Avast! Anti Virus Support for 64-bit Windows

It comes as quite a relief that the Avast! anti virus support now fully renders help to 64-bit Windows platform. This has been enabled in the Avast! Home and Professional versions. This has been seen as a big stride by ALWIL Software as it had been closely watching the proceedings and following up on the whole issue of taking up this platform by Avast!. The Windows XP 64-bit version has an extensive range of supporting up to 32 GB of RAM and 16 TB of virtual memory. A lot of antivirus support software cannot usually support the 64-bit Windows because of its massive storage. The Windows 64-bit version can run applications at great speed when engaged to work with big data sets.
These applications have the propensity to preload a lot more data into the virtual memory enabling quicker access by the 64-bit extensions of the processor. This minimizes the time taken to insert data into virtual memory and also in writing data storage devices. In this way, applications can run a lot quicker with greater control.
Regular antivirus support applications in 32-bit versions of Windows do not run on the 64-bit Windows. This is because the 32-bit versions depend on the 32-bit kernel drivers. However, the Avast! anti virus support application changes this equation by running traditional 64-bit drivers and still deliver the best mode of protection and safety as achieved in the 32-bit Windows. Both the 32-bit and the 64-bit versions get installed in the same way.

Windows 7 fix determines Vista upgrade stopper

Some Windows Vista users have been unable to migrate to Windows 7 due to a problem with the installation program. For those unfortunate souls, the system falls after 62 percent of the upgrade has been completed. No amount of waiting, retrying or smacking the computer will help if that encounters.

Microsoft is pointing to a Windows Vista plug-in, IphlpsvcMigPlugin.ddd, as the culprit, according to the Fix it blog. The firm had published a workaround with complex steps to follow. Now, users with the problem can use Microsoft’s Fix it solution to carry out those same steps automatically and complete their Windows 7 upgrades. The Fix it solution can be applied after the 62 percent upgrade failure happens. At that point, the PC will roll back to Windows Vista. After the patch is applied, users can try the Windows 7 upgrade process again.

Windows 7 was launched to the general public last month, but some individuals have reported various problems upgrading from Vista, including an endless reboot problem still under investigation by Microsoft. The main forum for getting help on Windows 7 upgrade issues can be found here, but Microsoft also gives help resources. Micorsoft supports upgrades only for users moving from Vista to Windows 7. Those migrating from Windows XP 7 need to do a clean install.

In another development, Microsoft has been trying to clarify details on upgrading to Windows 7 for individual users, but it’s been a rocky ride at best. The main problem has been straightening out the differences between what is technically possible and what is permitted by Microsoft’s licensing. Both points appear to be confusing for users. In addition, there’s a cost-motivation factor. Microsoft sells Windows 7 upgrade media at a lower cost than the full editions of the operating system. Hacks have looked on the Web, suggesting a way for users to do clean installations of new Windows 7 using the lower-priced upgrade media.

Individuals need to have a licensed copy of Window XP or Windows Vista to use the upgrade media. They can even migrate to higher versions of Windows 7. For instance, Vista Home Basic users can upgrade to the new Windows 7 Ultimate edition, according to this Microsoft forum post. Users of older Windows OS, such as Windows 2000, have to purchase the full edition of Windows 7 and can’t upgrade. Another snag for those wanting to upgrade their PCs is that the new Windows 7 upgrade is connected to use on specific hardware. The upgrade copy of Windows 7 is only licensed to execute on the same PC that ran XP or Vista, as installed by the original equipment manufacturer.

Users can tell if they have a full licensed copy of Windows from an OEM through a Microsoft certificate of authenticity label. The label will either be linked to the computer or will appear on the installer packaging from the PC manufacturer. So, the word upgrade essentially has two meanings when it comes to Windows 7. First, it refers to what’s permitted by the license. Second, it refers to the technical facility to move from the older Windows OS to Windows 7 without having to migrate settings, options and data. The alternative to an upgrade is a clean install. Those moving from x86 to x64 hardware face a clean install, which needs backing up information before installing the new Windows 7.

Grammar check in Microsoft Office Word

Usually, computers comes with the Microsoft Office or MS word along with it, they are among the better word processing programs available. It serves to perform a lot of editing tools such as spelling checks, grammar and writing techniques. However, these programs need to be activated. This is how they have to be done. Grammar check and auto-correction in Microsoft Office word allows one to make errors specifically acceptable and also adds a dictionary to the word documents.

Open the Microsoft Office Word document and click on "Office Button", and select the "word options" at the end of the pop-up screen. Now, select the "proof" tab and have a go at the editing options. Click the "Mark Grammar Errors" box and the "Check Grammar with Spelling" box. Use the "Writing Style" arrow to choose "Grammar Only" or "Grammar & Style." Now, go to the "setting" tab and click on it. It will be next to the "writing style". Now accordingly change the options according to the style selected. Now once you have selected the document to be checked, click the box next to the grammar check in Microsoft Office Word.

If you chose "Grammar & Style," change the "Style" options as well. Click "OK" when you finish. Finally, to sum the exercise up, select "Recheck Document" if you want to check an existing document. To automatically save your changes just press "OK."

Mistakes and problems with Upgrading Operating System, How to correct them?

One of the chief components of a computer is an operating system. It is the imperative requisite for a computer to function. Operating systems are constantly getting updated with newer versions being launched every now and then especially from software companies like Microsoft. It is required to make an operating system upgrade in order to meet the needs of the various technologies which are enabled through the latest operating systems for a smoother functioning of home or business needs.
By making an operating system upgrade, a computer will also function and operate more efficiently. Usually, when a user has to purchase a new operating system, it can get quite expensive. So most users stick to an operating system upgrade to suit their budget and meet their needs.
Before enabling the operating system upgrade, a few things need to be kept in mind. This includes figuring out if the hardware on a computer is compatible with the new OS. Usually newer operating systems need higher processing power. Old hardware from old computers does not meet the standards of some operating systems and as a result some applications will not function in the new operating system.
The hardware components which need to be updated to support the operating system upgrade are the CPU speed, Hard Disk, available mass storage space and RAM size amongst other things. The basic requirements are usually accessible from the computer manufacturer's website.

New NOD32 Anti Virus

With rapid advancement in technology, computer systems are also making big strides. More and more programs and applications have been compressed and made smaller in size and usage. However it is only natural that with new applications and programs, new stronger viruses will also evolve and pop-up on your computer screens. So it is very important, or actually most important, to equip yourself with the best antivirus program to protect yourself and keep you well safeguarded. Talking about Anti Virus programs, the NOD32 Anti Virus is the best antivirus program available this time around. It is, by far, the only anti virus program which can stop tpuo 100 % viruses running wild on your computer. It can stop worms, trojans, malware, spyware, phishing and much more.

NOD32 Anti Virus is the best antivirus and this has been further given more weightage by its ability to have not missed a single in the wild worm or virus. This was done through an extensive test on it by Virus Bulletin. The Bulletin is an independent testing organization equipped full-time antivirus personnel who are experts in their own fields. It is trusted by the best antivirus suites and recognized extensively within the antivirus industry for its thorough comparative tests with a focus set on virus detection rates, generation of false positives and scanning speed. It is through the tests carried by the Virus Bulletin wherein NOD32 Anti Virus was voted as the best antivirus with the unique capability of not missing out even a single in the wild worm upto date. The award still stands strong and NOD32 Anti Virus still does a lot better then any other antivirus suite in the industry.

Microsoft Ordered To Stop Windows Sales In China

In a major revelation, word has been confirmed that China has banned Microsoft selling its multiple versions of Windows operating system. The cause has been related a local licensing agreement breach. The various versions of Microsoft's operating systems like Windows XP, 2003, 2000 or 98 software will not be available for sale anymore in China and it comes as a huge blow for the software giants. This breach was discussed in a court in Beijing and a ruling was passed stating that Microsoft has breached the norms of its licensing agreement with a company that makes designer fonts. It can be mentioned that the breach also involves on an agreement of using special Chinese Fonts only on the Windows 95 version by Microsoft.
Microsoft has decided to make an appeal regarding the ban on it's operating systems although it respects the "intellectual rights" and will respond in a legal way. The company, Zhongyi, is hell-bent on the breach by Microsoft in the agreement of allowing only special fonts for the Windows 95 version but said Microsoft violated the rights and had deployed the fonts in its subsequent versions of their operating systems as well. This case heralds the legitimacy of upholding intellectual property rights, since by winning the case against Microsoft, Zhungyi has proved the significance of the protection of intellectuall property rights. It's ironical, however, that this kind of ruling is passed in China given the amount of pirated software of Microsoft available in the Chinese market.

Windows 7 default: An enhancement for better security

Windows 7 default presents a list of those feature which are either enable or disable by default in Windows7.

Stop Paying For Windows Security

Let's start with security. The release of Microsoft Security Essentials has changed the landscape of antivirus software. We’ve finally got a completely free application that preserves our system against viruses, spyware and other malware — without killing system performance like some of the security software does. In my personal experience, it hardly slows down or make any impact on performance. This Windows 7 default feature check any deliberate attempt to download some viruses (It can immediately trace them out and check their way.
Don't take me granted. It has been proved by many of the security software developer. Not only did AV-Test.org find that it detects 98 per cent of their vast malware database, but AV-Comparatives (a widely known anti-malware testing group) detected that MSE was one of only three products that did well at both finding and removing malware, including the leftovers. It was also the only free product to grab their “Advanced+” rating-the top honour for an anti-malware solution.
The advanced Tech-readers will note that MSE does not do any fancy heuristics to detect viruses that aren’t in the database already, which is a feature offered by some paid solutions. Hence Windows 7 default security package will prove beneficial for user. It will save their money expenditure on security concern.

Keep Applications Like Acrobat and Flash Updated or Uninstall Them

Windows 7 default feature also keep auto updating your application software. Because many a time we are not able to pay attention in updating the software hence facing problems. But now leave it upto Windows 7 default. Adobe Flash is notoriously full of security holes, and the latest attacks have been using vulnerabilities in Adobe Acrobat to infect your PC without installing a thing — just go to the wrong site that redirects you in a hidden frame to a PDF file containing the exploit and your system can be exploited.
Regular updates of your applications is critically important to protect the security feature. Your firewall won’t help to protect you, and an antivirus software is unlikely to help if you’re using an old, vulnerable version of Flash in your browser. Hence you need is a piece of software that scans your PC and makes sure that you are using the latest, patched versions.

User Account Control (UAC) is Not a Security Tool

One of the drawaback of Windows Vista was those annyoing UAC prompts asking you for permission to do nearly anything on your computer. Its was just providing you pseudo realization of being concern about your security. Malware researchers at SophosLabs found that 8 of 10 malware samples can actually bypass UAC on a system with the Windows 7 default settings. Hence you can keep UAC disable from your end, which is by Windows7 default feature.
The original purpose was to change the way Windows works. So you don't have to take care everytime for running a program with just as administrator account. You can run easily software as a standard user account.

Windows 7 Guide

Have you ever thought that how much control should users have over their own desktops? This is a frequently asked question that data center administrators especially those in small to medium sized enterprises have been asking ever since Windows Vista started shipping.

The major issue: With User Account Control features, end users are stuck in an uncomfortable middle ground. They are not able to install programs they really need without administrative privileges, and yet having those administrative rights means they can install anything, including applications that leak private business data and other malware that slow productivity.


Windows 7 is the successor to Windows Vista, an OS release that promises to fix most of the major annoyances in Vista without adding any major new features.

New UAC slider controls are developed to alleviate the tedium of access control a feature that, in Vista, became a major letdown. One of the prime offenders is Apple iTunes, which prompts users umpteen times to approve the installation. In Windows 7, these prompts will be customizable: You will only get an alert when a software install affects the system Registry or when the application was downloaded from the Internet.


The UAC tool in Windows 7 are no cause for alarm, because there’s a way of dealing with the features in Vista and in Windows 7: Offload the security practices to another software agent to manage administrator accounts. This best of both worlds approach means the end user can install applications as needed, but is blocked from installing harmful software, and the end user does not have to manage his own security access at all.

One of the USP of Windows 7 is the more flexible and less irritating User Account Control. Microsoft has reduced the actions that prompt you making it less annoying for the users. The software giant has made several changes, but the biggest change is the User Account Control “slider” setting which results in less annoyance and more security.

There are now four customization settings for UAC:
1. Never notify (Less secure): The user is not notified when an application tries to install software or make changes to the PC. The user is not notified when they make changes to Windows settings or when programs try to do so.
2. Only notify me when programs try to make changes to my computer: The user is not notified when an application tries to install software or make changes to the computer. The user is not informed when they make changes to Windows settings. However, the user is notified when programs try to make changes to the computer, including Windows settings.
3. Always notify me: The user is always notified when an application tries to install software or make changes to the computer. Windows informs you when they make changes to Windows settings or when programs try to do so.
4. Always notify me and wait for my response (most secure): The user is notified when an application tries to install software or make changes to the computer. The user is also informed when they make changes to Windows settings or when programs try to do so.