Restoring Windows Boot Loader in Master Boot Record With Dual Boot Systems

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This tutorial will teach the reader how to restore the original Windows boot loader in the Master Boot Record (MBR). This is typically desired after a successful dual boot of a Linux distribution and Windows on a single hard drive has replaced the Windows boot loader with GRUB. For some running cheap dedicated servers, this can save a lot of time and hassle, and offers some much needed utility to the machine.

GRUB is perfectly fine, except Windows boot loader will always be recommended. GRUB can be prone to errors with some anti-virus programs that insist on including small and otherwise harmless files into the Master Boot Record. These files ultimately alter and harm the GRUB loader.

Another note of precaution before we go through the process of restoring the Windows boot loader in MBR. At times, the Linux boot loader is more optimal for this situation, but not installed in the Master Boot Record, but instead in the Linux installation boot partition. In the event that the /boot is not a separate partition, the Linux boot loader can be installed in the main partition. This process allows the Windows boot manager the main responsibility of booting applications during a restart. Additionally, reinstalling Windows will not cause a loss of access to the Linux side of the dual boot.

Now that we understand the benefits of restoring the Windows boot loader, let's get this started! The first step is to download the essential tool that will make this nice and easy: EasyBCD. Go to their main website and click on the "Download free for limited, non-commercial use" link. Following the basic installation instructions and load it up.

The first step is to go to the BCD Deployment tab on the left of the main menu. At the bottom of that tab is a button that says "Write MBR" with a STOP SIGN next to it. Click on that button. Do note: If your intent was to sever ties with the Linux installation, this will have done the trick. You can no longer boot the Linux portion of the dual boot until we remedy this issue in the next step.

In order to continue booting Linux after restoring the Windows boot manager to the Master Boot Record, we will add an entry for the Linux distribution in the boot manager menu. On the left side of the menu, find and click the "Add New Entry" button. Under this menu, go under the Linux/BSD tab and select "GRUB 2" under the Type dropdown menu. Fill in the Title of your Linux for identification purposes. Once finished, click the "Add Entry" button to finish your work.

To check your work, click on "Edit Boot Menu" found on the left menu tabs. There should be two entries, Windows and your Linux distribution. You can also change the boot order to fit your needs. Restart your computer after choosing the boot order and voila! You now have a Windows boot loader to choose between Windows and Linux.

Learn more about dual-booted cheap dedicated servers by clicking on the link.

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Wallet Safety: Protect Your Credit Cards From RFID Tracking Systems

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Is it safe?

While RFID is gaining in popularity, and many companies are proposing to use it in all sorts of industries, from grocery scanning to tracking currency and retail, RFID technology can also pose a serious security hazard in credit cards. The technology Website EnGadget found that any unauthorized user can scan RFID credit cards for unencrypted data using a reader that can be purchased online for as low as $8.00.

How can I protect my wallet?

Credit card companies are catching on to the threats posed by RFID, and are taking action to boost security in the near future. If you are concerned about the safety of the information on your cards, here are some steps you can take right now to protect your credit cards from RFID tracking systems:
When you are out and about, use cash or normal credit and debit cards. Leave your RFID cards at home and use them for online purchases only.
Stack your RFID cards in your wallet back-to-back. This creates what is called "tag collision," essentially giving the reader too many signals to process at once. This offers little protection, however, since time read is very fast and it can be easy to develop systems that scan the chips one at a time.
Get a DataSafe wallet, or other similar product approved by the Government Services Administration to block RFID signals. These wallets are indistinguishable from a normal wallet on the outside.
Buy credit card shields to hold your cards when not in use. These are made from aluminum material and there are a number of companies that make them for less than $10.
Go the homemade route: Wrap your RFID cards in aluminum foil before you put them in your wallet. Some users have said that this is a simple and effective way to block your cards from RFID readers.
Make sure to consistently monitor your credit card statements, ad be on the alert for any suspicious account activity. Even if you don't have RFID cards, this is the best way to avoid credit card theft and fraud.

RFID technology at this point is limited to a range of about 5 feet. This may not be the case for long, however, as advancements and new technologies arise, it will be increasingly important to secure anything containing personal information that is equipped with RFID or similar technology. Watch for advancements in the technology and ensure your personal information is secure.

Learn more about RFID technology and RFID asset tracking systems.

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