Windows XP Registry Commands

AppId is over the quota

Enabling & disabling the USB port in windows via registry.

To disable the access to USB port, in windows XP and 2000:

1. Click Start, and then click Run.

2. In the Open box, type regedit, and then click OK.

3. Locate, and then click the following registry key:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSet

ServicesUsbStor

4. In the right pane, double-click Start.

5. In the Value data box, type 4, click Hexadecimal

(if it is not already selected), and then click OK.

6. Quit Registry Editor.

To re-enable a disabled port:

1. Click Start, and then click Run.

2. In the Open box, type regedit, and then click OK.

3. Locate, and then click the following registry key:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSet

ServicesUsbStor

4. In the right pane, double-click Start.

5. In the Value data box, type 3, click Hexadecimal

(if it is not already selected), and then click OK.

6. Quit Registry Editor.

However, there can be other ways too to bypass this issue,

one of the easiest is to invest in a PS2 to USB port convertor.

Add Open With to all files

You can add "Open With... " to the Right click context menu of all files.This is great for when you have several programs you want to open the same file types with. I use three different text editors so I added it to the ".txt" key.

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT*Shell

3. Add a new Key named "OpenWith" by right clicking the "Shell" Key and selecting new

4. Set the (Default) to "Op&en With... "

5. Add a new Key named "Command" by right clicking the "OpenWith" Key and selecting new

6. Set the (Default) to "C:Windowsrundll32.exe shell32.dll,OpenAs_RunDLL %1", C: being your Windows drive. You must enter the "OpenAs_RunDLL %1" exactly this way.

Customize the System Tray

You can add your name or anything you like that consists of 8 characters or less. This will replace the AM or PM next to the system time. But you can corrupt some trial licenses of software that you may have downloaded.

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to HKEY_CURRENT_USERControl PanelInternational

3. Add two new String values, "s1159" and "s2359"

4. Right click the new value name and modify. Enter anything you like up to 8 characters.

If you enter two different values when modifying, you can have the system tray display the two different values in the AM and PM.

Lock Out Unwanted Users

Want to keep people from accessing Windows, even as the default user? If you do not have a domain do not attempt this.

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINENetworkLogon

3. Create a dword value "MustBeValidated"

4. Set the value to 1

This forced logon can be bypassed in Safe Mode on Windows 9x

Disable the Outlook Express Splash Screen

You can make Outlook Express load quicker by disabling the splash screen:

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftOutLook Express

3. Add a string value "NoSplash"

4. Set the value data to 1 as a Dword value

Multiple Columns For the Start Menu

To make Windows use multiple Start Menu Columns instead of a single scrolling column, like Windows 9x had, Also if you are using Classic Mode in XP

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to the key

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Software Microsoft Windows CurrentVersion Explorer Advanced

3. Create a string value "StartMenuScrollPrograms"

4. Right click the new string value and select modify

5. Set the value to "FALSE"

Changing Windows' Icons

You can change the Icons Windows uses for folders, the Start Menu, opened and closed folder in the Explorer, and many more.

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Software Microsoft Windows CurrentVersion Explorer Shell Icons

3. Add a string value for each Icon you wish to change.

Example: "3" ="C:WindowsIconsMyIcon.ico,0" This will change the closed folders in the Explorer to "MyIcon.ico". Here is a complete list for each value.

0= Unknown file type

1= MSN file types

2= Applications Generic

3= Closed Folder

4= Open Folder

5= 5.25" Drive

6= 3.25" Drive

7= Removable Drive

8= Hard Drive

9= Network Drive

10= Network Drive Offline

11= CD-ROM Drive

12= RAM Drive

13= Entire Network

14= Network Hub

15= My Computer

16= Printer

17= Network Neighborhood

18= Network Workgroup

19= Start Menu's Program Folders

20= Start Menu's Documents

21= Start Menu's Setting

22= Start Menu's Find

23= Start Menu's Help

24= Start Menu's Run

25= Start Menu's Suspend

26= Start Menu's PC Undock

27= Start Menu's Shutdown

28= Shared

29= Shortcut Arrow

30= (Unknown Overlay)

31= Recycle Bin Empty

32= Recycle Bin Full

33= Dial-up Network

34= DeskTop

35= Control Panel

36= Start Menu's Programs

37= Printer Folder

38= Fonts Folder

39= Taskbar Icon

40= Audio CD

You need to reboot after making changes. You may need to delete the hidden file ShellIconCache if after rebooting the desired Icons are not displayed.

Change Default Folder Locations

You can change or delete the Windows mandatory locations of folder like My Documents:

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to HKEY_CURRENT_USER Software Microsoft Windows CurrentVersion Explorer Shell Folders

3. Change the desired folder location, My Documents is normally list as "Personal"

4. Open the Explorer and rename or create the folder you wish.

To change the desired location of the Program Files folder

1. Go to

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersion

2. Change the value of "ProgramFiles", or "ProgramFilesDir"

Now when you install a new program it will default to the new location you have selected.

Change the Registered Change the User Information

You can change the Registered Owner or Registered Organization to anything you want even after Windows is installed.

1) Open RegEdit

2) Got to

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE SOFTWARE Microsoft Windows CurrentVersion.

3) Change the value of "RegisteredOrganization" or "RegisteredOwner", to what ever you want

Opening a DOS Window to either the Drive or Directory in Explorer

Add the following Registry Keys for a Directory:

HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTDirectoryshellopennew

@="Dos Prompt in that Directory"

HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTDirectoryshellopennewcommand

@="command.com /k cd %1"

Add or Edit the following Registry Keys for a Drive:

HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTDriveshellopennew

@="Dos Prompt in that Drive"

HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTDriveshellopennewcommand

@="command.com /k cd %1"

These will allow you to right click on either the drive or the directory and the option of starting the dos prompt will pop up.

Changing Exchange/Outlook Mailbox Location

To change the location of your mailbox for Exchange:

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to

HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftware MicrosoftWindows Messaging Subsystem Profiles

3. Go to the profile you want to change

4. Go to the value name that has the file location for your mailbox (*.PST) file

5. Make the change to file location or name

To change the location of your mailbox for Outlook

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftOutlook (or Outlook Express if Outlook Express)

3. Go to the section "Store Root"

4. Make the change to file location

Add/Remove Sound Events from Control Panel

You can Add and delete sounds events in the Control Panel. In order to do that:

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to HKEY_CURRENT_USERAppEventsSchemesApps and HKEY_CURRENT_USERAppEventsSchemesEventlabels. If this key does not exist you can create it and add events.

3. You can add/delete any items you want to or delete the ones you no longer want.

Adding an Application to the Right Click on Every Folder

Here is how to add any application to the Context Menu when you right click on any Folder. This way you do not have to always go to the Start Menu. When you right click on any folder, you can have access to that application, the same as using Sent To.

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTFoldershell

3. Add a new Key to the "Shell" Key and name it anything you like.

4. Give it a default value that will appear when you right click a folder, i.e. NewKey (use an "&" without the quotes, in front of any character and it will allow you to use the keyboard)

5. Click on the Key HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTFoldershellNewKey

6. Add a New Key named Command

7. Set the (Default) value of the application you want to run

8. For example: c:program filesinternet exploreriexplore.exe (Include the full path and parameters if you need them)

Adding Explore From Here to Every Folder

When you want to right click on any folder and want to open up an Explorer window of that folder.

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTFoldershell

3. Add a new Key "RootExplore " under the "Shell" Key

4. Set the (Default) value to "E&xplore From Here "

5. Right Click the "RootExplore " Key and add a new Key "Command"to the RootExplore

6. Set the (Default) value of Explorer.exe /e,/root,/idlist,%i

Changing the Location of Windows' Installation Files

If you need to change the drive and or path where Windows looks for its installation files:

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWARE Microsoft Windows CurrentVersion Setup

3. Edit the value next to SourcePath

Creating a Logon Banner

If you want to create a Logon Banner: A message box to appear below your logon on.

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go To

For Windows 9x and ME -

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWARE Microsoft Windows CurrentVersion Winlogon

For Windows 2000 XP 2003 Vista -

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWARE Microsoft Windows CurrentVersion Winlogon

3. Create a new String value"LegalNoticeCaption "

4. Enter the Title of the window. What is displayed in the Title Bar.

5. Create a new string value "LegalNoticeText"

6. Enter the text for your message box that will appear even before the Logon window.

Creating a Default File Opener

If you have a un-registered file type and want to view it instead of having to select Open With. Use Explorer's Right-click and add your program to the right-click options by:

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTUnknownShell

3. Right click on "Shell" and create a New Key and name it "Open "

4. Create a New Key under the "Open" key you just created and name it "Command"

5. Set the (Default) value to the path and filename of the program you want to use to open the file type

6. For example: C:WindowsNOTEPAD.EXE %1

You must use the "%1" for this to work.and a space between the exe and the %1

Deleting Registry Keys from the Command Line

There are two ways to delete a key from the Registry from the Command line. At the Windows Command line:

RegEdit /l location of System.dat /R location of User.dat /D Registry key to delete

You cannot be in Windows at the time you use this switch.

Or you can create a reg file as such:

REGEDIT4

[-HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINEthe key you want to delete]

Note the negative sign just behind the[

Then at the Command line type:

1. RegEdit C:Windows(name of the regfile).

Change/Add Restrictions And Features

If you want to make restrictions to what users can do or use on their computer without having to run Poledit, you can edit the Registry. You can add and delete Windows features in this Key shown below.

Zero is Off and the value 1 is On. Example: to Save Windows settings add or modify the value name NoSaveSettings to 0, if set to1 Windows will not save settings. And NoDeletePrinter set to 1 will prevent the user from deleting a printer.

The same key shows up at:

HKEY_USERS(yourprofilename) Software Microsoft Windows CurrentVersion Policies Explorer so change it there also if you are using different profiles.

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to

HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoft CurrentVersion Policies

3. Go to the Explorer Key (Additional keys that can be created under Policies are System, Explorer, Network and WinOldApp )

4. You can then add DWORD or binary values set to 1 in the appropriate keys for ON and 0 for off.

NoDeletePrinter - Disables Deletion of Printers

NoAddPrinter - Disables Addition of Printers

NoRun - Disables Run Command

NoSetFolders - Removes Folders from Settings on Start Menu

NoSetTaskbar - Removes Taskbar from Settings on Start Menu

NoFind - Removes the Find Command

NoDrives - Hides Drives in My Computers

NoNetHood - Hides the Network Neighborhood

NoDesktop - Hides all icons on the Desktop

NoClose - Disables Shutdown

NoSaveSettings - Don't save settings on exit

DisableRegistryTools - Disable Registry Editing Tools

NoRecentDocsMenu - Hides the Documents shortcut at the Start button

NoRecentDocsHistory- Clears history of Documents

NoFileMenu _ Hides the Files Menu in Explorer

NoActiveDesktop - No Active Desktop

NoActiveDesktopChanges- No changes allowed

NoInternetIcon - No Internet Explorer Icon on the Desktop

NoFavoritesMenu - Hides the Favorites menu

NoChangeStartMenu _ Disables changes to the Start Menu

NoFolderOptions _ Hides the Folder Options in the Explorer

ClearRecentDocsOnExit - Empty the recent Docs folder on reboot

NoLogoff - Hides the Log Off... in the Start Menu

And here are a few more you can play with

ShowInfoTip

NoTrayContextMenu

NoStartMenuSubFolders

NoWindowsUpdate

NoViewContextMenu

EnforceShellExtensionSecurity

LinkResolveIgnoreLinkInfo

NoDriveTypeAutoRun

NoStartBanner

NoSetActiveDesktop

EditLevel

NoNetConnectDisconnect

RestrictRun - Disables all exe programs except those listed in the RestrictRun subkey

This key has many other available keys, there is one to even hide the taskbar, one to hide the control panel and more. I'm not telling you how, as someone may want to play a trick on you. The policies key has a great deal of control over how and what program can run and how one can access what feature.

In the System key you can enter:

NoDispCPL - Disable Display Control Panel

NoDispBackgroundPage - Hide Background Page

NoDispScrSavPage - Hide Screen Saver Page

NoDispAppearancePage - Hide Appearance Page

NoDispSettingsPage - Hide Settings Page

NoSecCPL - Disable Password Control Panel

NoPwdPage - Hide Password Change Page

NoAdminPage - Hide Remote Administration Page

NoProfilePage - Hide User Profiles Page

NoDevMgrPage - Hide Device Manager Page

NoConfigPage - Hide Hardware Profiles Page

NoFileSysPage - Hide File System Button

NoVirtMemPage - Hide Virtual Memory Button

In the Network key you can enter:

NoNetSetup - Disable the Network Control Panel

NoNetSetupIDPage - Hide Identification Page

NoNetSetupSecurityPage - Hide Access Control Page

NoFileSharingControl - Disable File Sharing Controls

NoPrintSharing - Disable Print Sharing Controls

In the WinOldApp key you can enter:

Disabled - Disable MS-DOS Prompt

NoRealMode - Disables Single-Mode MS-DOS

Automatic Screen Refresh

When you make changes to your file system and use Explorer, the changes are not usually displayed until you press the F5 key

To refresh automatically:

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESystemCurrentControlSetControlUpdate

3. Set the value name "UpdateMode" to 1

Disable Password Caching

To disable password caching, which allows for the single Network login and eliminates the secondary Windows logon screen. Either use the same password or:

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to the key

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWARE Microsoft Windows CurrentVersion Policies Network

3. Add a Dword value "DisablePwdCaching" and set the value to 1

Changing the MaxMTU for faster Downloads

There are four Internet settings that can be configured, you can get greater throughput (faster Internet downloads) by modifying a few settings.

They are the MaxMTU, MaxMSS and DefaultRcvWindow, and DefaultTTL

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESystemCurrentControlset Services Class net 000x

(where x is your particular network adapter binding.)

3. Right click on the right panel

4. Select NewString Value and create the value name IPMTU

5. Double click on it and enter then the number you want. The usual change is to 576

6. Similarly, you can add IPMSS and give it a value of 536

(Windows 9X)You can set DefaultRcvWindow, and DefaultTTL by adding these string values to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE System CurrentControlset Services VXD MSTCP

Set the DefaultRcvWindow to"5840"and the DefaultTTL to "128"

Note: These settings will slow down your network access speed slightly, but you will probably not even see the difference if you are using a network card. If you are using Direct Cable you should see a sight difference.

Adding Items to the Start Button

To add items when you right-click on the Start Button:

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTDirectoryShell

3. Right-click on Shell and select New Key

4. Type in the name of the key and press the Enter key

5. In the Default name that shows in the right hand panel, you can add a title with a "&" character in front of the letter for a shortcut

6. Right-click on the key you just created and create another key under it called command

7. For the value of this command, enter the full path and program you want to execute

8. Now when you right click on the Start Button, your new program will be there.

9. For example, if you want Word to be added, you would add that as the first key, the default in the right panel would be &Word so when you right click on the Start Button, the W would be the Hot Key on your keyboard. The value of the key would be C:Program FilesOfficeWinwordWinword.exe

Remove Open, Explore & Find from Start Button

When you right click on the Start Button, you can select Open, Explore or Find.

Open shows your Programs folder. Explore starts the Explorer and allows access to all drives.

Find allows you to search and then run programs. In certain situations you might want to disable this feature.

To remove them:

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTDirectoryShellFind

3. Delete Find

4. Scroll down below Directory to Folder

5. Expand this section under shell

6. Delete Explore and Open

Caution: - When you remove Open, you cannot open any folders.

Removing Items from NEW Context Menu

When you right-click on the desktop and select New, or use the File Menu item in the Explore and select New a list of default templates you can open up are listed.

To remove items from that list:

1. Open RegEdit

2. Do a Search for the string ShellNew in the HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT Hive

3. Delete the ShellNew command key for the items you want to remove.

Changing Telnet Window

You can view more data if you increase the line count of Telnet. By Default it has a window size of 25 lines. To increase this so you can scroll back and look at a larger number on lines:

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftTelnet

3. Modify the value data of "Rows"

Changing the Tips of the Day

You can edit the Tips of the day in the Registry by going to:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoft Windows CurrentVersion explorer Tips

Disabling Drives in My Computer

To turn off the display of local or networked drives when you click on My Computer:

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to

HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftware Microsoft Windows CurrentVersion Policies Explorer

3. Add a New DWORD item and name it NoDrives

4. Give it a value of 3FFFFFF

5. Now when you click on My Computer, none of your drives will show.

Changing the caption on the Title Bar

Change the Caption on the Title Bar for OutLook Express or the Internet Explorer:

For Outlook Express:

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to

HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftOutLook Express

For IE5 and up use:

HKEY_CURRENT_USERIDENTITIES {9DDDACCO-38F2-11D6-93CA-812B1F3493B} SOFTWARE MICROSOFT OUTLOOK EXPRESS5.0

3. Add a string value "WindowTitle" (no space)

4. Modify the value to what ever you like.

For no splash screen, add a dword value "NoSplash" set to 1

The Key {9DDDACCO-38F2-11D6-93CA-812B1F3493B} can be any key you find here. Each user has his own Key number.

The Key 5.0 is whatever version of IE you have

For Internet Explorer:

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESoftwareMicrosoftInternet ExplorerMain

3. Add a string value "Window Title" (use a space)

4. Modify the value to what ever you like.

Disabling the Right-Click on the Start Button

Normally, when you right button click on the Start button, it allows you to open your programs folder, the Explorer and run Find.

In situations where you don't want to allow users to be able to do this in order to secure your computer.

1. Open RegEdit

2. Search for Desktop

3. This should bring you to HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTDirectory

4. Expand this section

5. Under Shell is Find

6. Delete Find

7. Move down a little in the Registry to Folder

8. Expand this section and remove Explore and Open

Now when you right click on the Start button, nothing should happen.

You can delete only those items that you need.

Note: - On Microsoft keyboards, this also disables the Window-E (for Explorer) and Window-F

(for Find) keys.

See the section on Installation in the RESKIT to see how to do this automatically during an install.

Disabling My Computer

In areas where you are trying to restrict what users can do on the computer, it might be beneficial to disable the ability to click on My Computer and have access to the drives, control panel etc.

To disable this:

1. Open RegEdit

2. Search for 20D04FE0-3AEA-1069-A2D8-08002B30309D

3. This should bring you to the HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTCLSID section

4. Delete the entire section.

Now when you click on My Computer, nothing will happen.

You might want to export this section to a Registry file before deleting it just in case you want to enable it again. Or you can rename it to 20D0HideMyComputer4FE0-3AEA-1069-A2D8-08002B30309D. You can also hide all the Desktop Icons, see Change/Add restrictions.

Opening Explorer from My Computer

By default, when you click on the My Computer icon, you get a display of all your drives, the Control Panel etc. If you would like to have this open the Explorer:

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to

HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTCLSID {20D04FE0-3AEA-1069-A2D8-08002B30309D} Shell

3. Add a new Key named "Open" if it does not exists by right clicking "Shell" and selecting new.

4.. Add a new Key named "Command" by right clicking "Open" and selecting new

5. Set the (Default) value for the Command Key to "Explorer.exe" or "C:WindowsExplorer.exe"

Recycle Bin Edits

Fooling with the recycle bin. Why not make the icon context menu act like other icon context menus.

Add rename to the menu:

HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTCLSID {645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E} ShellFolder

"Attributes"=hex:50,01,00,20

Add delete to the menu:

HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTCLSID {645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E} ShellFolder

"Attributes"=hex:60,01,00,20

Add rename and delete to the menu:

HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTCLSID {645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E} ShellFolder

"Attributes"=hex:70,01,00,20

Restore the recycle bin to Windows defaults including un-deleting the icon after deletion:

Restore the icon.

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWARE Microsoft Windows CurrentVersion explorer

DesktopNameSpace{645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E}

@="Recycle Bin"

Reset Windows defaults.

HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTCLSID {645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E} ShellFolder

"Attributes"=hex:40,01,00,20

Other edits to the recycle bin icon:

HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTCLSID {645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E} ShellFolder

"Attributes"=hex:40,01,01,20... standard shortcut arrow

"Attributes"=hex:40,01,02,20... a different shortcut arrow

"Attributes"=hex:40,01,04,20... and still another shortcut arrow

"Attributes"=hex:40,01,08,20... make it look disabled (like it's been cut)

For Windows XP and 2000 also edit HKEY_CURRENT_USER Software Microsoft Windows CurrentVersion Explorer CLSID {645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E}

For Windows ME also edit HKEY_CURRENT_USER Software Classes CLSID {645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E}

Setting the Minimum Password Length

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE SOFTWARE Microsoft Windows CurrentVersion Policies Network

3. Now, choose the Edit/New/Binary value command and call the new value MinPwdLen. Press Enter twice and Assign it a value equal to your minimum password length.

Adddelete programs to run every time Windows starts

You can start or stop programs from executing at boot up by adding or deleting them to/from the run Keys in the Registry. Windows loads programs to start in the following order; Program listed in the Local Machine hive, then the Current User hive, then theWin.ini Run= and Load = lines. then finally programs in your Start Up folder.

To add or remove programs in the Registry

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to the desired Key

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindows CurrentVersion Run

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindows CurrentVersion RunServices

HKEY_CURRENT_USERSOFTWAREMicrosoftWindows CurrentVersion Run

HKEY_CURRENT_USERSOFTWAREMicrosoftWindows CurrentVersion RunServices

3. Add a new String Value and name it anything you like

4. For the value data, enter the path and executable for the program you want to run.

By adding the value to the HKEY_CURRENT_USER hive instead allows the program to start only when that user is logged on.

If you add the value to the RunOnce key the program will run once and be removed from the key by Windows.

Removing the Shortcut Icon Arrows

1. Open RegEdit

2. Open the Key HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT

3. Open the Key LNKFILE

4. Delete the value IsShortcut

5. Open the next Key PIFFILE

6. Delete the value IsShortcut

7. Restart the Windows

Turn Off Window Animation

You can shut off the animation displayed when you minimize and maximize Windows.

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to HKEY_CURRENT_USERControl panel Desktop WindowMetrics

3. Create a new string value "MinAnimate".

4. Set the value data of 0 for Off or 1 for On

Changing your Modem's Initialization String

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESystemCurrentControlSet Services Class Modem 0000 Init

3. Change the settings to the new values

Increasing the Modem Timeout

If your modem it is timing out during file transfers or loading Web Pages, you might try increasing the timeout period. To change the Time Out::

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESystemCurrentControlSet Services Class Modem XXXX Settings Where XXXX is the number of your modem

3. In the right panel and double click on Inactivity Timeout

4. The number of minutes for a timeout should be entered between the brackets.

5. For example, a setting could have S19=<10> to set it to 10 minutes.

Removing Programs from Control Panel's Add/Remove Programs Section

If you uninstalled a program by deleting the files, it may still show up in the Add/Remove programs list in the Control Panel.

In order to remove it from the list.

1. Open RegEdit

2. Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE SOFTWARE Microsoft Windows CurrentVersion Uninstall

3. Delete any programs here.

If you have a problem locating the desired program open each key and view the DisplayName value

Protection on system files

To enable protection on system files such as the KnownDLLs list, add the following value;

1. Open RegEdit

2. HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESystemCurrentControlSet Control SessionManager

3. Create the a Dword value and name it "ProtectionMode "

4. Set the Value to1

View the original article here

Windows 7 Is Slow on Startup - How to Fix

Are you sick of how slow Windows 7 is going at start-up? Well if you are then please read on. There are a lot of different reasons for Windows to be slow at start-up, below we will look at a number of them and discuss how to solve each problem.

The first area to look at is what exactly is starting up when loading into Windows, if there are more than about 4 or 5 programs loading or a particularly resource heavy application all trying to load, then it makes sense that start-up will take a long time. The easiest way to see what is loading and to stop any unwanted programs from opening automatically is by using msconfig, simply open up the start menu and in the search box type "msconfig". This will open up a menu, once there select the start-up tab and deselect any software you do not want to load. You only really need to have an antivirus and firewall running, everything else is optional.

If you have a full hard drive, overloaded with software and files and nearing full capacity, then this could be another reason why Windows start-up is slow. Uninstall any unwanted software and delete any files that are not needed. It would also be a good idea to run a cleaning program such as CCleaner, this will remove any junk files such as cookies and temporary internet files.

Computer infection, in the form of a virus or some sort of malware can slow a computer down drastically, so be sure to have an up to date antivirus program and a firewall. Run regular scans and remove any infection.

Old hardware can be a cause of slowness also, if you are still using an old machine but trying to run modern day software, then it may simply be a time to update your PC. If money is a problem, you can try updating a specific part of your computer, rather than buying a brand new machine. Upgrading the RAM (random access memory) will usually have the biggest and most drastic effect.

If you perform all the tasks mentioned and your computer is still slow, then hardware may be at fault. First try cleaning any dust or muck out of your tower and make sure your PC is not overheating, otherwise it may be time to seek professional help so the exact problem can be diagnosed. Hopefully by completing the actions above, you will solve any speed issues and can use your computer to maximum efficiency.

For More Computer Guides Please Visit This Link: Backup Registry Windows 7

View the original article here

Speed Up Windows 7 - 3 Tips to Improve Your Computer Performance

AppId is over the quota

No matter how fast your new computer reacts at the beginning, it will run slower and slower over time. When you give instructions, you have to waste much time to wait because of the sluggish actions of your computer.

If you are a Windows 7 user, even though Windows 7 is the fastest and the most responsible Microsoft operating system so far, you cannot avoid the slow performance of your computer after using it intensely for several months. You must have considered how to change this frustrating situation. Here are 3 useful tips to optimize your Windows 7 to improve your PC performance.

Tip 1: Review your startup list

When you download and install many programs, some of them will load automatically if your computer starts. Typically, you can decide whether to load the programs automatically when you install them. But if you pay no attention to the install process and don't disable the option of loading automatically, there will be many programs on your startup list. Every time your computer loads, the programs you don't need also load. As a consequence, your computer runs slower.

To speed up your Windows, you'd better limit the programs running at startup. Look at the notification area on the taskbar, you can see the icons of the programs which start automatically. Select the programs you don't use very often to stop their automatic start.

Tip 2: Remove programs you never use

Do you notice that some programs have been installed on it when you buy a new computer? Many PC manufacturers pack new computers with trial editions and limited-edition versions of programs which software companies hope you'll try. If you don't want to use them, it is a good idea to uninstall them to free up your disk space. If your computer is older, it might contain the manufacturer-installed programs that you have never realized before. It is not late to remove them from your computer to improve PC performance.

In addition, if the programs that you have downloaded and installed are no longer unnecessary, it is a wise decision to uninstall them to clean up your disk space.

Tip 3: Restart periodically

Many people don't restart their computers for months because they use them frequently. If you share the same view with them, you are wrong. In fact, you'd better restart your computer at least once a week if you use it a lot. Restarting can close not only the programs running on the taskbar, but also the hidden services that started by different programs. You cannot see them and have no idea about the results they cause. The more programs you open and the longer you keep them running, the greater the chances your PC will slow down.

All in all, remember that windows 7 needs the 3 ways mentioned above to improve its performance. If you want to optimize your computer conveniently, I highly recommend you Topckit- excellent software to speed up your PC by fixing PC errors, removing junk files, optimizing unused programs and so on. It is very easy for you to use it. With it, you can solve your computer problems conveniently and quickly without any mistakes. Topckit can perfectly meet your needs to improve your computer performance.

View the original article here

Speed Up Windows Vista-Optimize Your Computer Performance With 4 Ways

AppId is over the quota

If your computer begins to slow down, what will you do to make it run fast like a new one? You may buy more memory, try to tweak your computer settings or buy a new one instead. Of course, these solutions work and can speed up your PC performance. But, over time, how to keep your computer from slowing down again? Here is 4 helpful ways for Windows Vista users to optimize their computer performance.

Remove spyware

Spyware is designed to collect your personal and sensitive information without your permission. Your confidential information will be transmitted to a third party for profit-making purpose. It might bring you and your life a disaster. In addition to your privacy security, spyware also hamper your computer performance. Therefore, if you figure your computer fails to run normally or unexpected messages pop up on your computer, you'd better install a powerful spyware removal tool and check your computer for viruses to help keep your PC from viruses, spyware, adware and malware. The best way to deal with viruses is to run antivirus software all the time and keep it up to date.

Use ReadyBoost

Buying more memory to increase RAM is an option to speed up your computer, but there is a maximum of limit. If you are using Windows Vista, you can use ReadyBoost, which allows you to use nonvolatile flash memory, such as USB flash drive and a memory card, to speed up your computer performance without having to add additional memory. Keep in mind that the recommended amount of memory to use for Windows ReadyBoost acceleration is one to three times the amount of RAM installed in your PC.

Clean up hard disk

You computer will run sluggishly if your hard disk is full of junk files and unneeded programs. To free up your hard disk can effectively increase the speed of your computer. Follow the steps below and you can improve your PC performance.

Click Start button->All Programs->Accessories->System Tools->Disk Cleanup.

In the Disk Cleanup Options, according to your request, choose the files you want to clean: your own files or all of the files on the computer.

If the Disk Cleanup: Drive Selection dialog appears, choose the hard drive you need to free up, and then hit OK.

Click the Disk Cleanup tab, and then determine the files you want to delete and select or unselect the check boxes.

Click OK if you finish selecting the files you want to delete. And then click Delete files to confirm the operation.

Disable unnecessary enhancements

Windows Vista has many visual enhancements, which are appealing to computer users. However, they also take up system resources and slow down your computer. If you desire a faster PC, you can disable them with the following steps.

In the Start list, click Control Panel and open the Performance Information and Tools applet.

In the left pane, select Adjust Visual Effects.

You can choose to click Adjust For Best Performance option to disable all the visual features which consume system resources, or disable the enhancements you don't want in the Performance Options dialog box.

The 4 ways can help maintain your computer and speed up your PC. If you want to optimize your computer conveniently, you can install computer optimizer software like Topckit, which can easily fix your PC registry errors, remove junk files, clear sensitive information, etc. Once you use it, you will have a clear idea about what problems your PC has and where they are. You can keep your PC working normally only with several clicks. Do not miss the chances to use Topckit to optimize your computer.

View the original article here

Eight New Features in Windows 8 Phone

AppId is over the quota

Windows Phone 8 is much talked about in the technology news. Technology enthusiasts are always on a look out for the latest and so talking about the features of Windows 8 is something to look forward to. When it comes to Windows 8 enabled phone the most important thing to notice is that it is powered by many new features. The features provided in this phone are better than that of its predecessor as this system is based on NT; it also has a new Kernel. Let us find out more about it and the eight new features of this new phone.

• Startup screen
• Data usage alerts
• News & Movies Updates
• Maps available offline
• Me Tile Functionality
• Local Deals by Bing
• E-Wallet
• Card Data Swapping feature

Now let us explore each of the above given eight features one by one that makes this phone fascinating

Startup screen

The startup screen as provided in the new version of Windows is something that comes with an added advantage to a user. The screen is facilitated with a feature of resizing of icons or tiles. This way a user can add as many tiles as desired. Now it will be relatively easier to add more tiles on home screen as you can make way for new tiles by resizing them. This way you can quickly access apps added on start up screen without getting it cluttered or without space constraint.

Data usage alert

Often a user has to manually track the data usage while surfing online. Checking data via AT &T app is tiring but with this new Windows 8 user need not track data manually. The functionality of data tracking is automatic with this new version of Windows. Additionally, the added functionality of data alert also resizes and reduces the page size that is downloaded on the phone. This means quicker download and less data usage.

News & Movies Updates

People who are interested in catching up on latest news need not search for other options as the latest news updates will be provided by Bing. If you are keen on knowing about latest movie releases then you need not launch any third party app as Bing is here to provide you all the info you require. Latest news headlines and movie reviews, releases all are possible via Bing that comes pre-loaded with Windows8.

Maps available offline

Map facility is often available online to the consumers but here this facility is provided offline. You can utilize the Maps functionality without having to go online. This will help you save data usage and even battery life. Just go to the pre-loaded Maps and start searching for the desired location.

Me Tile Functionality

The new Windows Phone is most likely to have the functionality of Me tile. However, this functionality is available for users but whether or not this functionality is available for developers is still not clear. It can be utilized for customizing the screen lock to receive notifications and alerts on unread messages.

Local Deals by Bing

Traveling in a new city and looking for best deals without any guide is difficult if not impossible. However, Bing resolves this dilemma. You just need to look up for the latest deals available in your current location and you get the details of the deals.

E-Wallet

Probably the most convenient option made available to a user is that of E-wallet. This feature will be available to users in the latest version of Windows8 phone. This will facilitate the user in shopping without carrying cash or card. The best functionality of this e-wallet is that it is supportive of local deals by Bing.

Card Data Swapping Feature

The feature of card data swapping is available in Windows 8 enabled phone. This feature will enable in data swapping between devices. A user can user can easily swap contents of SD card and transfer photographs, files and music on to the PC.

All the above given eight features and functionalities are added to Windows 8 phone. These are easy to use. Technology geeks and average users will find these features fascinating alike. In conclusion, this phone comes up to user expectations in terms of technology and ease of usability.

As a senior tech support engineer at Qresolve.com Brandon Malcolm Smith has been offering online tech support to global customers for issues related to laptops, desktops, Mac and devices including iPods, tablets, iPhones and more. Moreover he is an avid writer of articles and blogs that are aimed to help Internet users. His areas of interests include computer support, tech support, emerging technologies and awareness on tech support scams.

View the original article here

What Is New About Windows 8 Multi-Monitor Technology?

Much has been talked about the new Windows 8 regarding the technology; there are still some things that are left, for example the multi-monitor support. Majority of users might be unaware about the tips and tricks that will enhance their experience with this new version of Windows. There are various things that you can do with multi-monitor display like, editing documents, browsing, chatting and e-mailing all at the same time. Let us find out what more is there to know about Windows8.

Edge Detection Technology

The earlier version of Windows was not fully capable of edge detection technology. The newer version is something that is more advance in features and in terms of edge detection. This technology is fully capacitated and the view is much clearer, a user will be easily able to make out the thumbnails of the applications that are running currently on the system.

You can easily locate Charms bar with a mouse over, all you need to do is to go to the icon located on the left hand side corner of the display and the Charms Bar will appear.

Now you will be able to activate the effects and view the edge detection. Another thing to keep in mind is that the area near the edge is narrow and you would require mouse precision to let the effect appear. It might take a while for you to exactly reveal the affect while mastering the art of mouse maneuver for the edges to appear.

Ability to Customize the Taskbar

With new Windows 8, you will be easily able to view different task bars on separate monitors. Now you need to do is to make a replica of the icons that are already displayed on the default task bar. This can be done by right mouse click on the task bar and select properties. This way you can choose to replicate the desired icons for quick shortcut on multiple screen displays and save time consumed in going back to the primary screen for surfing.

Utilizing New Keyboard Shortcuts

There are new keyboard shortcuts that you can utilize in Windows 8. These shortcuts are specially added in the new version of Windows. You can utilize the following:

• Page Up: Win+PageUp
• Page Down: Win+ PageDn
• To move from one side to another: Win+ Arrow keys

Using these new short cuts will enable in swapping through the screens easily and enable in smooth navigation.

Enabling Slideshows and Images for different screens

Do you know that with multi screen facility you can easily display different desktop in different screens?

This is made possible by selecting desired images from the given menu; it will then be displayed on the background of your desktop. You can also utilize the option of multiple-display and make it appear like a slide show. Another interesting thing that you can do is choose to customize the screen resolution and the ratio. You will be able to define the different modes like portrait or landscape view.

Easy Navigation

Navigating through multiple screens might seem cumbersome or time consuming and returning back to the main screen may seem a tedious task. This is made easy with Windows key that will help you return to the start screen and if you double, press this key then you will be able to return to full screen mode. Another way of doing it is Win+D while you are still working on multiple screen modes. Remember if you are already on the desktop mode then pressing Win+D will return to Start.

After going through the above-mentioned features about the new Windows 8 have you will be easily able to go through and discover the enhancements. These features are included for user convenience to provide a rich Windows experience to the tech savvy user. Additionally, you will be able to apply custom-made changes to individual screens. For those who are working on more than one project the multi screen facility is a boon to ease workability and productivity. This means a quicker, faster, efficient and easy to use Windows 8.

She is a Technology writer who is keen on any new emerging technology updates. She is working with Qresolve as a Technical Support Engineer. Semeli Karen McPherson has been offering online tech support to global customers for issues related to laptops, desktops, Mac and devices including iPods, tablets, iPhones,computer support and more.She caters to the segment of core technology and provides viable solutions to any issues related to technology and software. Her expertise and skills in handling key technology issues is immaculate and quick result bearing. Through her articles and postings she aims to provide knowledge and solutions to common technology issues that a user faces.

View the original article here

Windows XP Is Slow Shutting Down - How to Fix This Common Problem

AppId is over the quota

Slow shut-down times are among the most common complaints about the Windows XP operating system. Some of the most frequent causes include hardware incompatibility with peripheral devices, bugs in installed software programs, and settings with the Windows XP Wake On feature. Each of these problems takes a few relatively simple troubleshooting steps, and many XP users find them effective in most cases.

Windows XP was originally designed to be fully compatible with certain types of hardware devices. Although the list of workable hardware versions has grown each time XP has been updated, remaining problems with some peripherals can often slow the shut-down process. Scanners, printers, and more sophisticated keyboards are some of the most noticeable causes of this issue. Incompatible device drivers can also sometimes cause the XP system to reboot rather than shut down. The most workable test for this incompatibility is to unplug each device and check for any differences in shut-down speed. Some XP users find that updating their printer driver or replacing their keyboard with a more generic one will fix this problem.

Some installations of Windows XP come with installed software programs that have been released with bugs despite their programmers' careful error checking. One of the most frequent culprits behind slow shut-down times is a bug in version 5 of the Roxio Easy CD Creator. A downloadable patch is available from the Roxio website to fix this problem. Users can alternately download and install a later version of this CD creation program. Either of these easy fixes most often speeds up a slow XP shut-down process.

Windows XP's Wake On setting can also cause slow system shut down times. For computers with dial-up connections, the Wake On feature allows the system to reboot as needed when the modem line rings. Received LAN packets can also cause the automatic reboot if the Wake On setting is activated. If the system is too slow to shut down or reboots instead of shutting down, the Wake On setting sometimes needs to be adjusted. Users can fix this issue by going to the Windows Device Manager and finding the system's network card. The next step is to right-click the network card, select Properties, and go to the Power Management tab. Unchecking the box labeled "Allow this device to bring the computer out of standby" completes these troubleshooting steps.

An additional common solution for a slow shut down is to check the version of the installed video card. Some outdated versions of the Nvidia Driver can cause problems with the system shutting down. Updating the video card usually fixes this problem.

Installing certain kinds of anti-spyware can sometimes slow the shut down because they activate the operating system's security features designed to erase the system's cache and virtual memory with every shut down. These features are normally disabled because their processes take a long time to finish before the machine can fully shut down. Users with problem can manually disable these security measures by editing the Windows Group Policy. This process can be done by typing GPEDIT.MSC into the Run command prompt and then navigating to the security options under the local polices located in the Windows Settings folder.

Did you find this article very informative? If so, then learn more about why my computer keeps freezing by checking out a great web resource that is dedicated to helping people who's computer keeps freezing.

View the original article here

Deleting Duplicate Files in Windows 7 - How to Delete Duplicate Files on Your Computer?

AppId is over the quota

A lot of people find many duplicate files in their new Windows 7 system after using it for a while. They not only waste limited disk space but also bring you great inconvenience when you are looking for files that you need. This article is going to tell you how to delete duplicate files in Windows 7.

This is a very simple method that you can use to get rid of them in minutes. You only need to follow the steps as below:

Step 1. Open Your Computer.
Right click your "Computer" and select "Open". You are in the root directory of your hard drive now.

Step 2. Enter File name.
In the Search box, enter the file name that may be duplicated. Press "Enter" and the scan will start automatically. Please note that you are scanning the whole computer now. If you want to scan other locations, you need to browse to the location first. And then start the scan.

Step 3. Compare and remove.
After the scan completes, a list of detected files that contain the same file name will be shown in the window. Right click black area, select "View" and then select "Details". Now you can see all the information of the files such as file size, modified date, type and so on. Now you need to compare them carefully.

If you find it is hard to compare, right click black area again and select "Sort". You can choose to sort the files by "Type", "Name", "Modified Date", etc. That will help you find the duplicates and then remove them easily.

The Shortcomings
Although the above method is very easy to find and delete duplicates, it still has several shortcomings. Firstly, it can only search files by file name. That means the identical files that have different names will not be detected at all.

Besides, this method is applicable when you have only several files to deal with. If you have many files to manage, you will find it very slow and inefficient. You need to repeat the steps for a thousand times to get rid of all the duplicate files on your hard drive.

The Best Way
If you have only few files, the mentioned-above method is good for you. But if you have a pile of files to deal with, the best way is to use a Windows 7 duplicate file finder. It is much easier and faster than the above-mentioned method.

You can click here to use a Duplicate File Finder to help you delete duplicate files in your Windows 7 quickly. And you can click here to read more and find out how to Delete duplicate files in windows 7.

View the original article here

How To Set A User Password On Windows 7

AppId is over the quota

If you need to setup a password in Windows 7 this short tutorial will show you how. Setting up a password in Windows vista is very similar to this process so can be used in vista too if that is the operating system you are running.

Setting a password on your Windows 7 computer offers you some basic protection for your files and folders and is recommended for anyone who has more than one user in the house. The password also prevents other accounts on the computer accessing your files. The files it protects are things like documents, pictures, music, favourites and any other folders that are created under the user account

To setup a Windows 7 password on your user account you first need to go to the control panel. This can be found by clicking the Windows start button in the bottom left corner and then selecting control panel on the right hand side.

1. Once in control panel select user accounts. If you have your view set to category mode select the add or remove user accounts option. This is in the right hand column under User accounts and family safety.

2. Once you are into the user account control section select the user account that you wish to password protect by left clicking on it once

3. You will now have a new window that has a variety of options and settings that you can change. We are interested only in creating a password so select create a password.

4. On the new screen you will be asked to enter a new password. Be sure to make this a difficult to guess password but also one that you can remember as removing a password or recovering a forgotten password is very difficult.

Once you have entered a password enter it again identically in the box below. You may also leave yourself a password hint that you can click should you forget the password but remember that anyone can see this hint so be sure not to put something like pets name.

5. Once you have done the above simply click the create password button at the bottom to enable your password.

You can now close the control panel Windows by clicking the red x at the top right corner of the screen.

If you wish to test your password go to the start menu button and then select log off. Once your account has logged off you should be presented with the user login screen which should now ask you for a password before allowing you to access the computer.

Craig is a Computer Repair Technician and blogger who offers advice and tutorials on all things tech related at his blog computerlearnhow such as How to Create A Secure Password and other useful tutorials.

View the original article here

Windows Virtual Private Server Hosting - Features

AppId is over the quota

Windows virtual private server hosting is the most popular and the advanced technology available at the moment. This is the particular hosting that you need for the proper development of business. It provides you exceptional solution when you have limited resources. Using this plan, you can easily manage your backups. The best hosting provides you flexibility and scalability. So, now you do not need to spend hours on the management and scaling of the system. The system also does the upgrading of the virtual server automatically. You can also integrate your own applications in the system. The only issue with the hosting is the cost of server. The reason of the high cost of the Windows server is their usage and proprietary software. Window is known for providing graphical user interface that is not only friendly but easy for basic users. Unlike Linux, or other operating systems, it is very easy to support virtual servers using Windows private server hosting.

This type of hosting is cheaper than the dedicated server hosting. Business communities consider Windows virtual private server hosting because they can enjoy all the features of the dedicated servers by using it. But, why these servers are best? They are best because their management is easy. Another advantage of this type of hosting is equipment. You have to deal with physical systems in dedicated servers. But, with Windows virtual private server hosting you do not need any physical system. It is easily available to users from online websites. Many online websites offer cheap hosting plans. Microsoft itself is offering cheap hosting plans for working with small and the large-scale organizations. The best features of the Windows hosting include installable programs, software compatibility, large storage space, individual operating systems and the robust options.

This type of hosting is a reliable solution because it performs the task of dedicated physical servers as well as virtual servers. Any hosting plan depends on the applications. If you have access to the root server, then surely you can control all the features of Windows virtual hosting. Although it is a cheap solution, but it does not mean that it is not effective. Every application of the dedicated servers also runs on these servers. So, one can say that this hosting is reliable. Microsoft Windows has enough ability to give reliable features of the virtual servers.

Windows virtual private server hosting provides you excellent features that were not present in the older hosting plans. But, the top ten features of this hosting plan are as follows. It offers you complete root access and the authority to control the server like a dedicated server. It offers share hosting that is less expensive than the dedicated hosting. It is best option for those businesses which want cost-effective solution. It also offers flexibility and the best command service. You do not need to share any resources with the users which enables secure environment. If you want to handle multiple functions, it offers you various configurations for handling them. It also allows you to run multiple domains with faster speed and up gradation. The preference is yours, but Linux hosting is not for the beginners, and Windows hosting is for everyone.

This articles is written by an expert who is writing in the field of server hosting from many years. This article helps in understanding the features and reliability of windows virtual private server hosting.

View the original article here

A Dummies guide to WCF Windows Communication Foundation

Microsoft .NET development framework is a platform for development, deployment, and management of applications for the desktop, Web, and Web services. The .NET framework contains the common language runtime (CLR) and a class library which contains pre-developed code for faster and quicker application development. Microsoft is increasingly focusing on a global footprint for .NET development especially among high-potential emerging markets like India. .NET development India has been boosted by .NET offshore projects, 3rd-party .NET training institutes, high quality of .NET developers, increasing availability of .NET developer positions, etc. Windows Communication Foundation (WCF) is a part of the .NET framework.

What is WCF?

WCF is a unified programming model within .NET development framework for developing and deploying service-oriented applications that seamlessly interface over the Web and across the enterprise. WCF makes it easy and convenient to develop Web services and Web service clients rapidly. Service-oriented programs built through .NET development framework can communicate among service endpoints. Service endpoints can either be a service of an application or a client requesting the service.

WCF features

Extensible: WCF has admission ports to incorporate extra functionality as required through customization of the service

Interoperable: WCF integrates numerous Web services specifications such as HTTP, SOAP, XML, XOP, WSS, etc., complying with the standards of Web service interoperability.

Secure: WCF complies with security service standards like SSL and WS-SecureConversation and supports encryption and user authentication thus ensuring privacy protection.

Durable: WCF saves messages in a database hence messages are never lost due to communication breakdowns. The data is extracted from the database to ensure complete transmission when communication is restored. Such a message created in WCF is called as a "durable message".

Reliable: WCF ensures reliability of messages between a reliable messaging source and reliable messaging destination through WS-Reliable Messaging over MSMQ.

… and much more: WCF supports creation of service-oriented applications in service-oriented architecture (SOA) wherein any client can communicate with any service without barriers. WCF .NET development ensures multiple message patterns like request/reply pattern, one-way messaging pattern, duplex messaging pattern, etc. WCF can be used to publish metadata that will set up clients to use WCF services. Metadata publication uses formats like WSDL, WS-Policy, and XML Schema over HTTPS/HTTP/Web Service Metadata Exchange.

System requirements and applications development

WCF is installed on Windows Vista by default. It can be installed on Windows Server 2003 SP1, Windows Server 2003 R2, and Windows XP SP2. Developing distributed, service-oriented applications in WCF will include the following: developing/designing/deploying WCF service and client applications, configuring the services, hosting the services, and leveraging other WCF capabilities such as incorporation of extensibility options.

View the original article here

How to Back Up System Information in Windows 7

AppId is over the quota

Taking a backup requires making copies or copying all the essential data including files, folders and passwords in a safe storage device. These copies are known as backups. These can be taken either on a USB flash device, external HDD or even DVD according to the requirement and the size of the files that require backup. Backups of system information is mandatory so that valuable data is not lost due to system related issues or accidents.

Why do you require a backup?

There are various reasons why a user would require to take a backup. Here are some of the major ones:
• Software error
• Disk crash
• System damage
• Virus attack

For all these reasons you would require to take a data backup of all the files that exist on the system.

How to back up System Information in Windows 7?

If you wish to carry out the process of taking backup of system information on Windows 7 then you need to perform the following steps:

1. Start>> Control Panel> System and Security>System>System protection
2. Click 'Create on the System Protection' tab
3. Enter a name to the backup label

With this Windows 7 will initialize the process of data backup which will take a while. When the process is completed; you will see a message stating that the process is complete.

In order to restore the system again repeat step 1. Then go to the System Restore option. Then you will be asked to choose the restore point to roll back the system to the condition where everything was working fine. Remember that while choosing the date and the given time all your data, applications and software updates may be wiped off the system or lost. For this reason back is created.

Problems with Windows 7

It is often that Windows 7 users complain of less disk space. The problem persists even after upgrading the system to the newer version. This issue can be resolved by creating a partition. But then one requires to first take a data backup which can be utilized at the time of system restore. Partition creation is carried out manually but it requires thorough technical knowledge. Another issue is that of compatibility conflicts. Often the user downloads an application without checking its compatibility with the system. This creates conflicts. There are essential system requirements for any given application or a software program that need to be in accordance with the system. If these requirements are met with then you will not face any problems.

She is a Technology writer who is keen on any new emerging technology updates. She is working with Qresolve as a Technical Support Engineer. Semeli Karen McPherson has been offering online tech support to global customers for issues related to laptops, desktops, Mac and devices including iPods, tablets, iPhones, computer support and more.She caters to the segment of core technology and provides viable solutions to any issues related to technology and software. Her expertise and skills in handling key technology issues is immaculate and quick result bearing. Through her articles and postings she aims to provide knowledge and solutions to common technology issues that a user faces.

View the original article here

How to Reset Windows 7 Password by Using Its Installation Disc?

AppId is over the quota

Passwords are good but they can be easily forgotten. A forgotten password sometimes brings you troubles, even disasters. Luckily, there always exits some approaches to recover or reset a forgotten password. Here's a look at how to reset a forgotten Windows 7 password with an installation disc.

You might have been told to use a password reset disk or another admin account to reset a forgotten Windows 7 password. But for most users, these are unless when they get the password forgotten. The password reset disk must be created before your password is forgotten while most users forgot the only administrator password. If you are one of those users, please try to use your installation disc instead.

Reset Windows 7 password with an installation disc

By using this method, all you need is a copy of the Windows installation disk and Sticky Keys trick (an accessibility feature that allows a user to tap the Shift, Ctrl, Alt, or Windows key once to achieve the same effect as holding the key down).

1. Boot your computer from the installation disc.

2. After loading the setup files, select your language and click Next -> click the Repair your computer link on the Install Windows screen -> select the operating system to repair and click Next -> click Command Prompt to open a command prompt window.

3. On the command prompt, type "copy c:\windows\system32\sethc.exe c:\" and press Enter. And then type "copy /y c:\windows\system32\cmd.exe c:\windows\system32\sethc.exe" and press Enter.

4. Reboot the computer. On the logon screen, tap Shift five times and you'll see an administrator mode command prompt.

5. Now you can reset the password. Just type "net user MyUserName MyNewPassword" (replace the MyUserName and MyUserPassword with the combination you want) and press Enter.

6. Exit the Command Prompt, and log into the computer using your new password.

Notes:

1. To prevent other users from using the same trick to reset your password, you put the original sethc.exe file back. Reboot your computer form the installation CD and then open the command prompt by taking steps above. Next type "copy /y c:\sethc.exe c:\windows\system32\sethc.exe" and press Enter.

2. By taking this method, you will lose access to encrypted files, encrypted email messages, and stored passwords for Internet Explorer and network resources. Remember to back up your important data regularly.

Reset Windows 7 password without a installation disc

Don't have an installation disc at hand? Don't worry! You still have opportunities to reset your forgotten password. That's to use Rekeysoft Windows Password Recovery. This software allows you to burn a bootable password reset CD/DVD/USB and reset the forgotten password instantly. 100% security is guaranteed.

1. Download and install Rekeysoft Windows Password Recovery in any other PC.

2. Burn a bootable password reset disk with a CD/DVD or USB flash drive in seconds.

3. Boot the computer that you want to reset password of from the CD/DVD/USB.

4. Reset your forgotten password to blank by following the instructions of DOS command prompt. This takes you only 1-2 minutes.

5. Reboot computer and log into your computer without password.

There is no need to worry about forgetting Windows 7 password from now on. You can easily reset Windows 7 password by using its installation disc.

View the original article here

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

AppId is over the quota

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.

View the original article here

We Apologize for the Inconvenience, But Windows Did Not Start Successfully

You may encounter the message: "We apologize for the inconvenience, but Windows did not start successfully. A recent hardware or software change might have caused this."

This might be indicative of software error, corrupted files and bad sectors on the hard drive. But this error can be resolved. You only need to know the basic functionality of your PC and its software. Here are few methods that will help you deal with this error message while starting Windows XP.

Repairing Windows by running CHKDSK

- You first need to restart your system with Recovery Console and run CHKDSK. This should be done with the 'Repair' option. This is done to ensure error free hard disk.
- To start up the recovery in Windows XP insert the installation disk and boot from it
- A setup screen for Windows XP will open up where you need to choose the 'Repair' option to enable utilizing recovery console. Press R key for this
- Choose the installation and type 1. Then press Enter
- In the software window type CHKDSK /r to enable the disk check

This reinstalls the OS without affecting the data.

Repair installation of Windows

Now you again require applying the Windows or software updates. For this you require to boot your PC from the disk and press 'Enter'. This process is similar to the reinstallation process of Windows. Your existing system files are being replaced without adversely affecting your data. After following the commands you will be able to restore Windows back to factory settings. Here you need to ensure that you are using the genuine installation disk that comes with the system.

Configure the operating system

This is the last way to solve the issues related to the error: "We apologize for the inconvenience, but Windows did not start successfully". For this you need to boot the system and press the F8 function key.

Then select the option of "Last known good configuration" from the Advance menu

This will restore our system back to the state when it was working fine. If this still does not work then in the 'Run' command box type:

%systemroot%\system32\restore\rstrui.exe

You will need to follow the instructions to restore your system to previous state. This will fix the errors and other software related issues. The steps mentioned above will help you solve the issues related to the error message: "We apologize for the inconvenience, but Windows did not start successfully. A recent hardware or software change might have caused this."

Marigold Henry Montana is a technical expert who deals with various computer related issues. She is capable of handling the software as well as hardware troubleshooting. She advises people on basic upkeep and maintenance of their PC, Laptops, Notebooks and Tablets. She is working as a freelance technology writer and as fulltime online tech support for a well known IT software company. Her aim is to spread the technical know-how to the people all around the globe.

View the original article here

Four Solutions about How to Reset Windows Password

For a computer user, Windows password forgot are certainly not unfamiliar to you. It is maybe because you forgot it or others changed it without telling you. Anyway, now the only thing you need to do is to find or hack Windows password to access your locked computer. If you are still worried about how hard it would be to find the lost password, Please move up to fight against this problem and take the below solutions as a reference.

Solution 1: Use password hint
A password hint is a reminder to you of how you made up your password. Some systems let you enter a password hint s. If you forget your password, the hint will be displayed to help jog your memory. When you create a password to log on to Windows7/XP/Vista, you can create a hint to help you remember it. The password hint will appear below the password entry box, after you input a wrong password and click OK.

Solution 2: Use a accessible administrator account
Standard user account with admin right and administrator account are both available. Standard User account only allows you to use most software and change system settings that do not affect users and security of computer. But administrator account has complete access to the computer and makes any changes. So you can easily perform Windows password recovery if you can log on your compute with a Windows account with administrator privileges.

Solution 3: Safe Mode
This method may works if you didn't reset the default admin account password. During our windows system installation, it creates a default admin account without password. So how do I use safe mode to change Windows password, below is the detail. Restart your computer or laptops, keep pressing F8 before windows loads, then you will be able to go to safe mode, the default account appears in the log in screen, click that account, you will enter the system, you are allowed to go to control panel to change your other account password.

Solution 4: Windows Password Reset Deluxe
Fail in the methods above to change your password? Well, with Windows Password Reset Deluxe, there is still no need to worry about your problems .No need to call a technician, no need to re-install anything, and you certainly don't need to reformat. It works on all and any Windows versions and computers any age. Below is the step-by-step guide for you to see how it works:
Step 1: Download and install Windows Password Reset Deluxe on another computer which can link the Internet
Step 2: Insert a CD/DVD disk into the CD-ROM drive or USB Flash Drive into a USB port on the computer to create a Windows Password Reset Disk.
Step3: Insert newly created USB Flash Drive and reboot your computer. Select "Reset Windows local account password" to reset the local account password, and select "Reset Windows domain administrator password" to reset the domain administrator password. Then, reboot your computer, you will find you can log on your computer successfully.

Those solutions above are collected by me, and I used to reset windows password in those ways, especially adopt the Windows Password Reset Deluxe. Hopefully it could be handy and helpful to you all.

View the original article here

Four Solutions about How to Reset Windows Password

For a computer user, Windows password forgot are certainly not unfamiliar to you. It is maybe because you forgot it or others changed it without telling you. Anyway, now the only thing you need to do is to find or hack Windows password to access your locked computer. If you are still worried about how hard it would be to find the lost password, Please move up to fight against this problem and take the below solutions as a reference.

Solution 1: Use password hint
A password hint is a reminder to you of how you made up your password. Some systems let you enter a password hint s. If you forget your password, the hint will be displayed to help jog your memory. When you create a password to log on to Windows7/XP/Vista, you can create a hint to help you remember it. The password hint will appear below the password entry box, after you input a wrong password and click OK.

Solution 2: Use a accessible administrator account
Standard user account with admin right and administrator account are both available. Standard User account only allows you to use most software and change system settings that do not affect users and security of computer. But administrator account has complete access to the computer and makes any changes. So you can easily perform Windows password recovery if you can log on your compute with a Windows account with administrator privileges.

Solution 3: Safe Mode
This method may works if you didn't reset the default admin account password. During our windows system installation, it creates a default admin account without password. So how do I use safe mode to change Windows password, below is the detail. Restart your computer or laptops, keep pressing F8 before windows loads, then you will be able to go to safe mode, the default account appears in the log in screen, click that account, you will enter the system, you are allowed to go to control panel to change your other account password.

Solution 4: Windows Password Reset Deluxe
Fail in the methods above to change your password? Well, with Windows Password Reset Deluxe, there is still no need to worry about your problems .No need to call a technician, no need to re-install anything, and you certainly don't need to reformat. It works on all and any Windows versions and computers any age. Below is the step-by-step guide for you to see how it works:
Step 1: Download and install Windows Password Reset Deluxe on another computer which can link the Internet
Step 2: Insert a CD/DVD disk into the CD-ROM drive or USB Flash Drive into a USB port on the computer to create a Windows Password Reset Disk.
Step3: Insert newly created USB Flash Drive and reboot your computer. Select "Reset Windows local account password" to reset the local account password, and select "Reset Windows domain administrator password" to reset the domain administrator password. Then, reboot your computer, you will find you can log on your computer successfully.

Those solutions above are collected by me, and I used to reset windows password in those ways, especially adopt the Windows Password Reset Deluxe. Hopefully it could be handy and helpful to you all.

View the original article here