Computer Hardware Main Components described and their functions explained

MOTHERBOARD

The motherboard is a set of computer hardware components arranged so that they are physically connected and can easily communicate between each other. The motherboard makes it easy to attach all major hardware components of a computer. In what follows we will discuss these components.


CPU(Central Processing Unit)

The CPU is the most important piece of hardware in any computer. It manages all of the computer operations, calculations and tasks and manages, command and direct all the other components of a computer system.

Different CPU run at different speeds where the speed here is measured in terms of number of basic operations (cycles) per unit of time (usually the second). It is usually expressed in gigahertz. (1 gigahertz = 109 cycles / second)

Usually a computer with a higher CPU speed runs faster, however it is important to understand that there are other computer hardware items that greatly affect the speed of a computer.

The CPU has two major parts: The Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) which carry all arithmetic and logic operations and the Control Unit which manages and control all instructions.

RAM(Random Access Memory)

The RAM makes space available for your computer to read and write data to be accessed by the CPU. The computer reads data from a RAM faster than reading it from the hard drive and therefore adding more RAM to your computer makes it run a lot faster. RAM does not retain data when the computer is switched off hence the name of volatile memory.
ROM(Read Only Memory)

ROM contains data that cannot be modified and hence retain it even when the computer is switched off.
MODEM(Modulator-Demodulator)

A modem is an electronic device that enables a computer to communicate with other computers over a network. A modem, for example, allows you to connect to the internet using cables and telephone lines. Information in a computer is in digital form whereas information sent over telephone lines is analog. The modem converts digital information into analog and vice versa.
Sound Card

A sound card enables the computer to produce sounds to be broadcast through speakers and also to process sounds received through a microphone.
Graphics Card

Graphics cards enable the computer to transform data into pictures to be displayed on the monitor. Many graphics cards now have their own RAM and "coprocessor" which make them faster at processing data and displaying it.
Input Devices

Output devices are used to enter data into the computer and also instruct it on what to do. The keyboard, mouse, touchpad, joystick, microphone and scanner are all examples of input devices.
Output Devices

The monitor, printer, speakers are all exmaples of output devices. Their function is to transform all output information into text, animated and static images and sound.

Information and communications technology

Information and communications technology places all learners on an equal footing. Given the right hardware, software and curriculum activities, even severely physically disadvantaged pupils can achieve the same degree of success as anyone else.

Information and communications technology has been shown to have benefits in terms of motivating pupils. That comes about partly through factors like being able to produce nice-looking work with no teacher’s red marks all over it, and partly because the computer is seen as being impartial and non-judgemental in its feedback to the pupil.

Information and communications technology enables pupils to gather data that would otherwise be difficult or even impossible to obtain. For example, data from inaccessible places (eg outer space), inaccessible times (eg overnight), from both overseas and nationally on demand (without having to physically go anywhere) or data at very precise time intervals.

Information and communications technology enables pupils to gather data that would otherwise be time-consuming or costly or both. For example, pupils can use the internet to get up-to-the-minute information on prices. They can use a DVD or the internet to watch movies of old dictators speaking, or the moon landings, or to listen to a piece of music by Mozart.

Information and communications technology enables pupils to experiment with changing aspects of a model, which may be difficult or even impossible for them to do otherwise. For example, pupils of Business Studies and Economics can see what might happen to the economy if interest rates were raised or lowered. Pupils can use webcams to capture the development of an egg or a plant.

Information and communications technologyenables pupils to draft or redraft their work until they are satisfied with it.

Another reason to use ICT in lessons is because it can help to implement personalised learning.

Pupils usually enjoy using computers and other types of technology, so lessons which make use of it start off with an advantage (which is all too often squandered).

Educational technology puts the pupil in control (if it is well-designed), enabling her to personalise the interface, select and create resources, and even choose what to learn.

Just about every aspect of modern life involves educational technology; therefore, to not make use of it in the curriculum is anachronistic.

Because educational technology pervades all aspects of modern society, schools have a duty of care to ensure that pupils understand issues such as keeping safe online, protecting their identity, recognising good and misleading information sources on the internet, the effects of educational technology on communications and the economy, to name but a few issues.

Where information and communications technology is taught well, it has been shown to enhance pupils’ levels of understanding and attainment in other subjects. That’s because “real” ICT is more about thinking skills than about mastering particular software applications.

Information and communications technology can provide both the resources and the pedagogical framework for enabling pupils to become effective independent learners. For example, computer programs are available that adjust themselves to the pupils’ level and then set appropriate tasks and give feedback on performance. Used wisely, these can help pupils to move on.

Also, newer technologies such as Web 2.0 applications enables pupils and others to collaborate in ways that reflect a broadly constructivist approach to education.

Cloud computing is rapidly growing hosting solutions

One of the most common concerns with cloud hosting is the idea that it is less secure and reliable than in-house hosting. In truth, cloud hosting is generally very secure, and far more data breaches take place in corporate data centres than among hosting providers. But nevertheless, there are instances where, for the time being, companies may wish to exercise a note of caution. For example, from small business hosting to larger corporations, a great many businesses avoid using public cloud computing for extremely sensitive financial information, or anything that requires compliance with the rules of the Payment Card Industry (PCI). Quite often, solutions which need to meet strict security and compliance specifications are best housed on private cloud solutions.

Cloud computing is at an early stage, with a motley crew of providers large and small delivering a slew of cloud-based services, from full-blown applications to storage services to spam filtering.  Today, for the most part, IT must plug into cloud-based services individually, but cloud computing aggregators and integrators are already emerging.

A cloud service has three distinct characteristics that differentiate it from traditional hosting. It is sold on demand, typically by the minute or the hour; it is elastic -- a user can have as much or as little of a service as they want at any given time; and the service is fully managed by the provider (the consumer needs nothing but a personal computer and Internet access). Significant innovations in virtualization and distributed computing, as well as improved access to high-speed Internet and a weak economy, have accelerated interest in cloud computing

Cloud computing is rapidly growing in popularity and general awareness, to a point where businesses of all sizes are looking into whether the medium is appropriate for their needs. So, what sort of businesses can cloud hosting effectively and securely handle? The simple answer is - all of them. From small business hosting to larger corporations, cloud computing can make your business more affordable and versatile. However, this doesn't necessarily mean it should replace all of your existing hosting solutions.

The best way to approach cloud hosting is to see it not as an all-or-nothing proposition, but as a way to streamline your IT requirements at appropriate points. Examine all of the functions of your current hosting solution and think about whether it could benefit from multi-tenant cloud computing, in-house hosting or a combination of the two.
Another option is to combine multi-tenant cloud hosting with a broader kind of cloud computing - wherein traditional managed hosting is performed on servers that are dedicated to specific customers, but are owned and managed by a hosting provider. Top-line hosting providers are generally more reliable and secure than in-house data centres, and can still cut down your IT overheads significantly.

Cloud computing comes into focus only when you think about what IT always needs: a way to increase capacity or add capabilities on the fly without investing in new infrastructure, training new personnel, or licensing new software. Cloud computing encompasses any subscription-based or pay-per-use service that, in real time over the Internet, extends IT's existing capabilities.

If you are interested in engaging with cloud hosting and would like some more information, talk to a dedicated and reputable hosting company to find out what package would be best suited to your business. The natural versatility of cloud hosting allows for a tailored hosting package to be constructed around the unique needs of your business, so don't be afraid to shop around to find out as much as you can before committing to a plan. It could be one of the most important decisions you make for your business.

Rackspace Hosting is the World's leader in hosting and cloud storage. Since 2001 Rackspace has been hosting and supporting mission critical websites, internet applications, email servers, security and storage services for 6,000 customers.

The author of this article has expertise in cloud hosting. The articles on small business hosting reveals the author's knowledge on the same. The author has written many articles on different types of hosting as well.


A major benefit of taking a hybrid approach to hosting is that you can cut your overheads on IT, storage and general maintenance, without taking too much of a risk. Until cloud computing evolves to a point where it is the norm, an innovative, open-minded approach to hybrid hosting could give you a significant advantage over your rivals who are slower to pick up on new opportunities.

Speed Up Your Computer With this steps

10 Simple Tricks to Speed Up Your Computer

Using these 10 simple tricks, you can bring your sluggish PC back to its former peppy self. These tips are quick and easy to do, most using the help of free software.

Trick 1 - Always run an active virus scanner.

Whether you choose a free option or a paid subscription, active monitoring prevents many problems before they occur. If something does sneak through, you are already one-step closer to resolving the problem.

Trick 2 - Only install software that you trust and use regularly.

Many times a slow of a PC is the result of a too many programs running in the background. This is especially true of older PCs, as they tend to collect more and more programs and data as time goes on.

Trick 3 - Regular registry cleaning.

When you uninstall a program, there are often traces left in the Windows Registry. The Windows Registry is like a map, telling your computer where things are and how to use them. As the registry grows in size, so does the time it takes the computer to use it. Manual registry cleaning is not recommended, however, tools such as PC Tune Up can help safely keep your registry free of errors.

Trick 4 - Reboot your PC regularly.

With all the installs, uninstalls, updates and changes constantly occurring on your PC, it never hurts to give it a quick reboot. This ensures memory is available and any important system or application updates are applied.

Trick 5 - Cut down on graphical 'flair'.

Simply setting your Windows theme to classic or basic modes can free up a surprising amount of resources to give that extra zip back to your PC.

Trick 6 - Desktop Widgets.

These can add up to substantial memory and processor usage. Determine if the convenience of having them constantly on display is worth the loss of performance and remove unnecessary tools.

Trick 7 - Install Google Chrome.

If you have checked out this latest contender in the Internet Browser wars, take the few minutes to do so. While it may take a minute to figure out the subtle changes from your current browser, it is one the fastest and most responsive browsers available.

Trick 8 - Physically clean your PCs air intakes and exhausts.

When your computer gets too warm, it has to decrease performance to prevent damage. Avoid vacuums and liquids and they can create electrical issues. A small paintbrush will do the trick just fine.

Trick 9 - Keep your important programs up-to-date.

Simply find, and enable, the auto-update feature of your favorite programs. These updates are often important fixes or performance boosts.

Trick 10 - Update your graphics card drivers.

These days Intel, ATI or nVidia make most graphics cards. All three companies have easy-to-use websites that will detect your video card and update your drivers.

Follow these 10 simple tricks, and your computer will always be in its best shape.

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Cloud Computing :what is cloud computing and what are the benefits?

Although many conversations center around cloud computing, few of the participants can accurately describe basic questions, such as what is cloud computing and what are the benefits? Most people agree that cloud computing will become a vital part of how people do business. But the question is, how? In this three-part series, we will attempt to clear up common misconceptions about what cloud computing is, what it can do, and what it may eventually encompass.

Part One: What Is It?

In its simplest terms, cloud computing can be described as a way to house data and applications in remote central servers that can be accessed and updated by multiple users simultaneously. Essentially, a standard desktop or laptop computer becomes a portal where users tap into programs or information through the internet. However, the way that users access the information or applications is not quite as simple as logging into a website. The platforms that manage or enable access, as well as the actual application themselves, and the infrastructure required to coordinate all of these elements, form the basic elements of cloud computing.

Google's App Engine is an example of a platform, where users may access the apps through the platform. The apps themselves provide functions or services that are based on data collected from a variety of different sources. Some applications are more specific to industry, such as a sales software suite that tracks the individual calls and progress of a team of roaming representatives who can input their information from a mobile device into a centralized application that displays all information in real time. The fee systems for these services constitute the infrastructure.

Because it is still relatively new, some development companies specialize in one area, while other companies have attempted to build a more cohesive model that offers all three principal components. Most of the money currently made by cloud computing is generated by who pays for the storage/operation fees. Several applications require users to pay for a server which runs all of their software and applications, while others charge users a licensing or subscription fee to use their applications. These licensing fees cover the cost of running the server. Companies benefit from this arrangement principally because off-site dedicated servers are cheaper to maintain and house than in-house versions. Additionally, the hazard of software crashes and subsequent data loss is eliminated by virtue of the enormous operating power of the remote central servers.

With this broad overview in mind, in tomorrow's article we will explore the most common implementations of cloud computing.

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Online Degree Program And Courses

It is observed that only few years back the only way to complete college and earn a degree was to attend the colleges personally. But nowadays a much easier and faster option has emerged where people can attain higher education with the help of internet. The people can get bachelors ad post graduate degree much easily without wasting much of our precious time. Therefore with the help of online degree programs one can get quality education and training which students do in campus.

It is quite wrong to think that online degree does not involve dynamic process. It is a true fact that any goal which does not involve a plan does not work out effectively. In case one fails to plan then they are definitely preparing themselves to fail. Therefore it is a must for every individual to assure that they make use of their precious time wisely and effectively. For the purpose online education one is required to possess highly reliable computer as the process of education completely based online and the computer must possess all the latest features that are reliable for online studies.

While selecting any degree program one must assure that they have selected the course that is categorized under accredited online degree programs. It is so that it is of no use to spend time and money on the course does not offer any employment scope in the near future. One must select the online school that possess sound record and experience in providing online degrees. Therefore after selecting the right online school one must pay attention to the schedule as well before seeking admission in an online degree program as it is very important to manage the time effectively.

One must carefully understand each and every aspect of the course and institute selected by them and the most important thing that needs to be considered are technical support offered by the college as the lectures are conducted online and all the sources depend upon the internet therefore the student may require assistance of experts anytime as and when required by them. Lastly one must assure that the course selected by them is accredited online degree program that offers wide career opportunity to them. The main aim of the student must be to attend online school and they must carefully search over net for the careers that have wide scope and can be attained by online degree program.

In this article Terence has focused on the importance of online degree programs and why these are getting more popular now a days.

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Advantages and Disadvantages Of Online Education

With all of the different choices available now for continuing your education, how can one decide what is best? It can be very hard to muddle through all of the information and find what is best for you. If you are considering an online degree program, we have listed a few advantages and disadvantages for online degrees. We can't make the decision for you but we can supply you with the facts.

Advantages:

1. Flexibility. This can be a broad concept when talking about online degrees, but the flexibility allows you a lot of freedom. You can attend school and work it around your personal and professional obligations and you are able to "attend" school wherever there is a computer.

2. Improves your computer skills. You will constantly be on the computer and the internet so you will quickly learn to better navigate your way. You now have all of your knowledge at your fingertips.

3. More opportunities to be involved. You might wonder how you can do this behind a screen, but that screen has been shown to help get students more involved in class discussions. Since you do not have the actual fear of someone next to you making fun of you for raising your hand it has been proven that students participate more and digest the information better.

Disadvantages:

1. Lack of motivation. If you lack motivation in your everyday then getting an online degree may not be best for you. When you are on your schedule, you have to force yourself to be disciplined in learning the material. Only you can determine your success.

2. Lack of social interaction. When you attend a traditional school there is constantly things happening and you always see people. When you attend an online degree program there are days when you won't leave your house and your face to face connection with others will not happen.

3. Computer issues. Yes, this can be a disadvantage also. There are a million things that can happen with your computer and internet and they usually happen at the worst times. It will be important to always have a plan B in place in case your internet goes down or your computer dies.

Only you can decide what learning environment is right for you. Now that there is less of a stigma about obtaining an online degree, you are able to have more options. Whatever way you choose, you are one step further to your next degree.

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m learning: the Global Classroom Of Online Education

Adults and adolescents with Atopic Dermatitis in the USA, expectant mothers in Ghana, young teachers in Finland and pharmacists in Uganda all have one thing in common, they are part of the growing mobile

learning community, or mLearning. Educators use cell phones, PDAs, laptops, and other mobile devices to

reach students who are mobile, are isolated, lack internet access, or have limited resources for travel but have a mobile phone. mLearning in action. When 90% of the world’s population has access to a mobile phone, according to the International Telecommunication Union, it is no surprise that educators have already realized the potential of mobile devices to enhance and extend the classroom.

Adults and adolescents with Atopic Dermatitis in the USA received information and medication reminders via text (or SMS) from Massachusetts General Hospital. Throughout the study, 96% of the participants changed at least one behavior after receiving informational texts about self-care practices. These patients are not alone in their improved health behavior due to educational texts. In Kenya, patients undergoing Advanced Retroviral Therapy for HIV received text reminders about their dosage and appointments and had positive behavioral change related to their adherence to their treatment in a recent study. Expectant mothers in Ghana received voice and text messages regarding self-care during pregnancy and the care of their children. But sure, mobile phones can help adherence to medication regimens, improve information about healthcare and self-care and serve as reminders of appointments, but what about extending the more traditional classroom?

Young teachers in Finland use mobile phones during the teacher training period that includes heavy travel to and from training sites, to send feedback to other trainees, receive feedback from supervising teachers, to report back to supervising teachers, and to send photos of trainees and their classes back and forth to trainees and instructors. Using mobiles to send photos enhances the learning experience by connecting participants immediately through their own eyes. Students in Uganda also engaged in mLearning to extend their research while they travelled throughout rural regions of the country. These students communicated with their research supervisor via their mobile to reach benchmarks on the research progress and to overcome electricity and internet limitations at their research locations. The study recommends to combine mLearning tools, especially voice calls and SMS texts with more traditional distance learning approaches, using the internet when possible. Pharmacists in Uganda had the same experience as they underwent a “Virtual Pharmaceutical Training program” online and recommended the addition of mobile technologies and other blended approaches to eLearning.

mLearning in resource constrained environments presents an opportune space for teachers and instructors to reach their students more conveniently and efficiently. mLearning for adult education is only one form and the examples listed here are not exhaustive. Children who have access to mobile devices send SMS questions to teachers, teachers SMS parents regarding student progress, and learning laptops reach students in resourced environments. The important aspect of mLearning is that it is scalable to the needs and resources of students and teachers, patients and doctors, rural clinics and urban hospitals. As Jordan Hosmer-Henner discussed in his post “Marking the m-Health Movement,” mobile technologies are a game changer for development entrepreneurs throughout the world. mLearning is one more way mobile technologies are expanding the way we think and the way we interact with each other, making the classroom truly global.

How to Make Your Internet Connection Faster, Better

OpenDNS to the Internet Connection Performance Rescue

Have you ever pointed your browser to a Web site and had to wait an inordinately long time for the page — or at least the full page — to load? This kind of slow browsing experience can be traced to a variety of causes, but among the most common are problems with the servers that are responsible for actually locating all the sites you visit, your DNS (Domain Name Service) servers.

A free service called OpenDNS can not only help your browser display Web pages faster it also offers some useful fringe benefits such as address typo correction and phishing protection, plus site blocking, content filtering and more. Before we delve into how to use OpenDNS, let's briefly outline how the DNS system works for those who may not be familiar with it.

What's the Deal with DNS?

Every time you type a Web site address like www.practicallynetworked.com into your browser, that "friendly" address needs to be translated into the actual IP address for the computer hosting that site. The job of the DNS server is to take the text address you type in, look it up against a database of IP addresses, and then return the correct address to your browser so that the site can be accessed.

 The DNS database is actually distributed across countless servers all over the Internet, but the specific DNS server(s) you use are generally provided by your ISP. When your router obtains its IP address information from your ISP (usually through DHCP), the addresses for the DNS servers are provided as well. These DNS server addresses are in turn passed along to each of your computers via DHCP on your own network so that they all know where to go to look up Internet addresses.

Long story short: If DNS servers get overloaded or experience other technical problems, they may take a long time to respond to lookup requests or they may not respond at all. Some ISPs are better than others when it comes to maintaining their DNS servers, but problems are not at all uncommon. Sometimes when your Internet connection seems to be down, it may be fine but simply appear down because your ISP's DNS isn't working properly.

But you don't necessarily need to use your ISP's DNS servers, which brings us back to OpenDNS. OpenDNS, which has been around for about 18 months, is a free DNS service anyone can use, and is more than likely faster and more reliable than the one you're using now. (I've been using it for almost a year now and like many others have found the performance to be excellent.)

How to Use OpenDNS

So how can you take advantage of OpenDNS? All you need to do is go is update your router's DNS settings via its administrator control panel. After you've logged into your router, look for settings related to DNS — the exact location will vary depending on your router, but you'll often find it under the LAN heading or sometimes even on the first settings page you see.

When you find the DNS configuration area, you'll probably see that it's set to automatically obtain DNS servers from your ISP. Select the option that allows you to specify your own DNS server addresses, and then enter 208.67.222.222 as the primary DNS and 208.67.220.220 as the secondary DNS (as you might guess, the secondary is used if the primary isn't available).

Your router may or may not reboot itself once you apply the new DNS settings, but in order to make sure each of your computers is using the OpenDNS servers, you should manually obtain a new DHCP address for each of them. An easy way to do this in XP is to right-click your network connection's tray icon and select Repair. In Vista, you can verify that a particular system is using OpenDNS if you see "You're using OpenDNS" message when you browse to welcome.opendns.com.)

After some time spent using OpenDNS, you should notice that your browser generally takes less time to find and display Web sites. Even if you don't see a perceptible increase in performance, you'll still be able to benefit from several security and convenience features. For starters, OpenDNS can fix typos in the URLs you type, so if you accidentally type www.practicallynetworked.cmo — or .co, or .cm — you'll still be taken to the site you intended instead of being greeted by error message, or worse, an ersatz site from Cameroon (which owns the .cm domain).

If you happen to type a nonexistent site name, instead of a not found error you'll see an OpenDNS Guide page with suggested alternate links (as well as some sponsored ones, which help keep OpenDNS free). For example, I sometimes inadvertently try to access the PracticallyNetworked.com site by typing in "pracnet.com" (PracNet is an internal nickname for the site), and when I do, PracticallyNetworked.com is first among the OpenDNS suggested links. Last but not least, using OpenDNS also gets you automatic phishing protection, so if the site you want to go to is known for phishing, OpenDNS won't take you there.

Windows 7 for Best performance Of Your Computer

Yet questions still remain about upgrading to the new OS, how Windows 7 works compared to Vista, and whether there will be any serious compatibility issues once Windows 7 is finally installed on computers across the United States.

There are a lot of questions out there about Windows 7, and I have answers. I've gone through the PC World vault to find all the information you need about upgrading, the pros and cons of buying a new system, Windows 7 security, and more. With this handy guide at your side, you'll be able to embrace everything Windows 7 has to offer.

Upgrade to Windows 7

Upgrading to a new Windows OS is always filled with questions, like which version of Windows 7 is for me? How much does it cost? Should I even bother upgrading at all?

Check out our Windows 7 Upgrade FAQ to read up on the numerous editions of the OS, and to find pricing information. But you may want to hold off on upgrading since Windows 7 upgrade fees could go down in the near future.

If you're still trying to decide whether the new OS is for you, here is why you should upgrade to Windows 7, and reasons why you shouldn't bother. We also have information about an online tool that tells you if your PC is upgrade-ready.

But if you're ready to make the switch, be sure you go through PC World's Windows 7 upgrade checklist, and the installation how-to guide. They can help ease you through the process. If you're a business owner, you should also read over these four tips for smooth upgrades to Windows 7.

Windows XP users may find the upgrade process too difficult, but we've got an XP-to-Windows 7 upgrade guide to make it easier. Netbook owners should also check out how you can get from XP to Windows 7 in just 30 minutes. But even if you decide to stick with XP, that doesn't mean you can't have some of the great new functionality in Windows 7. See how you can get Windows 7 features on an XP or Vista system.

Should I Buy a New System?

When Vista was released, it was clear that most users were going to need a new system to handle the OS. Windows 7, however, is supposedly designed to run on anything, and was even found to be a little bit faster than Vista in PC World's performance tests. So you may not need a new computer after all, but if you're running XP or finding the upgrade path a little too scary, maybe you should splurge on that new laptop you've had your eye on.

IT manager and PC World blogger Michael Scalisi has a great FAQ to help you through the big decision, but the Tech Inciter, David Coursey, says forget about upgrading and just buy a new computer already.

If you do decide to invest in a new machine, or even if you've upgraded, PC World's David Murphy has some tips to help you optimize your Windows 7 system.

Features, Features, Features

Windows 7 is loaded with new features and interface changes. Some you may find intuitive, while others are going to take some time getting used to. Check out Harry McCracken's list of the 10 Best Features of Windows 7, which includes Jump Lists, a better Windows Media Player, and the new taskbar. Rick Broida tells you about one-click Wi-Fi, DeviceStage, and HomeGroup. Then join Tony Bradley for his list of the best features in Windows 7. If you need more feature frenzy, how about a slideshow of the best and worst of Windows 7 and Windows 7 Server.

Windows 7 Security

Any Windows user knows you have to watch out for viruses, spyware, and worms, but Vista's security features were widely panned for being annoying. Windows 7 has toned down the warnings, but it's still got some big security features. In fact, Windows 7 may be the safest Windows OS yet. PC World's Business Center has an extensive guide to Windows 7 security like user Account Control, Fingerprint Scanner Support and data encryption. You can also check out a video tour of the improvements with Senior Editor Robert Strohmeyer.

The Best of the Rest

If you've got multiple computers in your house, then you'll want to read up on how you can take advantage of Windows 7's networking features to connect all the computers in your home. PC World also has a networking video tour taken at its Windows 7 launch party.

There's also a guide to the wide range of keyboard shortcuts in Windows 7 for quick access to common actions. If you're tired of both the mouse and the keyboard, Windows 7 also has a serviceable speech recognition tool worth checking out.

PC World also has a rundown of the good, the bad, and the unknown in Windows 7, and check out Nick Mediati's guide to how they test Windows 7 for performance speeds.

Finally, Windows 7 gives a lot in terms of new features, security improvements, and user interface tweaks, but it also demands a lot from your computer. Check out how to mitigate the seven deadly sins of Windows 7.

Not enough Windows 7 information for you? Be sure to check out PC World's Windows 7 section for more Windows-related tips, news and tweaks.

Distance Learning Education Course in India

Distance Education in India

Distance Education in India have helped to those people who cannot attend regular classes and working in some companies. Now-a-daysdistance education Courses in India has become popular day by day. As the several distance education institutes in india providing distance learning courses in various streams. In the modern days distance learning courses anddistance education programs is really helpful and sustain that spirit. Distance education courses is really help people to generate dynamic personality as they assist them to engage in multiple activities. If you working somewhere and can't attend regular classes then distance learning courses have come as blessings and help for continue education then just join one of theDistance Education Courses which will grow your career.

Join a good distance learning course will help to various people in scaling high in any company that they are presently engaged with. Thus apart from allowing you to learn in your own time and pace distance learning education also improves your career options. Moreover the course fee of these distance education courses are much lesser as compared to that of the regular courses. As it appears today, the benefits of the correspondence courses will be reaped by more and more people in the future.

As the number of distance learning universities in india providing several distance learning courses are continuously proliferating. Our this section, we have try to cover Distance Education in India, Distance Education Universities andDistance Learning Abroad.

Distance Learning in India

Distance Learning Education at various institutions and universities in India is categorized in several disciplines, which are are Arts, Science and Commerce. Students can pick doctorate degrees, undergraduate, post graduate degrees as well as certificate and diploma courses. Our this Distance Learning India section will give you the information on various distance education colleges & universities in India progrmas that are providing several correspondence courses and PG Courses through the distance learning mode. Some Distance Education Courses in India are B.A English, History, Hindi, Sanskrit, Political Science, Zoology, Economics B.Com, B.Sc Physics, Sociology, Psychology, Chemistry, Biology, and B.Lib Bachelor of Library Science, Geography, B.Ed and BBA. Many Masters degree courses are also available through distance education mode.
Distance Learning Abroad

The section on Distance Learning Abroad has also been designed on similar lines. It will focus on various distance learning courses and programs and universities that provide correspondence courses.

We are trying to put in as much information as possible and our motive is also to provide as authentic details as possible about the distance learning courses and institutes that are providing them. But if you come across any discrepancy, do write to us about it. We would appreciate any kind of effort that would improve the quality of the site. Please find links below to know more about Distance Education in India and Distance Learning Abroad.

Windows 8 smartphone slimmer, lighter, and energy efficient XPPhone

In Technology Group has seemingly dedicated itself to merging the Windows PC experience with the smartphone--something the company has dubbed the "post-smartphone." They started with phones running Windows XP a few years ago, and by earlier this year, ITG's XPPhone was available with Windows 7. Now it says a far slimmer, lighter, and energy efficient XPPhone 2 that will run both Windows 7 and the PC version of Windows 8 (once it's released) is in the works.

Though it seems doubtful to me that many consumers will find a need for so much Windows in their pocket, ITG has made sure to pack the XPPhone 2 with the meaty hardware to pull it off. This beast will boast a 1.6GHz processor and 2GB of RAM. ITG's Web site also mentions the possibility of an insane 2GHz model. There's also plenty of storage space to house Microsoft's notoriously bulky OSes, with 112GB on board.

ITG is billing the XPPhone 2 not just as a phone but as the "smallest notebook PC in the world," measuring 140mm X 73mm X 17.5mm. The pitch is basically that the phone is easily dockable and can stand in for a laptop, desktop and in-car navigation system.


The success of this kind of a device will likely depend on it being at least more usable than the English translation of its press release, which requires several aspirin to navigate, with sentences like: "The Editor considers that, presently it forms three camps of smart phone in the way of tripartite confrontation--The Apple, Google & Moto, and Intel & Microsoft & xpPhone, of which stands for three complete different technical orientations."

Let's hope they took the money they saved on their translator and put it into engineering.Engadget reports that we could see an XPPhone 2 release as soon as January.

Mobile World Windows Phone 7

Would you like to have the latest technology when it comes to smartphones? Windows Phone 7 is turning a lot of heads as its new software has been 2 years in the making and hasn't failed to disappoint.

Right now smartphones make up about 23% of the mobile phone market but this is continuing to grow are the costs are starting to drop and more people want to have internet access, email, facebook, and other apps right in their pocket.

The new software will make it's debut with AT&T on November 9 and then it will become available for the rest of the wireless provides in 2011. The first phones to have the new technology will run about $200 each and so far there are about 3 phones that will be sold with more expected to come soon as 6 additional phones have already been announced. The phones are designed to offer variety based on the users preferences. Some of the phones will be touchscreen while other smartphones will feature keyboards.

Windows Phone 7 is designed to be in competition with every other smartphone out there, notebaly the phones making a big impact like the Blackberry and iPhone. Microsoft has failed to impress mobile users as most of their designs have failed or been pulled off the market. Earlier in 2010 Microsoft sent the Kin to the stores but after dismal sales and embarrassment, it was pulled within a few weeks.



Microsoft is recovering from the embarrassment by placing more attention on the Windows Phone 7, which has seen its ups and downs as the iPhone was launched and caused some serious setbacks for Microsoft. The Windows Phone 7 is designed to be user friendly and made to satisfy the user in every possible way, giving the user full control over the look and feel of the phone. It allows for automatic updates to go on without taking away from the users other applications as they are using the phone.

The smartphone that will see the biggest competition from the windows Phone 7 is the Andriod. So what can you expect when you get the Windows Phone 7 in your hands? When you first turn it on you will see several icons that you can choose from that include music files, pictures, contacts, etc. Touch on the icon you want or you can choose to scroll from top to bottom to view the different apps that are available.

When you click on a program you will be directed to it but a top heading will stay at the top of each screen, telling you where you are at. This sub-menu is really unique and very clever and sure to wow a lot of people.

Like the Blackberry and Andriod it will collect the information provided by your friends on social networking sites. This allows you to gather information from facebook and twitter so you can continue fueling your social media addiction. With multitouch web-browsing and a smooth touch-screen, it is very easy to get around online and it was designed for the web.

The apps work differently on Windows Phone 7 as they are integrated right into the operating system. This makes it so they aren't like having separate programs as you see with so many other smartphones. The screen is also much larger from other smartphones, making it very easy to read and you do have the option of using a keyboard that locks behind the phone if you aren't a fan of touchscreen.

Windows Phone 7 doesn't sport the HotSpot technology like Andriod and other phones on the market but it is very impressive with other programs like Zune along with video content. There is even talk of video games that can be played on the Windows Phone 7 and integrated with your Xbox 360.

Technology The newest and greatest computer technology

Computer technology is one of the most rapidly changing and developing fields within the world! There are so many different things that computers can do, and every year many new computer products and technological advances are announced! Here are a couple of the newest and greatest pieces of computer technology:

Newest: One of the newest types of computer technology is a new product which Bill Gates calls "Surface." This project took five years to make, and it was only known by its secret code name "Milan." The "Surface" looks like a low, blacktop coffee table, but it is sensitive to the touch. Keyboards and mousse are not needed, because "Surface" is completely controlled by hand gestures and movements! The hardware for this product is run by a special version of Microsoft's Windows Vista. "Surface" is scheduled to be released to the public in November of 2007. It is thought that this easier way of computer technology will be more accessible and user-friendly to people who struggle with keyboards and the computer mouse. In addition, "Surface" will also be helpful to retailers. T-Mobile USA has a contract with Microsoft for "Surface," and they will be able to place different cell phones on the top of the "Surface" screen. The screen will sense which different types of cell phones are there, and then pull up a list of the phones' different features!



Newest: Another one of the newest types of computer technology is the Apple TV. This is a new product which will use computer technology to hook the computer and TV together. It is known as Apple TV and iTv. Using computer technology, the Apple TV will be able to wirelessly stream both music and videos from the computer or Internet. The basic television set will be able to pick up on these signals, and the image will be available for viewing on the television screen! This is one of the newest and most exciting types of computer technology that has been announced recently. This new computer technology also is giving Macintosh, or "Apple" computers a way to directly compete with the Personal Computer industry (also called PC computers). The Apple TV, in conjunction with iTunes, could make Apple computers the most popular computers on the market.

Technology: India’s cheapest Android tablet

Akash Ubislate, India’s cheapest Android tablet launched

The much anticipated $35 tablet has been officially launched by Union Ministry for Human Resource Development. The tablet is called Akash Ubislate and will be available to students at the subsidized price of 

$35 (approx Rs. 1720).

Weighing 350 grams, Akash tablet features a 7 inch resistive touchscreen diaplay, has 256 MB RAM, 2 GB internal storage, 32 GB expandable memory slot, two USB ports, Wi-Fi IEEE 802.11 b/g connectivity and 3.5 mm audio jack.
Akash Ubislate is powered by Android 2.2 OS and 366 Mhz. Connexant with Graphics accelerator and HD Video processor. Premium version of this tablet will also have inbuilt cellular modem (GSM/3G) and SIM card slot.

Future Information Technology 2012(IT)

Future technology information technology would stand for all of continuously evolving and converging information technologies, including digital convergence, multimedia convergence, intelligent applications, embedded systems, mobile and wireless communications, bio-inspired computing, grid and cloud computing, semantic web, user experience and HCI, secuity and trust computing and so on, for satisfying our ever-changing needs.

In past twenty five years or so, Information Technology (IT) influenced and changed every aspect of our lives and our cultures. Without various IT-based applications, we would find it difficult to keep information stored securely, to process information efficiently, and to communicate information conveniently. In the future world, IT will play a very important role in convergence of computing, communication, and all other computational sciences and application and IT also will influence the future world's various areas, including science, engineering, industry, business, law, politics, culture, medicine, and so on.

Our conference is intended to foster the dissemination of state-of-the-art research in all future IT areas, including their models, services, and novel applications associated with their utilization.

FutureTech 2012 is the next edition of FutureTech 2011(Loutraki, Greece), FutureTech 2010 (Busan, Korea, May 2010) which was the next event in a series of highly successful the International Symposium on Ubiquitous Applications & Security Services (UASS-09, USA, Jan. 2009), previously held as UASS-08 (Okinawa, Japan,Mar. 2008), UASS-07 (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, August, 2007), and UASS-06 (Glasgow, Scotland, UK, May, 2006).



Papers presented in the FutureTech-12 will be published by Springer Lecture Notes in Electrical Engineering(Indexed by EI & SCOPUS), ISSN: 1876-1100.

Important Dates



Workshop Proposal:

October 1, 2011

Submission Deadline:

December 15, 2011

Authors Notification:

February 15, 2012

Carmera-ready Due:

March 15, 2012

Registration Due:

March 15, 2012

Conference:

June 26-28, 2012

All papers accepted and presented in FutureTech 2012, after further revisions, will be published in the special issues of the following international journals: (Pending)

Advantages of Online Education

With the advent of computer and technologies, people in large numbers are opting for more convenient form of education, which would save time, energy and money. Online education options have made it possible for career enthusiasts from all corners of India and abroad pursue a higher education in their subject of interest.
Online Education – What It Is

Online education, also known as e-learning or distance learning lets a student pursue a degree without physically attending the class. Students access the course materials or lectures through internet and periodically meet the teachers to solve any problem.
Advantages of Online Education
Some of the benefits of online education are as follows:
Less Tuition Fee: The cost of undergoing an online course is much cheaper than that of on-campus fees. Apart from that, a student is also able to save more on the transportation cost, because he/she does not have to commute to the university campus, there is no need to buy meals on campus or even rent an apartment near the campus.



Flexible Timing: The students pursuing an online education can complete the course at his/her convenient time and place. This is extremely suitable for working professionals, who can pursue an online course from the comfort of the house adjusting time from the hectic work schedule.

Wide Choice of Institutions: Students who reside in remote areas or small towns where the number or choice of institutions are limited, one can take advantage of pursuing a higher education from a prestigious institutions of their dreams.

Working while Learning: Working professionals can pursue a higher education without hampering their work.

Online Education Universities

Some of the Indian universities that offer online education are –

· Indira Gandhi National Open University

· Delhi University School of Open Learning

· Periyar Institute of Distance Education

· Netaji Subhash Open University

· Yashwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University

· Burdwan University

· Kota Open University

· U.P Rajarshi Tandon Open University

· Karnataka State Open University

· Annamalai University

· Madhya Pradesh Bhoj Open University

· Dr B.R Ambedkar Open University

wireless connections How to avoid getting your information

How to avoid getting your information stolen via wireless connections
This occurs using crimeware, previously installed on a public computer, logs the keys you are stroking and sends the information (electronically) to criminals.

It can be dangerous to look at any of your online financial information on these (public access) machines.

When writing about this phenomenon, I remembered that even using your personal computer at a public place with a wireless connection can expose a person's personal and sometimes, financial details.

Just the other day, Martin Bosworth, over at Consumer Affairs, wrote an excellent piece covering this danger, where he stated:

Sending unencrypted information over any unfamiliar network can turn your computer into an open book -- with pages full of your personal information.Many of these connections are appear to be legitimate connections because they are spoofed (camouflaged to appear as if they are a trusted connection).

Spoofing a connection, or site isn't very hard to do. They simply copy and transpose pictures and statements (words) from legitimate sites to their own. The Artists Against website has a portal, where you can see fake websites that are up and running on the Internet, here.



Martin's article contains some excellent tips on how to navigate the murky waters of public hot spots, safely.

They can be viewed, here.

Interestingly enough, wireless technology, isn't only used to compromise individuals. In the recent TJX data breach, where some are saying 200 million records were stolen since 2003, reports are saying the data was stolen, using wireless technology.

It's being reported that this was accomplished from a car with a laptop. Driving around with a laptop, using other people's wireless connections, is sometimes referred to as "war-driving," which is my new word for the day.

Joseph Pereira (Wall Street Journal) wrote about this (courtesy of the Northwest Florida Daily News), here.

Remote Desktop Solution is the Right One for Your Business

In the world of Remote Access tools, there are a few choices that you have when it comes to selecting a remote access solution for your business.

The two main categories of these tools are: server based remote access programs and PC to PC remote access programs. In the server based model, the client PC connects to a remote server which is dedicated for this purpose. The user is then presented with a virtual desktop. One main advantage of this is that it allows more than one user to be logged into the server at the same time, as each user would have their own separate login and desktop. A PC to PC type of remote access tool would run on a PC, which is also usually a workstation when not used remotely. The user can connect to it from another computer or a mobile device. While this is the simplest and most inexpensive form of remote access, it may not be suitable for everyone. This is because with this kind of PC Remote Control Software, the server PC can only be used by one user at a time in the majority of cases.

Here are some factors to consider when you want to decide on which kind of solution you would like to implement. Your level of technical skill and the presence of a tech support or IT department in your company.



In general, server based remote desktop software applications are more complex and slightly harder to configure and manage than a PC to PC software type. However, you don't really need to be an IT professional to install a server based virtualization solution, but you would still need to be comfortable working around computers and know some networking terminology.

Intel’s Next Generation Processor—Poulson

Intel released the updated architecture features of its upcoming Itanium processor with the codename as “Poulson”. The new architecture features include Instruction Replay, improved Hyper-Threading and new instructions and so on, aiming to use the next-generation 12-wide release architecture.

The Instruction Replay technology is one of the new features, which could make the wrong instruction re-execute, and then automatically cover the serious mistakes and further help to prevent the system collapse and data damage. Additionally, this Instruction Replay technology is an important remote access services update and the first Intel chip to have the capability.

 “utilizes a new pipeline architecture to expand error detection in order to capture transient errors in execution. Upon error detection, instructions can then be re-executed from the instruction buffer queue to automatically recover from severe errors to improve resiliency.”

Besides these, for almost all main architectures in the Itanium electronic component core design, “Poulson” adds extensive RAS (reliability, availability and serviceability) protections, including LLC (last level cache), MLI (mid-level instruction cache), MLD (mid-level data cache), IEU (integer execution unit) and FPU (floating-point unit), etc.

This technology enables the second feature, improved Hyper-Threading which brings better performance and support for Dual Domain Multithreading. This allows for front and backend pipeline execution, therefore improving Poulson's parallelism.

Moreover, Intel is adding instructions in four areas as well. There are new integer operations, expanded data access hints, expanded software prefetch and thread control. It is worthwhile for Xeon customers to keep an eye on Itanium updates and features because they are likely to appear in future Xeon CPUs.

The new Itanium instructions of Intel simplify unified task and branch operations to help the future Itanium to promote into the next level.

Key points of “Poulson”:

Eight high capacity core

54MB memory chips (50MB of an SRAM)

Adopting 32 nm made 3.1 billion transistors

The higher, the bus speed (QPI and SMI) will increase 33% system bandwidth

The next generation of architecture improves the new data and instructions channel, floating point channel and instruction cache.

Improve the power management function, reduce the socket power consumption.

Compatible with the present Intel Itanium 9300 processor series.

Intel announced that “Poulson” Itanium processor is the most advanced Intel processor so far which is about to launch in 2012. The next-generation Itanium processor followed “Poulson” is code-named as “Kittson” which is being developed and would be released in 2014.

Computer Clean Up To Speed Up Your PC

If you’re tired of always beating the deadline due to a slow laptop or slow desktop; if you’re sick of restarting the system because of freezes, and the like, it’s about time that you find out how you can make your computer faster. Do not think that the only way you can increase PC performance is by bringing it to a technician – there are computer clean up steps you can take that will help to significantly speed up your PC. Here are some of them:

Hard Drive Defragmentation

Defragmenting the drive means letting the system become more organized, the files will be compressed, etc, making it easier to access programs, files, or documents, freeing up some space on the disk, and so forth. There’s a built in Disk Defragmenter tool in every laptop or desktop, and it is best that you use it on a monthly or even on a weekly basis (depending on how frequently you use your personal computer) to really make your computer faster. The process takes half an hour to one or two hours, depending on the number of files and programs you have. While the tool is running, make sure that all windows or applications are closed, for effective and faster defragmenting.

Removal Of Unused Applications And Files



Part of computer clean up steps that help increase PC performance is for you to review the system and check for any unused programs, malfunctioning applications, and so on. By removing those kinds of files, you’ll be able to speed up your PC. For unused documents, you can instantly delete them and then, empty the Recycle bin. For applications or programs that you want removed, you should use their uninstallers or remove them from the Add/Remove Program directory, and then, delete them completely from the Recycle Bin. Check for these files at least once a month, do the necessary deletion, and voila, you’ll be able to make your computer faster.

Updating The Drivers And Applications



To increase PC performance, you also have to ensure that the drivers and the programs are updated or have the latest versions. You see, if their versions are not up-to-date, they could malfunction or can affect the performance of your system negatively. Most applications or software automatically prompt for the need to update the versions or drivers – all you have to do is to click OK or Yes, and the update will start.

Other computer clean up tips and tricks that will really speed up your PC are: scanning for viruses and malware and cleaning them out using a reliable anti virus and anti malware program; deleting the temporary files, cookies, Internet history, etc; among others.

REGISTRY CLEANER:Increase the Speed and Life of your Computer

WHAT IS A REGISTRY CLEANER AND WHY DO I NEED ?

If you've suffered attacks of slow computer processing times or sudden errors in your computer

programs, someone may have suggested that you use a registry cleaner. There are varying opinions on whether registry cleaners work, but the simple answer is, yes. If you use a cleaner correctly they will help control the problems you've encountered on your computer. It also helps with the performance of your machine.

The computer registry is a detailed list of the installed and uninstalled programs, hardware and software attached to any computer. After frequent long term usage, the registry can become cluttered and start to impede the processing on your computer. It is common for that to happen when you have programs installed and then you remove them from your computer. This will lead the memory on your computer to have blank spots and other things and makes the computer go in a different route to try and pull up the information from the memory.
Errors occur on computers when numerous programs, links and repairs are added to the registry over a considerable amount of time. These errors begin to slow your computer and eventually can cause the computer to crash or lock up when it senses a threat to its internal system. There are simple solutions to de-cluttering your registry to improve speed and performance of the system.



There are numerous benefits from correctly using a registry cleaner. The amount of errors of driver process failure will decrease considerably if it is cleaned regularly; less time will be spent in frustration over the constant errors and frozen computers; the computer speed will increase during not only start up and shut down, but while you're using the system; corrupt entries that can do fatal damage to your system will be eliminated.

When you decide to use a registry cleaner software program, there are a few items you'll want to keep in mind:

Choose software compatible with your system. Check the requirements before you purchase any software and if you have questions, contact the company first. Additional damage can be caused by incompatible programs. It's important to know what operating system is on your computer before choosing.

Cleaner programs offer varying degrees of user ability. Scheduled scans for timed checks of your system will help your computer work smoothly and more efficiently. Quick scans offer immediate help if you encounter a problem while working on the computer. Most cleaners will run a window in the background and launch automatically to make it a carefree and easy to use program.

As files become corrupt or damaged in the computer, the cleaner program will try to remove these files. Unfortunately many of them cannot detect whether the file is imperative to maintaining the use of certain other programs in the computer and could cause unexpected problems. Search for a registry cleaner that offers an option to check the invalid entries before removing them so you can safeguard your wanted programming.

In today's software market there is a registry cleaning program right for just about any consumer. Make sure you find the right fit for your needs, your abilities and your operating system. Compare programs for not only pricing but what is offered and ease of use.

Registry cleaners, if used properly, can increase the speed and life of your computer immensely. They are easy to maintain and update and may save you many hours of frustration and errors. Head to Download.com where you can find a free registry cleaner that will work effectively and will be able to help you have a faster and efficient system.

Windows Speed Up Your Network and Internet Access

I have a dial up connection and it improve my speeds about 25% in surfing the internet. give it a try. Im IT , only do it if you feel comfortable with changing registry.
Increasing network browsing speed

Does your computer slow down when you browse your local area network and connect to other computers that are sharing data? One of the most common causes of this slowdown is a feature of Windows Explorer that looks for scheduled tasks on remote computers. This effort can take some time on some computers and can really slow down your browsing. The window with which you are browsing the network may appear to freeze momentarily, as the system is waiting for a response from the remote computer.

Windows XP: Speeding Disk Access

Although this problem is a complex one, the solution is very simple. Instead of having to wait for the remote scheduled tasks, which is useless information to anyone who is not a system administrator remotely configuring scheduled tasks, you can disable this feature.
In order to do this, you will have to change the System Registry and delete a reference to a key so that this feature will not be loaded. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Open up the Registry Editor by clicking the Start Menu and selecting Run. Then type regedit in the text box and click the OK button.

2. Once the Registry Editor has loaded, expand the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE key.

3. Next, expand Software and then Microsoft.



4. Locate Windows and expand that as well.

5. You will want to be editing the main system files, so expand CurrentVersion.

6. Because this feature is a feature of the Windows component known as Explorer, expand the Explorer key.

7. Next, you will want to modify the remote computer settings, so expand the RemoteComputer key and then expand the NameSpace key to show all of the features that are enabled when you browse to a remote computer.

8. In the NameSpace folder you will find two entries. One is "{2227A280-3AEA-1069-A2DE-08002B30309D}" which tells Explorer to show printers shared on the remote machine. The other, "{D6277990-4C6A-11CF-8D87-00AA0060F5BF}," tells Explorer to show remote scheduled tasks. This is the one that you should delete. This can be done by right-clicking the name of the key and selecting Delete.

Tip:

If you have no use for viewing remote shared printers and are really only interested in shared files, consider deleting the printers key, "{2227A280-3AEA-1069-A2DE-08002B30309D}", as well. This will also boost your browsing speed.

Once you have deleted the key, you just need to restart and the changes will be in effect. Now your network computer browsing will be without needless delays.

How to Increase Performance In Windows XP

Customize the Start menu

The Start menu gets more real estate in XP than in previous versions, and it's more
customizable. To make the Start menu display only the applications you want, rather
than the default determined by Microsoft, right-click in an empty section of the Start
menu's left column, and select Properties > Start Menu > Customize. Here you'll find
a list of your most frequently used programs. (XP keeps track of what you use and
what you don't, then updates this list dynamically.) Don't want your boss to know
that Pinball, Solitaire, and Quake all make your list? Go to the General tab, click
Clear List, and set the counter to zero.

Organize your desktop

The only default icon on XP's desktop is the Recycle Bin, but we think it's a good idea
to add a shortcut to Computer Management, a quick and dirty way to get to such
important tools as the Event Viewer, Local Users and Groups, Shared Folders, the
Device Manager, and Disk Management. To surface this handy management dialog,
click Start > Control Panel > Performance and Maintenance > Administrative Tools.
Right-click the Computer Management shortcut. Select Copy from the dialog menu.
Right-click an empty portion of the desktop and select Paste Shortcut. Use this
procedure to add shortcuts to anything else; use Windows Explorer or My Computer
to find your target

Turn on your firewall

Microsoft included a firewall in Windows XP to keep you safe from hackers while you
cruise the Internet. How do you know that the Internet Connection Firewall is on? Go
to the Control Panel and double-click the Network Connections icon. In the dial-up,
DSL, or cable connection dialog that appears, check the Status column. If your
firewall is on, it should say Firewalled. You can turn the firewall off with the check
box, but unless you are going to add a third-party firewall for heightened security,
it's best to leave it on.
Now that you know that your firewall is on, how do you know that it's doing its job?
Test it with ShieldsUp, the free testing service sponsored by Gibson Research.
According to our tests, XP's Internet Connection Firewall kept the computer in full
stealth mode. Hackers could not break in and couldn't even see the computer online.
But, given the latest security problems with USB 2.0, etc, you should always go to
Windows Update to make sure you have the latest patches, no matter what
operating system you use.

The omnipotent Administrator

When you use Windows XP, you belong to one of two groups: Administrators or
Users. Administrators are all-powerful: if you have a so-called Admin account, you
can make systemwide changes and change other users' accounts. While this power is
a boon to the ego, it's also dangerous. If, for example, you encounter a virus, a
Trojan horse, or a worm while you're logged on as Administrator, you could wreck all
the accounts on your entire system. Log in as User, on the other hand, and any
damage you cause will be less extensive, because ordinary users are prevented from
making systemwide changes. A word to the wise: Do your everyday computing as a
regular user and log on as Administrator only when it's absolutely necessary, such as
when adding a new user or changing security settings. To sign on as User, use the
Run As command: just right-click a shortcut and select Run As. As long as you know
the username and password, you can sign on as another user.

Reduce Temporary Internet File Space

The temporary internet files clutter your hard drive with copies of each page visited.
These can build up over time and take up disk space. Even more bothersome is that
instead of getting new pages each time IE often takes the page out the temp internet
files. This can be a problem if you are viewing a website that is updated all the time.
If you are on a slow connection such as a 56K or lower then this can be good but if
you are on a fast broadband connection, like me, then you can get away with
decreasing the size of your temp internet files to just one meg without any
performance decrease.

Launch Internet Explorer.

Select the Tools from the menu bar. Then select Internet Options... from the drop
down menu. Once the internet options has loaded click on the general tab. Under the
temporary internet files section click the settings button. A settings window will load.
Slide the slider all the way to the left so the size indicated in the text box on the
right is one. Click OK Click Ok

Services You Can Disable

There are quite a few services you can  disable from starting automatically.

This would be to speed up your boot time  and free resources. They are only suggestions so I suggestion you read the description of each one when you run Services and that you turn them off one at a time.

Some possibilities are:
Alerter
Application Management
Clipbook
Fast UserSwitching
Human Interface Devices
Indexing Service
Messenger
Net Logon
NetMeeting
QOS RSVP
Remote Desktop Help Session Manager
Remote Registry
Routing & Remote Access
SSDP Discovery Service
Universal Plug and Play Device Host
Web Client

Cleaning the Prefetch Directory

WindowsXP has a new feature called Prefetch. This keeps a shortcut to recently used programs.
However it can fill up with old and obsolete programs.

To clean this periodically go to:
Star / Run / Prefetch
Press Ctrl-A to highlight all the shorcuts
Delete them
Not Displaying Logon, Logoff, Startup and Shutdown Status Messages
To turn these off:
Start Regedit
Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionpoliciessystem
If it is not already there, create a DWORD value named DisableStatusMessages
Give it a value of 1
Clearing the Page File on Shutdown
Click on the Start button
Go to the Control Panel
Administrative Tools
Local Security Policy
Local Policies
Click on Security Options
Right hand menu - right click on "Shutdown: Clear Virtual Memory Pagefile"
Select "Enable"
Reboot
For regedit users.....
If you want to clear the page file on each shutdown:
Start Regedit
Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetControlSession ManagerMemory ManagementClearPageFileAtShutdown
Set the value to 1
No GUI Boot
If you don't need to see the XP boot logo,
Run MSCONFIG
Click on the BOOT.INI tab
Check the box for /NOGUIBOOT
Speeding the Startup of Some CD Burner Programs
If you use program other than the native WindowsXP CD Burner software,
you might be able to increase the speed that it loads.
Go to Control Panel / Administrative Tools / Services
Double-click on IMAPI CD-Burning COM Service
For the Startup Type, select Disabled
Click on the OK button and then close the Services window
If you dont You should notice
Getting Rid of Unread Email Messages
To remove the Unread Email message by user's login names:

Start Regedit

For a single user: Go to HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionUnreadMail
For all users: Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionUnreadMail
Create a DWORD key called MessageExpiryDays
Give it a value of 0
Decreasing Boot Time
Microsoft has made available a program to analyze and decrease the time it takes to boot to WindowsXP

The program is called BootVis
Uncompress the file.
Run BOOTVIS.EXE
For a starting point, run Trace / Next Boot + Driver Delays
This will reboot your computer and provide a benchmark
After the reboot, BootVis will take a minute or two to show graphs of your system startup.
Note how much time it takes for your system to load (click on the red vertical line)
Then run Trace / Optimize System
Re-Run the Next Boot + Drive Delays
Note how much the time has decreased
Mine went from approximately 33 to 25 seconds.
Increasing Graphics Performance
By default, WindowsXP turns on a lot of shadows, fades, slides etc to menu items.
Most simply slow down their display.
To turn these off selectively:
Right click on the My Computer icon
Select Properties
Click on the Advanced tab
Under Performance, click on the Settings button
To turn them all of, select Adjust for best performance
My preference is to leave them all off except for Show shadows under mouse pointer and Show window contents while dragging
Increasing System Performance

If you have 512 megs or more of memory, you can increase system performance
by having the core system kept in memory.
Start Regedit

Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetControlSession ManagerMemory ManagementDisablePagingExecutive
Set the value to be 1
Reboot the computer
Increasing File System Caching
To increase the amount of memory Windows will locked for I/O operations:
Start Regedit
Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetControlSession ManagerMemory Management
Edit the key IoPageLockLimit
Resolving Inability to Add or Remove Programs
If a particular user cannot add or remove programs, there might be a simple registry edit neeed.
Go to HKCUSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionPoliciesUninstall
Change the DWORD NoAddRemovePrograms to 0 disable it
4096 - 32megs of memory or less
8192 - 32+ megs of memory
16384 - 64+ megs of memory
32768 - 128+ megs of memory
65536 - 256+ megs of memory

Windows Server 8 :300 new and improved features

With Windows Server 8, Microsoft has outdone itself, from a revamped UI to hundreds of new features, including vastly improved virtualization management



Dynamic Access Control. Today's folder-centric model for access control makes it all too easy for permissions to get garbled -- and auditing is a horror. Dynamic Access Control doesn't replace your current file and folder permissions, but allows you to layer global policies and claims-based access controls on top of them. For example, you might create a rule to ensure that only members of the finance group can access finance department files and strictly from a managed device -- and this rule could be enforced by all Windows Server 8 file servers (and only Windows Server 8 file servers) in your organization.

Dynamic Access Control uses tags applied to the files by users, supporting applications (think Microsoft Office), and Windows Server 8 itself (automatic classification). To implement, you create claims definitions and file property definitions in Active Directory; any Active Directory attribute can be used for access control. Claims travel with the user's security token. In a nice touch, the system now goes beyond the annoying "access denied" message. Instead of the stone wall, denied users can be presented with a remediation link to open a help ticket or contact the administrator or file owner to request access.

Large Hyper-V clusters. Windows Server 8 leaps into VMware territory and beyond with support for as many as 63 hosts and 4,000 VMs per cluster. Backing up the raw numbers are a slew of features that improve performance, manageability, availability, and security in large environments: cluster-aware patching, storage resource pools, thin provisioning, storage offload for data transfers, BitLocker encryption for cluster volumes, data deduplication, and live storage migration.

Microsoft claims 300 new and improved features in Windows Server 8, but after a few days in Redmond watching demos and stepping through lab sessions, we wonder whether the marketing guys accidentally left off a zero. It's hard to name a Windows Server feature that hasn't been tweaked, streamlined, wizardized, or completely revamped. Whatever grudge you may hold against Windows Server 2008, Windows Server 8 will almost certainly make amends.

If you're a large shop struggling to manage hundreds of Windows servers, Windows Server 8 should ease the job. If you're a small shop trying to squeeze high-end capability from a low-end budget, Windows Server 8 has plenty for you, too. With Windows Server 8, everything from server deployment to high availability becomes smoother and more automated.

In fact, there's so much of note in the new OS, it's almost a crime to stop at the top 10, listed below in no particular order. Believe it or not, data deduplication for production file servers, native PowerShell support in Hyper-V, and virtual Active Directory didn't even make the list. Look at it this way: There will be even more surprises in store when you finally get your hands on a Windows Server 8 beta.

Multiserver management. Server Manager not only gets a face-lift in Windows Server 8, donning the superclean Metro look, but opens the management horizon to the entire server environment. Pull in new servers (physical or virtual) to manage through Active Directory or DNS lookup, and Server Manager will inventory the server and add a new tile to the dashboard displaying its state. Other tiles roll up aggregates of information across multiple servers by server role and various attributes.

Views are search driven, so it's easy to pull up matching values across all rows. Search filters can be saved, so it's easy to create personalized dashboards or standard views for selected sets of machines. Instead of reaching across the screen to ye olde Task pane (RIP), you perform all actions directly on specific elements, by right-clicking and choosing from a contextual menu. Naturally, all of this remote, multiserver management goodness is built on PowerShell and WMI (Windows Management Interface). Considering Microsoft's boasts of 2,300 new PowerShell cmdlets, wizards should become more commonplace throughout the Windows Server ecosystem.

Friction-free server deployment. Windows Server 8 inherits Windows Server 2008's wizards for installing roles and features, but combines them in what Microsoft calls "scenario-based deployment." Installs can target local machines, remote machines, or virtual hard disks, with deployment to multiple machines automated through PowerShell cmdlets, WMI APIs, and "workflows" that handle suspending and resuming batch operations. Plus, you no longer have to second-guess that Server Core install. Instead of starting over from scratch, Windows Server 8 lets you move between Server Core and a full server simply by installing or removing components. You can even install the full server without the graphical shell because real servers don't have GUIs.

IP address management. Odds are you're using a spreadsheet or homegrown cobbleware to track your IP address allocations, and it's no fun at all. Windows Server 8 introduces a full-featured IP address manager that combines network discovery, static and dynamic address allocation, DNS and DHCP monitoring, and network auditing capabilities all in one place. Logging actual address usage, identifying conflicts, cross-referencing with hardware inventory, and providing an audit trail of all changes, the Windows IP Address Management Center goes way beyond record keeping. It has the potential to eliminate a huge time-suck from your to-do list.