Antivirus or Antispyware Software

Do you really need to purchase antivirus or antispyware software? I prefer a third party firewall software installed on a computer with Windows 7 running as a standard user. You won't get all the security problems related to running as an administrator.

But, if you're a home user and concerned about security, you can install those reputable free versions of antivirus or antispyware software.

Adobe Flash Player

Do you really need Adobe flash player? My frequently visited websites listed below do not require it.

1. Engadget
2. Crave
3. PC World
   
4. Hot Hardware
5. Liliputing

I don't miss the flash videos or advertisements and I feel more secure without worrying about patching it for security vulnerabilities.

Budget 15.6" Notebook

You can buy a 15.6" Compaq Presario CQ61-314TU notebook for the price of a netbook or cheaper at $491 in Australia.

Specifications

1. Intel Celeron Dual Core T3000 1.8GHz 800MHz FSB 1MB L2 CPU
   
2. 15.6" LCD 1366 x 768
3. Intel GMA 4500MHD
   
4. 2GB RAM
   
5. 250GB 5400rpm HDD
6. 802.11b/g WLAN
   
7. Webcam
8. Lightscribe 8x Super Multi DVD+/-RW DL
9. Windows 7 Home Premium
10. 1 year warranty
    

Drivers

1. Windows 7 (32-bit)
   
2. Windows 7 (64-bit)

Java Runtime Environment (JRE) Version 6 Update 17

The latest version fixed several security vulnerabilities :

269869 : Command Execution Vulnerability in the Java Runtime Environment Deployment Toolkit May be Leveraged to Execute Arbitrary Code

269870 : Security Vulnerability in the Java Web Start Installer May be Leveraged to Allow Untrusted Java Web Start Application to Run As Trusted Application

270474 : Buffer and Integer Overflow Vulnerabilities in the Java Runtime Environment With Processing Audio and Image Files May Allow Privileges to be Escalated

270475 : A Security Vulnerability in the Java Runtime Environment With Verifying HMAC Digests may Allow Authentication to be Bypassed

270476 : Two Security Vulnerabilities in the Java Runtime Environment With Decoding DER Encoded Data and Parsing HTTP Headers may Result in a Denial of Service (DoS)

CCleaner Portable 2.27.1070

The changes are as follows :

- Added support to Wipe MFT Free Space.
- Added cleaning for Windows Explorer breadcrumb bar.
- Added cleaning for Opera beta versions.
- Added option to turn off CCleaner jumplist tasks on Windows 7.
- Added menu option to Registry Cleaner to add key to exclude list.
- Improved support for SeaMonkey 2.0.
- Improved Windows 7 Taskbar progress accuracy.
- Improved minimize to system tray functionality across all platforms.
- Improved Opera cleaning by including opcache and temporary_downloads folder.
- Improved performance of Compact database routines.
- Improved Wipe Free Space code to avoid locks.
- Improved security when deleting files.
- Minor GUI and interface improvements.
- Minor bug fixes.

Australian APC Magazine December 2009

Features

1. Windows 7
2. Hyper Drives

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. 1-abc.net Personal Addresses
   

Mozilla Firefox 3.5.6

The latest release fixed several security issues :

MFSA 2009-71 GeckoActiveXObject exception messages can be used to enumerate installed COM objects

MFSA 2009-70 Privilege escalation via chrome window.opener

MFSA 2009-69 Location bar spoofing vulnerabilities

MFSA 2009-68 NTLM reflection vulnerability

MFSA 2009-67 Integer overflow, crash in libtheora video library

MFSA 2009-66 Memory safety fixes in liboggplay media library

MFSA 2009-65 Crashes with evidence of memory corruption (rv:1.9.1.6/ 1.9.0.16)

Adobe Flash Player 10.0.42.34

Adobe has released a security update to its flash player. This will fix vulnerabilities that could cause the application to crash and could potentially allow an attacker to take control of the affected system.

After update, you can change the default settings using Settings Manager :

1. Global Privacy Settings Panel - Always deny
2. Global Storage Settings Panel - None & Never Ask Again
3. Global Security Settings Panel - Always deny
4. Website Privacy Settings Panel - Always deny
   
5. Website Storage Settings Panel - None & Never Ask Again

Patch Tuesday December 2009

Microsoft has released the following security updates for Windows XP :

Cumulative Security Update for Internet Explorer 6 for Windows XP (KB976325)

Security Update for Windows XP (KB973904)

Security Update for Windows XP (KB974318)

Security Update for Windows XP (KB974392)

Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool - December 2009 (KB890830)

PC Pro February 2010

Features

1. Top 10 techs of 2010
2. How to get a job at Google, Microsoft or Apple

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. Agnitum Outpost Antivirus Pro 6.7 (180-day licence)
   
2. Agnitum Outpost Firewall Pro 6.7 (180-day licence)
3. Ashampoo Slideshow Studio 2010

Budget Netbook

Hasee Q130B HEI10 netbook is selling for RMB1,999 with 3 years warranty in China.

Specifications

1. Intel Atom N270 1.6GHz CPU
   
2. 10.1" 1024 x 600 LCD
   
3. Intel GMA 950
   
4. 1GB DDR2 400/533MHz (1 socket, max 2GB) RAM
   
5. Toshiba 160GB SATA HDD
6. 3 cell Li-Ion battery 2200mAh
   
7. 4-in-1 SD/MMC/MS/MS-Pro card reader
8. Realtek RTL8102E/8103E 10/100Mbps LAN
9. Realtek RTL8191SE 802.11b/g/n wireless
10. Webcam, 3 x USB 2.0, VGA
    

Drivers

1. Realtek RTL8191SE - Windows 2000/XP/Vista/7
2. Realtek RTL8102E/8103E - Windows 2000/XP/Vista/7

Australian PC Authority January 2010

Features

1. 2009 Best & Worst Tech
2. The Hype-Free Buyer's Guide

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. Avira Premium Security Suite 8.2.0.251 (90 days trial)
2. Ashampoo Burning Studio 2010

Using Shinco GM-3512 BEE GPS

You can search using postal code, building or street name. For TTS (Text To Speech) - spoken street names to work, you'll need to change voice to English (TTS). 3D mapping and voice alerts for speed cameras are supported.

In addition, it can play MP3 & WMA (music), MP4 (movie) and view JPEG (photo). You don't need to register to use the maps. The map update is available online and free for 2 years.

Budget GPS Navigation System

Bought Shinco GPS Navigation GM-3512BEE for $189. It has the following specifications:

1. Samsung ARM920T S3C2443 400MHz CPU
2. 64MB RAM
   
3. 1GB internal flash storage
4. Up to 8GB external SD/microSD storage
5. 3.5" 320 x 240 TFT LCD touch screen 65536 colors
6. MTK chipset 32 channel BEE Fix Function (immediate Fix GPS signal)
   
7. Built-in FM transmitter
8. Microsoft Windows CE Version 5.00 (Build 1400)

The accessories included in the box are pouch, car adapter, AC adapter, USB cable, windshield mount and GPS bracket. Both Singapore (SLA MapKing & Malsingmaps) and Malaysia (SLA MapKing, Malsingmaps West & East) maps are bundled.

Computer Shopper January 2010

Features

1. No hiding place
   
2. Say no to spam
3. The rise of the CPU
   

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. TurboCAD Deluxe 12.5
   

PC Pro January 2010

Features

1. File-sharing: the facts
2. Does parental control software work?

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. Ashampoo Burning Studio 2010
2. Serif DrawPlus 7
3. Advanced WindowsCare V2 Professional
   

PC Advisor January 2010

Features

1. Trace your history and friends online
2. Take your work into the cloud
   

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. 1-abc.net File Washer 2.0

Differences Between Atheros & Broadcom Chipsets

Acer Aspire One AOA110 Model ZG5 uses Atheros AR5007EG chipset whereas Acer Aspire One D250 Model KAV60 uses Broadcom 802.11g chipset. I also have Linksys wireless N network adapter WPC300N with Broadcom chipset.

I noticed the following differences:

1. If you turn off the wireless switch on Acer Aspire One AOA110, it will remain turn off even after shutdown or reboot until you turn it on. But, if you turn off the wireless switch on Acer Aspire One D250, it will turn on itself after shutdown or reboot.
   
2. If you boot up Acer Aspire One AOA110 without first turning on your wireless router, the wireless connection will function continuously after getting connected. But, if you boot up Acer Aspire One D250 without first turning on your wireless router, the wireless connection will function intermittently after getting connected until you shutdown or reboot. This behavior is also evident in Linksys WPC300N with Linksys WRT150 router.
   

Thus, I prefer Atheros chipset than Broadcom chipset.

Patch Tuesday November 2009

Microsoft has released the following security updates for Windows XP:

Security Update for Windows XP (KB969947)

Update for Internet Explorer 6 for Windows XP (KB976749)

Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool - November 2009 (KB890830)

Australian PC User December 2009

Features

1. Windows 7 Upgrade Guide
2. Crank Up Your PC

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. PC User Upgrade Advisor 2010
2. Ashampoo Burning Studio 2010
   

Australian PC Authority December 2009

Features

1. 101 Christmas Gift Ideas
2. Greatest Tech U-Turns

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. Eset NOD32 Antivirus 4 (6 month licence)
2. PC Tools File Recover 7.5
   

Australian PC User November 2009

Features

1. Rip & Burn Anything
2. Digital Video Superguide

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. PC User Ripping & Burning Toolbox
   

PC Advisor December 2009

Features

1. Windows 7: Your Complete Guide
2. Can You Trust Free Antivirus Software?

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. Ashampoo Burning Studio 2010
   

Mozilla Firefox 3.5.4

The latest release fixed several security issues:

MFSA 2009-64 Crashes with evidence of memory corruption (rv:1.9.1.4/ 1.9.0.15)

MFSA 2009-63 Upgrade media libraries to fix memory safety bugs

MFSA 2009-62 Download filename spoofing with RTL override

MFSA 2009-61 Cross-origin data theft through document.getSelection()

MFSA 2009-59 Heap buffer overflow in string to number conversion

MFSA 2009-57 Chrome privilege escalation in XPCVariant::VariantDataToJS()

MFSA 2009-56 Heap buffer overflow in GIF color map parser

MFSA 2009-55 Crash in proxy auto-configuration regexp parsing

MFSA 2009-54 Crash with recursive web-worker calls

MFSA 2009-53 Local downloaded file tampering

MFSA 2009-52 Form history vulnerable to stealing

Australian APC Magazine November 2009

Features

1. Windows 7: The Perfect Setup!
2. Ideal Windows 7 Hardware

Computer Shopper December 2009

Features

1. Steering clear of the online sharks
   
2. Virtual computing for free
3. Design your own logo
   

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. Serif Creative Suite 2010
2. BullGuard Spamfilter

PC Pro December 2009

Features

1. 50 ways to work faster
2. Top 10 IT heroes

Patch Tuesday October 2009

Microsoft has released the following security updates for Windows XP:

Cumulative Security Update for ActiveX Killbits for Windows XP (KB973525)

Cumulative Security Update for Internet Explorer 6 for Windows XP (KB974455)

Security Update for Windows XP (KB958869)

Security Update for Windows XP (KB969059)

Security Update for Windows XP (KB971486)

Security Update for Windows XP (KB974112)

Security Update for Windows XP (KB974571)

Security Update for Windows XP (KB975025)

Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool - October 2009 (KB890830)

Differences Between S60 3rd Edition FP1 & FP2 Platform

Platform	S60 3rd Edition FP1	S60 3rd Edition FP2
Contacts	More steps to access in SIM card. Need to copy new contact from phone to SIM card.	Easier to access in SIM card. Can create new contact in SIM card directly.
Wi-Fi	DHCP server is optional since static or dynamic ip address is supported. Does not require SIM card for internet access.	DHCP server is optional since static or dynamic ip address is supported. Does not require SIM card for internet access. Can access internet in flight mode.
Active Standby Screen	Less customisable. Clock shown in selected screens only.	More customisable. Clock shown in selected screens only.
Nokia Map	Support Drive or Walk mode. Can support additional free maps from other countries.	Support Drive or Walk mode. Can support additional free maps from other countries.
E-mail	Can create account in phone memory or micro SD card. Does not require SIM card to connect to POP3 account with Wi-Fi. Does not require to save password for POP3 account. Can delete e-mails from POP3 server.	Can create account in phone memory or micro SD card. Does not require SIM card to connect to POP3 account with Wi-Fi. Does not require to save password for POP3 account. Can delete e-mails from POP3 server.
Browser	Support Flash Lite 2.0. Does not require additional step to press Ok to continue in form field. Yahoo webmail is not supported.	Support Flash Lite 3.0. Does not require additional step to press Ok to continue in form field. Yahoo webmail is supported but file download "st" always appears which is unnecessary

Australian APC Magazine October 2009

Features

1. Core i5 is here
2. Wi-Fi shootout

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. East-tec Eraser 2008
2. 1-abc.net Drive Space Organizer
   

Differences Between Nokia S40 & S60 Platform

After using the non-smartphone Nokia 6260 Slide for a while, I found the following differences between the latest S40 6th Edition and my previous smartphone running Symbian OS 9.2 S60 Release 3.1 (S60 3rd Edition Feature Pack 1).

Platform	S60 3rd Edition FP1	S40 6th Edition
Contacts	More steps to access in SIM card. Need to copy new contact from phone to SIM card.	Easier to access in SIM card. Can create new contact in SIM card directly.
Wi-Fi	DHCP server is optional since static or dynamic ip address is supported. Does not require SIM card for internet access	DHCP server is required since only dynamic ip address is supported. Does not require SIM card for internet access. Cannot access internet in flight mode.
Active Standby Screen	Less customisable. Clock shown in selected screens only.	More customisable to support General indicators, Notifications etc, Clock shown in all screens.
Nokia Map	Support Drive or Walk mode. Can support additional free maps from other countries.	Support Drive mode only. Does not support additional free maps from other countries.
E-mail	Can create account in phone memory or micro SD card. Does not require SIM card to connect to POP3 account with Wi-Fi. Does not require to save password for POP3 account. Can delete e-mails from POP3 server.	Can create account in phone memory only. Requires SIM card to connect to POP3 account with Wi-Fi. Need to save password for POP3 account. Cannot delete e-mails from POP3 server.
Browser	Support Flash Lite 2.0. Does not require additional step to press Ok to continue in form field. Yahoo webmail is not supported.	Support Flash Lite 3.0. Requires additional step to press Ok to continue in form field. Yahoo webmail is supported.

Nokia 6260 Slide

Nokia 6260 slide is a non-smartphone running the latest S40 6th Edition. The screen is excellent with resolution of 320 x 480 not seen on any other similar price Nokia smartphone. So far, this is the only Nokia non-smartphone with built-in GPS and Wi-Fi. Also, it has 5MP, 2560 х 1920 pixels, Carl Zeiss lens, autofocus and flash camera.

• Check IMEI - serial number
  

*#06#

• Check firmware

*#0000#

• Check history - serial number, made date, purchasing date, repaired date & life timer.

*#92702689#

If your phone has not been used before, life timer will show 0000:00. This value cannot be changed with restore all.

• Perform soft reset to restore all original phone settings.
  

Enter *#7780# in the standby mode
Enter 12345 as the default Lock Code

or

Press Menu > Settings > Rest. factory sett. > Restore settings only
Enter 12345 as the default Lock Code

• Perform hard reset (Backup your contacts to SIM or memory card and messages to memory card and remove them first. Programs installed, country, date, time & connection settings, contacts, messages will be deleted)

Press Menu > Settings > Rest. factory sett. > Restore all
Enter 12345 as the default Lock Code

Australian PC Authority November 2009

Features

1. 99 Free Apps for PC, Linux & Mac
2. The PC in 2010 and beyond
   

Smartphone & Non-smartphone

Model	Nokia E63	Nokia 5630 XpressMusic	Nokia 6260 slide
Developer Platform	S60 3rd Edition Feature Pack 1 (Smartphone)	S60 3rd Edition Feature Pack 2 (Smartphone)	S40 6th Edition (Non-smartphone)
OS	Symbian OS v9.2	Symbian OS v9.3	Nokia
Screen	320 x 240 2.36"	240 x 320 2.2"	320 x 480 2.4"
Flash Lite MIDP (Java)	3.0 2.0	3.0 2.1	3.0 2.1
Maximum User Storage/ Free Executable RAM/ NAND Memory/ SDRAM Memory/ Maximum Heap Size/ Maximum JAR Size	110MB/ 71MB/ 256MB/ 128MB/ Unlimited/ Unlimited	60MB/ -/ 256MB/ 128MB/ Unlimited/ Unlimited	200MB/ -/ -/ -/ 4MB/ 2MB
Browser	OSS	OSS	WebKit Open Source

Australian APC Magazine September 2009

Features

1. Transformers
2. Digital Living Network Alliance
   

SingTel AMPed

This is an online music service from SingTel. The following articles compare SingTel AMPed with Nokia Comes With Music and Sony Ericsson PlayNow plus :

1. Hardware Zone
2. Cnet Asia
   

For more details, you can refer to the following :

1. FAQs
2. Register (not secure)
   

Mobile Broadband in Singapore

StarHub is the only telco in Singapore offering on-demand user selectable prepaid mobile broadband with its MaxMobile Prepaid. The other telcos only offer 3 days consecutive prepaid mobile broadband.

You can choose either 2.0Mbps or 7.2Mbps with 1 hour, 1 day, 3 days or 5 days plan.

Activate

1. Install the Broadband on Mobile software after connecting your USB modem
   
2. Send using the prepaid SIM card a free SMS to 6782 eg 2M1D (2.0Mbps speed - 1 Day Plan) or 7M1D (7.2Mbps speed - 1 Day Plan)
   

Check Balance

1. Send using the prepaid SIM card a free SMS with bal to 6782
   

Top Up

1. Purchase Happy Prepaid Top Up Cards in denominations of $6, $18 and $38 at StarHub shops, 7-Eleven or Cheers
   
2. Send using the prepaid SIM card a free SMS with topup (10 digit top up card) (6 digit PIN number) to 6782
   

WinX DVD Ripper Platinum 5.1.1

WinX DVD Ripper Platinum is the advanced version of free WinX DVD Ripper. Both versions support Normal DVD, CSS protected DVD, region 1-6, Sony ArccOS, Commercial DVD on Microsoft Windows 98, NT, 2000, 2003, XP, Vista, Windows 7 platforms.

The paid version supports more output video formats such as AVI, WMV, FLV, MP4, MPEG, iPod, iPhone, Apple TV, PSP, PDA, 3GP, Zune, Music, XviD, DivX, JPG & BMP whereas the free version supports output video formats such as AVI, MPEG, FLV, MOV, MP4, WMV, MP3.

CCleaner Portable 2.24.1010

The changes are as follows:

- Added file search history cleaning for Windows 7.
- Improved Opera 10 cleaning.
- Reduced temp folder cleaning delay to 24 hours.
- Several bugs fixed to better support Windows 7.
- Added winapp2.ini filter support to detailed results view.
- Improved 64-bit support for Registry Cleaner.
- Fixed minor bug in Uninstall Tool.
- Fixed minor bug in System Restore Tool.
- Minor interface bugs fixed.
- Minor display bugs fixed.

Computer Shopper November 2009

Features

1. Windows 7
   
2. Cash in the attic
   

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. Eset Smart Security 4
2. Paragon Hard Disk Manager
   

PC Advisor November 2009

Features

1. Avoid Facebook and Twitter Disasters
2. Rescue Accidentally Deleted Files

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. Ashampoo Cover Studio
2. PC Tools Spyware Doctor with AntiVirus SE
3. Lavasoft Privacy Toolbox
   

Mozilla Firefox 3.5.3

The latest release fixed several security issues:

MFSA 2009-51 Chrome privilege escalation with FeedWriter

MFSA 2009-50 Location bar spoofing via tall line-height Unicode characters

MFSA 2009-49 TreeColumns dangling pointer vulnerability

MFSA 2009-47 Crashes with evidence of memory corruption (rv:1.9.1.3/1.9.0.14)

PC Pro November 2009

Features

1. The crapware con
2. When will you get superfast broadband?

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. GhostSurf Platinum 2009
2. Ashampoo Music Studio 2009
   

Using Samsung Omnia SGH-i900

After testing this mobile phone for a few days, I found the following issues for the latest firmware DZIA5 :

1. Sometimes, the phone will turn itself off automatically in standby mode even when the battery is not empty.
   
2. The first letter in a sentence is not capitalized when you create a text message even though the setting under keyboard input is correct.
   
3. Each time you change from default dynamic to static ip address or vice versa, the Wi-Fi setting in Wireless Manager will disappear until you restart the phone.
   
4. The default setting for USB to PC in Start > Settings > Connections is checked to "Enable advanced network functionality" will revert back to checked even if you unchecked it.
5. The default setting for USB Connection Mode is ActiveSync will revert back to ActiveSync even if you choose Mass storage.
   

Samsung Omnia SGH-i900

Bought Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional Samsung Omnia SGH-i900 PDA mobile phone. It has 5MP, 2592х1944 pixels, autofocus and LED flash camera. There is also a built-in GPS. You need to register via SMS, internet with phone or manual with another PC to activate the free Agis NAVFone PPC. The technical specifications are better than LG KS20. The latest firmware DZIA5 can be downloaded.

Manuals

1. Quick Guide
2. User Manual

Hard Reset

1. Hold Power button to turn off phone
2. Hold Call, Cancel & Power button for about 5 seconds
3. Click on the Call button to format or Cancel button to abort

or

1. Click Start > Settings > System > Hard Reset > Memory > Clear Memory
   

Hard reset does not reset internal 8GB storage. Click Start > Settings > System > Hard Reset > Memory > My Storage > Reset

Hard reset does not format external microSD storage card. Click Start > Settings > System > Hard Reset > Storage Card > Format

Agis NAVFone GPS Settings

1. Go to Start > Settings > System > GPS (or External GPS) > Program > Set to Com 3
2. Go to Start > Settings > System > GPS (or External GPS) > Hardware > Set to Com 9, 9600
3. Start NAVFone PPC. When connecting to GPS, set User Define > Com 3, Baud Rate: 9600

Dial Codes

1. Diagnostics - *#0*#
2. IMEI - *#06#
3. Vibration/Back Light/Alert LED test - *#0842#
4. Sound test - *#0673#
5. Battery - *#0228#
6. FTA SW Version - *#1111#
7. SW Version - *#1234#
8. Hard reset *2767*3855#

Configure Opera

1. Type “opera:config” in the URL
2. Under Disk Cache, select Empty on Exit
3. Under User Prefs, deselect Enable Referrer
   

Patch Tuesday September 2009

Microsoft has released the following security updates for Windows XP:

Security Update for Windows XP (KB956844)

Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool - September 2009 (KB890830)

Mobile Broadband Technology

Mobile Broadband	Terminology	Downlink Speed	Uplink Speed
2G	GSM Global System for Mobile communications	-	-
2.5G	GPRS General Packet Radio Service	80kbps	40kbps
3G	UMTS Universal Mobile Telecommunications System	2Mbps	384kbps
3.5G	HSPA High Speed Packet Access HSUPA High Speed Uplink Packet Access HSDPA High Speed Downlink Packet Access	7.2Mbps 7.2Mbps 3.6Mbps	1.9Mbps 5.76Mbps 384kbps
3.75G	HSPA+ Evolved High Speed Packet Access	21Mbps	5.76Mbps
4G	LTE Long Term Evolution	100Mbps	50Mbps

3.5G/3G Wireless Router

Model	PROLiNK 3.5G PWH2001	Aztech HW550-3G	EnGenius 3G ESR6650
Speed	54Mbps	300Mbps	150Mbps
LAN ports	1	4	2
Wireless MAC filtering	Yes	No	Yes
Firmware available online	Yes	Yes	No
Price	$69	$79	$89 with free EUB-9703 wireless N 150Mbps USB adapter
Warranty	1 year	2 years	2 years

Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2010

You can use the serial code from the DVD of PC Advisor September 2009 to get 6-month licence of Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2010.

It can detect all Eicar anti-malware files automatically during download for http except eicar.com.txt, eicar_com.zip and eicarcom2.zip for https. But, it passed all Spycar tests.

Australian PC User October 2009

Features

1. Get connected
2. 50 hot new tips

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. Ashampoo UnInstaller 3
   

Australian PC Authority October 2009

Features

1. Your ultimate home entertainment box
2. 64-bit Windows : Should you switch?

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. Paragon Hard Disk Manager 9.5 Special Edition
2. Ashampoo Music Studio 2009
3. Magix Music Maker Silver 15.0.1.9
   

CCleaner Portable 2.23.993

The changes are as follows:

- Added Taskbar Jump List cleaning for Windows 7.
- Added history cleaning support for Opera 10.
- Added icons to Cookie selection to show browser.
- Improved scrolling in new results window.
- Improved Avira Anti-virus cleaning.
- Improved multiselect in listviews.
- Improved 64-bit support when including/excluding files.
- Improved 64-bit issue detection in Registry screen.
- Updated internal icons.
- Added language support for Armenian.
- Fixed language bugs with new results window.
- Fixed bug in Recycle Bin cleaning.
- Fixed minor bug with help files in Registry Cleaner.
- Fixed bug when deleting an application in Uninstall Tool.
- Fixed bug when enabling/disabling in Startup Tool.
- Minor GUI improvements.

Java Runtime Environment (JRE) Version 6 Update 15

The latest version fixed several security vulnerabilities:

263408 : A Security Vulnerability in the Java Runtime Environment Audio System may Allow System Properties to be Accessed

263409 : Security Vulnerabilities With the Proxy Mechanism Implementation in the Java Runtime Environment (JRE) may Lead to Escalation of Privileges

263428 : Integer Overflow Vulnerability in the Java Runtime Environment When Parsing JPEG Images

263429 : A Security Vulnerability With Verifying HMAC-based XML Digital Signatures in the XML Digital Signature Implementation Included With the Java Runtime Environment (JRE) may Allow Authentication to be Bypassed

263488 : Integer Overflow Vulnerability in the Java Runtime Environment (JRE) "Unpack200" JAR Unpacking Utility May Lead to Escalation of Privileges

263489 : A Security Vulnerability in the Java Runtime Environment (JRE) With Parsing XML Data May Allow a Remote Client to Create a Denial of Service (DoS) Condition

264648 : Security Vulnerability in the Active Template Library in Various Releases of Microsoft Visual Studio Used by the Java Web Start ActiveX Control May Be Leveraged to Execute Arbitrary Code

PC Pro October 2009

Features

1. PC 2010 and beyond
2. Windows 7: everything you need to know
   

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. Paragon Hard Disk Manager 9.5
   

Computer Shopper October 2009

Features

1. Upgrade your laptop
2. 10 ways to connect to the internet

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. O&O UnErase
   

Patch Tuesday August 2009

Microsoft has released the following security updates for Windows XP:

Security Update for Windows XP (KB956744)

Security Update for Windows XP (KB960859)

Security Update for Windows XP (KB971657)

Security Update for Windows XP (KB973507)

Security Update for Windows XP (KB973815)

Security Update for Windows XP (KB973869)

Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool - August 2009 (KB890830)

Problems with Blogger

Ever since after the Taiwan typhoon which caused the underseas internet cable damage, I'm unable to see the toolbar when posting. Upon checking online, I'm not the only person having this issue. Pressing Ctrl-F5 will bring back the toolbar but when you try to add image, it won't appear in my post.

After investigation, I found the problem lies with the DNS servers of my ISP. Since they can't resolve the problem, I decided to switch to openDNS. You can use the following DNS server addresses:

1. Primary/Preferred DNS server : 208.67.222.222
2. Secondary/Alternate DNS server : 208.67.220.220

If you're using a 3G USB modem to connect to Internet, you can't change your DNS server addresses since they're assigned automatically. The solution is to use a 3G wireless router. You can either assign the DNS server addresses in the router configuration or in the network configuration of your PC.

PC Advisor October 2009

Features

1. Recharge Your PC
2. Is Online Storage Really Safe?
3. Get the Best of Windows 7 Now

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. BitDefender Total Security 2010 (3-month licence)
2. Ashampoo UnInstaller 3.0
   

Australian PC User September 2009

Features

1. Windows 7 - Your complete kickstart guide
2. Bonus NetGuide section

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. PC User Virtual Machine Shop 2 SE
2. Ashampoo Burning Studio 2009
   

Australian PC Authority September 2009

Features

1. Windows 7
2. All-In-One PCs

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. Genie Backup Manager Home 7.0
2. Ashampoo Presentations 2008
3. H & H Software Virtual CD 8.0.0.6

Mozilla Firefox 3.5.2

The latest release fixed several security issues:

MFSA 2009-46 Chrome privilege escalation due to incorrectly cached wrapper

MFSA 2009-45 Crashes with evidence of memory corruption (rv:1.9.1.2/1.9.0.13)

MFSA 2009-44 Location bar and SSL indicator spoofing via window.open() on invalid URL

MFSA 2009-38 Data corruption with SOCKS5 reply containing DNS name longer than 15 characters

CCleaner Portable 2.22.968

The latest release has the following changes:

- Redesign of Cleaner results panel.
- Added support for Opera 10 Beta.
- Added support for Safari 4.0.
- Added search to Uninstall tool.
- Added search to Cookies screen.
- Improved User assist cleaning in Windows 7.
- Fixed bug in OpenOffice cleaning.
- Fixed IE8 SuggestedSites.dat cleaning support.
- Fixed UI bugs.

Wireless USB Adapter

Currently, the price of wireless N 150Mbps USB adapter is cheaper than wireless G 54Mbps USB adapter.

Model	EnGenius EUB-9703	PROLiNK WN2000
Chipset	Ralink RT3070	Ralink RT2870
Wi-Fi certified	Chipset WPA2	No
Driver	Windows XP 32/64-bit Vista 32/64-bit Mac OS X Windows 7	Windows XP 32-bit Windows Vista 32-bit Mac OS Linux Windows 7
Antenna	1T1R	1T1R
Price	$19.80	$29
Warranty	3 years	1 year

Adobe Flash Player 10.0.32.18

Adobe has released a security update to its flash player. This will fix vulnerabilities that could cause the application to crash and could potentially allow an attacker to take control of the affected system.

After update, you can change the default settings using Settings Manager :

1. Global Privacy Settings Panel - Always deny
2. Global Storage Settings Panel - None & Never Ask Again
3. Global Security Settings Panel - Always deny
4. Website Privacy Settings Panel - Always deny
   
5. Website Storage Settings Panel - None & Never Ask Again
   

Aztech 3G Mobile Broadband Wireless Router

Aztech has launched its 3G mobile broadband wireless router HW550-3G at a very affordable price of $99 with 2 years warranty. This beats the pricings of other 3G wireless routers.

In addition, it is a 4 port wireless N (300Mbps) router with print and storage servers function. Even though it supports WPA2, it is not Wi-Fi certified. I've tested it working with Huawei E169 and E220 USB modems. You can even use a USB hub to connect a printer and 3G modem together.

You can change password, upgrade firmware and it has the important features and good to have features. But, MAC address filtering is only partially configurable with the latest firmware 201.106.1-032.

Hakin9 July - August 2009

Features

1. Introduction to computer forensics
2. Introduction to computer cryptography

Cover CD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. Lavasoft Registry Tuner (90-days trial)
   

Australian PC User August 2009

Features

1. Best TVs Revealed

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. Ashampoo Music Studio 2009
2. TuneUp Utilities 2008
   

Australian APC Magazine August 2009

Features

1. Windows 7 Hardware Guide
2. Touchscreen Smartphones

Mozilla Firefox 3.5.1

The latest release fixed several security issues:

MFSA 2009-41 Corrupt JIT state after deep return from native function

MFSA 2009-35 Crash and remote code execution during Flash player unloading

PC Pro September 2009

Features

1. Why bother with 64-bit Windows?
2. The ten rules of building a small business network

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. O&O SafeErase 3
2. O&O UnErase 2
   

Computer Shopper September 2009

Features

1. Get a head start at university
2. Make your PC go faster for free
3. Introduction to web hosting

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. Tenebril GhostSurf Platinum 5.5
   

Australian APC Magazine July 2009

Features

1. Windows Boot Camp
2. Best Netbooks

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. 1-abc File Encryptor 2
   

Patch Tuesday July 2009

Microsoft has released the following security updates for Windows XP:

Cumulative Security Update for ActiveX Killbits for Windows XP (KB973346)

Security Update for Windows XP (KB961371)

Security Update for Windows XP (KB971633)

Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool - July 2009 (KB890830)

PC Advisor September 2009

Features

1. Most Trusted Security Suites
2. What Google Knows About You
   

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2009 (6-month licence) - Free Upgrade to Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2010 or Kaspersky Internet Security 2010
   
2. Ashampoo Burning Studio 2009
3. Lavasoft Registry Tuner
   

LG LCD TV Monitor

I bought this 22" LG LCD TV monitor M228WA for 2 purposes - connecting PC and watching TV. It has a resolution of 1680 x 1050, brightness 300 cd/sq m and contrast ratio 1000:1. There is also D-Sub (VGA) and DVI connections to a PC. For TV, you can connect via antenna, RCA, S-Video or component cable. It costs $399 with 3 years on-site warranty.

Since my PC has dual display inputs - VGA/HDMI or VGA/DVI, I can connect to 2 monitors, one via VGA and the other via DVI using this monitor. I tested connecting via HDMI to another LCD TV and it is blurred unlike VGA or DVI.

3G Wireless Router

Having a mobile broadband 3G USB modem is good enough for one user. But if you need to share with other users, then you'll need a 3G wireless router which is more expensive than a wireless router. D-Link DIR-451 costs $299 whereas Zyxel NBG412W3G costs $229.

Zyxel 3G router is Wi-Fi b/g certified with WPA2 and is compatible with Huawei E169, E170, E220 & E270 USB modems. You can disable remote management, change password, upgrade firmware and it has the important features and good to have features. It comes with 3 years warranty and you can even check your warranty period online.

Asus Express Gate 1.4.6.9

The following applications is available in Asus Express Gate 1.4.6.9:

1. Web Browser 0.9.3.04 (supports Adobe Flash 10.0.0.569 but not Sun JRE)
   
2. Skype version 2.0.0.72 (supports video)
   
3. Photo Manager 1.0
   
4. Chat Instant Messenger 0.9.59.9671
   
5. Online Games

Only the web browser and chat have changed since version 1.3.3.1. The other improvement is you can export your bookmarks in Internet Explorer and Firefox using Express Gate Configuration Tool as shown.

Australian PC Authority August 2009

Features

1. The 101 greatest websites you've never seen
2. Affordable laptops tested

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. East-Tec Backup 2008
   

Asus Express Gate 1.3.3.1

I just found out that Asus Express Gate 1.4.6.9 is available to download for my budget test PC with Asus M2N68-VM motherboard. The version which comes with the motherboard's DVD is 1.3.3.1. Since there is no mention of the changes and I can't find the differences online, the only way to find out is to install this new version.

The following applications is available in Asus Express Gate 1.3.3.1:

1. Web Browser 0.9.2.12
   
2. Skype version 2.0.0.72 (supports video)
   
3. Photo Manager 1.0
   
4. Chat Instant Messenger 0.9.0.0
   
5. Online Games
   

Wired Print Server for Wireless Printing

In my previous post, I mentioned that you don't need a wireless print server for wireless printing. I tested this wired print server TP-Link TL-PS110U ($78) for USB printer. Even wireless users can print to the same printer when the wired print server is connected to a wireless router.

TP-Link also has other models - TL-PS110P for parallel printer, TL-PS210U for USB multi-function printer (print, scan, fax, copy) and TL-PS310U for USB multi-function printer with storage server. If you still need a wireless print server, TP-Link also has TL-WPS510U.

Mozilla Firefox 3.5

I installed this latest version and the browser crashed many times for no reason. In terms of security, there is no improvement except for private browsing mode. But, you can also manually configure the previous version Mozilla Firefox 3.0.11 to do the same thing.

I'll advise not using this new version until Mozilla has fixed its bugs.

Cannot Do Clean Install With Windows 7 Upgrade Media

As shown from Windows 7 Upgrade Option website, you're not entitled to upgrade from an OEM version of Windows Vista to Windows 7 from your local system builders.

Also contrary to report, you won't be able to do a clean install with Windows 7 upgrade media from a retail full/upgrade version of Windows Vista.

Buffalo MediaStation Portable DVD Drive

Since I've 2 netbooks - Acer Aspire One AOA110 and Lenovo IdeaPad S10, I wanted to buy a USB bus powered portable DVD drive without the need for an external power adapter. I tested three such drives - LG GP08 ($133), Panasonic UJ-880A ($125) and Buffalo DVM-P8U2/BW-AP ($80).

LG GP08 was not detected in the BIOS of both AOA110 and S10 so I can't boot from CD/DVD to install any OS but can be used within Windows. Both Panasonic UJ-880A and Buffalo DVM-P8U2 were detected in the BIOS of the netbooks.

In the end, I chose Buffalo DVM-P8U2 because it is cheaper and the pearl white colour matches my S10. The only downside is that it can't read/write DVD-RAM which I don't need.

Microsoft Windows 7 Upgrade Option Program

If you purchase a new PC running Windows Vista Home Premium, Windows Vista Business or Windows Vista Ultimate from today until January 31, 2010, you're entitled to a upgrade to Windows 7 Home Premium, Windows 7 Professional or Windows 7 Ultimate respectively.

You can check the following PC manufacturers for more information or visit Microsoft website:

1. HP
2. Dell
3. Lenovo
4. Acer
5. Toshiba
6. Asus
   

Computer Shopper August 2009

Features

1. TV Anywhere
   
2. Master your word processor
3. Mean & Green

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. Encyclopedia Britannica
2. Humyo (six-month edition)
   

PC Pro August 2009

Features

1. Windows 7: The complete guide
2. Web terrorism: fact or fiction?
3. The hardware and software SMBs need to succeed

Cover DVD (Free Paid Full Version)

1. Incomedia WebSite X5 8
2. Eraser 2008
   

ClamWin Free Antivirus 0.95.1

ClamWin Free Antivirus is portable and works from USB flash drive.

There is only on-demand scan but no on-access scan which means no real-time protection from malware. This is sufficient because I only use it to scan downloaded files. It passed all the anti-malware testfiles.

CCleaner Portable 2.20.920

You can download the latest version of CCleaner Portable without the need to install.

Now it supports Windows 7 RC and 64-bit processor.

Mozilla Firefox 3.0.11

The latest release fixed several security issues:

MFSA 2009-32 JavaScript chrome privilege escalation

MFSA 2009-31 XUL scripts bypass content-policy checks

MFSA 2009-30 Incorrect principal set for file: resources loaded via location bar

MFSA 2009-29 Arbitrary code execution using event listeners attached to an element whose owner document is null

MFSA 2009-28 Race condition while accessing the private data of a NPObject JS wrapper class object

MFSA 2009-27 SSL tampering via non-200 responses to proxy CONNECT requests

MFSA 2009-26 Arbitrary domain cookie access by local file: resources

MFSA 2009-25 URL spoofing with invalid unicode characters

MFSA 2009-24 Crashes with evidence of memory corruption (rv:1.9.0.11)