Tag: Windows Vista

  • How to Close Pidgin Chat Windows with the Escape Key

    Pidgin (formerly known as Gaim) is a free, multi-protocol instant messaging application for Windows, Mac, and Linux.  Pidgin is highly customizable and supports popular instant messaging networks like Google Talk, MSN/Windows Live Messenger, AIM, Yahoo! Chat, and can connect to services like Facebook Chat through plugins (or directly through the XMPP messaging protocol). In recent…

  • How to Enable Windows 7′s “Aero Snap” Feature in Earlier Versions of Windows

    One of my favorite features in Windows 7 is Aero Snap, which automatically resizes and snaps applications to the sides of your screen when you drag them near.  If you’ve got several windows open on one screen, this is a great way to manage your space (and I’ve learned it’s even more useful when working…

  • Fix: What To Do if Removing a Virus Blocks Executable (.EXE) Files From Opening

    I have recently observed that after removing certain fake anti-spyware viruses (such as “Windows Security Center” or “Anti Virus 2010″), all executable (.exe) files will no longer open.  No matter what file you try to open – iTunes, Firefox, or even Malwarebytes – they will not open because they are all .exe files. To fix…

  • Fix: Windows Vista 64-bit Gets Blue Screen After Windows Updates

    A recent Windows Update (KB973879) has been causing a “blue screen of death” (stop error) in many computers running Windows Vista 64-bit edition.  Many of the affected computers are HP Pavillion dv Series laptops (such as dv4 and dv6 models), but we have had reports of other manufactures having the same issues.  The problem occurs…

  • Encrypt Your Data with BitLocker

    Data security is more important than ever in modern times, so to help keep your files safe, Windows Vista (Enterprise and Ultimate editions), Windows 7, and Windows Server 2008 include an encryption program called BitLocker. BitLocker is essentially a software encryption program that encrypts a drive in such a way that if credentials are not…

  • How to Rebroadcast a Weak Wifi Signal

    There may be a time when you have access to a wireless network in one part of your house, but just can’t get it anywhere else.  This isn’t a big deal if you own the network (you can buy another access point or wireless repeater), but if you don’t own the network, this guide will…

  • How To: Change The Default Location of Documents, Pictures, and Music Folders in Windows

    Saving your documents, pictures, and music to a separate partition from your operating system is a great practice to follow because it makes installing/reinstalling an operating system easier, allows you to access your files from a different operating system, and helps save your data in the event of a hard drive failure. This guide will…