Introduction

Hello Everyone and welcome to Computer Solutions. I am feeling great to be a part of Computer Solutions. This is a wonderful way to share our ideas on computer. I am trying hard to cover every topic in this site. I think you will find this blog as enjoyable as I do in writing for it. What I am about to write / discuss is not going to make me very popular. I am just trying to share my ideas and experience in the field of computer with you. Now who I am, my name is Rakesh Kumar Kamandal from Lucknow India. As far as my job profile is concerned, I am a System Administrator (A+ certified) also being CCNA certified I am having skills in networking too. I am hopeful that if you are feeling burned out or sorely dissatisfied (Please note: others will have their struggle that maybe worse than your predicament).

I hope to help you (if I can) in some way. I always had strong interest in computers and technology. This eventually led me to start my own computer business in computer repair and in the process, I came through so many new tricks I never thought of. Now when it comes to your career you need to choose something which you enjoy doing.

Sometimes you have to sit and think if it is actually worth the time and money to repair a computer that is all this site is all about, doing repairs in a timely manner. I learned all these tricks when I was Engineer in a press and my downtime (time to bring the computer up) was very low because of the punctuality of that newspaper. I worked really very hard to know these tricks, which are really time saving, rather I will call them life saving tricks, so that there is no delay in the publishing of the newspaper.


I am very grateful to my father, he is someone very close to my heart for encouraging and inspiring me to tryout something different in life. Special thanks to Mr. Udai Kumar Verma (Senior IT Manager Hindustan Times) for guiding me in the right direction and providing me solutions for critical problems in computer, in the early stage of my career. I learned a lot under him. So enjoy reading articles in Computer Solutions and extract the best out of it.
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Gates Foundation Grants Internet Access Assistance to US Public Libraries

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is continuously providing assistance to public libraries across the United States through Opportunity Online program. The philanthropic organization’s grants cover installation and improvement of Internet access to help provide high-quality, fast, and free online connection to specific computer workstations and centers in public libraries, which in turn are used by many people.

Opportunity Online is granting assistance in the form of funding, technical support, and associated training for at least two years per public library. This program is primarily focused on assisting public libraries that are in turn serving bigger populations. Public libraries that are almost vulnerable to having obsolete technology are prioritized. Eligible libraries should at the same time be able to secure funding commitments before receiving any grant from the program. This is to make sure there is appropriate community support for maintenance of computer upgrades.

It is estimated that about 40% of the US population are still not enjoying Internet access at their homes. Thus, public libraries are serving and facilitating critical link between users and technology, especially to many who are not able to afford getting Internet access services on their own. It is not surprising that currently, millions of Americans are using Internet through public libraries in different purposes like earning long-distance education degrees, starting and advancing small businesses, finding critical information on jobs, learning better English, getting e-government services and information, and many more.

Most public libraries are applying for potential grants from Opportunity Online because Internet access has really become among the most essential services that are required by people. Library administrators assert that their facilities must be able to maintain technology tools to help more people access and use information and services offered online.

However, there are still many concerns and requirements that many public libraries should address as they start and keep facilitating Internet access to numerous users. First, the average 256 KBPS connection to Internet network has to be ramped up. At present, most libraries that are capable to connect online are not able to support bandwidth traffic activities like MP3 downloading (for sound and video files), video-streaming, and other forms of interactive communication.

Opportunity Online could commit to investing in public libraries’ connectivity, training, research, and even advocacy. The program could not in any way fully takeover or fund what public libraries need. That is why aside from Opportunity Online grants, libraries should also secure other support from local governments and non-government organizations in their communities. The program is set to only jumpstart the initiative. In the long run, public libraries are expected to be able to support their online services on their own.

Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, based in Seattle, is working to help many people lead productive, comfortable, and healthy lives. The organization is guided accordingly by the belief that every single life has real and equal value. Within developing countries, the foundation is focused on helping people improve their health and providing opportunities for them to stay out of hunger and burden from possible extreme poverty. In the US, the foundation seeks to make sure all people get the ability to seize opportunities to succeed. That is why providing Internet access is one of the priority projects of the organization.
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Internet Access as a Human Right

Internet access is considered one of the most basic and important necessities in life these days. People use the online media to facilitate some of the most important and useful transactions these days. Internet access has become so important that it is now hard to imagine life and businesses without the Internet. Have you ever imagined a world where Internet access is considered a basic human right?

The United Nations is currently pushing to make countries consider Internet access as a human right. The organization made the push when it started calling for universal access to important and basic information and communication services at the assembly of UN Administrative Committee on Coordination during the onset of the 21st century. The UN seems really determined to make it happen. Aside from that initial move, in 2003, it also pushed for the same cause when it addressed delegates of the World Summit on Information Society.

Have you heard of countries that already acted on the call? Currently, France, Estonia, and Greece have enacted and enforced laws that make Internet access as a human right. This surprises other nations, but for consumers who know how important and useful online media is, it is just about time. Many observers, analysts, and advocates are waiting for the time more other countries follow suit. It is expected that in no time, many other nations and governments would do likewise.

Millions of consumers and online users are logging online everyday to use and enjoy the services offered across the Internet. As the number of online users rise, so is the number of Websites that are currently operational. It is estimated that every hour, tens of new online sites are being developed and rolled out. Most businesses these days are putting up and strengthening their online presence.

What could consumers do while online? As mentioned, basic transactions could now be conducted and completed through the Internet. People could shop for clothes, collectors’ items, foods, gadgets, appliances, furniture, jewels, and just about anything through the Internet. Specific online sites could also sell concert, movie, plane, and even ferry tickets. Aside from shopping, people could also do basic banking transactions online, like depositing and transferring of funds.

What’s more? Entertainment could easily be accessed online. Some movies, videos, news streams, and amateur clips could be downloaded through the Internet. Computer applications and software could be electronically sold, sent, and downloaded online as well. Booking and reservations for accommodations in other cities and countries could also be done. Whatever transaction, it seems that the Internet could now make it possible for anyone to complete activities and payments online.

Internet access is made for convenience. Now, people do not have to leave their homes to buy anything. Online shopping sites could facilitate online buying and selling of goods and services. To most consumers, this could translate to big savings in time, in efforts, and in money. It is just not surprising why many users and consumers turn to the Internet for basic services and transactions.

If many people are now enjoying the usefulness and advantage of the online media, why would others be spared from enjoying the same perks and functionalities? If Internet access would successfully be made a human right, more people would surely enjoy and use it for their own benefit.
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Internet Access Delivers $32 Billion of Benefits to US

A 2009 study has estimated that actual worth of benefits brought about by broadband Internet access to Americans reached more than $32 billion in 2008. The research, conducted by industry experts Robert Willig, Mark Dutz, and Jonathan Orszag, was aimed at quantifying and scaling the actual usefulness and advantages of fast online connectivity to most regular Internet users. It was based on the observation that almost all important transactions could now be facilitated online.

The $32 billion figure was derived through considering several important factors. It was found that actual valuation imposed by consumers to their broadband services totaled $60 billion. From the figure, actual amount of access costs for the year was deducted, which was $28 billion. The $32 billion figure is obviously significant and enormous.

Findings of the study and the estimate reveals that broadband Internet access is currently considered a basic necessity among US citizens. Many households now consider Internet connection as among the necessary utilities. This is not surprising because as mentioned, almost all important transactions could be facilitated through the Internet. People could now shop, reserve tickets, do research, get entertainment, and do almost anything imaginable online.

What are the basic benefits from Internet access aside from those mentioned? Consumers find the online media beneficial especially when they are transacting for education, work, health care, communication, news, civic affairs, and entertainment. In fact, many companies are now heavily investing to further strengthen their online market foothold. This is because almost all significant businesses are now online, as many consumers now prefer to transact businesses online as well.

The same research has found that adoption of home broadband services has increased to about six times since 2001. In 2008, about 66.6 million households were having regular broadband Internet connection, from just about 10.4 million households in 2001. The drastic rise is very obvious. No other emerging technology has been warmly accepted in American households like broadband Internet access. Dial-up and other inferior Internet access connections were even excluded in the figure.

In line with this, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan has allotted $7.2 billion for further development and improvement of the current broadband Internet infrastructure in the country. The body has entrusted the amount to the US Federal Communications Commission, which is currently developing its massive national broadband strategy. The project is aimed at furthering empowering the government to establish a partnership with private sector in helping deliver better, faster, and more reliable Internet access to more household across the US.

The proponents of the study asserted that the research was able to meet its goals, which was to quantify recent growth in value of broadband Internet access, as seen and perceived by American consumers and users. The study was the first one that dealt with this quantification. The $32 billion estimate for annual Internet access benefits to consumers is expected to further rise in the coming years.

Many analysts and observers note that Internet access and infrastructure in the US is not as developed and as strong as its counterparts in certain countries in Europe. However, because of the fact that Americans are heavy Internet users, market observers believe the US government would not let local Internet infrastructure lag behind. This of course is good news to most American consumers who are into using broadband Internet access for basic transactions.
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What could Happen If Internet Access is Locked Down?

These days, the Internet is considered as a very basic and necessary tool that facilitates socialization, entertainment, business, and even usual daily chores. It is just unimaginable how life could be without online connectivity. Have you ever pictured out what could possibly happen if ever Internet access is locked down?

To be able to illustrate and visualize a scenario that could arise from an online access lockdown, it would be helpful if what happened in Xinjiang province in China could be looked at. During the first week of July 2009, the Chinese government blocked Internet access in all of Xinjiang. The measure was a form of security action after an alleged Muslim ethnic minority grouped used social networking sites and instant messaging programs to plan, implement, and conduct a series of violent attacks against a Han Chinese ethnic majority group.

After about 200 people were killed and around 1,600 were injured, China said it decided to prevent further spread of violent riots through blocking Internet access in the entire province. For several weeks, there was no form of Internet connection in the area. The measure was effective as the violent attacks apparently subsided. But it took sometime before Internet access was restored because the government had to make sure several groups would not resume to using online media to perpetuate crime against other people and groups.

What was the major implication of the lockdown? In general, the action crippled and slowed down operations of most local companies, specifically those that rely on online operations. Businessmen and firms were left worried for a few weeks about when Internet access could resume. The result: many local businesses incurred major losses, some even were threatened to close shops for good.

In a non-democratic nation like China, Internet access is useful mainly for business purposes, although some people are able to use the media for entertainment albeit at certain restrictions and censorship. Because most companies are heavily reliant on the Internet for basic operations, there was a disaster when online media was cut down. Most business transactions were prevented and blocked.

Many smaller firms are basically e-businesses. Logically, they are the most affected by such government action. Big companies could somehow take cushion on several weeks of losses and impairment of operations. But many smaller e-companies could be threatened to fold businesses altogether. If the lockdown spelled disaster in China, could you imagine how worse the situation could be if it happened in the US, in Europe, or in other countries and cities where people and businesses are all heavily reliant on the Internet?

Is an internet lockdown possible in other countries? This could be a subject of debate. In general, most free and democratic nations are ruling out the possibility. But a total blockage of Internet access could still be possible if problems arise and affect infrastructure and physical lines. In other countries, an online lockdown could be caused by disasters and natural calamities.

Thus, it is important that businesses establish good and reliable contingency measures to counter possible setbacks if Internet access is disabled. It could be a difficult situation to get into, but it is always a possibility. While the online media is helpful and is really important, users should learn how to conduct operations continuously even when the Internet runs out.
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How To Break Password In Windows XP?

It is really very frustrating when you forget or lost you Windows XP password. There are many solutions to it. I am describing one, which I have already tested on my computer (Note- All tips and tricks describe in this site is tested by me if anyone has any doubt leave a comment for resolution). Only a Windows XP CD is required to complete this step. You can break password by following this article:

Put your Windows XP CD in you computer CD/DVD drive and restart your computer.
Keep your eye on the screen for Press any key to boot from CD" press any key.
Press Enter to set up Windows now when you get to the Welcome to the setup screen.
Press F8 to accept Licensing Agreement.
The next screen in setup gives you the option to repair.
Let the repair run. Setup will now check your disk and copy some files.
Shortly after file copying you will require reboot which will happen automatically.
During reboot do not press any key. Setup will resume automatically with standard screen and you will see installing windows is highlighted.
Keep your eye on the lower left hand of the screen, when you see the installing devices progress bar, press shift+F10. Command prompt will open giving you the potential for access to system.
At the prompt type NUSRMGR.CPL press enter. You will see user account window in front of you. Now simply pick up the account you want to change and remove or change your password, as you prefer. If you want to log on without typing the new password you can type control userpassword2 and choose to log on. After you made your changes, close the windows and exit from command prompt. (Have your product key ready)

Let the repair to complete, now you can access your computer with a new password or a blank one as you have selected in the previous step. Your programs and personalized settings will remain intact.

If you don't want to go with the above method there is simple one, just head over to purchase a Password Removal Program (works with windows NT, 2000, XP, 2003 server and vista).

This method is easier/faster and works great! Just download the software, burn it to a CD, insert the CD to the computer and all the current password will be removed so you can get back in and back to work.
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Protect Computer From Virus

Lots of article has been written for the removal of virus from computers. Some times we don't know how our computer get infected from virus, Maybe from surfing porn's or downloading some software, already infected or opening mail attachments or maybe while plugging in a flash drive and opening it without scanning with an antivirus. Topic of big debate is which antivirus is 100% perfect. I don't want to go in this debate all are good, but when we get infected and these antivirus are not capable of cleaning them, then what will I say you know better. But there is a point, updates for latest virus demands some time and in meanwhile these virus completes their work. These virus are very naughty, not all, some get cleaned very easily, but new generation of virus will shake you from top to bottom if your computer get infected.

Suppose we have antivirus installed on our computer, besides of that we get infected, speed of the computer dies, false warning of spywares from the right corner of the task bar, illegal shutdown and many more symptoms like these. You search on internet contact your friends for removal, maybe someone advises you for another antivirus and you will keep slapping your head when this advised antivirus does not install. You may get this message "Your computer seems to be infected first clean all the infections then proceed with the installation".

Now what you will do, are you thinking of reformatting, I personally do not think reformatting or re installation is the solution of every problem, maybe you think otherwise, anyway, there is a solution for this. Many antivirus helps you in creating a boot disk with updated virus definitions, but some of us never create such disk, which is so helpful. These disks can clean your computer if your antivirus is disabled due to infection or not working properly. If you don't have one never mind see the download section in left you will an Emergency disc download it, and burn it with Nero. It is a Nero image file updated up to 6th of November. I generally create these disks after every 15 days you will find new one around 20 of this month and so on. So download it and burn it on a blank disc. Put this disk in your computer's CD/DVD drive and simply restart your computer (Please remember to set your bios to boot from CD and be sure CD as first boot device).

Now sit back and watch your computer will restart and will proceed like as booting normally, but before welcome screen it will halt for some time then starts the scanning and removal process. It generally takes 5 to 10 minutes to complete, but if you have a lot of data on hard disk, then it may take more time. The only drawback of this disc is it does not ask to repair or anything like that if repairable it repairs, otherwise deletes the infected file. After the completion of this step, your computer will restart again and your will get a fresh non-infected computer.
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Prepare Your Own Windows XP Disc.

Every time you install or reinstall Windows XP, you have to install the drivers and applications later. This is against our time saving concept, with the installation of Windows XP, some components also get installed that you never use on your computer. Now when you install Windows XP, after some initial screens, I mean the agreement and the partition screens, there is no user intervention except in the second stage, where user is required for providing input of name, Product Key and others. Now if we automate this step and integrate drivers and some basic software applications to the installation disc, so that you may have a short nap. That is not a bad idea. For this we will use a tool nLite. It is a tool for windows components removal and pre-installation windows setup. After removal, you can make bootable image ready for burning on the disc. You can use nLite on different Windows operating system (2000, XP and 2003 server) you can integrate service packs, updates and remove unwanted components. You can create a fully un-attended setup (including ISO) integrate the drivers so that they will automatically install and you can enable many tweaks I will say hundreds of them in the tool as well as you can configure the services. This tool requires Dot Net Framework to operate, see the download section in the right you will find Net Framework as well as nLite there download it. Now you require a Windows XP disc with or without service pack. Copy all its contents on your hard disk. Install Net Framework and then install nLite.

When you will launch nLite for the first time you will find this screen just select your language and    click next.

Now this is the screen where you will be asked for the source files. These are the files you had already copied from the XP disc. Click browse the show the path and remember that folder must contain the entire i386 folder and the setup files. Once you show the exact path of that folder you will find language, Version path, total size and service pack if found. Click next.

Now here in this screen you can modify what you want. We will do all steps except service pack because it is already included.

Now in this screen we can include the hot fixes and add-ons. On the top you can see Ryan VM Update Pack. This is a well-known update pack which contains all the update of Windows XP since SP2. See Net Framework and CCleaner also there. These all will be installed without user intervention. Click on advance and enable remove catalog files. This will speed up your setup.

This screen allows you to integrate drivers of your computer so that there is no need to install them manually later. Click on insert and select the inf file for the driver you want to install.

This screen allows you to pick features you are going to use on your computer. Please ensure that you don't accidentally remove a feature that you will need later.

Here in this screen you can remove what you want to remove. Kindly check this Document before removing anything. The highlighted text in red, nLite recommends to keep. The check boxes components will be removed. Only uncheck boxes components will be installed.

This screen enables you to make this disc fully unattended. Pick up your computer type. Insert your Product Key. Turn system restore on/off. Insert your Administrator name and password if required. Select Keyboard layout and your language option. Select your network type. Check all the tabs and insert suitably.

This screen enables you to add or remove windows components. If you do not want to take any chances uncheck the advance check box. When you are done picking your settings, click next. You will get a message, click yes for compiling the new install for you. It will take several minutes to complete.

Name your ISO any name you want. Select the destination where you want to put this ISO and it will go through the process.

When creation of ISO is completed you will get this screen. Click finish. Now check your ISO on a virtual machine first.

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