tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82511295568128768002024-03-12T21:59:11.438-07:00Windows XP n' TricksWindows xp | registry | Backup | Start | Hack | speed up | Internet explorer | control panel | Icon | Shortcut | shutdown | startup | Broadband | Dial up | Games | data | my documents | my computer | IP address | dos | command | install | uninstall | server | setup | themes | problems | tweaks | Easter Eggs | Bandwidth | latest | format | click | Enter | IE | Screensaver | boot |Kiranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08494669085436055959noreply@blogger.comBlogger291125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-19503982539472892972011-08-18T22:36:00.000-07:002011-08-18T23:10:22.077-07:00How to reinstall Windows xp<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UiIzk_8zoqA/Tk38JUtSoLI/AAAAAAAAAKY/ipu9sfwFiv8/s1600/windows-xp-installtion.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UiIzk_8zoqA/Tk38JUtSoLI/AAAAAAAAAKY/ipu9sfwFiv8/s320/windows-xp-installtion.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642443145272795314" /></a>
<br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Reinstalling Windows XP </span></span></b><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">is not a bigger task, until and unless you know the exact step how to do it properly. Here we will try to explain it in simple steps “How to reinstall windows XP”.</span></span><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"></span></span><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
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<br /></span></span><ol><li><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">- First of all copy all you required downloaded program, serial numbers, necessary documents, or any other program to an external hard drive. (Files don’t need to be copied at it won’t get deleted)</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">- Don’t forget to copy content from “C:\Documents and Settings” folder to other removable USB storage or CD, as those data will be erased.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">- Insert Windows CD that came along with the system and reboot the system, If you didn’t receive CD with your system, the XP installation files might be hiding on your hard drive. To access them, press the indicated keys while you reboot, if you don’t find a way please contact your PC manufacturers.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">-After rebooting, a message will come “Press Any Key to Boot from CD”, press any key to continue to installation procedure.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">- After continuing, Make your selection and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation procedure, Its always better to install a fresh copy without formatting the Hard disk thus preventing your files from getting deleted.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">- Once the installation is finished, you have to reconfigure your network connections, reinstall device drivers and update XP manually.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">- To configure to your new Internet connection, Go to My network places>New Connection and follow prompts with details received from your ISP.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">- Check if any driver need to be updated , Right click on My computer select Properties> hardware > Device manager and look for entries with yellow mark, they need to be updated. Go to proper manufacturer site to get the latest downloads.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">- Next we are going to updates Windows XP, go to control panel> Windows Update, and follow the prompt in order to update your XP copy with latest security updates. </span></span></li><li><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">- Once done above steps, you can paste your backup data on “C:\Document and Settings” to restore the contents.</span></span></li></ol><p><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span></span><p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">If you got any problem with installation feel free to ask question</span></span></b></p> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com72tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-76454780050120097522009-09-27T11:16:00.000-07:002009-09-27T11:20:32.045-07:00Hide Hard Disk Drive in Windows VistaIt is possible to hide a hard drive letter using Windows Vista, preventing it from showing up in applications and Windows Explorer. However, this will not prevent you from access files from it manually (by browsing directly to it by typing "D:" for example). This can be useful to hide files quickly and easily.<br /><br />To being, load the Registry Editor from the run box (Press <strong>WINDOWS KEY + R </strong>to access this) by typing "<strong>regedit</strong>" and clicking <strong>OK</strong>:<a name='more'></a><br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/HideDrive.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Once this loads, browse to the following registry key on the left hand side:<br /><br /><strong>HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Curre ntVersion\Policies\Explorer </strong><br /><br />Then, right click on the white space in the right hand side and select <strong>New > DWORD (32-bit)</strong> Value, and call it "<strong>NoDrives</strong>":<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/HideDrive2.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Double click on "NoDrives" to enter a <strong>Decimal</strong> value. This value depends on the drives you wish to hide, and is created by adding the numbers for each drive you wish to hide from the list below. Click <strong>OK</strong> once you have entered this number.<br /><br />For example, to hide drive D you would enter a decimal value of 8. To hide both drives D and E, you would enter a decimal value of 24 (8+16):<br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/HideDrive3.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br /><br /><br /><blockquote>A = 1<br />B = 2<br />C = 4<br />D = 8<br />E = 16<br />F = 32<br />G = 64<br />H = 128<br />I = 256<br />J = 512<br />K = 1024<br />L = 2048<br />M = 4096<br />N = 8192<br />O = 16384<br />P = 32768<br />Q = 65536<br />R = 131072<br />S = 262144<br />T = 524288<br />U = 1048576<br />V = 2097152<br />W = 4194304<br />X = 8388608<br />Y =16777216<br />Z = 33554432<br />All drives = 67108863</blockquote><br /><br />Once you restart your computer, the selected drives should be hidden. If you wish to remove the hidden drives, browse to the NoDrives registry value and delete it.<br /><br />As with all registry modifications, care should be taken to ensure that these steps are followed exactly. You should make a backup of your system before any major changes should things go wrong.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-38188701533912093692009-09-17T09:53:00.000-07:002009-09-17T09:57:41.460-07:00Deleting Temporary Files in Windows VistaWindows Vista includes a very useful "Disk Cleanup Tool" which does exactly as the name suggests, and allows you to remove a wide variety of temporary and cached files that you no longer need. Most applications will automatically remove the temporary files once you have closed the software down, but in some cases (such as crashes or bad programming), trails can be left behind. Removing these files will create extra diskspace and keep your system in good condition.<br /><br />To begin, load the Run box by pressing <strong>WINDOWS KEY + R</strong>, then type "<strong>cleanmgr</strong>" and click <strong>OK</strong>:<a name='more'></a><br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/deletetemporaryfiles.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Now, select the drive you wish to clean up. Normally the "C:" is your primary drive where temporary files will be located. Click <strong>OK</strong> once you have done this:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/deletetemporaryfiles2.jpg" alt="" /><br />It may take a few moments while the cleanup software scans your drive for files that are safe to remove:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/deletetemporaryfiles3.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />You can then select all of the temporary file types you wish to remove. It is not normally worth removing Image Thumbnail files as these will just be recreated next time you view a photo directory. Once you have selected the file types you want to remove, click <strong>OK</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/deletetemporaryfiles4.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />You will be prompted to confirm you are sure about the deletion. If you are sure, click <strong>Delete Files</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/deletetemporaryfiles5.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />The Disk Cleanup Tool will then remove the selected files and close, successfully reclaiming some diskspace:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/deletetemporaryfiles6.jpg" alt="" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-22294446670009580842009-09-17T09:49:00.000-07:002009-09-17T09:53:06.302-07:00Select Multiple Files with Checkboxes in Windows VistaThere are many occasions when you will want to select multiple files in Windows Explorer view when the normal "drag and highlight" can't cope with the spread of files.<br /><br />The usual method of selecting these multiple files is to hold down <strong>CTRL </strong>and then single click on each file you wish to select.<br /><a name='more'></a><br />However, Windows Vista has introduced a much easier and more convenient method of selecting multiple files.<br /><br />To enable this, load Windows Explorer by pressing <strong>WINDOWS KEY + E</strong> or going to <strong>Start Menu > Computer</strong>. Now, click on the <strong>Organise</strong> button, then <strong>Folder and Search Options</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/multiplefiles.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Then click the <strong>View</strong> tab and tick <strong>Use Check Boxes to Select Items</strong>, followed by <strong>OK</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/multiplefiles2.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />When you return to the Explorer window, you will be able to select each item by single clicking on it:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/multiplefiles3.jpg" alt="" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-53925623488849391772009-09-17T09:43:00.000-07:002009-09-17T09:49:14.542-07:00Automatic Backups in Windows VistaWindows Vista includes an option to back up documents, photos and several other file types automatically, on a schedule you select. However, you can't select to backup your entire PC on a regular basis by default.<br /><br />If you have a NAS drive or 2nd hard drive, it would be ideal to be able to automatically backup your computer should the worse happen. Thankfully, you can use the command line interface and the "Task Scheduler" to create an automated backup solution without any other software. This will only work with Ultimate, Business or Enterprise editions of Vista in Administrator mode.<a name='more'></a><br /><br />To begin, load the Task Scheduler by starting <strong>taskschd.msc </strong>from the run box (press <strong>WINDOWS KEY + R</strong> to load this):<br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/automaticbackups.jpg" alt="" /><br />Once the Task Scheduler has loaded, click <strong>Create Basic Task</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/automaticbackups2.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Now, enter a name and an optional description for your automated backup script:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/automaticbackups3.jpg" alt="" /><br />You can now choose the intervals at which you want your backup to run (weekly or monthly would be sensible, depending on how often you need backups). Click <strong>Next </strong>when you are done:<br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/automaticbackups4.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Select a time of day for the script to start based on your interval selection, then click <strong>Next</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/automaticbackups5.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Now, select <strong>Start a Program</strong> and click <strong>Next</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/automaticbackups6.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />For the "Program/Script" box, enter the following command:<br /><br /><strong>wbadmin</strong><br /><br />Then, the following arguments to the next box:<br /><br /><strong>start backup -allcritical -backuptarget:d: -include:c: -quiet</strong><br /><br />This example argument assumes you are backing up the entire C: and storing the backup on the D:. You can chance the storage paths by editing the values above. Once you are done, click <strong>Next</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/automaticbackups7.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />This final screen lets you confirm the backup script details. If everything appears correct, click <strong>OK</strong>:<br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/automaticbackups8.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />When the script starts, a command box similar to the one below will load. This will show you the progress of the backup and close automatically once complete. All of the backups will be stored in a "WindowsImageBackup" folder on the backup drive you selected, should you need to restore the computer using the Vista installation disk:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/automaticbackups9.jpg" alt="" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-39908508073358514832009-09-17T08:59:00.000-07:002009-09-17T09:42:27.553-07:00Windows Vista Disk ManagerWindows XP came with a reasonable partition manager, however it didn't let you resize partitions like the new Vista version can do. The new options of shrink and extend allow you to resize active partitions, something that required 3rd party software until now.<br /><br />To load this application, run <strong>compmgmt.msc</strong> from the command line and select Disk Management from the left hand menu.<a name='more'></a><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/partitionmanager.jpg" alt="" /><br />Not only can you format, delete and resize partitions but you can also change drive letters with a few clicks. If you install a new DVD drive at a later date but want to rename the drive letter, simply right click on the drive and select "Change Drive Letter and Paths" and then click change. From this menu you can pick another available drive letter.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-44128855078963885302009-09-06T09:37:00.000-07:002009-09-06T09:52:24.495-07:00Change Windows Vista PasswordMost users will be required to log on to Windows Vista with a password each time they start their PC, allowing many different users to each have a unique login username and storage area.<br /><br />If you wish to change your username at some point, go to the control panel by clicking the <strong>Start Menu</strong> and then <strong>Control Panel</strong>:<a name='more'></a><br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/changevistapassword1.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Then click User<strong> Accounts and Family Safety</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/changevistapassword2.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Then select <strong>Change your Windows password</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/changevistapassword3.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Then click <strong>Change your password</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/changevistapassword4.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Now, enter your old password, followed by your new password (twice) and then click <strong>Change Password</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/changevistapassword5.jpg" alt="" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-54786471244883866332009-09-06T09:29:00.000-07:002009-09-06T09:36:43.720-07:00Disable User Access Control in Windows VistaWindows Vista introduced the User Access Control (UAC) feature to improve security for the end user, however if you are an experienced power-user it is quite likely that you find UAC extremely annoying.<br /><br />Fortunately, disabling it is very straight forward (although I would not recommend doing this unless you are aware of the consequences).<br /><br />First, load the MS config utility by typing "<strong>msconfig</strong>" in the run box (Press <strong>WINDOWS KEY + R</strong> to access this) then click <strong>OK</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/disableuac1.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Once MSConfig is loaded, click on the <strong>Tools</strong> menu then select <strong>Disable UAC</strong> in the menu then click <strong>OK</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/disableuac2.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />This will then run a script to disable UAC, which requires a restart to complete. If you wish to re-enable UAC, simply repeat the above steps but click <strong>Enable UAC</strong> instead.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-51871911976751309552009-09-06T09:28:00.001-07:002009-09-06T09:28:48.059-07:00Windows Vista Password ExpiredYou may find when using some editions of Windows Vista that your password expires and you are required to change it. This problem will keep re-occurring until you change your account profile to prevent password expiration.<br /><br />To do this, start <strong>lusrmgr.msc</strong> from the run box (Press <strong>WINDOWS KEY + R</strong> to access this):<a name='more'></a><br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/passwordexpired1.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Once the Local User Manager has loaded, click <strong>Users</strong> in the left column and then double click your username in the main window:<br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/passwordexpired2.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Now, tick the <strong>Password Never Expires</strong> box followed by <strong>OK</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/passwordexpired3.jpg" alt="" /><br />In future, you password will not expire. Allowing you to log on without needed to change your password again.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-38768897486403532042009-09-06T08:47:00.000-07:002009-09-06T08:59:38.912-07:00Lock Windows Vista from Shortcut IconLock Windows Vista from Shortcut IconLocking Windows Vista is a good way to secure your PC when you leave your computer for a while (especially in an office environment). Normally you can lock Vista by clicking on the padlock icon on the start menu or by pressing <strong>WINDOWS KEY + L</strong>. However, you can easily add an icon to the desktop to perform this same task.<a name='more'></a><br /><br />First, right click on the desktop and select <strong>New</strong> then <strong>Shortcut</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/lockvista1.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Now, enter "<strong>rundll32.exe user32.dll, LockWorkStation</strong>" into the text box then click <strong>Next</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/lockvista2.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />You can then enter a title for the icon and click <strong>Finish</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/lockvista3.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Your icon will now be placed on the desktop, and double clicking it will lock your PC:Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-10600589695471100992009-09-06T08:27:00.000-07:002009-09-06T08:47:45.290-07:00Password Protect Folder in Windows VistaAlthough Vista allows you to encrypt files and folders using the Windows file security system. However if you wish to protect your files, you will need to have a Business or Ultimate edition of Vista. You will not be prompted for a password each time you access the file, only when you log on to your user account. This user account has the decryption key associated with it, allowing you access to the data.<br /><br />To begin, right click the folder you wish to encrypt and select <strong>Properties</strong>: <a name='more'></a><br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/passwordprotect.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Then, click the <strong>Advanced</strong> button:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/passwordprotect2.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Now tick <strong>Encrypt Contents</strong> to Secure Data and then click <strong>OK</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/passwordprotect3.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />If you encrypted a folder you will be asked if you wish to also secure the files/sub-folders within this. To do this, ensure <strong>Apply Changes to this folder, subfolders and files</strong> is selected and click <strong>OK</strong><br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/passwordprotect4.jpg" alt="" /><br />You have now successfully encrypted your files. If this is the first time you have done this you may be prompted to backup the security key used to decrypt the files. If you do not back this up you will not be able to access your files if the key is lost or damaged on your PC.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-41556533494069919232009-09-06T08:23:00.000-07:002009-09-06T08:27:04.575-07:00Windows Vista Automatic Windows LogonIf you are the sole user of your computer it may be that you don't wish to log on with a password each time you turn your PC on. Although this could be a security risk if other people have access, plenty of people did this before Vista.<br /><br />To disable the log on screen, run <strong>netplwiz</strong> from the command line to enter the User Accounts dialog box. Click on the username you wish to automatically log on to Windows and then untick the "users must enter a username and password to use this computer" box.<a name='more'></a><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/logon1.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />You will then be prompted to enter the password of this user twice, allowing Vista to confirm the password and bypass the logon screen in future.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/logon2.jpg" alt="" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-9419345687510505152009-09-06T08:16:00.000-07:002009-09-06T08:17:36.709-07:00Windows Vista Error Code 80073712You may experience Windows Vista error code 80073712 (or 0x80073712)when you try to use Windows Update. This error can occur when the windows update files are corrupt. <br /><br />To fix this, run the following command from the run window (Press <strong>WINDOWS KEY + R</strong>):<a name='more'></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><blockquote>chkdsk c: /f</blockquote><br /><br />This will scan and fix and errors, but will require your PC to be rebooted in the process.<br /><br />Once you are back in Windows, copy the Vista setup CD to a directory on your hard drive. From here, run the installation and choose "update". This will install Vista over the top of the current installation and fix any corrupt files.<br /><br />It is recommended that you make a backup of any important data, as if this last step is performed incorrectly or goes wrong then you may lose your files.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-28789960581379574322009-09-06T08:15:00.000-07:002009-09-06T08:16:08.836-07:00No Audio Output Device Installed In Windows VistaSome users have been experiencing problems with a "No Audio Output Device Installed" error when trying to play music, or when hovering the mouse over the speaker icon in the system tray. You may get a white X in a red circle to indicate this error.<br /><br />Go to the device manager by pressing <strong>WINDOWS KEY + R</strong> to go to the run menu, and then run "<strong>devmgmt.msc</strong>".<br /><a name='more'></a><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/nosounddevice1.jpg" alt="" /><br />From here, select your malfunctioning audio device(s) and make a note of the driver name. Then, right click on it and select<strong> Uninstall</strong>. This will remove the audio drivers from your system.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/nosounddevice2.jpg" alt="" /><br />Once this is done, re-load the drivers for your sound card from the CD your manufacturer gave you with your PC or sound device. If you cannot find this, search for the driver on the manufacturers website using the driver name that has been written down.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-21805171231654951752009-09-06T08:02:00.001-07:002009-09-06T08:02:18.520-07:00Disable Automatic Restart in Windows VistaWindows Vista automatically restarts if your PC encounters an error that causes it to crash. This doesn't matter if it happens once in a blue moon, but if you have a serious problem that happens each time you boot - your PC will constantly reset itself.<br /><br />The easiest way to solve this problem is to disable automatic restart within the Vista control panel. This won't solve the problem causing the crash, but it will provide some on-screen information that will help you diagnose the error.<br /><br />To disable automatic restart, press<strong> WINDOWS KEY + PAUSE/BREAK</strong> to load the System Properties Dialog (you can also access this via the Control Panel > System). Then click on "<strong>Advanced Settings</strong>":<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/automaticrestart1.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Then, select <strong>Settings</strong> in the "Startup and Recovery" area:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/automaticrestart2.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />This will load the Startup and Recovery window, allowing you to untick the <strong>Automatically Restart</strong> box and then click <strong>OK</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/automaticrestart3.jpg" alt="" /><br />Next time your have a crash in Windows Vista, your PC will not automatically reset and you will be able to view the error message.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-67039396921058405412009-09-06T07:55:00.000-07:002009-09-06T07:59:20.709-07:00Delete File In Use in Windows VistaNo doubt at some point you have tried to delete a file (or folder) and have received the following error:<br /><br /><br /><br /><blockquote>Cannot delete file: It is being used by another person or program</blockquote><br /><br />This means that an application is currently using this file and you cannot delete it, this shouldn't normally happen but may occur if a network is using a shared file or a program hasn't closed a file properly.<a name='more'></a><br /><br />Usually, a restart will allow you to delete the file/folder safely - but if you don't want to restart or the problem persists then you need to download a 3rd party tool.<br /><br />There is a great freeware tool called <a href="http://ccollomb.free.fr/unlocker/">Unlocker</a> that lets you delete any file/folder in use by right clicking on it and selecting the unlocker option. This stops applications from accessing the file and deletes the "in use" file:<br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/fileinuse1.jpg" alt="" /><br />This next window shows you all of the applications currently using the requested file, ready for you to select an action from the lower-left dropdown box (such as <strong>Delete</strong>) then click on <strong>Unlock All</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/fileinuse2.jpg" alt="" /><br />Be sure that you do not do this to any system critical files, as it is possible to stop Vista from loading if you use this application improperly.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-38487428121339642252009-09-06T07:08:00.000-07:002009-09-06T07:25:48.709-07:00Fix MBR in Windows VistaIf your hard drive encounters a serious error (perhaps a failed operating system install, corruption or a virus) then you may get an "Error Loading Operating System" message on boot.<br /><br />This often means that you have a corrupt Master Boot Record (MBR) which can be fixed with the Vista repair tool. This should be one of the first things done to resolve the above error message, as performing a format and reinstall will cause a loss of data.<br /><br />First, <strong>insert the Vista DVD</strong> into the computer and restart it (to start the boot process). You will be asked to <strong>press any key</strong> to boot from the DVD:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/fixmbr1.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Then, fill in the language and location options and click <strong>Next</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/fixmbr2.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Now, click <strong>Repair your Computer</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/fixmbr3.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Then, select your Vista partition and click <strong>Next</strong><br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/fixmbr4.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Select <strong>Command Prompt</strong> from the system recovery options window:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/fixmbr5.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Once you are at the command prompt, run the following commands:<br /><br /><br /><br /><blockquote>Bootrec.exe /fixMBR<br />Bootrec.exe /fixBoot</blockquote><br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/fixmbr6.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />The first command fixes the Master Boot Record, and the second fixes the Boot Sector (just in case it is also damaged).<br /><br />You can now<strong> close</strong> the command prompt, remove the Vista DVD and click <strong>Restart</strong>. This should reload Windows with a repaired MBR:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/fixmbr7.jpg" alt="" /><br />You may have noticed there was a "startup repair" option in the Vista boot application. This may also be able to fix your startup problems, but this slightly longer method will fix MBR problems.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-73086489834031290572009-09-06T07:00:00.001-07:002009-09-06T07:00:42.105-07:00Windows Vista Startup ProblemsIt is possible that at some point during using your computer that Windows Vista will be unable to boot. Corruption, viruses and failing hard drives can all cause this, but fortunately Windows Vista can auto-diagnose and fix most problems quite easily.<br /><br />First, insert the <strong>Vista DVD </strong>into the computer and restart it (to start the boot process). You will be asked to <strong>press any key</strong> to boot from the DVD:<a name='more'></a><br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/fixmbr1.jpg" alt="" /><br />Then, fill in the language and location options and click <strong>Next</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/fixmbr2.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Now, click <strong>Repair your Computer</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/fixmbr3.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Then, select your Vista partition and click <strong>Next</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/fixmbr4.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Click <strong>Startup Repair</strong> from the next menu:<br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/startuprepair1.jpg" alt="" /><br />This will launch an automated process to see if there are any problems which may prevent Windows Vista from loading. Your PC may reboot several times during this test, helping the software to detect any faults. If the problem can be fixed, Vista will try to repair the drive and then reboot your PC.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-32147262372583189322009-09-06T06:02:00.000-07:002009-09-06T06:05:14.402-07:00Repairing Corrupted Windows Vista FilesSome Windows Vista errors are caused by corrupt system files causing instabilities, but troubleshooting these problems manually can be almost impossible. Thankfully, Vista includes a "System File Checker" application that will verify the integrity of core system files.<br /><br />There are 2 types of scan, a verification and a scan/repair mode. The former will only check the files without repairing them automatically, the latter will fix any errors it finds.<a name='more'></a><br /><br />To begin, load the command prompt by starting "<strong>cmd</strong>" from the run box (Press <strong>WINDOWS KEY + R</strong> to access this):<br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/corruptvista.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Then, type in one of the following commands (followed by the enter key) depending on the type of scan you wish to perform:<br /><strong></strong><br /><ul><br /> <li><strong>sfc /verifyonly</strong> - To verify any corrupt files only.</li><br /> <li><strong>sfc /scannow</strong> - To verify and fix any corrupt files.<br />This will then start the scan and inform you of any files that require fixing:</li><br /></ul><br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/corruptvista2.jpg" alt="" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-13089432285454917272009-09-06T06:00:00.000-07:002009-09-06T06:02:29.302-07:00Windows Vista System Stability IndexWindows Vista contains a very clever tool that lets you monitor the stability of your system, allowing you to troubleshoot potential problems where necessary. This rating (from 0-10) gives an indication of how stable your system is in relation to normal.<br /><br />To load the tool, click the following options:<a name='more'></a><br /><br /><strong>Control Panel > System and Maintenance > Performance Information and Tools > Advanced Tools > Open Reliability and Performance Manager > Reliability Monitor</strong><br /><br />The chart presented here shows your stability index rating over the past month, along with icons for every event that could effect stability. Clicking on a specific day brings up a list of Application, Hardware, Windows and Miscellaneous failures with details of the modules or processes that caused the failure.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/systemstabilityindex.jpg" alt="" /><br />It is most likely that driver problems and incompatibilities will cause most stability problems and this tool helps identify the modules at fault. Changes can be made and then the system stability index rated at a later date to check for improvements.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-41531700466087848172009-09-06T05:44:00.000-07:002009-09-06T06:00:20.672-07:00Windows Vista System Health ReportVista is able to generate a <strong>System Health</strong> Report that is great for troubleshooting potential problems with your system. This 60 second process will create a list of system technical details, earmarking those which could cause system performance problems.<a name='more'></a><br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/systemhealth1.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br /> <br />To load the application, run "<strong>perfmon /report</strong>" from the command line or find it in the control panel by visiting:<br /><br /><strong>Control Panel > System and Maintenance > Performance Information and Tools > Advanced Tools > Generate System Health Report</strong><br />Most of the likely problems encountered will be missing drivers or high usage of system resources, which will quite often be the memory but could be poor disk I/O performance or a whole other range of unexpected issues. This information is a great basic diagnostic tool for problems that you may not have realised you had, and resolving them could result in a more stable, faster system.<br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/systemhealth2.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />Once the report is generated, any problem areas will be marked with a warning symbol or a red light, followed by information and links to help troubleshoot the problems. It won?t be possible to detail how to fix every problem you encounter within this page, however most of the suggested resolutions are actually really useful (unlike previous versions of Windows that would go round in circles).Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-77293935750764872532009-09-06T05:38:00.000-07:002009-09-06T05:44:15.154-07:00Windows Vista Readyboost ExplainedWindows Vista has introduced a clever new caching system that can take advantage of your existing high-speed storage devices (such as USB Drives and MWindows Vista has introduced a clever new caching system that can take advantage of your existing high-speed storage devices (such as USB Drives and Memory Cards). This should boost performance when performing disk intensive tasks. Some flash memory devices are up to 100x faster than a standard hard disk, so it makes sense to use these to cache common files.<a name='more'></a><br /><br />ReadyBoost works with SuperFetch to store information that can be accessed quickly from the cache on startup, rather than relying on slower reading from the hard disk.<br /><br />There are several requirements that your flash memory device must meet to be used as a ReadyBoost device:<br /><ul><br /> <li>At least 256 MB in size</li><br /> <li>Access time of < 1ms</li><br /> <li>Capable of 2.5 MB/s read speeds for 4 KB random reads spread uniformly across the entire device and 1.75 MB/s write speeds for 512 KB</li><br /> <li>random writes spread uniformly across the device</li><br /> <li>At least 235 MB of free space.</li><br /></ul><br />It is recommended that you have between 1-3 times the amount of ReadyBoost cache as physical RAM. However, ReadyBoost devices are limited to 4GB max.<br /><br />Assuming you meed the minimum requirements, plug your device in to a USB 2.0 port and wait for a Windows Autoplay dialog box to pop up. Select the <strong>Speed up my PC</strong> option from this menu.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/readyboost1.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />You can then set the amount of space on the device that you wish to allocate to ReadyBoost (you may as well use the maximum possible, up to the 3x RAM recommendation). If your device is not compatible or is too slow, you will be informed of the reasons at this point.<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/readyboost2.jpg" alt="" /><br />Users with low amounts of system RAM (512MB - 1GB) will notice the biggest performance increase, and those with 2GB or more may only notice marginal gains.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-79577435334283349642009-09-06T05:34:00.002-07:002009-09-06T05:37:43.773-07:00Can Your system run Windows VistaAlthough many new computers will come with Windows Vista already installed, many users will want to upgrade their old PC with the latest operating system.<br /><br />The recommended minimum requirements for Windows Vista Home Premium / Business / Ultimate are:<br />1 GHz 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor<br />1 GB of system memory<br />40 GB hard drive with at least 15 GB of available space<br />Support for DirectX 9 graphics with:<br />WDDM Driver<br />128 MB of graphics memory<br />Pixel Shader 2.0 in hardware<br />32 bits per pixel<br />DVD-ROM drive<br />Audio Output<br />Internet access<br /><br />However you can run the <a href="http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/windowsvista/buyorupgrade/upgradeadvisor.mspx">Windows Vista Upgrade Adviser</a> to scan your PC to see if it meets the minimum requirements above and check individual hardware components. If any compatibility problems are noticed you will then be notified of them in advance.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-46911860617229950142009-09-06T05:34:00.001-07:002009-09-06T05:34:22.657-07:00Disk Defragmenter In Windows VistaWindows Disk Defragmenter is a handy tool that may help you gain some extra performance from your PC. When Vista writes to your hard drive the bits of information that make up a file can be spread all over the disk (this is called fragmentation). The "defrag" tool will try to join up all of the parts that makes up files so that they are in the same location, decreasing the time it takes to find all of the parts.<br /><br />To load Windows Defrag, run <strong>dfrgui.exe</strong> from the run box (Press <strong>WINDOWS KEY + R</strong> to load this). In this window you can choose to "<strong>Defragment Now</strong>" if you wish to perform this operation now, or alternatively you can schedule a time for your PC to defrag automatically (ideally when you are not using your PC):<br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/diskdefrag1.jpg" alt="" /><br />If you click the button to defrag immediately, you will be informed that this is in progress but there is no graphical indicator like in previous versions of degrag.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8251129556812876800.post-76511492088845040072009-09-06T05:22:00.000-07:002009-09-06T05:28:13.336-07:00Speed Up Vista Slow NetworkWindows Vista has been known to cause slow network transfer speeds for some users, most noticeable when copying files across a network that take much longer than before.<br /><br />Some suggestions that may help users experiencing slow network performance are as follows:<br /><a name='more'></a><br /><br />1) Download the latest drivers for your network adapter from the manufacturers site (do not rely on the Windows Update drivers). Then, check they are configured properly by viewing the device manager settings.<br /><br />2) Install the latest Windows Update patches, including Vista SP1.<br /><br />3) If you use a 3rd Party firewall, be sure that it is configured correctly. For example, in Kaspersky Internet Security there is a "high speed" setting that should be ticked.<br /><br />4) Try disabling Remote Differential Compression by clicking <strong>Start > Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features</strong>. Then click <strong>Turn Windows features on and off</strong>, untick <strong>Remote Differential Compression</strong> and click <strong>OK</strong>:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.tricks2.com/images/slownetwork1.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br />5) The final thing to try would be to disable network Auto-Tuning. First, load the run box by pressing <strong>WINDOWS KEY + R</strong> and then run:<br /><strong>netsh interface tcp set global autotuninglevel=disabled</strong><br /><br />You will need to restart your PC after this and retry the network transfer. If speeds are still low, you can return the auto-tuning to default mode by re-running the following command:<br /><br /><strong>netsh interface tcp set global autotuninglevel=normal </strong>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0