For the show broadcast between September 6th and September 12th, 2008
This week Benjamin covered a wide variety of topics, including that of the newly-popular "Nerd Show". These TV shows all have some sort of qualities or maybe multiple qualities that classify them as “nerdy,” such as scientific accuracy (i.e. no sound in space) or comic-book characteristics (superheroes!). Benjamin’s list of his favorite Nerd TV entailed 24, Heroes, Mythbusters, Firefly, and Quantum Leap.
But of course Benjamin also covered helpful hints of tools and tech; such has how to check the speed of a USB drive. There’s a simple, user-friendly tool that helps you find the best USB drives you have, since more speed results in better operating capabilities. It’s called Crystal Disk Mark.
Additionally, Benjamin talked about the all-important user interfacing of computers. Windows Vista has some great features, but unfortunately User Account Control (UAC) is not one of them. It constantly asks your permission to do load programs that you have asked it to load in an effort to minimize hacking. The good news is that this bothersome little feature can be turned off and/or modified.
1. Start
2. Misconfig (click continue if a security warning comes up)
3. Tools
4. Disable UAC
5. Launch
6. Let command window run
7. Reboot
You can also modify the settings via the online tool, Tweak UAC.
NOTE: This WILL hinder your security, and you will be safer if you just deal with the boxes.
Benjamin talked a bout security a lot this week, including various tips on general computer safety. These included installing an antivirus, backing up all of your data on external hard drives or CD’s, and creating an Administrator profile on your computer. This Admin needs to have a password and should not be called ADMIN or it will attract more attention, and therefore be more targeted.
Speaking of security, Benjamin got McAfee on the phone, and they discussed, of course, security! They talked about McAfee’s Anti-Theft File Protection that allows users to store information like bank statements in a “digital vault” so that this information can not be stolen, leading to identity theft.
Lastly, Benjamin answered Gary’s questions about BelArc and Scott’s question about the effectiveness of Windows Defender.
Remember to tune in next week and to listen to this week’s show right now by using the links below!
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