Links, Tips and Suggestions:

 

Start Remote Support

 

 

TARP - Temple University offer a wide range of non-credit courses   I urge you to check this out. TARP is unique among adult educational programs in that students can drop in and out of classes, where attendance depends only on their interests. No tests or homework are required, and the only "pressure" on participants is when to seize the optimum moment in which to interject opinions during the lively and highly verbal class discussions.

 

MyHealtheVet


Rollback RX Pro   GOBACK replacement for Vista and Windows XP    HorizonDataSys Portal.   In advanced options in pre-boot console window,  lockdisk=0 if system hangs when shutting down.  Default value is lockdisk=2.   Fallback HDS portal

Use this HDS portal for Rollback 08/10

AVG Portal

NOD32 Portal

Commandcom Portal

Reading DMP files    http://support.microsoft.com/kb/315263

PA Do Not Call Registration                    Verify Do Not Call Status

Microsoft Windows Validation   1-866-530-6599.

USB Keyrings

Vista performance patch known as 943899: Certain Dell laptops need an update to their copies of the Intel Matrix Storage Manager before the machines will boot properly. A download called the R154198 patch, which can be found on the Dell Web site, should be installed on those systems that need it.


Problems with Outlook: 

If it is taking forever for words to appears when you are composing a new e-mail, and/or if Outlook 2007 is dragging on you (using 50% of processor cycles), see if you have CyberLink installed. Remove it using Remove Programs. Or, if you want to keep the software, you can simply remove it from your Outlook Addins.

In Outlook 2007, go to Tools... Trust Center... Add-Ins... On the bottom, just click Go. Now you'll have a screen to disable any add-ins. Just remove the check from the box for OutlookAddin and save. Outlook should now be running at the correct speed.

Error message when you try to read or to delete e-mail, or when you click "Send/Receive" in Outlook: "An unknown error has occurred" or "Messaging interface has caused an unknown error"

If you are receiving the same e-mail multiple times   http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx/kb/885870/

PST repair use Scanpst.exe  This program is on your computer.  You will also need to know the location of outlook.pst


BACKUP, BACKUP, BACKUP.

It is important that you make a backup of your critical files (My Documents, and your Outlook data).   I strongly recommend that you at least create a backup using the Sonic CD Recorder.  (documents and settings/user/local settings/application data/microsoft/outlook/outlook.pst)

However, what is your house is wiped out?  

I have been using a product provided by  Secure Online Backups  to backup my critical data.  My information is kept on the internet in a secure location.   The service costs between $50 - $100 per year for 2GB to 5 GB of data.

If my house is wiped out, at least I will still have my critical documents.

Call me to talk about this.

TurboBackup

 


Security=people + process + technology.  See the Microsoft Security Guidance Center

Interesting article from Webroot about Spyware and Adware

Microsoft Spyware Video

Microsoft Phishing Video

Microsoft Computer Security video series

Opting out of Google's cookies


Commandcom Anti-virus purchase/renewal area:

Prevention, Detection, and Response are the mantra for computer security.  The combination of Commandcom Anti-Virus, Zone Alarm Firewall, and Ad-Aware will help keep your computer secure.  But these programs must be up to date.

To purchase/renew your anti-virus contact David Levy then go to the Commandcom renewal area . You will need the username/password listed on your client information sheet, and the new registration number that you will get from me.     To register a new user with a SMI serial number.            Use this link to renew with SMI serial number

http://www.authentium.com/support/password/registration.asp

To manually remove CSAV search for zapper

Click here to purchase a new copy of Commandcom Anti-Virus

Norton 2009 Internet Security Suite

Norton 2010 Internet Security Suite latest version on-line upgrade from 2009.

Norton_Removal_Tool

ftp://ftp.symantec.com/public/english_us_canada/hotfix/2010Disabled/KB20100122121538EN.exe Hofix for Norton Icon disappearing from icon tray 2/11/10

I found that Norton writes your key to a text file.
C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Norton\00000082\00000109
The file is called key.txt

Microsoft Security Essentials (W7/Vista 32 bit) mssefullinstall-x86fre-en-us-vista-win7

Microsoft Security Essentials Website


 

  IMPORTANT DIRECTION FILES

  Download the latest work-in-progress computer directions  updated 9/16/07   Word 2007 version of computer directions for XP systems (18.5 MB) Computer Directions vista office 2007 (19 MB)

  Directions to stop documents from printing (to clear the Print Queue)

  Directions to reset your DSL modem and computer

  Directions to change Outlook to support Comcast's SSL connection.

  Orbusforme manual

  Olympus WS-200S digital recorder manual

  HP5610 Printer Manual

  Plantronics CS50-USB headset mike manual              Knowbrainer

  NGT  MagiTalk link to the  manual   e-mail "Pace Arko" <jsay@ngtvoice.comTel: 425.744.1100, extension 17
(The best time to reach me live is between 8:30AM and 12:30PM Pacific Time.)

 

 

IMPORTANT FILES THAT DAVID MAY DIRECT YOU TO DOWNLOAD

Mod for Firefox to remove MS Framework add-in

acknowledgement of computer 

Mcafee removal tools

Download 4.95.2 version of Commandcom Anti-Virus               Commandcom user manual

Download Command Antimalware version 5.1.1 32 bit Windows XP/Vista/7

Windows Registry cleanup Utility

  NOD32 AV Version 3 final release 

  Ad-Aware anti spyware website        

  Download Norton Internet Security Suite 2010 NIS10FDEN

    Zone Labs fire wall website           

   Download 5.5094 version of ZoneAlarm    

  Listing of all previous versions of ZoneAlarm

  Gibson Research Corporation  for other privacy utilities

  Download DECOM                                               

  Download UN plug and play


Rollback 8.1 May 20th old SMI standard

Download Rollback RX Pro V9.0 for VISTA 64 w/ 4GB of RAM (rollback20090714v9.0) OLD

Download Rollback RX Pro v 9.0  Build: 2694141964 Last Updated: May 10th, 2009. (vista32). OLD

Download Rollback RX Pro Version 9.1 Build 2694553610, Nov. 20, 2009 RollbackR20091120v91 XP/Vista/W7 This is the current SMI standard

Download RollbackRx20100305v91 Version: 9.1 Build: 2695045130 March 6th 2010 XP/Vista/W7

Rollbackv91 may 28 2010 Version 9.1 Build: 2695223310 May 28th 2010 XP/Vista/W7. Soon to be the new SMI standard

       (please go x:\program files\shield folder, run file shdclr.exe. If you can not find the file in shield folder, you may find in the Rollback installation package) 

In the future, when you want to defrag with a third party or OEM Defrag tool, do the following (requires V9):

http://horizondatasys-forum.com/rollback-rx/21-rollback-rx-v9-defragging-files-snapshot-degfrag-complete-alternative-2.html

Run command line switch "shieldcmd /defrag" (no quotes) from start/run

  1. Defrag your OS and File system using your own defragging utility (eg. Diskkeeper, Perfect Disk, Windows etc.)
  2. Run update baseline from RollBack Rx client application console -> manage baseline -> make the current system (after defragged system) as a new baselline snapshot.  

  DELL emergency restore directions

  Broadband Reports.com.  Test the speed of you internet connection

  Verizon DSL speed test (infospeed.verizon.net).  This also works with cable modems.

  Speakeasy speed test  (very nice)

   Comcast Speedtest 

  Speedtest  

  Tweaks

  Test your VOIP

  Roxio (Dell Supplied)

   Registry KeyFinder

  DELL Sonic HOT FIX for request to use CD

  Dell Cyberlink PowerDVD 5.7

SpySweeperRegSetup

  Spysweeper  (Please open Spy Sweeper, click on Shields, click the Windows System tab. Here, uncheck the Keylogger    shield   at the bottom. This should return the performance level to your computer but in no way diminishes the functionality of Spy Sweeper.)

  Malicious Software Removal Tool

  Dell Support

   R12654 DELL Video Driver Update 7/06  for Dell 3100 systems

   HP5610 driver and software update location

   Secunia Stay Secure Software Version Check  - Excellent Tool

   Flash Player removal tool  to removal ALL versions of Flash Player  4/8/08 version

   AVG anti-root kit program

   VZAccess Manager Software website       V720 USB software   

   Find Your IP Address

   Langalist Disk Cleanup   from RUN: cleanmgr /sageset:99    cleanmgr /sagerun:99

   ISO Burner software for Toshiba HD player 

  Vista SP1 issues with SigmaTel audio.  Scroll down to Chris B     R171788 file

http://www.confickerworkinggroup.org/wiki/pmwiki.php?n=ANY.RepairTools  Intel wireless security issues 

  Ccleaner , my recommendation is that during installation you UNCHECK all the install options EXCEPT "Add Desktop Shortcut".   You can analyze  then run the cleaner.   Do not change any of the advanced options.  I do not yet  support this program.    Installation directions and operating directions  by Ian "Gizmo"  Richards.  This came from www.Windowsscrets.com

  ISO burner 

  HP diagnostic tool, check connection, status, drivers, etc 

  Conflicker Removal Tools    If you cannot reach that website, you can use ESET's removal tool

Malware Bytes Website

Malware bytes program file

Firefox Setup 3.5.2

To scan direct in Vista; create a shortcut using C:\WINDOWS\System32\wiaacmgr.exe

Super Anti Spyware software NEW

keyfinder.2.0.1

 

 

http://www.palm.com/us/support/downloads/outlook2007/outlook2007update.html



Continuing Education:

TARP - Temple University offer a wide range of non-credit courses   I urge you to check this out.  TARP is unique among adult educational programs in that students can drop in and out of classes, where attendance depends only on their interests. No tests or homework are required, and the only "pressure" on participants is when to seize the optimum moment in which to interject opinions during the lively and highly verbal class discussions.


In Person Authorization Form

 

MilitaryHops.com is dedicated to being the premier index of information about Space Available (Space-A) Military Flights that qualified people can travel on.


Veterans Benefits Network 


CHECK YOUR FACTS  before blindly passing along e-mails

Before you blindly pass along the next virus warning, missing child report, or any other mass forwarded item, please check it with www.snopes.com  Snopes is a vast repository of information about the veracity and history of many urban legends.

Also Annenberg Political Fact Check  site is a resource to check the accuracy of political ads.


Tired of seeing the Icon Cleanup Wizard?  Here is how to remove it:
Start/Control Panel/Display/Desk Top tab/Customize Desktop/uncheck run Desktop Cleanup Wizard Every 60 days/Click OK

For those of you interested in still an moving pictures.  I recommend Microsoft Digital Image Pro 9.  It has comprehensive and easy to use tools for retouching and editing pictures.  I have found it far easier to use then the software that Dell has provided.  The cost is around $100.  As of 4/21/04 I do not recommend MS Digital Image Pro 9.  Several customers have complained of system lockup when using this program.  I am working on a fix.  It looks like there is a video card issue.

Microsoft offers  Movie Maker 2  at no cost.  You can create movies from still images as well as digital sources.  Frank Demaio made this  movie  using Movie Maker 2.  (There is some graphic violence.)

 

LCD Screen Cleaner.  I use this to clean the LCD screen on my laptop and my LCD HD TV.

 

MORE MEMORY

If you want to purchase more RAM for you DELL 2400, I would recommend the 256 MB Module.  Manufacturer Part# MT16VDDT3264AG335B4.  Dell Part# A0136891.    Click here and you should be taken to the correct area to order this 256MB Module for the DELL 2400.    Click here for the 512MB module for the DELL 2400.   Click here for the 512MB module for the DELL 3000.   Most of the system installed since 2005 come with 512MB of RAM.


Suggested changes to Internet Explorer:

TOOLS / INTERNET OPTIONS / ADVANCED

Uncheck the Enable Install on Demand (Internet Explorer)  and the Enable Install on Demand (Other) check boxes.  This will help prevent programs from installing without your knowledge or permission.

Check  Empty Temporary Internet Files folder when browser is closed.  This will help keep your computer less cluttered.


KNOWN  ISSUES:

The DELL 2400 has an integrated video card.  While this configuration is very good for all Independent Living goals, you may experience issues with some video games and other programs that require extensive use of the video card.   The possible options are to increase the amount of RAM to 512, and/or to install a new video card.  I would recommend that you contact DELL at 1-866-876-3355 with any video issues, they should be able to provide better support.

FireFox:

In the location bar, type "about:config" (without the quotation marks), then press "Enter".
In the "Filter" field, type "general.useragent", (again without the quotation marks).

Outlook:

 


Recommended purchases:

I strongly recommend that you purchase a cross cut shredder.   I personally use the Fellows  model PS80C-2 ($179) You can find it at Staples . Do not forget oil for the shredder (Fellows Shredder Oil).   I would oil it a based on use.  Things run better when properly lubricated; don't cheap out and not buy the oil.

If your AC power sometimes goes out, I would strongly recommend that you consider a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply).  The UPS can provide around 10 minutes (and more) of power to your computer after a complete power failure.   The below link will take you to my recommended vendor.  Call me.

APC Factory Store

 

Digital Cameras:

I have had very good luck with Canon digital cameras.  You can go to www.dpreview.com for detailed information about specific models.  I do not install the software that comes with the camera.  I prefer to use the Windows XP picture transfer wizard, and I prefer to use my present picture processing software.   Call me.

 

 

VoiceOverIP (VoIP or internet phones):

Vonage is a very cost effective way to provide phone service via your cable high speed internet connection.    The quality is excellent, as good as your normal phone.  The downside is that if you lose either electrical power to your house, or there is an internet service interruption, you will lose all phone service.   You can either transfer your existing phone number, or select the area code and exchange of a new phone number.  We are using this service to provide a local phone number for my in-laws in Wisconsin; they can call us in Pennsylvania for the cost of a local call.  Call me for my latest report.

You will need to install a router and pap2 device.   You will connect the router to your cable modem, then connect your computer to the router, and connect the pap2 device to your router.  You will then connect your phone(s) to the pap2 device.

 

Website services:

While you are given personal website space from Comcast and Verizon, you may want to play with designing website.  I use Catalog.COM , and I recommend them.

 

 

 

Catalog your music CD

Record your old tapes and vinyl into your computer using the line-in jack

 

Windows Startup Online®  Identify unknown Windows Startup items.


WHETHER THE SECOND AMENDMENT SECURES AN INDIVIDUAL RIGHT (it does)

Link to DOJ website

PDF of text


 

Protect yourself against Fraud and Identity Theft.

Frank Abagnale is one of the foremost experts in fraud and identity theft.  The first three services meet with his approval.   I personally use all of these services.

www.abagnale.com

www.supercheck.net

www.privacyguard.com

To place a credit alert

VVA Identity Theft Lawsuit

Check your credit score recommended by the Wall Street Journal


 


 

Click above to go to the link                 Click here to read the release from Patrolling - Winter 2005

 

CFR Title 38

VA FORM VBA-28-1900 Application for Vocational Rehabilitation - Start the process by filling out this form.

Military Records

Request your Military Records (DD214)

The Vietnam files

Music of the Vietnam Era

Amtracer's On-Line

 

 

"When I am dead, cry for me a little. Think of me sometimes, but not too much. It is not good for you to dwell too long. Think of me now and again as I was in life, at some moment which is pleasant to recall, but not for long. Leave me in peace as I shall leave you, too, in peace."

"Keep your fears to yourself, and share your courage with others". SGM Miller

Captain Swicker's Rules of Defense   from Small Arms Review

http://www.cbel.com/veterans/?order=alpha

Order XP Service Pack 2 CD from Microsoft




Super Emergency Tools Box. 
Do not run these unless David tells you specifically to download and run these program.

Recovery program for digital camera memory

Norton Software Issues

Anti-virus 2009 removal directions   malware (malban) program

 

Security Tools.  Do not run these unless David tells you specifically to download and run these program.

Completely wipe your hard drive Not the primary Windows partition

Completely remove deleted files

Windows Genuine Advantage Diags

  Windows Installer Cleanup Utility

  To verify that all Windows files are intact:  RUN  SFC /SCANNOW

 

 START  RUN  appwiz.cpl  (will allow you remove hot fixes)

 

  • Microsoft's OneCare Safety scanner (info page)
  • Eset's Online Scanner (info page)
  • TrendMicro's HouseCall Free Online Virus Scan (info page)

 


 

 Re-install Vista and re-format the hard drive:

Method 8: Use the Diskpart.exe utility to clean the disk, and then run Windows Vista Setup again

If you have tried all the methods that are listed in this section and the problem persists, use the Diskpart.exe utility to clean the disk, and then run Windows Vista Setup again.

Note Use this method only if you want to perform a clean installation of Windows Vista. When you clean the hard disk, it is formatted. All partitions and all data on the hard disk are permanently removed. We strongly recommend that you back up the files on the hard disk before you clean the disk.

To use the Diskpart.exe utility to clean the hard disk, follow these steps:
  1. Insert the DVD into the DVD drive.
  2. On the disk selection screen, press SHIFT+F10. A Command Prompt window opens.
  3. Type diskpart, and then press ENTER to open the diskpart tool.
  4. Type list disk, and then press ENTER. A list of available hard disks is displayed.
  5. Type sel disk number, and then press ENTER. number is the number of the hard disk that you want to clean. The hard disk is now selected.
  6. Type det disk, and then press ENTER. A list of partitions on the hard disk is displayed. Use this information to verify that the correct disk is selected.
  7. Make sure that the disk does not contain required data, type clean all, and then press ENTER to clean the disk. All the partitions and all the data on the disk is permanently removed.
  8. Type exit, and then press ENTER to close the diskpart tool.
  9. Close the Command Prompt window.
  10. Click the Refresh button to update the disk selection screen. This step lists the disk.
  11. Run Windows Vista Setup to perform a clean installation of Windows Vista.

Windows XP recovery console operation:

When the Recovery Console option is offered (Press R to start the Recovery Console), do so. You may be asked which Windows installation to enter, in which case type the number of the Windows installation you wish to work on (usually 1). When prompted, enter the Administrator's password for that Windows installation. If you did not set a password just press ENTERAt the command prompt, type chkdsk /r  (there is a space before the /)

Enter


More /tools



SVCHOST.EXE problems:

http://forums.microsoft.com/MSDN/ShowPost.aspx?PostID=1253475&SiteID=1

http://blogs.technet.com/wsus/archive/2007/04/28/update-on.aspx

WSUS patch (use the first one)

Hotfix patch # KB927891 

Microsoft tech report on svchost.exe 100% CPU cycle issue

Add Tools to MSCONFIG


Run the DrTCP021.exe tool from  HERE
 
Locate and select your Network Adapter from the "Dropdown Menu".
 
Now, input this value 256960 into the Box for "TCP Receive Window", leave the rest of the choices at "Default".
 
Now hit "Apply", and "Exit".
 
You must now re-boot your Computer for the Registry changes to take effect.
 
Go to the same Speed Test Sites that you were using before and compare the results.
 
This should help somewhat. Your mileage may vary.

Problem: A problem on your computer is preventing updates from being downloaded or installed via Windows or Microsoft Updates.

Here's how to solve the problem:

1. Click Start , then click Run and in the white box type
regsvr32 wuapi.dll and click OK

2. When you receive the message that the DLL has been registered, click OK and perform the same steps as outlined above except you will type in the below 6 enteries.  If you do not see the box that says that the DLL has been registered you typed in the wrong letters.  You will need to retype the command and try again.

r
egsvr32 wuaueng1.dll
regsvr32 wuaueng.dll
regsvr32 wucltui.dll
regsvr32 wups2.dll
regsvr32 wups.dll
regsvr32 wuweb.dll

source: http://www.technipages.com/error-a-problem-on-your-computer-is-preventing-updates-from-being-downloaded.html 


 


 

Partition removal option A
  1. On 3rd boot of the system, the ghost demo movie will pop up. After watching or exiting the movie, ghost welcome screen appears, customer clicks next.
  2. At this point, select uninstall, click next, and at the next screen, there will be an option to reclaim disk space from D and add to C. Click Finish.
  3. Message asks for confirmation that user wants to uninstall ghost; select yes, and then the progress bar appears.
  4. Dell System Restore pops up an informational message:
     
  5. We were unable to reboot your system. Please close all applications and Shutdown/Reboot manually.
     
  6. After pressing OK, the system reboots and Norton Ghost completes uninstall and gives the customer the option to reboot. Click yes and reboot immediately or on next boot it will take you to the next screens.
  7. System reboots to Windows Preboot Environment, and goes straight to the dialog screen above. User selects delete drive.
  8. At deleting D:, press reboot. The system will boot into Windows. Disk Manager will confirm that C is now the only drive, and will reflect the increased size.

     
  9. NOTE: XP may report ?new hardware detected?, and recommend rebooting but this is just a message Windows displays when the drive grows.
     
  10. Your drive deletion is done and hardware is in a ready state.

 
Partition removal option B
  1. Customer always has the ability to delete the D: via the WinPE (Windows Preboot Environment) recovery environment. Boot to the WinPE environment by pressing ctrl+F11 during boot, or run boot_dsr.exe from the c\dell\utilities\dsr folder. Accept Eula, select utilities tab.
  2. Select Delete Unused Backup Volume. Then select D: from the list (note warning screens talking about data being lost on the D:).
  3. Message asks user to confirm D: deletion.
  4. After deleting D, press reboot which will take you to Windows again. Disk Manager will confirm that C is now the only drive, and will reflect the increased size.

     
  5. NOTE: XP may report ?new hardware detected?, and recommend rebooting but this is just a message Windows displays when the drive grows.
     
  6. Your drive deletion is done and hardware is in a ready state.

Patrick Snyder
Microsoft Certified Professional
Technical Support Specialist
Americas Client Services-Gold Technical Support
866-876-3355 (Ext. 736-7660) Office hours MTWRF 8 AM to 5 PM MST.

Test your fax:

  1. Send a one page black and white text fax to 1-888-hpfaxme (1-888-473-2963).
  2. When your fax is received by the HP Test Fax Service, we will generate a return fax to you within five minutes confirming that we received your fax. This verifies that you can both send and receive a fax with your fax machine.
If you do not receive a return fax within 5-7 minutes, there may be a problem with the setup of your fax machine. Consult the user manual that came with the product for proper setup and configuration.
  NOTE: The most common cause of failure is that the fax number set in the Fax Header on the machine does not match the number of the phone line connected to the fax. Also, ensure that the fax header contains the full 10-digit telephone number of the fax machine, including the area code.

Directions to change your Outlook Comcast E-mail connection to SSL:

 

2)    Start Outlook

3)    Single click on TOOLS

4)    Single click on ACCOUNT SETTING or E-MAIL

5)    Single click on mail.comcast.net in the white box

6)    Single click on CHANGE

7)    You will now see your login information.  Single click on the MORE SETTING button on the lower right hand side of the Window.

8)    Single click on the ADVANCED tab.

 

You will make to change the setting on the ADVANCE screen so that they look like the below example.

The Incoming server (POP3) is now changed to 995 from the original value of 110.

The box that says This server requires an encrypted connection (SSL) is now checked.

The Outgoing server (SMTP):  is now changed to 587 from the original value of 25.

The Use the following type of encrypted connection:  Choose TSL from the dropdown list.  The original value was none.

Under Delivery the Leave a copy of this message on the server should remain unchecked

Single Click  OK

Big X out of all other Windows until you get back to the Outlook Window.

You have now setup up your e-mail for Comcast’s SSL Settings.


Commandcom How do I fix Error 1328: Applying patch?

EXPLANATION

Error 1328 is caused due to a failure to update definitions. In order to resolve this error Command Antivirus version 4.94.5 must be successfully updated using the file attached at the bottom of this web page.  

DETAILS

Step 1. Click Fix4945.bat file at the bottom of the page.

Step 2. Click Save

Step 3.  Save the file somewhere you can easily locate the file, such as the TEMP folder

Step 4. Locate the file Fix4945.bat, and double-click to run the file.

Step 5. Press any key to start the process.

Step 6. Update Command Antivirus by clicking the Update Now button.   

 

FIX4945.BAT  for version 4.94.5

FIX4938.BAT for version 4.93.7

To determine what version of Commandcom you are running.  Double click on the yellow C in the system tray, single click on HELP, single click on ABOUT.  Ideally you should be using version 4.94.5


To create labels in Outlook (mail merge to Word)


Own any PC in 60 seconds or less

 By Mark Joseph Edwards - www.WindowsSecrets.com

If someone can gain physical access to your computer, they can easily "own" it by either stealing it or breaking into it to access your data.

This week, I show you how easily an intruder can reset any Windows password � and how you can protect your data if someone gets his hands on your system.

How hackers set Windows passwords with ease

There's a maxim in the computer security world that states: If someone can physically access your computer, for all intents and purposes it's not your computer any more. This means that it's nearly impossible to physically secure a system if someone else can get free rein of it.

If someone can touch your computer, they can break into your computer. This reality can certainly be used against you; however, it can also be used to your advantage.

There are many cases when you might genuinely need to break into one of your own PCs. For example, you might have forgotten your administrator password, or the password become unavailable to you when a disgruntled employee left your company.

There's a relatively simple way that anyone can quickly reset Windows' administrator password. This technique is a much faster way to get into your data than using a password-cracking tool to try to figure out what the current password is.

Anyone can reset the administrator password

Petter Nordahl-Hagen's Offline NT Password and Registry Editor is a handy tool to have. It lets you reset Windows passwords and edit the Registry on any system that you can boot from a CD or a floppy disk. Don't let the "NT" part of the name fool you � the utility works on any version of Windows NT, 2000, XP, Server 2003, and Vista.

Using the tool might at first seem a bit daunting, since it's based on a tiny version of Linux. However, you don't need any knowledge about Linux to use the program. It's menu driven, easy to understand, and � once you've become familiar with it � you can reset the password for the administrator account or any other account in less than 60 seconds.

To use the tool, you'll need to download its boot disk image, as described at Nordahl-Hagen's site. Use this image to burn a CD or build a bootable floppy disk, as explained on the download page.

You then use the disk to boot the computer whose passwords you want to reset, and step through the menus one by one, as I explain below:

Step 1. Boot the system and, at the boot prompt, press Enter.

Step 2. The second prompt asks for the location of the Windows Registry. Here again, accept the default by pressing Enter.

Step 3. The third prompt asks which part of the Registry to load. The default is the Security Account Manager (SAM) database, where Windows stores its user and password information. Again, simply press Enter.

Step 4. The fourth prompt asks what action to take with the Registry. The default is to edit users and passwords. Yet again, press Enter.

Step 5. The fifth prompt asks you to choose a user account to edit. The default is Administrator, so press Enter.

Step 6. The sixth prompt asks you for a new password for the account you're editing. Press Enter to set a blank password, which you can later reset after booting back into Windows.

Step 7. Press ! (exclamation point) to exit the user editor.

Step 8. Press q to quit.

Step 9. When asked whether to write your changes to disk, enter y (for Yes) to confirm.

Step 10. The last prompt asks you if you want to perform a "New run," which starts the entire process over again. Enter n to exit, then reboot the computer into Windows.

That's all there is to it. After you've walked through the process one time, you'll see that you can repeat the process on another system in less than a minute.

Of course, you could encounter any number of instances along the way where you might need to deviate from the above process. For example, if you want to edit a different user account, you'll need to select that account. Or, if the Windows Registry is located in some nonstandard location, you'll need to enter the proper path. Finally, if you want to edit some other aspect of the Registry, you'd load that part of the Registry instead. For resetting passwords, however, I think you'll find in most cases that you can accept the program's defaults.

Keep in mind that the above process only works for local machine accounts � it will not work on domain accounts. For example, it won't work if you've lost the administrator password to Active Directory or a domain server. However, there are relatively simple solutions for those situation too, and you'll need Nordahl-Hagen's tool to get started.

Domain controller passwords can be reset

If you forget the administrator password for a domain controller system, you need to first reset the "local machine administrator" password (unless you already know what it is) using Nordahl-Hagen's offline editor. After resetting the "local machine administrator" account, you can reset the domain administrator account. You must use one of two alternative methods, depending on the operating system in use.

If you're using a Windows 2000 Server platform, visit John Simpson's Web site. He explains how to trick the server into launching a command shell with system level privileges. In the shell, you can reset the domain administrator password.

If you're using Windows Server 2003, you can't use John Simpson's technique. You can, however, use a technique outlined by Sebastien Francois. His technique involves installing a new service that resets the domain administrator password for you.


Problem: A problem on your computer is preventing updates from being downloaded or installed via Windows or Microsoft Updates.

Here's how to solve the problem:

1. Click Start > Run and type regsvr32 wuapi.dll

2. When you receive the message that the DLL has been registered, click OK and perform the same steps for each of the following commands under Start > Run:

regsvr32 wuaueng1.dll
regsvr32 wuaueng.dll
regsvr32 wucltui.dll
regsvr32 wups2.dll
regsvr32 wups.dll
regsvr32 wuweb.dll

source: http://www.technipages.com/error-a-problem-on-your-computer-is-preventing-updates-from-being-downloaded.html 


VA FORMS:

Application for Vocational Rehabilitation (1900)

 

KeyUpdateTool_enu


Failure to boot errors:

use recovery console

FIXBOOT

if that fails

FIXMBR


Geocaching Links

CacheRegister_Setup