are so prevalent there are many good solutions. We will now take a look at a few of them.

Firewalls:

            Firewalls protect things called ports. Ports are what your computer uses to access the Internet. To view a webpage, for example, your computer connects to the website's computer through port 80. Programs called Trojans can open ports on your computer and let people get into your computer and do whatever they want, including stealing passwords and credit cards. With a firewall, you can close most ports and protect your computer from Internet attacks. A firewall that I highly recommend is Zone Lab's free firewall called ZoneAlarm. It can be found at Zone Lab's website, http://www.zonelabs.com.

Anti-Virus software:

            Ah... its name rings like poetry in my ear... but seriously, anti-virus software is seriously serious business. Seriously. No way around it, you need to be protected! Anti-virus software is not the be all end of computer security, nor was it meant to be. However, it is a major and powerful form of defense against viruses, trojans, and worms. Now let's talk money... the universal language. Most anti-virus products cost money and a subscription cost... so check around for the best deals. However, the most prominent anti-virus software products are Norton Anti-virus (http://www.symantec.com/) and McAffee (http://www.mcafee.com). But for you people who can't live without freebies, try AVG by Grisoft (http://www.grisoft.com/). The personal version is free... and awesome. Literally... no joke... free. Wow. Try them all and decide which one you like the best. After you have one, setup auto scan if it isn't setup already. Okay, now you are ready! Concentrate, and become one with the force!

Spyware protection:

            Spyware... that this stuff can just be plain nasty. These are the programs that discover information about you and send it to their evil masters. Beware! Danger, Will Robinson! Now, lets talk about ways to destroy them. People will have day-long arguments over which product to use, but the two main programs (both free!) are Spybot: Search and Destroy (cool name - http://www.safer-networking.org/en/index.html) and Ad-aware (http://www.lavasoftusa.com/software/adaware/). Try them both, and see which one you like.
            Now for the most powerful security tool... listen carefully... this is powerful! COMMON SENSE! Firewalls, anti-virus software, and spyware protection is useless against social engineering. Social engineering is conning a person into compromising their security. Now I know what you are saying, why would someone ever compromise their security because some stranger told them to do so!?!? It doesn't make sense... but it happens. All the time. Think abott some e-mail messages you might have gotten... "I Luuuuv you!" "Your pictures are inside!" "I saw your profile..." If a virus is attached, and you download it hoping to see something and you see something quite different, you have been the victim of social engineering. Most social engineering attacks are more powerful and dangerous, but you get the idea.

Checklist to protect yourself:
            ___ Set a bios password.
            ___ Change startup to hard disk.
            ___ Set password on user accounts.
            ___ Disable guest account.
            ___ Download and setup firewall.
            ___ Download and setup anti-virus software.
            ___ Download and setup spyware remover.
            ___ Use common sense!
Remember, security is not a destination, it is a journey.