www.whizatpc.com

MVP Global Summit.. It's a great experience..

2007-03-15T15:25:00.000-07:00

The MVP Global summit (held in Seattle Microsoft campus) is awesome and it's a great experience.

I had a chance to meet all the people from the world and infact this is the first MVP summit in which Bill Gates has addressed, and also 1800+ MVPs were participated.

I had also a chance to meet all my Indian MVPs. My sincere thanks to every one, who helped me a lot. I will share some of my sweetest moments at the earliest..

Mouse & Keyboard drivers for Windows Vista

2007-02-17T21:41:00.000-08:00

Downloading the compatible mouse & Keyboard drivers is simple now.. Simply go to the following Microsoft web site:

http://www.microsoft.com/hardware/mouseandkeyboard/Download.mspx

Most of the downloads are available, including the fingerprint reader drivers.

DreamScene is available thru Windows Vista Updates..

2007-02-15T07:15:00.000-08:00

Atlast the long waiting DreamScene feature is available now!! Microsoft released it through Windows Updates. This is specific to Windows Vista Ultimate users.

This piece of software allows the Vista Ultimate users to setup a Video as the Desktop Background. These files play at 30fps. Even HD content is supported by DreamScene.

Also an important note to the Ultimate users:

Whenever a new Windows Ultimate Extra is ready for distribution by Microsoft, you will see the Ultimate Extra control panel inform you that there are new extras to download. Simply download and install the Extras and begin enjoying these exclusive software and services that give your Windows Vista experience an extra lift!

Windows Vista Labs - A Great Experience

2007-02-12T10:03:00.000-08:00

It was a great experience and I appreciate the support extended by everyone in Beijing. My special thanks go to Eddy, Nick, Maggie, and fellow MVPs (Jasper, Mark, and Rahul.)

Also, the new year gift that was given by the Chinese MVPs is good and memorable. My sincere thanks to every one.

Last but not the least, my thanks to Abhishek Kant, my MVP lead for providing me an opportunity to attend the training labs.

The Forbidden City.. an amazing gift to China from the Ming dynasty

2007-02-10T23:59:00.000-08:00

The Forbidden City was the Chinese imperial palace during the mid-Ming and the Qing Dynasties. The Forbidden City is located in the middle of Beijing, China. It is now known as the Palace Museum. Its extensive grounds cover 720,000 square meters (appx 124 acres). The Forbidden City has 800 buildings with 8,886 rooms.

The Forbidden City is listed by UNESCO as the largest collection of preserved ancient wooden structures in the world. The Forbidden City was declared a World Heritage Site in 1987 as the "Imperial Palace of the Ming and Qing Dynasties."

The Palace Museum in the Forbidden City should not be confused with the National Palace Museum in Taipei, Taiwan island. Both museums derive from the same institution, but they were split after the Chinese Civil War.

Been to Badaling Section of GWC..

2007-02-10T23:54:00.000-08:00

Badaling is 70 kilometers far from northwest of the Beijing City. Badaling is a rare ancient military defense project. The elevation of it is about 1,000 meters. The wall of Badaling has a total length of 3, 741 meters with an average height of 8 meters The highest part is 15 meters. The total area for a tour is 19, 000 square meters. The top of the wall can permit five horses to be ridden abreast.

This section of the Great Wall was made by huge bar stones. Some of the stones have a height of two meters with a weight of hundreds kilograms. The top floor of the Great Wall is paved with square bricks which made the floor very orderly and smooth. On the highest place, signal fire platforms were set to send warning signals in the ancient China.

Near Badaling, there is a large-scaled Great-Wall-of-China Museum as well as the Great Wall National Theater from which you can get a full and complete view of the Great Wall.

The Lama Temple in Beijing - It's a great temple

2007-02-07T20:12:00.000-08:00

Yes... The Lama temple in Beijing is great, which has all the Buddhas.. The Past, Present and Future Buddha.

The 26" buddha that was made with Sandal wood is an attraction and marvelous. Really one should visit this temple without fail.

Windows Vista Labs - Trip to Beijing, China

2007-02-06T16:05:00.000-08:00

I will be starting to China today to attend the Windows Vista Labs in Beijing (Yes.. the 2008 Olympic city). This is my first visit to China and hope I will enjoy my trip a lot. Also, I am in a plan to visit "Great wall of China", which is one of the seven wonders in the World. Infact, this is the first wonder I will be visiting..

Will post the updates soon.. :)

One more ViewLet on Windows Vista

2007-01-27T04:40:00.000-08:00

Enabling/Disabling User Account Control:

http://ragshyd.googlepages.com/Disabling_the_UAC.exe

I will be posting some more ViewLets in the coming weeks.. I will be travelling to China to attend the Vista Labs. May be in mid of Feb, you may see few more posts.

Some more new ViewLets on Windows Vista

2007-01-20T13:33:00.000-08:00

Setting up Password for the Guest User:

http://ragshyd.googlepages.com/setting_up_password_to_guest_user.exe

Parental Control:

http://ragshyd.googlepages.com/viewing_parental_control_logs.exe
http://ragshyd.googlepages.com/blocking_websites_using_parental_con.exe

Creating an User Account with Password Restriction (User Needs to enter a new password when he login for the first time in Vista):

http://ragshyd.googlepages.com/creating_a_password_restricted_user_.exe

New ViewLets on Windows Vista

2007-01-13T14:32:00.000-08:00

Creating a New System Restore point:

ht tp://ragshyd.googlepages.com/creating_system_restore_poing.exe

Deleting an User account:

http://ragshyd.googlepages.com/deleting_an_user_account.exe

IE (Icon) Missing:

http://ragshyd.googlepages.com/IE_missing.exe
http://ragshyd.googlepages.com/IE_missing2.exe

Restricting User Login Hours:

http://ragshyd.googlepages.com/Restrict_user_login_hours.exe

ViewLets on Windows Vista

2007-01-06T04:23:00.000-08:00

I am creating some ViewLets on Windows Vista for the novice and tyro users. Following are some:

Blocking Downloads in Vista - http://ragshyd.googlepages.com/Blocking_Downloads.exe

Changing the Desktop Background -
Procedure 1: http://ragshyd.googlepages.com/changing_desktop_bg1.exe
Procedure 2: http://ragshyd.googlepages.com/changing_desktop_bg3.exe
Procedure 3: http://ragshyd.googlepages.com/Changing_Windows_Desktop_Background2.exe

Creating an user account - http://ragshyd.googlepages.com/creating_an_user.exe

Even though it is easy to perform, their might be some users who appreciate my effort. Isn't it? :))

No Compatibility for Zune in Windows Vista..

2006-11-15T18:32:00.000-08:00

Microsoft already launched Zune in the US - A 30 GB digital music player that is available in black, white and brown colors. However, Zuine is not compatible with the new Vista operating system.

A patch or an update will be released soon enabling the player to be compatible in Vista very soon.
As Microsoft is set to launch Vista for business customers later this month, hope that the "Zune" compatible update or patch will be available before the release :)

Check this web site for more info on Zune - http://www.zunescene.com/

New Security Bulletins from Microsoft..

2006-11-14T18:46:00.000-08:00

Following new security bulletins have been released:

MS06-065: Vulnerability in Windows Object Packager Could Allow Remote Execution (924496)
MS06-064: Vulnerabilities in TCP/IP IPv6 Could Allow Denial of Service (922819)
MS06-063: Vulnerability in Server Service Could Allow Denial of Service and Remote Code Execution (923414)

KB Article on IE 7.0

2006-11-13T18:46:00.000-08:00

My first knowledgebase article on IE 7.0 has been published yesterday. Check it out:

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx/kb/555778/en-us

Enjoy your holidays with Zune - The first digital music player from Microsoft..

2006-09-29T06:33:00.000-07:00

Microsoft is planning to launch the first digital music player "Zune" on November 14 with a price tag equivalent to Apple iPod.

Users have to buy Microsoft credit cards instead of actual money or using their credit cards. The alternative is to pay a $14.99 monthly subscription to the Zune service, to download tonnes of songs. As mentioned in my earlier blogs, the downloaded songs can be sent to any other Zune user.

It is also likely to relase Zune accessories like AV cables and adaptors, cradles, dock, bags and "special" headphones.

Windows WebViewFolderIcon ActiveX vulnerability..

2006-09-29T00:36:00.000-07:00

Microsoft Security Bulletin have notified of vulnerability in Windows WebViewFolderIcon ActiveX control which contains an integer overflow vulnerability that could allow a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code.

Systems affected: Windows / Internet Explorer

Microsoft has not released any patch to mitigate the vulnerability. However, as a precautionary measure it is recommended not to open any unsolicited URLs, including those received in email, instant messages, web forums, or internet relay chat (IRC) channels and also do not Open Attachments in the mail from unknown Mail addresses.

Zero day attack - Now its the turn of powerpoint

2006-09-27T19:39:00.000-07:00

Not only Word and Excel, even now powerpoint has got the Zero-day attack. Microsoft warned of "limited zero-day attacks" that exploit a new flaw in PowerPoint. This attach will be carried out, if a user open a malicious PowerPoint file attached to an e-mail or otherwise provided to them by an attacker. Once user opens the file, the hole allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on a vulnerable computer. The flaw affects PowerPoint in Office 2000, Office XP and Office 2003 on Windows and Apple Computer's Mac OS X.

Microsoft has released a "critical" security fix for Windows on Tuesday. This update repairs a flaw in a Windows component called "vgx.dll.", which is to render vector images that gives more clarity pictures.

16GB CF Cards.. goodnews for those who want to take more pics :)

2006-09-27T00:20:00.000-07:00

SANDISK, the expert in tiny card maker has come up with two new CompactFlash memory cards, which can store 12GB and 16GB. It works at a speed of up to 20MB/s data transfer. This will be really useful for those, who like to have high resolution pictures with RAW (exif) data.

1GB microSD is available now..

2006-09-25T19:50:00.000-07:00

Kingmax Digital has released the first 1 Gig MicroSD card in the market. It is an ultra-small, removable flash memory card format, which is designed based on SanDisk's TransFlash card format. Because of the single level cell memory, the card will have much faster Read-Write speeds.

New version of ADOBE to hit the market sooon..

2006-09-20T23:54:00.000-07:00

ADOBE announced that it will be releasing the next version of its Acrobat document management software in November. Acrobat version 8.00 will have a new feature, using which the users can connect to a virtual meeting room for real-time Web conferencing with live audio and video.

Eventhough this is a new feature in Adobe document management software, ADOBE has released a virtual meeting room conferencing software long back with the name "Connect 1", which is now integrated with with new version. Apart from it, the major development is the new version will enable better exporting of PDF documents to other popular document formats.

New Zero day virus..

2006-09-19T22:42:00.000-07:00

An unpatched security bug in Internet Explorer has been identified, which will inject malicious software from rigged Web sites. Also, it was mentioned that some adult Web sites are among the first to exploit the IE vulnerability amd Microsoft plans to fix the flaw as part of its monthly patching cycle on Oct. 10, the software giant said in a security advisory.

The number of attacks may rise quickly. Hence, it is recommended to keep the security software updated and also take caution when browsing the Web.

The vulnerability lies in a Windows component called "vgx.dll." This component is meant to support Vector Markup Language documents in the operating system. VML is used for high-quality vector graphics on the Web.

The digital music entertainment revolution is just beginning...

2006-09-14T20:00:00.000-07:00

Yes.. with Microsoft's Zune media player - a 30GB digital media player, a music service, built-in FM tuner and a three inch screen.

It supports MP3, AAC, and WMA formats, and comes with a Wi-Fi connection that will let you send songs directly to other Zune users.

It also allows to play slideshows as you listen to music, plays WMV, MPEG-4, and H.264 videos.

New Security Bulletins

2006-09-12T20:32:00.000-07:00

Following are the new security bulletins released recently:

MS06-054: Vulnerability in Microsoft Publisher Could Allow Remote Code Execution (910729)
MS06-053: Vulnerability in Indexing Service Could Allow Cross-Site Scripting (920685)
MS06-052: Vulnerability in Pragmatic General Multicast (PGM) Could Allow Remote Code Execution (919007)

Norton AntiVirus 2007 and Norton Internet Security 2007 are gonna be available for the users soon..

2006-09-10T09:27:00.000-07:00

Symantec is going to release the next version of AntiVirus, and NIS soon. Norton AntiVirus 2007 protects against viruses,as usual and also this time it is going to detect the spyware and related risks.

Norton Internet Security 2007 is a suite which consists antivirus and anti-spyware protection and also a firewall.

Symantec is including a phishing shield also this time and also increasing the boot time, scan speed, and user interface launch speed.

NVIDIA introduced the next generation NVIDIA 7100 GS card

2006-09-07T07:38:00.000-07:00

NVIDIA introduced the next generation NVIDIA 7100 GS card....

The card will come with 128/256 MB of DDR 2 memory. In Turbo cache mode, the card will be able to address as much as 512 MB of memory, if the system has at least 1024 MB memory. This card physically has 256 MB of memory and can address an additional 256 MB from the System memory, which makes 512 MB on the whole. The card is based on G72 chip, and support the SLI mode which works with 128 bit bus.

The recently released Sec. Bulletins

2006-09-06T17:51:00.000-07:00

Following are the recently released security bulletins.. Microsoft is in a plan to release two more security bulletins in a near future to address issues in Word, and Excel that were found recently:

MS06-051: Vulnerability in Windows Kernel Could Result in Remote Code Execution (917422)
MS06-050: Vulnerability in Microsoft Windows Hyperlink Object Library Could Allow Remote Code Execution (920670)
MS06-049: Vulnerability in Windows Kernel Could Result in Elevation of Privilege (920958)

ATIs X1950 PRO.. a great deal!!!

2006-09-06T09:52:00.000-07:00

ATIs X1950 PRO is going to be the one good graphic card. The graphic card uses a 80 nanometre line and despite a quarter delay of the all 80 nanometre chips, it is finally shaping up for release of the RV570 based card.

This card will work at 600MHz core and 1400MHz memory and will support full blown 256-bit memory interface. ATI plans to launch the card very soon. This card will have 24 pixel Shader pipelines and will support cable less Crossfire.

Word flaw hit with zero-day attack

2006-09-05T21:19:00.000-07:00

Published on ZDNet News: September 5, 2006, 7:59 AM PT

An "extremely critical flaw" in Microsoft Word 2000 is currently being exploited by malicious attackers, which could lead to remote execution of code on a user's system, security researcher Secunia advised Tuesday.

The vulnerability affects systems running Windows 2000 and occurs when processing malicious Word 2000 documents, according to Secunia's security advisory.

Security company Symantec, which several days ago detected the exploit, Trojan MDropper.Q, noted that it uses a two-step attack.

Trojan MDropper.Q exploits the Microsoft Word vulnerability to drop another file, a new variant of Backdoor.Femo, according to a security advisory by Symantec.

"As with other recent (Microsoft) Office vulnerabilities, documents incorporating the exploit code must be opened with a vulnerable copy of Microsoft Word 2000 for it to work," Symantec's advisory stated. "As such, it makes the vulnerability unsuitable for the creation of self-replicating network worms."
Microsoft has not yet issued a patch for the vulnerability, and users are advised to forgo opening untrusted documents.

This latest exploit of an Office vulnerability follows on the heels of a similar malicious attack in June. In that particular case, users' systems would become infected when opening a malicious Excel document called "okN.xls." That malicious file contained the Trojan horse Mdropper.J, which then dropped the Booli.A program on a user's system. Booli.A would then download more malicious files to the user's PC.

BECAREFUL, while openings word attachments :)

Do you have some questions on Windows Vista Starter Edition??

2006-09-03T19:11:00.000-07:00

Hey.. if you have any doubts on Windows Vista Starter edition, see the link below.

Link - FAQs on Windows Starter Edition

Google Book Search is live now..

2006-09-02T15:06:00.000-07:00

Google's Book Search is live now.. You can now download the free PDFs of your favorite books online.. ofcourse, if they are out-of-copyright :)

Lots of popular classics and rare books that are no longer subject to copyright are available through Google's Book Search service. Also, users will also be able to print the books; However, books still under copyright will only have bibliographies and limited extracts available through the search service. Check it out:

http://books.google.com/

Firefox 2 - Beta Released

2006-08-31T20:37:00.000-07:00

Mozilla's latest beta release of the next Firefox browser is fully ready to download now. The new browser has several good features and improvements over the current version of Firefox (1.5.x) like glowing buttons in the user interface, a scrollable tab bar, a close tab button on each individual tab and improved RSS subscription options.

Whenever you click on an RSS feed, you can choose between adding it to a desktop reader, saving it as a Live Bookmark, or adding it to a web-based reader.

The mozilla look and feel seems to be a compete with the Microsoft Internet Explorer 7, the most notable ones built-in phishing protection and an integrated spell-checker for text forms.

Firefox 2 Beta 2 also cleans up some of the previous releases' annoying behaviors. There's a search engine manager for that little integrated search box that makes deleting engines as easy as adding them. There's also a new Windows installer that should resolve some of the installation difficulties reported by Windows users.
The new beta also has something called Session Restore, which will restore your open pages, tabs, and text in forms in case the browser crashes. If you want to try the beta, you can download it using the following links:

Windows:
http://www.mozilla.com/products/download.html?product=firefox-2.0b2&os=win&lang=en-US

Mac:
http://www.mozilla.com/products/download.html?product=firefox-2.0b2&os=osx&lang=en-US

Linux:
http://www.mozilla.com/products/download.html?product=firefox-2.0b2&os=linux&lang=en-US

New Radeon Xpress 1250 chipset from ATI..

2006-08-31T09:18:00.000-07:00

Radeon Xpress 1250 is the first Intel-based chipset to support ATI's Avivo display and video architecture.

With this technology now your PCs can produce "vibrant images" and "smooth video playback", and "true-to-life images". Might be targeted for the Windows Vista, as it can handle Windows new Aero Glass features with ease.

The card works with ATI's SB600 South Bridge support for up to 10 Hi-Speed USB 2.0 ports, 4 SATA II ports and with RAID capability.

A trial version of a free parental-control tool for Windows XP..

2006-08-30T20:44:00.000-07:00

Windows Live OneCare Family Safety Beta

Free software that helps you and your kids explore the Internet more safely. Family Safety helps you filter information based on each child's age to help protect them from stuff you don't want them to see. You can also limit searches, block or allow certain Web sites, and monitor what they're doing online. Check it out...

http://ideas.live.com/programpage.aspx?versionid=a78d3383-8c23-4b95-a56c-b9967270629e

No BlueRay and HD DVD Support in Windows Vista.. :(

2006-08-28T21:38:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, August 24th the APC Magazine has reported that the Windows Vista 32-bit OS doesnt come with Blu-Ray, and HD DVD playback support.

Initially Microsoft has scheduled Windows Vista to released in October and to able to meet the deadline, it seems that lots of pre decided features have not been included, that includes the Avalon presentation layer and WinFS file system.

At the Tech.Ed 2006 conference in Sydney, Microsoft Senior Program Manager Steve Riley revealed that only the 64-bit version of Vista will play protected video in either optical format at the full 1080p resolution.
However, still the both will be available as unsigned drivers. The hardware vendors, who does like to include the support may probably provide the required driver set to have these playback.

Volume Shadow Copy - Old wine in a new bottle :)

2006-08-27T20:52:00.000-07:00

Microsoft is providing the undelete system feature in Windows Vista too.. The technology, which is automatically switched on in Vista, is called 'volume shadow copy' and Vista users will see it appear under the 'previous versions' banner.

It maintains backups of older versions of files when you edit and save a new version, similar to .bak files. This feature is very helpful to retrive the files, in the case of accidental deletions.

This feature can easily be disabled via the system protection tab within the system properties control panel.

“Pay-As-You-Go” - Microsoft FlexGo technology

2006-05-30T20:49:00.000-07:00

You can start recharging your PC also just like your mobile phone :) Yes.. it's true.. MS launched “Pay-As-You-Go” PC with the name "FlexGo".

With this offer consumers has to pay a portion of the upfront cost to bring home a computer that is running Windows XP Home. Consumers pay off the remaining balance by purchasing from local vendors prepaid cards that activate the machine for a defined amount of time. If time runs out on the PC, it enters a "reserve tank," or limited access state, until additional time is added. Once the computer is paid off, the metering technology is deactivated and the consumer owns the machine outright.

The Friendly Character is no more in Office 2007..

2006-05-25T21:21:00.000-07:00

The Office Assistant is a small utility included in Microsoft Office starting with Office 97 is no more available in Office 2007. It is well known as clippy to the Office 97-2003 users providing various help terms and options. Microsoft thought of removing it in Office XP, but instead simply disabled it. It is also still available in Office 2003, though this version went a step further and did not install the Office Assistant by default. As of Office 2007, the Office Assistant feature had been removed completely due to its new help system.

Office 2007 BETA 2 Released

2006-05-23T19:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Microsoft released beta 2 of Office 2007. This beta version is available for all. To know the new features in Office 2007, download it at the following web site:

http://www.microsoft.com/office/preview/default.mspx

Microsoft and PC Manufacturers Make It Easier for Customers to Get Ready for Windows Vista

2006-05-20T09:40:00.000-07:00

Customers can prepare for the future with the help of new “Get Ready” Web site, Windows Vista Capable and Premium Ready PCs, and the Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor.

Read more @ Presspass

Want to have the Vista look and feel..

2006-05-12T23:08:00.000-07:00

If you are wondering on how Windows Vista look and feel will be, it is recommend to have the Vista Transformation Pack 4.0 installed. It has been just released which shows the transparent effects that Vista will have.

The Windows Transformation Pack also has a fairly effective uninstall program which is pretty important as the program has to fiddle with your system files. Download it & try it.

Microsoft Announces Spectacular Windows Vista Title Lineup

2006-05-09T17:48:00.000-07:00

Microsoft Corp. and top publishers worldwide unveiled the highly anticipated games lineup for the Microsoft® Windows® and Windows Vista™ operating systems. Microsoft also announced plans to bring the Xbox Live® game and entertainment network to the Windows platform.
Microsoft Game Studios and other leading publishers, including Electronic Arts Inc., NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc., THQ Inc. and Funcom, will provide groundbreaking gameplay experiences for Windows Vista gamers across numerous genres, including role-playing games (RPGs), first-person shooter (FPS), real-time strategy (RTS), massively multiplayer online (MMO) and simulation.

Read more @ Presspass

SocketShield.. Its good!!

2006-04-12T23:07:00.000-07:00

SocketShield is a new security application launched by Exploit Prevention Labs. It is designed to stop exploits and block malware.

The program is still in beta and is now available for public download. You can read all the features of SocketShield at the website http://www.socketshield.com. The SocketShield Beta is a free download. Try it!!

I've got the MVP award this year toooo...

2006-04-04T11:46:00.000-07:00

Hi.. I've been awarded the MVP award in Windows Shell this year tooo.. Thanks for everyone for the support, and the suggestions offerred... I should really thank Abhi and the core team of MUGH for their support.. Thanks every one..

Lets share our links..

2006-03-28T00:27:00.000-08:00

Hi All,

Hope you all know about my web site (www.whizatpc.com). I am now moving to a different server, where in I have more room to upload lot of things.. I am in a plan to add the following sections:

1. Tools, and Downloads for Windows XP by fellow MVPs.
2. Wallpapers.
3. More Windows XP web site links
4. Featured articles

If you are interested, post your comment. Also, if you have a web site do mention the same in your comment, so that I can add it to the links.. Also, provide small description about the web site.

In the mean time add my web site also to your links section :))

Microsoft Unveils Details for Ultra-Mobile Personal Computers

2006-03-10T19:32:00.000-08:00

The new mobile PC form factor, formerly codenamed “Origami,” provides full Windows functionality with an enhanced touch screen, pen and keyboard input was introduced by Microsoft on 9th March.

UMPCs are a new category of mobile PCs designed to support our increasing mobile lifestyles. They support mobile-tuned user interface features such as touch, pen and dedicated buttons as well as keyboards for convenient access to Windows-based applications on-the-go.

The extremely mobile nature of these devices, together with the richness of Windows PC technology, combine to create a powerful platform for mobile communications, entertainment, gaming and new scenarios such as location-based services as well. The "Origami" project is really our first step toward achieving a big vision.

Microsoft Enhances Windows Live Toolbar Capabilities With Acquisition of Onfolio

2006-03-08T22:28:00.000-08:00

Microsoft Corp. announced the acquisition of Onfolio Inc., a Internet research and information management provider.

Onfolio’s technology has been incorporated into the Windows Live™ Toolbar to enhance the way people discover, save and reuse their personal and professional Web research.

The new Onfolio Add-in for the Windows Live Toolbar beta will give people convenient ways to collect information online and organize it on their PCs just like the IE Favorites. People can harness this information by saving it onto their computer so that it can be easily accessed for use in documents, e-mail messages and blog postings. In addition, new online information is easily discovered and accessed through Onfolio’s integrated Really Simple Syndication (RSS) aggregator and reader. The Windows Live Toolbar beta with the Onfolio Add-in is available now and can be downloaded at http://ideas.live.com.

Communiqué is back..

2006-03-03T19:13:00.000-08:00

My newsletter, whizatpc Communiqué is back. I started posting the same on 1st of every month.

http://www.whizatpc.com/newsletter/mar06.html

Microsoft Anti Spyware is now Windows Defender

2006-02-24T15:20:00.000-08:00

Microsoft renamed Microsoft Anti Spyware as Windows Defender and released the Beta 2 for the Windows users. It is free for download that helps Windows users to protect the computer against pop-ups, slow performance and security threats caused by spyware and other potentially unwanted software.

However, the Windows One Care also have the inbuilt spyware check. If you have OneCare installed, you need not user the Defender program. The look and feel of defender is almost same as One Care.

But, One care gives complete protection and maintenance like virus scanning, firewalls, tune ups, file backups, etc.

Defender link

Get a free Web site, domain name, hosting and more for your small business

2006-02-17T13:32:00.000-08:00

Microsoft Office Live brings together everything you need to establish and run your business online for FREE. Market your business with a free company branded domain name (e.g., www.northwindtraders.com), Web site, company e-mail, Web site traffic reports, company e-mail, and more. You get easy-to-use tools plus a central place to store customer, project and company information - accessible anytime and almost anywhere with an Internet-connected PC.

Discover how, register today at http://www.officelive.com.

Microsoft Announces 2007 Microsoft Office Release

2006-02-17T02:28:00.000-08:00

Microsoft Corp. today announced the lineup of its upcoming 2007 Microsoft® Office system products, previously code-named Microsoft Office "12," including new and improved suites, applications, servers and services to be available by the end of 2006. The 2007 release is designed to increase individual impact, simplify collaboration, streamline business processes and content management, and improve business insight. The product and packaging lineup is grounded in a deep understanding of how customers' needs intersect with trends in the workplace. Microsoft will make available both enhanced and new packaging options to make it easier for customers to purchase the solutions that best meet their unique business needs.
Details about the 2007 Microsoft Office system products, including press releases and white papers on new Office products, application naming, suite packaging, server lineup, and U.S. estimated retail prices, can be found online at Press Kits and office Preview web sites.

Office 12 is gonna be available in the 2nd half of 2006....

2006-02-09T19:10:00.000-08:00

The next release of Microsoft Office - Office 12 may be available in the market for its users in the second half of 2006.

Keep on watching my blogs for more info :)

Relaunching Whizatpc communique

2006-02-08T23:25:00.000-08:00

Many of you already subscribed for the Whizatpc Communique, the monthly news letter that gives you lots of updates, tech bits, tips and tricks... n lots n lots..

The communique is scheduled to reach your inboxes on 1st of every month starting from March 1st.

I appreciate your comments/suggestions. Also, if you have a nice tip or solutions/articles.. do post me the same.. :)

www.merawindows.com - The community web site for Windows OS

2006-02-05T15:14:00.000-08:00

Hi,

www.merawindows.com is a Windows community web site. We are working to create the FIRST Windows Community in India that all Microsoft Windows Users can download content from and post their queries.
Please get registered yourself. Also, we need your participation in building this site. Do share your suggestions/ comments about the site by sending us the feedback by using the "Feedback Form" located in the web site.

New Articles in MS Kbase

2005-09-02T01:32:00.000-07:00

Today, 2 more new articles have been published in MS Knowledge base:

http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=555448 - The Automatically restart option is grayed out in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=555449 - "Shutdown" option missing from the Start Menu and Ctrl+Alt+Del dialog box

Your comments/suggestions are welcome.

CODE WARRIORS 2005 & SQLWIZ 2005

2005-09-01T17:46:00.000-07:00

Microsoft User Group, Hyderabad (MUGH) is hosting the following two events in Hyderabad very soon..

CODE WARRIORS 2005 & SQLWIZ 2005

Check out www.mugh.net for more information on these events.

2005-08-30T16:42:00.000-07:00

Another 3 more articles in MS Kbase. Check it out:

http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=555441 - Make your Windows XP PC more secured.
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=555443 - Removable storage devices are not recognized after installing Windows XP SP2
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=555444 - Disable system auto restart after installing Windows updates.

I appreciate your comments/suggestions.

3 more MS Kbase articles posted...

2005-08-29T22:58:00.000-07:00

Following 3 Knowledge base articles were posted today:

http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=555438 - Hide physical drives in Windows Explorer
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=555439 - Windows launches Search Companion window when opening any folder
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=555440 - Windows XP losing time

My First Article in MS KBase

2005-08-17T19:06:00.000-07:00

Hi,

Today my first knowledge base article in MS Kbase was posted. Check it out @

Restrict users from changing the wallpaper in Windows XP:

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;555429

August Communique

2005-08-11T17:12:00.000-07:00

The august communique has been sent to all the subscribers. You can access the same online @ http://www.whizatpc.com/communique.html. I've added the subscribe/unsubscribe option also to my web site.

Enjoy the updates!!!

Do you know what a "Kill bit" is??

2005-07-21T20:32:00.000-07:00

A tip of mine is posted in www.windowsnetworking.com web site, which explains you about "Kill bit". Check it out:

http://www.windowsnetworking.com/kbase/WindowsTips/
WindowsXP/AdminTips/IEandExplorer/Whatisakillbit.html

Technet Briefing - A great session

2005-05-13T06:26:00.000-07:00

Today, I've attended my first TechNet briefing session and it was very informative and helped me a lot in clearing lot of doubts on Windows security. The "Microsoft's Security Strategy" session by Detlef given a clear picture on how MS is working to improve the security enhancements in the up coming OS. Another presentor is Steve, who talked about "Importance of network protocols, and Security Policies". His session was awesome and quite informative. I came to a decision to be a part of these kinda of sessions further.

Finger print reader on the go..

2005-05-02T15:23:00.000-07:00

I've received my finger print reader a couple of days ago and successfully installed it on my Windows XP machine. It is very cute and awesome.

MVP Regional Summit - An amazing event

2005-04-28T05:11:00.000-07:00

I've attended the MVP regional summit that was held in Singapore and it's a great event. I learned lot of new things, and new technologies. Around 500 MVPs from 15 different countries participated in the event and every one is so proactive in sharing their ideas and tech know-how. In a word MVP regional summit is a great event.. Kudos to MS..

www.whizatpc.com in a new skin...

2005-04-05T04:16:00.001-07:00

I've changed the outlook of my web site www.whizatpc.com. Hope you like it. Any comments/suggestions are welcome..

I'm now Microsoft MVP

2005-04-05T00:26:00.000-07:00

On Apr 1st, I've received an email stating that I've been awarded the MVP award (Win Client) for my contributions. I'm very happy with this. Hip Hip hoorey.... :))))

DevCon 2005 is on 10th Apr

2005-04-03T07:14:00.000-07:00

The long waiting MUGH event - DevCon 2005 is on 10th Apr. Entry for the event is limited to registrants, so hurry up. Register yourself @ www.mugh.net/devcon

Have you heard of Windows XP Home/Professional Edition N?? A version without WMP..

2005-04-03T07:09:00.000-07:00

On March 28, Microsoft announced that it is going to adopt the European Commission’s designation for a name of the version of Windows without a media player. As part of the European Commission Decision issued on March 24, 2004, the company is required to make available a version of the Microsoft Windows operating system without Windows Media Player in Europe. Late last week the Commission instructed Microsoft to name this product "Windows XP Home Edition N" and "Windows XP Professional Edition N." Check this MS link for some more information:

http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/press/2005/mar05/03-28EUNameStatementPR.asp

Security Update For Windows Server 2003

2005-04-02T20:07:00.000-08:00

Microsoft has released the first service pack for its two-year old Windows Server 2003 that is heavily flavored with security enhancements designed to make it easier for corporate users to lock down their servers. The important features in Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1 (SP1), now available for download from Microsoft's Web site, is the Security Configuration Wizard, designed to reduce the product's "attack surface" by collecting data about specific server roles and then automatically blocking all services and ports that are not needed to carry out those roles.
SP1 also contains Microsoft's Windows Firewall that permits network wide control though Group Policy.
Other security improvements in the release include Internet Information Services 6.0 Auditing, which allows administrators to better identify potential malicious users in case a data store becomes corrupted. The company has also added Network Access Quarantine Control components that let administrators isolate out-of-date virtual private network assets.
Separately, Microsoft announced on Thursday that it will make the first Service Pack available for its Small Business Server within the next 60 days. That package will roll up all the latest service packs and updates available for the product, including built-in and customized integration capabilities that make installing the product less complex.

Making blogging mobile

2005-04-01T03:05:00.000-08:00

The next big thing in blogging may just be the ability to blog from your mobile phone, cooooool.. Intercasting is providing this feature very soon to the mobile users..

It is gonna release an application, called Rabble, that will enable users to blog directly from a cell phone. Check out this article for more information.

MUGH is gonna host DevCon 2005

2005-03-14T03:50:00.000-08:00

MUGH core team has announced that it is gonna host the Developers Conference 2005 on 2nd Apr'2005. Its really gonna a big event for the developers.. Watch out my blog for more news..

Wanna know the specs of all the Intel processors?

2005-03-11T20:27:00.000-08:00

A couple of days ago, I thought of upgrading my PC and had a glimpse on all the Intel based processors available in the market. I was not able to find the entire specs of the processors available from the retailer. Atlast I've asked my friend (google) to assist me and find this link, which may help you also further:

http://processorfinder.intel.com/scripts/default.asp?CHRID=94

If you are looking for the AMD processor, check this link:

http://www.thedigerati.us/info/amdcpuchart.html#athmp

Microsoft to acquire Groove Networks

2005-03-11T14:20:00.000-08:00

Microsoft Corp. announced today that it will acquire Groove Networks Inc., a leading provider of collaboration software for the "virtual office." One more added to Microsoft wallet :-)
Read out this article for more information:

http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/press/2005/mar05/03-10GroovePR.asp

MSN and Logitech Team Up to Deliver Integrated Video and Audio Service for MSN Messenger Customers

2005-03-10T06:13:00.000-08:00

MSN and Logitech today announced at CeBIT 2005 an extension of their global relationship, through which MSN will launch a high-quality, integrated video and audio service powered by Logitech that enables customers to see and talk to friends and family over the Internet. The new service will be available when it is released this spring to MSN® Messenger 7.0 customers.
Read about this announcement @
http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/press/2005/mar05/03-09LogitechPR.asp

IE7 for Windows XP SP2 users sooooon...

2005-02-16T04:35:00.000-08:00

Microsoft is gonna release IE 7 for Windows XP SP2 users. I heard that this version supports not only MS-specific technologies, but open standards such as:

- CSS

- XHTML

- PNG

- SVG

- MathML

Here's the press release of Bill Gates' announcement this morning:
http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/press/2005/feb05/02-15RSA05KeynotePR.asp

IEEE To Amend Wireless LAN Standards

2005-02-15T11:27:00.000-08:00

The IEEE has begun work on two amendments to the IEEE 802.11 standard for wireless local area networks.

IEEE P802.11u, "Wireless LAN Medium Access Control (MAC) and Physical Layer (PHY) Specifications: IEEE 802.11 Interworking with External Networks," will harmonize the ability of IEEE 802.11 equipment and external networks to work together. The common wireless interworking framework it will provide will include protocol exchanges across the air interface and primitives to support the higher-layer interactions involved. IEEE P802.11v, "Wireless LAN Medium Access Control (MAC) and Physical Layer (PHY) Specifications: IEEE 802.11 Wireless Network Management," will create a complete and coherent upper layer interface for managing IEEE 802.11 devices in wireless networks. It will allow stations to perform management functions, such as monitoring, configuring and updating, in either a central or distributed manner through a layer 2 mechanism. The standards are developed by the IEEE 802.11 Working Group, sponsored by the IEEE 802 LAN/MAN Standards Committee.

This month Communique

2005-02-14T09:16:00.000-08:00

Hi,

If any one want to access the whizatpc ezine (Communique), go to the following link:

www.whizatpc.com/newsletter/communique.html

You can also access the old Communiques @ www.whizatpc.com/newsletter.html

I'm sure that you can be with the Technology ;-)

New knowledge articles in whizatpc.com

2005-02-14T09:15:00.000-08:00

I've added the following two new articles on Windows XP MCE 2005:

KA10171 - "Disk is full. TV can't play because the hard drive disk you chose in settings is full" error in MCE 2005
KA10172 - No display on the TV while viewing Recorded TV videos (MCE 2005)

HP LightScribe Technology

2005-02-08T09:12:00.000-08:00

Burn, flip, burn - yep that's true. HP has introduced a new CD burning technology called LightScribe. Now you can burn your own silkscreen-quality CD/DVD labels using LightScribe Direct Disc Labeling technology. You can create customized laser-etched labels using the same laser that burns the data, right inside the CD/DVD drive.

Explore the new world of disc labeling with LightScribe technology. Click here.

New worm via MSN Messenger

2005-01-25T01:02:00.000-08:00

A new computer worm is using Microsoft's MSN Messenger instant message network to spread on the Internet, according to antivirus software companies.

Bropia.A spreads by sending copies of itself to an MSN Messenger user's instant message (IM) contacts. When the worm is launched, it installs a Trojan horse program, Rbot, on vulnerable machines, according to alerts from F-Secure Corp. and Symantec Corp.

Windows machines running MSN Messenger and have a Messenger window open on the desktop are vulnerable to infection. F-Secure and Symantec rated Bropia a low threat, based on the number of reports of infected machines, and issued virus definition updates that allow their products to spot the new IM worm.

When the worm file is launched, Bropia copies itself to the hard drive of the infected machine, disguised as a file with one of several names, including:"Drunk_lol.pif", "Webcam_004.pif", "sexy_bedroom.pif", "naked_party.pif" or "love_me.pif."

The worm also disables a user's right mouse button to prevent users from accessing context sensitive menus, and to alter the Windows sound mixer volume settings, F-Secure said.
The Trojan horse program that is installed by Bropia, which F-Secure referred to as Rbot, and Symantec as W32.Spybot.worm, opens a back door into infected Windows systems and has features that log user keystrokes, collect vital system information and relay spam, F-Secure said.

Recent MS Knowledge Base Articles on MCE 2005

2005-01-21T01:52:00.000-08:00

Following are the new MS KB articles on MCE 2005:

How to configure a computer to receive Remote Assistance offers in Windows XP and Windows 2003

How to troubleshoot missing network connections icons in Windows Server 2003 and in Windows XP

You receive a "Installation of Command Administration UI failed" error message when you try to install Windows Services for UNIX 3.5 on a computer that is running Windows XP Service Pack 2

Say Goodbye to spyware….

2005-01-08T17:48:00.000-08:00

Microsoft acquired an AntiSpyware company called “Giant AntiSpyware” recently and launched the beta version for their customers. To download a copy, click this link. Hope Microsoft includes this powerful tool in the next Operating system release..

Added 4 more articles on Windows XP

2004-12-10T23:10:00.000-08:00

www.Whizatpc.com has been updated with 4 more new articles on Windows XP under /Kbase section:

KA10166 - Change the Guest username
KA10167 - Unable to open the installed software due to restrictions
KA10168 - Disable Last user login name display
http://www.whizatpc.com/kbase/ka10169.html

New knowledge articles in my web site..

2004-11-09T06:32:00.000-08:00

I have added the following Kbase articles on Windows XP SP2 under \kbase section to my web site (www.whizatpc.com.)

KA10159 - Modem fails to connect to ISP after upgrading to Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2
KA10160 - How to make the login passwords for all users to be alpha-numeric in Windows XP
KA10161 - Windows XP may display an error even though the correct password is entered
KA10162 - Windows XP Setup is incompatible with this version of Windows. For more information, contact Microsoft - error while installing SP2 on HP PCs
KA10163 - Picture position on the monitor or size of the Desktop icons may be changed after installing Windows XP SP2
KA10164 - Installation procedure stops responding when trying to install any programs or Windows Updates after installing Windows XP Service Pack 2
KA10165 - How to remove the left side Common Tasks pane from the Desktop?

My web site in Microsoft Windows XP Related Communities

2004-10-12T01:40:00.000-07:00

Microsoft has listed my web site in Windows XP Related Communities. Check it out..

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone/relatedsites.mspx

Hip Hip Hooooorey!!

ATI started using Microsoft's .NET Framework..

2004-09-17T06:10:00.000-07:00

The latest ATI drivers require Microsoft's .NET 1.1 Framework to be installed. If the PC does not have the .NET 1.1 Framework installed, the installer will not work.

Also, the driver is a single package that has drivers for RADEON 9500, RADEON 9600, RADEON 9700, RADEON 9800, RADEON X300, RADEON X600, or RADEON X800 Series of products.

Users can download the drivers from this link.

Click this link to download .NET Framework from Microsoft.

Just visiting a website could be enough to give you a virus..

2004-09-15T13:50:00.000-07:00

Microsoft has published a patch for a major security flaw in its software's handling of the JPEG graphics format and urged customers to use a new tool to locate the many applications that are vulnerable.

The critical flaw has to do with how Microsoft's operating systems and other software process the widely used JPEG image format and could let attackers create an image file that would run a malicious program on a victim's computer as soon as the file is viewed. Because the software giant's Internet Explorer browser is vulnerable, Windows users could fall prey to an attack just by visiting a website that has affected images.

The severity of the flaw had some security experts worried that a virus that exploits the issue may be on the way.

The flaw affects various versions of at least a dozen Microsoft software applications and operating systems, including Windows XP, Windows Server 2003, Office XP, Office 2003, Internet Explorer 6 Service Pack 1, Project, Visio, Picture It and Digital Image Pro. The software giant has a full list of affected applications in the advisory on its website:

http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/bulletin/MS04-028.mspx

Windows XP Service Pack 2, which is still being distributed to many customers' computers, is not vulnerable to the flaw.

The JPEG processing flaw enables a program hidden in an image file to execute on a victim's system. The flaw is unrelated to another image vulnerability found in early August. That vulnerability, in a common code library designed to support the Portable Network Graphics, or PNG, format, affected applications running on Linux, Windows and Apple's Mac OS X. Both the JPEG, which stands for Joint Photographic Experts Group, and PNG formats are commonly used by websites. Visit:

http://www.microsoft.com/security/bulletins/200409_jpeg.mspx

Microsoft has added 163 new KB articles..

2004-09-15T10:57:00.000-07:00

Microsoft has added 163 new KB articles on Windows XP SP2. To have the complete list of articles along with the description, visit:

http://www.whizatpc.com/XP2%20Articles.htm

Microsoft will sell songs online

2004-09-14T14:29:00.000-07:00

Microsoft Corporation, hoping to take a bite out of Apple Computer Inc's highly popular online music service (iTunes), is gearing up to launch its own web site for selling songs over the Internet. Read the complete article @ http://news.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=15508

New knowledge articles in my web site..

2004-09-05T15:23:00.000-07:00

I have added the following Kbase articles on Windows XP SP2 under \kbase section to my web site (www.whizatpc.com.)

KA10143 - Unable to install Service Pack 2 on a system, which has a beta or release version.
KA10144 - WMV video file is opening in Internet Explorer as a text file rather than Media Player after installing Windows XP SP2.
KA10145 - “Service Pack 2 Setup could not verify the integrity of the file. Make sure that the Cryptographic service is running on this computer” error.
KA10146 - Windows Media Player 9 is unable to play music, after uninstalling Windows XP SP2
KA10149 - Unable to copy files/folders to removable storage media (Thumb Drives, Pen Drives, Memory Cards) after installing Windows XP Service Pack 2.
KA10150 - Unable to invoke Windows Auto Update after installing Windows XP Service Pack 2
KA10151 - Disable auto restart after Windows update
KA10152 - Disable Add-on Crash Detection feature
KA10153 - Disable Updating Add-ons automatically
KA10154 - Windows update is restarting the PC after 5 minutes to install the updates.
KA10155 - Installing Minor Updates Automatically
KA10156 - Disable Windows Update Filtering Option
KA10157 - Disable "Data Execution Prevention" dialog box

Microsoft released its first hotfix for Windows XP SP2..

2004-09-03T15:16:00.000-07:00

Microsoft has issued a hotfix for Windows XP SP2 to solve a problem about which many users have complained: programs that attempt to connect to loopback addresses other than 127.0.0.1 get error messages. A lot of VPN users have run into this problem, which I've read was introduced last-minute, post-RC2. Of course, it's a hotfix so it's only sort-of supported. They're going to have to come up with a more formal solution.

FCC Report And Order To Create New 2495-2690 MHz Band

2004-08-05T07:24:00.000-07:00

The FCC has recently issue a Report and Order (R&O) which will restructure the 2500-2690 MHz Band to create two new services: BRS (Broadband Radio Service) and EDS (Educational Broadband Service).

As part of the R&O, the FCC will adopt a band plan that restructures the 2500-2690 MHz band into upper and lower-band segments for low-power operations (UBS and LBS, respectively), and a mid-band segment (MBS) for high-power operations. By grouping high and low-power spectrum uses into separate portions of the band, this band plan creates opportunities for spectrum-based systems or devices to migrate to compatible bands based on marketplace forces, and reduces the likelihood of interference caused by incompatible uses.

The new band plan also provides new incentives for the development of low-power cellularized broadband uses of the 2500-2690 MHz band, which have been thwarted by the legacy band structure. The 2495-2500 MHz band will be designated for use in connection with the 2500-2690 MHz band. The FCC will implement geographic area licensing for all licensees in the band.

You can check the following web site for detailed instructions:

http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/FCC-04-135A1.pdf

A new storage gadget..

2004-08-04T01:53:00.000-07:00

SanDisk Corporation has introduced a new line of fingernail-sized removable Flash memory cards that it hopes will become a de facto industry standard for providing user-upgradable internal as well as external storage in the coming wave of smartphones. "TransFlash" cards will debut in smartphones from Motorola. ...

Windows XP Gaming Advisor

2004-08-03T03:50:00.000-07:00

Good news for Gaming users...

Microsoft has come up with an online utility to check if a game can run in the computer. This online utility checks the games minimum requirements with the system's resources and informs if the games will work or not. This utility only works for Windows XP. This utility can be found in the following web link:

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/games/gameadvisor/default.mspx

My 1st Blog

2004-07-26T09:26:00.000-07:00

Hi,

This is my first post. I would like to post information on new technologies, updates in this blog. Hope you enjoy the postings.. :-)