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15 Windows XP Top Secrets
on Monday, June 9, 2008Even though more and more people are migrating to Windows Vista, Windows XP has really made its presence felt in this recent years and will not tail off so quickly, at least not in this near future. Though my laptop is Vista-ready, I doubt its capability of handling Windows Vista. I believe many share the same experience and the following pie chart (eches’ visitors) shows Windows XP still prevails the operating system distribution.
Enough with the statistic, now let’s get down to real deal. Since I anticipate many including myself will be using WIndows XP for another year or two, you definitely want to have these 15 Top Windows XP secrets up your sleeve.
1. Useful key shortcuts available
- Windows key + D - shows the desktop
-Windows key + M - minimizes all open windows
- Windows key + Shift + M - maximizes all open windows
- Windows key + E - Runs Windows Explorer
- Windows key + R - shows the RUN dialog
- Windows key + F - shows Search window
- Windows key + Break - shows System Properties box
- Windows key + TAB - Go through taskbar applications
- Windows key + PAUSE Display the System Properties dialog box
- Windows key + U Open Utility Manager
- ALT + TAB - Cycle through opened applications
- Hold down CTRL while dragging an item to Copy it
- CTRL + ESC Display the Start menu
- ALT + ENTER View the properties for the selected item
- F4 key Display the Address bar list in My Computer or
- NUM LOCK + Asterisk (*) Display all of the subfolders that are under the selected folder
2. Lock Windows to protect computer
You can lock Windows to protect the computer when leaving the station easily by creating a shortcut with the path rundll32.exeuser32.dll, LockWorkStation. The Windows key + L is also a shortcut to this feature.
3. Edit sysoc.inf to list all software
To show all software that can be removed from your computer (including protected Windows services), you can manually edit (using notepad for example) the sysoc.inf file located in Windows\inf\. Just remove the word hide next to the software pack.*Note* - use this at your own risk. Removing critical components of the system will make Windows instable.
4. Windows XP comes with IPv4 and IPv6
Windows XP comes both IPv4 and IPv6 support. To enable IPv6, you can install the protocols needed with the command “ipv6 install” in the command-prompt. Then type ipv6 /? to see the options. The installation will not remove the IPv4 protocols so your current configuration will still work.
5. Access Task Manager with shortcut
To access the Task Manager easier, you can make a shortcut that points to %windir%\system32\taskmgr.exe
6. Stop treating ZIP files like Folders
If you don’t want your Windows XP to treat ZIP files like folders, you can disable this component by running regsvr32 /u zipfldr.dll at the command prompt or Run dialog. If you start missing it, you can enable it by typing regsvr32 zipfldr.dll.
7. Run program as diffrent user
You can run a program as a different user. Right click an application and select Run As command.
8. Switch users leaving applications opened
You can switch users leaving the applications opened too (*NOTE* use this only when needed since it could lead to system instability).Go to Task Manager - processes and end the process explorer.exe. This will end only your session and not all applications. Then go to Applications tab, click New task and type runas /user:domainname\username explorer.exe. A password prompt will appear to login to the desired username. The user’s session will start, with all your previously applications running.I recommend to open first a command-line prompt and type runas /? to see all the options available.
9. Rename multiple files in Windows at once
Rename multiple files in Windows at once. Select them all, right click and select Rename. Enter the desired name. They will be renamed using what you specified, with a number in brackets to distinguish them.
10. Task kill feature in Windows
Windows has a task kill feature similar to Linux. Go to a command prompt and run the command tasklist to see running processes with PID numbers. Then type tskillto end the specific task. This forces an instant closing of the task.
11. Edit features with GPEDIT.MSC
You can edit many features by running gpedit.msc. You can add log on/log off scripts here and many features.
12. Edit accounts in the command prompt
You can edit accounts by running “control userpasswords2″ at the command prompt.
13. Use systeminfo.exe to see System Information
You can use the systeminfo.exe command in the command prompt to see System Information, including all Windows updates and hotfixes.
14. Disable system services for maximum performance
There are system services that you can disable to free up the system’s load. To access the interface that permits you to make changes to system’s services, type services.msc and the command prompt.This is a list of services that are *usually* useless and can be safely disabled.AlerterApplication Layer Gateway Service,Application ManagementAutomatic UpdatesBackground Intelligent TransferClipbookDistributed Link Tracking ClientDistributed Transaction CoordinaterError Reporting ServiceFast User Switching CompatibilityIMAPI CD-BurningIndexing ServiceIPSEC ServicesMessengerNet LogonNet MeetingRemote Desktop SharingNetwork DDENetwork DDE DSDMPortable Media Serial NumberRemote Desktop Help Session ManagerRemote RegistrySecondary LogonSmartcardSSDP Discovery ServiceUninterruptible Power SupplyUniversal Plug and Play Device HostUpload ManagerWebclientWireless Zero ConfigurationWMI Performance Adaptor
*NOTE*: Make sure you don’t need them since some applications you’re using could depend on them. If you make any application to fail by disabling any of the services, go back and enable it again.
15. Repair Windows XP by using the XP installation CD
If your system failes to start due to an error related to missing HAL.DLL, invalid Boot.ini or any other critical system boot files you can repair this by using the XP installation CD. Simply boot from your XP Setup CD and enter the Recovery Console. Then run “attrib -H -R -S” on the C:\Boot.ini file and delete it. Run “Bootcfg /Rebuild” and then Fixboot.
Conclusion:Some of the tips might give you goosebumps, quite advance for average users to contemplate. If that’s the case, leave them alone because there are many simple tips that don’t need extra study. Stick with the ones you are comfortable with. I hope you find these tips useful
How to fix infected Autorun.inf in your external drives
This problem occured several months ago, when the entire laptops and computer in my house were beleaguered with damaged Autorun.inf. I can vaguely recall the other symptoms of this problem but apparently I can’t double click to open my external hard disk and pen drives. Alternatively I need to right click on the external hard disk / pen drive icon and select open.
I didn’t apply any fixes back then because I couldn’t find any. I just realized the problem has long gone after I replaced AVG with Avast, obviously the virus/worm managed to sneaked up on AVG defense line.
Changing antivirus system is not really a good option due to a number of reasons. It’s tedious and time consuming. I’m sure you are not going to pick a free antivirus at random and get it installed in your computer. You will definitely spend some time to make comparison which one fits better with computer before you make a move.
Solution
Today, I stumbled upon Autorun Eater, a small application that can effectively keep malwares from infecting your autorun.inf. Most anti-malware apps out there will almost instantly remove any malware detected but more often than not they leave the ‘autorun.inf’ file behind. And what if the anti-malware app fails to catch the malware? Here is when Autorun Eater comes in handy.
Autorun Eater will remove any suspicious ‘autorun.inf’ files even before the user attempts to access the drive. These files are auto-backup’ed in case of false positives.
Here are some key features of “Autorun Eater”:
Scan and remove suspicious ‘autorun.inf’ files found in the root directory of all drives, A-Z, in real-time- Hotkey enabled to toggle scan- Start, Stop or Pause scan(with ‘option grey-out’)- Scan priority(normal/high)- Scan results are logged- Add and remove from startup entry- Fix 3 common registry entries commonly disabled by malwares
If you have problem like that, look no further, download this little program from the following link.
http://www.softpedia.com/get/Security/Secure-cleaning/Autorun-Eater.shtml
I didn’t apply any fixes back then because I couldn’t find any. I just realized the problem has long gone after I replaced AVG with Avast, obviously the virus/worm managed to sneaked up on AVG defense line.
Changing antivirus system is not really a good option due to a number of reasons. It’s tedious and time consuming. I’m sure you are not going to pick a free antivirus at random and get it installed in your computer. You will definitely spend some time to make comparison which one fits better with computer before you make a move.
Solution
Today, I stumbled upon Autorun Eater, a small application that can effectively keep malwares from infecting your autorun.inf. Most anti-malware apps out there will almost instantly remove any malware detected but more often than not they leave the ‘autorun.inf’ file behind. And what if the anti-malware app fails to catch the malware? Here is when Autorun Eater comes in handy.
Autorun Eater will remove any suspicious ‘autorun.inf’ files even before the user attempts to access the drive. These files are auto-backup’ed in case of false positives.
Here are some key features of “Autorun Eater”:
Scan and remove suspicious ‘autorun.inf’ files found in the root directory of all drives, A-Z, in real-time- Hotkey enabled to toggle scan- Start, Stop or Pause scan(with ‘option grey-out’)- Scan priority(normal/high)- Scan results are logged- Add and remove from startup entry- Fix 3 common registry entries commonly disabled by malwares
If you have problem like that, look no further, download this little program from the following link.
Auto Shutdown Tip For Windows Users
on Monday, June 2, 2008Do you always wonder how to shutdown your computer automatically? Have you ever wished you could schedule an auto shutdown at a certain time, without waiting for the virus scanning process or the CD/DVD burning process to be completed especially during the night?If so, this tip is for you! I will show you how to auto shutdown your computer without using any software in this tip.
To schedule the shutdown process, follow the steps below
- Click on Windows “Start” button and hit “Run”.
- Type shutdown.exe -s -t xxxx to the box and hit “Ok” button.
- The value xxxx means the time in second for the computer to be switched off. For example I’ve put 1800 to the box and my computer will shutdown automatically after 1800sec(30mins).
- After execution, a small window will appear to show you the time of system shutdown.
- If you wish to cancel the command, simply type shutdown.exe -a to the box in the “Run” option and hit “Ok” button. Then, the auto shutdown command will be removed and your computer will continue to run
You must be worried, “Will my computer shutdown properly with this command?”. Don’t worry! This tip is as safe as it should be. With this command, the computer will first close all running applications safely and shutdown properly after predefined time.
Most Often Used Windows Shortcut Keys
This post lists some keyboard shortcut keys you can use with Windows. Save your time, don’t hunt for icons any more! Try it now!
Most Often Used Windows Shortcut Keys
CTRL key related Ctrl+Alt+Delete = To open windows “task manager”.
Ctrl+Shift+Esc = To open windows “task manager”.
Ctrl+Esc = To open “start menu”.
SHIFT key related Shift = To prevent CD from automatically playing.
Shift+Delete = To delete items permanently.
ALT key related Alt+Tab = Switch through opened windows programs.
Alt+F4 = To close active windows program.
Alt+Enter = To open properties of selected item.
Alt+ SPACEBAR = Open the system menu of active window.
Alt+ SPACEBAR +N = To minimize the active program.
Alt+ SPACEBAR +R = To restore the active program.
Alt+ SPACEBAR+C = To close the active program.
Alt+ SPACEBAR+X = To maximize the active program.
Alt+ SPACEBAR+M = To move the active program.
WIN key related Win = To open “start menu”.
Win+R = To open “Run” dialog box.
Win+M = To minimize all opened windows.
Win+Shift+M = To maximize all opened windows.
Win+L = To lock keyboard in windows XP.
Win+E = To open “My Computer”.
Win+F = To open “Search” options.
Win+U = To open “Utility Manager”.
Win+D = To view desktop/minimize all windows.
Win+F1 = To view the detail windows help page.
Win+Pause = To view the “System Properties” dialog box.
Win+Tab = Switch through taskbar programs.
Win+F+Ctrl = To open “Search” for computers.
malaysian artistes for unity
on Friday, May 30, 2008
The SongOnce again, the spirit of “Malaysia Boleh!” comes alive… Over 120 Malaysians from all walks of life have contributed their talent and time in an effort to promote racial unity in the country.
Written by Pete Teo, the song “Here In My Home” brings together the sound of 16 local artists, namely Afdlin Shauki, Awie, Ning Baizura, Atilia, Jaclyn Victor, Reshmonu, Pete Teo, Jason Lo, KLG Sqwad, Altimet, Suki, Daniel Lee and Nikki Palikat
The music video itself is directed by the award winning duo of Yasmin Ahmad and Ho Yuhang; Topping all that, it showcases a star-studded cast of over 50 local personalities including football pundit Shebby Singh, AirAsia CEO Tony Fernandes, model Amber Chia, comedian Harith Iskander as well as actors Ida Nerina, Maya Karin and Sharifah Amani
Although it is primarily an English language composition, it also features 3 other languages [Malay, Mandarin and Tamil]
Both the song and the music video can be downloaded and streamed from various sites on the Internet for free at http://www.malaysianartistesforunity.info/
Written by Pete Teo, the song “Here In My Home” brings together the sound of 16 local artists, namely Afdlin Shauki, Awie, Ning Baizura, Atilia, Jaclyn Victor, Reshmonu, Pete Teo, Jason Lo, KLG Sqwad, Altimet, Suki, Daniel Lee and Nikki Palikat
The music video itself is directed by the award winning duo of Yasmin Ahmad and Ho Yuhang; Topping all that, it showcases a star-studded cast of over 50 local personalities including football pundit Shebby Singh, AirAsia CEO Tony Fernandes, model Amber Chia, comedian Harith Iskander as well as actors Ida Nerina, Maya Karin and Sharifah Amani
Although it is primarily an English language composition, it also features 3 other languages [Malay, Mandarin and Tamil]
Both the song and the music video can be downloaded and streamed from various sites on the Internet for free at http://www.malaysianartistesforunity.info/
Need More Info? Contact…
Official Project Website:www.malaysianartistesforunity.info
Media Contacts:Albert Law [6012-228-6410] [bamh112@gmail.com]Shima Nazatul [6012-206-6257] [nazatul.shima@gmail.com]
Official Project Website:www.malaysianartistesforunity.info
Media Contacts:Albert Law [6012-228-6410] [bamh112@gmail.com]Shima Nazatul [6012-206-6257] [nazatul.shima@gmail.com]
Youtube Google Video Grabber v1.0.0.0
on Friday, March 21, 2008
Youtube Google Video Grabber v1.0.0.0
YG Video Grabber is an easy to use program to download video files from google, youtube, ifilm and other sites.
You can download using grab and keep flash movies or videos and you can thereafter burn them to CD or DVD for offline viewing from the following twelve Sites: You tube, Google Video, Daily Motion, iFilm, Myspace, angryalien, ThatvideoSite, ZippyVideoes, Blip.tv, Break, Putfile, Bolt.
Download Links
http://rapidshare.com/files/25450503/Youtube_Google_Video_Grabber_v1.0.0.0.rar