CyberCoyote - November 20, 2008

NEWS and NOTES
Free Internet Video Calls

The Skype service lets you use your computer to place calls, and also video calls to virtually anyone, anywhere in the world. Their basic service is free. Most newer laptops already have a camera and microphone, so all you need is the Skype (free) software and you're in business. Bob Talley demonstrated Skype for us today, and although the video only worked in one direction, we got a good idea of how it works.

My Computer Works

They provide a local (Scottsdale) person-to-person support service for you and your computer. Taylor Scott described their service and gave us a brief demo. Under their plan, you pay a fixed fee each month, and get unlimited, same-day support in using your computer or fixing problems. My Computer Works techs use the Internet to access and control your computer so that you can show them problems, or ask questions directly, and see them fix the problem or get answers right on your display.

Recycle Dell Equipment

Our HT computer/electronics recycling is handy for the gear you have here, but you may not have a good option in the off season. Now, Dell has partnered with Staples to recycle Dell branded products, and there are over 1,500 Staples stores. Dell has also cleaned up their customer service in the last couple of years. However, I recommend that you look at "office" rather than "home" models to get the best support at Dell (and also HP).

TECH TOPICS
End of the road for Windows XP?

Windows Vista has gradually improved to the point where it is better than XP (IMHO). Many of us are still running XP though. XP will reach the end of mainstream support on Apr. 14, 2009. Does that mean we'll be forced to upgrade to Windows Vista?

That question was meant to be alarming. ;-) All the end point means is that if you bought your own copy of Windows XP, and have trouble after that date, you'll need to pay Microsoft for help.

Most people got their copy of Windows with their new computer from HP, Dell, Lenova or some other OEM. So any free support they got was from the OEM, not Microsoft. You can see there is nothing to fear except fear itself (sorry Franklin). :-)

If you're like me, and plan to leapfrog Vista and land on Windows 7, everything is going to work out just fine. In fact we may be able to get a new Windows 7 computer as early as this time next year. Even if Vista is not available for another year after that, Windows XP isn't going to suddenly stop working. ;-) And if you already have a Vista machine, I'll bet that a Windows 7 upgrade would run just fine on it.

Web browser tutorials

Find out what you're missing on your new browser.

No matter what your browser of choice, chances are it has features that you are either unaware of or that you just don't know how to use. Don't feel ashamed. Today's browsers are so powerful that most everyday users tend to miss out on some functionality. However, with the following tutorials you can become an expert in no time.

More at About.com

SECURITY
Web of trust
WOT is a free Internet security add-on for your browser. It will keep you safe from online scams, identity theft, spyware, spam, viruses and unreliable shopping sites. WOT warns you before you interact with a risky website. It's easy and it's free.

WOT website

ODDS and ENDS
Woodland Security

Border Patrol in action.

Some pop-ups are allowed

--from Lolcats

Public Service Announcement

Tired of Bud Lite? You can find just about any kind of beer you could imagine at the new BevMo! (or wine too for that matter). :-) I suggest something from Deschutes Brewery. My favorites are Mirror Pond Ale, Black Butte Porter and their unequaled Obsidian Stout. Try the last one if you really want a change. ;-) In any case, drink them from a proper glass, not the bottle. [BevMo.com]

That's all, folks.

Subscriber options and other information: