MIT Online Classes For Free

From worldstart.com:

"How much do you think a typical four-year education at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT for short) would cost you? $228,040 (and that doesn’t even count books or Mt. Dew money!)

But how would you feel if I told you that you can take online courses from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology free of charge?

This amazing program is called MIT OpenCourseWare, and contains courses feature video lessons, power point presentations assignments, reading material and related course work. The project was announced in 2001 and has developed into a catalog of over 2,100 courses, covering nearly all subjects taught at the prestigious school. These are not brief overviews or simple summaries, but the actual course material and information taught to MIT students."

Read more here

PC Matic by PC Pitstop

Have you seen the PC Matic ads on TV? Bottom line is they suggest they will tune and clean your machine, even removing viruses. They pitch a FREE DOWNLOAD of PC Matic. They never mention a charge of any kind, leading, I would guess, many people to think that they could get a free tuning and cleanup with this free tool.

Well, the download of their program is free, but then who would ever charge one for a download? The charge comes after the free download for any program, but the catch is the program won't work until/unless you pay up front.

And so it is with PC Matic. To me it's a scam. Fortunately, at least in my experience, it is a clean scam in the sense that yes, you have to pay to get it to fix any of the many problems it finds, but once you realize that you have to pay you can quit the program and uninstall it through the control panel and by deleting one folder under Program Files.

I was curious enough to download and run it on both of my computers. After the download and execution of the program you will get a screen that looks like this (click to enlarge):

I ran this on my very clean and new desktop which has Windows 7. You can see that PC Matic found 20 problems that needed fixing and it came up with 2 advice items.

Notice in the lower right hand corner the tab that says "FIX ALL". On both systems on which I ran this I got variations of the above screen, and on both systems I clicked on "FIX ALL".

When I clicked on Fix All, the screen below popped up (click to enlarge):

Uh-oh! The free download of PC Matic has turned into a $49.99 ONE YEAR SUBSCRIPTION! That's right. If you pay the money you will be asked to pay it again after a year, and I don't have a clue about the quality of the product once you pay. This is very similar in appearance to the many rogue programs that plague us PC users these days. With the rogue programs they take your money, leave your system all messed up, and don't fix a darn thing.

I am guessing PC Matic may actually be a good product, but I don't know that since it did nothing for me.

So much for all the excitement about PC Matic as is displayed by the pretty young girl in the TV ads.

I was able to uninstall it on both machines (one XP and the other a W7) easily through the Control Panel. After doing that I found they left a folder under Program Files named Pitstop (that is the company name). I got rid of the folder with a simple delete.

So, net is no harm done, and no money spent, and no "problems" fixed.

If you want to keep your system clean and trouble-free, check out my recommended Security Baseline. It consists of programs that are really free!

If your system has problems and needs personal attention, call or write me for a fee-based, remote, online complete tuning and cleaning. As many of you know, I also make housecalls. PC Doctor contact information can be found here.

TuneUp Utilities 2013

I believe in this product. I use it on my 3 home computers. I recommend it.

What Is a 4G Network?

From David Pogue of the New York Times.

" November 7, 2012, 6:01 pm 9 Comments

From today’s mailbag:
Dear Mr. Pogue,
What is the difference between 4G and 4G LTE?
And my reply:
Well, 4G is supposed to mean 4G LTE.
But AT&T has come up with a network type that’s halfway in between 3G and LTE — something it calls 4G. It’s faster than 3G, but nowhere near as good as LTE. So all the other companies, like Verizon, use the term “4G LTE” to emphasize that they have real 4G — the super fast type. This explains why AT&T can advertise “the biggest 4G network” — because none of its competitors even count 4G area! For them, and for you, LTE is the really desirable network type."

How to Devise Passwords That Drive Hackers Away

This has always been a pet peeve of mine ever since I was IS Security Manager at a local hospital, I was amazed when I ran a password cracking program and saw the results. Many of you would probably not be surprised.

This comes from the New York Times.

"Not long after I began writing about cybersecurity, I became a paranoid caricature of my former self. It’s hard to maintain peace of mind when hackers remind me every day, all day, just how easy it is to steal my personal data.

Within weeks, I set up unique, complex passwords for every Web site, enabled two-step authentication for my e-mail accounts, and even covered up my computer’s Web camera with a piece of masking tape — a precaution that invited ridicule from friends and co-workers who suggested it was time to get my head checked."

Read more.....

Down the Shore

I spent many of my pre-teen & teen summer vacations "down the shore:", in the little town of Lavallette, NJ. Today Lavallette, like so many other places along the Northeast Atlantic coast,  lies devastated by hurricane Sandy.

This poem helps me think back to some of my earlier years and the wonderful memories of those halcyon days. I spent many, many hours at the Cozy Nooke. You see they had a pinball machine there!

"LAVALLETTE"
by Arthur J. Maglionico

I remember as a child the beaches soft, the ocean wild,
Friends who shared a dream back then, per chance that we would meet again.
I recall each suntanned face, each pretty girl, each hiding place,
The new Hellos, the sad Goodbyes,
The soft wind, and the starlit skies.
The families huddled in the sand, their hearts were warm, their spirit grand,
Stretching out beneath the sun, barefoot and with hair undone.
I can hear the ocean roar as waves caress the sunny shore,
With fishermen waiting patiently for a gift surrendered by the sea.
I remember distant sails, skimming over the salty trails,
I'd watch them slowly disappear, toward the open sea somewhere.
The Main Street always thrilled me so, with its Cozy Nooke and Movie Show,
And folks would drive from all around to gaze at this enchanted town.
Nowhere can there ever be a place like this one by the sea.
I'm much older now, and yet, my dreams are there Dear Lavallette.
May God's grace ever shine on you,
May your skies be clear and ocean blue,
Let it remain as soft and mild as I remember as a child.

Apple iPad mini first impressions

First time I have posted something from the Boy Genius Report web site, http://bgr.com. This new product has been given some rave reviews lately, and while it is still my position that I would like to have one, I am still not willing to spend money on yet another "computer". I do admit it would be a fun device to own, and if money were not a concern I'd probably buy one.


"Almost from the beginning, Apple (AAPL) has been rumored to have been looking at manufacturing a smaller iPad. While the company delivered in form factor, finish, materials, and quality, there has been one thing most industry watchers have wanted… a smaller price. Well, too bad. I have been wanting a smaller iPad for a long time, especially since the 3rd-generation iPad was thicker and heavier instead of thinner and lighter. It’s taken me a while to figure out Apple’s strategy here, but it’s actually quite simple."

Read the article here

Windows 8 Review

"Microsoft straps a tablet operating system to Windows 8. Should enthusiasts make the big upgrade? 

Windows 8 is not a want, it’s a necessity. Not for you, the consumer. For Microsoft.
We’d like to think that somewhere, somehow, a group of user interface experts like to meet up for lunch in one of Microsoft’s (likely) sprawling Redmond cafeterias. They talk about their days, their families, and how horrified they are at Microsoft’s decision—and need—to unify a single user experience across its entire product line."

More here....

New MVPS HOSTS File Available Today

Get yours. Remember, before installing it, run your monthly Spybot scan.

MVPS HOSTS File Update October-18-2012


The MVPS HOSTS file was recently updated [October-18-2012]
http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.htm
Download: hosts.zip (144 kb)
http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.zip
How To: Download and Extract the HOSTS file
http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts2.htm
HOSTS File - Frequently Asked Questions
http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hostsfaq.htm
Note: the "text" version makes a great resource for determining possible unwanted connections ...
http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/hosts.txt (586 kb)
Get notified when the MVPS HOSTS file is updated
http://winhelp2002.mvps.org/updates.htm

Finding a Simple Computer

From the New York Times.

Question: "I am trying to find the easiest computer for my elderly mother to use. She has never used one before and only needs e-mail and the Web, so it needs to be really basic. What’s out there?"

Answer: "The Telikin is one such specialized system that is promoted as an “easy to use” machine for anyone seeking a basic computer. The system has a touch-screen interface with large icons and includes built-in applications using Web and e-mail. Several reviews of the Telikin can be found around the Web and more information is on the Telikin site. Enablemart also sells computers for those with limited or specific needs."

Read whole answer here

10 reasons why the desktop PC will live forever

Those of you who know me, whether customer, student, or friend or family, know that I am a big fan of desktop computers. I am such a big fan that I just bought a new one. I got this from Costco: ZT Intel® Core™ i7-3770 Desktop PC with Wireless Keyboard & Mouse. I have it installed next to my old IBM desktop PC that is running fine, even though it is literally in pieces and I start it with a chopstick (don't ask). My IBM has been a real workhorse and has been extremely reliable. Also, it has Windows XP, and I hate to give that up. The new one of course has W7. I WILL get to like W7, I keep telling myself. I do still have my Acer TravelMate 4220 laptop, and it runs XP, so I will keep my hand in on XP, the good Lord willing and it (the Acer) doesn't fail!

So today I found this article on the PCWorld web site, and it is both timely and may help some of you make a buying decision if you are wondering about the futire of desktops.
  

10 reasons why the desktop PC will live forever

What to do if the power cord for your laptop stops working

This has happened to me in the past. This is a good blog post from Call That Girl for any laptop owners.

"Drat, that power cord. Always causing problems! Most clients call us for a few reasons in regards to power issues with their laptop. Sometimes we can fix it, sometimes we cannot. Most of the time, we can fix it, but the cost is roughly $150 (it’s a hardware repair, done inside the computer and very labor intensive). If the hardware, also known as a DC jack, is fine, then the problem is most likely a dead power supply (cord).




How to figure out if it’s your power cord:
 
Unfortunately, there’s not always a clear cut sign as to which is your problem. One thing you can try, if you have another that fits, is to plug in a different power supply and see if your computer gets a full charge. If it does, then your power cord is most likely the cause. If this still doesn’t work or you don’t have an extra cord, you can drop off your computer for a free diagnosis and let us figure out what exactly is going on!

What to do if it’s your power cord:

• Purchase a new power adapter from the manufacturer = spendy, but probably best if your laptop is under 3 years old.
• Purchase one from Best Buy or Microcenter = also spendy, but convenient.
• Purchase a generic adapter set online = Most folks do this, but…the adapter can be a problem later. They will either stop working or fail before a manufactured one will."

White House confirms 'spearphishing' intrusion

"Spearphishing means an attacker is targeting a specific person or group, typically by sending fake e-mail that masquerades as legitimate correspondence."

Read the article here on cnet.com.

I use SOS Online Backup services to protect my valuable data

Every morning I find an e-mail in my Inbox that informs me of the results of last night's online backup. I use SOS Online Backup, an affordable and reliable backup service to automatically backup all of my important data (pictures, music, videos, etc.) to The Cloud. I found that I needed a little help at the start, but the SOS online help team seemed to be always available, no matter the day or the hour, to provide me the help I needed.

One of these days my old IBM desktop PC will fail. If it does so in such a way that I lose data, I feel comfortable knowing that I will be able to restore the backed up data from SOS. 

This is what he body of the e-mail looks like (with apologies for cutting off the right side of the message, but you see the most important data and, I hope, get the idea):

SOS Online Backup - Backup Report for Friday, April 20, 2012

This email is from the SOS Online Backup system to report to you on a backup that you setup. Note that these backup reports are sent to you by default upon installation and setup of a scheduled backup in the SOS Online Backup software. You can disable getting these reports by going to the "Settings" tab in SOS Online Backup, then clicking "Options", and then clicking "Email Backup Reports".

Account Username pcdoc@brpcdoc.com Machine Name IBM8195E9U Backup Date 4/20/2012 10:05:05 PM Files that were not changed 44075 Files that were backed up 35 Files that were not backed up 0 Total Number of files processed 35 Total Data transferred 132.88 MB This email report is auto-generated from the SOS Online Backup system upon the successful completion of your backup session. Making backup simple, easy and affordable.

Can a tablet replace your laptop?

This is from Kim Komando's web site, komando.com. This is extracted from Kim's Daily Tip of 9/27/2012. I have deleted references to the questioner who posed the subject question in order to protect her privacy.

"........You heard correctly that tablets are becoming more like laptops. However, the two gadgets still have different areas of focus.

They're both big investments as far as money is concerned, so you want to make sure you buy the one that works best for you.

Despite all the advances in hardware and software, tablets are still geared toward content consumption. It's easy to watch streaming video, play games, read e-books, listen to music and do light Web browsing.

Creating content isn't so easy. Also, remember that tablets don't run Windows, so any must-have Windows-based programs you own won't work. You'll have to find apps to replace them.

On the plus side, tablets are a bit more portable than laptops. You can easily use one while sitting on the couch watching TV, in bed or when you're out and about.

If that's the kind of use you want, then a tablet is a good choice. Learn more about buying a tablet in my buying guide.

Laptops still have the edge over tablets in content creation thanks to the physical keyboard, a larger screen and more-powerful productivity software.

If you want to write a book, edit photos, create slideshows or do serious Internet browsing, a laptop is the better choice. Read my laptop buying guide to learn more about choosing a good laptop.

Before you make your final decision, xxxxxxxxxx, I'd head out to the store to try out some tablets.

Pay special attention to the on-screen keyboard. Some people can use it just fine while others need a physical keyboard to be happy. You can buy physical keyboards for tablets, but at that point it would probably be better to buy a laptop.

I'd also do some research on apps to make sure you can find ones that do what you need. There's no sense buying a tablet if it is missing a key software feature........................."

The iPhone 5: My First Impressions

By David Pogue of the New York Times.

The iPhone 5: My First Impressions

Security Baseline Revisited

This was last posted in April of this year. There are no changes. This package had helped me keep my PCs trouble-free.


I think every few months or so I should publish this post, especially for those of you who may be new viewers. For those of you who are familiar with my security baseline, I continue to use the same portfolio of free products I used months ago. There are no changes.

I hope you are using these programs. Keep them updated before running!

From time to time I refer to my security baseline. My security baseline is merely a list of programs I use (all free) and recommend for anyone to use to keep their systems secure. This applies to YOU if you use Windows XP, Vista, or Windows 7.

Remember, all of these products are FREE, but will do as good a job as any fee products you may use. I make that statement and stand by it based on 44 years of experience with computers.
 
1. Microsoft Security Essentials. This is a very impressive anti-virus program and can replace any you have now. DOWNLOAD HERE
2. Windows Firewall (Standard part of your operating system. Check the Security Center to be sure it is on.)
3. MVPS HOSTS File - download the current month's version and update monthly DOWNLOAD HERE
4. CCleaner - check for newer version than you may already have. Run weekly. DOWNLOAD HERE by clicking on Download Latest Version in the upper right hand corner of the page.
5. Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware - run bi-weekly. DOWNLOAD HERE
6. SuperAntiSpyware Free Edition - run bi-weekly in the off week after #5. DOWNLOAD HERE
7. Spybot Search & Destroy - run monthly just before downloading new HOSTS file.  I recommend, for now, downloading Version 1.6.2 under "old versions". DOWNLOAD HERE

I will be happy to assist you with any or all of the above installations. This can be done remotely.

Questions?  Comment below or write me, pcdoc at brpcdoc dot com

Nice feedback

I received this e-mail yesterday. It is always nice to receive good, positive feedback like this from a blog reader.

"Thank you, thank you, for your very clear instructions!  After too many frustrating attempts, I found your instructions on the web and was done in minutes.  I, too, like Outlook Express; have bought a new computer and will install the new Outlook program -- any problems changing from Outlook Express to Outlook?"

Rogue Microsoft Services Agreement emails lead to latest Java exploit

As always, be careful, be very careful out there!

"IDG News Service - Hackers are distributing rogue email notifications about changes in Microsoft's Services Agreement to trick people into visiting malicious pages that use a recently circulated Java exploit to infect their computers with malware."

More.........

"Are you ready for Windows 8? I’m not and here’s why…"

I am eminently unqualified to even comment on Windows 8, so I am happy to post another item from the Call That Girl Blog that covers the topic of Windows 8. It's early yet, but those of you who are buying a new computer this summer are being given coupons that will allow you to obtain a copy of Windows 8 for $14.99  or some low price like that when it becomes generally available. Before you jump into something new, I urge you to read the latest here or elsewhere on Windows 8.

Here is how the post starts:

"For those of you that are just now finally getting out of Windows Vista and moving to Windows 7, you are probably very happy consumers. Windows Vista (the operating system that was a problem for many folks) is done with, finished..over! We are all happy! Right? Well, you could see Vista’s annoying little brother coming up soon, aka…Windows 8. The technical people in my circles have all been doing previews and giving Windows 8 only bad reviews. What they are saying is that the “next” version after Windows 8 will be the best, like Windows 7 (ok, what year? 2013? haha!)"

Read more here