Another Day With My PC

If you think that this is the ultimate insult to Vista Ultimate, then you need to think again. That joke has already been played even before the new Microsoft OS was released, so its scathing effect has already been blunted. Redmond was also expecting remarks to this effect, too. What it didn’t expect, though, is for PCs to be still running on XP long after Vista has been released.

Indeed, persisting consumer skepticism, along with claims that Vista Ultimate performs below par compared to its predecessor, is the ultimate slap to its authors. Snide remarks on Vista’s price tag are nothing compared to comments as to its real value.

I don’t know how long PC users would continue to doubt or question the need to shift to the new Microsoft OS. XP’s not getting any younger, though. Time will definitely come when all PCs will ultimately be under Vista Ultimate’s realm…that is if a new Microsoft OS won’t jump over it.

Are you unhappy with your current operating system?

Changing the program that calls the shots in your computer is not as simple as installing and uninstalling regular applications in your PC. Aside from the fact that an OS is probably the largest tenant in your hard drive, every program’s existence also depends on it. Don’t get me wrong, though. I’m not discouraging you from changing OS. All I’m saying is that there are many things to consider before you decide to make an upgrade or make a switch.

Is Your Hardware Tough Enough?

The first thing that you have to consider is your hardware. If the unit you’re currently using is being powered by a Pentium II processor and is still running on Windows 95, then you should shelve your plans of installing Vista in it. Units that are more than two years old probably do not have the strength and stamina to carry Vista on their shoulders. Adding a few memory modules and overclocking your processor might do the trick, though. However, you may just be speeding up its demise by doing so as overclocking could fry or wear out the chip and the motherboard.

Will Your Old Apps Work?

The second thing that you have to consider is your existing applications. There are some programs that might not work with the new (or old) operating system. If you’re bent on keeping your old applications, make sure that there are drivers available for download that would make them compatible with the OS that you intend to install. You could check the Web site of your software’s manufacturer for drivers or patches. If you don’t want to go through the trouble of rummaging through links or pages for the driver that you need, then you may want to install or subscribe to a Web service that does this dirty job for you.

Oil and Water

Another thing to consider is compatibility. I guess by now you already know that Macs and PCs are like oil and water – they simply don’t mix. This is very important especially if you’re constantly trading files or collaborating with somebody on a particular application. It would be pointless to have an OS which would not allow you to do tasks with others. You’ll be a virtual untouchable in school or in the office if you use an OS that is incompatible with the one that the majority uses.

While an operating system is classified a program, it’s in a class that is separate and distinct from all the other applications. Your computer’s performance depends on the OS that it is running on. So choose wisely.

I was scouring the Web for new applications that could enhance Windows XP when I stumbled upon SaveXP.com. As the site’s name suggests, it is a group which is petitioning Microsoft to keep its most successful software in the market for a period longer than the one that Bill Gates has in mind.

While I have lamented that XP’s plotted demise is too early and still uncalled for, I have already resigned to the impending fact that PC users would eventually forget their old fling and fall in love with the new OS. I was wrong. More users are now realizing that Vista’s advantage over XP is just skin-deep. Problems that hound the new OS when it was first released, such as compatibility problems and speed issues, still hover above it at present.

Time has already perfected XP. It’s unfortunate that its maker decided to axe it when everybody has started hailing it as “the one.” I guess Microsoft should’ve just released a new Service Pack for XP and overhauled its exteriors instead of releasing a new version which everybody thinks is a poor upgrade (if it’s even an upgrade) of its predecessor.

I don’t know if Microsoft will give in to the pressure. To date, there are 208,461 who have signed the petition to save XP. It’s going to be 208,462 after I log out of the site. I’m all for efficiency, and it’s my opinion that optimization could be better performed at a tried and tested operating system rather than on a program that seems to be still half-baked.

Don’t you just hate the fact that Mac users just seem to have it all? They have the coolest brand, the hippest laptops, and the sleekest operating system. If you own an Intel/PC-based laptop that’s running on Windows, you definitely know what I’m talking about.

If those facts (disputable) are not enough to make you sinfully envious, then check out PC Mech’s article regarding the file systems which Mac OS X and Windows use. Although the article is littered with geeky gobbledygook, it simply says that Apple’s operating system is virtually maintenance free compared to Windows XP and Vista in terms of defragmenting.

Despite the seeming lead of Mac over Windows, I still prefer the latter because of its superior compatibility with every program available in the market. Maybe the reason why the occurrence of file fragmentation is low in Mac systems is because there are few programs or files that are compatible with OS X (I sound like Bill Gates sour graping over Steve Jobs’ success ).  Just kidding.

There’s no reason for us PC/Windows users to envy Mac people that much. We have excellent system tools which make our lives a little bit less complicated like the ones that our Mac counterparts have.  Support and compatibility is our advantage.  Even though Windows is unceasingly being attacked by various types of malware, the most widely-used OS is backed and defended by all known antivirus and registry cleaners available. So what’s the worry? :)

The thing that I really hate about malware attack or OS malfunction is data loss. I could deal with having to reinstall applications or even reformat my hard drive. While they may be time-consuming, they’re nothing compared to the time that you’ll spend in rewriting or recreating the files that have been damaged or deleted.

Antivirus

There are many ways by which one could prevent data loss, first and foremost of which is by installing security suites. The saying that “an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure” also holds true with regard to PC health. Indeed, why flirt or invite disaster when you could rid yourself of the worries from the start by making sure that no unwanted programs would be able to access your system. True, antivirus programs could cure and treat infected files. However, there are cases where files get corrupted beyond repair.

Backup

While antivirus programs are very effective in keeping your PC secured from unwanted intrusions, they are not 100% fool-proof. There will come a time when malware would be able to break through the wall and infect your system. When this happens, there’s pretty much nothing that you could do about it other than to resort and to restore the second or third copies of the files that got destroyed.

Since security suites are not a hundred percent reliable, you have to take another precautionary measure in order to ensure that you won’t lose the precious files in your hard drive. A very simple but efficient and practical solution to possible data loss is by backing up. This task or procedure is not complicated. Backing up data simply means making second copies thereof and saving them in another media.

Brainless Task

You don’t need a program in order to perform this task. However, doing it manually can be quite tedious, especially if you have thousands of files saved in your hard disk and scattered in different folders. This is the reason why there are several back up programs in the market despite the fact that the task simply involves dragging folders into the disk where you intend to save your data.

You don’t need a third party software if you’re using Windows Vista, though. Backing up in Vista is an effortless task. Its back up feature takes care of everything from file selection to file destination. All you have to do in the process is to change the disks or drives whenever they’re already full. It’s as simple as that.

Save Often

Back up regularly. Take note that you’re adding new files or modifying existing ones everyday. The file that you’ve saved a month ago might already be entirely different from the one that you have right now. Make sure that the media where you’re going to save the file is reliable. DVD disks, as well as external hard drives, are among the dependable storage devices. Flash drives could also be viable alternatives. However, data could be easily erased therein.

While Microsoft is highlighting the technological advances of Vista as its main selling point, a considerable number of PC users don’t actually pay attention to the litany of new functions and features of the new operating system. This is especially true for those who are not tech-savvy.

Beauty is sometimes skin-deep. Such is also true for software. When Vista was first introduced almost a year ago, the first thing that many checked out was its new interface. It is only after they’ve scrutinized the program’s shell that they started to take notice of the flesh.

For those of you who want the touch and feel of Vista’s hide but are not yet ready to chew its meat, a freeware that replicates the new operating system’s interface could be the best temporary solution to your curiosity. It mimics Vista’s Start menu quite convincingly, as well as the program’s other artwork. It’s perfectly safe and it won’t affect system performance. Try it on. It might actually convince you to shift to Vista. But, then again, maybe not.

It’s Christmas Eve. The last thing that I should be doing is discussing PC problems with you guys. However, I can’t contain my excitement in sharing with you the gifts that I think I would be receiving.

On top of my list is a Mac notebook. Although many consider a Mac as a novelty rather than as a real functioning computer, I’m still excited with the thought of owning one. I’ve never had a Mac desktop or notebook before. My first PC was a 386SX clone. My mom almost bought me a Mac, but unfortunately (or fortunately), it was the Intel-based unit that was on sale.

While the PC and the Mac are starting to blend or morph into something that could seamlessly work together, differences still abound. This makes file sharing very difficult. And since 95% of the computers in the office are PC-based, the chances of successfully or productively using a Mac at the office are as slim as the latter’s new notebook.

Another present that I think I would be getting is a copy of Vista Ultimate. What I have in my new notebook is just a registered copy of Vista Home Basic. While the copy has already satisfied my curiosity as to how the new Microsoft OS looks and feels, it hasn’t allayed my fears with regard to dependability. If just for my peace of mind, I want the full (licensed, of course) copy Vista.

The license of my other system and security suites are already expiring, so I guess a good present for myself would be a new set of PC defenders. I’m thinking of trying a new antivirus for a change. Norton has already been my companion for almost a decade. While many regard it as the most reliable antivirus in the market, many are complaining that it’s making their system slow. I might try McAfee’s. Hmm maybe I’ll even try the freeware available in www.cnet.com or www.pcworld.com.

All of these might just be wishful thinking, though. I haven’t seen any box under our tree yet. Who knows, I might just be receiving gift checks or coffee mugs (again). I guess I’ll just be getting software license renewals (from me!!). While I may be contemplating on changing my antivirus, I will definitely be retaining my registry cleaner. RegCure has effectively kept my PC free from unwanted instructions brought about by malware attack or incomplete uninstall procedures.

My friends at the office usually wonder as to why their unit runs slower than mine considering that we’re using the same type of laptop. Even the applications that we have are also the same, except for the registry cleaner. The antivirus came in free when our boss gave the laptops to us. However, that was the only sentinel that came with the unit. My officemates were already contented in having a lone antivirus to protect their unit. I wasn’t. Judging by the way our units are running, I could definitely conclude that an antivirus is not enough in keeping and protecting a computer from things that could slow it down.

What is it about Microsoft and leaks?

NeoSmart Technologies has recently revealed that Windows XP’s third service pack will be featuring patches and updates that are primarily designed for Vista. The leak has fueled speculations that Microsoft is indeed bent on extending the life of its most successful OS by incorporating Vista technology into it.

Among the handful of Vista features inserted in SP3 include Network Access Protection (NAP). This security component functions as a filter, checking client PCs before they’re allowed to connect with other computers in a network.

Another Vista feature that will be incorporated in XP through SP3 is a new activation procedure that dispenses with tedious checkpoints and would allow users to immediately use or install the product without being asked for the activation key.

Windows XP SP3 will be made available by early next year. The new service pack brings a sigh of relief to millions of PC users who still haven’t shifted to the new OS as this would ensure the viability of the software for a few more years.

After spending a fortune on Windows Vista, you might think that your wallet may not be able to churn out a few bucks for other applications anymore. You may brag all you like on having the latest operating system, but it would practically mean nothing if you don’t have other programs. PCs can’t live on OS alone, you know?

While it may seem unlikely to others, there are many Vista freebies on the Internet. While the quantity and quality may not be as good as those available for XP, Vista apps are fast catching up with software made for its predecessor.

While many of you might be rummaging through the Web for free Vista games or media players, bespectacled techie persons, such as yours truly, are usually scouring for system tools and other utilities that could help us go around the new OS.

One such application that almost made me shout, Eureka!, is TweakVista. This free (trial) software allows you to go through and around Vista without a sweat. This tool from Stardock allows you to do a myriad of things, such as monitor system resources, optimize memory usage and CPU performance, and conduct benchmarking tasks.

While it may not be as sophisticated as Norton’s Systemworks, it has enough features that could help you get out of the forest if you ever (and you most probably will) get lost navigating around Vista. Of course, as PCs don’t live on Vista alone, it could not function reliably and efficiently without other system maintenance tools, such as registry cleaners. Security suites are also must-haves, too.

There are other free system tools available for Vista on the Web. Finding them might be tricky, but it will get a lot easier over time as software makers are doubling their efforts in complementing the new OS with their products.

Catholics have this belief that every child that is brought out in the world has original sin. This sin comes from mankind’s biblical ancestors, Adam and Eve. In order to get rid of original sin, the child has to be baptized. After being Christened, the child begins life without any burden of sin.

That sinless existence also comes a few times in a PC’s life. The system doesn’t bear the weight of any needless software during the time that it’s taken out of the box. Of course, a computer is practically helpless or useless without any application installed in it. The first burden that it has to carry, then, is the operating system.

First Sin?

Many consider Windows as the first sin or burden of a computer. Everything seems to be perfectly fast and smooth when a new PC conducts that first run or check in DOS or Linux. However, such pristine condition or impeccable performance won’t last long. As no PC could ever survive or be useful without embracing Apple or Microsoft’s religion, the commission of original sin is consequently inevitable.

Putting it to the Test

Of course, operating systems are made to make things easier for the user. Hence, it’s quite wrong to look at it as if it’s Pandora’s box. Of course, your system will definitely slow down once it begins to run on Windows or OS X. That’s just normal considering that DOS or Linux practically needs just a fraction of processing power in order for it to function. In contrast, Windows or OS X will definitely put processors to the test, especially if it’s a single core model.

Still Pure

Despite taking up a few gigabytes of hard drive real estate, as well as keeping task manager busy, your PC should still be able to run smoothly after the installation of XP, Vista, or OS X. I’ve installed XP on a Pentium M notebook with just 256 of RAM and it ran without a glitch. Navigating through the commands or windows was seamless. The ease by which I was able to go through things or tasks made me wonder for a short while if the specs of my notebook were mistakenly labeled.

Problem in Disguise?

Slow PC performance starts when you install the other applications. You’ll definitely feel the drag after you’ve installed an antivirus. It’s already a given that the presence of a security software in your system will slow it down. That’s a consequence that every PC user will face regardless of the processor that he has.

Some users try to solve the problem by getting rid of their antivirus altogether and just rely on their cautious nature to ferret out malware attacks. Of course, this is a reckless move. Antivirus or other system utilities will slow your PC down. However, the greatest drag or burden that keeps PCs from running at optimum speed comes from malicious applications and not from legitimate ones. You may not notice this immediately, but you’ll definitely be noticing your nails grow while waiting for your programs to load if you’ll let your system roam around cyberspace without any armor on it.

Necessary

Do not court disaster by dispensing with system utilities that you think would just waste hard drive space or slow down your system. Antivirus programs or registry cleaners may take up some space and may sometimes demand a good deal of processing power every time they’re scanning your PC for malicious instructions. The small inconveniences that you’ll experience from scans and clean ups are nothing compared to the major hard drive sweep that you’ll be doing when unwanted software starts squatting on your main disk.

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