Pocket : Windows 8.1 update said to arrive when XP ends

Pocket : Windows 8.1 update said to arrive when XP ends: "April 8 is the day support for XP ends. Though it may be cold comfort for XP users, it may also be the day that Microsoft updates Windows 8.1.

Early April is shaping up to be a watershed of sorts for Windows users. At the same time that support for Windows XP is ending, the Windows 8.1 update is arriving to the general public, according to Neowin, citing a tweet from Supersite for Windows."



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Should You Buy A Smartwatch Now, Or Wait?

Should You Buy A Smartwatch Now, Or Wait?: "Everyone is talking about smartwatches and other wearables as “the next big thing.” The Pebble saw massive success on Kickstarter, and companies as well-known as Samsung and Sony have jumped into the ring with their own smartwatches. Future smartwatches from companies as diverse as Apple, Google, and Microsoft are rumored to be on their way. So, should you buy a smartwatch today, or wait for the smartwatches to come?"



'via Blog this'

5 Useful Things You Can Do With Your Phone Even When It's Miles Away

5 Useful Things You Can Do With Your Phone Even When It's Miles Away: "An Android phone is such a powerful tool. You can use an Android tethered for access to the Internet or as a standalone wireless hotspot. You can use it to solve everyday problems, or to impress your friends. But did you know that your Android phone can be useful even when you don’t have it on you?"



'via Blog this'

How to Generate a List with All the User Accounts Found in Windows

How to Generate a List with All the User Accounts Found in Windows: "Do you need a quick way of listing all the user accounts that exist on a Windows PC or device? A method that works on all versions of Windows? You can use a quick command in the Command Prompt and learn this information or store it into a text file. Here's how it is done:"



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How To Know Your Bandwidth Usage – Windows 8.x | Daves Computer Tips

How To Know Your Bandwidth Usage – Windows 8.x | Daves Computer Tips: "Our very own Dave Hartsock wrote an article back in 2011 that still makes a lot of sense to me. Some articles seem timeless and this is one of them. You can read “Do Broadband Caps Make Sense” to give you some food for thought.
If you happen to be one of many being served by any of the offending ISPs, then you are probably very conscious of just how much bandwidth you are actually using each month. Many of you may be using a third-party utility to monitor said usage."



'via Blog this'

How to delete your Facebook search history | How To - CNET

How to delete your Facebook search history | How To - CNET: "Facebook keeps a record of everything you search for on its Web site. Check out this How To guide for cleaning up the list, or just limiting what information Facebook is storing about you."



'via Blog this'

4 Takes On Netflix's Streaming Deal With Comcast : All Tech Considered : NPR

4 Takes On Netflix's Streaming Deal With Comcast : All Tech Considered : NPR: "If you are in the middle of a House of Cards binge, the news from Netflix over the weekend is good — video streaming quality will improve. After reports of declining performance in recent months, Netflix — which accounts for 30 percent of broadband traffic — cut a deal with Comcast to pay the cable provider for direct access to its systems."



'via Blog this'

Are PCs Dying? Of Course Not, Here’s Why

Are PCs Dying? Of Course Not, Here’s Why: "Reports of the PC’s demise have been greatly exaggerated. We’ve all heard that everyone’s just buying tablets and throwing out their keyboards and mice. But, if you live in the real world, you see people using PCs every day.

The statistics show that PCs are still selling in large numbers and are used much more than tablets. But we don’t need statistics to see this — we all know that huge amounts of people still use and need PCs."



'via Blog this'

How To Fix High CPU Usage In Windows

How To Fix High CPU Usage In Windows: "If your computer fans frequently hit top speeds, it’s a sign that your CPU is fully loaded. Simultaneously, your computer may slow down. That’s annoying, especially if you’re not actually doing anything.
The CPU (central processing unit), also known as processor, is the brain of your computer. Like your own noggin, it can become overwhelmed if bombarded with too many processes, or if a single task consumes undue attention. Just as you may find work difficult when overwhelmed, your processor can slow to a crawl if too much is asked of it at once."



'via Blog this'

Mind Mapping On The iPad: Here Are Your Options

Mind Mapping On The iPad: Here Are Your Options: "Whether you’re studying or brainstorming: making mind maps can be an essential skill. Paper works fine in a pinch, but technology makes the whole process ten times easier.
Your iPad, in particular, is the ideal study companion and works wonders for creating mind maps. There are some incredible third party tools that make it especially fast and easy to create a wide variety of mind maps and other diagrams with your tablet."



'via Blog this'

Apps that make you say “Wow!” - The Kim Komando Show

Apps that make you say “Wow!” - The Kim Komando Show: "Remember when we loved technology? I like it not just for all the great things it can help us do, but also for that ineffable feeling of wonder that a bright technological idea can sometimes give us. Remember when you first started to play with the Internet? The first time you Skyped with a loved one far away? The first text from someone who claimed all this digital stuff was too hard?"



'via Blog this'

The Mobile App, Composing Mail, and Conversations — www.howtogeek.com

The Mobile App, Composing Mail, and Conversations — www.howtogeek.com: "In this lesson, we’ll continue our tour of Gmail interface by covering the Gmail app, specifically the Android version. Then we’ll finally get to the good stuff by showing you how to compose messages and how you can easily follow your messages with Gmail’s unique conversation view."



'via Blog this'

A Free Microsoft Office: Is Office Online Worth Using? — www.howtogeek.com

A Free Microsoft Office: Is Office Online Worth Using? — www.howtogeek.com: "Microsoft’s Office Online is a completely free, web-based version of Microsoft Office. This online office suite is clearly competing with Google Docs, but it’s also a potential replacement for the desktop version of Office."



'via Blog this'

Gmail Guide: Getting to Know Gmail

Gmail Guide: Getting to Know Gmail: "This series is intended to help you master the important and useful features of Google’s Gmail and its simple but smart interface. By the end of these lessons, we’ll take you from a rookie to a power user."



'via Blog this'

An introduction to Microsoft Office Online

An introduction to Microsoft Office Online: "Microsoft has launched Office Online, a free, online version of its Office productivity suite. It's not surprising that it has been launched, as Microsoft continues to hone its cloud and unification vision. What is surprising for many people is finding out that Microsoft already had a free online version of Office available."



'via Blog this'

Google Authorship: The Complete Handbook for Getting Respect, Readers, and Rankings - Boost Blog Traffic

Google Authorship: The Complete Handbook for Getting Respect, Readers, and Rankings - Boost Blog Traffic: "As an online writer, you’re always interested in new ways to get traffic, right?

Of course you are. And with good reason.

You’re serious about your craft, you take pride in your content, and you want – in fact deserve – the widest possible audience."



'via Blog this'

How to Reset Your iPhone or iPad, Even if it Won’t Boot

How to Reset Your iPhone or iPad, Even if it Won’t Boot: "You can easily reset your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch to factory default settings. If you’re experiencing problems — even if it won’t boot — you can reinstall the entire iOS operating system.

There are several ways to do this, and we’ll go through them from the simplest to the most complicated. You’ll need a PC or Mac with iTunes installed to restore your device’s operating system."



'via Blog this'

A Handy Guide to the Internet’s Best Top Music Services | Underwire | Wired.com

A Handy Guide to the Internet’s Best Top Music Services | Underwire | Wired.com: "THE SONIC SPECTRUM
Here’s where the major music services fall on the continuum from jukebox (you’re the boss) to DJ (you surrender control). Hover over image to zoom in or click here to see larger image."



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Rumor: Comcast Reaches Agreement with Netflix, Serves Traffic Directly | News & Opinion | PCMag.com

Rumor: Comcast Reaches Agreement with Netflix, Serves Traffic Directly | News & Opinion | PCMag.com: "With all the news lately that Netflix quality is degrading as a result of all the squabbling between ISPs and bandwidth providers over who has to pay for the traffic its users consume, there's a bit of a silver lining. Assuming that your household is "Comcastic," you might have already started to see a better experience with your Netflix viewing seemingly out of the blue."



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Netflix packets being dropped every day because Verizon wants more money | Ars Technica

Netflix packets being dropped every day because Verizon wants more money | Ars Technica: "The battle over who should pay to carry Netflix traffic is heating up again, and one of the main players blames Verizon's greed for the poor performance that many consumers see when trying to watch streaming video.

Cogent Communications CEO Dave Schaeffer made his case in an interview with Ars yesterday, saying Verizon is refusing to upgrade the infrastructure that carries Internet traffic from one network to another unless outrageous demands for payment are met."



'via Blog this'

Could Wi-Fi be Harmful to a Newborn Baby?

Could Wi-Fi be Harmful to a Newborn Baby?: "Wi-Fi has become such an ingrained part of our everyday lives, that we tend not to give it much thought unless it has stopped working. But what if your family has a newborn baby in the house? Are there any dangers that new parents should be aware of?"



'via Blog this'

What Is the Best Free PDF Print Utility? : Beginner Computer Tips - YouTube

What Is the Best Free PDF Print Utility? : Beginner Computer Tips - YouTube: ""



'via Blog this'

Does WhatsApp deal show Facebook knows what's up?

Does WhatsApp deal show Facebook knows what's up?: "The deal sent shock waves through the technology industry because of the staggering price being paid for a four-year-old service that isn't as well known in the U.S. as it is overseas where WhatsApp has become a hip way to communicate instantaneously."



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How to Hide Text in Word 2010 | Daves Computer Tips

How to Hide Text in Word 2010 | Daves Computer Tips: "There is a feature in the two latest versions of Word that will allow you to hide sensitive information, such as client names, Social Security Numbers, phone numbers, or any text that you do not want seen. This feature comes in very handy when you need to send documents to a colleague who works for another company. One example would be a law office. Lawyers frequently call each other and ask for a particular type of pleading. The lawyer will typically copy the pleading from one file and then use a marker to block the client names, etc. and send it along to his/her fellow lawyer."



'via Blog this'

4 of the Best Personal Wikis to Keep You Organized

4 of the Best Personal Wikis to Keep You Organized: "TiddlyWiki is a neat little program. Well, technically, it isn’t even a program. It’s just an HTML file that you download and it comes packaged with a JAR file that handles the manipulation of data. In order to run it, you just open up the HTML file in a browser and you’ll see the wiki in all its glory. TiddlyWiki works in all of the major browsers, including IE, Firefox, Chrome, Opera, and Safari."



'via Blog this'

Tech Retrospect: Facebook buys WhatsApp and Google launches Project Tango | Columns - CNET Reviews

Tech Retrospect: Facebook buys WhatsApp and Google launches Project Tango | Columns - CNET Reviews: "The big, multi-billion dollar acquisitions just keep rolling in -- and they keep getting bigger, too. The latest comes courtesy of Facebook, which paid a total of $19 billion in cash, stock, and options for WhatsApp. At first glance that seems like an absolutely preposterous amount of money for an app that many in the US still haven't heard of. But, roll up the numbers plus the angles, and it starts to make a little more sense."



'via Blog this'

Google+ Meets Gmail: Everything You Need To Know About The Explosive Combo

Google+ Meets Gmail: Everything You Need To Know About The Explosive Combo: "It’s no secret that Google has been working hard to push its social network into the mainstream. Google has killed off some of its own products — e.g, the late Google Reader — in an attempt to drive more users into the arms of Google+. A more common tactic, however, has been to create bridges between the social network and other popular Google products."



'via Blog this'

Why Android Phones Slow Down Over Time and How to Speed Them Up

Why Android Phones Slow Down Over Time and How to Speed Them Up: "Do Android phones and tablets slow down over time? Many people seem to think so. We’ll look at the reasons why devices slow down and how to battle slow downs.

This problem isn’t necessarily unique to Android — try using an iPad 3 with iOS 7 and feel how slow it’s become — but it does seem to be reported by many Android users."



'via Blog this'

Here’s why big cities aren’t getting Google Fiber anytime soon

Here’s why big cities aren’t getting Google Fiber anytime soon: "On Wednesday, Google announced it was mulling whether to expand Google Fiber to as many as 34 new cities around the country. Many of these are mid-sized locations like Portland and San Antonio — a sign that Google's early efforts in slightly smaller places, such as Kansas City, are paying off and that the company is ready to take on bigger challenges."



'via Blog this'

Hell no, we won't go: 10 reasons some XP users refuse to upgrade | ZDNet

Hell no, we won't go: 10 reasons some XP users refuse to upgrade | ZDNet: "Last month, I wrote an article entitled The land of forgotten XP installs: Have you looked everywhere? The article talked about all the Windows XP installs still living on embedded systems and virtual machines, and the need to dig them out and upgrade them before the April XP support cut-off date. It was a short article, but it inspired a lot of comments from ZDNet readers out there. Much to my surprise, many of you have no intention of leaving XP."



'via Blog this'

How to Get Navigation Directions (Even Offline) Without Buying a GPS

How to Get Navigation Directions (Even Offline) Without Buying a GPS: "Dedicated GPS devices are going the way of the dodo, and for good reason. That smartphone or tablet you have can be a capable GPS with turn-by-turn navigation. This works even if you don’t have a data connection."



'via Blog this'

Computer Tips And Tricks part 4 Keyboard As A Mouse2 - YouTube

Computer Tips And Tricks part 4 Keyboard As A Mouse2 - YouTube:



'via Blog this'

How to make the Windows desktop look good on high-DPI displays | PCWorld

How to make the Windows desktop look good on high-DPI displays | PCWorld: "ne of the most long-overdue trends in PC is the rise of high-pixel-density displays. For ages, computer monitors have gotten bigger and bigger, with only a minor increase in resolution to go along with it, meaning that we’ve been paying more to see a blurrier, more pixelated desktop."



'via Blog this'

What to expect from Windows 8.1 Update 1

What to expect from Windows 8.1 Update 1: "Whether you love it or hate it, Windows 8 keeps moving forward. Windows 8.1 added a lot of features and interface improvements to the first iteration. Now another improvement is coming, which Microsoft is calling Windows 8.1 Update 1. It's like a service pack that improves security and stability under the hood. But what's most notable is how it makes the Start screen and modern interface easier to use with keyboard and mouse on traditional computers."



'via Blog this'

5 Tips To Prevent Computer Rage Happening To You - AVG

5 Tips To Prevent Computer Rage Happening To You - AVG: "Ever wanted to smash your computer into a million pieces with a baseball bat and then throw it out the window ‘celebrity style’?!

Usually this sort of feeling erupts deep from within when your computer is misbehaving, going slowly or giving you the ole ‘blue screen of death’."



'via Blog this'

How to Install Linux on a Chromebook

How to Install Linux on a Chromebook: "Do you need Skype on your Chromebook? Do you miss not having access to games through Steam? Are you pining to use VLC Media Player? Then start using Linux on your Chromebook.
Installing a traditional Linux environment on your Chromebook is a quick and easy way to unlock your machine’s true potential and improve its functionality."



'via Blog this'

Ask HTG: Why Does My New HDTV’s Picture Look Awful?

Ask HTG: Why Does My New HDTV’s Picture Look Awful?: "You’ve unpacked and installed your new HDTV, you’ve fired it up, and despite the expectation that everything should look magnificent on it, you can’t get over how everything looks uncannily smooth and downright weird. Read on as we explain why and show you how to fix it."



'via Blog this'

OneDrive, Dropbox, Google Drive, and Box: Which cloud storage service is right for you? | Software - CNET Reviews

OneDrive, Dropbox, Google Drive, and Box: Which cloud storage service is right for you? | Software - CNET Reviews: "Microsoft gave its cloud storage service a makeover today, replacing the now-defunct SkyDrive with the shiny, new OneDrive. After a legal battle, Microsoft changed the name, and used the opportunity to add a few new features to its cloud option.
Though not much about SkyDrive changes in the switch to OneDrive, we're taking this opportunity outline the differences and give you a guide to the other popular cloud storage options out there. Whether you're unhappy with your current cloud service, or have never dabbled in keeping your files in the cloud, this primer will help you get acquainted with the major (and some of the minor) players out there."



'via Blog this'

FCC to rewrite Net neutrality rules | Mobile - CNET News

FCC to rewrite Net neutrality rules | Mobile - CNET News: "Federal Communications Commission Chairman Tom Wheeler said he plans on a do-over for Net neutrality rules.
On Wednesday, the chairman laid out a plan for preserving the Open Internet after a federal appeals court struck down the rules last month."



'via Blog this'

Microsoft to give 100GB free OneDrive storage to early birds | Microsoft - CNET News

Microsoft to give 100GB free OneDrive storage to early birds | Microsoft - CNET News: "OneDrive users who sign in fast enough can score plenty of free storage for the next year.
Microsoft will dole out 100GB of extra space to the first 100,000 people who sign onto their OneDrive accounts once the new promotion gets off the ground sometime on Wednesday. The extra space comes on top of your existing OneDrive (formerly SkyDrive) storage, but is good just for one year."



'via Blog this'

King's Assembly puts keyboard, mouse and joystick at your fingertips

King's Assembly puts keyboard, mouse and joystick at your fingertips: "For those who play video games, a fraction of a second, say, the time it takes to move your hand from keyboard to mouse, can be enough to lose a soldier, building or entire army. For this reason keyboard shortcuts have become an important weapon in the gamer's arsenal, but what if our commands could be streamlined even further? With this objective in mind, a US-based engineer and founder of Solid Art Labs Eric Charlton has designed the King's Assembly, an input device which allows control over a keyboard, mouse and joystick simultaneously."



'via Blog this'

How to print from the Kindle Fire HD or HDX

How to print from the Kindle Fire HD or HDX: "If you own a Kindle Fire HD or HDX there might be some times when you’ll want to print an email, document, or web article from it. You can print directly to modern Wi-Fi printers. And since the Kindle Fire runs on Android, it’s easy to set it up to use Google Cloud Print and remotely print to virtually any printer that’s connected to the web."



'via Blog this'

Celluon EPIC Virtual Keyboard Review and Giveaway

Celluon EPIC Virtual Keyboard Review and Giveaway: "Does your Bluetooth-enabled portable keyboard seem a bit old and bulky? Maybe you should take a look at futuristic ideas such as virtual projection keyboards. Sounds awesome, but how long do you have to wait? What if I told you it’s here, now, and ready for you to buy? Then take a look at the $150 Celluon EPIC Virtual Keyboard."



'via Blog this'

5 Mistakes You Should Avoid When Buying A New Laptop

5 Mistakes You Should Avoid When Buying A New Laptop: "The laptop has, for many people, become the only home computer needed. Fast, yet portable, they offer the best of both worlds, and can be had for $500 (or less). Their lure is understandable.
Yet a laptop is also more complex and, compared to a desktop, far less flexible. A desktop user unhappy with a monitor, keyboard or mouse can simply replace it, but laptop buyers have no options. This means picking the right system is both more important, yet also more difficult. Here’s what to look out for if you’re ready to open your wallet."



'via Blog this'

Attackers Can Use Computrace Anti-Theft Tool to Remote Wipe PCs

Attackers Can Use Computrace Anti-Theft Tool to Remote Wipe PCs: "According to a kaspersky Lab researcher, a popular anti-theft software installed on laptops from pretty much every major computer manufacturer can be used by attackers to hijack computers."



'via Blog this'

Muzei Live Wallpaper Makes Your Android Home Screen Beautiful in Just a Few Taps

Muzei Live Wallpaper Makes Your Android Home Screen Beautiful in Just a Few Taps: "Android has supported live wallpapers since version 2.1, but most of the apps taking advantage of it are a little too busy for long term use. Muzei is a different take on the Android live wallpaper. This app takes various images and puts them behind a blur effect to create an understated, but very attractive backdrop."



'via Blog this'

Daily Roundup: Harmonix's musical first-person shooter, limited edition PS4 and more!

Daily Roundup: Harmonix's musical first-person shooter, limited edition PS4 and more!: "You might say the day is never really done in consumer technology news. Your workday, however, hopefully draws to a close at some point. This is the Daily Roundup on Engadget, a quick peek back at the top headlines for the past 24 hours -- all handpicked by the editors here at the site. Click on through the break, and enjoy."



'via Blog this'

Reset a Slow Browser : Beginner Computer Tips - YouTube

Reset a Slow Browser : Beginner Computer Tips - YouTube: ""



'via Blog this'

How to Delete Labels in Gmail : Beginner Computer Tips - YouTube

How to Delete Labels in Gmail : Beginner Computer Tips - YouTube: ""



'via Blog this'

10 Ways to Boost Your Wireless Signal | PCMag.com

10 Ways to Boost Your Wireless Signal | PCMag.com: "When it comes to wireless performance, there are actually two main factors to consider: range and speed. Yes, you can have one without the other. For example, it's great having a speedy wireless network, but if you only get great speed when you use a wireless client right next to the router and get no signal when you're only 15 feet away, then speed doesn't mean much. You need to boost the signal's range. If your device can barely open friends' Facebook pictures when you're in the same room as the router, then we're talking about problems with speed."



'via Blog this'

Hackers use Internet Explorer flaw on VFW site - chicagotribune.com

Hackers use Internet Explorer flaw on VFW site - chicagotribune.com: "A flaw in recent versions of Internet Explorer was used to attack visitors to a website for U.S. military veterans, and also appears to have been used earlier against French aerospace industry employees, researchers said Friday."



'via Blog this'

Smartphone Kill Switch Could Become Federal Law - InformationWeek

Smartphone Kill Switch Could Become Federal Law - InformationWeek: "A week after California State Senator Mark Leno (D-CA) proposed a bill requiring a kill switch for smartphones sold in the state, federal lawmakers have put forward a similar bill."



'via Blog this'

Microsoft sets Oct. 31 as stop date for Windows 7 consumer PC sales - Computerworld

Microsoft sets Oct. 31 as stop date for Windows 7 consumer PC sales - Computerworld: "Computerworld - Microsoft has set Oct. 31 as the end of sales of new consumer-grade Windows 7 PCs, but for now has left open the do-not-sell-after-this-date for business machines."



'via Blog this'

Google, Comcast Want to Make Sure You Have Fast Wi-Fi | News & Opinion | PCMag.com

Google, Comcast Want to Make Sure You Have Fast Wi-Fi | News & Opinion | PCMag.com: "More than a dozen tech and cable companies have joined forces for a coalition hoping to expand and improve Wi-Fi networks.
WifiForward boasts heavyweight partners like Google, Comcast, Microsoft, Charter Communications, and Time Warner Cable. Its goal: free up more spectrum to lessen the stress on networks currently bogged down by massive use."



'via Blog this'

Microsoft Asks Windows XP Holdouts: Upgrade to Windows 8 Already | News & Opinion | PCMag.com

Microsoft Asks Windows XP Holdouts: Upgrade to Windows 8 Already | News & Opinion | PCMag.com: "Windows XP has but 59 days left to live – officially, that is. On April 8, as we've reported numerous times previously, Microsoft is officially pulling the plug on the operating system. The not-so-insignificant number of users running the legacy OS will still be able to use it, but they won't be able to count on Microsoft for patches, updates, security fixes, and other forms of support past the cutoff date."



'via Blog this'

Turn Windows Into A WiFi Hotspot & Share Your Internet Connection

Turn Windows Into A WiFi Hotspot & Share Your Internet Connection: "You’ve got an Internet connection via a network cable, but you want to have your other computers and devices get Internet connections wirelessly. Can you do this? Can you make your Windows computer run like a WiFi router?"



'via Blog this'

Bizarre attack infects Linksys routers with self-replicating malware | Ars Technica

Bizarre attack infects Linksys routers with self-replicating malware | Ars Technica: "Researchers say they have uncovered an ongoing attack that infects home and small-office wireless routers from Linksys with self-replicating malware, most likely by exploiting a code-execution vulnerability in the device firmware.

Johannes B. Ullrich, CTO of the Sans Institute, told Ars he has been able to confirm that the malicious worm has infected around 1,000 Linksys E1000, E1200, and E2400 routers, although the actual number of hijacked devices worldwide could be much higher. A blog post Sans published shortly after this article was posted expanded the range of vulnerable models to virtually the entire Linksys E product line. Once a device is compromised, it scans the Internet for other vulnerable devices to infect."



'via Blog this'

What Comcast's buyout of Time Warner Cable means for you (FAQ) | Internet & Media - CNET News

What Comcast's buyout of Time Warner Cable means for you (FAQ) | Internet & Media - CNET News: "Comcast and Time Warner Cable, the country's biggest cable companies, on Thursday agreed to unite in a $45 billion deal that will create a pay-television giant with approximately 30 million subscribers, controlling nearly a third of the pay-TV market and more than half of the market for "triple play" packages combining video, Internet, and voice telecom services."



'via Blog this'

Chromecast vs. Apple TV vs. Roku 3: Which media streamer should you buy? | TV and Home Theater - CNET Reviews

Chromecast vs. Apple TV vs. Roku 3: Which media streamer should you buy? | TV and Home Theater - CNET Reviews: "Those aren't the only streaming boxes on the market, but they're by far the most popular and for good reason -- they all come in models under $100 and offer a lot of value for your money. While the Roku 3 remains my favorite streamer and a CNET Editors' Choice, it's not necessarily the best choice for every buyer and the Google Chromecast and Apple TV are compelling alternatives."



'via Blog this'

Running Linux from USB: Are You Doing It Right?

Running Linux from USB: Are You Doing It Right?: "You’ve probably heard about live Linux environments on USB drives, but did you know that you can also keep data persistent or even do a full install on the USB drive? Here are your three options for carrying Linux in your pocket. Find out which method is best for you."



'via Blog this'

4 Things You Can Do To Prevent Panic When Gmail Goes Down

4 Things You Can Do To Prevent Panic When Gmail Goes Down: "t is pretty easy to take Gmail for granted because, like Microsoft Windows or that stray eyelash you can’t seem to get rid of no matter how many times you gouge your own eyes out, it is always there. But when Gmail goes down, it seems like the whole world just stops. Twitter is instantly abuzz with people panicking that Gmail is down and they don’t know what to do. Instead of panicking, here are some things you can try that may make you feel better when Gmail is out of sorts."



'via Blog this'

Excel Formulas: Useful Functions You Should Get to Know

Excel Formulas: Useful Functions You Should Get to Know: "In this lesson we’ll discuss categories of functions – what they do and various examples – and to illustrate how they work, we’ll show you several example spreadsheets. We encourage you to follow along by creating your own spreadsheets."



'via Blog this'

5 Serious Problems with HTTPS and SSL Security on the Web

5 Serious Problems with HTTPS and SSL Security on the Web: "HTTPS, which uses SSL, provides identity verification and security, so you know you’re connected to the correct website and no one can eavesdrop on you. That’s the theory, anyway. In practice, SSL on the web is kind of a mess."



'via Blog this'

How do You Find Out the IP Address for a Website?

How do You Find Out the IP Address for a Website?: "Whether you are in it just for a bit of geeky fun, or are seriously wanting to know the answer, how do you find out the IP address for a website? Today’s SuperUser Q&A post looks at the answer, and how to know if more than one website is bound to the same IP address.

Today’s Question & Answer session comes to us courtesy of SuperUser—a subdivision of Stack Exchange, a community-driven grouping of Q&A web sites."



'via Blog this'

▶ If we show you how to back up your PC for free, will you finally do it? | PCWorld

▶ If we show you how to back up your PC for free, will you finally do it? | PCWorld: "If we show you how to back up your PC for free, will you finally do it? Beyond simple hard drive failure, your PC could fall prey to user error or all sorts of nefarious malware. The only way to ensure that none of your personal files or programs are lost in a catastrophe is to back up everything regularly."



'via Blog this'

How to clean up the mess left by browser toolbars | PCWorld

How to clean up the mess left by browser toolbars | PCWorld: "You would think that in 2014, we'd have put all the web shenanigans of the 1990s and early aughts behind us, but you'd be wrong—at least for Windows users. Download a desktop app like AVG, Skype, or Vuze and these programs will try to sneak toolbars onto your system or change your default home page and browser. Yuck."



'via Blog this'

▶ How to protect your PC in the web's worst neighborhoods | PCWorld

▶ How to protect your PC in the web's worst neighborhoods | PCWorld: "Your data. Your wallet. Your identity. In the darker corners of the internet, it’s all fair game, and disaster could be one unwitting click away. Protect yourself by learning about the web’s most common dangers, and how to avoid them. Also, take some basic steps to make your PC more resistant to harm."



'via Blog this'

More Ways To Avoid Unwanted Crapware | Daves Computer Tips

More Ways To Avoid Unwanted Crapware | Daves Computer Tips: "Last week we published several articles dealing with the additional crapware which so often accompanies software installations, including a review of the freeware Unchecky. Following a couple of  comments from our readers, I thought this was a topic which could certainly be expanded upon."



'via Blog this'

How to Use Microsoft Office on Tablets and Smartphones

How to Use Microsoft Office on Tablets and Smartphones: "Microsoft has been called late to the party for not offering Microsoft Office for the iPad, other tablets, and smartphones. But Microsoft does make quite a few different versions of Office for mobile devices, although they aren’t full versions of Office."



'via Blog this'

How to Get Data Off an Old Hard Drive (Without Putting It in a PC)

How to Get Data Off an Old Hard Drive (Without Putting It in a PC): "You saved an old hard drive (or three) from previous computers and now you’d like to get at the data on them. Is there an easy way to access the data without cracking open your current computer and mounting the hard drives inside?"



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Purchasing A Computer: Tips And Tricks On Seeking The Right One For You | carn2013.com

Purchasing A Computer: Tips And Tricks On Seeking The Right One For You | carn2013.com: "It’s clear to understand why most people are nervous about buying a computer. However, no one should worry as there is helpful advice available that can help using the decision process. Please read on to view how expert computer shoppers get what they really want."



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Important Computer Tips You Must Know » Social Networking Community

Important Computer Tips You Must Know » Social Networking Community: "When it comes to knowing about computers, there is really quite a bit out there which is why computer tips are always helpful. The field of computers and the entire internet experience is extremely vast and difficult for most people to learn. But do not give up because the amount of excellent information is plentiful enough. Also, very many aspects of this discussion are a lot easier to understand and put into effect than you realize. As you read the following computer tips, just think about your own needs and go from there. "



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How to install Google apps on Kindle Fire HD or HDX

How to install Google apps on Kindle Fire HD or HDX: "One of the main reasons to root your Kindle Fire is so you can install the Google Play Store and have access to apps that can't be found in the Amazon Appstore. But if you're worried about voiding the warranty or dealing with the rooting process in general, you can sideload apps. The cool thing about this technique is it doesn't require you to root the device first. Here's how to get most of the Google apps on your Kindle Fire HD or HDX."



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Why Traffic To These Google Alternatives Is Soaring - Forbes

Why Traffic To These Google Alternatives Is Soaring - Forbes: "What you look for on the Internet reveals a lot about you, which is why a growing number of people are turning to services that do not track their searches and offer greater privacy protections than Google."



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The best tech accessories you can buy for $25 or less - CNET Reviews

The best tech accessories you can buy for $25 or less - CNET Reviews: "After rounding up some of our favorite gadgets available for less than $50, we decided that wasn't good enough. So we searched and scrounged and came up with some great tech accessories that can be yours for $25 or less. The list is dominated by familiar names such as Logitech, Panasonic, SanDisk, Philips, and Amazon, and includes some headphones and flash drives for as little as $12."



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How 6 Months With Chromecast Changed Me – ReadWrite

How 6 Months With Chromecast Changed Me – ReadWrite: "When I first heard about Google's TV stick, I couldn't imagine how it could be helpful or convenient. I already had streaming TV boxes, and some could already send online media to my flat screen via mobile device or computer. But after I received the product, it didn't take long for Chromecast to become my primary streaming device. "



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Google opens Chromecast to all developers | Internet & Media - CNET News

Google opens Chromecast to all developers | Internet & Media - CNET News: "A key part of Google's plans to build the future of its Chromecast dongle has slipped into place as the company unlocked its Chromecast software development kit on Monday morning.
The Google Cast Software Development Kit (SDK), available now, will allow app developers to give their users the option to stream their apps or Web sites to the Chromecast, which acts like a receiver that you plug into your TV's HDMI port. Web site compatibility only works in Google Chrome via extension, also available today."



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Google Loses Appeal, Forced to Publish €150,000 Fine on Google.fr | News & Opinion | PCMag.com

Google Loses Appeal, Forced to Publish €150,000 Fine on Google.fr | News & Opinion | PCMag.com: "Google lost a last-minute appeal to French courts on Friday, and was forced to display a huge, 13-point text block on its otherwise sterile Google.fr webpage for 48 hours.
The text within the block – for those who don't speak French and/or are too lazy to Google Translate the page – refers to the €150,000 fine Google will have to pony up for violating French data collection laws."



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Five steps for a better-looking TV | How To - CNET

Five steps for a better-looking TV | How To - CNET: "TV factory settings are generally designed to look good in bright, fluorescent retail stores -- not your living room. To get the best TV picture, you'll need to make some adjustments.
This guide begins with some of the simpler (but impactful) settings -- like disabling unnecessary features and adjusting basic options -- before diving into some of the more in-depth calibration techniques. Give it a whirl; if you make it through the fifth step, you're sure to have a better-looking TV."



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Recommended Software | Daves Computer Tips

Recommended Software | Daves Computer Tips:



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Important Computer Repair Safety Tips

Important Computer Repair Safety Tips: "In addition to being an afternoon of great fun, PC repair can save you loads of time and money. No amount of fun, money or time is enough, though, to compromise your safety.

Keep these important tips in mind as you work inside your computer:"



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Computer Repair Troubleshooting Tips-Common Troubleshooting Techniques & Strategies- Directron.com the Best Online Computer Store - Buy with Discount Prices from Houston Texas

Computer Repair Troubleshooting Tips-Common Troubleshooting Techniques & Strategies- Directron.com the Best Online Computer Store - Buy with Discount Prices from Houston Texas: "The following article is based on years of experience. It is provided as a free service to our customers and visitors. However, Directron.com is not responsible for any damage as a result of following any of this advice.

Copying the contents for commercial purposes is strictly prohibited without Directron.com's written consent. However, you are welcome to distribute these computer support tips free to your friends and associates as long as it's not for commercial purposes and you acknowledge the source. You are permitted and encouraged to create links to this page from your own web site."



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How to Repair Computer: 7 Steps (with Pictures) - wikiHow

How to Repair Computer: 7 Steps (with Pictures) - wikiHow: "Any abnormality in the integrated components of a computer can prove harmful to its performance, but some general computer issues can be addressed at personal level. There are effective computer repair tips and tricks which can be implemented to resolve these problems. Computer repair is important because we are becoming dependent on it for every personal and professional task. There are variety of problems; some are simple while others are complicated. However, you can repair your system on your own by following some tips and tricks. Some of them are discussed here:"



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Ask HTG: Why is My Download Speed Slower Than the Internet I Pay For?

Ask HTG: Why is My Download Speed Slower Than the Internet I Pay For?: "Your ISP advertises a 40Mb connection, but that doesn’t look anything like the download speed you see when you’re grabbing a big file. What’s the deal? Are you not getting all the bandwidth you’re paying for?"



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Dropcam Pro WiFi Monitoring System Review and Giveaway

Dropcam Pro WiFi Monitoring System Review and Giveaway: "When you think of security cameras, you may often think of bulky, expensive devices that are difficult to install and configure. But, this is no longer the case. Today, you can get a very sleek, compact, and lightweight camera for a decent price that is easy to set up and use. If you’ve been curious about getting your own security camera (the easy way), give the $200 Dropcam Pro a serious consideration."



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Chromebooks – Useful or Useless?

Chromebooks – Useful or Useless?: "My wife gave me a choice of gadgets for Christmas – a new MP3 player, or a Chromebook?
I have never seen the need to upgrade my ancient MP3 player, and the remaining lifespan of standalone MP3 players is now surely limited by the relentless march of smartphones, wearable tech, and cloud based music services. On the other hand, netbooks have been edged out of the market by the ever increasing capabilities of tablets and the competitive pricing of standard laptops – is the Chromebook not merely a watered-down version of these redundant models?"



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How To Enter The BIOS On Your Computer

How To Enter The BIOS On Your Computer: "Inside the BIOS you can change basic computer settings, like the boot order, system time and date, or which hardware components are enabled; that’s why the BIOS is also referred to as ‘Setup’. Entering the BIOS just takes a simple key stroke at the right moment while the system is booting. To save you the guesswork, we have compiled the different ways you can enter the BIOS."



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Facebook Paper (for iPhone) Review & Rating | PCMag.com

Facebook Paper (for iPhone) Review & Rating | PCMag.com: "BY JEFFREY L. WILSON
Facebook's finally created an iPhone app that makes me giddy. Paper, Facebook's entry into the ever-expanding social news reader space, not only feeds you articles of interest based on who you follow on the mega-popular social network, but also trending stories from sources such as Complex Magazine, Huffington Post, Pitchfork, and Vice. Paper is a beautiful, elegant app that nonetheless lacks a key feature or two, preventing me from abandoning the existing Facebook iOS app or our Editors' Choice award-winning Flipboard for iPhone."



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Computer repair guys... what is the craziest stuff you have seen on a customer's computer. : AskReddit

Computer repair guys... what is the craziest stuff you have seen on a customer's computer. : AskReddit: "I was a manager at computer repair for a retailer a couple year ago. We had a clients computer in the back running various malware and virus scans. I was doing morning paperwork in the back near the computer. This pc had its screen saver on displaying random photos from the My pictures folder, various family members, childrens birthday parties the usual stuff. then from then of my eye I swear to god I saw a picture of a woman from the shoulders up with her throat cut. As soon as I realized what I was making out I directed my full attention and it was back to photos of a car show."



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What is the most computer illiterate thing you've witnessed? : AskReddit

What is the most computer illiterate thing you've witnessed? : AskReddit: "Back when I was a med student I used to follow senior colleagues all day long and I was getting pretty used to the whole two-finger typing 1 inch from the keyboard and 2s double click delay thing, but nothing could have prepared me for what I witnessed one day at the maternity ward.
I was co-piloting the senior physician, a woman in her 50's, when after I had asked her a question she went for the computer to look up an illustrative picture of what she was trying to explain. After settling down at the computer and finishing the obligatory locating-the-mouse-cursor dance she then proceeded with the following:"



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▶ 9 free tools that make Windows much better | PCWorld

▶ 9 free tools that make Windows much better | PCWorld: "Windows is packed to the rafters with features, many of them great—and others, just meh. Luckily, there are free alternatives that are more powerful, more efficient, and take only minutes to install. Read on, and we’ll show you 9 built-in features of Windows that aren’t up to snuff, and the free software you can use to replace them"



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4 Hidden Window Management Tricks on the Windows Desktop

4 Hidden Window Management Tricks on the Windows Desktop: "Windows has quite a few features for autoamtically arranging windows, placing them side by side or tiling them on your screen. These features are a bit hidden, so you may not have noticed them.

We used Windows 7 here, but all of these tricks also work on Windows 8 except the ones that require the Task Manager. Many of the tricks also work with earlier versions of Windows."



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HTG Explains: What Is BIOS and When Should I Use It?

HTG Explains: What Is BIOS and When Should I Use It?: "The BIOS on your computer is essential for it to function, yet it remains behind the scenes. In this article, you will discover what this hidden software does, and the reasons why you may need to access it someday.

What is BIOS"



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Inside app uses your phone's sensors for indoor navigation — www.gizmag.com

Inside app uses your phone's sensors for indoor navigation — www.gizmag.com: "Due to those pesky roofs that block access to satellites, smartphone-based GPS systems don't work for navigating indoor environments such as shopping malls. Some non-GPS alternatives are in development, including ones that incorporate rapidly-blinking LED lights or Wi-Fi signals. The just-announced Inside app, however, utilizes the phone's own standard sensors, and is reportedly accurate up to a distance of down to one meter (3.3 ft)."



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Amazon Prime Was Too Good to Be True After All — www.wired.com

Amazon Prime Was Too Good to Be True After All — www.wired.com: "The price of “free” two-day shipping is about to go up. That was the message from Amazon executives last week, who said that shipping costs would probably force them to raise the price of the company’s popular Amazon Prime program. Now $79 per year, the cost could go up $20 to $40 more."



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What are the Dangers of an Untrusted USB Drive? — www.howtogeek.com

What are the Dangers of an Untrusted USB Drive? — www.howtogeek.com: "Using trusted USB drives that you own on your up to date, well-secured operating system is one thing, but what if your best friend stops by with their USB drive and wants you to copy some files to it? Does your friend’s USB drive pose any risks to your well-secured system, or is it just baseless fear?"



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Do You Know What Sites & Apps Have Access to Your Google Account?

Do You Know What Sites & Apps Have Access to Your Google Account?: "While doing our regular security audit of all the accounts tied to the HTG site, we noticed something interesting: Inside your Google account settings there is a list of any site or app that you’ve given access to, and the list might surprise you. Time for a checkup!"



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Google HP Chromebook 11 lands in Australia | ZDNet

Google HP Chromebook 11 lands in Australia | ZDNet: "First, it was Samsung, then Acer, and now HP has joined the chromebook bandwagon, releasing the HP Chromebook 11 in the Australian market — almost two years since the first chromebooks went on sale in June 2011.

Designed for business users in mind, the 11-inch laptop boasts that its sleek design can fit easily into a bag or purse and has more than six hours of battery life, which can be recharged using the juice of an Android phone or tablet through a micro-USB connection."



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Logitech PowerShell Controller + Battery Review - watch CNET's video review - Mobile Phone Accessories

Logitech PowerShell Controller + Battery Review - watch CNET's video review - Mobile Phone Accessories: "Do you need buttons to play games on your iPhone? Certainly not. And yet, iOS MFi-certified game controllers are here, giving you the promise of full game controller-like support and letting you theoretically use your phone or iPod Touch like a little Nintendo 3DS or PlayStation Vita."



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E Ink vs. LCD: Which Screen is Best For Reading? — www.howtogeek.com

E Ink vs. LCD: Which Screen is Best For Reading? — www.howtogeek.com: "There are two big choices when it comes to reading eBooks. You can go with either a dedicated eReader, like a Kindle Paperwhite, or a tablet with an LCD screen, like an iPad — but which is best?

The big difference between the two classes of device — eReader and tablet — is the type of screen they have. eReaders have E Ink screens, while tablets have LCD screens. This makes all the difference."



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How to Reduce Data Usage When Browsing the Web on a Smartphone — www.howtogeek.com

How to Reduce Data Usage When Browsing the Web on a Smartphone — www.howtogeek.com: "When you don’t have unlimited mobile data on your Android or iPhone, every megabyte counts. Mobile browsers like Google Chrome and Opera offer a built in data compression feature, allowing you to browse with less data.

There are only a few small trade-offs here. If you want to use less data, enabling this feature will allow you to browse all the same websites with little noticeable difference."



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How To Create A Custom Windows 8 Installation ISO

How To Create A Custom Windows 8 Installation ISO: "What makes re-installing Windows painful is the waiting around for a few keystrokes and post-installation chores. Windows 8 installs in mere minutes, but you still have to accept the EULA, manually enter your 25 digit serial number, and apply Windows updates once the installation itself is completed. If you’re eager to optimize this process, here is a way to customize your Windows 8 installation."



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What’s the Best Antivirus and How Do I Choose One?

What’s the Best Antivirus and How Do I Choose One?: "There are a huge amount of antivirus programs to choose from, so how do you find the best one? Do you use what came with your computer or what your friend recommended? How do you know if it’s any good?

Antivirus test organizations test antivirus products every month, ranking them on their effectiveness, performance, and usability. You don’t have to fly blind when choosing an antivirus; you can make an informed decision."



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Why I Use Snapchat: It's Fast, Ugly and Ephemeral - NYTimes.com

Why I Use Snapchat: It's Fast, Ugly and Ephemeral - NYTimes.com: "“Question: Do you use Snapchat?” a friend asked me in a text message last week. “I can’t find anyone that actually uses it.”

As I began to type a reply, admitting that I actually do use the service, which lets your messages disappear after they are viewed for up to 10 seconds, the friend followed up with another text: “Well, not true, my kids use it all the time.”"



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Android App Warns When You’re Being Watched — www.technologyreview.com

Android App Warns When You’re Being Watched — www.technologyreview.com: "A new app notifies people when an Android smartphone app is tracking their location, something not previously possible without modifying the operating system on a device, a practice known as “rooting.”"



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Use Paragon's Backup Tools With Windows BitLocker to Protect Against Data Loss and Unauthorized Access — hardware.itbusinessnet.com

Use Paragon's Backup Tools With Windows BitLocker to Protect Against Data Loss and Unauthorized Access — hardware.itbusinessnet.com: "Approximately 60% of all computers sold worldwide today are portable. Portable computers are taken everywhere: home, vacations, or business trips. It makes them an easy target for criminals, especially for the private data they contain. Flash drives are also an easy theft target. Even a failed hard drive that you send back to your vendor for warranty is a potential threat to your private intellectual property. How can your personal data be protected? With one word - encryption!"



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The Importance Of Computers In Our Daily Lives — www.pixuffle.net

The Importance Of Computers In Our Daily Lives — www.pixuffle.net: "In the current world, it’s almost impossible to imagine that someone can live  without computers. Computers have become an electronic device of almost every day use for individuals of every age. They are essential in almost all the business dealings that are made nowadays. The most that any industry has gained from the discovery of the computers is the business industry because of its nature. Computers have gained significance as they have improved the efficiency and productivity of work done. Large amounts of information in industrial and business sectors as well as in the personal lives are stored on computers."



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Amazing things thatbring positive results

Amazing things thatbring positive results — www.gamecockcomputers.com: "Tough computers have become an important part of our daily life; we still are unaware of certain facts about this electronic machine and software installed in it. No matter whether you are new to use a PC or you have been using it since years, you still face certain circumstances where you get stuck and look here and there for answers which could satisfy you the most."



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The human factor vs computers - Chess.com

The human factor vs computers - Chess.com: "Has anybody any thoughts about how a chess program acts when  the postitions are about equal by strength. Will a chess program  try to get the upper hand by doing random (non offensive moves) waiting for the opponent to loose his patience?"



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Yes, It’s Okay to Shut Down Your Computer With the Power Button — www.howtogeek.com

Yes, It’s Okay to Shut Down Your Computer With the Power Button — www.howtogeek.com: "Many computer users were trained never to turn their PCs off by pressing the power button on their desktop PC’s case. This used to cause problems in the previous millennium, but it’s now perfectly safe to shut down with the power button."



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How to Use Custom App Icons on Your Kindle Fire (or Any Android Device) — www.howtogeek.com

How to Use Custom App Icons on Your Kindle Fire (or Any Android Device) — www.howtogeek.com: "Unlike Google-supplied Android apps, the apps from the Amazon Apps for Android store have incredibly high resolution (a requirement for crisp display in the Kindle OS application carousel). Sideloaded apps, however, don’t get the Amazon treatment and come with fuzzy low-res icons. Read on as we show you how to fix your low-res icon woes."



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How to Add PC Settings to Your Windows 8.x Start Screen — www.howtogeek.com

How to Add PC Settings to Your Windows 8.x Start Screen — www.howtogeek.com: "You can easily access the PC Settings screen in Windows 8.1… by swiping on the right side of the screen, and then clicking on Settings, and then finally clicking on PC Settings at the bottom of the window. Since that’s a pain, here is how to pin it to your Start Screen."



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