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Windows XP : Remove Hidden Windows Components - System Optional Components Manager How I unhide and remove hidden windows components from Windows XP. ___________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* ___________________________ * Requires Administrator Privileges * The "Sysoc.inf" file is an information file that controls what Optional Components are available in the Add\Remove Windows Components menu. This allows for the addition or removal of Windows Components. Some may wish to add\remove components for security reasons, for restriction reasons or just to reduce the overhead of their computer. (click) the Start Button - Control Panel - Add or Remove Programs - Add/Remove Windows Components, now it's possible to see the windows components available normally for adding or removing. There are hidden windows components. In order to reveal these components it's necessary to edit the "sysoc.inf" file. (right-click) Start Button - Explore - "C:\Windows\Inf\sysoc.inf". To edit it: (right-click) "sysoc.inf" - Open - highlight & copy the word "Hide" - Replace - (right-click & paste) "hide" in the "Find What" box - leave the "Replace With" box empty - Replace All - Save & Close the file. Now, Hidden Windows Components will be available for removal or installation. Be very careful about the components chosen for change. If you don't know what something is, find out before making a change or leave it alone. With hidden options available you can remove things like Hyper Terminal, Pinball, Windows Messenger, Chat, Wordpad and others. A few components are not able to be removed like COM+, Distributed Transaction Coordinator, Microsoft Fax and Windows Media Player these are core components. The System Optional Components Manager is accessible through the Command Prompt. The command is: "sysocmgr /i:sysoc.inf" an alternative command is "sysocmgr /i:%windir%\inf\sysoc.inf". There are several switches\arguments that can be used along with this command. These switches will appear if the required "/i:" is not used. ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://www.tkcomputerservice.com/windows-xp-sysoc-inf.htm

Windows XP : Rebuilding the Layout.ini File A How-to on rebuilding the Layout.ini file in Windows XP. ___________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* ___________________________ * Requires Administrator Privileges * The "Layout.ini" file is a stored list of system programs and files accessed during boot. It, also, contains a list of the most commonly used programs. This allows Windows and Applications to start more quickly. Sometimes, When a Service Pack is installed the layout.ini file fails to rebuild. Even under normal operation the layout.ini file can take up to 72 hours to rebuild. This will impact performance. I like to make sure the layout.ini has been rebuilt before applying any other Service Packs or Updates and I don't want to wait for the OS to do it. The layout.ini file is located in the "C:\Windows\Prefetch" folder. (right-click) Start Button - Explore - "C:\Windows\Prefetch\layout.ini". To manually rebuild it: (click) the Start Button - Run - type-in the following command, "Rundll32.exe Advapi32.dll, ProcessIdleTasks" - OK. Check the "C:\Windows\Prefetch" folder and make sure the file has been rebuilt. An alternative command is: "%windir%\system32\Rundll32.exe Advapi32.dll, ProcessIdleTasks". It is possible to manually defrag the prefetch files. (click) the Start Button - Run - type-in the following command, "Defrag %systemdrive% -b" - OK. ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://www.tkcomputerservice.com/windows-xp-rebuild-layout-ini.htm

Windows XP : Setting Up the Pagefile (Swap File) (Virtual Memory) A How-to on various settings and information concerning the Windows Pagefile. (Swap File) (Virtual Memory) ___________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* ___________________________ *Requires Administrator Privileges * *Warning* - Before you make any changes to the Windows XP Registry, make sure you have a backup of all your files and the Registry itself. Understand, making a mistake in the Registry can render your computer unusable or unstable. The Windows XP pagefile is the subject of much debate and has many views, by various gurus, on how to best implement it's use. I will try to give you a "middle of the road" plan of action on making use of the pagefile. Also known as the swap file or virtual memory. There are three different ways to setup the pagefile in Windows XP. These ways are as System Managed, Static and Dynamic. A Static pagefile is one in which the minimum and maximum values are the same. The main attribute of this type of pagefile is the computer doesn't have to waste CPU cycles resizing the pagefile. It is, also, less likely to become fragmented. This under certain circumstances can improve overall computer performance. A Dynamic pagefile is one in which the minimum and maximum values are different, but user set. This type can, also, have benefits depending on your computer hardware and setup. An example of this would be the availability of more than one hard drive. A System Managed pagefile is one in which Windows XP automatically manages the size of the pagefile. It is a dynamically allocated pagefile, but it's maximum value is only dictated by the maximum allowed size of 4095 MB or 4 GB. This type of pagefile will grow and shrink as needed. Which is best for me? Well, that is the question, isn't it? I cannot give you a definitive answer to that question, because I do not know what hardware you have or what your daily use case is. Rules: 1. Never make your pagefile unduly large. This will only waste hard drive space and odds are the extra pagefile space allocated will never even be used. You can use the Task Manager (as shown in the video above) to get an idea of the pagefile usage. This can help you decide on the maximum value of the pagefile, if you choose to assign one manually. 2. Do not make a separate partition to house your pagefile, only. With a 4200 rpm hard drive this could give you a performance boost. With hard drives becoming much faster, the time it takes the drive's read-head to navigate to the separate partition negates any performance gain. The only time this would make sense is if you are dual-booting Windows XP and Windows 98. Then you can use one pagefile for both Operating Systems. You will need to make sure the partition is FAT32, which is readable by both operating systems and that the pagefile is static. But, with the increase in hard drive sizes, this too becomes obsolete. If you are concerned about fragmentation there are plenty of programs available to defrag your pagefile. 3. Never rely on your pagefile as a substitute for RAM. If you notice pagefile being heavily used, it's a good indication you need to upgrade your RAM. 4. Never put your pagefile on a network or removable drive. 5. Once every 30 days it is good to clear your pagefile on shutdown. (as shown in the video above) ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://www.tkcomputerservice.com/windows-xp-pagefile.htm

Window XP : System File Checker Tool - sfc.exe A How-to on using the Windows File Checker (aka System File Checker) Tool, System File Checker Command-Line and make a shortcut with the "/scannow" switch. ___________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* ___________________________ * Requires Administrator Privileges * The System File Checker tool, "scans all protected system files" and compares them against a cache of the original file. If a corrupt file is found, it is over-written with the cached version. reference ...(MS System File Checker) Corrupt system files can be caused by several things, including viruses. I always run SFC after a new install of Windows to insure a proper installation. It's necessary to be running as an Administrator and have the OS Disc in the CD\DVD drive. If you don't have an OS Disc, SFC may read the needed files from a recovery partition. The System File Checker can be invoked by (clicking) the Start Button - Run - type-in the following command, "sfc /scannow" - OK. The System File Checker tool is, also, accessible from Command Prompt. (click) the Start Button - All Programs - Accessories - Command Prompt. Type-in the following command, "sfc /?", this will show all available switches and a description for each one. This is how I make a shortcut to the System File Checker. I find it useful to keep on a thumb-drive and move from machine to machine. Mostly, It comes in handy if you don't want to remember the command. :) To make the shortcut, (right-click) an empty area on the desktop - New - Shortcut - type-in the following command, "%windir%\system32\sfc.exe /scannow" - Next - Name the Shortcut - Finish. To change the icon, (right-click) Shortcut - Properties - Change Icon - type in the following command, "%SystemRoot%\system32\shell32.dll" and press "Enter" - Select an Icon - OK all the way back to the desktop. ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://www.tkcomputerservice.com/windows-xp-sfc-system-file-checker.htm

Windows XP : Microsoft Malicious Software Removal Tool - mrt.exe How I use and make a desktop shortcut to the MS Malicious Software Removal Tool. ___________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* ___________________________ Microsoft has a built-in malicious software removal tool that is updated through Windows Update. Run it by pressing the Start button - Run and typing in "MRT", then press the enter key or the OK button. I highly suggest you choose to do a full scan. This tool will automatically run after it is updated, but it only runs a quick scan at that time. You can, also, make a desktop shortcut to this tool to make it easier to access and to help remind you to use it. To do that follow the instructions in the video above. The target for the shortcut is "C:\Windows\System32\MRT.exe" or "%windir%\System32\MRT.exe" either one will work, choose the later if your copy of Windows XP isn't installed on the C:\ drive. You can name it anything you like, I name it "MS Malicious Software Removal Tool". ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://www.tkcomputerservice.com/windows-xp-mrt-malicious-software-removal.htm

Windows XP : Disable File Indexing - Indexing Service A How-to on disabling File Indexing in Windows XP. ___________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* ___________________________ *Administrator Privileges Required* The Indexing Service indexes the content and properties of files on the Hard Drive. This allows for faster searching and file content searching. Most Users will not need this and it takes-up valuable computer resources. To turn-off file indexing: Start Button - My Computer - (right-click) a Hard Drive - (select) Properties - (deselect) Allow Indexing Service to index... - Apply - OK. Some files properties can't be changed. Just select "Ignore All" when prompted that some file properties were unable to be changed. Repeat the process for all Hard Drives that don't need to be Indexed. To disable File Indexing completely, the Indexing Service must be set-to "Disabled". Start Button - Control Panel - Administrative Tools - Services - (right-click) Indexing Service - Properties - (startup type:) Disabled - Apply - OK. To finish, the File Indices that File Indexing built must be deleted. This will reclaim the Hard Drive space used by the Indexing Service. Start Button - All Programs - Accessories - System Tools - Disk Cleanup - (select) Drive to cleanup - OK. Look at the other selections and make sure nothing important will be deleted. Make sure the "Catalog files for the Content Indexer" is selected - OK. Repeat the process for all Hard Drives that had File Indexing disabled. ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://tkcomputerservice.com/windows-xp-disable-file-indexing.htm

Windows XP : Desktop Toolbar with an Icon-less Desktop A How to on setting-up Windows XP to have an Icon-less Desktop and still be able to access all desktop shortcuts through the Desktop Toolbar. ----------------------------------- *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* ----------------------------------- * Ensure the Task Bar is unlocked * I like a clean desktop, but, I really like being able to get to my programs without going to the Start Menu. So, I use the Desktop Toolbar and then hide the icons on the desktop. Boom! Got cake and eatin' it too. (right-click) an empty area of the Task Bar - Toolbars - Desktop. Now, the Desktop Toolbar will appear in the Task Bar. (right-click and hold) the Desktop Toolbar and drag it to the top, left or right side of the screen. It can, also, be expanded in the Task Bar. The Desktop Toolbar has several options, access these by right-clicking an empty area of the toolbar itself. To hide the icons on the desktop, (right-click) an empty area of the Desktop - Arrange Icons By - (uncheck) Show Desktop Icons. ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://www.tkcomputerservice.com/windows-xp-desktop-toolbar.htm

Windows XP : Defragmentation Tool - defrag.exe A How-to on using the Windows XP Defragmentation Tool, the Command-Line Defragmentation Tool, Setup a Scheduled Defrag and Save Scheduled Tasks. ___________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* ___________________________ The fragmentation of data on a hard drive occurs naturally over time. Installing new software or hardware is one way this can happen. Editing photos, movies or music, which tend to be large in size, can also cause fragmentation. Any time I install a service pack, I always defragment the drive, before and after the installation. It is always a good idea to delete any unnecessary files before defragmenting. I run Disk Cleanup and CCleaner to quickly remove hidden temp and log files. The first time I defragment a drive, I remove the pagefile first. The pagefile is unmovable and can get placed between blocks of data. If the pagefile dynamically sizes itself, that will cause fragmentation. The video shows how I turn the pagefile off and back on. To defragment a drive: Start Button - My Computer - (right-click the desired Drive) Properties. Tools Tab - Defragment Now Button - Select Drive - Defragment Button. I, also, show how I use the defrag command and setup a scheduled task. ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://www.tkcomputerservice.com/windows-xp-hard-drive-defrag.htm

Windows XP : Create a shortcut to lockdown the desktop A How-to on creating a shortcut to quickly lock-down the desktop in Windows XP. ___________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* ___________________________ This is how I make a shortcut to quickly lockdown the desktop. I find it useful if I'm suddenly called away and want to make sure things are just as I had left them. The keyboard combination of "WinKey + L" will accomplish the same thing. To make the shortcut, (right-click) an empty area on the desktop - New - Shortcut - type in the following command, "%windir%\system32\rundll32.exe user32.dll, LockWorkStation" - Next - Name the Shortcut - Finish. To change the icon, (right-click) Shortcut - Properties - Change Icon - type in the following command, "%SystemRoot%\system32\shell32.dll" and press "Enter" - Select an Icon - OK all the way back to the desktop. I starting using this shortcut, not because of privacy concerns, but because my cat walked across my keyboard and killed several hours of work. Something to think about if there are kids or animals around the computer while work is being done. ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://www.tkcomputerservice.com/windows-xp-lockdown-shortcut.htm

Windows XP : Computer Software & Hardware Audit A couple of my favorite programs for finding product keys, hardware, software and other misc. settings. These programs are very useful when upgrading, reinstalling Windows or trouble shooting network settings. ___________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* ___________________________ The two programs I'm highlighting here, are Belarc Adviser and Piriform's Speccy. Both programs are free. I have used both programs for years and have found them impossible to be without. When I upgrade anything, I have to know exactly what hardware or Software I'm dealing with. Such things as knowing firmware versions and product keys can make the difference between smooth upgrades and unmitigated nightmares. I use both programs to record as much information about a computer as possible before re-installing the operating system. It is always a good idea to get all updates, both firmware and software, from a clean computer, before re-installing. ___________________________ Belarc Advisor, can be downloaded at https://www.belarc.com/products_belarc_advisor Speccy, can be downloaded at https://www.piriform.com/speccy/download ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://www.tkcomputerservice.com/windows-xp-audit.htm

Windows XP : Changing the Desktop Background - Wallpaper A How-to on changing the desktop background in Windows XP. ___________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* ___________________________ To change the desktop background, (right-click) an empty area of the Desktop - select Properties. The Display Properties dialog box will appear - select the Display Tab. Here you'll be able to change the Background (Wallpaper), the manner in which it's displayed (Stretched, Centered or Tiled) and the Background Color itself. Use the Browse Button to select any picture on the computer as the Wallpaper. You can (right-click) picture files in the "My Pictures" folder and select "set as Desktop Wallpaper". If you want to download a file to use from a website or a camera, make sure to scan it before use. If a picture is moved to the "C:\Windows\Web\Wallpaper" folder, it will then show-up as a choice in the Display Tab. *Keep in mind, if a wallpaper has an Alpha\Transparent layer in it, the Background Color will show through around each icon's name.* ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://www.tkcomputerservice.com/windows-xp-desktop-wallpaper.htm

Windows Vista : Resize an Existing Partition (Volume) This is a How-To on using the Windows Vista Disk Management Utility to re-size an existing Partition. _________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* _________________________ * Requires Administrator Privileges * *Make sure no Virtual Memory is allocated on the Partition or it won't allow resizing* In this video I'm going to show how I resize a Hard Drive Partition from with-in Windows Vista. There are a number reasons to manipulate an already established partition. The reason I'm resizing this Partition is to make room for another Operating System. With the large size of most Hard Drives today, you can also use this method to make a separate Partition for a data only Drive or for whatever reason you would like a separate Drive Letter on your Computer. First, go to the "Start Button", then select "Control Panel". If you are viewing the Control Panel by "Category", click "System and Maintenance", then under the heading "Administrative Tools" click "Create and Format Hard Disk Partitions". If the Control Panel is set to "Classic View", click "Administrative Tools", then "Computer Management". Once the "Computer Management Window" opens, expand "Storage", then click "Disk Management". Here you'll see all the Drives and their Partitions. In this example you see that Disc 0 has two Partitions. I'm going to shrink the first Partition which now has the Drive Letter of C assigned to it. This will allow me to gain space for a new Partition, that will be where I install a separate Operating System. Right-click on the Partition you want to change, in this case it will be the primary Partition that contains the C Drive, then select "Shrink". Enter the amount to shrink the Partition by using the Arrow Buttons, the Mouse Wheel or just highlight the Input Box and type-in the desired amount. Remember to leave some space on the original Partition so it doesn't become unusable later on. Then, click the "Shrink Button". The Wizard will take a few minutes and the new unpartitioned space will appear. It will be labeled as "Unallocated". I'm going to install another Operating System, but if I weren't I could simply right-click the unallocated space and select "Create a New Volume". Any new Volume must be formatted to become usable, this can be accomplished by right-clicking the new Volume and selecting "Format". That would give me a new blank Drive. In this case it'd be the F Drive. I'm not going to do that because I'm installing another OS, like I stated before. The Operating System Installer will take care of that for me. ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://www.tkcomputerservice.com/windows-vista-resize-hard-drive-partition.htm

Windows 10 : MS Store - Updating Apps (Tips & Tricks) A few Tips and Tricks on gaining greater Control & Understanding while updating Microsoft Store Apps. ___________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* ___________________________ Open the Microsoft Store App, then goto Downloads & Updates. Get Updates, pause automatic Installation/Download, then look for two Programs "App Installer" and "Microsoft Store", if updates are ready for either, update those first. Update any other Apps that have Updates. Then, open "Windows (Defender) Firewall with Advanced Security" and make sure the Updates have not changed any of the Setting in a manner that is different than desired. ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://www.tkcomputerservice.com/windows-10-updating-ms-store-apps.htm

Windows 10 Customize the Start Menu (Moving installed Start Menu Shortcuts) How I customize the Start Menu Shortcuts in Windows 10 (1803) ___________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* ___________________________ In this Video I show how I customize the Windows 10 Start Menu in version 1803 and above. Starting with version 1903 the User is, also, able to access the Start Menu folder inside the C:\ProgramData folder. That folder is hidden, but once accessed it'll allow greater customization of the Windows 10 Start Menu. The folder shown in the Video is the C:\Users\UserName\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs folder. To access it goto a non-native (third-party) installed Program's Shortcut and (right-click) it. Then select "open file location". That will open the current User's Start Menu Programs folder. You can browse directly to either of the before mentioned folders, but it may be necessary to un-hide Hidden Folders first. Files, folders and Drives can be un-hidden by going to the Control Panel, then clicking on the File Explorer Options link and under the View Tab selecting the Show hidden files, folders and Drives check box beneath the heading of Hidden files and folders. Setting-up identically named Folders in both locations should result in only one Folder with that name in the Start Menu. UWP Apps do not seem to be re-locatable, or atleast I couldn't find an unobtrusive way of moving\manipulating them. One other thing to be aware of is, when new Folders are created in the ProgramData Folder it must be named immediately. Right-clicking and renaming a Folder in that folder is disallowed. The customization of the Windows 10 Start Menu is not as easy or complete as previous versions of Windows, but this will allow the User some control over where to place Shortcuts in the Menu. ___________________________ What's Needed : Administrator Privileges Windows 10 version 1803 ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://tkcomputerservice.com/windows-10-custom-start-menu.htm

Windows 10 : How to Activate and add a Password to both the Administrator & Guest Accounts without using the Local Security Policy (Windows Pro or above) This is a How-To on enabling both the Administrator and Guest Accounts in Windows 10. I will, also, show how I add a Password to both. ___________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* ___________________________ Requirements: Administrator Privileges ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://www.tkcomputerservice.com/windows-10-add-admin-guest-account-password.htm

Windows 7 : User Account Pictures - Changing & Customizing the User Account Picture A How-to on changing the User Account Picture and adding custom pictures to the default User Account Picture selection in Windows 7. ___________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* ___________________________ * Requires Administrator Privileges * I like to add my own custom pictures to the default User Account Picture selection. It helps me identify which machine I'm on and some corporate clients want every single machine the same (background pic, user pic, etc.). Start Button - User Account Picture - Change Your Picture - (select) a Picture - Change Picture. You can, also, "Browse for More Pictures" located on the computer. To add custom picture to the default choices. (right-click) Start Button - "Open Windows Explorer" - Organize Menu Button - "Folder and Security Options". View Tab - (select) "Show Hidden Files, Folders and Drives" - (deselect) "Hide Protected Operating System Files". Apply - OK, then close and re-open Windows Explorer. Goto "C:\Users\All Users\Microsoft\User Account Pictures\Default Pictures". It's possible to add all the custom User Pictures you'd like. I always keep mine between 48x48 - 128x128 and save them as a .PNG file. All formats may not be compatible, but the most widely used formats are. Undo the changes made to the Advanced View Settings. Organize Menu Button - "Folder and Security Options" - View Tab - (select) "Don't Show Hidden Files, Folders and Drives" - (select) "Hide Protected Operating System Files". The custom pictures should now show-up under the default choices. ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://www.tkcomputerservice.com/windows-7-user-acct-picture.htm

Windows 7 : Managing Start-up Programs, Files & Objects - Autoruns How I manage start-up Programs, Files and Objects using Sysinternals' Autoruns. ___________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* ___________________________ * Requires Administrator Privileges * After, downloading Sysinternals' Autoruns from the link above. Extract it. (right-click) Autoruns.zip - Extract All - Extract. If the contents of the Autoruns folder is examined, there'll be two executables in it. "Autoruns.exe" the Windows executable & "Autorunsc.exe" the Command-Line executable. I usually move such programs (programs without an installer & from trusted publisher) to the "C:\Program Files" folder. Then, I make a shortcut to the desired executable. To do this: (right-click) the "Autoruns" folder - Cut - go to the "C:\Program Files" folder (right-click) it - Paste. Now, go to the "C:\Program Files\Autoruns" folder - (right-click) the executable "Autoruns.exe" - Send To - Desktop (create shortcut). (right-click) the newly created Shortcut - Rename. (right-click & hold) the Shortcut - (drag & hover) over the Start Button - (drag & hover) over All Programs - (drag & hover) over the chosen Menu Folder - (release) (select) Move Here. Now, the Autoruns Program will be easily accessible for later use. Start the program by (right-clicking) the shortcut - Run as Administrator. When Autoruns starts it will seem a little intimidating. *READ THE HELP FILE* It will be necessary to size the columns to better see the Entry descriptions. (click & hold) the Separator/s - (drag & size) each Column. Become familiar with the Program Menu. Go to "Options" - Font - (re-size) Font to 10 & (select) Bold. (...just for more ease of use.) Then, go to "Options" - Filter Options - (select) Verify Code Signatures. This will mark all Entries as either "Verified" or "Not Verified" by Microsoft. "Not Verified" is just that. It doesn't necessarily mean it's bad. Usually it's just non-Microsoft Software that hasn't gone through their verification system. Pink = "Not Verified" White = "Verified" Yellow = "File Not Found" Purple = "Location" be it a Registry Entry or in a Folder. ___________________________ Autoruns, can be downloaded at http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinternals/bb963902 ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://tkcomputerservice.com/windows-7-startup-programs.htm

Windows 7 : Firewall - Setup, Configuration & General Use This is a How-To on the Windows 7 Firewall. It covers Description, General Use, Rule\Policy Creation and Restoring\Exporting Firewall Configuration. ___________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so "AT YOUR OWN RISK".* ___________________________ A firewall is a software program or a dedicated computer that restricts or allows traffic on a Network. These Networks are of various types and the most common are the World Wide Web (an Internet - public), a local network or private network (an Intranet - private) and domains (a group of computers - public or private). The main reasons for restricting traffic on a Computer Network is to block unrequested data and to allow\disallow a Software Program's (Skype, Firefox, etc.) access. The windows 7 Firewall is a Software Firewall and is pre-installed as a part of the Operating System. It blocks both Inbound and Outbound Traffic, is capable of logging and allows for Custom Rule creation. Rules are the instructions the Firewall follows in the handling of Network Traffic. Rules are based on IP Addresses, Protocols, Ports and Programs. Firewall Policies usually refer to the entire set of Rules (inbound or outbound) for a Network Type (public, private or domain) but, can refer to all Rules for all Network Types as a whole. The Windows 7 Firewall allows for the simultaneous implementation of Firewall Rules for each separate type of Network. This ability is an upgrade from the Windows Vista Firewall which only allows the implementation of one Network Policy (public, private or domain) at a time. The Video shows how I access the Windows 7 Firewall, manipulate it, create Rules and back-up\restore the entire Firewall Policy. ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://www.tkcomputerservice.com/windows-7-firewall.htm

Windows 7 : Administrator Account - Activating, Obscuring, Setting\Resetting Password & Deactivating A How-to on Activating, Obscuring, Setting\Resetting Password & Deactivating the Administrator Account on Windows 7. ___________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* ___________________________ * Requires Administrator Privileges * Microsoft has in it's unbridled wisdom left the Administrator Account disabled and without a password. The "disabled" part is not bad, the password-less part, well. Maybe, all this is completely fine, but I just like knowledge that the account is password protected. This is how I deal with it. Start Button - All Programs - Accessories - (right-click) Command Prompt - Run As Administrator. When the "DOS\Command-line" window appears, type in the following command "net user Administrator /active:yes" and press "Enter". This will activate the Administrator account. It will now be visible when the following command is entered at the command prompt, "control userpasswords2" and the advanced user account menu becomes available. I usually obscure the administrator account by changing the user name to something random, but I leave the first four letters so I can tell the administrator account form all others at a glance. In this menu you can, also, add or change any other users password. Now, I close all windows and restart the computer to allow the changes to take effect. The administrator account, under It's new name, should now appear at the Log In screen. Log In on an account other than the administrator account and re-open the command-line window. Start Button - All Programs - Accessories - (right-click) Command Prompt - Run As Administrator. When the "DOS\Command-line" window appears, type in the following command "net user Admin47BcF08m7 /active:no" and press "Enter". The command will require the use of the new name of the account, not the old one, to work This will disable or deactivate the account, which is the safer way to operate. Restart the machine one more time and the Admin(whatever) account should no longer appear at the Log In screen. ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://www.tkcomputerservice.com/windows-7-administrator-password.htm

Windows 10 : Media Creation Tool (Windows 10) (quick tutorial) This is a How-To on creating Installation Media for the Windows 10 Operating System using the Microsoft Media Creation Tool. Media creation using the Media Creation Tool and the third-party utility Rufus. It can used as a basis for installing Windows 7 - 10. It is a "Quick Tutorial" (condensed), so the Pause Button will be your Friend. ___________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* ___________________________ Links : Download Windows 7, 8, 8.1 or 10 Installation Media at : https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/15088/windows-create-installation-media (Windows Media Creation Tool) Windows 10 Media Creation Tool : https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10 Download Rufus at : https://rufus.akeo.ie You'll need a USB Thump Drive, external Hard Drive or DVD (DL) that is 8 GBs in capacity or greater. The installation Image expands to 6 - 8 GBs. ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://www.tkcomputerservice.com/windows-10-ms-media-creation-tool.htm

Windows : How to Install Windows 10 (in-place upgrade) (quick tutorial) A How-To on doing an In-place Upgrade to the Windows 10 Operating System from a DVD. It can used as a basis for upgrading Windows 7 - 10. It is a "Quick Tutorial" (condensed), so the Pause Button will be your Friend. ___________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* ___________________________ Links : Download Windows 7, 8, 8.1 or 10 Installation Media at : https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/15088/windows-create-installation-media (Windows Media Creation Tool) You'll need a USB Drive, external Hard Drive or DVD around 5 GBs in capacity. The installation Image expands to around 4.3 GBs. Space needed to install : 20 - 65 GBs ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://www.tkcomputerservice.com/windows-10-in-place-upgrade.htm

Windows : How to Install Windows 10 (clean install)(quick tutorial) This is a How-To on installing the Windows 10 Operating System from a DVD. It can be used as a basis for installing Windows 7 - 10. It is a "Quick Tutorial" (condensed), so the Pause Button will be your Friend. ___________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* ___________________________ Links : Download Windows 7, 8, 8.1 or 10 Installation Media at : https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/15088/windows-create-installation-media ( Windows Media Creation Tool ) You'll need a USB Drive, external Hard Drive or DVD around 5 GBs in capacity. The installation Image expands to around 4.3 GBs. Space needed to install : 20 - 45 GBs ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://www.tkcomputerservice.com/windows-10-clean-install.htm

Windows : How to enter Safe Mode (Windows XP - Windows 10) This is a How-To on entering Safe Mode for Windows XP - 10 Operating Systems. _________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* _________________________ For Windows XP through Windows 7 repeatedly press the "F8" Key as soon as the Manufacturer's Logo\BIOS Splash Screen disappears. If done correctly the Advanced Boot Options Menu will appear. (select\high-light) the appropriate Choice and press the "Enter" Key. Most Users will select either "Safe Mode" or "Safe Mode with Networking". For Windows 8 and above it will be necessary to use the System Configuration Utility (msconfig.exe). To do that, hold the Windows Key and (press) the "R" Key one Time or (select\click) the Start Button, then (select\click) the Windows System Folder (Windows 10), then (select\click) the Run Shortcut. Once the Run Menu is open, in the Open: Box type-in the Command "msconfig" and (press) the Enter Key. Now the System Configuration Utility will appear. Go to the Boot Tab and (select\click) the Version of Windows that will be restarted into Safe Mode, then (select\check) "Safe Boot" with a sub-selection of "Minimal". As with the Advanced Boot Menu, Safe Mode with Networking is available here too (sub-selection of "Network"). The only caveat of using the System Configuration Utility is once in Safe Mode the User will need to run "msconfig" and (un-select\un-check) "Safe Boot" and under the General Tab (un-select\un-check) "Selective Startup" then (select\check) "Normal Startup". If that isn't done the Computer will restart into Safe Mode again at the next Boot. _________________________ Requirements : 1. Administrator Privileges. ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://www.tkcomputerservice.com/windows-how-to-enter-safe-mode.htm

Windows : 7-10 Sound Blaster Live Installation or How to install unsupported Hardware This is a How-To on Installing the Sound Blaster Live! 5.1 in Windows 7 - 10 Operating Systems. It, also, gives a general over-view of how to install un-supported or legacy Hardware. I'll show how I install older Hardware in newer Windows Operating Systems & how to extract the Drivers needed to do so. A few different methods of Hardware Driver Installation are shown. ___________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* ___________________________ Links : Download PeaZip - Free Zip files utility, free Rar files extractor at : peazip.sourceforge.net Creative Worldwide Support : support.creative.com ___________________________ Requirements : 1. An Internet Connection. 2. Administrator Privileges. 3. Manufacturer, Make & Model of Hardware to be installed. 4. An Archiving Program. ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://www.tkcomputerservice.com/hardware-install-unsupported-hardware.htm

The HeartBleed Web Security Vulnerability : Certificate Revocation Check A How-to for setting the Web Browser to check for revoked Validation Certificates. ___________________________ *N.B./Disclaimer - This video shows one of possibly many ways, under one computer's configuration, to implement the desired effect. If you choose to follow this example, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK.* ___________________________ For a more detailed explanation of what's know about the HeartBleed Vulnerability, to date. Please view: http://goo.gl/EiOcT2 ***Give the affected Websites and Operating Systems 5-10 Days or until You are sure the have fixed the Vulnerability, then change all Your Passwords.*** ***Keep an eye on all Accounts, Web or otherwise, for unusual activities.*** I wanted to address the recent HeartBleed Web Encryption Vulnerability and show you some ways you can help protect yourself. Now, the things I'm going to show you to do will not protect you until the Web Servers or the Operating Systems affected, patch their systems. But, It's generally a good thing to do. So, If you're using Mozilla Firefox, click it, open it. Then under the Menu Bar, click Tools, Then options. Once the options menu is open make sure advanced is highlighted and the sub tab Certificates is clicked. Then click the Button Validation and make sure both check-boxes are checked. You can simply click ok, ok on the Options Menu and close Firefox. If You are using Internet Explorer, open it. Go to the Tools Button, it's in the far top right hand corner, click it, then select Internet Options. If all you have available to you is the Menu Bar select Tools and then Options, or the Command Bar Tools and then Internet Options. Once the Internet Options Menu becomes available, make sure and select the Advanced Tab, then scroll all the way down to the bottom and under the heading of Security make sure four Boxes are checked here, Check for Publishers Certificate Revocation, Check for Server Certificate Revocation, Check for Signatures... and Do Not Save Encrypted Pages to Disk. Make sure atleast those four are checked. Select OK and you can close Internet Explorer. If You are using Chrome, open it. and in the top right hand corner select Customizing and Controls Button.This will bring-up your Options Menu for Chrome. I'm sorry and then go to settings.That'll bring-up your Options Menu for Chrome. Scroll down, until you see Show Advanced Settings, click it. And, You'll want to make sure two boxes are checked here. One under Privacy, Enable Fishing and Malware Protection, make sure that's checked, scroll down and under HTTPS\SSL make sure to check, Check for Server Certificate Revocation.Now you can re-hide the Advanced Options if you want to and simply close Chrome out. ___________________________ The entire Article can be found here: https://www.tkcomputerservice.com/web-browser-heartbleed-encryption-vulnerability.htm