CHIMALOGY

AV-Comparatives: Performance Test

2011-12-11T00:54:00.000-08:00

Last updated on 11 Dec 2011, Sun

*Users are encouraged to try out the software on their own PC’s and form an opinion based on their own observations.

(Performance Test)

Tested products:

The following products were evaluated (with default settings) in this test (November 2011):

avast! Free Antivirus 6.0

AVG Anti-Virus 2012

AVIRA Free Antivirus 2012

Bitdefender Antivirus Plus 2012

eScan Anti-Virus 11

ESET NOD32 Antivirus 5

F-Secure Anti-Virus 2012

G DATA AntiVirus 2012

K7 Antivirus Plus 11.1

Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2012

McAfee AntiVirus Plus 2012

Microsoft Security Essentials 2.1

Panda Cloud Antivirus Free 1.5.1

PC Tools Spyware Doctor with Antivirus 2012

Qihoo 360 Antivirus 2.0

Sophos Endpoint Security 9.7

Symantec Norton AntiVirus 2012

Trend Micro Titanium Antivirus Plus 2012

TrustPort Antivirus 2012

Webroot SecureAnywhere Antivirus 2012

Please note that the results in this report apply only to the products/versions listed above (e.g. 64-Bit versions, product version, etc.). Also, keep in mind that different vendors offer different (and differing quantities of) features in their products.

The following activities/tests were performed under Windows 7 Professional SP1 64-Bit:

File copying
Archiving / Unarchiving
Encoding / Transcoding
Installing / Uninstalling applications
Launching applications
Downloading files
PC Mark 7 Professional Testing Suite

(Click on the image for a clearer view)

I converted the above report into excel so that is easier to "read".

(Click on the image for a clearer view)

PC Mark Tests

In order to provide an industry-recognized performance test, we used the PC Mark 7 Professional Edition4 testing suite.

Users using PC Mark 7 should take care to minimize all external factors which could affect the testing suite and follow strictly at least the considerations/suggestions documented inside the PC Mark manual, in order to get consistent and valid/useful results.

Furthermore, the tests should be repeated several times to verify them. For more information about the various consumer scenarios tests included in PC Mark, please read the whitepaper on their website5. “Without AV” is tested on a baseline6 system which scores 2024 in the PC Mark test.

Summarized results

Users should weight the various subtests according to their needs. We applied a scoring system in order to sum up the various results.

For “file copying” we took the mean values, as well as for “launching applications” (on subsequent runs). Like in previous performance reports, “very fast” gets 15 points, “fast” gets 10 points, “mediocre” gets 5 points and “slow” gets zero points. This leads to the following results:

Overall for Performance Test
Top Anti-Virus with the lowest impact on overall result are Eset & K7.

Reference:
http://www.av-comparatives.org/

MRG Effitas - Anti-Virus Test Overall Result

2011-12-06T17:02:00.001-08:00

Last updated on 07 Dec 2011, Wed

Current overall results for MRG Flash Test Project 2011

Project started on: 27.01.2011

Project ended on: -

(Click on image for a clearer view)

Color Rating:

Note:

- All security applications are installed with default settings and the most recent build and signatures used in each test.
- Color Rating are given by Chimalogy and NOT by malwareresearchgroup.

Individual Tests Results Summary will be publish soon.

Reference:

http://malwareresearchgroup.com/malware-tests/flash-test-results/

Av-Comparatives - Anti-Phishing Tests

2011-10-29T22:47:00.000-07:00

All Contents | Last updated on 30Oct2011, Sunday

Anti-Phishing Tests - October 2011

Note:
These tests are not conducted by Chimalogy but by Av-Comparatives.

Test procedure

In our common test scenario we simulate a user which relies on the Anti-Phishing protection provided by its security product while browsing the web (and/or checking his web mail

e-mail account, i.e. anti-spam features are not considered as they are not the scope of this test).

The test was done using Windows XP SP3 and Internet Explorer 7 (without the build-in phishing blocker in order to get browser-independent results) under VMware. All security products were tested using default settings. All products were tested in parallel at the same time on the same URLs.

Tested products (19)

• AVG Internet Security 2011

• Avira Premium Security Suite 10.1

• Bitdefender Internet Security 2012

• Bullguard Internet Security 10.0

• eScan Internet Security 11.0

• ESET Smart Security 4.2

• F-Secure Internet Security 2011

• G DATA Internet Security 2012

• K7 Total Security 11.1

• Kaspersky Internet Security 2012

• McAfee Total Protection 2011

• Panda Internet Security 2012

• PC Tools Internet Security 2011

• Qihoo 360 Internet Security 2.0

• Quick Heal Internet Security 2011

• Symantec Norton Internet Security 2011

• Trend Micro Titanium Internet Security 2012

• Trustport Internet Security 2012

• Webroot Internet Security Complete 7.0

We were asked to test also Avast, Microsoft (Security Essentials) and Sophos. But Avast and Sophos do not have any Anti-Phishing feature, except blocking phishing mails with their spam filter.

Microsoft does block phishing websites in its browser (Microsoft Internet Explorer) and its spam filter (e.g. Microsoft Outlook); Security Essentials is not designed for this task.

ESET doesn’t have a dedicated module for anti-phishing protection yet. However, phishing sites are currently blocked along with other potentially harmful sites (like in most other products), employing various technologies such as web filter, parental control and detection of suspicious content aimed at the phishing landing pages themselves.

Qihoo is mainly targeted to block Chinese phishing sites.

Test Set

Phishing URLs taken out from spammed prevalent phishing mails and/or collected by our crawler and researchers. All phishing URLs had to be active/online and attempt to get personal information. Duplicate phishing URLs, as well as phishing campaigns hosted on same server/IP were removed.

All test cases were manually re-verified after the test. At the end, only 697 different and valid Phishing URLs remained. The phishing campaigns targeted various types of personal data.

Among those were (in the following order) phishing attempts to gather e.g. login credentials etc. for: PayPal, eBay, Online Banking & Credit cards, Social networks, Online Games,

E-mail accounts and other online services.

Below you see the percentages of blocked phishing websites (size of test set: 697 phishing URLs). Please take into consideration the false alarm rates (on next pages) when looking at the below results (products with false alarms are marked with an asterisk).

(Click on the image for a clearer view)

(Click on the image for a clearer view)

Anti-Phishing “False Alarm” Test

For the Anti-Phishing False Alarm Test we selected 1000 legitimate banking sites (all of them using HTTPS) from all over the world and checked if those legitimate online banking sites were blocked by the various security products.

Wrongly blocking such sites is a serious mistake. From the tested 19 products, only two (K7 and Webroot) had false alarms on the tested 1000 legitimate online banking sites:

K7 (1 false alarm):

• Bank Islam from Malaysia

Webroot (12 false alarms):

• AB Finance Bank from Russia

• Bank of Kenya from Kenya

• BLC Bank from Lebanon

• Dawia Next Bank from Japan

• Dhanlaxmi Bank from India

• Habib Bank Zuricj from UAE

• ING NL from Netherlands

• Marfin Laiki Bank from Cyprus

• Refah Bank from Israel

• Saxo eBank from Sweden

• ScotiaBank from Mexico

The discovered false alarms have been reported to the respective vendors and are now no longer blocked.

Which products support which browser?

Most browsers already include their own Anti-Phishing technologies. Nevertheless, due to the complexity and amount of social engineered scams and phishing attempts, it is recommended to make use of the Anti-Phishing features provided by security products too.

Practically all security products support the main stream browsers (i.e. Internet Explorer and Firefox), while only few support also other browsers. Due to that, it may be safer to make use of a supported browser to perform e.g. online banking.

(Click on the image for a clearer view)

Passed - Green (Supports all of the 5 commonly used browsers)

Neutral - Orange (Supports at least 3 commmonly used browsers)

Failed - Red (Supports less than 3 commonly used browsers)

Passed:

AVIRA Premium Security Suite

Bitdefender Internet Security

ESET Smart Security

G DATA Internet Security

Kaspersky Internet Security

Panda Internet Security

Trend Micro Titanium Internet Security

Neutral:

PC Tools Internet Security

Symantec Norton Internet Security

Failed:

AVG Internet Security

Bullguard Internet Security

eScan Internet Security

F-Secure Internet Security

K7 Total Security

McAfee Total Protection

Qihoo 360 Internet Security

Quick Heal Internet Security

Trustport Internet Security

Webroot Internet Security

Conclusion:

Top 7 that passes the overall tests.

1) 94.4% - Bitdefender

2) 92.8% -Trend Micro

3) 89.1% - AVIRA

4) 88.5% - G DATA

5) 85.1% - Kaspersky

6) 84.5% - Panda

7) 78.0% - ESET

Note:

I'm suprised that ESET managed to pass since it doesn’t have a dedicated module for anti-phishing protection yet but phishing sites is currently blocked along with other potentially harmful sites.

Chance of getting phished = Your Common Sense + Browsers + Security Products

In fact, this test seems pretty useless(except is show where is your anti-virus standing) to me as common sense play the largest part in this.

My advise is to always keep your software like browser and security product up-to-date and never open/click on any suspicious links from unknown and known person. Always double check with the person before clicking the link and is possible, type the link in your browser instead of clicking it.

Reference:

http://www.av-comparatives.org/en/comparativesreviews/anti-phishing-test

All Contents

All Contents

2011-06-11T07:49:00.000-07:00

Tip: You can use < Ctrl > + F for quick find.

< AuditionSEA >

- Abm missing problem

- Find out which abm files you are missing easily

- How to change between window mode and full sceen easily

- Setup Part files to help people to download faster

- Slow patcher problem

< Freebies >

- The Ultimate Guide to free paid software

- The Ultimate Guide to TOP free anti-virus/spywares

- How to make money online legally for free without any investment

- The best chosen free software for your computer

< Information >

[Security]

- Building up the ultimate defence

- How to differentiate if your security software is fake

- How to avoid malicious websites

- How do Malware get into our system

- Online Banking and Online Transaction Good Practices

- Online scanners

- Password tips

- Portable Anti-Virus for usb devices

- Rogue security software

- Software Updates

- Suspicious emails

- The 5 main updates

- The most dangerous places on web

- What is the best Anti-Virus

[General]

- Backup Data

- Hoaxes and email chain letters

- How can I prolong my laptop and its battery lifespan?

- Prevent framebreaker from loading

- Spam Emails

- µtorrent recommended setting

- What is the different between legal and free?

- What is an anti-spyware?
- What is an anti-virus?
- What is a firewall?

- What is phishing

- What is torrent?

[Microsoft/Windows]

- Adding Chinese language in keyboard

- Backup files easily using "Godmode2"

- System Restore

- Most commonly used keyboard shortcuts

[Privacy]

- What is a Proxy Server?

- Will shredding our files better than deleting our files

[Software]

- Browsers (Must Have) extensions

- What is download manager

< News >

[Security]

- Latest Security News

< Solutions >

[Anti-Virus/ Malware]

- Facebook virus/scam

- How to detect false positive

- How to remove msn virus?

- Prevention of msn virus

- Remove 100% of virus and malware in your computer in 5 steps!

- Removal tools for anti-virus
- Virus & malware- The Definitions And Symptoms

- What Anti-Virus is installed in my computer?

[General]

- Computer blackout suddenly

- Increase space by reducing files sizes and other methods
- Solving lagness in computer with small ram and disk space
- Ways to increase your internet connection speed

[Microsoft/Windows]

- Blue Screen of Death, how to solve it

- CCleaner still unable to remove IOutlook Plug?

- Delete start-up entry safely using Ccleaner!

- Explorer.exe uses a lot of CPU usuage
- How to bring back your disabled task manager and other options

- How to fix the problem when Windows Security Center reports multiple anti-virus programs installed?

- Internet Explorer 8 crashes

- Microsoft Office 2007 configuration process problem -Part 1 (MS Word & Powerpoint)
- Microsoft Office 2007 configuration process problem -Part 2(Excel stdole32.tlb error)
- Microsoft Office 2007 configuration process problem -Part 3- The Ultimate Fix for MS Office 2007
- No CD drive

- Speed up your computer in 10 easy steps (Standard)
- Speed up your computer (Advanced)

- Uninstall msn 2009 safely

- Windows 7 laptop battery issue
- Windows Live Messenger not responding during start up
- Windows updates- Code 8024402C

[Software]

- How To Uninstall and Remove Toolbar

- Media Player Classic - No audio

- Portable softwares

[Website]

- Browser display problem on Facebook

- Bypass computer restriction at office
- Bypass "uploading.com" restrictions using legal ways

< Tests >

[Security]

- AV-Comparatives Tests
- Av-Comparatives - Anti-Phishing Tests

- AV-Tests

- Latest Comparative Anti-Virus Results(Virus Bulletin)

[Software]

- Browsers Speed Test

- IE V.S. firefox V.S. chrome

- Window XP V.S. Vista V.S. 7

- WinRAR v.s 7Zip v.s "Compresses Zipped folder"

Note:

For any articles is outdated or any links is not working properly, you can inform me at the chatbox at the right side.

For suggestions about old/new articles, you can use the contact form located at the top of the page. For faster response, you can drop a message at the chatbox to inform me as I do not check my e-mail often.

Last updated on 11June2011

AV-Test

2011-05-29T20:46:00.000-07:00

All Contents | Last updated on 23Aug2011, Tuesday

Note:

This is another independence test conducted by AV-Test. (June 2011)

*Anti-virus that are used in these tests are used on their default settings which mean some had their heuristic turned on while the other did not turn on which resulted in the difference in the detection and false positive rate.

Chimalogy:

I believe False Positives is to be taken into account as it sometime cause as much or more damage/impact than a real infection.

I ranked according to the Score they achieved > Number of False Positives > Detection Rate > Repair.

Protection

"We" test the protective effect of security solutions by installing them on a non-infected system and examining how they respond to malware threats.

"We" do so by simulating a variety of attack scenarios such as the threat of e-mail attachments, infected websites or malicious files that have been transferred from external storage devices.

When carrying out these tests, AV-TEST takes the entire functionality of the protection program into account.

Here are the final score of Protection:

(Click on the image for a clearer view)

This is a summary of Protection Test. Maximum score is 6.0. Anything that is below 4.0 is not recommended to be use.

The number inside the bracket means the following: Protection/Blocking/Detection
(The higher the score the better).

Top 3* for Protection Test are BitDefender, Kaspersky, and AVG.

Repair

The repair performance of products is analysed using a system that is already infected.

"We" evaluate the products' ability to remove active malware and to restore other system changes as well as its performance when detecting and removing specially hidden malware (rootkits).

Here are the final score of Repair:

(Click on the image for a clearer view)

This is a summary of Repair test. Maximum score is 6.0. Anything that is below 4.0 is not recommended to be use.

The number inside the bracket means the following: Removal/Detection (The higher the score the better).

Top 3* for Repair Test are Kaspersky, BitDefender, and F-Secure.

Usability

"We" investigate the influence that security software has on the usability of the system and the system interferences that occur, for example: warning messages, general messages and blockages, false positives during system scans and the computer slowing down while the software is being used.

Here are the final score of Usability:

(Click on the image for a clearer view)

This is a summary of Usability test. Maximum score is 6.0. Anything that is below 4.0 is not recommended to be use.

The number inside the bracket means the following: Slow down/False Positives (The lower the score the better).

Top 3* for Usability Test are BitDefender , ESET and Microsoft.

ESET had the lowest impact on the system among all Anti-Virus that are tested. But due to False Positives, it had dropped 1 rank.

Overall Score

I decide to summarized the score to see the average score that each anti-virus had performed.

Here are the final score of Overall Score:

(Click on the image for a clearer view)

This is a summary of Overall test. Maximum score is 18.0. Anything that is below 11.0 is not recommended to be use.

The number inside the bracket means the following: Slow down/False Positives (The lower the score the better).

Top 3* for Overall Score Test are BitDefender, Kaspersky and F-Secure.

Here are the Anti-Virus who had achieved AV-TEST award:

Passed:

Avast: Free AntiVirus 6.0
AVG: Internet Security 10.0
Avira: Premium Security Suite 10.0
BitDefender: Internet Security Suite 2011
BullGuard: Internet Security 10.0
ESET: Smart Security 4.2
F-Secure: Internet Security 2011
G Data: Internet Security 2012
GFI: Vipre Antivirus Premium 4.0
Kaspersky: Internet Security 2011 & 2012
Microsoft: Security Essentials 2.0
Panda: Internet Security 2011 & 2012
Sophos: Endpoint Security and Control 9.5 & 9.7
Symantec: Norton Internet Security 2011
Trend Micro: Titanium Internet Security 2011
Webroot: Internet Security Complete 7.0

Failed:

Comodo: Internet Security Premium
K7 Computing: Total Security
McAfee: Total Protection
Norman: Security Suite Pro
PC Tools: Internet Security
CA: Internet Security Suite

Reference:

http://www.av-test.org/en/tests/test-reports/quarter-22011/

All Contents

How to differentiate if your security software is fake

2011-05-05T20:19:00.000-07:00

Content Page » How to differentiate if your security software is fake

[Last update on 06-05-2011, Fri]

Firstly, you will have to know what is a rogue security software (also known as fake anti-virus/security software). Read more on here.

After you read about what are rogue security software are and what they do, here are some ways to spot a fake security product:

1) An anti-virus program that installs itself then proceeds to “scan” the PC without user permission is unlikely to be real.

2) Anti-virus software today tries hard not to bother users. Fake anti-virus deliberately use loud and annoying alerts to cause panic and to alarm users.

3) If you are constantly reminded that you have to activate the product, it’s probably fake.

4) Real anti-virus products will offer to solve any threat they find straight away and will never require the user to pay before cleaning even for trial version - they are fully functional for trial period(E.g 30 days).

For instructions on how to remove Rogue security software, click here.

Here is a video about Fake AVG Antivirus 2011:

References:

http://blog.trendmicro.com/fakeav-101-how-to-tell-if-your-antivirus-is-fake/

http://blogs.quickheal.com/index.php?/archives/243-Fake-AVG-Antivirus-2011.html (Image)

[Back to Homepage]

2011-01-30T03:04:00.001-08:00

Last updated on 18/01/2011, Tue

AuditionSEA

-AuditionSEA-abm missing problem
-AuditionSEA- Find out which abm files you are missing easily
-AuditionSEA-How to change between window mode and full sceen easily
-AuditionSEA-setup Part files to help people to download faster
-AuditionSEA-slow patcher problem

Free gift section

-How to make money online legally for free without any investment
-Portable softwares
-The best chosen free software for your computer
~~-The Ultimate Guide to free paid software~~
~~-The Ultimate Guide to TOP free anti-virus/spywares~~

Information

-Adding Chinese language in keyboard
-Backup Data
-Backup files easily using "Godmode2"
-Browsers (Must Have) extensions
~~-Browsers Speed Test~~
-How can I prolong my laptop and its battery lifespan?
-IE V.S. firefox V.S. chrome
-Most commonly used keyboard shortcuts
-Spam Emails
-System Restore
-What is download manager
-µtorrent recommended setting
-What is a firewall?
-What is a Proxy Server?
-What is the different between legal and free?
-What is torrent?
-Window XP V.S. Vista V.S. 7
-WinRAR v.s 7Zip v.s "Compresses Zipped folder"

Security

~~-Building up the ultimate defence~~
-How to avoid malicious websites
-How do Malware get into our system
-Hoaxes and email chain letters
~~-Latest Comparative Anti-Virus Results(Virus Bulletin)~~
~~-Latest Security News~~
~~-AV-Comparatives Tests~~
-Online Banking and Online Transaction Good Practices
-Online scanners
-Password tips
-Portable Anti-Virus for usb devices
-Prevent framebreaker from loading
-Rogue security software
-The 5 main updates
-The most dangerous places on web
-Software Updates
-Suspicious emails
-VB100 award- Choosing the best and right anti virus
-What is an anti-spyware?
-What is an anti-virus?
-What is a firewall?
-What is phishing
-Will shredding our files better than deleting our files

Solutions

-Blue Screen of Death, how to solve it
-Browser display problem on Facebook
-Bypass "uploading.com" restrictions using legal ways
-Bypass computer restriction at office
-CCleaner still unable to remove IOutlook Plug?
-Computer blackout suddenly
-Delete start-up entry safely using Ccleaner!
-Explorer.exe uses a lot of CPU usuage
-How to bring back your disabled task manager and other options
-How to fix the problem when Windows Security Center reports multiple anti-virus programs installed?
-How To Uninstall and Remove Toolbar
-Internet Explorer 8 crashes
-Increase space by reducing files sizes and other methods
-Media Player Classic - No audio
-Microsoft Office 2007 configuration process problem -Part 1 (MS Word & Powerpoint)
-Microsoft Office 2007 configuration process problem -Part 2(Excel stdole32.tlb error)
-Microsoft Office 2007 configuration process problem -Part 3- The Ultimate Fix for MS Office 2007
-No CD drive
-Removal tools for anti-virus
-Solving lagness in computer with small ram and disk space
-Speed up your computer in 10 easy steps (Standard)
-Speed up your computer (Advanced)
-Uninstall msn 2009 safely
-Ways to increase your internet connection speed
-What Anti-Virus is installed in my computer?
-Windows 7 laptop battery issue
-Windows Live Messenger not responding during start up
-Windows updates- Code 8024402C

Virus & malware

-Facebook virus/scam
-How to detect false positive
-How to remove msn virus?
-Prevention of msn virus
-Remove 100% of virus and malware in your computer in 5 steps!
-Virus & malware- The Definitions And Symptoms

Best viewed on

| More information on how I test this solution

Other blogs: My blog (: | Wikilogy

Neither this blog "http://ezysolutions.blogspot.com/" nor the author has, in any case, any relation to any illegal activity. All solutions provided here should be use in a correct and legal way if possible.

This website is licensed under creativecommons.org. Redistribute the contents should be under the conditions on Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported License.

Privacy Policy

2011-01-30T02:42:00.001-08:00

At ezysolutions.blogspot.com/(Chimalogy), the privacy of visitors is of extreme importance to me. This privacy policy document outlines the types of personal information is received and collected by ezysolutions.blogspot.com/ and how it is used.

Log Files

Like many other Web sites, ezysolutions.blogspot.com/(Chimalogy) makes use of log files. The information inside the log files includes internet protocol (IP) addresses, type of browser, Internet Service Provider (ISP), date/time stamp, referring/exit pages, and number of clicks to analyze trends, administer the site, track user’s movement around the site, and gather demographic information. IP addresses, and other such information are not linked to any information that is personally identifiable.

Cookies and Web Beacons

ezysolutions.blogspot.com/(Chimalogy) does use cookies to store information about visitors preferences, record user-specific information on which pages the user access or visit, cmetomize Web page content based on visitors browser type or other information that the visitor sends via their browser.

DoubleClick DART Cookie

.:: Google, as a third party vendor, uses cookies to serve ads on ezysolutions.blogspot.com/(Chimalogy).

.:: Google’s use of the DART cookie enables it to serve ads to users based on their visit to ezysolutions.blogspot.com/(Chimalogy) and other sites on the Internet.

.:: users may opt out of the use of the DART cookie by visiting the Google ad and content network privacy policy at the following URL – http://www.google.com/privacy_ads.html

Some of my advertising partners may use cookies and web beacons on my site. My advertising partners include:

-Google Adsense

-adf.ly

These third-party ad servers or ad networks use technology to the advertisements and links that appear on ezysolutions.blogspot.com/(Chimalogy) send directly to your browsers. They automatically receive your IP address when this occurs. Other technologies ( such as cookies, JavaScript, or Web Beacons ) may also be used by the third-party ad networks to measure the effectiveness of their advertisements and / or to personalize the advertising content that you see.

ezysolutions.blogspot.com/(Chimalogy) has no access to or control over these cookies that are used by third-party advertisers.

You should consult the respective privacy policies of these third-party ad servers for more detailed information on their practices as well as for instructions about how to opt-out of certain practices. ezysolutions.blogspot.com/(Chimalogy)’s privacy policy does not apply to, and I cannot control the activities of, such other advertisers or web sites.

If you wish to disable cookies, you may do so through your individual browser options. More detailed information about cookie management with specific web browsers can be found at the browsers’ respective websites.

If you require any more information or have any questions about ezysolutions.blogspot.com/(Chimalogy) privacy policy, please feel free to contact me through Contact form.

*There might be future changes in Privacy Policy without any prior notice.*

Will shredding our files better than deleting our files

2011-01-18T05:45:00.000-08:00

<Content Page>» Will shredding our files better than deleting our files

[Last update on 18-01-2011, Tue]

This post dedicated to Deborah.

Delete:

Firstly, "delete" does not mean "erase" but rather "release memory for other use." The data may sit around un-used on the drive for years. That's why recovery software are able to recover file they had been accidentally deleted or delete by viruses.

Shredding:

It is also called overwriting or wiping in a harddisk. Basically it overwrite or erase your data so that it cannot be recover. And also it helps to save harddisk space and increase computer performance.

Conclusion:

I guess the answer is obvious. File shredding not only erase your contents on your disk(in terms of privacy) and also help you recover your precious harddisk space. 1 disadvantage is it requires a longer time than just deleting a file.

Free software to use:

File Shredder 2 - Shred file or folder and is much faster than wiping the whole harddisk

Ccleaner - Wiping the whole harddisk which might be quite long.

Instructions for Ccleaner:

The image basically explains all of the steps.

When you check on "Wipe Free Space", the above message will pop out.

I suggest, check this box ONLY if you are wiping disk space, otherwise for normal cleaning, un-check this option.

References:

Answers.com

Wikipedia

<Back to Homepage>

What is download manager

2011-01-11T05:58:00.000-08:00

<Content Page>» What is download manager

[Last update on 11-01-2011, Tue]

In Layman term:

A download manager accelerate(speeds up) your download by splitting a file into several parts and download all parts at the same time.

Default download:

-Download large file takes a long time.

-Usually cannot pause and resume download if download connections are lost.

Download Manager:

-Download large file takes shorter time. (Up to 10 times or more faster)

-Able to pause and resume download even the download connection are lost.

-Most download manager support video download option of any site that use flash player.

Paid Version:

Internet Download Manager (Recommended)

Internet Download Accelerator

Free Version:

Orbit Downloader (Recommended)

Download Accelerator Plus

Free Download Manager

FlashGet

Gigaget Download Manager

<Back to Homepage>

The most dangerous places on web

2010-12-07T18:38:00.000-08:00

<Content Page>» The most dangerous places on web

[Last update on 08-12-2010, Wed]

1) Websites That Use Flash

Adobe’s Flash graphics sofware has become a big malware target in recent years, forcing the company to push out frequent security patches.

- Always had the latest version of Flash Player on every browser you had

- Firefox, use Noscript

2) Twitter

Scammers love Twitter since it relies so much on URL shorteners.It’s very simple to hide malware or scams behind shortened URLs.

-Don't click links.

-Use Tweekdeck. It have preview features that let you see the full URL before you go to the site in question.

-Use URL Xray to find out What is behind the Shortened

3) Your E-mail

-Just delete all the emails in the junk and spam folder without opening them.

-Don’t trust anything in your inbox. Instead of clicking on links in a retailer’s e-mail, go directly to the retailer’s site.

4) Torrent Sites

-Malware hiding in video, music, or software downloads

-Use a secondary PC/Virtual Pc to protect your main system.

-Use antivirus sofiware, and keep it up-to-date.

-Scan downloaded filles and wait a couple of days before opening them. Brand new malware can be tricky to catch. Read about comments from other people.

-Avoid patches if possible and download the original software from the software's own site.Unless the program itself is malicious, it's not likely to be infected there.

5) "Legitimate" Porn Sites

-Be suspicious of video downloads, or sites that require you to install video codecs to view videos.

-Use these tools like linkscanner.avg.com,www.siteadvisor.com, Web-of-trust to protect you from untrusted sites.

6) Video Download Sites, Peer-to-Peer Networks

-Trojan horses disguised as video codecs, infecting your PC with malware. Example of these attacks: ZLOB

-Stick to well-known videos sites like Youtube and Vimeo.

-Latest espisodes of Tv shows: Hulu,Tv.com,ABC.com, itunes

7) Search Engines

-"Poisoned" search engine results that go to malware-carring Websites.

-Use these tools like linkscanner.avg.com,www.siteadvisor.com, Web-of-trust to protect you from unknown sites.

8) Hacked Websites, Plus Your Inbox

-Malicious PDFs that try to fool you into installing malware.

-Always make sure that you are running the latest version of Adobe Reader.

-Or use a different PDF reader like Foxit or Nitro PDF Reader.

You can also turn off Adobe Reader's abilityto open non-PDF attachments by going to:

Edit > Preferences > click on Trust Manager, uncheck "Allow opening of non-PDF file attachments with external applications."

9) Video Download Sites

-Malicious video files using flaws in player software to hijack PCs.

-Attackers have been known to exploit flaws in video players such as QuickTime player and use them to attack PCs.

-Avoid Download videos at random. Stick to well-known video sites such as Youtube, or to download services like iTunes.

10) Hacked Legitimate Sites

-Drive-by downloads that install malware when you visit a site.

-Keep your software,Window and anti-virus up-to-date since many security suites can block suspicious downloads.

-For extra protection, use Firefox with a add-on called Noscript since malicious code use javascript and Noscript blocks all script in a site unless you permit it.

11) Your Inbox, Hacked Legitimate Sites

-Fake antivirus software that extorts money-and your credit card information.

-If you get an alert saying you're infected with a malware, but it didn't come from the anti-virus you installed, stop what you are doing. Exit the site and update-your antivirus and do a full system scan.

If you are still worried, try installing a alternative anti-virus/anti-malware:

http://ezysolutions.blogspot.com/2009/04/remove-100-of-virus-and-malware-in-your.html

12) Just About Any Ad-Supported Website

-Avoid clicking any ads unless you are interested. Beware of Google Sponsored Links/Ads.

13) Facebook

-Be selective abouts the apps you add to your profiles. Avoid those quiz and survey apps.

Latest scam/threat on facebook:

http://ezysolutions.blogspot.com/2010/05/latest-security-news.html

Tips from the pros:

1) Keep up on all updates/patches.

2) Use different passwords(consists of upper & lower case,number etc) for all sites especially accounts like facebook and e-mail.

3) Use a good anti-virus like ESET or Avira.

4) Avoid it if somethings sounds too good be true like free download etc.

5) Be paranoid and don't trust anyone easily except me(LOL). Confirm with them be, for example, msn and facebook links.

Reference:
PC World

<Back to Homepage>

Remote Support by TeamViewer

2010-12-04T19:37:00.000-08:00

Chimalogy:

-I can help you solve you computer problems for free using Remote Support.

-Make sure all of your sensitive files are keep safely at other locations.

-For better communication, you can use the Live Chat or Chatbox.

Instructions:

-You can choose either Install or Run if you do not intent to install it > Next

-Check and Accept the Terms > Next

-Give me your ID number and Password it show at the "Wait for Session" area.

E.g. ID: 123 456 789 Pw: 4321

[Download]

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Contact Me

2010-12-03T21:15:00.000-08:00

Your Name :
Your Email :
Subject :
Message :
Image (case-sensitive):

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Facebook virus/scam

2010-11-13T00:15:00.001-08:00

<Content Page> » Facebook virus/scam

[Last update on 20-11-2010, Sat]

Story:

The other time my friend said his computer was affected by a facebook virus. I thought it was the usual virus/scam link that infect your account when you click it and the symptom are the same/similar link are posted on your wall without your permission and friend who click it also get the same result.

Solutions for these type of virus:

If you've been hit by a scam like this, remove references to it from your newsfeed, and revoke the right of rogue applications to access your profile via Account/ Privacy Settings/ Applications and Websites.

Here is an example:

http://nakedsecurity.sophos.com/2010/11/09/lost-all-respect-for-miley-cyrus-facebook-survey-scam-spreads-virally/

If will be even better if you scan your computer with a up-to-date anti-virus, change your current facebook password and avoid clicking unknown link in facebook/e-mail/msn.

Facebook Virus similar to msn virus (Foto virus)

If you did not get the above virus but the "Foto" virus, which automatically download a software to your computer and "vanish" when you try to search for it.

What I did to help him remove is I use a cloud based multi-anti-virus called Hitman Pro to remove it. You can try using your current anti-virus to search for it. If it fail, try using Hitman Pro as it takes less than 10 minutes to detect it.

Hitman Pro: http://www.surfright.nl/en/downloads

Is a shareware/paidware but it offer free scan and a one time activation of 30 days trial for you to remove any malicious software it detects.

References:

sophos.com

Weixian (Image)

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Internet Explorer 8 crashes

2010-11-01T02:21:00.000-07:00

<Content Page> » Internet Explorer 8 crashes

[Last update on 01-11-2010,Mon]

Internet Explorer 8 crashes problem:

Symptoms:

“Whenever I try to access mail.yahoo.com, the page shows up and immediatelyIE 8 crashes. It happens withmost [other] Websites, too.”
Browser crashes can be tough to troubleshoot—especially in the absence of information about your PC, operating system, and so on.

Solutions:

Begin by uninstalling the Flash Player plug-in and its ActiveX component, using a small uninstall utility available from Adobe (Adobe Flash Uninstaller). Afer running the utility, reboot your PC. Next, close IE and reset it to its default settings (thus removing any problematic add-ons).

Here’s what Vista/ Windows 7 users should do:

Click Start, type Internet Options, and press .
Click the Advanced tab, and then click the Reset button at the bottom of the window. (Do not check the box marked ‘Delete personal settings’.) To complete the process, click Reset.
Restart IE and head to Adobe’s Flash Player page (http://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/). Follow the instructions there to install the Flash Player.

Now try signing into the site that gave you trouble. IE shouldn’t crash. If it remains stable, reinstall any add-ons you were using—one at a time, checking afer each installation to make sure that everything still works.

Reference:

PC World

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Browsers Speed Test

2010-09-12T02:01:00.000-07:00

Content Page » Browsers Speed Test (May2011)

[Last update on 10-05-2011, Tue]

What is consider a good browser?

-Support multiple of add-ons and extensions.(It must be customizable)

-Blocking potential security threats such as phishing or cross-site scripting attacks and be resistant to malware.

PC World:

BEST INTERFACE: Chrome

Chrome comes out ahead thanks to its clean,functional interface, but also liked the polish of Opera and Safari. Whcih interface is "best" can be sujective, so this is largely a matter of personal preference..

BEST SECURITY: Chrome

Sandboxing is great(and you'll never notice it). Chrome was he last browser remaining at this year's Pwn2Own hacking contest(find.pcworld.com/70314), too.

BEST EXTENSIONS: Firefox

Though there's a lot to like about add-on support in other browsers, Firefox still takes the prize in this comparison, mainly because its extension support and library are already mature and well establised.

BEST PAGE LOADING: Chrome

In this speed test, Chrome enjoyed only a slight lead over the other four browsers we examined.

BEST JAVA-SCRIPT HANDLING: Chrome

Google's browser surpassed its four major competitors by a fair margin on this particular test.

PC WORLD recommendation: Chrome

We like Chrome for its clean and friendly interface, good performance, and strong security. It covers all the basics for most users, and it offers plenty of customization for power users.

PC PRO:

SunSpider

1) Internet Explorer 9 (3 points)

2) Chrome 10 (2 points)

3) Firefox 4 (1 point)

Futuremark Peacekeeper

1) Chrome 10 (3 points)

2) Internet Explorer 9 (2 points)

3) Firefox 4 (1 point)

Memory footprint

1) Chrome 10 [1 tab] (6 points)

2) Internet Explorer 9 [1 tab] (5 points)

3) Firefox 4 [1 tab] (4 points)

4) Firefox 4 [5 tabs] (3 points)

5) Chrome 10 [5 tabs] (2 points)

6) Internet Explorer 9 [5 tabs] (1 point)

Internet Explorer 9 (11 Points)

Ease of use: 4/6

Features & Design: 4/6

Performance: 4/6

Overall: 4/6

Firefox 4 (9 points)

Ease of use: 5/6

Features & Design: 6/6

Performance: 4/6

Overall: 5/6

Chrome 10 (13 points)

Ease of use: 5/6

Features & Design: 5/6

Performance: 6/6

Overall: 5/6

Chimalogy recommendation: Chrome

Fast, easy to navigate, wide screen and neat interface.

Features:

-Auto detects of languages,

-Option to translate between languages,

-Fast search & search suggestion directly from the address bar,

-Easier to edit and view source code for HTML editors,

-Includes sandbox for additional security.

However, some extensions does not work on Chrome yet(For extensions/add-ons, use Firefox). Eats up a lot of ram when using multiple tabs.

References:

PC World

PC Pro

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Online Banking and Online Transaction Good Practices

2010-08-07T03:49:00.001-07:00

<Content Page> » Online Banking and Online Transaction Good Practices

[Last update on 07-08-2010, Sat]

Here are some tips when doing online banking and online transaction:

-Always use the latest version of the browser so that you are protect against latest vulnerabilities attacks. Avoid using Internet Explorer since they have a vulnerability that have yet patch and Safari as Apple's softwares are known for the most vulnebilities holes. [Apple Source]

-Be sure you are on the correct site and not on a phishing site. This can be determined whether you are a safe site if you are using Firefox with WOT(Web-of-Trust) and McAfee's siteadvisor.

-Legit online transaction also websites have "https://" which stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure or you can see a "lock" icon appear on top or below of the browser depending what types of browser you are using.

-Never share your passwords with anyone, create a good password consisting of numbers,
uppercase and lowercase letters and change it regularly. Also, do not use the same passwords for your online accounts especially anything that involves with money.

-Scan your computer regularly for malware with a up to date anti-malware.

-Use a wired connection to prevent people from hacking to your computer.

-Do not open any attachment from your email if they are asking for your personal details to confirm with them as bank don't ask for personal information.

-Never leave your session unattended and log off your online session after use.

-Check your Account balance and transaction history regularly. Also check your last login for your account and notify the staff if you notice any dubious login.

Reference:
http://www.dbs.com/sg/personal/ibanking/additionalinfo/security/default.aspx

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How to make money online legally for free without any investment

2010-08-01T02:21:00.001-07:00

Due to Google policy, any contents that are related to ptc in blogspot will have the risk of getting the blog being deleted. To be safe and respect Google policy, I currently re-post the ptc contents on my another site.

PTC-Profits:

To visit it, click on the banner:

PTC-PROFITS's website summary:

- Refback up to 120% or $1 which mean I pay for my referrals when you join under me.

- Learn the difference between what is an REAL PTC, BUX, HYBID(BUX), Aurora and much more about PTC sites.

- You can also earn free credit whenever you cashout and use for free advertising.

To find out more, click on the banner above or visit here.

How to get credits from framebreaker ads or website doesn't not load:

- Prevent framebreaker from loading (Works for any framebreaker ads like adf.ly or linkbucks!)

Top 3 most popular articles:

- The Ultimate Guide to free paid software
- Latest Security News
- The Ultimate Guide to TOP free anti-virus/spywares

All Content | To get the latest updates, you can join us on PTC Profits's facebook.

I have created a new site here.

Portable softwares

2010-07-28T05:51:00.000-07:00

<Content Page> » Portable softwares

[Last update on 08-07-2010, Wed]

To be consider portable:

1) Does not require any installation on the computer you are using,can be stored on a removable device and can be use on any computer.

2) Settings and files created can be stored within the the removal device.

3) No personal information are stored in the used computer after the program had exit.

Advantages:

-No need to install

-If file is corrupted, just delete the folder and re-download a new copy.

Disadvantages:

-Might not check for the latest version.

-Portable software tend to launch slower than installed software

Current list of "legit" portable software:

-Charny Programmer NotePad

-KeePass Password Safe Portable

-Minime

-Q-Dir

(Will update again)

For more portable softwares:

Portableturk

Portableapps

For more free softwares:

The best chosen free softwares for your computer

The Ultimate Guide to TOP free anti-virus/spywares

The Ultimate Guide to free paid software

Wikilogy

Reference:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_portable_software

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Portable Anti-Virus for usb devices

2010-07-20T23:56:00.000-07:00

<Content Page> » Portable Anti-Virus for usb devices

[Last update on 21-07-2010, Wed]

Sometimes our anti-virus failed to protect your system from malicious attacks which resulted in infections. So why do we need portable anti-virus since we already have online scanners?

Firstly, online scanner will only works if you have a internet connection(on the computer that you are going to scan).

Secondly, provided that the malicious software had no disable your browser access to the internet. As long you have any 1 of the factors above, online scanners will be useless.

And the most important feature that portable anti-virus have over installed anti-virus is they doesn't required any installation. This will be extremely useful for people which can't installed a new anti-virus because the Malware had prevented it.

Other advantages is they will not interfere with other anti-virus and result your computer being unstable and also they are FREE to use.

Here are the list of portable security tools:

1) Avira AntiVir Removal Tool

2) ClamWin Portable

3) Sophos Anti-Rookit

4) Dr.Web CureIt!

5) VIPRE Rescue Program

6) Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool 2010

7) Emsisoft Emergency USB Stick

8) Hitman Pro *

*Need a internet connection to run.

Reference:

http://thepcsecurity.com/ultimate-list-of-portable-antiviruses-for-your-usb/

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Prevent framebreaker from loading

2010-07-20T21:31:00.000-07:00

Content Page » Prevent framebreaker from loading

[Last update on 07-06-2011, Tue]

Currently I'm updating the template of the site to make it look better which will take some time.

If you are interested, you can look at the current new site that i had design so far @ here.

What is a framebreaker?

It is a piece of JavaScript code that doesn't allow a Web page to be displayed within a frame. A frame is a subdivision of a Web browser window and can act like a smaller window. This kind of script is often used to prevent a frame from an external Web site being loaded from within a frameset without permission. Sometimes it redirect you into other websites.

Also known as a framekiller/framebuster.

Example of framebreaker.

So why do we sometimes need to prevent framebreaker from loading?

For people who is earning online from PTC's, this is a very important to them. If they visit a website and the website uses a framebreaker, he will not get credited from visiting the website.

Another danger is that it redirects you to another website which might lead to a malicious website.

To solve these problems, here are some of the ways to fight it:

1) NoScript - Allow active content to run only from sites you trust, and protect yourself against XSS and Clickjacking attacks. (This is the most effective way) This stops most of the frambreaker ads I ever see.

Firefox add-on:

https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/722/

2) ESC way - Since there are no NoScript add-on for Internet Explorer and Google Chrome. The only way to stop the framebreaker is to press esc(This need some skills as you need to wait for the advertisement to load finish and before the framebreaker exit the current page.)

This method might not work on some framebreaker.

3) The ultimate way to stop framebeaker. Sometime when something forced you too much, the solution just come out from the mind. :D I should thanks to those frambreaker's member who use it at Mindbux(A PTC site) to trigger me with this perfect solution.

The first 2 ways should be able to stop most of the framebreaker ads since Noscript and the "Esc" way are prevent most of the script to run.

Ok, since you are reading the 3rd solution, I assumed that the first 2 had failed.

- Firstly, I recommend using Google Chrome as it is easier to use and one of the best browser to study code for website. Other browser will do but I will explain using Google Chrome.

- Secondly, you need to take note/copy the address of the framebreaker ad.

- Thirdly, re-open the framebreaker ad and wait for the bar on top to load finish and quickly press esc.

- Next, Right Click on the white area and select Inspect element.

[To view the enlarged version of the image, click here]

- Next, Type/paste in the link you had copied to seach for that link on the webpage. It should right beside " < i frame scr "

[To view the enlarged version of the image, click here]

- Next, click on "Edit as HTML"

[To view the enlarged version of the image, click here]

- Lastly, Change the address to something else like yahoo.com. After changing, click on the white space area and yahoo will load and so does your timer will load.

[To view the enlarged version of the image, click here]

By the way, you need to add Mindbux(This apply to other sites as well) to the safezone for Noscipt. Otherwise most of the thing in Mindbux will not work like timer, buttons etc.

To enable script on the site, just click on Noscipt in Firefox and select Allow "Mindbux.com".

Reference:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Framekiller

If this had help you to stop framebreaker ads or you like about this site, you can thanks me by "like" this site on facebook @here. You can also share this page if you like.

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How To Uninstall and Remove Toolbar

2010-07-17T01:54:00.000-07:00

<Content Page> » How To Uninstall and Remove Toolbar

[Last update on 17-07-2010, Sat]

Toolbar Uninstaller allows you to uninstall various unwanted toolbars. Many programs come bundled with a toolbar that gets installed automaticly if you don't pay attention during the installation. Even freeware programs come bundled with toolbars.

As time progresses, there are now more then 10.000 different toolbars and counting. Toolbar Uninstaller (TbU for short) will be able to find some of them to be able to remove them.

[Download]

If other toolbars are not listed in the Toolbar Uninstaller. You can uninstall it in Programs and Features.

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How to bring your Disabled Task Manager, Folder Options, Registry & Hidden Files

2010-07-17T01:32:00.000-07:00

<Content Page> » How to bring your Disabled Task Manager, Folder Options, Registry & Hidden Files

[Last update on 17-07-2010, Sat]

Sometimes you can't access to your task manager or even to other like folder option, regedit. Usually is the caused by Virus infection or the administrator disabled it.

There are 3 solutions for the above problems:
1)
Use Regain Power program to bring back your task manager and other options. [Download]
2)
If you got the message"
taskmgr.exe - Bad Image The application or DLL
C:\WINDOWS\ system32\VDMDBG.dll is not a valid Windows Image. Please check
this against your installation diskette.

" after hitting
ctrl + alt + del. It might be a virus disabled it.

To solve it:
Go to C:\WINDOWS\system32 and delete VDMDBG.dll. It will restore back the .dll file and the task manager will no longer be disabled.

3) If you have the time, do a full system scan using a up-to-date anti-virus.

References:
http://forums.techarena.in/mediacenter/686057.htm
http://www.snaphow.com/how-to-bring-back-disabled-task-manager-folder-options-registry/

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How do Malware get into our system

2010-07-07T03:35:00.000-07:00

<Content Page> » How do Malware get into our system

[Last update on 07-07-2010, Sat]

Most common ways:

-Through infected usb devices, memory cards and Smartphones.

-Open unknown email's attachment.

-Visit unknown websites.

-Downloads illegal files from websites such as torrent,megaupload etc.

-Porn websites ☻

-Msn and facebook virus links

-Need to download "video codecs" to play certain videos you got online.

-Auto installation of Rogue Security Software when you surf the net and hit the "x" option to close the website.

-"Freeware" such as nice pointers, screensaver etc.

-The moment we connect to internet without any anti-virus or firewall protection.

Prevention is always the best cure. Read more @ here:

Building up the ultimate defense

How to avoid malicious website

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Adding Chinese language in keyboard

2010-07-07T02:37:00.000-07:00

<Content Page> » Adding Chinese language in keyboard

[Last update on 07-07-2010, Sat]

1) Click on start, click on control panel. Search for Region and Language and click on it.

2) Under Keyboards and Languages, click on Change keyboards.

3) Click on add.

4) Scroll down to Chinese (Simlified, PRC). Expand the tab, select the first 2 options which have the Microsoft Pinyin at the back.

5) Click on the CH Chinese (Simplified, PRC) and then click on apply follow by OK.

6) Press alt + shift on your keyboard and near the bottom right will show the Chinese language option. Launch a notepad and try it!

Reference:
Aaron(Miku)

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Ways to increase your internet connection speed

2010-06-30T06:16:00.000-07:00

<Content Page> » Ways to increase your internet connection speed

[Last update on 30-06-2010, Sat]

Here are some way to speed up:

-Use a wired connection instead of wireless.

-Use a good browser like Google chrome which have the fastest speed in browsers.

-Disable unnecessary add-ons.

-Scan your computer for Malicious Software. Malware slows down your computer and internet speed.

-Maintaining your computer such as cleaning junk files and defragging not only speed up your computer but also speed up your internet speed. Read the guide @ here.

-Use download manager to speed up your download speed.
Here is the list of download managers.

The most effective way to increase your internet speed is to subscribed to a more expensive plan.

<Back to Homepage>

Speed up your computer (Advanced)

2010-06-30T03:33:00.000-07:00

<Content Page> » Speed up your computer (Advanced)

[Last update on 30-06-2010, Sat]

For anti virus:

-Off hourly automatically updates. Set a time to update once a day.

-Turn off weekly scan(Full scan or quick scan). Choose one of the day you are free and do a manual scan(at least once a week).

Files:

-Delete unwanted files such as videos or you can transfer them to your portable hard disk and save your disk space. D
efrag your hard drive after that using Auslogics disk defrag.
[Download]

-Remove unnecessary shortcuts. Shortcuts are meant to be shortcuts. If you have a lot of shortcuts, and it take a time for you to locate the right shortcut, then this method can no longer called shortcut.

Programs:

If you already have deleted/blocked unnecessary start up programs, but you computer is still slow, you may want to delay your start-up program using start-up delay. [Download]

Speed, not style
Right-click My Computer, select properties and then click Advanced system Settings.
Under performance, click setting and select the "Adjust for best performance"

Turn off UAC control
or use a less bothersome UAC by norton. [Download]

Turn off slidebar.
Right click anywhere on the Sidebar and select Close Sidebar. Uncheck Start Sidebar when Windows starts, and then click OK. (Vista)

Just close the gadgets by clicking on the "x". (Seven)

Disable Unnecessary Graphical Effects (Aero glass effects)
Right Click on desktop
Select personalize
Select Window Colour and Appearance
Select Open classic appearance properties for more colour options
Select Choose Windows Vista Basic
Click on OK

Shutdown Search Indexing

Windows Vista Search Indexing is constantly checking the files on your system to make their information available for quick searching. This is helpful, but can severely slow system performance as the average user doesn’t use the search function frequently.

-Click the Start button

-Select Computer

-Right-click on the C: Drive icon-Select Properties

-Select the General Tab

-Uncheck Index this drive for faster searching-On the next dialog box, select Apply Changes to Drive C:,subfolders and files
-Click OK

Disable Automatic Disk Defragment

Windows Vista uses an always-on defragment set up that isn’t that necessary and will cause your system to slow down. Remember to run a defragment manually once a month.

-Click the Start button

-Type disk defragmenter

-Click on disk defragmenter

-Uncheck Run on a schedule

-Click OK

Disable and shutdown Windows Defender Operation

In actuality, this built-in malware protector from Microsoft is very poor at protecting your computer from external threats. You are much better off using a 3rd-party software program.

-Click on start

-Type Window Defender

-Select Window Defender

-Choose tools from the top of the menu.

-Uncheck all the options.

-Select OK

Turn-Off Un-Needed Features

There are many new features in Windows Vista that are installed by default that you may not need. These extra and un-needed features can slow down your computer and take up more storage space. Windows Features can be un-installed using the Windows Features utility.

-Click on the Start Button

-Select Control Panel

-Under Programs click Uninstall a program

-On the left side menu, click on Turn Windows features on or off

-Scroll through the list as shown below and uncheck from any feature you do not want installed.

-Click OK when you are finished making your changes.

Disable Unused Services

Services are background processes which keep running waiting for a response, so if you don’t use the application it still runs and slows PC speed. The average user doesn’t need many running.

-Click the Start button

-Type msconfig in the Start Search box, hit enter

- Click the Services tab

- Uncheck the unneeded startup items (examples below)

Desktop Window Manager Session Manager - Provides Desktop

Window Manager startup and maintenance services. Uncheck to disable.

Diagnostic Policy Service - Enables problem detection, troubleshooting and resolution for Windows components. Uncheck to disable.

Diagnostic Service Host - Same as above

Diagnostic System Host - Same as above

Offline Files - The Offline Files service performs maintenance activities on the Offline Files cache. Uncheck to disable.

Terminal Services - Allows users to connect interactively to a remote computer. Remote Desktop and Terminal Server depend on this service. If you don’t use either of these, then you can disable the service. Uncheck to disable.

Windows Error Reporting Service - Allows errors to be reported when programs stop working or responding and allows existing solutions to be delivered. Uncheck to disable.

After you are finished, click Apply then click OK to save changes.

Reference:
Personal Computer World, PC World

<Back to Homepage>

What Anti-Virus is installed in my computer?

2010-06-17T21:35:00.000-07:00

<Content Page> » What Anti-Virus is installed in my computer?

[Last update on 18-06-2010, Fri]

I always have this problem on how to know what's anti-virus my friend using when they need my help regarding on virus removal or etc.

At first I thought of asking them to screenshot a list of their installed program . But some of them don't even know how to screenshot. -.-'"

Finally I thought of a simple and most effective way to find out which is looking at the action center at the superbar(taskbar for window 7).
Another way to look for it is through control panel > action center.

Under security, Virus protection. For mine, I'm using ESET Smart Security.

For Vista and XP, it is called Windows Security Center.

<Back to Homepage>

Browsers (Must Have) extensions

2010-06-09T00:48:00.000-07:00

<Content Page> » Browsers (Must Have) extensions

[Last update on 20-11-2010, Sat]

Chrome's must have extensions:

AdThwart(
Blocks ads):

https://chrome.google.com/extensions/detail/cfhdojbkjhnklbpkdaibdccddilifddb

WOT-Web Of Trust(
Link scanner):

https://chrome.google.com/extensions/detail/bhmmomiinigofkjcapegjjndpbikblnp

McAfee SiteAdvisor(
Link scanner):

https://chrome.google.com/extensions/detail/dckheglehcdhpjkdmmmghbgkcdebhhae

Speed Dial:

https://chrome.google.com/extensions/detail/dgpdioedihjhncjafcpgbbjdpbbkikmi

FastestChrome:

https://chrome.google.com/extensions/detail/mmffncokckfccddfenhkhnllmlobdahm

TooManyTabs

https://chrome.google.com/extensions/detail/amigcgbheognjmfkaieeeadojiibgbdp

Firefox's must have extensions:

Adblock Plus(Blocks ad)
:
https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/1865/

WOT-Web Of Trust(
Link scanner):
https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/3456/

Speed Dial:
https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/4810/

Fastest Fox:
https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/9825/

NoScript:

https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/722

McAfee's Siteadvisor:

http://www.siteadvisor.com/download/windows.html

TooManyTabs:

https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/9429/

References:

http://gouthaman.wordpress.com/2010/05/07/6-must-have-chrome-addons/

http://www.madrasgeek.com/2010/05/5-must-have-firefox-add-ons.html

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Windows Live Messenger not responding during start up

2010-06-01T23:18:00.000-07:00

<Content Page> » Windows Live Messenger not responding during start up

[Last update on 02-06-2010, Sat]

Problem:

My msn always do not respond in Window 7 when start up or when it is still logging in and I tap on other window, it will shows the not responding message.

I tried uninstall and reinstall and the problem still exist.

Solution:
Problem is solved when I download and install latest version.

Download the latest version of msn here.

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No CD drive

2010-05-26T01:50:00.000-07:00

<Content Page> » No CD drive

[Last update on 13-11-2010, Sat]

CD drive is gone:

Possible reason cause:

Sometime this problem is caused by uninstalling itunes from your computer. (They should rewrite their codes in itunes. :O)

Upper- / Lowerfilter problem

Upper- / Lowerfilter can cause problems while accessing CD/DVD/Blu-ray Disc drives.

To remove them, try following the below instructions:

1. Open Start -> Run

2. Enter "regedit" -> OK

3. Locate the following registry subkey:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE/System/CurrentControlSet/Control/Class{4d36e965-e325-11ce-bfc1-08002be10318}

4. Open File -> Export in the menubar

5. Enter "savekey" as filename, and then press "Save".

(This is only a backup file, you can restore back if necessary.

6. Select the REG_MULTI_SZ data type "UpperFilters" and delete the whole entry(if available).

If you are prompted to confirm the deletion, select "Yes".

7. Select the REG_MULTI_SZ data type "LowerFilters" and delete the whole entry (if available).

If you are prompted to confirm the deletion, select "Yes".

8. Quit the Registry Editor and restart your computer.

Drive has returned:

Reference:

Ashampoo Burning Studio 9

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Media Player Classic- No audio

2010-05-25T21:30:00.000-07:00

<Content Page> » Media Player Classic- No audio

[Last update on 26-05-2010, Wed]

Instructions:
If solution 1 does not works for you, proceed to the next solution and so on.

Solution 1:
Press O, under internal filters,
Try enabling/disabling the interal audio switcher.

Solution 2:
Uninstall K-Lite Codec Pack, re-download a fresh new copy @ here and install it again.

Solution 3:

*Always create a new system restore point in case you delete the wrong registry key.

Go to this website and press Ctrl + F and paste in the below words:

Sound suddenly stopped working in Media Player Classic, but still works in other players

If you still don't understand, here a more detail instructions.

Solution 4:
Go to the following location
Computer > Local Disk (C:) > Program Files > K-Lite Codec Pack > Media Player Classic

Rename mpc-hc to mpc-hc2.

Now right click on one of your video file, select properties.
Under the General tab,
Opens with, click on change.

Click Browse,
K-Lite Codec Pack > Media Player Classic
and select mpc-hc2 and click open. And then click ok.
Click Apply and that will solve your audio problem.

*You will have to do this once for each different format.

Reference:
http://forum.videohelp.com/threads/286657-Media-Player-Classic-No-Sound

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