Entries for the ‘Internet Connection’ Category

30 Jan
2010

The Basics of Computer Freezes, What Causes Them, and How to Repair Them

Posted by Kat

If you are experiencing computer freezes, then you are familiar with the dread, frustration, and headaches that goes along with them. Your computer seems to freeze at random. You have no idea why and are forced to do a hard boot to get your computer up and running again. This is a big hit to your productivity and the time it takes to do your day-to-day activities.

The Root Cause of Computer Freeze
The cause of computer freezes is rooted in your registry, which is the core programming of your Windows operating system. The registry effects everything you do on your PC.  If there are any corrupt or missing files in your registry, you will start to see computer freezes and other errors. To say that errors in your registry are bad is to put it mildly; in fact, errors in your registry can prove to be catastrophic.

Manual Repair of Computer Freezes

1.    The simplest way to fix a computer freeze is to use the CTRL-ALT-Delete function.  Hopefully, you have saved the information that you are working on.  The computer will advise you which programs are causing problems.

2.    If that doesn’t work, hold your power button down and shut off the computer.  After that, you will want to take the power cord off and let the computer sit for about ten minutes.

3.    Check your fan to see if the computer is running hot.  While you’re at it, give it a quick once over for with an aerosol computer duster.

4.    If it freezes with the Browser, try reinstalling your browser.

5.    Try running a virus scan, too.

6.    Check your Internet connection to make sure it is stable.

If you still have problems, look into a tool that will help maintain your computer’s registry and check for errors.

What You Can Do to Prevent System Crashes
The good news is that today there is a kind of program that specializes in fixing registry errors. These programs are called registry cleaners. These programs don’t just fix corrupt registry keys, they also fill in missing registry keys and remove empty registry keys, which can cause computer freezing problems too.

To learn more and repair your computer freezes visit http://optimize-your-pc.com/regcure/regcure_blog.


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6 Jan
2010

4 Easy Ways to Repair that JavaScript Error

Posted by Kat

Do you have a JavaScript error that’s messing with your browser? A JavaScript error can inhibit common web features like rich media, pop-up windows, expandable menus, and much more. The good news is that it’s remarkably easy to fix the majority of JavaScript problems. Here are a few common methods for resolving JavaScript errors.

A.    Verify that your browser is the culprit.

Sometimes, bad code or a malfunctioning website can fail to execute JavaScript. So, you should definitely open a new browser and try to access the website that is giving you errors. Also, access the website from another computer entirely. If you encounter the same errors on the other computer and browser, then the website is at fault, not your system.

B.    Disable Script Debugging

On the other hand, you might be able to fully interact with the website, but error messages continue to bother you for no reason. In this case, you need to turn off script debugging.  Here’s how to disable script debugging:

  1. Open Internet Explorer.
  2. Select the Tools menu.
  3. Click Internet Options.
  4. Go to the Advanced tab.
  5. Uncheck the box next to the text “Display a notification about every script error.”
  6. Click OK.

C.    Check your Active Scripting, Java, and ActiveX Settings.

All web browsers require that you enable certain features to display scripts. If active scripting, ActiveX, or Java have been disabled, your browser won’t properly read and run scripts. As a result, JavaScript errors will pop up everywhere. Here’s how to check your scripting settings:

  1. Open Internet Explorer.
  2. Click the Tools menu.
  3. Select Internet Options.
  4. The Internet Options dialog box will open. Click the Security tab.
  5. Select Default Level.
  6. Click OK.

If you have set the Security level to High, then ActiveX and Java will be automatically disabled. Once you have reset the Security level to custom, you should close your browser, reopen it, and test the webpage that was causing problems.

D.    Clean the Registry

These errors can persist, even if you troubleshoot them using the methods listed above. If you haven’t already run a registry cleaner, it’s imperative that you install one.

Since the registry contains all of your system’s information, all errors will be stored there. A good registry cleaner finds these errors and removes them from your system.

As a preventative measure, you should run a registry cleaner once every few months. This will resolve current errors and prevent future ones. Blast that JavaScript error into smithereens so you can surf the Web smoothly.

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3 Jan
2010

Destroy your JavaScript Problem for Smooth Surfing

Posted by Kat

A JavaScript problem will make it very difficult to browse the Web. JavaScript powers have many rich online features. This makes it necessary to repair a JavaScript problem so that you can work online or surf the Web.

How does JavaScript work?

The majority of web developers use JavaScript to build rich interfaces and dynamic, media-driven websites. As such, you’ll find JavaScript on the majority of websites you visit. There are a few common issues that cause JavaScript errors. It’s easy to resolve these, however.

Pop-up blockers can create JavaScript problems. Your browser will need to read scripts in order to open windows such as shopping carts, interactive menus, and dynamic displays. Pop-up blockers will prevent your computer from reading these scripts. So, it’s very likely you’ll encounter JavaScript errors if you have enabled a popup blocker.

Disable Pop-Up Blockers and Enable Active Scripting

Here’s how to disable your pop-up blocker (Internet Explorer 8 and Mozilla Firefox 3.5.)

Internet Explorer 8 (Windows)

  1. Click the “Tools” menu located on the right side of the Internet Explorer Tab.
  2. Highlight the “Pop-up Blocker” setting.
  3. Click “Turn Off Pop-up Blocker.”

Mozilla Firefox 3.5 (Windows)

  1. Select the “Tools” menu.
  2. Click “Options.”
  3. Select the “Content” option.
  4. Uncheck the checkbox next to “Block Popup Windows.”

If you haven’t enabled active scripting, then you’ll probably run into some problems with JavaScript. Active Scripting basically gives your browser permission to run scripts on various web pages. It’s quite simple to check and see if you have enabled Active Scripting. Here’s how:

Internet Explorer 8 (Windows)

  1. Click the “Tools” menu.
  2. Select “Internet Options.”
  3. Go to “Security.”
  4. Click “Custom Level.”
  5. Check the box next to “Enable Active Scripting.”

Mozilla Firefox 3.5 (Windows)

  1. In the menu bar, click “Tools.”
  2. Select “Options.”
  3. Click the tab labeled “Content.”
  4. Check the box next to “Enable JavaScript.”
  5. Click OK.
  6. Exit Mozilla, and then reopen it.

How Registry Cleaners Resolve JavaScript Problems

If you are still encountering JavaScript problems, then you need to clean your system’s registry. The registry stores all of your computer’s information, good and bad, so you can wipe out all errors by thoroughly cleaning the registry.

Download and install a good registry cleaner. The registry cleaner will scan your registry for errors and automatically repair them. These programs can efficiently resolve JavaScript errors. If you haven’t been able to fix these errors using the methods listed above, then the registry cleaner will resolve them,

You should run your registry cleaner once a month so that you can prevent new errors from appearing. Registry cleaners will help maintain your system and keep it running at optimal performance.

Repair JavaScript problems so that your browser can load and display rich media on the Web.


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2 Jan
2010

How to Repair JavaScript with Active Scripting and Reinstallation

Posted by Kat

It’s usually very simple to repair JavaScript errors. Since JavaScript problems are almost always associated with your web browser, all you need to do to repair JavaScript errors is follow a few easy steps.

What does JavaScript do?

The majority of websites nowadays employ some sort of JavaScript within their dynamic applications, animations, and displays. JavaScript helps build the rich media you find on some of your favorite websites. As such, you need to make sure JavaScript is functioning properly so that you can properly browse the web.

Active Scripting

Many JavaScript errors arise simply because active scripting is disabled on the browser. You need to make sure you enable active scripting. Active scripting will permit JavaScript to perform its necessary functions. Follow these steps to enable active scripting:

  1. Click Tools.
  2. Select Internet Options.
  3. Go to the Security tab.
  4. Click the zone labeled “Internet.”
  5. You might be prompted to modify or customize your security settings. If you have to customize them, click Custom Level. If not, click Default Level.
  6. If you clicked Custom Level, then the Security Settings-Internet Zone dialog box will appear. Look for the Scripting section, and click Enable Active Scripting. If you clicked Default Level, just click OK.
  7. Refresh your web browser to see if you can run scripts.

Check Your Browser

A JavaScript error can indicate that your browser is malfunctioning. You may be running an old version of your browser, or your browser may not have been installed completely. If this is the case, it’s a good idea to uninstall and reinstall your browser. Here’s how to uninstall Internet Explorer 8 if you’re running Windows 7:

  1. Close all programs and applications.
  2. Click Start.
  3. Select Control Panel.
  4. Click Programs.
  5. Click Uninstall Program.
  6. The Tasks pane will open. Select ‘Turn Windows Features On or Off”
  7. Uncheck the checkbox next to Internet Explorer 8.
  8. When the warning dialog box appears, click Yes.

Before you reinstall Internet Explorer, ensure that you have disabled your anti-spyware and anti-virus programs. You’ll also want to turn off any third-party firewalls. Once you’ve reinstalled Internet Explorer 8, you can enable these programs again.

You can also try installing and running a registry cleaner. Registry cleaners are great tools that can quickly identify and remove JavaScript errors. They also function well at resolving other errors, such as DirectX errors or problems associated with your operating system. Repair JavaScript errors rapidly to maintain your browser’s functionality and efficiency.


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1 Jan
2010

Fix JavaScript Errors in A Few Easy Steps

Posted by Kat

It’s usually quite simple to fix JavaScript bugs. Since JavaScript is a crucial part of your web browsing experience, you’ll need to fix JavaScript errors so that you can fully interact with the websites that you browse. JavaScript or other scripting errors can interfere with your ability to view content on many websites.

Watch out for Interfering Programs

Some machines that are running Windows 7, Vista, or XP may have trouble with running JavaScript on Internet Explorer 7 or 8. Often, external software such as pop-up blockers can interfere with JavaScript’s functionality. You might need to disable this software if you want to get JavaScript to start working.

The first thing you have to do is make sure that you have enabled JavaScript add-ons. Look in the Tools tab and select the Manage Add-Ons menu. Make sure you’ve enabled JavaScript by looking at the Toolbars and Extensions.

Active Scripting

Also, make sure you have enabled Active Scripting. If active scripting is disabled, JavaScript will not work properly with your web browser. Here’s how to enable Active Scripting:

Internet Explorer

  1. In Internet Explorer, click Tools.
  2. Select Internet Options.
  3. Click the tab labeled Security.
  4. Select Custom Level.
  5. A Security Settings dialog box will appear.
  6. Go to Scripting of Java applets.
  7. Click Enable.
  8. Click OK.

Firefox

  1. Click Edit.
  2. Go to Preferences.
  3. The Preferences dialog box will open.
  4. Click Advanced.
  5. Select Scripts and Plugins.
  6. Check the Navigator checkbox.
  7. Click OK.

If JavaScript is ostensibly enabled but you are still suffering from JavaScript errors, then you need to uninstall and then reinstall your web browser. It’s best to run the Windows Installer Cleanup Utility when uninstalling your web browser.

A manual uninstall of your web browser can still result in a bunch of leftover files. The Cleanup Utility will thoroughly uninstall all files associated with your browser so that you can start fresh. You can download the Windows Cleanup Utility here.

Uninstall and Reinstall the Web Browser

Here’s a simple way to completely uninstall the web browser using the Windows Cleanup Utility:

  1. Open the Windows Installer Cleanup Dialog Box.
  2. Click the Installed Products list.
  3. Select the malfunctioning web browser.
  4. Click Remove.

Make sure you also remove files associated with the program in the Add/Remove Programs menu.

Once you’ve done this, you’ll need to reinstall the browser. Make sure that you download the latest version of your browser. Then, open the browser and test it. If you are able to visit most websites without a pesky JavaScript error, then you’ve solved the problem.

You can also use a registry cleaner to fix JavaScript errors. Some registry cleaners are especially known for their ability to resolve JavaScript problems quickly. Select a registry cleaner that targets JavaScript errors, and you’ll be browsing at your full potential in no time. Fix JavaScript errors as soon as they surface and keep your web browser running strong.


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7 Nov
2009

How to Determine if Your Winsock.dll File is Corrupted

Posted by Kat

If you’re seeing some kind of error message containing the winsock.dll file, it may seem pretty obvious that this particular registry file is causing your error.  However, some winsock.dll errors do not manifest themselves with such a clear explanation.  In those instances, you will need to determine whether the winsock registry key is really the problem using a few Microsoft-recommended steps.

Testing Winsock.dll Corruption

In Windows XP, it is possible to use a manual process to determine if the winsock registry key is responsible for the internet errors manifesting themselves on your PC.  You’ll need to have Microsoft Windows XP Support Tools installed on your computer first.  This program is conveniently located on your Windows XP Setup CD, in case you do not have it installed yet.

1. Insert the Setup CD.

2. Find the folder Support\Tools and choose the “Setup.exe” file.

3. The Install Wizard will guide you through the installation.  When you come to “Select an Installation Type,” choose “Complete,” and go to “Next.”

Using the Netdiag Tool

Once Support Tools are installed, you can use the Netdiag Tool to check various internet connections, and the winsock key specifically.

1. Click on “Start” and choose “Run.”

2. Type “Command” in the box and click on “OK.”

3. Type ” netdiag /test:winsock ” (no quotes), and then hit ENTER on your keyboard.

This will return a “test results” for various components of your network and internet connection.  If the winsock.dll file fails the test, then you know that this is the cause of the errors, and you will have to take steps to fix the problem.

Fixing Winsock Registry Key Corruption

Since this file is a part of the Windows registry, there are a number of possible causes of corruption of the winsock.dll file.  The registry has to do with user preferences, program settings, and other files that have to do with how your computer performs everyday tasks.  Deleting an old program or adding a new one can cause damage to the registry in some cases.

While you can search Microsoft’s Support Center for a manual method to restore the winsock.dll file, it involves editing the registry, which can be a tricky operation.  The easiest way to fix this registry key is to use a registry cleaning program.  The Windows registry undergoes constant change–whenever you change user preferences, add or delete programs, or even turn the computer off and on, entries are made or changed in the registry.

A registry cleaner will restore corrupted registry entries and clean up unnecessary ones.    Specifically, use a registry cleaner to fix winsock.dll and avoid having to manually edit the registry.

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22 Oct
2009

2 Major Benefits of ActiveX Controls and Keeping Them Running Clean

Posted by Kat

ActiveX controls are the building blocks of Microsoft ActiveX technology that enable web developers to customize their websites by adding media that is viewable by downloading the controls.  Some Windows programs such as Windows Explorer and Windows Media Player to enable navigation and usability also utilize ActiveX controls.  Though there are a few downsides, ActiveX controls provide many benefits for PC users and internet goers.

  1. Functionality of ActiveX Controls: The most obvious benefit of ActiveX controls is their functionality.  They enable computer users to utilize programs such as Windows Media and Windows Explorer and help enrich internet experience on the Internet Explorer and Firefox web browsers.  This unique programming language makes navigation quick and easy and gives a means for PC users to interact with their computer.
  2. Quick Interaction with Internet Browser: Probably the most attractive benefit of ActiveX controls is the fact that they enable quick interaction with web pages and email messages by using pre-existing components.  This means fewer control downloads, less space taken up, and smooth running of Internet Explorer.

Though ActiveX components mainly only operate with Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox, they have a greater level of control over Windows than Java applets do.  This makes them more powerful than Java applets when it comes to interacting and controlling Windows components.

Though the benefits are positive attributes to your PC use and internet browsing, prevent corruption of ActiveX controls on your system registry with regular maintenance.  Download and utilize a good registry cleaner to keep your ActiveX controls in check and to keep your registry clear of errors.  This will overall improve and optimize your PC’s performance.


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12 Mar
2009

Restrict Access to Your Wi-Fi at Home

Posted by Ruel

 

When shopping for a wireless router, the first detail that you’ll most likely look for is its signal strength. Indeed, you wouldn’t want any dead spot ruining your 50-gigabyte download. The good news is many of today’s routers can easily blanket your house with Wi-Fi. They’re already so powerful and efficient that your next door neighbor could effortlessly pick up signals from your overzealous Wi-Fi distributor.

Unless your neighbors are as trustworthy as your dog, sharing wireless Internet with them may not be exactly a wise move. For one thing, having too many computers sipping through your router may slowdown your surfing speed. Some ISPs are also setting limits on monthly bandwidths, so you might end up hitting your quota in just a week if you continue to be a good Samaritan to them.

But the strongest argument against sharing Wi-Fi with neighbors is the possibility of data theft. The fact that they could access your router or wireless Internet means that they could also very possibly access your computer, too.

This doesn’t mean that you should buy routers that have weak signals. If you want to rival Starbuck’s Wi-Fi strength, then by all means buy the best router that your budget allows. Just make sure that you limit the number of persons who could have access to your personal network. You could easily do this by setting up a password for your router. Another method by which you could restrict or regulate access is by pre-defining the hardware which could access your network.

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20 Jun
2008

Make Your PC Child-Friendly

Posted by Ruel

Don’t you find it amazing that kids as young as 3 years old are already tapping their fragile fingers at keyboards? Let’s face it, generation X, Y, and the coming Zs will be exposed to computers as early as their first year outside the womb.

Time will come when kids at primary school will be more literate than us when it comes to computers. Whether or not their first experience with the PC will be pleasant or frustrating depends largely on us adults. We all know that malicious and pernicious materials abound in the Web, and we can’t monitor or filter everything that they read, see, or download in cyberspace.

One of the best ways by which we could ensure that they won’t stray to forbidden Web sites is by installing applications that restrict child movement in cyberspace. This also protects them from logging on to Web sites that disseminate files that are infected with malware.

Invest in programs that put virtual barb wire around your PC whenever it’s connected to the Internet. Antivirus and registry cleaners are must haves. As for Web site filters, there are various applications available in the market. Check your Web browser’s maker if they’re offering a free add-on or built-in filter. This could save you a few bucks. But don’t scrimp on security software, though. They are very good investments.

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9 Jun
2008

What Causes Slow Browse?

Posted by Ruel

In this age where dial-up is already extinct and 1Mbps is considered as just a trickle, one would definitely be up in arms if his Internet connection chokes or coughs up kbps phlegm. An uprising is definitely in place considering that Internet Service Providers are now promising 20-foot waves whenever you surf the Net using their surfboards.

While many ISPs are notorious for exaggerating their connection speeds, they are not actually the usual suspects when your bandwidth slims down to a needle thread. Indeed, they wouldn’t dare you into jamming their customer service phone lines by scrimping you on your broadband diet.

Surfing With Malware

Not every slow browse is caused by greedy ISPs, though. Most of the time, the problem lies in your PC. If you haven’t invested in an antivirus program or in a registry cleaner, such as RegCure, then chances are is that your Web browser is being choked by malware. Malware is considered to be one of the major causes, if not the primary cause, of slow browse. If your ISP insists that the problem is not at their end, then you could bet your modem that it is coming from yours. Fortunately for you, slow Web browsing caused by malware could easily be spiked up by simply running your antivirus and registry cleaner. Those programs easily fix slow browses in a jiffy by ridding your browser of its excess baggage.

Update Your Browser

If your PC is as clean as a sterile gauze and your ISP insists that it is providing you with tsunami waves to surf on, then your problem probably lies on your Web surfboard. Faulty browsers could definitely make Web surfing a drag. Visit Microsoft or Firefox’s Web sites and see if they already have a new version. Check for patches, too, as browsers with too many holes are susceptible to malware attacks. We all know what those malicious software could do, so be diligent in searching for updates.

Unplug Your Plug-ins

If you could still finish singing Beyonce’s latest single while waiting for a Web site to completely load up or appear on your screen, then your browser might have some problems with its plug-ins. Plug-ins are small applications that enhances programs by adding functions or features to it. Many of these programs are made for browsers. They’re definitely welcome add-ons to Internet Explorer or Firefox. However, faulty plug-ins could also slow down your browser. The best way to know if this is your slow browse culprit is by disabling your add-ons or by choosing to open a version or copy of your browser that has no cosmetics on it. You could do this in IE 7 by clicking Start • All Programs • Accessories • System Tools • Internet Explorer (No Add-ons). If you’re using firefox, just click on Tools • Add-ons, then disable the items listed as your browser’s plug-ins.

Before you call up your ISP and complain that your DSL or wireless Internet connection is acting up like a dial-up, check your bandwidth meter and see if your service provider is really the guilty party. If you don’t have one, download a copy at Cnet or PC World.

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