Computers and Technology

So you've finally decided it's time for a change. No matter
what advice you follow that old work horse of a desktop
computer you have has outlived its usefulness with slow
loading applications and a continuous rise in operation
noise.

Searching for that Perfect Computer can be about as much fun
as purchasing a new car and about as frustrating also when
sorting through the various brands while trying to decide
which "bells and whistles" best fit your needs. Besides all
that trying to return something that is so large can be both
inconvenient and very difficult to do. So making the right
decision the FIRST time is the wise path of choice.

For starters you'll need to decide what you want to do with
your computer. Are you into the video game scene or are you
someone who likes to just surf the internet and occasionally
do some book keeping with simple word processing software?

If you're into video games you're going to want a machine
that can handle the high level of graphics and superior
sound quality. On the other hand if you're not into all
that high adrenalin stuff you can probably get by with a
less expensive system. Although, if you want to stay on the
safe side I would recommend going with something more
"high-end" so you don't have to spend another large chunk of
change to upgrade the system you just bought.

There are two basic routes you can take when purchasing a
new computer.

1) Purchase a "Brand Name" Computer
2) Purchase a "Clone" Computer

A "BRAND-NAME" computer is one that is manufactured by a
company that is recognizable by name.

Some Advantages/Disadvantages of "Brand-Name" computers
include:

Advantages:

Customer Support- If you are experiencing problems with your
computer you will have the option to contact a
representative of the company that you purchased the PC from
to get help in solving your problem.

Customer support is probably the best reason to buy a
brand-name computer.

Warranty- Having a warranty is always nice since it acts as
a type of security blanket for you.

In case a part on your computer should fail you should be
able to get the item fixed at no charge just as long as the
warranty has not expired.

Read and understand a company's warranty policy BEFORE you
purchase a computer from them.

This way you'll have a good understanding of the procedures
to follow in case a problem should arise.

Pre-installed Software- Many companies will include software
packages that are all set up and ready to go for you on your
computer.

Although, a disadvantage of buying a brand-name computer
with software pre-installed is that you usually end up with
more than fits your needs and usually just results with the
wasting of space on your storage device.

Additional Support- Most brand-name computer companies are
also able to provide you with web sites that may provide you
with current software updates, user manuals, or basic
troubleshooting help.

Disadvantages

The use of Proprietary parts- the term Proprietary refers to
products that are unique to an individual company and that
company only.

So if a part was to malfunction on your computer after
warranty and you needed to replace it you could not just go
to your local computer store and purchase any old part even
if it was intended for the same function as the item that
failed.

You would be forced to buy the exact same item that came out
of the computer or else the computer would more than likely
cease to function correctly.

Having to buy proprietary parts usually involves the need to
place an order which means you'll have to wait for the part
to arrive or you'll have to send your computer into the
company or an authorized dealer of that company for
repairs.

People with a home based business would probably not be too
happy with that situation at all.

Integrated/On-board parts- In the computer world when you
hear the word integrated or on-board it means that a
particular part such as the modem or sound port where you
plug in your speakers, is built-in or part of the computer
main board (Also known as the Motherboard).

This means that if any of these items should fail, you can't
just remove them from the computer and replace them with a
new part. They are usually soldered directly to the main
board and are stuck there.

Although, some computers do provide a way to disable a
malfunctioning device which will allow you to install your
own store bought device to take the place of the broken
part.

From a computer technicians point of view this is not always
easy to do.

It just depends on what brand of computer you currently
have. Meaning some are easier to work on than others.

A "CLONE" computer is a clone or a copy of its brand-name
counterpart with the exception that instead of company
specific or proprietary parts, the items used to make a
clone computer are from several different companies instead
of only one.

Let's say that if you were to go to a local company that
builds "clone" computers, and you tell them what you need,
chances are they don't use parts that are specific to only
that type of computer like the brand-name computer companies
do.

This is a good thing because it means that they will
probably use components that are interchangeable with many
different brands and are easy to come by if needed.

Some Advantages/Disadvantages of "Clone" computers include:

Advantages:

Cost- compared to brand-name computers the clone will
generally be easier on your pocket book when purchasing one
with similar features as its brand-name counterpart.

This is most likely due to the money that is saved by not
offering the high-end customer service. Although, that may
not be the only reason for the lower prices.

Easily Accessible Replacement Parts- Since the clone
computer was built with parts that are not any one company
specific, you can buy parts for the clone computer that can
be used even if the brand is different from the one that was
in the computer when you originally bought it.

NOTE: Before you buy any parts, it is necessary to make sure
that the replacement parts are compatible with your
particular computers system requirements.

Either consult the manual that should have came with your
computer or get help from a knowledgeable friend or repair
person.

Disadvantages:

Warranties- Unless you purchase a service plan you will
typically not have as an attractive warranty as you would
with a brand-name computer company.

Whatever you do just make sure you understand how long the
warranty is for and as to what kind of repairs the warranty
covers before you make the purchase.

Customer Support- With brand-name computer companies you are
usually provided with a 24-hour toll free number that you
can call if you have questions or concerns with your
computer.

Clone computers are more than likely not going to have a
24-hour help service, but rather you will be forced to only
be able to call during regular business hours.

Also, it is more than likely that there will not be any one
website that you can go to in order to find out information
concerning troubleshooting questions you may have.

For service it may be necessary to take the computer back to
the store that you bought it at or you may have to do some
research on the individual parts that went into the computer
and visit the manufacturer's website for troubleshooting
tips.

Finally, if all else fails you can certainly take what you
have learned from this article and being that you know what
you need now, but don't know where to go and get that
"Perfect Computer", the best resource at your disposal are
the very men and woman that work at your local electronics
shop.

It is their duty to help you get hold of that "Perfect
Computer" that best fits your needs. All you need to do is
tell them what you plan on using that computer for and they
should be more than happy to help you from there.

The best way to get the gaming computer that you want, that will provide optimum performance is to build your own computer. If you think you do not have the technical knowledge or are not capable of building a computer you are wrong. I'm pretty certain that I could teach my mother (who has a hard time working a VCR) how to build a computer. If you can plug a sweeper into a wall outlet and use a screw driver, you too can build a computer.

What The Computer Manufacturers Don't Want You to Know!

Manufacturers don't want you to know how easy it is to build a computer because they make their living selling complete computers. The truth is that manufacturers focus on selling a computer with an overall low price tag to entice people to buy. They use the processor and software as the primary selling point. In most cases other than the processor and maybe the graphics card you have no idea what components they actually use. Alienware is one of the rare exceptions. They tell you for the most, part what components they are using. However, this doesn't mean that these are the best components on the market. Every manufacturer gets regular visits from sales people convincing them that they should use their products. Just because a company gives them the best deal on a power supply that allows them to increase their profit margin on the computers they sell doesn't make it the best power supply. This often leads to the use of inferior products for the sake of profit.

The Advantages To Building Your Own Computer

By building your own computer you are assured of getting the highest quality because you have painstakingly researched every component. If you've ever wondered why your store bought gaming computer with the top of the line graphics card and ultra fast CPU is still having trouble running newer games, it is likely because they stuck you with an inferior power supply, cheap motherboard, inadequate RAM, and the list goes on. In my mind it makes sense to build your own computer.

Warranties and Technical Support

If you are worried about warranties, you need not be. In most cases you can get a manufacturers warranty on every component you buy. As for technical support, I've had much better luck with getting questions answered through friendly helpful forums on the internet than I ever have from technical support lines. Not to mention you don't have to pay to sit on hold.

Upgrades Are Painless And Fast

When you build your own computer upgrades are a snap. You've already put it together so switching a hard drive or changing the graphics card is extremely easy. For instance I just upgraded my graphics card. It took me longer to unplug everything from the back of my tower than it did to swap the graphics card. All in all I was up and running with the new drivers installed in about 10 minutes. If you are impatient like I am taking your machine to a store to have it upgraded just isn't worth the wait.

How To Build Your Own Computer

I hope I've convinced you to build your own computer. It is a very rewarding experience. As I've said it isn't very difficult.
I do however recommend that you do your research. There are several good books published on the topic such as "Build Your Own PC", by Morris Rosenthal. You can also find a great deal of information regarding building computers and computer hardware at my website Gaming-Computers.net. Good luck with your computer, and remember, if you ever run into problems building it there are thousands of people on the Net that are more than willing to help, and they won't charge you a technician's service fee.

1. No Access to the Keyboard During the Boot Process?

Help, I can't access my keyboard at boot!

If this is the case, I would recommend:

1-1. If using a USB keyboard, plug the keyboard into the primary USB ports on the back of the computer (on the motherboard). Restart the computer and try again.

1-2. Try another known working USB keyboard plugged into the primary USB ports on the back of the computer (on motherboard). Restart the computer and try again.

1-3. Try another known working PS/2 keyboard, restart the computer and try again.

1-4. If using a PS/2 Keyboard, try replacing your keyboard with a USB keyboard, restart the computer and try again.

1-5. If these steps fail, remove your keyboard connection and shut the computer off with the power button. While computer is off, plug the keyboard back into the computer and start the computer.

Still doesn't work? Please go to "I need to flash my bios" section and proceed with flashing your bios.

2. Does Your Computer Freeze at Bios?

Why is my computer frozen?!

2-1. Remove all devices from your computer including removable hard drives, additional USB devices, and printers and faxes. Restart the computer and try again. If no result, go to step 2-2.

2-2. If you can see your bios screen, please tap the key to go into your bios settings. While inside of bios, make sure that your hard drive, memory and video card ( is applicable) are detected. If it is not, try re-seating or replacing the unit that is not being detected. If no result, go to step 2-3.

2-3. While looking in bios and all of your hardware is getting detected okay, please reset the bios back to its default settings and choose "save and quit." The computer will restart and you should be looking at the operating system loading page at this point. If no result, go to step 2-4.

2-4. Open the computer, remove all but 1 memory module (usually closest to the CPU) and disconnect all hard drives. Also disconnect and PCI or AGP add on cards and start your computer. If you see "operating system not found" or a similar message, progress has been made. Then start adding back 1 item at a time, restarting the computer after each item to see when it fails.

If these steps still won't work, please proceed to the "I need to flash my bios" section.

3. Computer Beeping Noises on Power Up

No data on screen and computer yelling at you?

3-1. If your computer is beeping at start up and you are not seeing anything on your screen. There is a hardware problem with your computer. Please check your motherboard or computer manufacturers website for bios code meanings. If this is not possible, first thing to try is remove all sticks of memory except for one, restart your computer and try again. If no result, please go to step 3-2.

3-2. If removed and tested all memory, please disconnect all internal connections EXCEPT for Power supply connections, Video card connections and the Power switch (PSW). Also leaving 1 stick of memory, heatsinks and fans plugged in as well, restart the computer and try again. If no result, please go to step 3-3.

3-3. If you have a video card installed and have on-board video as well, please remove the video card and the power connection to that card. Hook the video cable to your on board video connection. Restart your computer and try again. If no result, go to step 3-4.

3-4. If the beeping still exists, Try replacing the memory with a known working module. Restart the computer and try again, if no result, please replace the motherboard and try again. If still no result, go to step 3-5.

3-5. If beeping still exists, replace the processor and add only the necessary connections ( Power supply connections, Video card connections and the Power switch (PSW). Also leaving 1 stick of memory, heatsinks and fans plugged in as well ). Start the computer and try again.

Note: If all steps do not work, please review the steps one more time, if the computer is still beeping at start up, please contact a local computer repair technician.

4. Windows Was Unable to Start?

unmountable volume, windows did not start successfully?

4-1. First you should try "start Windows normally." If this does not bring you back into Windows, move to step 4-2.

4-2. Choose the "Use last known good configuration", you should be able to boot back into Windows at this point, if not proceed to step 4-3.

4-3. Choose "Repair" as an option and let the computer go through it's motions, your computer may restart a couple of times in the process. You should now be able to get back in to Windows, if not please proceed to step 4-4.

4-4. You will need to boot from a Windows installation DVD or boot-able USB with the installation files on it. Make sure to press the adequate key at bios to view / change boot options. Boot the DVD / USB, choose repair and then choose your Windows installation directory. If prompted with a command prompt, type "chkdsk /r" and then press enter. If no result, move to step 4-5.

4-5. If another computer is available, please remove the hard drive from the affected computer, insert the hard drive into the working computer as a slave ( making the proper jumper configuration change on the primary and slave drive). Then boot into Windows using your known working hard drive, then try and recover as much personal data as possible and store it on the known working hard drive. If another computer is unavailable or this does not work for you, please proceed to step 4-6.

4-6. Attach a removable storage medium ( removable hard drive ) Boot to a recovery software utility or Live CD using your DVD drive or USB drive. A few of these utilities are Hiren's Boot CD, Ultimate Boot CD, Knoppix and Ubuntu. Access your hard drive from this utility and back up all of your personal files and information. Then safely remove your removable hard drive, restart your computer and hit F11 or ctrl + F11 repeatedly if you have a factory installed windows recovery partition. Or if you have a DVD Windows installation disc insert this disc at start up. Choose the "install" option and install over your old broken Windows installation.

Note: If the above will not work, please contact a local computer repair technician.

5. I Need to Flash My Bios!

Bios corrupted, acting strange?

5-1. Obtain your bios compatible files. Most of the time, you can get these files from the manufacturer's website. Just search for the files on their website using your model # of you computer or service tag.

5-2. Create a boot-able floppy drive with your bios files. Then manually copy the bios files onto the floppy drive, eject the floppy drive and insert it into the troubled computer and start the computer up. Press the specific key to access your boot menu when the computer is starting up, choose your floppy drive. If everything goes to plan, you should see a command prompt. Follow your manufacturers instructions on how to flash the bios. If you do not have a floppy drive, proceed to 5-3.

5-3. Create a boot-able USB with your bios files on it. One utility to get this job done would be HP's USB Storage Format Tool. Then manually copy the bios files onto the USB drive, eject the USB drive and insert it into the troubled computer and start the computer up. Press the specific key to access your boot menu when the computer is starting up, choose your USB drive. If everything goes to plan, you should see a command prompt. Follow your manufacturers instructions on how to flash the bios. If you do not have a USB drive, proceed to 5-4.

5-4. Create a boot-able DVD with your bios files on it. When making your iso, copy the bios files into the ISO before compiling. Burn the DVD, eject the DVD and insert it into the troubled computer and start the computer up. Press the specific key to access your boot menu when the computer is starting up. Choose your DVD drive. If everything goes to plan, you should see a command prompt. Follow your manufacturers instructions on how to flash the bios.

Note: If you are not able to flash your bios, you may need to contact a local computer repair technician.

A scuba diving computer can be a divers best friend. It will allow you to stay down longer than if you were diving off of tables. There are many types and/or styles of dive computers you can choose from. Which one is best is really personal preference and is suited to the way you dive. The following are some of the choices you will have when purchasing your dive computer.

Console Dive Computer

A console dive computer is attached to the rest of the equipment via a hose. The console dive computers typically come with a pressure gauge. The readouts are typically larger than on a wrist dive computer so they can also be easier on the eyes.

There are also options for a scuba dive computer to be mounted on your hose (this is the type we currently use) or clip onto your BC. Choose whichever is more comfortable for you and fits into your price range.

Wrist Dive Computer

The wrist dive computer is very popular. These types of computers look like large watches and are worn on the wrist. They will tell you all you need to know at a glance. Some wrist dive computers are also able to be mounted in a console.

Sometimes the faces may be a bit small for all the information the computer can display, so make sure you will be able to read it underwater.

Unless they are air integrated and wireless (see below) wrist dive computers usually do not come with a pressure gauge. One small disadvantage here is that these can be pretty easy to misplace/lose.

Air Integrated Dive Computer

Air integrated dive computers are becoming more commonplace. An air integrated computer measures the tank pressure and then calculates how much more time you have left at the current rate of air consumption. The air integrated dive computer will tell you how much time you can spend at any exertion level.

An air integrated computer replaces the need for a submersible pressure gauge (SPG). One downside of an air integrated computer is that if it fails, you lose information on how much air you have left in your tank. Dive over.

Nitrox Dive Computer

With nitrox diving becoming more and more common, so are computers that are nitrox compatible. Even if you aren't diving with nitrox now, if you are even thinking of diving with nitrox in the future, it is probably worth it to purchase a nitrox dive computer. This will save you the expense of buying a whole new computer in the future. However, if don't think you will ever dive with nitrox, then there is no reason to pay for this feature. A standard air computer is probably $100+ less than its nitrox counterpart.

Hoseless Dive Computer

The hoseless dive computer consists of the receiver (typically worn on the wrist or mounted on the BC) and a transmitor. The transmitor attaches to the high pressure port of the regulator first stage and then sends your air information, wirelessly, to the receiver. The receiver looks the same as normal dive computers.

This setup cuts down on the number of hoses you need. There are now even hoseless dive computers that can accept signal from multiple transmitors - so you can even keep an eye on your buddies air consumption. Of course, this capability is really for the more advanced technical divers who may use different tanks on one dive. And, of course, we are talking some pretty high price tags here.

So just think about how you dive and what capabilities you need. The right dive computer for one person can be completely wrong for another person. Choose one that you are comfortable with and one that is right for you wallet.

Without question, computers were more trouble than they were worth for a good many years. Room-sized computers couldn't even keep up with a cheap pocket calculator for the first 15 years of their existence! And the prices...is it any wonder that most of us thought the computer was just some fancy toy? If you really think about it, Pong lured more of us into the world of computers than anything practical. Ahh, but everything has changed, hasn't it? And done so before our very eyes.

From the cashier ringing up our lunch to the meter reader making the rounds in the neighborhood every month for the gas company, computers have invaded everywhere! Computer training was once perceived as a way to open up some pretty impressive doors. Now? Some degree of computer training is needed just to get in any door these days, and it's only going to get worse.

Hey look, I'm a welder - why would I ever need computer training?

I've got just one word for you - China. You know, that crazy place where wages are a mere fraction of what they are in the United States or Western Europe. One out of every six manufacturing jobs has been lost in the United States since 2000. Global competition has changed computer training from "nice resume builder" to "essential reading". But while China has millions and millions of people who can afford to work for a fraction of what workers bring home in the West, the country is still very behind with respect to technology and basic computer training. It is more than possible that some in-depth computer training may be what makes you vital to a company, and a person who can only weld - well, easier to replace.

I don't sleep enough as it is - where am I going to find time for computer training?

Well, you can always find time for computer training after you get laid-off and don't have to worry about that irritating job thing for awhile - after all, it does eat up 40 hours a week (or more). However, if you want to stay ahead of the game and not play catch-up, online computer training schools may be your best option.

Are you nuts? Those online places are a joke, right? I mean, what employer is going to give me a job because of some certificate from a school that doesn't exist - except on my computer?

Are there some shady online computer training schools? Well, of course there are - but the same is true of those "real" schools with cool things like buildings and stuff. They operate without accreditation, making their certificates and degrees useless. However, just as with online computer training schools, there are a lot of great places to get the additional training and skills you need to succeed in this brave new world of ours. As with traditional computer training schools, you will have to do your homework in order to get the best training for your buck. Plus--and this is key--you are only going to benefit by actually trying to learn. Many employers test computer skills prior to employment anyway, so cheating the system or attending online computer training schools with poor requirements will only hurt you in the long run.

Like it or not, the computer is not going anywhere. For better or worse, we must live in this new electronic universe, and computer training is vital to your success. In order to stay a step ahead of the competition while leading a hectic lifestyle, consider online computer training schools as an option for getting the skills you need in this global market. Ignore this fact, and you may be saying "Would You Like Fries With That?"

Like it or not our lives are virtually controlled by computers. Computers give us the ability to do many things we cannot do without them and we can't imagine our lives now without them. Today computer and internet skills are very important to our everyday lives. We face error and repair type issues constantly and now more than ever we need enough knowledge to do a simple slow computer fix to our own computer. Simply put, we need to keep them functioning as they should and at an adequate speed.

Here are some things for you to look at that you might be able to do "at home":

(1) Does your computer have too many unneeded programs installed and / or running?
There are programs pre-loaded by the computer companies that you do not want or need. All computer companies do it. In fact my best computers have been the ones I have had built by local people or shops by assembling components to my specs. That way I didn't get the "garbage". To have these applications removed from your computer is not easy and can even be dangerous for the computer. Probably the best solution to these "extra" programs is to let a professional clean them out of your computer for you.

(2) Does your computer have the right amount of memory?
Many times a slow computer is one lacking enough memory, especially in older units. The longer you work your computer the more data is stored away. Windows XP stores data in as many as five separate locations. It seems that our computers now have a tremendous amount of capacity compared to say ten years ago, but the computer requires so much more as well. The amount of data storage capacity varies with the uses of the computer. Home computers do not need anywhere near the memory (or the CPU speed) as one used for high-performance games. Check with the software company for its recommendations for your computer which will probably be on the software box or in the instruction manual.

(3) What is the hard disk and random access memory?
The two main types of memory your computer has is the hard disk memory and the RAM or random access memory. Simply put the hard disk is where data is stored permanently, or long term, and the RAM is short term memory. Either of these two types of computer memory can make your computer slow down. The slow computer fix could be either installing more memory or eliminating some of the data you are storing. Honestly the RAM effects speed more often, so check it first, through the specifications required.

(4) What about the computer's registry?
Registry cleaning is really very simple and may be the best thing for you to do at this point. The registry is virtually the brain of the computer and is where your operating system stores many of the important configurations for applications, start up, etc. Optimizing your computer's registry can help remove unnecessary information and that can be a slow computer fix also. Over and over again it seems the registry is the main problem. It may not solve all your problems but it is a possible quick inexpensive fix.

When computers fail we are helpless. Sometimes the failure is due to a virus attack. However, other hardware failures could be the source of the problem. With new computers there are some simple hardware component replacements that fix ailing computers. These are simple replacements that literally anyone can do with a screwdriver and patience. Most often the failed component to replace is the power supply, the hard disk drive, or a failed CD or DVD drive. This article helps you determine the source of the computer failure so that if it is a simple problem, you could repair your computer. Alternatively, you would know when to have a professional help you repair your computer after the problem is identified.

Let us start from scratch. In this case we have our malfunctioning computer powered off. The first step is to power it on and observe. When the power button is hit, do lights light up in the computer? On both tower computers and laptop computers there are lights that light when power is applied. A good idea is to take a picture of your computer when it is running properly so it helps you remember how it looks, what lights are lighted, and what the color of the lights are. Good power to the computer is often indicated by a green or blue light. Orange lights indicate a malfunction and indicate that the computer has power somewhere.

When there are no lights, the power supply is likely to be the source of the failure. Laptop external transformers can be tested and replaced. They run under $100. There are aftermarket replacements. The next test for a laptop and a desktop computer is to use a new external laptop transformer or a new power supply as a test for the failed power supply.

Power supplies for desktop computers are available on-line and from local stores. They also cost around $100. A new supply does not need to be installed in a computer to test the power supply. Just lay the computer on its side with the chassis open, place the new power supply on top the old power supply, disconnect the old power supply one connector at a time, and connect the equivalent connector into the computer one power supply connector at a time. Once the new power supply is connected try powering on the computer. This tests the power supply.

A new power supply that provides more watts is fine. This means a 300 W power supply can be replaced by a 500 W power supply. It is best not to reduce power supply wattage (replace a 500 W power supply with a 300 W power supply), but OK to increase it. Power connections to floppy disk drives can easily short out the power supply when the connector is not plugged in precisely correct. If the computer does not turn on, then disconnect the floppy drive power and try with the floppy drive power disconnected. Finally, all power supply connections are keyed and have a connector clip. When connecting the power connectors make sure the connector clip is lined up correctly.

If the new transformer does not fix the laptop computer power, then you can return the laptop to the manufacturer for repairs or buy a new laptop. If you buy a new laptop, the data can be removed from the old laptop's hard disk drive and moved to the new laptop's hard disk drive. With a desktop PC, just un-bolt the old power supply and bolt in the new one. Replacing the power supply in a computer is cleaner and easier than replacing the spark plugs in a car.

Now let us return to our troubleshooting. The next possible error indication is that the computer does not boot and there is no display. Monitors have a light on the bottom right. When this light is green, the computer is sending a video signal to the monitor. If the light is a large, then the computer is not sending a video signal to the monitor.

When there is no video signal sent to the monitor, it indicates that the problem resides in the computer hardware. This suggests that we look inside the computer itself and check the Main Logic Board (MLB) capacitors (these are round tower like components that stick up from the MLB). Main Logic Boards fail when they are five years or older due to the capacitors on the MLB failing. The capacitors burst causing a complete failure of the MLB. When this occurs, the solution is purchasing a new computer.

When a computer is first powered on, it typically displays the BIOS setup information prior to attempting to start Windows. This information should flash briefly on the monitor as the computer starts. When it does, this shows that the computer itself and the display are operating properly. After this display, Windows can boot to a black or blue screen. The is sometimes referred to as the "blue screen of death". In either case there is no starting Windows. This error points to a failed hard disk drive. It typically means that the computer is working fine, but the disk drive has failed provide information to the computer needed to start Windows. Because you cannot boot into Windows, there is no way to test the disk drive. In this event the disk drive must be removed from the computer and attach to a another Windows computer for testing. The disk drive test command in Windows is CHKDSK /R. When this command is run in Windows, it tests the disk drive, corrects any data corruption on the disk drive, and determines if there are physical errors on the drive.

Physical drive errors are indicated by any number greater than zero in the bad sectors test results report. When physical errors or bad sectors are reported, it means that your disk drive has cancer. While the drive is not dead, it should be replaced immediately and the data copied from it to the new drive. Continued use of a drive with bad sectors, risks losing all the data on the drive. The difficult part of replacing a hard disk drive is copying all the data from the old drive to the new drive. There are programs that permit imaging the entire hard disk drive and then onto a new hard disk drive. If an image is successfully created and then copy to a new disk drive, the Windows computer often returns to normal operation as though nothing has happened.

In some cases when the Windows data is placed on a new disk drive, Windows still fails to start. In this event installing Windows over Windows for Windows XP or installing a fresh copy of Windows for Windows 7 typically fixes the problem. To install a completely fresh copy of Windows in either case (Windows XP or Windows 7) while preserving the data on the disk drive it is only necessary to delete the Windows folder from the drive on which the fresh copy of Windows is to be installed. It is also a good idea to rename the Documents and Settings or the Users folders so that the data contained in them is preserved.

This completes the basic PC hardware troubleshooting procedure. When a computer boots into Windows and still has problems, then it is likely a software issue. Software issues are commonly resolved by reinstalling Windows or by removing viruses and little use software from the computer. A complete procedure for removing viruses and spyware is beyond what I can present in this article. A detailed virus removal and spyware procedure is covered in my "Pete The Nerd's Do It Yourself Virus Removal" book. The goal of this article was to get you started in troubleshooting your PC and to give you some idea of what the next effective steps to pursue are so that you may return your PC to normal operation.

Thank you for your time.

Pete the Nerd
"Your Friend on a Technically Challenged Planet©"

©P D Moulton

If you spend hour after hour seated at your computer at home for work or entertainment reasons, it is important that you find computer desk furniture and chairs that are comfortable for your body, and help keep you from getting a bad back. It is also nice to have something that is great looking, and affordable. Computer workstations are often sets that come with computer desk furniture such as the desk, chair, and bookshelves. These stations often have a specific space for the computer, your monitor, your keyboard, and a place for storage.

You can also buy the pieces separately if you can't find what you are looking for in a workstation. Computer desk furniture can be found in retail department stores, home stores, furniture stores, and at office supply stores. You can find pieces that match, or you can mix and match your computer desk furniture to suit your needs. You can also look for computer desk furniture online. The downside to this is shipping costs, but many places will offer free shipping if you spend a certain amount of money. The furniture is then delivered to your door, and you can put it together yourself.

If you can't find what you are looking for, you can have your computer desk furniture built for you. Keep in mind that this will cost you more then buying ready-made pieces, but if you can afford the cost, this might be the way to go. When you do this, you can have your computer desk furniture built exactly like you want it. Don't forget about comfort when buying computer desk furniture. You don't want a desk that will cause you to bend in an uncomfortable position when you need to use your mouse. Don't buy something that has no place for your keyboard. If your keyboard is too high, you will soon develop pain in your wrist that can lead to carpel tunnel syndrome.

Computer desk furniture comes in a variety of colors and types of wood. Some wood is natural, while many others are a type of pressed wood. The natural wood will cost you more, but you may find it more pleasing to your eye. No matter what type of computer desk furniture you buy, keep care in mind. Some types of wood will warp in high humidity, and this type may not be the best buy if you live in an area that is generally humid. You must also keep the wood polished. If you have children, keep durability in mind when buying, and don't forget about sharp corners and other dangers when shopping for the perfect piece of computer desk furniture.

In the 19th century, the term computer referred to people who performed mathematical computations. But mechanical tabulating machines and calculators began to appear in the late 19th century and early 20th century, and in 1946, engineers J. Presper Eckert (1919-95) and John Mauchly (1907-80) built one of the first modern electronic computers, known as the Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer (ENIAC). ENIAC was an important advance but had some disadvantages - it was the size of a room, ran slowly, and often suffered failures in its electrical components. But since the 1940s, computers have evolved into fast and efficient machines that fill almost every niche in today's society.

The expanding role of computers has begun to encroach on tasks that require substantial thought - at least for a person. For example, in 1997, a computer called Deep Blue defeated Garry Kasparov, the reigning World Chess Champion at the time, in a chess match. Chess-playing computer programs have been routinely defeating novice chess players since the 1970s, but Deep Blue beat one of the best.

No one is certain how much more powerful - and possibly intelligent - computers will become in the 21st century. Computer Science, one volume of the multivolume Frontiers of Science set, explores six prominent topics in computer science research that address issues concerning the capacity of computers and their applications.

Although a computer may perform intelligent tasks, the performance of most machines today reflects the skill of computer engineers and programmers. None of the applications mentioned above would have been possible without the efforts of computer engineers who design the machines, and computer programmers who write the programs to provide the necessary instructions. Most computers today perform a series of simple steps, and must be told exactly which steps to perform and in what order. Deep Blue, for example, did not think as a person does, but instead ran a program to search for the best move, as determined by complicated formulas. A fast computer such as Deep Blue can zip through these instructions so quickly that it is capable of impressive feats of "intelligence."

But some computer scientists are working on making computers smarter - and more like humans. The human brain consists of complex neural networks that process sensory information, extract important features, and solve problems.

Speedy computations are essential in many of these operations, and fast computers can find solutions to complicated problems. Deep Blue's program, for instance, churned through millions of instructions every second to find the optimal chess move. But certain kinds of problems have remained intractable, even with the fastest computers. Many of these problems, such as factoring integers or finding the shortest distances in certain routes, have important practical applications for engineering and science, as well as for computer networks and economics. People can program computers to address these problems on a small scale - factoring a small number such as 20, or finding a route with only three cities to visit - but problems involving larger numbers require too much time.

An efficient method to solve these problems, if one is ever found, would have a tremendous impact, especially on the Internet. Personal and confidential information, such as credit card numbers, gets passed from computer to computer every day on the Internet. This information must be protected by making the information unreadable to all except the intended recipient. The science of writing and reading secret messages is called cryptology, and many techniques today could be broken - and their secrets exposed.

One of the most important human senses is vision. Images provide a wealth of information that is difficult or cumbersome to put into words. These days, images are often processed in digital form - arrays of numbers that computers can store and process. As computers become faster and smarter, people have started using these machines to perform functions similar to human vision, such as reading.

Searching for patterns is an integral part of many computer appli- cations - for example, looking for clues to crack a secret message, or sifting through the features of an image to find a specific object. Biologists have recently amassed a huge quantity of data involving genetics. Patterns in this kind of information contain vital clues about how organisms develop, what traits they have, and how certain diseases arise and progress. Overwhelmed by the sheer size of these data, which is the equivalent of thousands of encyclopedia volumes, biologists have turned to computer science for help.

Computers have made life easier in many ways, relieving people of boring and time-consuming tasks, but computers have also made life more complicated, forcing people to keep up with technological developments.

A fundamental element of research in computer science is the computer itself. Despite the efficiency of today's machines, the computer remains a frontier of science. The reason for this is the same as it was during the early years of computational technology.

In 1790, marshals of the newly formed government of the United States set out on horseback to perform the important mission of counting the country's population. Taking an accurate census was essential in order to apportion the number of congressional delegates for each district, as specified by the U.S. Constitution. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the census-takers manually compiled a list of 3,929,214 people in less than a year. Officials took another census each decade, and by 1880 the population had grown to 50,155,783. But census-takers had reached the breaking point - it took them almost the whole decade to finish tabulating the 1880 census, and the country continued to grow at an astonishing rate. Government officials feared that the 1890 census would not be completed before they had to begin the 1900 census.

The solution to this problem was automation. In response to a competition sponsored by the Bureau of the Census, Herman Hollerith (1860-1929), a young engineer, designed an automatic "census counting machine." Census personnel collected data - the plural of a Latin word, datum, meaning information - and encoded the information in the positions of holes punched in cards. These cards were the same size as dollar bills of the time, meaning that a stack of cards conveniently fit into boxes used by the Treasury Department. When operators inserted the cards into the machine, an electromechanical process automatically tabulated the population figures. Using Hollerith's machines, the 1890 census of 62,979,766 people was counted within a few months, and the statistical tables were completed two years later.

Hollerith formed a company, the Tabulating Machine Company, in 1896. The company changed its name in 1924 to International Business Machines (IBM) Corporation. IBM thrived, and is presently one of the world's largest companies.

Computational machines have also thrived. The need for speed and efficiency - the same needs of the 1890 census - motivated the development of computers into the ubiquitous machines they are today. Computers are in homes, offices, cars, and even spacecraft, and people carry portable computers known as notebooks or laptops whenever they travel. Yet the evolution of computers is by no means finished. One of the most active frontiers of computer science is the development of faster and more efficient computers, which may eventually transform the world as drastically as their predecessors did.

"Make my computer faster! Faster! Faster!" Does this sound familiar to those of you tech junkies out there who often dream of having a magic genie at your service to make your computer run faster? With processing power-hungry software like Adobe Premiere and World of Warcraft in existence today, it is a necessity for every individual to have the knowledge of speeding up his or her personal computer. Work or play, the acquisition of this knowledge is a must. For starters, I will provide 4 techniques to make your computer run faster than ever. You do not need a magic genie by the way.

Hardware wise, it would be a good idea to invest in quality hardware upgrades for your computer in order to make your computer run faster. If you purchased your computer some one year ago, chances are, the hardware inside the casing has probably already gone obsolete. Hardware that you can choose to invest in would include a module of RAM (random access memory), a new CPU chip or a new graphics card. The former two are necessary for all computer users as it enables computer programs to operate smoothly and be accessed at faster speeds. The role of the graphics card in boosting computer speeds can perhaps only be applicable to the computer gamer or graphics designer. A dedicated graphics card frees up memory space when processing memory-intensive graphic details or three dimensional objects. In any case, for the casual computer user, purchasing an additional module of RAM or upgrading your CPU chip would produce immediate returns through means of a noticeably faster computer.

It would be a good idea to minimize the number of objects on your desktop especially if you are running substantially older computers. Desktop icons consume a relatively large amount of resource and can result in noticeably slower start up times when you power up your computer. Minimize the number of shortcut icons placed on your desktop by removing those that are used the least frequently. Wallpapers on a desktop are also a cause for slow computer processing speeds. High resolution wallpapers can cause a great strain to your computer's resources. The higher the resolution, the larger the file space and the greater the subsequent strain to your system's resources. Remove all these and you would find yourself with a faster computer.

Provide sufficient space for the hard disk with which you installed your computer's operating system. For example, if you have installed Windows XP in Drive C, avoid over clogging this particular drive by installing too many software. Insufficient hard disk space where the computer's operating system is installed often leads to slow computer processing speeds. Give your operating system some allowance. If possible, partition your hard disk into two and install the bulk of your applications or store your files in the partition of the hard disk that does not contain the computer's operating systems.

Lastly, perform regular maintenance activities such as running a weekly registry cleaner or disk defragmentation exercise. Clutter tends to occur when programs are installed and subsequently deleted. Such clutter tends to clog up the computer's memory resulting in slower processing speeds. Deal with this issue by maintaining your computer regularly and you will be rewarded with a faster computer.

Speeding up your computer is not a difficult task. All it requires is the due diligence and consistency. Doing so will enable your computer to run faster, giving you greater returns in the long run.

If you are using operating system from Microsoft, you might be irritated sometimes when you encounter windows error on your computer screen. You must have known that the problem occurs because of your computer registry error. Is there a way to fix computer registry manually?

There are ways to fix computer registry manually, however it is advised to be avoided. The reason is because one minor mistake that you do to your system registry can lead to a fatal error, which means that you windows would be inoperable.

Even computer technicians will never do that. If they find out the problem is computer registry error, they would do only two things.
Fist is to reinstall the operating system so all the windows error disappear, this case happens when they can not fix them anymore. This would not be the choice because it takes a lot of time to do.
Second is to fix them with a simple software called the registry cleaner, this way is far simpler. A technician will only need less than five minutes to scan and fix the problem without having to understand the cause of the errors.

A computer can be totally inoperable only when people never maintain their computer registry. If they fix computer registry regularly when the accumulation of the corrupt files in registry is still small, they would not have to face memory dump or blue screen of death. They would not have to deal with a slow computer as well.

Every time you switch on the computer and run your windows operating system, the corrupt files occur because you do deletion, you run program, or you even surf in the Internet. However, if you scan and fix computer registry regularly, let say once a day. You will have a computer that runs a lot faster.

Registry cleaner helps people to do that automatically, so they do not have to concern about scanning and maintaining their computer registry everyday. It also allows you to optimized your computer and delete the unneeded files on your computers that make your computer runs slow.

Download the registry cleaner and Scan your computer for free at Computer Registry Error - How To Fix Computer Registry?.

Notebook computers have incresed in popularity over the last few years. This buldging market for notebook computers gives you more choice than ever before. The flipside is that the wide range makes it that much more difficult to choose the right notebook computer without a little knowledge.

The most important questions is always: What will I use my notebook computer for?

This driving question should lead all purchases. No amount of techno-babble should make you get something that you just don't need. Stay informed and you will get the best results from you notebook computer.

Notebook computers are, by nature, designed to be moved around easily. More than likely you will use it for work, this is the place where the most commuting takes place and the place you will most likely transport your computer to during the day.

Smaller notebook computers are never quite as fast as their slightly bigger counterparts. The small sizes don't allow for the latest and fastest parts that need a lot of breathing room as they can become very hot. Lot's of time away from a power source necessitates getting a good battery and having a computer than uses the battery efficiently. In the digital age, the internet is very important for many people, so wireless connectivity is essential. Applications on a notebook computer will probably consist of software like the Microsoft Office Suite or similar and a few other programs. Small monitors and limited processing power will rule out most serious gaming, but for a notebook computer it is hardly necessary considering what it is intended for. Fancy graphics cards are an option, but are hardly worth it as everything else plays against it, except if you get a huge, powerful laptop computer, which is very cumbersome. Let's look at these in a little more detail.

Consider carefully the size of notebook computer that you need. There are a lot of different sizes with notebook computers. Browsing around your local computer store will give you a much clearer picture of the sizes, even if you buy online, checking a real one out first is highly recommended. The size is pretty much dictated by the screen size, with sizes running past 15 inches in some cases. A notebook computer with a smaller screen makes it more portable. An option for a smaller notebook comptuer is a wider screen. WXGA and other wide screen formats give a little extra width, allowing a much more roomy desktop. They are usually in a 16:9 width to height ratio, while 4:3 is the desktop standard. This extra width is perfect as it allows you to keep two programs open side-by-side without closing them all the time.

The processor is the next major consideration when choosing your notebook computer. In a general sense they are usually toned down version of their desktop counterparts. They are clocked lower, meaning they run slower than intended, but the upside is much reduced power consumption which is good for battery life. Any processor should have enough clout for office type software. AMD and Intel are the major names for notebook computer processors, although Intel has the lion's share of the mobile computing market.

After these two major items, the other bits are really just extras. There is room to choose and pick with most of these other parts on your notebook computer.

Essential extras include USB ports, wireless networking capabilities, network port and modem port. USB is the standard for peripherals that connect to the notebook computer. Another one that is sometimes used for video and others is FireWire, it's useful to have, but not essential. Wireless networking is becoming standard, but make sure. There should be a convenient way to turn off the wireless card as they suck a lot of battery power when in use and can be turned off when not in use. A network port is so standard that there must be one, modem ports are so common they should not be missing.

Your DVD might be external or built-in, if it's external you could be choosy about which kind and brand you get, perhaps even a DVD writer. A DVD is not essential. If you notebook computer is a second computer and you have a main one at home, then you could forgo the DVD writer or the DVD drive altogether if you really need a compact notebook computer.

The mouse pad on the notebook should be easy to use and responsive. It should be out of the way enough not to interfere when typing. Keyboard layout needs to be good, even if it is smaller than standard.

Finally you might feel a little safer choosing a notebook computer from companies like Sony, Gateway, Dell, eMachines, Gateway, HP, Toshiba, Thinkpad, Acer or Fujitsu. They are all major notebook computer makers and will be able to back up their products with guarantees that they will deliver on.

Constantly I am asked by friends and family, why is my computer running so slow? They tell me that they bought a state of the art computer and when they first used it that everything was fantastic.

Then a couple of months later like clockwork, they always come back and say, something is wrong with my computer, it is acting just like the old one. Everything is real slow and they are stuck, waiting until it drives them up a wall.

I usually ask one simple question every time I hear that a computer is operating too slowly. I simply ask them how many programs do you have running in start-up on your taskbar?

Without hesitation they begin to check and it is often quite funny how they react. Most of the time people are unaware that they have multiple programs running on their computer at any given time.

Each of these programs on the task bar are working when called upon and some are actually working behind the scenes, beyond your senses. Especially anti-viral software programs are constantly traversing through your system to find any malicious activity or wanting to download new virus protection files.

When these programs are activated, each one is using some of your random access memory in your computer. If you have 96 Megs of RAM for example, then this is the amount of memory that operates these existing open programs and their uses.

To find exactly how much RAM is in your computer, simply click on Start and then locate 'My Computer'. Instead of left clicking, right click using your mouse, on 'my Computer' and a small 'list' will appear. Now move your mouse down the list until you see 'Properties'.

Click on properties and then it will give you a box with the description of what is in your computer. The RAM or Random Access Memory is usually the last thing on the front page that you will be viewing.

At any given time each running program is using up this memory. All memory is noted as having 100% usage, if you have 96Megs of Ram that is equal to 100%.

When any individual program is running behind the scenes of your system it is using a small percentage of the extra memory that is used to operate that program. A small software program such as ICQ could use as much as 3% of the available RAM in a 96mg system. And an anti-viral operation could use much more depending on what company's software you are using. Some of them could use as much as 30% or more of your available memory depending on how much you have. Even some ISP software systems such as AOL could use a significant portion of your available memory.

If you have multiple programs running in your computer at the same time, then it will begin to devour your memory and by virtue of all these separate programs needing so much memory, it will cause your entire system to bog down and literally crash. Today more and more people are buying computers with higher amounts of RAM. A few years ago your computer would be considered smokin' if you had 96MG of RAM!

Today by virtue of all of the accessories like, SPAM control, Virus watch, Hacker alerts etc. a single computer could easily eat 256 megs of RAM and the operator would not comprehend the delays, because they felt since they bought a incredibly fast processor and even some use High Speed Internet, they feel that they got robbed at the store where they purchased their model.

Last year I went to my wife's in-laws and this very thing occurred. They bought a super fast speed computer and they almost threw the darn thing out the window because it moved at a snails pace. They even called Computer experts to fix the problem and paid over $300.00. What they got was a used cheaper motherboard that had nothing to do with the problem and the computer was still slow as molasses.

They were in tears when I showed up, begging me to find the problem. I was on their computer for 5 minutes and located their problem. I went down to one of the computer stores in the area and purchased a 512MB chip for their model, at less than $50 and I easily installed it in the easy clip on inset within the tower and their computer began to fly like it had been when they first purchased it.

They were beyond grateful. They were ecstatic they thought they spent all of that money and all they had amounted to nothing more than a piece of junk.

Today I say, don't let anyone fool you. Simply check your RAM speed and locate all the programs on your task bar that function openly and behind the scenes. If you have 5 -10 or more running programs active at any given time and your computer is bogging down. Then chances are that you have a RAM problem.

Fixing your RAM problem is easy as pie. If you do not know what your particular computer can handle, simply locate your brand name on the Internet and research Extended Memory for that model. Find out what your capacity for that model is and add more Memory. If you are unable to add more memory it is most likely due to an older model that has been maxed out.

If this is your problem nothing you do outside deleting or removing active programs that are being used will help you! Doing so could be to your detriment to the vitality of your system. Many of these programs are protecting you from outside invaders and removing them could allow a fatal blow from a devious hacker.

People that travel on a regular basis are more than likely in need of having their computer come with. Business professionals, housewives, and students alike sometimes may find themselves feeling naked without their computer. Most of our information today is stored on our computers and to be without it can virtually shut us down. That is why having a laptop computer is a necessity in today's modern world.

If you do not have a laptop computer yet, you should know that one of the most important aspects of having a laptop computer is having a great power supply. Most laptop computers are run by a battery.You should know that on older laptops, batteries don't last more than an hour or two, so purchasing a new battery for the purpose of longer battery life may not be worth the expense. You need to consider many factors like size, weight, screen dimensions, battery life, keyboard quality, built-in memory, and also certain other options like wireless connectivity. These processors are fast and allow for long battery life.

Laptop computers are great portable offices, and as technology increases and speeds of computers increase, we are seeing battery life also increase and provide longer usage time with out the need to be "plugged in. So before you purchase a laptop computer, make sure that the battery life will last as long as possible.

Another thing to consider is the amount of memory that you will have on your computer. There are two types of memory: RAM and your hard drive. RAM is used for processing information and your hard drive is where all of your information and software programs are stored. There is a variety of different types of memory, and it is important that you choose memory that is compatible with your notebook computer. With the many different brands and models on the market, buying a laptop or notebook computer may at first seem confusing. Make sure you ask a professional before making your final purchase.

You should also ask yourself a few questions. Do you need this new laptop or notebook to be used mainly in the home, on the road, or at school? Do I need to buy a laptop computer or simply rent one? Most companies either buy or lease their laptop and notebook computers, but why or when should a company rent. Here are a few reasons for renting a laptop computer: If you need a wireless laptop computers for travel and all your company laptops and notebook computers are wired. Many laptops are equipped with a Universal Security Slot (USS) that allows the notebook to be attached to a cable lock. This way, you can always be assured of having the latest laptop computer available, and at the same time, not worry about losing your data when you trade it in.

Laptop computers are the wave of the future. As we progress with better and better technology, they will get smaller, faster, and more sleek and design each and every year. Don't let this hold you back. By a laptop computer and see how having your computer with you can virtually change your life for the better.

Today, many people rely on computers to do homework, work, and create or store useful information. Therefore, it is important for the information on the computer to be stored and kept properly. It is also extremely important for people on computers to protect their computer from data loss, misuse, and abuse.

For example, it is crucial for businesses to keep information they have secure so that hackers can't access the information. Home users also need to take means to make sure that their credit card numbers are secure when they are participating in online transactions. A computer security risk is any action that could cause loss of information, software, data, processing incompatibilities, or cause damage to computer hardware, a lot of these are planned to do damage. An intentional breach in computer security is known as a computer crime which is slightly different from a cybercrime. A cybercrime is known as illegal acts based on the internet and is one of the FBI's top priorities. There are several distinct categories for people that cause cybercrimes, and they are referred to as hacker, cracker, cyberterrorist, cyberextortionist, unethical employee, script kiddie and corporate spy.

*The Hacker.

The term hacker was actually known as a good word but now it has a very negative view. A hacker is defined as someone who accesses a computer or computer network unlawfully. They often claim that they do this to find leaks in the security of a network.

*The Cracker.

The term cracker has never been associated with something positive this refers to someone how intentionally access a computer or computer network for evil reasons. It's basically an evil hacker. They access it with the intent of destroying, or stealing information. Both crackers and hackers are very advanced with network skills.

*The Cyberterrorist.

A cyberterrorist is someone who uses a computer network or the internet to destroy computers for political reasons. It's just like a regular terrorist attack because it requires highly skilled individuals, millions of dollars to implement, and years of planning.

*The Cyberextortionist.

The term cyberextortionist refers to someone who uses emails as an offensive force. They would usually send a company a very threatening email stating that they will release some confidential information, exploit a security leak, or launch an attack that will harm a companies network. They will request a paid sum of money to prevent the threat from being carried out, a bit like black mailing.

*The Unethical Employee.

An unethical employee is an employee that illegally accesses their company's network for numerous reasons. One could be the money they can get from selling top secret information, or some may be bitter and want revenge.

*The Script Kiddie.

A script kiddie is someone who is like a cracker because they may have the intentions of doing harm, but they usually lack the technical skills. They are usually silly teenagers that use prewritten hacking and cracking programs. *The Corporate Spy.
A corporate spy has extremely high computer and network skills and is hired to break into a specific computer or computer network to steal or delete data and information. Shady companies hire these type people in a practice known as corporate espionage. They do this to gain an advantage over their competition an illegal practice.

Business and home users must do their best to protect or safeguard their computers from security risks. The next part of this article will give some pointers to help protect your computer. However, one must remember that there is no one hundred percent guarantee way to protect your computer so becoming more knowledgeable about them is a must during these days.

When you transfer information over a network it has a high security risk compared to information transmitted in a business network because the administrators usually take some extreme measures to help protect against security risks. Over the internet there is no powerful administrator which makes the risk a lot higher. If your not sure if your computer is vulnerable to a computer risk than you can always use some-type of online security service which is a website that checks your computer for email and Internet vulnerabilities. The company will then give some pointers on how to correct these vulnerabilities. The Computer Emergency Response Team Coordination Center is a place that can do this. The typical network attacks that puts computers at risk includes viruses, worms, spoofing, Trojan horses, and denial of service attacks. Every unprotected computer is vulnerable to a computer virus which is a potentially harming computer program that infects a computer negatively and altering the way the computer operates without the user's consent. Once the virus is in the computer it can spread throughout infecting other files and potentially damaging the operating system itself. It's similar to a bacteria virus that infects humans because it gets into the body through small openings and can spread to other parts of the body and can cause some damage. The similarity is, the best way to avoid is preparation. A computer worm is a program that repeatedly copies itself and is very similar to a computer virus. However the difference is that a virus needs to attach itself to an executable file and become a part of it. A computer worm doesn't need to do that, it copies itself to other networks and eats up a lot of bandwidth.

A Trojan Horse named after the famous Greek myth and is used to describe a program that secretly hides and actually looks like a legitimate program but is a fake. A certain action usually triggers the Trojan horse, and unlike viruses and worms it will not replicate itself. Computer viruses, worms, and Trojan horses are all classified as malicious-logic programs which are just programs that deliberately harm a computer. Although these are the common three there are many more variations and it would be almost impossible to list them. You know when a computer is infected by a virus, worm, or Trojan horse if your computer displays one or more of these things:

* Screen shots of weird messages or pictures appear.

* You have less available memory than you expected.

* Music or sounds plays randomly.

* Files get corrupted.

* Programs are files don't work properly.

* Unknown files or programs randomly appear.

* System properties fluctuate.

Computer viruses, worms, and Trojan horses deliver their payload or instructions through three common ways.

1 - When an individual runs an infected program so if you download a lot of things you should always scan the files before executing, especially executable files.

2 - When an individual boots a computer with an infected drive, so that is why it's important to not leave removable media in your computer when you shut it down.

3 - When an unprotected computer connects to a network. Today, a very common way that people get a computer virus, worm, or Trojan horse is when they open up an infected file through an email attachment.

There are literally thousands of malicious logic programs and new ones come out by the numbers so that's why it's important to keep up to date with new ones that come out each day. Many websites keep track of this. There is no known method for providing 100% protection for any computer or computer network from computer viruses, worms, and Trojan horses, but people can take several precautions to significantly reduce their chances of being infected by one of those malicious programs. Whenever you start a computer you should have no removable media in the drives. This goes for CD, DVD, and floppy disks. When the computer starts up it tries to execute a boot sector on the drives and even if it's unsuccessful any given virus on the boot sector can infect the computer's hard disk. If you must start the computer using removable media for any reason, such as when the hard disk fails and you are trying to reformat the drive make sure that the disk is not infected.

How can you protect your computer?

The best way to protect your computer from any of the above is by using good quality internet securities software. Purchasing this from a reputable security company is recommended to ensure that your software is kept up to date with the most recent virus signatures. If you are not up to date an unrecognised virus will not be stopped by the software. A full security package will protect you from viruses, Worms, Trojan horses, keyloggers and will detect when a hacker is attempting to hack into your computer and prevent them from gaining access when you are online or connected to a network. It is not advisable to use a free antivirus service as these do not provide adequate protection and are a false economy. Recommended internet security software companies are:- Norton, McAfee and others.

Computer forensics is the process of using the latest knowledge of science and technology with computer sciences to collect, analyze and present proofs to the criminal or civil courts. Network administrator and security staff administer and manage networks and information systems should have complete knowledge of computer forensics. The meaning of the word "forensics" is "to bring to the court". Forensics is the process which deals in finding evidence and recovering the data. The evidence includes many forms such as finger prints, DNA test or complete files on computer hard drives etc. The consistency and standardization of computer forensics across courts is not recognized strongly because it is new discipline.

It is necessary for network administrator and security staff of networked organizations to practice computer forensics and should have knowledge of laws because rate of cyber crimes is increasing greatly. It is very interesting for mangers and personnel who want to know how computer forensics can become a strategic element of their organization security. Personnel, security staff and network administrator should know all the issues related to computer forensics. Computer experts use advanced tools and techniques to recover deleted, damaged or corrupt data and evidence against attacks and intrusions. These evidences are collected to follow cases in criminal and civil courts against those culprits who committed computer crimes.

The survivability and integrity of network infrastructure of any organization depends on the application of computer forensics. In the current situations computer forensics should be taken as the basic element of computer and network security. It would be a great advantage for your company if you know all the technical and legal aspects of computer forensics. If your network is attacked and intruder is caught then good knowledge about computer forensics will help to provide evidence and prosecute the case in the court.

There are many risks if you practice computer forensics badly. If you don't take it in account then vital evidence might be destroyed. New laws are being developed to protect customers' data; but if certain kind of data is not properly protected then many liabilities can be assigned to the organization. New rules can bring organizations in criminal or civil courts if the organizations fail to protect customer data. Organization money can also be saved by applying computer forensics. Some mangers and personnel spent a large portion of their IT budget for network and computer security. It is reported by International Data Corporation (IDC) that software for vulnerability assessment and intrusion detection will approach $1.45 billion in 2006.

As organizations are increasing in number and the risk of hackers and contractors is also increase so they have developed their own security systems. Organizations have developed security devices for their network like intrusions detection systems (IDS), proxies, firewalls which report on the security status of network of an organization. So technically the major goal of computer forensics is to recognize, gather, protect and examine data in such a way that protects the integrity of the collected evidence to use it efficiently and effectively in a case. Investigation of computer forensics has some typical aspects. In first area computer experts who investigate computers should know the type of evidence they are looking for to make their search effective. Computer crimes are wide in range such as child pornography, theft of personal data and destruction of data or computer.

Second, computer experts or investigators should use suitable tools. The investigators should have good knowledge of software, latest techniques and methods to recover the deleted, encrypted or damaged files and prevent further damage in the process of recovery. In computer forensics two kinds of data are collected. Persistent data is stored on local disk drives or on other media and is protected when the computer is powered off or turned off. Volatile data is stored in random access memory and is lost when the computer is turned off or loses power. Volatile data is located in caches, random access memory (RAM) and registers. Computer expert or investigator should know trusted ways to capture volatile data. Security staff and network administrators should have knowledge about network and computer administration task effects on computer forensics process and the ability to recover data lost in a security incident.

The secret to computer repair is simple: you have to know and understand how your computer system works before you try to repair a problem. Repairing a computer is like any other type of repair; you must know how each separate part works in order to make the machine run. Once you have that knowledge, many of the problems that can go wrong with computers can be solved by using your compute knowledge in order to isolate and resolve the situation.

If you want to keep your computer from having to be repaired all you have to do is be vigilant about what goes on your computer. Spyware is a big threat to many computers. It tracks your moves and can steal your information. It also reduces the overall operating efficiency of your computer. Make sure you have an anti-spyware program that will find and destroy all the spyware on your system.

Another way to prevent your computer from needing any type of repair is to reduce the number of programs in the startup menu. You do not want to try to repair a slow computer that just has too much stuff on it. Instead, you can find the programs that your never use (ones that are automatically installed by the manufacturer) and getting rid of them. This will make your computer run much faster.

The last secret to keeping your computer running smoothly and not in need of repair is to get an anti virus program and keep it updated. An anti virus program that is never updated is of little use to your computers safety. New viruses are being developed all the time and in order to keep your computer safe and secure you will have to update your anti virus software at least two or three times a week. Make sure that your settings are also correct. This will ensure that your computer is being protected from most of the common viruses.

These are probably the first three areas that a computer repair specialist will check before they begin looking for another type of problem. If you computer is slow or no running as well as it should, the most common problems have to do with the programs that you have on your startup menu, your antivirus software, and your spyware software. If none of these are lacking, and you are still having a problem with your computer, you will need to check other areas of your computer in order to isolate the problem. This is where your knowledge of all the components in your computer will help you out. Most of the time, a problem with you computer is with the software. Something doesn't work right because of a certain setting or lack of space to correct the problem and have the computer function properly. Other problems with your computer can be with the hardware.

If you want to repair the hardware inside of your computer, you will first need to use some basic safety. Do not open up your computer's unit until you have all of the power shut off. That means unplugging it from the wall. Then you can open up the case and look for your problem. There are many components inside the computer, so make sure that you know what you are looking for before you begin working to repair the problems.

Remember those days when you are typing directly from your typewriter and placing a bond paper to capture what you are typing? Those days are obsolete. Computer systems are in. When we speak of computer systems, we are not only talking about the computer itself but also all the peripherals needed to run the computer plus the software necessary to make sure that it will function properly. Nowadays, we cannot hide from the reality that computer systems are very important in our day to day life. We cannot work on our research without the Internet, we cannot enjoy the convenience of ordering from eBay if we do not have a computer system established in our place and there won't be any Internet marketers if the computer system has not been invented. We are on the base of the high tech living and the computer (in the form of laptops, personal computer and tablets) is the vortex of it.

There are many ways a person can choose what type of computer system she or he must purchase. One significant idea is that before you buy any computer system you must first know what kind of system is compatible for you and your work. It is not really that easy with all the innovations in the computer systems right now. So if you are not a computer junkie then ask someone who knows a lot about computers what is good and what is not. You must also consider your budget intended for buying your computer system. If you can find a computer system that is great and suits your budget then its good for you.

It is also a help to check out the main components of the computer system you wish to buy. But if you have an expert friend, you will not have a problem on this area. It is hard to know the meaning of all the specs of a computer system if you know nothing about it. So let your computer junkie friend or the staff of the computer store explain it all for you. You can also ask what soft wares are given free in the purchase of a particular PC. One software that you should have are anti-virus soft wares that will help in filtering websites and cleaning out your computer system if it contracted a virus or a spy ware.

To wrap it up, selecting a computer system for your personal use is not really that hard. You just need to research and ask around what's best and what's not. Every part of the computer system is essential and needs to be check out.

Computer sales are on the rise. Research has shown that in the United States in 2005, personal computer sales rose 35%, and revenue increased 11%. This is compared to Thanksgiving 2004, when PC's sales increased only 7 % and revenue actually decreased by 3%. Notebook and desktop computers were the most impressive sellers during Thanksgiving week due to strong "Black Friday sales," according to Current Analysis. Black Friday sales occur on the day following Thanksgiving. Several manufacturers of computers benefited during this time including HP, Gateway and Toshiba. Windows and Apple computers made a respectable showing as well. The most popular computer sold in this time period was the Notebook. It led the way in sales, overselling desktops computer by 4%. Still, desktop computer rose 23% year-over- year compared to 2004.

s far programs and service goes, there is more home and entertainment software available for Windows computers than for Macs. However, Macs repeatedly score at or near the top in tech support and reliability. In fact, statistics show that Apple is rated more than 20 points ahead of all the other computer manufacturers for technical support.

Whether to by a PC or a MAC is a big question asked by many. Just keep in mind that PCs use Widows OS and are built by numerous brands including Gateway, Dell, Acer, Compaq, Hewlett-Packard, etc. Macintosh computers are in a class by themselves. The myth that MACs crash more than PC is unfounded because of those name brands that manufacturer PCs, several have been known to crash. Others did prove to be invincible - the key is there is more than one manufacturer.

As far as programs go, MACs do run fewer programs than PCs, but you can put Microsoft Windows on MAC computers and run them.

Are you wondering "why does my computer run slow"? You must have a computer that is running very slow right now, and you are frustrated by it because you cannot complete what you want quickly. I knew I used to have a computer that slowed down, and after researching on the causes for a computer to slow down, I was finally able to restore my computer back to its original speed. This article will explore the main reasons for a slow computer, and how to fix the problem easily.

1. System Registry Errors

This was my main problem when my computer started running slow. Many computer users have no idea about what a computer registry is, or how to maintain it.

The registry keys in the registry are just as important as any other part of the system. They contain instructions that tell the hardware or software in your computer how to run. Over time, your computer's registry entries can become very messy, because the computer does not always restore the default settings after running the programs. Over time the problem becomes worse, and your programs will take a very long time to find the instructions to run properly.

I was finally able to speed up my computer after cleaning out my computer registry. If you suspect that you might have errors in your computer registry too, you can visit my website link at the end of this article to learn more about the top registry cleaners.

2. Virus

Your computer could be infected with a virus if you download files from the internet regularly. This is another reason why a computer may run slowly. If you do not have an anti-virus software installed on your computer, you can download an antivirus software by doing a Google search for it.

In the case that the viruses on your computer become impossible to remove, you may need to install Windows on your computer again. Remember to back up your data too if you decide to reformat.

3. Insufficient RAM

Insufficient RAM is also one of the reasons why your computer may be running slow. If this is really the main cause for your computer to run slow, you will need to upgrade the RAM on your computer. If you have purchased your computer yourself, you may already be anticipating this problem if you know that the RAM is low.

For a Windows XP computer, any amount of RAM lower than 512mb is probably insufficient to provide a good user experience. To check your own computer RAM, you can go to the "My Computer" icon, right click it and choose "Properties".

4. Spyware and Adware

Your computer may be infected by too many spyware and adware. These files cause your computer to slow down. This is another reason that is very frequent amongst computer users who visit many free download websites on the internet. These spyware are meant to sit on your computer and track your browsing activities. They then send back the information to their main sites.

To remove all the spyware on your computer, you can download a spyware cleaner from their internet and it should be able to detect and remove all of the spyware and adware.

Computers are used by millions of people. Internet usage has become an integral part of everyday life. Computer rooms are often rented out for training, seminars and business purposes. They need to be clean and no food or beverage is allowed into the workspace.

Computer technology is advancing rapidly making parts smaller and more powerful, and a group of computers can be contained into a very small space. Rented rooms that house computers must be well ventilated in order to provide proper circulation. The computer rooms must also be equipped with fast and reliable fire extinguishing systems that can put out a fire in seconds ensuring the safety of the occupants of the room, as well as the safety of the computers. Many organizations offer beginner and advanced computer training programs. They prefer to hold these sessions in rented computer rooms as it is more cost effective and save the company time and space.

There are rented rooms for computer activities with complete setup that include projectors and other related equipment. Individuals who are into the software development field prefer using a rented room, because the setup allows them to give their undivided concentration and attention. The room is designed to keep distractions on the outside and concentration on the inside. There are computer rental rooms available at reasonable rates for students and computer professionals. They are designed with all the necessary facilities including an Internet connection with phones. One must comply with all the rules and regulations that apply to these rooms and a deposit may be required for damages.

Computer firewall is a piece of software or hardware that helps screen out hackers, viruses, and worms that try to reach your computer over the Internet. If you are a home user or small-business user, using a firewall is the most effective and important first step you can take to help protect your computer. Firewall will not make your computer completely safe. However, a firewall provides the most effective first line of defense. Windows computers can be attacked in many ways - and not just with viruses, worms, or Trojan horses. Another popular way to attack a Windows computer is to attempt to communicate to it over any of the network "ports" found on Windows computers. These ports are kind of like TV channels or radio frequencies: Computers are set up to listen for messages that may arrive from other computers - this is how they communicate with one another.

How computer firewall works

Firewalls monitor all the communication between your computer and the Internet. computer firewall knows what kind of communication are allowed to flow in and out. They know this because they have something called an "access control list" - a list of rules that specify precisely what kinds of communications are allowed and what kinds are blocked. The computer firewalls made for the consumer market are usually preconfigured to offer maximum protection right out of the box. The configuration required to facilitate communication between two computers in a home network makes them highly vulnerable to attack from any computer on the Internet. Whether the firewall is a hardware device connected to your network, or a software program in your computer, a computer firewall will automatically block all unwanted network communication from the Internet, while at the same time permitting any legitimate communication that you need to use your computer.

Type of computer firewall

There are two principal types of computer firewall: hardware and software. A hardware computer firewall is a device connected to the network in such a way that all communications between any computer and the Internet must pass through the firewall and be examined to see whether they should be discarded or allowed to pass through. A software computer firewall is a program that runs on a computer and performs the same type of examination of network communications that a hardware firewall does. But where a hardware firewall can protect all of the computers on a network, a software firewall only protects the computer it is running on.

Things you need to know

Running multiple software firewalls is unnecessary for typical home computers, home networking, and small-business networking scenarios. Using two firewalls on the same connection could cause issues with connectivity to the Internet or other unexpected behavior. One firewall, whether it is the Windows XP Internet Connection Firewall or a different software firewall, can provide substantial protection for your computer. If your computer is not protected when you connect to the Internet, hackers can gain access to personal information on your computer. They can install code on your computer that destroys files or causes malfunctions. They can also use your computer to cause problems on other home and business computers connected to the Internet. A Firewall helps to screen out many kinds of malicious Internet traffic before it reaches your computer. Some firewalls can also help to prevent other people from using your computer to attack other computers without your knowledge. Using a firewall is important no matter how you connect to the Internet - with a dial-up modem, cable modem, or digital subscriber line (DSL or ADSL). So it is wise to turn on the Windows Internet Connection Firewall for all computers in your home network. This helps prevent the spread of viruses or worms across your network if a computer is infected. A computer on the network could become infected through a separate Internet connection, such as one on a laptop that is used on your home network and on public networks. Or a virus could be introduced to a computer on your network by way of e-mail or software installed from a CD or floppy disk. If you have more than one computer in a home or small-office network, you should protect every computer in the network. Turning on Windows Firewall or another firewall on every connection will help prevent the spread of a virus from one computer to another in your network if one of your computers becomes infected. However, if you open an infected e-mail attachment, the firewall won't block it and it can infect your computer. You should install an antivirus program as well.