November 29, 2007
WGA: better, but still not good enough
When it was first released, Microsoft's Windows Genuine Advantage (WGA) was widely criticized for spyware-like qualities and numerous false positives. Since then, Microsoft has given its anticopying program a number of changes, but they're not enough to give this tool a positive reputation. Read more »
Save energy without sacrificing after-hours tasks
In the Nov. 15 issue, I recommended putting your system on standby when you're not at the keyboard. But how can your system do all of your automated tasks if it's asleep? With a few well-chosen strategies (including the right BIOS or some helpful freeware), you can have your disk-maintenance cake and eat your energy savings, too. Read more »
How Disney really feels about Christmas
Ladies and gentlemen, Thanksgiving is over. It's officially the Christmas season. So put away the turkeys and break out the tinsel, the Christmas tree, the lights, the gift wrapping, the trips to the mall, the crowds, the invitations to in-laws — well, you get the picture. Read more »
Own any PC in 60 seconds or less 
If someone can gain physical access to your computer, they can easily "own" it by either stealing it or breaking into it to access your data. This week, I show you how easily an intruder can reset any Windows password — and how you can protect your data if someone gets his hands on your system. Read more »
MS's update icons confuse Windows patchers
This month's security patches were fairly few in number, but bulky updates for Vista and OneCare have caused some "interesting" side effects. For some people, it wasn't until days after Patch Tuesday that notifications became visible that patches were ready for Vista machines. Read more »