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Ask Bob Rankin search results: work at home

Free Fax Number

"Every once in a while, I need to receive a fax, but I don't have my own fax machine. It's embarassing to tell business contacts that my fax number is the local Kinko's, and it's a hassle to drive there...

Geekly Update March 9

Here's your Geekly Update for this week, presented in small bytes. Get the scoop on gadgets & hardware, computer security, online happenings, social networking, web tech and search engines. Read on......

Speed Up Your Laptop

"My laptop is only a year old, but it seems to be running slower than when it was new. And it's definitely a lot slower than my desktop for most things. What can I do to speed up my laptop?"...

Has Your Computer Been Hijacked?

Computer hijacking happens when someone snatches control of your computer and makes it do his evil bidding. This is bad not only for the owner of the computer but also for the millions of Internet users against which the hijacked...

Should You Get 64-Bit Windows?

Most computer users, and new computers sold, use 32-bit technology and can only run 32-bit Windows. But faster 64-bit computers and 64-bit versions of the Windows operating system are also available. Is moving to 64-bit Windows the right move? Let's...

Five Things You Didn't Know Windows 7 Could Do

Windows 7 is still fairly new. It's full of little differences from earlier Windows versions, and surprises buried deeply in its complex features. Here are a few things you can do with Windows 7 that many people don't know about......

Recovery Disc for Windows Vista or Windows 7

When you buy a new PC these days, it is rare to receive a bundled CD-ROM or DVD disc containing the Recovery Disc software that you can use to try to repair or reinstall your operating system in the event...

What is the Apple iPad?

After months of rumor and hype unrivaled since Windows Vista was conceived, Apple finally revealed the final form of its iPad tablet computer on Wednesday, January 27, 2010. What's it all about, and what does it mean to you?...

Geekly Update January 26

Are Online Backup Services Safe?

The recent hack of Google by Chinese espionage agencies has raised concerns about the security and safety of online backup services. Is the protection provided by Mozy, Carbonite and other popular backup services enough to keep your files safe from...

Wireless Networking

Wireless networking has become the standard in homes and small offices. A wireless network eliminates cable clutter; makes it easy to move computers, printers, scanners, and other devices to convenient places as needed; and provides visitors with quick access to...

Cleaning a Monitor

Computer screens get dusty, dirty, and dingy just like windows. But unlike glass windows, computer screens are complex, sensitive electronic devices that can be damaged by incorrect cleaning. Here's how to clean various types of computer screens safely......

My Cholesterol Level is Too High!

After a routine physical, I got the news from my doctor that my cholesterol is too high. My diet is pretty healthy, and I'm not in bad shape for a 48-year-old guy. But this LDL and HDL stuff is a...

Geekly Update January 12

Internet Security Suites

"I recently got a new computer, and the free trial of McAfee antivirus is about to expire. I've been looking at Internet Security Suites, but there are so many options and features that my head is spinning. What should I...

Wireless N Routers

You may hear the terms "N router" or "802.11n" when discussing WiFi equipment. What is "N" and who needs it? Here's the scoop on N wireless, in plain English......

Geekly Update January 5

Add a Search Engine To My Site

"My website has grown to the point where it's difficult for visitors to find things without a lot of clicking. I've seen sites that have their own search engine, but I'm not a programmer so I don't know how that...

How to Buy a Laptop

A laptop computer makes a popular gift to give or receive. But the laptop landscape is dotted with thousands of species and subspecies. Which one should you choose, and how should you buy it - online or in a big...

Hubs, Switches and Routers

Many people wonder what the difference is between a networking hub, switch, and router. Some people don't know and don't want to know. But if you need to know, here is what you need to know......

Free Online College Courses

"What's the deal with online college courses... how can they be offered for free? Is there some catch involved, and will I get actual college credit if I take free online college classes?"...

Buy a Domain Name

"I want to create my own website, but I don't know where to start. Where can I buy my own .COM domain name, and how much does it cost?"...

Geekly Update December 7

Geekly Update November 30

HDTVs Under $500

HDTVs are fast becoming the rule when it comes to home entertainment purchases. However, while the number of different models to choose from has increased, prices on these high definition televisions is still significantly higher than a traditional television set....

Does PCTools Threatfire Boost Security?

"I've seen magazine ads for a security tool called PCTools ThreatFire, but I don't quite understand what it's supposed to do. Will it replace my anti-virus software, or do I need both?"...

Free Alternatives to GoToMyPC

If you need to access your own computer or someone else's from a remote location, you probably already know about GoToMyPC, which is often advertised on radio and TV. GotoMyPC's remote access service costs $20/month. But did you know that...

Windows Password Reset

"I changed my Windows login password yesterday, and now I can't remember it! Is there any way to reset the windows password, so I can regain access to my computer?"...

Inexpensive Computer Upgrades

"My computer is showing signs of age, but I can't afford a new one. What hardware upgrades do you recommend to improve speed and usability for those with older computers?"...

Surge Protectors

"I'm looking for a surge protector for my computer equipment and I'm wondering if those power strip models with built-in surge protection are any good. What should I look for when trying to protect my computer from lightning strikes?"...

Microsoft Office Web Apps

Office Web Apps is Microsoft's answer to Google Docs and other online office apps. Even if you don't have MS Office installed on your computer, you will be able to create, edit, save, and share Office documents with other people...

Geekly Update October 5

Here's your Geekly Update for the week of October 5th, presented in small bytes. Get the scoop on gadgets & hardware, computer security, online happenings, social networking, web tech and search engines. Read on......

Geekly Update September 29

Here's your Geekly Update for the week of September 29th, presented in small bytes. Get the scoop on gadgets & hardware, security patches, browser news, social networking, web tech and search engines. Read on......

Gems and Minerals

"I'm interested in learning about precious gems. But most of the sites I see are just online jewelry stores. Can you recommend any sites where I can get high quality information on gems and minerals?"...

Is Stamps.com a Scam?

"I hear radio ads for Stamps.com, promising the ability to print postage stamps at home, and $100 in bonuses. Is Stamps.com internet postage legit, or a scam?"...

Can My Boss See What I Do Online?

"Like most people, I do a little personal web browsing at work. But I'm wondering... Can my boss see what websites I visit?"...

Android Everywhere?

"I've been hearing the word 'Android' quite often these days, in connection with mobile phones and other devices. What is Android, and why should I care about it?"...

Which Online Backup Service Is Best?

If you listen to talk radio, you've probably heard online backup services like Carbonite, Mozy and iDrive advertising incessantly. Let's take a look at each of them, to see what they offer......

Which Blackberry Should I Buy?

So you've decided that the time is right to join the BlackBerry revolution, but there are so many options. RIM offers 5 different Blackberry models -- Pearl, Curve, Storm, Bold and Tour -- so let's take an in-depth look to...

Geekly Update September 2

Here's your Geekly Update for the week of August 24th, presented in small bytes. Get the scoop on gadgets & hardware, security patches, browser news, social networking, web tech and search engines. Read on......

Partition Managers

Partitioning your hard drive is like putting up a digital fence, splitting your hard drive into distinct sections, each for a specific purpose. It allows you to install multiple operating systems, or just keep different types of data in their...

Upgrade Vista to Windows 7

"I'm currently running Vista on my home computer, but I've heard that Windows 7 is faster. Should I upgrade my Vista to Windows 7, or leave well enough alone?"...

Geekly Update August 24

Geekly Update August 17

Here's your Geekly Update for the week of August 17th, presented in small bytes. Get the scoop on gadgets & hardware, security patches, browser news, social networking, web tech and search engines. Read on......

ATM Scams

Automated teller machines (ATMs) have been around for a few decades, and ATM scammers have been on the prowl for almost as long. Today most people use ATMs to do at least some of their banking, leaving millions of people...

Securing Your Router

Your router is the box that feeds your high-speed internet connection into your computer. But is it also an open door to hackers, crackers and wifi moochers? Learn how to secure your router…...

Hard Drive Backup Image

If you do everything just right, you'll end up with a perfect hard drive. Your operating system will be bug-free; your applications will play well together; your data will be neatly organized in folders; everything will be just perfect. And...

Geekly Update August 3

Here's your Geekly Update for the week of August 3rd, presented in small bytes. Get the scoop on gadgets & hardware, security patches, browser news, social networking, web tech and search engines. Read on......

Hard Drive Recovery Services

"My hard drive was making a clicking sound, and now it won't start up at all. Should I try to fix it myself, or send it to a hard drive repair service?"...

Geekly Update July 27

Here's your Geekly Update for the week of July 27th, presented in small bytes. Get the scoop on gadgets & hardware, security patches, browser news, social networking, web tech and search engines. Read on......

Online Computer Repair

"My computer is running slow and I think it might have a virus. What do you think of those online computer repair services? Are they reliable, or should I take it to a local computer repair shop?"...

Wireless Print Server

"I have a printer that I want to connect to my wireless network, but the printer does not have wireless capability -- just a USB connection. Is there a gadget I can buy to allow my printer to connect wirelessly?"...

Geekly Update - June 29

Here's your Geekly Update for the week of June 29th, presented in small bytes. Get the scoop on gadgets & hardware, security patches, browser news, social networking, web tech and search engines. Read on......

Windows 7 Half Price Offer

Thinking about upgrading to Windows 7? Microsoft is offering users of Windows XP and Vista a chance to get the Windows 7 Upgrade for half price......

Five Reasons Blu-Ray Will Fail

There seems to be a buzz lately that consumers are just not buying into Blu-ray. Here are five reasons why I think Blu-ray will ultimately fail in the consumer marketplace......

Alternatives to Adobe Reader

"I have to deal with a lot of PDFs, and Adobe Reader just takes too long to open. Are there any good, free alternatives for PDF viewing?"...

Windows 7 XP Mode

"I'm getting ready to upgrade my XP system to Windows 7. I've heard there is something called 'XP Mode' that will allow me to run XP programs. What exactly is XP Mode and which programs will need it?"...

Privacy Software

"I'm concerned about threats to my privacy while using my home computer. Can you recommend any good tools to help me use my computer and navigate the web safely, without compromising my privacy?"...

Webmail Smackdown!

Free Online Books

"I have a Kindle, and my wife owns a Sony eReader. We love our portable book readers, but we need to cut expenses. Can you recommend some online sources for free ebook downloads?"...

Free Online Research Tools

The Internet is at once a gold mine and a cesspool, so how can you find the helpful, authoritative information you need? Check out my list of the best free online reference and research tools......

What is OpenDNS?

"What exactly is OpenDNS? I've heard that it can be used to make your Internet access faster, but I'm a little fuzzy on how it works, and if there are any gotchas I should know about."...

Internet Explorer 8

"Should I upgrade to Internet Explorer 8? How does it compare to Firefox, when it comes to features, speed and security?"...

Free Apps for iPhone and iPod Touch

"I just got an iPhone and the number of free apps in the App Store is a bit overwhelming. I also find it hard to navigate through the apps. Can you recommend ten must-have free apps for iPhone?"...

Is Internet Speedway a Scam?

"I've heard those radio commercials for Internet Speedway saying 'Make thousands of dollars a week with your own Internet business.' It sounds too good to be true... so is Internet Speedway a scam?"...

The Lexicon of Online Evil

Hackers, black hats, cyber-criminals, identity thieves, and spam kings -- these are some of the Bad Guys in the online world. And because of them, we've had to invent a whole new vocabulary to describe the dastardly deeds they do....

Wireless HDTV

It's becoming a wireless world, and now that world is extending to the realm of HDTV. If you're tired of the clutter of cables going to and from your HD television screen, read on to learn how to wirelessly connect...

Private Browsing

"Some browsers now have a 'private browsing' mode which is supposed to eliminate your tracks while surfing the web. How well does this work in practice, and which browsers support the private browsing feature?"...

Turn Your PC Into a Home Theater

If you have a decent computer, why buy a home theater system that can cost thousands? For a lot less money, I'll show you how to convert your PC into an awesome home theater system at about the quarter of...

My New Phone is an iPod Touch

I had myself talked into buying a new phone, and was eagerly checking out the latest phones, smartphones and PDAs. But something happened on the way to the phone store......

What is TiVo?

What's the big deal with TiVo? Is it just a glorified VCR, or is it really a revolutionary new way to watch television? Get the scoop on TiVo here......

Which DVR Should I Get?

So you want to record movies and your favorite shows from your fancy HD television? Most people think of TiVo first, but you've got options when it comes to selecting a DVR service. Here's the scoop......

Upgrading to Windows 7

"Will I be able to upgrade my XP system to Windows 7? I'm hoping I don't have to upgrade to Vista in order to install Windows 7. What's the scoop?"...

Free Firewall Protection

"Everyone says that if you have an Internet connection, you should have a firewall. But can I use a free firewall, or should I pay for one of the commercially available firewall packages?"...

Windows 7 is Coming

Windows 7 does not sleep... it waits. Will the eagerly awaited successor to Vista be a winner in the marketplace? Read on for a preview of what to expect in Windows 7......

Terabyte Hard Drives

"I've been thinking about buying a terabyte hard drive. Right now I have a 500GB drive. Are the terabyte drives as fast and reliable as smaller drives?"...

HD Mini Cams

"I love my Flip Video mini cam, but it doesn't record in HD (high definition). Should I upgrade to the Flip MinoHD, are there other HD mini cams I should check out?"...

Parental Control Software

"I have pre-teen children who are just starting to get interested in the Web. What parental control software do you recommend?"...

Is Blu-ray Doomed?

"I'm thinking about buying a Blu-ray player, but I've read some reports that claim Blu-ray may not survive in the marketplace. What's your take on Blu-ray's chances of long-term success?"...

Passport 9500ci Radar Detector

Escort bills it as "The World's Most Intelligent Custom Installed Radar and Laser Defense System." With a price tag of $1600, the Passport 9500ci had better be. Let's check out what makes this little dashboard device smarter, quieter and more...

Cloud Computing

"I'm hearing the term Cloud Computing more and more. One friend told me that it means computers will soon not need a hard drive. Is that correct?"...

Avast Free Anti-Virus

"It seems there are lots of choices for a free anti-virus program. My neighbor swears by Avast! Anti-Virus and says it's better than Avira, which I currently use. Is Avast! worth looking into, or are they all pretty much the...

Internet Security Cameras

"I have someone in my home during the day to clean and do childcare. Can I install a wireless security camera that can be monitored over the internet? I'd like to be able to look in during the day from...

Free Fax Software

"I want to send a fax, but I don't have a fax machine. Can I use fax software on my computer to send or receive a fax? If so, what free fax software is available for Windows? I have a...

Is Free Wifi Illegal?

"Sometimes when I'm away from home, I'll park my car, fire up the laptop and get online with a free unsecured wireless signal. Is this legal?"...

Wifi Sniffers

"I'm thinking about buying a Wifi sniffer to help me find wireless networks when I'm travelling. How good are the various devices, and are they legal?"...

Gmail Labs

Gmail has been my favorite web-based email service for several years, and one of the things I like is that they're always adding new features and experimenting with various options to make it easier to use. Have you heard what's...

Malware Scanners

"There are so many malware scanners to choose from, when trying to protect against adware, spyware and other online threats. Which one(s) do you recommend?"...

Cell Phone Signal Boosters

Sometimes your cell phone can't pick up a good signal inside a building, on the road, or in remote areas. In some cases, a cell phone signal booster might help. Here's the scoop on which ones work and which to...

Online Photo Editing

"What do you recommend for quick photo editing when you're away from your own computer and you don't have PhotoShop or something similar available?"...

What is a Botnet?

"I've read warnings about getting caught up in a botnet, but I still don't understand the danger. Can you explain in simple terms what a botnet is, and how to avoid them?"...

Free Inbound Faxing

"I occasionally need to receive an inbound fax, but I don't own a fax machine. Going to Kinko's or the local drugstore to pick up a fax is a nuisance, and nothing is private there. Is there some way to...

External Hard Drive Security

"I want to backup my home computers to an external hard drive, but I'm worried about security. If the drive is lost or stolen, all my sensitive personal and financial data goes with it. Is there a way to password...

Accessing Blocked Websites

If you are a student, employee, or part of the military, you've probably experienced the frustration of not being able to access certain websites or even your webmail. Fortunately there are some things you can do to access these blocked...

My Favorite Software

In the course of doing my job, I use certain programs on a regular basis. On any given day, I might be doing word processing, web design, programming, image editing, trouble shooting, and of course email and web surfing. Here...

iPhone Accesories

There's no shortage of accessories out there when it comes to the iPhone. So I've compiled a list of the coolest and most useful add-ons to complement your iPhone....

Bonzai - It's a New Puppy!

I know I'm supposed to write about computers, the Internet and nifty gadgets, but life is more than all that electronic stuff. I'm so happy with my new puppy that I've just got to show him off......

Upgrade to Windows XP SP3

"I've heard that Microsoft just released a new service pack for Windows XP. Is SP3 going to make my XP machine run faster and jump higher? Or should I avoid it? I remember the SP2 hassles... What's your take on...

What is Hulu?

"I checked out Hulu and was impressed by the amount of popular TV shows available for free there. Almost seems too good to be true, so… is it?"...

Disable Vista UAC

"I'm getting popups on Vista saying "Windows needs your permission to continue." Is this spyware or something I need to deal with? If it's part of Vista, can I turn this annoying 'feature' off?"...

Automatic Backups

"My hard drive failed last week, and my latest backup was a year old. So I lost pretty much ALL of my important files. Can you recommend an AUTOMATIC backup that just works?"...

10 Ways To Boost Your WiFi Signal

You finally got that wireless router, but the wifi signal is not so great in some parts of the house. Here's how to boost your wireless signal strength......

Content Management Systems

If you maintain a website, a content management system (CMS) can make it easier to add or update information, whether it has 10 pages or 10,000 pages. Read on to learn what a content management system can do for you,...

Buying an HD TV

"I'm ready to buy an HD TV set, but I'm not sure how to compare the various options. Can you demystify the terminology and the HDTV buying process for me? And maybe recommend a few specific HD TV models?"...

Mac OS X Leopard

Apple's newest operating system, released in the Fall of 2007, is Mac OS X Leopard. Like it's feline namesake, this OS is slick and sleek and features all the multimedia bells and whistles Apple users have come to expect. Since...

Portable Inkjet Printers

Printers just keep getting smaller. No longer do you have to drag your clunky inkjet printer on a business trip, or hustle home to print photos from your digital camera. Small inkjet printers are stow-and-go so you can catch the...

Cheap Desktop Computers

"I'm looking for a basic entry-level desktop computer to give to a high-school student as a Christmas gift. What do you recommend in the budget category that can handle web surfing, email and word processing?"...

What is GnuCash?

"I've heard that GnuCash is a free accounting program, similar to Quicken. So it's free, but how does it compare with Quicken or Microsoft Money, for basic household or small business accounting?"...

People Search

"I'm trying to find some old friends from high school. What are the best people search tools on the Internet? Free is nice, but I'll pay for a really good people finder tool if it can save me a lot...

Skype: Beyond the Basics

You already know that Skype allows you to use VoIP technology to make phone calls over the Internet. Here's a look at some of the more advanced features, and how to incorporate them into your work or social life......

The New Zune

"Just a few days ago I was wondering whatever happened to the Zune. Now I'm seeing commercials for the new improved Zune. Is it worth another look as an iPod alternative?"...

What is a Mashup?

"I hear the term mashup being used to describe certain websites, but I'm not sure what it means. Can you explain what a mashup is, and where the word comes from?"...

Job Search Online

"Last week my job was 'downsized' so I'm searching for a new job. Where can I post my resume and search for a job online? Are there any gotchas to be aware of?"...

Maps and Driving Directions

Thanks to online maps, there's no excuse for getting lost on the Internet. These excellent online mapping tools will get you from one place to another, and some are interactive. The new breed of online maps are aware of businesses,...

HP OfficeJet Pro L7780

HP is known for its versatile line of business and home office equipment. One of their latest releases is the HP OfficeJet Pro L7780 All-In-One. This office machine operates as both a color and a black and white printer, copier,...

Vista to XP Downgrade

Windows Vista was launched with much fanfare and was touted as the operating system for a new generation with a slick graphical interface and many new features. But the reaction to Vista has been mostly lukewarm, and many customers are...

What is Craigslist?

Who is Craig, and what's on his list? If you have something to sell, or something to say, and you haven't heard of Craigslist, read on......

What is a Terabyte?

"I just saw an ad for a Terabyte hard drive. What exactly is a terabyte?"...

Buying a Laptop

Laptops are a great option for people who need to compute on the move. In the past, laptops were bulky, heavy and slow. But today, laptop technology has advanced and today's models are fast, light and offer nearly the same...

Jott - Note to Self

Jott is a cool new service that will convert your voice into email or a text message. Just call a toll-free number from your cell phone, and leave a voice message. Jott will translate your spoken words into text, and...

Sharing A Hard Drive Online

"I have photos, MP3s and some Word documents on my hard drive. How can I share my hard drive online so that just certain people can access my files? My colleagues have Internet access but we do not share a...

Top 10 Sites for Students

It’s back-to-school time again... parents breathe a sigh of relief and students groan under the load of spiffy new backpacks. Of course you want to help you child succeed in school, so here are some sites that will inspire kids...

Share A Printer Online

"Is it possible to print over the Internet? Sometimes I'm working at home and would like to print directly to my office printer. Both computers are online, so it seems like it should be possible to print over the Internet....

Top Ten Sites for Teachers

Back to school time seems to sneak up on us each year, but with the assistance of the Internet it is easier than ever for teachers to formulate lesson plans or spice up the ones they already have....

Free Anti-Virus Programs

"I've been using the free Norton antivirus package that came with my computer, but the subscription will expire in a few days. Are the free anti-virus programs any good? What do you recommend?"...

Computer Privacy At Work

Can the boss really see when you're surfing the Internet at work? Can the geeks from the IT Department monitor everything you do on your PC? Are any of them keeping tabs on those last twenty minutes of your lunch...

Do Not Call Registry

"I keep getting emails from friends about adding my cell phone to a Do Not Call registry. Looks like a scam to me... Is the Do Not Call Registry for real, and if so, should I put both my home...

Science Fiction Sites

It’s sometimes difficult these days to differentiate between science fiction and fact, because the two worlds often borrow ideas from each other. If you've ever read Alfred Bester's classic 1956 sci-fi thriller "The Stars My Destination", or Ray Bradbury's space...

Top Sites for Kids

"My eleven year old wants a Myspace account, but I think she's a bit young for that. Are there some other sites I can encourage her to visit, with games and activities that are appropriate for pre-teen kids?"...

Baby Care

The excitement and joy of new life is often met with a little anxiety. Here are some of the best parenting resources on the web today, providing you with confidence, support and information you need to make the best choices...

Gas Mileage Tips

High prices at the gas pump continue to put the squeeze on family budgets, recent fluctuations not withstanding. It seems like $3 per gallon gas is here to stay. While there’s no magic pill or bolt-on gizmo that will magically...

What is Slingbox?

Imagine you're in a hotel room, on another continent... you fire up the laptop, and with a few clicks, you're watching the same cable or satellite TV programming that's in your living room at home. You can change the channel,...

Facebook - Getting Started

Looking for an alternative to an oversaturated MySpace? Facebook is a great alternative for the college and professional set. A little more serious than MySpace, Facebook is more than just competing to see who can have the most friends. Facebook...

Dual Monitors

Did you ever wish you had a REALLY big computer screen? Here's a tip... use a dual monitor (or multi monitor) setup to extend your desktop across two or more screens. Both Windows and Mac computers have the ability to...

What Is a Rootkit?

Rootkit... the name sounds innocent enough. Kinda like something your Grandma would use in her garden. Actually, rootkits are a particularly nasty form of malware, created to wreak havoc on computers....

Switching From Windows To Linux

If you thought computers only came in two flavors, think again. There are other operating systems besides Mac and Windows. In fact, most of the computers that power the Internet are running Linux. This free operating system is robust, secure...

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

About ten years ago, when I worked as a programmer at IBM, my wrists began to get very sore and painful. Every night I had to come home and ice them down to ease the pain and swelling. The doctor...

Secure Passwords

"With identify theft so common now, I'm concerned that my passwords may not be good enough. Can you give me some tips to picking good passwords that can't be easily guessed by hackers?"...

Which TV Should I Buy?

So you're in the market for a new TV... but all those techie buzzwords have your head spinning? Should you go for CRT, LCD, HDTV? And what about Plasma -- will it stain the rug? Read on to de-mystify all...

Voice Recognition

Didja ever notice that Captain Kirk never had to fuss with a mouse or keyboard to communicate with the computer on the Star Trek? He simply spoke direct commands at the machine, and the computer complied. Happily, voice recognition technology...

What is Bluetooth?

This is the age of wireless devices. Information is relevant only if it is accessible anywhere and everywhere. From phones to computers, every device is aiming at becoming wireless and providing more accessibility to the users. Read on to learn...

Switching From Windows to Mac

Devoted fans of Macs and PCs have been in heated debate for years, even before those "I'm a Mac", "I'm a PC" commercials ever appeared. Let's set aside the question of which camp is "right" and focus on the reasons...

What is Web 2.0?

"I keep seeing articles that mention something called Web 2.0, but they never give a good definition. What is Web 2.0? How is it different than the one Al Gore invented, and when is Web 3.0 coming?"...

Which Camcorder Should I Buy?

"I'm looking for a camcorder, but the selection and features are overwhelming. What's a good model for someone who wants decent quality without spending a pile of money?"...

Top Ten Tech Gadgets

Looking for some uber-cool gadgets to trick out your personal computer? Here are my picks for the top ten gadgets, guaranteed to make everyone else in the office (or home office) jealous......

Myspace Trackers

"I visited someone else's Myspace profile and saw a little graphic that said "You've been tracked!" Can people really track who is visiting their Myspace pages?"...

Beyond Myspace

As the Myspace population passes 100 million members, the site seems to be creaking and groaning, ready to burst at the seams. With frequent outages, valid passwords being rejected, problems with music players, and comment spammers, you might be looking...

What is Second Life?

"Some of my friends are really into Second Life, they say it's the future of the Internet. Looks like Sim City on drugs to me... What is the big deal with Second Life -- who is playing and why?"...

Upgrade to Vista?

"I'm confused about upgrading to Windows Vista. There are so many options, prices, and new features. Which ones are really important, and is Vista ready for prime time?"...

Download With Bittorrent?

"I've been told that I can download movies and even popular software for free using Bittorrent. Sounds too good to be true… What exactly is Bittorrent, is it legal, and safe to use?"...

Hide Your SSID?

"I have a wireless network at home, which lets me get an internet connection on my laptop all over the house. But I'm concerned that neighbors or people driving by can hack into my computer. A friend said that hiding...

Wireless Printing

I have a laptop with no printer attached. But I do have a wireless network in my home, and one of the desktop computers on the network has a printer. How can I print from the laptop, over the wireless...

Wireless Laptop

"Currently in my home I have a desktop computer that is for family use, and I have a laptop for work. When I bring my laptop home, I have to unhook my DSL line and hook it to my laptop....

AOL for Free?

"I read somewhere that AOL is going to stop charging for their Internet service and make AOL access free. Is that true, and if so, are there any gotchas I should now about?"...

Spam Blocker

"I'm having a terrible time with spam emails. Suddenly I started getting dozens per day, and I can't seem to get rid of them. Is there a spam blocker or spam filter that's easy and just works?"...

Senior Citizens Online

"I'm a long-time computer user, almost 80 years young, but I'm no expert at Internet searching. Can you point me to some sites that are especially useful to senior citizens?"...

Banning Myspace

"My school has banned Myspace, so we can't access it from any computer in the school. They are also making new rules about what we can post on our private Myspace profiles. One kid got suspended for criticizing the principal...

Photo Printing and Sharing

To say that digital cameras have revolutionized photography would be an understatement. It's not just the way we take pictures that has changed, but photo printing, photo storage and photo sharing have all gone digital as well. Free digital photo...

Google SMS

You've got a burning question... but you're stuck somewhere with no internet connection. News Flash... Google SMS lets you search the web from your mobile phone! Google SMS serves up answers to specialized queries, and it's as simple as sending...

Websites for Kids

"As a parent with young children, I worry that there are so many dark alleys on the Internet for kids to wander into. Can you recommend some GOOD sites and offer any help on keeping kids safe online?"...

802.11n Wireless Networking

"I've seen a new wi-fi adapter that claims to be a HUNDRED TIMES FASTER than the currently available ones. Is this new 802.11N technology really that fast, and will it work with Windows XP?"...

Bad Stuff

The Web is just brimming with "best of" sites. But what about the bad, the ugly and the truly awful? In the spirit of admiring the atrocious, displaying the deplorable, and highlighting the heinous, let me present you with some...

Secure Your Computer!

Cyberspace malefactors are enslaving millions of unsecured computers into zombie networks that are responsible for spewing out mountains of spam and attacking legitimate websites that oppose the spammers. Is your PC part of the problem? Find out now......

Blocking Myspace

"My daughter is 12 years old and I just found out she has a Myspace account with some stuff that's not appropriate. The account was deleted, but I want to make sure she has no access to Myspace in the...

Myspace Safety Tips

Are teens putting themselves at risk by posting too much personal information on Myspace? Is Myspace a danger to kids that should be tightly controlled or shut down?...

Searching in Myspace

"I understand that once I'm logged in to my Myspace account, I can search for people that meet certain criteria. For example, I may want to search for guys over 40 within 60 miles of my city that have "softball"...

Windows on a Mac

"I've heard that Apple is now making Mac computers with Intel chips, which power Windows PCs. Does this mean I can now install Windows on a Mac?"...

Sharing a Printer

"I have two computers but only one printer. I understand there is a way to share the printer so both can print to it. Can you tell me how to do that?"...

Is public wi-fi access safe?

If you use wireless Internet access in public places like Starbucks or the airport, you should take some simple precautions to make sure you're not broadcasting your passwords and other personal info to others in the vicinity......

Best Educational Software and Technology

My youngest daughter learned phonics and reading skills on my lap at the age of three, then went on to read every book and encyclopedia in the house. We had to go to yard sales, just to keep up with...

How to Stop Spam

It is estimated that 70% of emails sent over the Internet are unsolicited commercial e-mail. When you consider that over 35 BILLION emails are sent every day, the impact of spam is staggering. Here's what YOU can do to stop...

Which PDA Should I Buy?

The proliferation of PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants) in the last several years has been staggering, and a wide range of products exists to satisfy the needs of everyone from the busy stay-at-home Mom to the power hungry Internet geek on...

Home Networking

"We just purchased a second computer and now we'd like to share the printer and Internet connection between them. How do I set up a simple home network?"...

Inkjet Cartridges - Replace or Refill?

Inkjet printers are cheap. Keeping them stocked with ink can cost a small fortune. The manufacturers say to use only new original equipment cartridges, in part because it's an important piece of their revenue stream. But on the shelf at...

Convert VHS to DVD

Let's face it... your old VHS tapes with treasured family memories won't last forever. Even if the VCR doesn't eventually jam and eat the tape, a VHS recording uses fragile magnetic tape that degrades over time -- whether you watch...

Should I Buy Anti-Spyware or Anti-Virus Software?

"Task Manager shows I have 50+ processes running, and I have no idea which ones are slowing down my system. Should I regularly run SpyBot, AdAware and other freeware, or should I pay for a supposedly better program? I read...

Computer Humor

"Every day I get the same lame jokes in my email that have been making the rounds for years. Are there some websites you can recommend for really good computer humor?"...

Wireless Security

"Is it safe to use wireless Internet access in my home? I've heard that neighbors or even people driving by can tap in to my wireless signal. There must be a way to do it safely, since it's so common...

Free Internet Software

So, you've got a web browser and an email program... Is that all the Internet software you'll ever need? Maybe, but first take a look at some of the nifty tools that are reviewed in this article. I think you'll...

Get an Uninterruptible Power Supply

"During stormy weather the power often flickers in my home, causing my computer to reboot. And of course I lose whatever I was working on at the time. I've heard that an uninterruptible power supply will protect my computer from...

Remote Access to Your Computer

"I carry a laptop when I travel, but I always seem to forget some important files at home on my desktop PC. Is there some way I can access the files on my home computer through the Internet?"...

Internet Innovators: Dave Taylor

Back in 1995-96 I worked for BoardWatch Magazine, covering the world of Bulletin Board Systems and the fledgling Internet. One of my favorite parts of that job was interviewing prominent netizens of the day. Some may boast about being self-made...

Backing Up Your Files

Sooner or later, something terrible will happen to your hard drive. That's not a very happy thought, but the good news is you can survive a hard drive failure with only minimal inconvenience -- if you back up your files....

Do I Need a Firewall?

"I've heard conflicting reports on whether or not I should be using a firewall. Some people say they are only needed for dialup users. Others say you MUST have a firewall if you have a highspeed DSL or cable connection....

Internet Connection Fails

"I am using XP home with a cable modem connection, and quite often using while online, I get the error of can't find the server. I just lose my internet connection, and it says my TCP/IP needs resetting. How do...

What is RSS?

I keep hearing about RSS, XML and RSS feeds. I have only a vague idea of what they are, but then people start talking about RSS aggregators, and I get really confused. What are they talking about and why would...

The Nerds of Words

Everyone knows that Nail-Biting Refreshes The Feet. Oops! I meant to say that The Best Things In Life Are Free. How did that come out so wrong? I must have had my brain hooked up to that anagram generator too...

Paypal and Ebay Phishing Scams

"I keep getting warnings and alerts from Paypal, eBay, my bank, and various other banks and financial institutions that I don't even have accounts with, all telling me to log in and verify my account information. I've read about something...

Can't Share Laptop on Network

I can't get my laptop to share properly on my home network even though I have both the C: drive and the My Documents folder on the laptop and my main PC set for sharing. From my main PC, I...

Copying Old Hard Drive to New PC

"When I buy a new computer, how do I transfer everything from the hard drive on my old computer? I enjoy the Tourbus and appreciate all the information you provide." If you bought a new computer, or just a new...

Printing a .PRN file

"If I'm using my laptop away from the office and I choose to print something and select "print to file" (since I don't have a printer with me) it creates a .PRN file, but how can I print that file...

Emails converted to attachments

"My boss is using Outlook 2000 and sometimes he receives his emails from other employees as plain text email attachments. For example I send him an HTML email in Outlook 2000. He receives a totally blank email and my text...

Should I upgrade to Windows XP x64?

Recently my partner in crime Patrick Crispen answered this question in a Tourbus newsletter posting. Here's what he had to say: You may have heard about a new version of Windows XP - Windows XP Professional x64 Edition - that...

How can I avoid computer viruses?

When I wrote in a previous entry "Do I need anti-virus software?" that "You CANNOT get a virus just by opening or reading your email" I fully expected it would unleash a torrent of emails in response. I knew this...

Spy, Counter-Spy

Is your computer running slower than usual? Has your browser's start page been hijacked? Having trouble reaching your favorite search engine? Popups driving you crazy? Most likely your computer is infested with spyware, the cockroaches of the digital age....

Search Tips

For best results, use just ONE or TWO keywords. This search engine looks for all words in any order. To search for an exact phrase, enclose the phrase in quotes. You may also use AND, OR, and NOT keywords to specify boolean expressions. For example:

"format drive"

spyware OR virus

phone NOT cell

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