K2Know - IT || EP.63 Disabling Avira Antivir's Pop-up Advertisements

Disabling Avira Antivir's Pop-up Advertisements

If you have a free antivirus installed on your PC, there's a pretty good chance that it's either AVG or Avira -- both great options for the average person who needs a little protection. The inherent pitfall of many free applications is that they're packaged with nagware. For most people, closing or otherwise avoiding the occasional pop-up ad and other nuisance is fair trade for not having to dole out their hard earned dollars -- that said, I believe few would object to disabling nagware in a matter of a few clicks. We've already seen how to accomplish this with AVG 8.5 and AVG 9.0, and today we're going to have a crack at Avira.
If you read our article on AVG, you might recall how simple it was: rename (or delete) a few key files, and viola. Similarly, we need remove access to a file as a means of disabling the Avira Antivir's advertisements, and that file is avnotify.exe.
The underlying concept is the same: we're going to cripple avnotify.exe, but in this case renaming it won't put it out of commission. When Avira runs a standard virus signature update, avnotify.exe is automatically replaced if it's missing. Unfortunately, we'll have to jump through a few extra hoops this time around. We've broken things down for several major versions of Windows:
Windows XP Home

1. Boot into Safe Mode (tap F8 after powering on your PC for a menu).
2. Log into an account with administrator privileges.
3. Navigate to your Avira program folder.
4. Right click on the file avnotify.exe and select Properties.
5. Click Edit > Traverse Folder/Execute File > Deny > OK.
6. Reboot and enjoy.

Windows XP Professional

1. Click Start, and then Run.
2. Enter gpedit.msc.
3. Navigate through User Configuration > Administrative Templates > System.
4. Double click "Don't run specified Windows applications".
5. Enable it and click show.
6. Add "avnotify.exe" and click OK.

Windows Vista & Windows 7

1. Go to the Avira program folder.
2. Right click avnotify.exe and select Properties.
3. Under the Security tab, select SYSTEM and click edit.
4. Tick Read & Execute in the Deny column, and click OK.

The above methods should leave you with a nag-free Avira install, at least until an update comes along and wipes out how the ad is currently being called out. You could avoid this mess altogether of course, and install Microsoft's newly released Security Essentials, which is free and won't bug you with any nag screens -- or better yet, run no antivirus at all (not a joke, just a way of life).
If you have another preferred method of disabling Avira's popups, or even if you'd just like us to look into another product's nagware, share your thoughts with us in the comments.

Did you know?

Avira is a German based software company. Its antivirus application has been around since 1988, initially called "H+BEDV Datentechnik GmbH" and later renamed to Antivir for commercial and aesthetic purposes. Avira sells a commercial version of the product. Its AV engine has been licensed to other renowned software vendors like Ashampoo, Ad-Aware and Webroot.

Header antivirus logo by Chris Dewey.


Credit from: http://www.techspot.com/guides/213-remove-avira-antivir-popup-ad/

 

K2Know - IT || EP.62 Turn Off your Display Using a Windows Shortcut and More

Turn Off your Display Using a Windows Shortcut and More

Although it may seem unnecessary at first thought, there is some practicality in having a software shortcut to instantly turn off your monitor. It could prove very useful with notebook computers, if yours doesn't have a keyboard shortcut for shutting down the screen. It could also be convenient in the presence of multiple monitors, your power button might be broken, or you may indeed just be that lazy. Whatever the case may be, setting up a Windows shortcut to turn off your display(s) couldn't be any easier with the help of a small utility called Wizmo, that can be downloaded here.
The downloaded file will be a small standalone executable. You'll want to move this file somewhere convenient for permanent keeping. I'm tossing mine in a new program folder (C:\Program Files\Wizmo).
Upon running the program, you'll notice that it doesn't present you with any options or functionality, and that's because this program is command based. To make stuff happen, you'll need to create a shortcut and add a recognizable command, something that you will learn can play to your advantage given the myriad of options available in Wizmo.
Once you have the executable (wizmo.exe) stored somewhere, right click the file and choose Create shortcut, which should give you a new file named "wizmo.exe - Shortcut".
Right click the new shortcut file, and choose Properties. Under the Shortcut tab, you should see a text box labeled Target. After the full filename path, enter a single space and the desired command. The command to turn off your monitor is -monoff.
Click OK and test it out by double clicking the shortcut. At this point your monitor should have gone blank. You can click your mouse button or perform some other action to bring back the display.
Assuming it works, it's up to you where you can to place this shortcut and how you want to customize it. For example, I renamed my shortcut to "Monitor Off" and placed it on my taskbar, then changed the icon to something more fitting.
To change the icon: Right click > Properties > Shortcut tab > Change icon > Browse > C:\Windows\system32\imageres.dll > Open > Select icon > OK.
But the power of Wizmo doesn't stop there. Here we have illustrated a single one of its different potential uses. Using similar commands Wizmo can also put your PC in standby, hibernation, lock your workstation, reboot, open/close your CD drive's tray, set your system's audio level, and even combine the different commands.
For example: wizmo volume=0 monoff volume=40
That chain of commands will mute your computer and shut down the monitor(s), then upon your return increase the volume level to 40%.
For a full up to date list of commands head over to the utility's site.

 

Credit from: http://www.techspot.com/guides/215-turn-display-off-using-software-shortcut/

 

K2Know - IT || EP.61 Install Over 50 Freeware Apps Hands-Free with Ninite

Install Over 50 Freeware Apps Hands-Free with Ninite

If you’ve reinstalled an operating system in recent times, you surely realize how tedious the whole process can be. We have covered some aspects of this in the past, looking to simplify your experience with a list of top programs to grab after a fresh OS installation, as well as a comprehensive backup checklist. And while that should give you a neat jumpstart, we haven't entirely touched on how time-consuming it can be to actually download and then install every new app.
Not everyone has a speedy broadband Internet connection or a well-equipped PC, and tracking down a dozen or more pieces of software along with manually installing each one could easily burn an entire afternoon -- not counting the time it takes to get your new operating system up and running. To further compound that situation, what if you are doing it on more than one computer?
A nifty new service called Ninite tries to circumvent much of this pesky process by allowing you to select, download, and automatically install over 50 popular freeware applications from a single location. The programs span Web browsers, instant messengers, media players, image editors, office and document applications, anti-viruses, runtimes, developer tools, file sharing apps, compression software, various system utilities and more. It's not useless stuff either, we have featured many of those programs as our download of the week.
Ninite is compatible with Windows XP, Vista and 7 -- both 32 and 64-bit versions. To use the service, simply scroll through and select any program you're interested in, then click on Get Installer at the bottom of the page and save the executable.
If you're running Vista or Windows 7, right click on the saved EXE and choose Run as administrator. At this point, the executable should take off, and automatically grind out each program installation with default settings and without requiring any additional attention.
The installer provided by Ninite bypasses license agreements, though you are still obligated to comply with them. It also automatically excludes any browser toolbars and other junk that many freeware apps are often packaged with. In fact, Ninite's software isn't even installed in the process.
The service has been open to the public since late last month, and its catalog of software is growing by the day. Ninite makes it ridiculously easy for users to suggest an application at the bottom of their home page, so if your favorite freeware program isn't listed, feel free to notify them.
Have other time-saving tips for installing an operating system or subsequent software? We would love to hear about it in the comments.

 

Credit from: http://www.techspot.com/guides/218-install-freeware-apps-hands-free/

 

K2Know - IT || EP.60 Unearth Region-Specific Windows 7 Themes

Unearth Region-Specific Windows 7 Themes

Microsoft stepped up its game in more ways than one with the advent of Windows 7. The graphical user interface looks and functions better than in previous releases and is easy to customize. Without digging deep, even inexperienced users coming from Windows XP and Vista can see that Microsoft attempted to bring a degree of style to its latest operating system. Windows 7 ships with a number unique themes and desktop backgrounds, ranging from the traditional scenic landscapes to creepy character art. In all, though, there are only about 13 accessible themes, which can't really cover the broad spectrum of individual taste. While it's a breeze to tweak themes to something you like, having more stock configurations to choose from certainly wouldn't hurt, right?
As you may have noticed, at least one of the bundled themes in your Windows 7 installation is region-specific. This is determined during the installation or setup process when you select your location, which means that there are many more themes lurking on your hard drive for several large countries such as Russia, Japan, Canada, Australia, France, Brazil, Poland, Netherlands, Taiwan, and so on.
Finding and using these hidden theme packs is simple. Begin by opening a Windows Explorer window. Then enter windows\winsxs in the directory bar.
When you arrive at the specified path, search for *.theme (it'll probably take a few moments, be patient). Search results should include all of the stock themes available to you in the Personalization settings screen, along with themes for another 18 countries.
The country names will be abbreviated, but they are easy enough to decipher. Double click on a theme you're interested in and it will be instantly applied and saved under "My Themes" for quick access.
It is worth noting that all of the international themes can be downloaded via Microsoft's Personalization Gallery, along with various sponsored themes that include brands like soft drink companies, car manufacturers, and video games.
If you have your own favorite hole in the wall for Windows 7 themes or other customization tips, be sure to share them in the comments.

Did you know?

Themes bring back to memory a Windows 95 add-on pack offered by Microsoft called Plus!. Back in the day, the software giant charged $35 for the software companion that was "designed to fully exploit the power of 486 and Pentium class PC's." Besides some cool themes, the pack also included a 3D Pinball game and desktop enhancements like Full Window Drag, Font Smoothing, and Wallpaper Stretching. Do you recall running a Windows 95 PC with Plus!?


Credit from: http://www.techspot.com/guides/220-unlock-hidden-windows-7-themes/

K2Know - IT || EP.59 How to Change the Logon Screen on Windows 7

How to Change the Logon Screen on Windows 7

Be it screensavers, desktop wallpapers or font type and sizes, visual customization at the OS level is usually important to all kinds of users. Recognizing this, Microsoft has made it easier than ever to apply and adjust individual themes with Windows 7. We looked at this last week showing you how to find hidden themes buried in your hard drive as well as sponsored ones available through Microsoft's online Personalization Gallery.
This time around, we are going to show you how to customize the Windows 7 login screen. There are various methods to accomplish this, with and without third-party software. I understand many people might not want to rely on a third-party application, while others would appreciate a quicker, safer route. First up is the more hands-on approach, and then the utility.

Hands-on approach

This method will require you to modify the registry, and if that puts a knot in your stomach, you should move on to the next section.
Step 1: Open the Windows Start menu and enter regedit into the search bar.

Step 2: Right click on HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE and select Find.

Step 3: Search for OEMBackground, which should be in HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE/SOFTWARE/Microsoft/Windows/CurrentVersion/Authentication/LogonUI/Background. If the key does not exist, add a new DWORD value with the name OEMBackground.

Step 4: Double click on the entry OEMBackground, and change the value from 0 to 1.
Step 5: Open Windows Explorer and go to the following path: %windir%system32oobe.
Step 6: Create a new folder named info, and open it.
Step 7: Create a new folder within info named backgrounds.
Step 8: Rename your desired wallpaper as backgroundDefault.jpg and place it inside the folder backgrounds (images must be less than 245KB in size).
That should do the trick, now just lock your PC, log off or reboot and enjoy.

Third-party software

If you are uncomfortable with manually tinkering with the registry -- or simply have better things to be doing with your time -- we understand. Various third-party applications can change Windows 7's default logon wallpaper, but our personal favorite is Tweak.com's Logon Changer.
The software is ridiculously easy to use, doesn't require installation, and it even has built-in tools to automatically resize and recompress your images while leaving the original file untouched. The Logon Changer also lets you quickly change your logon wallpaper back to the Windows 7 default.
Start by downloading the app here, and then unzip the executable. Run the program and it should present you with a preview of your logon screen along with a few self-explanatory options: "Change Logon Screen" lets you browse to a new image, "Test" will bring up your logon screen, "Revert to Default Logon Screen" reapplies Windows 7's original wallpaper.
Also read: Computer Tips & Tricks Everyone Should Know
 

Credit from: http://www.techspot.com/guides/224-change-logon-screen-windows7/

 

K2Know - IT || EP.58 How to Bring a Lost Window Back to your Desktop

How to Bring a Lost Window Back to your Desktop

At one point or another, you're bound to run into this pesky issue: you can see an application open in the taskbar, but can't see the window on your desktop. A number of things can cause this, such as disconnecting your laptop from a secondary display before dragging the windows back to the primary desktop. It can also occur when you open a program that alters your resolution, among a few others. Restarting your PC may not be viable, because the inaccessible program window could contain unsaved data -- not to mention that it's never fun to reboot without a good reason. There are a couple of tricks to get your stray window back on screen:

Get it back on Windows 7

Bring the troubled window to focus by clicking on it in the taskbar (or Alt+Tab). Now you can simply hold the Windows key on your keyboard and tap the arrow keys. With any luck, your missing window will snap back into view.
If that doesn't work, you can use another keyboard trick...
Select the application window by clicking on it in the taskbar, then tap Alt + Space, which will open a menu on the missing window. Obviously you won't be able to see the menu, but can still interact with it. Tap "M" on your keyboard to select "Move" on the menu, and then use the keyboard arrow keys to reposition the window back to your desktop.
If all else fails, right-click on your taskbar and select "Cascade windows".

For Windows Vista and earlier

Right-click on the program in your taskbar and choose "Move". Now use the arrow keys on your keyboard to move the window. You can also right-click on your taskbar and choose "Cascade windows", which will automatically stack your windows in an overlapping pile.
Have another method of bringing a lost window back into view? Share it in the comments.

 

Credit from: http://www.techspot.com/guides/226-bring-lost-window-back-desktop/

 

 

K2Know - IT || EP.57 Prevent Windows Update From Automatically Restarting Your PC

Prevent Windows Update From Automatically Restarting Your PC

Windows Update's automatic reboot can be one of the most annoying "features" in Microsoft operating systems. While it's a bit less pushy with Windows Vista and 7, allowing users to postpone the restart for up to four hours, you may not be at the computer to intercept the first or subsequent notifications.
In many cases this isn't a major deal. However, it can be frustrating if you step away from a work session and come back to a freshly rebooted system. You might also be downloading a large file or letting a lengthy operation run while away from your PC, expecting it to be finished upon return.
Fortunately there are various workarounds available. Today we will mention a few that have been tested to work in XP, Vista and Windows 7 systems.

Temporary Workarounds

The methods below will disable the nagging reminders after Windows Update runs by stopping the associated service. They are only temporary solutions because Windows will automatically start the service again when you reboot, which means you might be faced with the same problem the next time Windows updates are installed. In other words, this is your one-time off solution.
Windows XP: Open Start > Run and enter the following command: net stop "automatic updates" OR sc stop wuauserv. You can also suspend the process with PsSuspend and the command pssuspend wuauclt.
Windows Vista/7: Open Start and search for cmd. Right click on the found program and click Run as administrator. Enter the command net stop "windows update" and you're good to go. Likewise, you can suspend the process with PsSuspend and the command pssuspend wuauclt.

Permanent Fix

Unfortunately most of the everlasting system tweaks out there are unavailable to "Home" users -- that includes even Home Premium versions as these lack the group policy editor and a few other "advanced" Windows features. However, the third party application Shutdown Guard works well, and even prevents other applications from rebooting your PC.
For users of Professional, Ultimate and other upper-tier versions of Windows, you can adjust a few things in your group policy settings or system registry:
Windows XP: Start > Run > enter gpedit.msc. Navigate to Local Computer Policy > Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update. Double click "No auto-restart for scheduled Automatic Updates installation," then choose Enabled and click OK.
Windows Vista/7: Start > search for gpedit.msc. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update and enable "No auto-restart for scheduled Automatic Updates installations".
All non-Home users can apply the same policy change by adding a new key to the registry. Go to Start > Run/Search for regedit. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE SOFTWARE Policies Microsoft Windows WindowsUpdate AU. Create a new 32-bit DWORD value named NoAutoRebootWithLoggedOnUsers and give it a value of 1. You can also download and double click on this registry key to add the key automatically.

Did you know?

Keeping your operating system up to date is vital to having a malware-free computer. But even with Windows fully patched, any of your installed applications can be a potential point of entry for attackers should you forget to grab the latest version available. Utilities such as Secunia's PSI can provide an extra layer of protection by scanning your computer for installed software, and then warning you of potentially unsafe applications that have available updates.

 

Credit from: http://www.techspot.com/guides/230-prevent-automatic-windows-update-restarts/