Recent Comments
Comment by BobD on New PC? Do These 12 Things Now... (October 7, 2025 10:52 PM)
This is really packed with useful links and information. I Bookmarked this so I can pass it on to my friends. Thanks for the article! Bob D. ...
Comment by Gary on Time to Switch from Windows to Linux? (October 7, 2025 01:27 AM)
I don't understand all of the drama about Win 10 support ending! I have pcs and laptops with Win 95, XP, Vista, Win7, Win7 Pro, Win10 Pro, Win 11 and...
Comment by Catherine on New PC? Do These 12 Things Now... (October 5, 2025 01:14 AM)
On the subject of security software, I used Avast happily for several years until its increasing nagging became intolerable. Then I found that AVG cam...
Comment by Wolf! on New PC? Do These 12 Things Now... (October 4, 2025 11:42 PM)
Great article! Yes! Security software is important, and I like how the article emphasizes removing the McAfee and other bloatware. This is exactly wha...
Comment by peter on New PC? Do These 12 Things Now... (October 4, 2025 01:15 PM)
bob, you did not say anything about windows 11 S mode...
Comment by AstridR on New PC? Do These 12 Things Now... (October 4, 2025 06:08 AM)
As Mac user and long term Bob Rankin subscriber, I never cease to marvel at the Windows/Microsoft etc machinations that you reveal. Currently am usin...
Comment by Jeri on New PC? Do These 12 Things Now... (October 3, 2025 07:42 PM)
Enable System Protection by typing CREATE A RESTORE POINT in the search box on the Taskbar, Configure: choose how much of the hard drive to devote. Th...
Comment by Jon on New PC? Do These 12 Things Now... (October 3, 2025 06:50 PM)
Thank you yet again Bob! Just downsized my computer after a critical crash - physical dropped to hard floor.... I've been trying to remember which c...
Comment by hill on New PC? Do These 12 Things Now... (October 3, 2025 06:06 PM)
Also turn off Bitlocker encryption. I've seen it cause frequent problems and even total data loss whenever there are login password issues. If you don...
Comment by cropduster on Your Computer's Worst Enemy (Cows, Bees, or...?) (September 26, 2025 12:18 AM)
Tried Fanny for my Mac. The app didn't open, so absolutely nothing! Plus, there is no way to contact the developer....
Linux Articles
Time to Switch from Windows to Linux?
Some tech pundits will glibly tell frustrated Windows users “Just switch to Linux!” Yes, but what about your Windows programs, files and games? And will you need to learn an entirely new way of using your computer? Just a few years ago, those would have been significant hurdles. But the latest Linux systems are super friendly to Windows users, totally free, and even have a very similar look and feel. If you've had it with Microsoft, or you're dreading the move to Windows 11, read on for my tips on jumping ship and settling into your new Linux home...
...Are You Sick and Tired of Windows?
For millions of people still running Windows 7, a decision will need to be made this coming January, when Microsoft's support for that operating system ends. Moving to Windows 10 will mean learning something new, and may require updates to both hardware and software. One may as well consider other operating systems if there's going to be a learning curve anyway. Your options include Linux, Mac OS X, Android, Chrome OS, and others. Here are several alternatives to running Windows on your desktop, laptop or mobile device...
...A Free Windows XP Alternative
Okay... you know that sticking with Windows XP is like driving with bald tires on an icy highway. But you don't want to spend even a dime on another version of Windows. Fortunately, there's a free alternative operating system that will do pretty much everything that Windows XP does. Read on to learn if it's the right choice for you...
...Time to Upgrade Your Computer?
A reader asks: 'My Dell computer is almost 4 years old and is starting to feel slower than when it was new. Is it time to buy a new one, or should I upgrade it? I'm currently running Windows Vista, if that factors in somehow...
...Download Linux For Free
I see Linux mentioned in online forums, and people talking about dumping Microsoft Windows. I understand Linux is free, but I'm not clear on exactly what it is! Can I really replace Windows with Linux, and still have the web, email, word processing and all the other programs I currently use?
...Which Linux Version Is Right For Me?
I understand there are many variations on the Linux theme. I want to try Linux as a free alternative to Windows, but I feel like I'm in a diner with too many options on the menu. Can you give me a quick guide to selecting a Linux that meets my needs?
...Ubuntu Jaunty Jackalope
Ubuntu, the Linux-based operating system, is slick freeware with a web browser, office tools, games and a ton of other software. If you are hesitant to adopt Windows Vista or the new Win7, some of the recent Ubuntu updates may help you make the switch to a Linux desktop...
...Wanna Wubi?
If you've always wanted to try out Linux but were afraid it would mess up your current Windows system, Wubi is a free, painless solution for installing Ubuntu Linux. Here's how...
...Ubuntu Hardy Heron
I'm hearing good things about the latest Ubuntu Linux. Is there anything compelling enough in the latest release to save me from installing Vista on my next machine? Kinda hoping so...
...Ubuntu Linux Gutsy Gibbon
Is Linux ready for the masses? Or is it still a geeks club? The new Ubuntu Linux Gutsy Gibbon puts a little more polish on the Linux desktop and moves the focus toward everyday users. Check out the new features in Ubuntu Linux version 7.10 ...
...Running Linux In Windows
So you're ready to explore Linux, an operating system alternative to Windows or Mac. But you don't have an extra computer laying around. No problem... you can run Linux on your existing computer, without messing up your Windows system. Here's how...
...Ubuntu Linux Feisty Fawn
Ubuntu Linux 7.04 (Feisty Fawn), was recently released, and from installation to every day use, this version is the best so far. Read on to see what's new in this release for diehard Linux users and tire kickers, too...
...Running Windows on Linux
You run Linux... Maybe it's because no big company is going to dictate to you which OS you choose. Maybe you like Linux for its reliability, or for the fact it’s less apt to be a target for malware. Or maybe you like the lower cost of ownership compared to running Windows. But what about your favorite Windows programs? Is there any way to run them on your Linux system?
...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 and runs great even on older computers. Here are some tips on switching from Windows to Linux...
...Linux Help
I've heard a lot of buzz about Linux as a free alternative to Windows, but have hesitated because it seems a little geeky. Can you recommend an easy way to get started with Linux?
...Shell Script Programming - Loops
I'm just starting to program shell scripts in Linux. I can handle basic IF ... THEN ... ELSE stuff, but I'm having trouble with looping? Can you give me some examples?
...History of Linux
I know that Linux is an alternative to the Microsoft Windows operating system, but when and where did it originate, and why is it free?
...Help with Basic Linux Commands
New to linux? A reader today said I need to know some of the basic commands for a linux server that I accquired. Turns out I wrote the book on Linux. Well, one of them anyway...
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