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Rick

I should have trusted my instincts

I teach my kids to trust their instincts when making decisions, taking tests, and dealing with people. I try to do the same, but sometimes my brain (or maybe ego and curiosity) gets in the way. Over the past few years, we have talked at length about computer security and the dangers of not being secure.  After spending many hours hunkered down over an infected computer and trying to get overwhelmed computers fixed, we have come to a conclusion about fixing some of these problems. In some of the worst cases, it is cheaper and quicker to backup up the necessary user files then format the hard drive and start over with a fresh install of Windows, its updates and the proper security software.

Three ways to scroll

Whenever I tutor people on their computer, I always tell them that there are five ways to do almost anything in Microsoft Windows, but there are no wrong ways.

When I pick a particular skill to teach, I choose the method that is 1. universal and 2. involves the least amount of steps.

There is one exception where I teach three methods. When I teach people how to use the scroll bar in a Window I think it is important to show the fast way, the slow way, and the way that moves up and down a list at "reading speed."

The slow way: Every scroll bar has a little triangle at the top and at the bottom. You can move one item at a time through the list by making quick mouse clicks on either on the top or bottom triangle. This method is great when you want to carefully browse through a list such as a list of "Smiths" in an online phone book.

Ordering HP – Compaq Recovery CD’s

Few computer manufacturers include the original installation disks or even recovery disks for new computers today. Almost every computer user will have a need to access these important disks over the life time of the machine. Most computer makers' web sites allow you to order these recovery CD's via their support sections. Also, you can (and should) make your own set of recovery CD's or DVD's through tools installed by your manufacturer on your computer. These tools can usually be found on the desktop or the Programs menu.

If you own an HP or Compaq computer, however, finding where to order these disks online is fruitless.

Take the stickers off

I setup a new printer today and the thing was covered with stickers. I am not talking about the pieces of tape that hold all the parts in place for shipping – there were a lot of those too. I am referring to the stickers that advertise the fact that this printer prints. Or that this printer is "Great for photos!" There was even a sticker that said that it was. "Easy to use and setup!"

Why do they put these stickers on the printer? They also put them on new computers. If the computer or printer is in a box then wrapped in two layers of styrofoam and plastic bags, why do you need all these stickers?

E2Give Spyware removal

I forgot to post this earlier in the week. One of my customer's had a particularly nasty spyware infection that needed a specialized tool to remove it. The spyware is called e2give. If one of your spyware programs detects it, use this tip to get rid of it:

Download the removal tool here.

Then follow these instructions:

– Extract the file you downloaded to your Desktop
– Double click E2TakeOut.exe
– Click the Begin Removal button
– Wait until the program is finished scanning
– Once done, it will produce a popup stating that the infection has been found and you need to reboot you computer to complete the removal
– Reboot your computer
– Once your computer has rebooted E2TakeOut will open and produce a report

Everything is color coded

It seems like a lot of people are moving lately. I have seen three clients this week who have moved into new homes. My job was simple in each case. They wanted me to setup their computer.

In the excitement of moving they took their computer apart and put the pieces into boxes. Then they couldn't figure out how to put them back together again.

When it comes to putting a new computer together or re-assembling an old computer, there are two secrets that I will share.

1. Everything is color coded.

  • There are usually two green plugs that go into green ports or jacks. These two green plugs are your sound output for your speakers and your mouse cable.
  • There is one purple plug, it is for your keyboard. Keep in mind that in each case both the plug and the socket are matching colors.
  • There is one trapazoid shaped blue plug. This is your monitor.

2. With only one exception, if the plug fits in the socket everything will work fine.