Software Tip

One of the fun parts of owning a computer is
of course
access to the internet. The worldwide web is chock full of useful information
readily available at your fingertips! It is also home to potentially lethal viruses
many of which can wreak havoc on your system within moments. The following four programs can help you avoid trouble; best of all they are absolutely free.

Firefox – a web browser for the ages. Okay
a web browser that beats Internet Explorer by preventing pop ups and harmful scripts from being downloaded to your computer. Lots of nifty features too
including tabbed browsing
live bookmarks
and tons of add-on features.

Spybot Search and Destroy – gets rid of adware
spyware
and malware. Blocks the installation of spyware before it occurs; works in conjunction with anti-virus software
not as a replacement for one.

AVG Antvirus – offers basic antivirus protection including scanning email attachments for viruses and scanning of all hard drives
removable drives
and external drives on your computer. A paid version does some additional tasks and includes technical support.

Zone Alarm – if you don’t have a firewall installed on your computer
you are opening yourself up to potential catastrophic security breaches. With Stealth Mode enabled you can search the internet in private
away from the intruding eyes of those who might want to steal your important information.

As with many freeware programs
“pro” or professional versions of the software are sometimes available to give computer users a maximum amount of protection
for a price. Still
all four of these programs have something to offer and are worth exploring. Your computer safety and privacy is essential
insure it today by downloading the programs that are right for you.

Like most web developers or SEO professionals
I use a vast array of tools to get the job done. I use a combination of desktop and web applications
some purchased and some free. Everyone I know has downloaded a free copy of Mozilla Firefox
but few realize that by installing some of the 1
500
free extensions they can eliminate the need for most of the other applications they currently use. Below are my 13 favorite extensions for web professionals (in no particular order):

HTML Validator (http://users.skynet.be/mgueury/mozilla/) – validates web pages to the W3C HTML standards with a simple green check in the corner of the page if the page validates
a red check if it doesn’t
and a yellow exclamation point if there are warnings. It also includes an enhanced view of source code that allows you to see where errors are within the code.

FireFTP (https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/684/) – free
secure
cross-platform FTP client that provides easy and intuitive access to FTP servers. This eliminates a piece of software for those of you who use a separate program for FTP.

Professor X (https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/2823/) – lets you view header information without having to view source code. The page “slides” down and Professor X shows you the contents of the page's head element
including Meta
Script and Style content.

NikkelWHOIS (https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/2646/) –view the WHOIS information for any page by clicking the button on the top-right of the browser.

IE Tab (http://ietab.mozdev.org) – sick of swapping between Internet Explorer and Firefox when testing out a web page you’re developing? With IE Tab you can view Internet Explorer in a Firefox Tab!

FireBug (https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/1843/) – an advanced debugger console that lets you monitor your JavaScript
CSS
HTML and Ajax.

Codetech (https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/1002/) – web page editor that has the feel of Dreamweaver. An amazing extension for anyone doing web design that doesn’t want to fork out a few hundred dollars for Dreamweaver.

Server Switcher (https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/2409/) – easily switch between sites on your development and live servers by clicking the switch server icon.

SEO for Firefox (http://tools.seobook.com/firefox/seo-for-firefox.html) – pulls useful market research data right into Google's and Yahoo!'s search results
including Google PR
Age
links
Alexa rank
WHOIS
and more. It also adds a few helpful links to the top of the search pages
including Google Trends
Google Traffic Estimator
and the Overture View Bid tool.

Yet Another Window Resizer (https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/2498/) – allows you to resize browser window to default screen resolutions.

AdSense Preview (https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/2132/) – preview the Google AdSense ads that would appear on that page. This is incredibly useful if you are considering putting AdSense on a page and don’t want to go through the hassle of signing up for an account and putting the ads up just to see what type of ads will show.

Screen grab (https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/1146/) – takes a screenshot of the webpage and saves it as an image file. This saves a ton of time compared to the method I used to use – take a screenshot and open Adobe Photoshop to crop the image.

Server Spy (https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/2036/) – indicates what brand of HTTP server (Apache
IIS
etc.) runs on the visited site on the lower-right side of the browser.

Competitive and fast are two terms that are applicable to the world of computers. Constantly changing and evolving computer systems bring many advantages to the users and techies alike. The race for supremacy between the yet to be launched Vista (scheduled for 2006) and Mac OSX Tiger began in 2003 with Microsoft’s announcements of plans for an integrated desktop search functionality in Windows Vista.

While opinions vary and are really personal choices in many ways
the following sums up the functionalities between Vista and Tiger.

1. Vista has a completely redesigned look and feel; it is aesthetic
functional
and exciting according to industry sources. Mac Tiger on the other hand was always famous for its technology and aesthetics which are clean and clutter free. In fact
many of the visual effects that Vista has like translucent icons
high resolution
and animation effects have been integral to Tiger for more than four years.

2. Vista is yet to resolve problems caused by underlying windows
while Tiger has fine tuned the bleed caused by windows beneath the surface ones.

3. The 128 x 128 pixel icons of Tiger have better rendition and clearer resolution than the 32 x 32 or 64 x 64 pixel icons of Vista. However one will only know whether Vista will have resolution independent vector graphics once the final version comes to the market.

4. Both Vista and Tiger have closely similar desk top search functions. The only immediate difference is that in Tiger the filtering becomes operational only after creation of a Smart Folder or using the shortcut keys. The Virtual Folder of Vista is identical to the Smart Folder of Tiger.

5. Vista has next generation features
where the system has enough inbuilt intelligence that organizes data. This fine tunes any searches that need to be done. In comparison to this
the Tiger has an old fashioned system with no specials.

6. Vista supports meta data processing while with Tiger meta data can be created or edited only by using document processing applications.

7. Vista permits users to visually locate files while Tiger does not. Image previews in Tiger are turned off by default.

8. As far as security is concerned the Tiger is by far superior to Vista. Since the Tiger user base is small the number of hackers and attackers are fewer as compared to Windows.

9. User accounts and log ins are safer in the Tiger system and Microsoft plans to incorporate similar systems in Vista to strengthen security.

10. Vista has new systems similar to Tiger that will enable users to assert parental locks or blocks. Parental controls help limit computer usage by children protecting them from several dangers.

11. Security in Vista includes inbuilt protection against rogue attacks
malware
spyware
adware and so on. In the case of Tiger its security system has remained secure and unbreached. Whether Vista will earn the same distinction will be known only after it comes into use.

12. Both Vista and Tiger have great networking features making both immensely usable both at home and in businesses. The Tiger is simpler while Vista is a bit more complex to use.

13. The hibernation mode works instantly in Tiger and Vista is also trying to match its facilities.

While the above draws tentative comparisons between the two systems a true evaluation can only be made once Vista is released in its completed version and comes into use.

The final version of Office 12 is slated for release in mid 2006. Although Microsoft is yet to confirm what the final version of Office 12 will include
the broad areas that have been the focus of change are productivity
handling of business information
managing of documents
and enhanced user friendliness.

1. All programs like Word
Excel
and Power Point have a new look. The new user interface has a ribbon of frequently used commands and operations which will enhance usability instead of drop down menus.

2. The server based capabilities include document rights and work flow management.

3. In the case of the revamped Excel
it will support SQL Server 2005
and have much awaited features like greater spreadsheet capacity
tools for sorting and filtering
as well as extensive data visualization capabilities. The user will be able to access
analyze
and share information securely and easily not just within the system but between databases and enterprise applications.

4. The new system will support sharing of workspaces and exchange of information across corporate boundaries. Incorporating P2P capabilities
the system it all set to take a giant leap forward.

5. One aspect under consideration is “out-of –the-box secure enterprise instant messaging.”

6. Deeper incorporation of XML will make the system a development platform. Developers will be able to create software that interoperates with the system without hitches.

7. Specially designed Contextual Command Tabs. These will only appear when a user is all set to modify a document or Excel sheet. Just clicking on the page will call up the Command Tab with relevant tools for making changes.

8. Galleries is an innovation that is promoted as the ‘heart’ of the redesigned applications. In this the user will be able to see how his document will shape up. This will simplify the process of creating professionally layed out documents.

9. A system known as Live Preview is a brand new technology that will enable the user to view in a gallery the editing or changed formatting executed on a document.

10. Faster document authoring will be possible with incorporation of custom built layouts and slide libraries. Through SharePoint the user will also be able to store their personal slides and layouts in this function. The system is designed so that it can be accessed offline.

11. Rapid email and document searching will become feasible through the Fast Search technology in Vista (Longhorn).

12. Using new innovations in integrated technologies the system will support multiparty audio
video
as well as data collaboration.

The system is designed to run on Windows XP Service Pack 2
or Longhorn client
or updated versions of windows with at least an SQL server 2000. Office 12 will support x64 platforms but it is not certain whether the support will be shipped with Office 12 or separately.

The very purpose of Office 12 according to Microsoft is to make life easy for users with better presentation
organization
and capabilities.

Buying software online can be tricky
especially if you are new to shopping via the internet. Whether you are upgrading an existing software package or looking for a specific program to install
the process will be a lot less complicated if you know what to look for.

Software Buying Tip # 1
Read customer reviews. Many popular online stores
such as Amazon
allow users to leave their comments about a particular product. Reading other customer reviews may help to make your decision easier because it gives you an idea of others who have experienced the product firsthand.

Software Buying Tip # 2
When considering any type of software
make sure that it is compatible with your computer. Most software requires a specific processor type
such as Pentium or Celeron
and a certain amount of free hard drive space. The reason is because
in order for software to function properly at quickly
the computer must be able to handle the application. By being familiar with your computer’s configuration
you will be able to select the right software.

Software Buying Tip # 3
Become familiar with the software by reading it’s description and capabilities. Before purchasing any type of software
you should make sure that it is exactly what you want or will enjoy learning. Often times
after software is opened
there is no refund policy for buyer’s remorse.

Software Buying Tip # 4
Purchase software from a reputable company. This will ensure customer service
reliability
quality products and timely shipment. By purchasing software from a reliable source
you will also ensure that the title is authentic and not an illegal copy. The best way to check out a business’s reputation is through the Better Business Bureau.

Software Buying Tip # 5
The best part of shopping for software online is the competition. Because there are so many retailers
prices are more competitive than if only one store had the software that you want. Shop around and compare prices before making a final decision.

Software Buying Tip # 6
When making a purchase online
consider using a credit card. Most credit card companies provide a dispute resolution process
which is beneficial if the product is not delivered
is not as advertised or is damaged and the company will not stand behind the transaction.

Software Buying Tip # 7
If purchasing from another individual
such as often the case with online auctions
confirm that the software has all manuals and/or product keys to ensure proper installation.

Software Buying Tip # 8
Learn about the company’s return
refund and/or exchange policy. In many cases
especially with software
the company may refuse to accept the product back for a refund. However
there is always the possibility that a program is damaged or doesn’t function properly
in which case the store should honor the purchase with an exchange for the same title. When buying software online
it’s best to purchase from a store that is reasonable when it comes to exchanges if not refunds.

Software Buying Tip # 9
When purchasing software online
take a moment to look at the company’s shipping costs
methods and availability of a way to track the package following shipment.

Software Buying Tip # 10
Common payment methods include credit cards
checks and/or money orders. If you want to purchase software online
you will need to do so from a company that accepts a convenient payment method. If you do not have a credit card
most companies will accept a mailed payment. Most companies
however
recommend not sending cash.

Like a brush is to a painter an essential skill in the field of graphic design is Photoshop. The software offers increased productivity as well as flexibility. The features include aspects like file browser
vanishing point tool
smart sharpen filter
noise reduction filter
smart objects
as well as camera workflow enhancements. Photoshop offers professional photo editing features
digital imaging
as well as non destructive editing.

There are so many hidden features and insights to software
that it is often impossible to know them all.

1. There is a hidden option using which you can simulate bold and italic formatting styles for fonts that do not have these options. Click the button on the type tool option to bring up the character palette. Then select text and click the arrow in the upper right hand corner of the palette menu where faux bold and italics are present. However you will not be able to warp type when formatting has been applied.

2. One can quickly flip through blend modes while trying out effects by using the keys “shift+ to change to next mode and shift- to go to the previous mode.” When a painting tool is active this shortcut will change the blend mode of the painting tool. However
if anything is highlighted then the shortcut will not work. You will have press esc and then use the shortcut keys again.

3. The photomerge feature can be used to seamlessly combine multiple images to create a panorama. This feature can be accessed from the Automate menu. You can even refine the composition using tools like rotate
zoom
pan
and set vanishing point.

4. When re-sampling images one can use either Bicubic Smoother or Bicubic Sharper. You can use Bicubic smoother for up sampling and Bicubic sharper for down sampling. You can actually specify which interpolation method is to be used by going to general preferences and setting a default.

5. There are two features for printing. You can use contact sheet II or picture package. Use contact sheet when you want all images in the same size and you want to print the name below the image. Use printer package when you want different image sizes on the same page
or multiple copies of the same image
or a text overlay.

6. If you want to remove a glare on the eyeglasses of an image you should use a part of the lens that does not have a glare and use it to layer the lens with a glare. Use tools like rotate and skew and soft-tip eraser to soften the edges. Ensure the glare does not show through from below. Or
do some careful work using the clone tool.

7. The online services enable you to connect to online photo printing and sharing sites.

8. The Web Photo gallery can generate hyperlink pages that can be uploaded to a server.

9. The Picture Package option will help you prepare photos in layout with multiple size prints on one page.

10. You will never forget how you achieved a certain result because the History Log will detail every step taken by you as well as time-tracking
and a legal record. There are three choices wherein
you can create a sessions only record where
it will record only when Photoshop is opened or closed; or a concise record which will record each action including the text that appears in the history palette; or the complete editing history including the text that appears in the actions palette.

Adobe Photoshop is a dream tool for every designer and one can over time master every subtlety of the tool and crop
rotate
resize
create shapes
add layers
change text
and play with colors. It is a hands on software where the more you use it the more you will learn.

Every new operating system comes with advanced and much improved features. What is exciting to some is not so to others. Basically within a new system each user has his or her own individual preferences. Windows Vista or Longhorn as it was first known is a replacement for XP and is the “new” desk operating system scheduled to be launched by December 2006.

Descriptions of Vista are glowing; it is seen as a vision of the future. High definition graphics
the ‘z’ level in organization
greater clarity
unbelievable security
and boundless thinking power are what it is about. The operating system is set to fulfill all needs
it has a secure and speedy start up
not just when booting but also when returning to active status from standby mode; improved and strengthened driver design which protects the os from crashing when other things go wrong; and an antiphishing device or filter that identifies and confirms phishing sites by using a dynamically updated database. Technically
the Vista uses an image-based installation thereby facilitating deployments by IT professionals. An advanced event log simplifies administrative tasks.

The October 2005 new test build of Windows Vista has fulfilled expectations by incorporating several new IE 7.0 features
new networking and diagnostic functions. Of all the most significant is the incorporation of the core of Microsoft’s Antispyware product in Vista. A key feature of the Vista system is deployment
the inter-dependent modules permits easy customization of Vista to fit individual needs. The WIM format allows a single image to be used or accessed by different computer hardware irrespective of individual language requirements
you can easily add or remove drivers
include updates and windows components offline without having to boot the operating system image.

The system comes with features like:

1. A new graphics engine that has easy navigation
toolbars with inbuilt intuition
high resolution graphics
movie action that is better that real-life
and easy to learn tools.

2. Revamped Windows Explorer with a next generation navigation structure
tool bars
and icons. The user friendly design incorporates clear glowing buttons and an interface that can captivate a user for hours together.

3. Virtual folders offer permanent storage with dynamic interaction possibilities.

4. The user account protection features shield you from rouge programs and security risk.

5. The system ensures easy installation of programs with “Click Once.” This energizes an installation experience by lending the function speed and security.
6. Error messages are handled by “Task Dialogues” an integral diagnostics that warns of a problem and helps with a solution.

7. New and improved technologies include
PNRP
Peer Name Resolution Protocol
a brand new technological revolution that enables applications to find and connect to one another; WWAN
a router; WLAN
indoor connector; VLAN
allows LANS to communicate; Wi - Fi
deals with radio frequencies.

8. A system where snap-ins to MMC can be moved up or down as per convenience.

9. Has XImage which is non-destructive.

10. Improved up-time with an automatic Restart Manager.

According to computer experts
Vista conquers new horizons while it takes technology into a new realm. It introduces joys of working along with hum drums like increased productivity. Whether or not the features commented upon and tested by many techies across the world will be incorporated in the final version of Vista is not certain as it will be decided by Microsoft based on surveys
marketing projections
costs
and technical reasons.

Most of us who use computers are afraid of spyware and the problems it causes. So
you learn all about spyware and the ways to protect yourself from it. How will you know whether you have complete knowledge? Well what you can do is to surf the World Wide Web for the latest on spyware and computer security.

You can test your knowledge by taking self-tests and quizzes. Companies like Microsoft are very consumer friendly and make an effort to upload tons of information on computers and software for users in search of knowledge.

According to Microsoft you can test your knowledge by answering the following questions:

1. How will you prevent children from accidentally downloading spyware?

The answer must be: You can prevent children from downloading spyware by giving them a limited user account.

2. What are browser cookies?

Ans: These are created by unethical persons to track your browsing preferences for their own use
to spam your pc with advertisements and marketing ploys
to steal personal information like bank account details
credit card numbers and so on
and to cause harm to your computer and business by stealing data/files.

3. How can you use technology to protect your computer?

Ans: Many giants in computer technology are offering software and hardware to prevent spyware attacks. For example Windows Defender Beta 2 is one option.

4. What is Windows Defender?

Ans: It is an anti-spyware software that can detect spyware and warn you immediately
inform you of possible dangers and new spywares
remove spyware. It protects your PC against pop ups
slow functioning
security threats
and infections.

5. What are common signs that show your computer is infected?

Ans: Signs are unwarranted pop ups
strange PC behavior
change in homepage settings
appearance of new tool bars not installed by you
slowing down of computer
loss of files
crashing of computer
and so on.

6. What are the precautions to be taken?
Ans: Precautions are: install a fire wall
update all software
pay attention to security settings
use anti-spyware programs
use the internet safely.

7. Is a firewall useful?

Ans: Yes
it examines all information and acts as a filter anything even faintly suspicious will not be permitted
it will create a protective cloak and prevent undesirable sources from detecting your computer on the net.

8. How does spyware work and what protects your computer?

Ans: A spyware is a thief it can use information on you
steal files
and place undesirable material on your computer. The pc must be protected by use of firewall
anti-spyware hardware as well as software
and careful browsing as well as downloads.

9. Where can you get protection against spyware?

Ans: There are many choices a few are: Platinum Internet security 2005
Microsoft Beta 2
Webroot Spy Sweeper
Sunbelt Counter Spy
and Spybot.

10. Name three security measures?

Ans: One must not open e-mails with attachments from unknown sources; use a spam guard for all e-mail accounts
and avoid using messengers.


These days knowledge is available at the click of a mouse button so update your knowledge base and keep abreast of new developments.