Good Day All.
Well, we've successfully reached the end of another semester, and we've learned so much about the workings of Vista during this time.
Thanks to your feedback and comments, I was able to become more acquainted toward the full range of things Vista is capable of. Now, I have enough grounding as a result, allowing me to puzzle more complex settings and features that Vista can hold.
May the rest of you have luck in your endeavors as well.
Enyal
Friday, December 14, 2007
Alternative Operating Systems
Hello All!
We've had an excellent semester learning about Vista, but we all know that there are other types of operating systems other than Vista as options open for perusal by the user. For example, two readily come to mind: MacOS and Linux.
MacOS is a rival to Vista in terms of stability and features, as well as accessibility and custom options. The various attachments that come with extras (such as a "time machine" feature for the recycle bin) are well worth examining as well. However, it does cost a good chunk of change for such stability.
Which brings us to Linux, a free-source, bare-bones operating system that can run a computer without all the uneeded extras. It also is unique in the fact that one can tweak and reprogram it to their needs and their hearts delight. There is one provision for all this, though; if one reprograms a whole new feature, it must beshared amongst all Linux users.
Hope the info helps!
Enyal
We've had an excellent semester learning about Vista, but we all know that there are other types of operating systems other than Vista as options open for perusal by the user. For example, two readily come to mind: MacOS and Linux.
MacOS is a rival to Vista in terms of stability and features, as well as accessibility and custom options. The various attachments that come with extras (such as a "time machine" feature for the recycle bin) are well worth examining as well. However, it does cost a good chunk of change for such stability.
Which brings us to Linux, a free-source, bare-bones operating system that can run a computer without all the uneeded extras. It also is unique in the fact that one can tweak and reprogram it to their needs and their hearts delight. There is one provision for all this, though; if one reprograms a whole new feature, it must beshared amongst all Linux users.
Hope the info helps!
Enyal
Computer Health Results
Hello All!
Just wanted to show the results of my computer health test: we are a-okay over here, no anomalies or errors to report!
Enyal
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Performance Tweaks
Hello All!
Today, I played around with the performance settings within windows to see what would happen, and found three settings that one can use:
Performance: adjusts computer settings for optimum performance
Appearance: adjusts setings for maximum display settings
Custom: user-selected combination of settings. Risky if you do not know what you're doing.
I decided that the best roue for me would be to maintain default settings for now.
Enyal
Today, I played around with the performance settings within windows to see what would happen, and found three settings that one can use:
Performance: adjusts computer settings for optimum performance
Appearance: adjusts setings for maximum display settings
Custom: user-selected combination of settings. Risky if you do not know what you're doing.
I decided that the best roue for me would be to maintain default settings for now.
Enyal
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Performance Postings
Hey All!
This entry will dialog three diagnostic tools Vista employs to protect itself from errors: ScanDisk, DiskDefragment, and Disk Backup. Included are a few screenshots to show these features off. One was copied by accident.
ScanDisk is a utility which can be activated at start-up to search your file extensions and archives for any errors that may exist (during start-up, screencapture is unfortunately disabled).
DiskDefragment solves the problem of slow file access via the reorganization of files, so as to streamline the process of file access and overall computer speed issues.
Backup allows you to save a copy of your system files so that you may be prepared for the possibility of fatal errors; just reinstall the backup, and you're set.
The results: my computer and I are ready for anything.
Enyal
Monday, December 3, 2007
Bun of RUN!
Konnichiwa All!
Today, I take a break from Finals panic-mode to tell you of the function I found with the Run command function.
Though there is many a command that can accomplish an interesting effect within Vista, I find the most simple to be the most amazing: "cmd".
From this simple letter string, a user may enter any command that he may wish and set off a chain reaction within their system; it is quite literally the starting domino of a complicated chain reaction.
While it may be simple, it would do well to not underestimate the importance it holds to the core operations of the system.
Enyal
Today, I take a break from Finals panic-mode to tell you of the function I found with the Run command function.
Though there is many a command that can accomplish an interesting effect within Vista, I find the most simple to be the most amazing: "cmd".
From this simple letter string, a user may enter any command that he may wish and set off a chain reaction within their system; it is quite literally the starting domino of a complicated chain reaction.
While it may be simple, it would do well to not underestimate the importance it holds to the core operations of the system.
Enyal
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Diagnostic Drection
Hello All!
Just a reminder to all who have an online connection - if you are having issues with your network, run a diagnostic which can be found here on your computer.
Just press the button pictured there, follow the directions and you'll be back online before you know it.
Enyal
Monday, November 12, 2007
New RSS Feeds
Hey All!
Here are some new RSS feeds for several popular computer games...
http://planetelderscrolls.gamespy.com/show_rss.php
http://planethalflife.gamespy.com/show_rss.php
http://planetquake.gamespy.com/show_rss.php
If you're a fan of any of these, you may want to check these out.
Enyal
Here are some new RSS feeds for several popular computer games...
http://planetelderscrolls.gamespy.com/show_rss.php
http://planethalflife.gamespy.com/show_rss.php
http://planetquake.gamespy.com/show_rss.php
If you're a fan of any of these, you may want to check these out.
Enyal
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Browserpalooza
Hey All!
This week's topic concerns the internet browser - your tool to surfing the web! With this, you can explore web pages and newssites to your heart's (and mind's) content. Specifically, the question that we are concerned with is what type of browsers are the dominant amongst users; which is the most preferred out of the whole lot?
It is easy to say that Microsoft's Internet Explorer is a clear contender for the users attention, with its clear rival being Mozilla Firefox; however, other alternatives exist in the form of Netscape Navigator and Safari. These four browsers show good stability and workmanship, being able to dominate the market. However, as shown in the below statistics, Explorer seems to have laid claim to users attention for now.( http://www.thecounter.com/stats/2007/September/browser.php )
Enyal
This week's topic concerns the internet browser - your tool to surfing the web! With this, you can explore web pages and newssites to your heart's (and mind's) content. Specifically, the question that we are concerned with is what type of browsers are the dominant amongst users; which is the most preferred out of the whole lot?
It is easy to say that Microsoft's Internet Explorer is a clear contender for the users attention, with its clear rival being Mozilla Firefox; however, other alternatives exist in the form of Netscape Navigator and Safari. These four browsers show good stability and workmanship, being able to dominate the market. However, as shown in the below statistics, Explorer seems to have laid claim to users attention for now.( http://www.thecounter.com/stats/2007/September/browser.php )
Enyal
Sunday, November 4, 2007
Lines of Defense
Good Day, All!
Now, I present to you the lesson of firewall and protection programs, specifically Windows Firewall and Defender.
According to the official Microsoft site, Firewall acts as a shield for the user's computer; when an individual or network attempts to connect to the user's computer, Firewall blocks the connection. It will also keep blocking specific attempts until otherwise configured by the user. In essence, this basically allows you to surf with a minimum of outside interference.
Defender also bolsters your defense by adding protection from pop-up ads and spyware that can try to download itself from the computer. The latest version can be currently downloaded from the Microsoft downloads page. There is no fee to use the program, as it is freeware.
However, just these two programs alone are not enough to stop all malignant incursion from outside sources; a user should also bolster their defenses with additional programs such as CCleaner and AVGantivrus. Both programs are capable to clean a system of the buildup that occurs from continual internet use, which can cause slowdown of a system.
Enyal
Now, I present to you the lesson of firewall and protection programs, specifically Windows Firewall and Defender.
According to the official Microsoft site, Firewall acts as a shield for the user's computer; when an individual or network attempts to connect to the user's computer, Firewall blocks the connection. It will also keep blocking specific attempts until otherwise configured by the user. In essence, this basically allows you to surf with a minimum of outside interference.
Defender also bolsters your defense by adding protection from pop-up ads and spyware that can try to download itself from the computer. The latest version can be currently downloaded from the Microsoft downloads page. There is no fee to use the program, as it is freeware.
However, just these two programs alone are not enough to stop all malignant incursion from outside sources; a user should also bolster their defenses with additional programs such as CCleaner and AVGantivrus. Both programs are capable to clean a system of the buildup that occurs from continual internet use, which can cause slowdown of a system.
Enyal
Thursday, November 1, 2007
All the right connections...
G'Day All!
With this entry, we examine the question of internet connections; Is it adequate to what you need? For this question, the answer lies in the practicality of your situation. That is to say, only take what you need to operate.
For example, if you live in a house with multiple computers, you wouldn't need a network model suited for a big company; just go with a personal network system between your few computers. Likewise, if you are running a company, you want to buy a network with enough size to fit your needs.
To conclude this lesson, I give what I use: a private internet connection that we run between 4 desktops and three laptops.
Enyal
With this entry, we examine the question of internet connections; Is it adequate to what you need? For this question, the answer lies in the practicality of your situation. That is to say, only take what you need to operate.
For example, if you live in a house with multiple computers, you wouldn't need a network model suited for a big company; just go with a personal network system between your few computers. Likewise, if you are running a company, you want to buy a network with enough size to fit your needs.
To conclude this lesson, I give what I use: a private internet connection that we run between 4 desktops and three laptops.
Enyal
Friday, October 26, 2007
Stacked Codecs...
Bonjour, All!
With this entry, we'll discuss the topic of codecs and their possible uses. A codec, according to Microsoft.com, is a media software to which allows the user to compress or decompress digital media like songs and videos. Via compression, these madia types can easily be stored on your computer and easily transferred across the internet more smoothly. A good example is Windows Media Player, which downloads and decompresses songs and video that one finds as they browse the internet.
However, Codecs can be something of a double-edged sword, as the media does slightly downgrade in quality when compared to the original source. However, when quality is not an issue, codecs are the right tool for the job.
With this entry, we'll discuss the topic of codecs and their possible uses. A codec, according to Microsoft.com, is a media software to which allows the user to compress or decompress digital media like songs and videos. Via compression, these madia types can easily be stored on your computer and easily transferred across the internet more smoothly. A good example is Windows Media Player, which downloads and decompresses songs and video that one finds as they browse the internet.
However, Codecs can be something of a double-edged sword, as the media does slightly downgrade in quality when compared to the original source. However, when quality is not an issue, codecs are the right tool for the job.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
RSS Feeds
Hey All!
Just found a unique way to subscribe to different web site and keep updated on their latest changes: via the use of Bloglines, one can view a site without the oft annoyance of advertisements.
However, one does sacrifice a few things for this ease of service; the user only recieves a barebones version of the site, sacrificing looks for pure info. However, despite this shortcoming, Bloglines is a nice tool to use for when I need info as to the latest happenings fast.
Enyal
Just found a unique way to subscribe to different web site and keep updated on their latest changes: via the use of Bloglines, one can view a site without the oft annoyance of advertisements.
However, one does sacrifice a few things for this ease of service; the user only recieves a barebones version of the site, sacrificing looks for pure info. However, despite this shortcoming, Bloglines is a nice tool to use for when I need info as to the latest happenings fast.
Enyal
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Del.icio.us "Flick'r"-ings...
Aloha All!
I've found out how to use both Flick'r and del.icio.us as social software since the last entry. Both have their applications in sharing links and photos with people, but it depends on what your hobbies run toward as to whether you'll use them both or not.
Flick'r is a photo archive that allows people to upload pictures that they have taken around the world; quite a vast community is in place for all the shutterbugs out there, but I'm not much for being a lensman - kinda shy.
Del.icio.us is a internat tagging tool that allow you to maintain an index of bookmarks and find other people with similiar interests. This is a very useful feature, since the amount of tags and sites allow you to view quite a few places of interest on the web. I'll keep using this for sure - it makes a handy reference for similar sites I may need to search for.
Enyal
I've found out how to use both Flick'r and del.icio.us as social software since the last entry. Both have their applications in sharing links and photos with people, but it depends on what your hobbies run toward as to whether you'll use them both or not.
Flick'r is a photo archive that allows people to upload pictures that they have taken around the world; quite a vast community is in place for all the shutterbugs out there, but I'm not much for being a lensman - kinda shy.
Del.icio.us is a internat tagging tool that allow you to maintain an index of bookmarks and find other people with similiar interests. This is a very useful feature, since the amount of tags and sites allow you to view quite a few places of interest on the web. I'll keep using this for sure - it makes a handy reference for similar sites I may need to search for.
Enyal
Friday, October 19, 2007
Colder Folders?
Hi all!
Just wanted you to check out my new folder - customized it myself.
By the way...
Has anyone else had trouble getting Vista to encrypt files? I try checkmarking the appropriate box in settings, but it is just greyed out and inselectable. Any ideas?
Enyal
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Registry Revue
Hello All!
Today, we examine the Windows Registry, a internal record of the programs and internal processes that all versions of Windows from 95 edition onwards have implemented in operations. Not only can the user not only browse and see how the computer records programs and their actions, a user can also alter values and settings in order to manually adjust Windows to their liking. This is also a useful tool for any programmer who wishes to fix errors in said registry.
If you couldn't tell, this is a big honkin' warning.
DO NOT ALTER WINDOWS VALUES WITHOUT PROPER KNOWLEDGE! Chances are that alteration will result in a computer enviroment slightly less stable than a heavily caffienated squirrel.
To be on the safe side, read all you can on the registry before you begin any changes. Here is one good site:
http://freepctech.com/pc/002/Windows_registry_faq.shtml
Enyal
Today, we examine the Windows Registry, a internal record of the programs and internal processes that all versions of Windows from 95 edition onwards have implemented in operations. Not only can the user not only browse and see how the computer records programs and their actions, a user can also alter values and settings in order to manually adjust Windows to their liking. This is also a useful tool for any programmer who wishes to fix errors in said registry.
If you couldn't tell, this is a big honkin' warning.
DO NOT ALTER WINDOWS VALUES WITHOUT PROPER KNOWLEDGE! Chances are that alteration will result in a computer enviroment slightly less stable than a heavily caffienated squirrel.
To be on the safe side, read all you can on the registry before you begin any changes. Here is one good site:
http://freepctech.com/pc/002/Windows_registry_faq.shtml
Enyal
Friday, October 12, 2007
Tricky Wiki
Salutations!
Recently, I got involved in the works of Wikipedia; I have to say that this is one way that the collective consciousness of the world around us can be archived. In the right hands, it can be a repository for archived knowledge and an excellent source of learning; however, steps must be taken by each individual to ensure that no erroneous information is entered, for even the slightest mistake on one's information can have consequences for the recipient of such flawed knowledge. Even though this is my first real time ever doing this, I could discern this was an important tenet to follow.
Enyal
Recently, I got involved in the works of Wikipedia; I have to say that this is one way that the collective consciousness of the world around us can be archived. In the right hands, it can be a repository for archived knowledge and an excellent source of learning; however, steps must be taken by each individual to ensure that no erroneous information is entered, for even the slightest mistake on one's information can have consequences for the recipient of such flawed knowledge. Even though this is my first real time ever doing this, I could discern this was an important tenet to follow.
Enyal
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Flaming Clocks and other things...
Greetings!
For those out there who are interested in screensavers, I found just the place for those looking for a new view:
http://home.clara.net/lilli/savers.htm
They have quite a collection there: I found myself a good flaming clock screensaver for my laptop, come with realistic flame trails. See what you can find! There's sure to be something for everyone there.
Enyal
For those out there who are interested in screensavers, I found just the place for those looking for a new view:
http://home.clara.net/lilli/savers.htm
They have quite a collection there: I found myself a good flaming clock screensaver for my laptop, come with realistic flame trails. See what you can find! There's sure to be something for everyone there.
Enyal
Friday, October 5, 2007
Blog Review (1 of ?)
Welcome!
This shall be the first of my blog reviews! I find good things on the internet and recommend them to people - now I shall go even further and tell them EXACTLY what is so good about these sites that I mentioned in an earlier blog.
http://adventure-quest-rpg.blogspot.com/
This blog is quite good, give professional reviews and criticisms on both games and the controversy that surrounds (or doesn't surround) them. His way of giving unflinching honesty and biting criticism immediately drew me toward reading his articles - of which he is immensely prolific, seeing the size of his archived posts. An interesting pet peeve for this guy is horrible game-to-movie adaptions; especially Super Mario Bros. Need I say more?
http://www.doomworld.com/
Ah, DOOM. The game that many gamers remember with possibly a tear of nostalgia in their eye, for this was the game that truly defined the first-person genre back then. It also opened up the beginnings of user made mods via the use of custom-made WAD files, allowing users to create their own worlds and scenarios with the DOOM engine. This site keeps a close eye on the modding side of DOOM, as well as keeping watch on any new developments in the series. Boasts a very good layout for users to find what they want, and their articles are very informative when choosing the right mod for yourself.
http://legosdream.wordpress.com/
Alright, it has nothing to do with LEGO toys exactly, but where else will you find the heartwarming accounts and reminiscings of a person whose toys in her younger years still hold a place in her memory, whereas many have left their childhood behind. This is no curse or weakness, for it seems to give this woman an appreciation for everyday life that many seem to lose as time wears on. Her articles bring forth nostalgia of your own childhood, causing you to stay and remember along with her, wondering how you ever forgot something so simple and yet wondrous as a fleeting remembrance of things past.
This shall be the first of my blog reviews! I find good things on the internet and recommend them to people - now I shall go even further and tell them EXACTLY what is so good about these sites that I mentioned in an earlier blog.
http://adventure-quest-rpg.blogspot.com/
This blog is quite good, give professional reviews and criticisms on both games and the controversy that surrounds (or doesn't surround) them. His way of giving unflinching honesty and biting criticism immediately drew me toward reading his articles - of which he is immensely prolific, seeing the size of his archived posts. An interesting pet peeve for this guy is horrible game-to-movie adaptions; especially Super Mario Bros. Need I say more?
http://www.doomworld.com/
Ah, DOOM. The game that many gamers remember with possibly a tear of nostalgia in their eye, for this was the game that truly defined the first-person genre back then. It also opened up the beginnings of user made mods via the use of custom-made WAD files, allowing users to create their own worlds and scenarios with the DOOM engine. This site keeps a close eye on the modding side of DOOM, as well as keeping watch on any new developments in the series. Boasts a very good layout for users to find what they want, and their articles are very informative when choosing the right mod for yourself.
http://legosdream.wordpress.com/
Alright, it has nothing to do with LEGO toys exactly, but where else will you find the heartwarming accounts and reminiscings of a person whose toys in her younger years still hold a place in her memory, whereas many have left their childhood behind. This is no curse or weakness, for it seems to give this woman an appreciation for everyday life that many seem to lose as time wears on. Her articles bring forth nostalgia of your own childhood, causing you to stay and remember along with her, wondering how you ever forgot something so simple and yet wondrous as a fleeting remembrance of things past.
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Blogging: Form of Reporting?
Hello all!
Here's an interesting question that I just came across: Are bloggers a form of reporter? Do we, as we write about everyday events in our blogs. actually create a consciousness of the world around in much the same way as the television reporter? My answer to this, fellow readers and bloggites, is that this is a correct assumption.
As a blogger, one has the opportunity to voice opinions on the happenings that occur on both the real world and on the net; however, bloggers have the advantage of being able to voice their full, honest opinions about an issue, and are not under space or time constraints in order to do it. They can also have a wider set of options that they can choose from for subject matter. One might say that they are the next generation of reporting!
Now, I know that some may be thinking that this necessarily means they can go all hog wild with what they want; but think for a moment. What you put up will be read by many people, and it is the responsibility of the blogger to keep his little corner of the web a neat and tidy place.
Here's an interesting question that I just came across: Are bloggers a form of reporter? Do we, as we write about everyday events in our blogs. actually create a consciousness of the world around in much the same way as the television reporter? My answer to this, fellow readers and bloggites, is that this is a correct assumption.
As a blogger, one has the opportunity to voice opinions on the happenings that occur on both the real world and on the net; however, bloggers have the advantage of being able to voice their full, honest opinions about an issue, and are not under space or time constraints in order to do it. They can also have a wider set of options that they can choose from for subject matter. One might say that they are the next generation of reporting!
Now, I know that some may be thinking that this necessarily means they can go all hog wild with what they want; but think for a moment. What you put up will be read by many people, and it is the responsibility of the blogger to keep his little corner of the web a neat and tidy place.
Saturday, September 29, 2007
A Few Favorite Blogs
Hello All!
Today, I have found a few blogs that I have an interest in. Just thought I'd go ahead and share some woth you. Who knows maybe you'll see something you'll like...
http://adventure-quest-rpg.blogspot.com/
A Blog maintained by a veteran gamer, he really goes in-depth with his opinions and criticism on games in today's society.
http://www.doomworld.com/
Years ago, DOOM was a gaming phenomenon, bringing the first real attention to the possibilities that the genre of first-person shooter. Now, It is just as popular, leading many sites (or blog, in this case) to keep up with new development with the series. This Blog, in particular, is a good source for all things DOOM, with more features than you could shake a boomstick at.
http://legosdream.wordpress.com/
This Blog is quite unique; rather than being assumedly focused on LEGOS, this online diary catalogues the continuing life of a LEGO fan, with both present happenings and heartfelt rememberances. It seems to inspire a sense of nostalgia when read.
Enyal
Today, I have found a few blogs that I have an interest in. Just thought I'd go ahead and share some woth you. Who knows maybe you'll see something you'll like...
http://adventure-quest-rpg.blogspot.com/
A Blog maintained by a veteran gamer, he really goes in-depth with his opinions and criticism on games in today's society.
http://www.doomworld.com/
Years ago, DOOM was a gaming phenomenon, bringing the first real attention to the possibilities that the genre of first-person shooter. Now, It is just as popular, leading many sites (or blog, in this case) to keep up with new development with the series. This Blog, in particular, is a good source for all things DOOM, with more features than you could shake a boomstick at.
http://legosdream.wordpress.com/
This Blog is quite unique; rather than being assumedly focused on LEGOS, this online diary catalogues the continuing life of a LEGO fan, with both present happenings and heartfelt rememberances. It seems to inspire a sense of nostalgia when read.
Enyal
Monday, September 24, 2007
Hello, CIOS F275 class!
Hello all!
Since a little background is in order, my name is Enyal.
I've been a student at UAF for a few years now, interested mainly in an English degree; after attaining that, I think I'll go for Computer Engineering. I've had a few computer courses up there, mainly Java and computer history.The reason this class interests me is that web communication is one of the major fixtures in today's modern society. In order to take advantage of this increasing trend, we must have the right knowledge with which to work with.
Since a little background is in order, my name is Enyal.
I've been a student at UAF for a few years now, interested mainly in an English degree; after attaining that, I think I'll go for Computer Engineering. I've had a few computer courses up there, mainly Java and computer history.The reason this class interests me is that web communication is one of the major fixtures in today's modern society. In order to take advantage of this increasing trend, we must have the right knowledge with which to work with.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Control Panel Contemplations
Hello!
Today's post is all about the control panel, the interface within windows which allows you to configure the various settings and behaviors in programs and hardware. It also proves quite useful in removing programs, in order to free space on the hard drive.
Of special interest is the dreagmentation utility, which organizes you hard drive to allow faster performance; if your computers lagging, that what you need to run.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Go (MSCon)fig...
Hello all!
Ever wonder why some computer are faster at loading the desktop interface than others?
Processor speed can have a positive effect, but the real question is this: what programs do you have initiate at startup.
By using the msconfig utility, one can set what preferred programs they would prefer to have initiated at start-up - fewer selected programs, less time to boot up. As my computer came with the bare essentials when I got it, there was very little to actually adjust - nothing, in fact.
Although I may not be changing the settings, it still is valuable to know; as one adds programs to the computer, one will probably find reason to use this utility.
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Safety Second! (Seriously)
Hello to you all!
While reading my Master Visually: Microsoft Windows Vista, I happened to find a useful tidbit that may be useful to those having problems during driver upgrades or hardware tweaking; specifically, it concerns the safe modes in Vista. When configuring anything, mistakes can occur, leaving you at times when your computer will not even load Vista.
However, Vista has stripped-down, backup versions which allow the user to troubleshoot the problem that they face. In total, there are five different versions that can be used, depending on the problem.
In normal Safe Mode, Vista will restart with minimal services; afterwards, the user can add services until he is able to determine which service misbehaves.
In Safe Mode with Networking, network capability and Active Directory connectivity is added to the normal configuration - possibly to test whether the network is to blame for the error.
Safe Mode with Command Prompt restarts Windows to a command prompt - possibly so the user can see if file association and command lines are correct within the system.
VGA Mode allows the user to run Windows with a generic graphics driver, which uses 640x480x16 color display; this is useful to check if the normal graphics driver is to blame.
Finally, if all else fails, one can use the Last Known Good Configuration- a Safe Mode which restores the last mix of drivers that allowed the user to get to the Windows desktop. It may not be the best working copy of Windows, but the user can do something with it if the previous methods failed.
While reading my Master Visually: Microsoft Windows Vista, I happened to find a useful tidbit that may be useful to those having problems during driver upgrades or hardware tweaking; specifically, it concerns the safe modes in Vista. When configuring anything, mistakes can occur, leaving you at times when your computer will not even load Vista.
However, Vista has stripped-down, backup versions which allow the user to troubleshoot the problem that they face. In total, there are five different versions that can be used, depending on the problem.
In normal Safe Mode, Vista will restart with minimal services; afterwards, the user can add services until he is able to determine which service misbehaves.
In Safe Mode with Networking, network capability and Active Directory connectivity is added to the normal configuration - possibly to test whether the network is to blame for the error.
Safe Mode with Command Prompt restarts Windows to a command prompt - possibly so the user can see if file association and command lines are correct within the system.
VGA Mode allows the user to run Windows with a generic graphics driver, which uses 640x480x16 color display; this is useful to check if the normal graphics driver is to blame.
Finally, if all else fails, one can use the Last Known Good Configuration- a Safe Mode which restores the last mix of drivers that allowed the user to get to the Windows desktop. It may not be the best working copy of Windows, but the user can do something with it if the previous methods failed.
Friday, September 14, 2007
A Brave New World...
Hello all!
It is now official. My laptop is ready for Vista!
Early on, I got this computer not only as an aid to my studies, but also as a test case for Vista. Now, after several weeks with no errors and great stability, my computer can truly be ready for Vista.
It is now official. My laptop is ready for Vista!
Early on, I got this computer not only as an aid to my studies, but also as a test case for Vista. Now, after several weeks with no errors and great stability, my computer can truly be ready for Vista.
I used the New Installation method (loading the program into a completely blank computer) and was amazed at the ease of use; not only did it install without a hitch, but it also ran perfectly afterwards.
Currently, the hardware environment that it runs under is a 32-bit operating system with Vista compatible hardware. So far, this has been a very dependable VAIO laptop.
Window panes: my history with computers
Hello all!
Looking at my first post, I realized that I left out a bit of background history. Time to fix this - specifically the part about my experience with operating systems.
Although I may be relatively new to Vista, I can't help but notice similarities to earlier incarnations of Windows. In fact, despite being touted as a system that was built from the ground up, there are enough reminders so that anyone may install and run this without being daunted by its appearence.
For me, most of the comfort comes from the feel of how Vista is set up: it comes with the bare essentials, practical applications which help you accomplish just about any type of work that comes your way - somewhat like the old days of Windows 3.1.
It is also helpful to have spent time familiarizing myself with the various operations and accessories Vista offers; I recieved a Vista textbook ahead of schedule, and was able to study enough to be ready when class started. Not only that I was lucky enough to have bought a laptop for just the purpose of running Vista on a test computer, in order to check for problems and gauge its stability. So far, everything has gone quite smoothly.
In short my advice to all is this: Vista may be daunting at first to some of you, but enough experimenting and reading on it produces an understanding which will be useful in all your experiences concerning this newer, sleeker Windows.
Looking at my first post, I realized that I left out a bit of background history. Time to fix this - specifically the part about my experience with operating systems.
Although I may be relatively new to Vista, I can't help but notice similarities to earlier incarnations of Windows. In fact, despite being touted as a system that was built from the ground up, there are enough reminders so that anyone may install and run this without being daunted by its appearence.
For me, most of the comfort comes from the feel of how Vista is set up: it comes with the bare essentials, practical applications which help you accomplish just about any type of work that comes your way - somewhat like the old days of Windows 3.1.
It is also helpful to have spent time familiarizing myself with the various operations and accessories Vista offers; I recieved a Vista textbook ahead of schedule, and was able to study enough to be ready when class started. Not only that I was lucky enough to have bought a laptop for just the purpose of running Vista on a test computer, in order to check for problems and gauge its stability. So far, everything has gone quite smoothly.
In short my advice to all is this: Vista may be daunting at first to some of you, but enough experimenting and reading on it produces an understanding which will be useful in all your experiences concerning this newer, sleeker Windows.
Friday, September 7, 2007
Salutations
To all who read this;
Hello, my name is Enyal. I shall be using this blogspace as a means to track my progress in learning Windows Vista; considering that this Microsoft operating system was built from the ground up for much different reasons as, say, its predecessors, the very beginning of this class may prove to be a rocky start.
What attracted me to this class was the need to understand the direction that technology was moving in regards to the home computer: if Vista was to be the next big step in operating systems, it would be wise to begin learning of the capabilities and limits of such a program. At this point, I may be relatively unfamiliar with Vista's inner workings; however, with enough study and practice with course materials and texts, I should be able to refine my inexperience into knowledge concerning the intricate working of this operating system.
That does not necessarily mean I haven't had prior experience with computers; not only have I had previous UAF courses in C+ and Computer History, I also possess a small understanding of HTML functions and web page coding. With this prior knowledge, I hope I may be successful in my endeavors concerning this class.
Hello, my name is Enyal. I shall be using this blogspace as a means to track my progress in learning Windows Vista; considering that this Microsoft operating system was built from the ground up for much different reasons as, say, its predecessors, the very beginning of this class may prove to be a rocky start.
What attracted me to this class was the need to understand the direction that technology was moving in regards to the home computer: if Vista was to be the next big step in operating systems, it would be wise to begin learning of the capabilities and limits of such a program. At this point, I may be relatively unfamiliar with Vista's inner workings; however, with enough study and practice with course materials and texts, I should be able to refine my inexperience into knowledge concerning the intricate working of this operating system.
That does not necessarily mean I haven't had prior experience with computers; not only have I had previous UAF courses in C+ and Computer History, I also possess a small understanding of HTML functions and web page coding. With this prior knowledge, I hope I may be successful in my endeavors concerning this class.
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