The computer screen dims after resume from Hibernation

The computer screen dims after resume from hibernation in Windows 7

This problem is related to Hibernation on Windows 7 PC and Laptops.
Customers running the Windows 7 client have reported issues in which they are unable to resume activity after their computer goes into hibernation.

According to Microsoft in some cases, the computer screen will dim after the users log on to resume from hibernation.

This issue is related specifically to Windows 7 and may be on Windows Server 2008 R2. Source: KB982635.

Condition of the issue:

• You have a computer that is running Windows 7.
• You configure the power button to be used for hibernation on the computer.
• You change the setting of the Password protection on wake up setting to the Require a password (recommended) option.
• The computer is put into hibernation.
• You press the power button to resume the computer from hibernation. You are prompted to enter your user account credentials.
• The computer is put into hibernation again while you try to log on to the computer.
• For example, the computer is put into hibernation because of low power or because the power button is pressed by mistake.
• You press the power button to resume the computer from hibernation again.

In this situation, the computer screen dims after you log on to resume from hibernation.

Cause: This issue occurs because two threads try to fade out the monitor at the same time.

Workaround: For Windows 7 and for Windows Server 2008 R2
To work around this issue, log on and then log off the computer.

Resolution:
Hotfix download available for only for Windows 7 (x86).

Request for hotfix HERE. Or Download it here.

Enable or Disable Windows Update Auto Restart

Stop and Disable Windows Update Auto Restart or Reboot

Auto-Restart dialog box

After downloading and installing an update from Windows Update, a window constantly pops up nagging you to restart, and even counting down to an automatic restart.
In Windows 7, Windows Vista and Windows XP, after installing downloaded updates via Windows Update manually or scheduled Automatic Updates automatically, the system will ask to auto-restart to apply all the updates.

Windows 7 has the option to allow users to postpone or delay the restart, the computer will still automatically reboot sometime later, if the updates required reboot to complete the installation.
If the system is has running an important task and cannot be restarted right now then you may stop rebooting after the updates are installed. You can change this feature of Auto-restart/Auto-reboot in group policy so that you will not be interrupted while working.

Local Group Policy Editor

Here are the procedure to enable / disable the auto-restart feature:
Group Policy setting:

1. Click Start -> Run
2. Enter “gpedit.msc”
3. Go to Local Computer Policy -> Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates –> Windows Components -> Windows Update
4. Double-click on “No auto-restart for scheduled Automatic Update installation”
5. Disable or Enable it.
6. Reboot the computer.

No auto-restart for scheduled Automatic Update installation

You can also change the default setting of “Re-prompt for restart with scheduled installations” to remind you once a day, or so if you can still stand these pop-ups.

Re-prompt for restart with scheduled installations

Registry Editor setting:
This setting can be changed through registry with the following registry key and value.

1. Run Registry Editor (RegEdit). Type regedit in RUN box from start menu.
2. Go to Navigate to the following registry key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate\AU
3. Change the NoAutoRebootWithLoggedOnUsers (If the key does not exist, create new one with this name) DWORD (32-bit) Value to 1 to disallow auto-reboot. By default, the value is 0 which allow auto-reboot.
4. Close registry editor.

When the policy is enabled, Automatic Updates will wait for the computer to be restarted by any user who is logged on, and not restart automatically. And Windows will not notify users that a restart is required to apply the updates.

Note:
This article is applicable for: Windows XP, Windows Server 2003, Vista, Server 2008,  Windows 7,  Server 2008 R2 and later.
References:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/328010

Notable Changes in Service Pack 1 for Windows 7 and Server 2008 R2

Notable Changes in Service Pack 1 for Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2

Content Source: Microsoft.com KB976932

Note: This article discusses a beta release of a Microsoft product. The information in this article is provided as-is and is subject to change without notice.

Download the Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 Service Pack 1 Beta package today from HERE

Introduction to Service Pack 1

Service Packs help ensure that your systems are up-to-date. Updates to the Windows operating system, including updates released with bulletins from the Microsoft Security Response Center, are only built for currently-supported service packs. Installing the latest service pack ensures customers have the maximum support lifecycle for their investment.

Service Pack 1 for Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 will include previously released updates and will deliver a number of powerful new features for Windows Server 2008 R2 for virtualization and Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI). New techniques in memory management with the addition of Dynamic Memory functionality, as well as the ability to deliver full-fidelity graphic experiences in remote and virtualized environments with Microsoft RemoteFX™, enable organizations to realize the greatest possible potential from their infrastructure. The resulting increase in efficiency and functionality allows for accelerated server consolidation, a more powerful virtualized desktop infrastructure, and an increased return on technology investments.

The impact of SP1 on the Windows 7 client operating system is considered to be minimal. Included changes are expected to address minor usability issues in specific scenarios, as outlined in this document. Microsoft recommends that organizations do not need to wait for SP1 to begin receiving the value of Windows 7 today as we don’t anticipate the SP1 for Windows 7 to be substantial.

Service Pack 1 size

Delivery Method	Recommended Usage	Download size (x86)	Download size (x64)	Download size (ia64)
Standalone package	· Computers without internet access · System Administrators	About 297 MB (Five language package)	About 535 MB (Five language package)	About 426 MB (Five language package)
Windows Update	· Most home users · Many business customers	About 23 MB (Windows 7)	· About 45 MB (Windows 7) · About 51 MB (Windows Server 2008 R2)	N/A
Integrated DVD	· New PCs · Fresh Windows installations · Vista upgrades	N/A	N/A	N/A

Changes specific to Windows 7

Additional support for communication with third-party federation services

Additional support has been added to allow Windows 7 clients to effectively communicate with third-party identity federation services (those supporting the WS-Federation passive profile protocol). This change enhances platform interoperability, and improves the ability to communicate identity and authentication information between organizations.

Improved HDMI audio device performance

A small percentage of users have reported issues in which the connection between computers running Windows 7 and HDMI audio devices can be lost after system reboots. Updates have been incorporated into SP1 to ensure that connections between Windows 7 computers and HDMI audio devices are consistently maintained.

Corrected behavior when printing mixed-orientation XPS documents

Prior to the release of SP1, some customers have reported difficulty when printing mixed-orientation XPS documents (documents containing pages in both portrait and landscape orientation) using the XPS Viewer, resulting in all pages being printed entirely in either portrait or landscape mode. This issue has been addressed in SP1, allowing users to correctly print mixed-orientation documents using the XPS Viewer.

Changes specific to Windows Server 2008 R2

Dynamic Memory

Constraints on the allocation of physical memory represents one of the greatest challenges organizations face as they adopt new virtualization technology and consolidate their infrastructure. With Dynamic Memory, an enhancement to Hyper-V™ introduced in Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1, organizations can now make the most efficient use of available physical memory, allowing them to realize the greatest possible potential from their virtualization resources. Dynamic Memory allows for memory on a host machine to be pooled and dynamically distributed to virtual machines as necessary. Memory is dynamically added or removed based on current workloads, and is done so without service interruption.

Virtual machines running a wide variety of operating systems can use Dynamic Memory; for a complete list, see the “Dynamic Memory Evaluation Guide” at http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=192444. The guide also discusses Dynamic Memory settings and usage in detail.

Microsoft RemoteFX

Businesses are increasingly looking to leverage the efficiency and cost savings that can come from a virtualized desktop infrastructure. With the addition of Microsoft RemoteFX in Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1, a new set of remote user experience capabilities that enable a media-rich user environment for virtual desktops, session-based desktops and remote applications is introduced. Harnessing the power of virtualized graphics resources, RemoteFX can be deployed to a range of thick and thin client devices, enabling cost-effective, local-like access to graphics-intensive applications and a broad array of end user peripherals, improving productivity of remote users.

RemoteFX can function independently from specific graphics stacks and supports any screen content, including today’s most advanced applications and rich content (including Silverlight and Adobe Flash), ensuring that end users maintain a rich, local-like desktop experience even in a virtualized thin-client environment.

RemoteFX also adds mainstream USB device support to virtual desktop computing, including support for USB drives, cameras and PDAs connected to the client device. RemoteFX also provides a platform for hardware and software partners to enhance RemoteFX capabilities in a variety of possible host, client and network configurations.

To use RemoteFX, the virtualization server must be running Windows Server 2008 R2 with SP1, the virtual machine must be running Windows 7 Enterprise with SP1 or Windows 7 Ultimate with SP1, and the remote client computer must be running either Windows Server 2008 R2 with SP1 or Windows 7 with SP1. To connect to the virtual machine, the remote client computer requires an updated version of Remote Desktop Services (included in the service pack for all editions of Windows 7).

Enhancements to scalability and high availability when using DirectAccess

DirectAccess is a new feature in the Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 operating systems that gives users the experience of being seamlessly connected to their corporate network any time they have Internet access. In Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1, improvements have been made to enhance scalability and high availability when using DirectAccess, through the addition of support for 6to4 and ISATAP addresses when using DirectAccess in conjunction with Network Load Balancing (NLB).

Support for Managed Service Accounts (MSAs) in secure branch office scenarios

SP1 enables enhanced support for managed service accounts (MSAs) to be used on domain-member services located in perimeter networks (also known as DMZs or extranets).

Support for increased volume of authentication traffic on domain controllers connected to high-latency networks

As a greater volume of IT infrastructure migrates to cloud-based services, there is a need for higher thresholds of authentication traffic to domain controllers located on high-latency networks (such as the public Internet). SP1 allows for more granular control of the maximum number of possible concurrent connections to a domain controller, enabling a greater degree of performance tuning for service providers.

Enhancements to Failover Clustering with Storage

SP1 enables enhanced support for how Failover Clustering works with storage that is not visible for all cluster nodes. In SP1, improvements have been made to the Cluster Validation and multiple Failover Cluster Manager wizards to allow workloads to use disks that are shared between a subset of cluster nodes.

Changes specific to Windows 7

Additional support for communication with third-party federation services

Additional support has been added to allow Windows 7 clients to effectively communicate with third-party identity federation services (those supporting the WS-Federation passive profile protocol). This change enhances platform interoperability, and improves the ability to communicate identity and authentication information between organizations.

Improved HDMI audio device performance

A small percentage of users have reported issues in which the connection between computers running Windows 7 and HDMI audio devices can be lost after system reboots. Updates have been incorporated into SP1 to ensure that connections between Windows 7 computers and HDMI audio devices are consistently maintained.

Corrected behavior when printing mixed-orientation XPS documents

Prior to the release of SP1, some customers have reported difficulty when printing mixed-orientation XPS documents (documents containing pages in both portrait and landscape orientation) using the XPS Viewer, resulting in all pages being printed entirely in either portrait or landscape mode. This issue has been addressed in SP1, allowing users to correctly print mixed-orientation documents using the XPS Viewer.

Changes common to both client and server platforms

Change to behavior of “Restore previous folders at logon” functionality

SP1 changes the behavior of the “Restore previous folders at logon” function available in the Folder Options Explorer dialog. Prior to SP1, previous folders would be restored in a cascaded position based on the location of the most recently active folder. That behavior changes in SP1 so that all folders are restored to their previous positions.

Enhanced support for additional identities in RRAS and IPsec

Support for additional identification types has been added to the Identification field in the IKEv2 authentication protocol. This allows for a variety of additional forms of identification (such as E-mail ID or Certificate Subject) to be used when performing authentication using the IKEv2 protocol.

Support for Advanced Vector Extensions (AVX)

There has always been a growing need for ever more computing power and as usage models change, processors instruction set architectures evolve to support these growing demands. Advanced Vector Extensions (AVX) is a 256 bit instruction set extension for processors. AVX is designed to allow for improved performance for applications that are floating point intensive. Support for AVX is a part of SP1 to allow applications to fully utilize the new instruction set and register extensions.

Conclusion

While many of the updates contained in SP1 are available as individual downloads, the integration of these updates in SP1 enhances the ease of deployment for IT administrators. This functionality, coupled with advanced new virtualization features such as Dynamic Memory and RemoteFX, demonstrates how SP1 will provide the ongoing improvements those customers and organizations alike have grown to expect from Microsoft.

Key Infos:

Release date: expected to release in the first quarter of 2011.

Updates: Contains more than 473 updates, (456 hotfixes + 17 security updates). Download update list here.

References:

• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_7
• Download the Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1 Beta Reviewer’s Guide to evaluate the core features of Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1 Beta release in your environment.
• Explaining Microsoft RemoteFX
• Dynamic Memory Coming To Hyper-V
• Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1 Forum
• Microsoft RemoteFX
• Windows Support Forum

Collection: bcdalai

Windows 7 XP Mode Limits Media Player Functionality

Windows 7 XP Mode Limits Windows Media Player Functionality

Article Source: news.softpedia.com. By Marius Oiaga, Technology News Editor, @MariusOiaga

 Windows 7 XP Mode

When it revealed that it was going to deliver a free and activated copy of Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3) for select editions of Windows 7, Microsoft also indicated that the virtualized version of the operating system releases in 2001 comes with a few shortcomings. Windows XP Mode in Windows 7 cannot be used in gaming scenarios, for example. This week, the Redmond company described further limitations for the free but virtualized copy of XP delivered to customers running the Professional, Enterprise and Ultimate SKUs.


It appears that Windows Media Player functionality is limited in Windows 7 XP Mode. In fact, according to the software giant, users will not be able to leverage the Windows Media Player inside Windows 7 XP Mode in the same manner as they do on Windows 7.
“When you maximize or minimize the Windows Media Player window while playing contents on Windows 7 running Windows XP Mode, you may receive an "unexpected network error occurred" error message, which causes Windows Media Player to stop playing,” Microsoft stated.

Microsoft explained that there is no bug behind this problem, and that quite to the contrary, this was the normal, intended behavior from the get go. “This behavior is by design,” the company explained. Of course, in the context in which Windows 7 XP Mode was designed with the limitations noted above, customers that have stumbled across this issue should not expect Microsoft to fix it.

And while there won’t be an update or a hotfix enabling the full functionality of Windows Media Player inside Windows 7 XP Mode, customers won’t even be able to deploy a manual fix. “There is no workaround for it,” the software giant underlined. In this context, customers taking advantage of Windows 7 XP Mode should avoid running Windows Media Player, and the frustration that will come with not being able to take advantage of basic functionality such as minimize and maximize.

References:
Update for Windows 7 (KB977206)
Update for Windows 7 for x64-based Systems (KB977206)
Windows XP Mode RTM and Windows Virtual PC RTM are available for download here.
Collection: bcdalai

What's your say ??? Send Reply

IT Career - Microsoft ICT Curriculum Roadmap

Microsoft ICT Curriculum Roadmap

ICT Roadmap

Welcome to the Microsoft information and communications technology (ICT) curriculum roadmap. This roadmap guides you through Microsoft Learning products toward a career in computer technology. Whether you are new to computing or have some experience, this roadmap helps you understand the skills and knowledge requirements necessary to begin or resume your career in ICT.

Select a job role to view the ICT curriculum roadmap

• Desktop support technician
• Systems administrator
• Database administrator
• Web or Windows developer
• Systems engineer
• Business worker
• New: Server administrator
• New: Enterprise administrator

If you have experience in computing, the roadmap helps you identify the learning path in preparing for the ICT career of your choice. Determine your starting point by reviewing the prerequisites necessary for each knowledge point in the curriculum. Then use the roadmap's resources to test your readiness, using assessment exams or a self-assess option to check your skills against the skills measured. If you need more training, choose training resources that suit your learning style: classroom courses, e-learning, or independent study.

Charting your progress is easy as you use the roadmap to guide you through the curriculum. An important step along the way is to validate your knowledge and skills by becoming a Microsoft Certified Professional. By having this credential, you let employers know that you are qualified. Whether your goal is to be a systems engineer or to improve your personal productivity when using Microsoft Office programs, the Microsoft ICT curriculum roadmap is your one-stop tool.

• Learn more about becoming a Microsoft Certified Professional

Note to educators The Microsoft ICT curriculum roadmap is a useful tool in mapping the technology components of your programs to the knowledge and skills of ICT jobs in the marketplace. Augmenting your programs with the employability skills that emphasize teamwork, communication, critical thinking, and problem solving throughout your curriculum is crucial in developing an employable ICT workforce.

Let us know what you think. Send feedback about the ICT curriculum roadmap to Faculty Outreach at facout@microsoft.com. 

----------------------------------------

See the full-sized roadmap

	Download Microsoft XPS file
	Download PDF file

----------------------------------------

 Article source: Microsoft

--------------------------------

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What's your say ???

List your favorite softwares and tools here

Hello Bloggers and Compter users, Here I'm asking you all about the favorite software and tools you like in for your PC / Laptop / Server.

Tell me in this article through the comment form or by email: [bcdalai2020[at]gmail[dot]com]



Whatever the program may be anything like (example):

Operating Systems, Anti-Spyware, Anti-Virus/Firewall, System Tools, Cleaner Tools, Drivers, Internet Tools, Firewalls, Graphics & Design, MultiMedia, Desktop, CD/DVD Tools, Office/Business, File Tools, Programming, PDF, PHOTO Tools, VIDEO Tools, MP3 & AUDIO, Convertes, Backup/Recovery, Utilities Tools, Networking, And Other Tools. 

Special Notes:

Based on your feedback - When you are telling your likes and dislikes, then I'll review that particular apps on this blog. If any problem or issue discovered then, I'll analyze and troubleshoot here.

So come on and talk to me.

Requested by: bcdalai for BCDALAI's Free Tech. Support Blog.

 

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How to delete Gmail account

Introduction: Gmail is a free, advertising-supported webmail, POP3, and IMAP service provided by Google. Gmail was launched as an invitation-only beta release on April 1, 2004 and it became available to the general public on February 7, 2007, though still in beta status at that time. As of December 2009 it has 176 million users monthly. The service was upgraded from beta status on July 7, 2009.

With an initial storage capacity offer of 1 GB per user, Gmail significantly increased the webmail standard for free storage from the 2 to 4 MB its competitors offered at that time. Gmail has a search-oriented interface and a "conversation view" similar to an Internet forum.

Features on Free version

1 - Storage: Gmail's log-in page (July 2009) The Gmail service currently provides more than 7450 MB of free storage.

2 - Gmail Labs: The Gmail Labs feature, introduced on June 5, 2008, allows users to test new or experimental features of Gmail, such as bookmarking of important e-mail messages, custom keyboard-shortcuts and games and many more.

3 - Spam filter: Gmail's spam filtering features a community-driven system: when any user marks an email as spam, this provides information to help the system identify similar future messages for all Gmail users. Users may tune the system to allow mail marked as spam to be handled in particular ways.

4 - Gmail Mobile: Gmail Mobile is a version of Google's Gmail email service. It is a free service, developed to provide access to Gmail from mobile devices such as cell phones, or smartphones.

5 - Gmail on iPad: On April 3, 2010, Google announced a new two-pane layout designed specifically for the iPad.

6 - Google Buzz: On February 9, 2010, Google commenced their new service, Google Buzz, which integrates with Gmail allowing users to share links and media, as well as status updates. Gmail allowing users to share links and media, as well as status updates.

Information courtesy: Wikipedia

Deleting Gmail account

Gmail email id is automatically deactivated and deleted if you will not use the account more than 9 months or 270 days.

But if you want to delete the account manually then you can do so.

Steps in deleting Gmail account:

1- Log on to http://mail.google.com/, then go to settings. (see Screenshot –1)

2- Click the link “Google Account Settings”. (see Screenshot –2)

OR

3- Directly logon to: https://www.google.com/accounts/ManageAccount?service=mail&hl=en

4- Then click Edit right to My Product section (see Screenshot –3).

5- Next Click “Close account and delete all services and info associated with it” link below Delete Account. (see Screenshot –4)

6- Next follow the steps on screen. (see Screenshot –5) Provide the password again.

7- Then click the button “Delete Google Account.”

8- And now the account is deleted. (see Screenshot -6)

9- Finish.

Screenshots:

Screenshot -1

Screenshot -2

Screenshot -3

Screenshot -4

Screenshot -5

Screenshot –4

Finish. Now the your account is deleted.

How to delete Yahoo! Mail account

How to delete Yahoo! Mail account

Introduction: Yahoo! Mail (shortened to Y! Mail) is a free web mail service provided by Yahoo!. It was inaugurated in 1997. It is currently the largest web-based email service.
Currently, Yahoo! offers two versions of Yahoo! Mail: an Outlook-like Ajax interface, as well as the traditional full-page-scroll "Yahoo! Mail Classic," which continues the availability of the simpler. In early 2008, Yahoo! started offering unlimited mail storage even to its users, in response to heated competition in the free-web mail market segment.

Features on Free version:
- Unlimited Mail Storage.
- 25 MB attachments
- 100 filters to automatically sort incoming messages (200 filters for the Plus version)
Protection against spam and viruses.
- Advertising is displayed on the screen while working with the e-mail account, but text ads are not within the emails themselves, and they are no longer added to the footer of outgoing messages.
- POP3 support, Mail Forwarding facility, and SMTP support in some countries (but not in the US).
- Accounts not logged into for four months get deactivated (The account can be retrieved but all stored data, such as emails, are lost).
- Early in 2006, Yahoo! Mail introduced aliases to its repertoire of features. Users could now add a (single) alias username containing a dot character for a pre-existing account.
- The Chinese version of Yahoo! Mail offers 3.5 GB quota and 20 MB attachments.
- Some users get features added if they are long time users.
- Latest beta of Yahoo! Zimbra desktop allows for all Yahoo! users to use the software.

Information courtesy: Wikipedia

Delete A Yahoo account

Yahoo email id is automatically deactivated and deleted if you will not use the account more than 4 months or 120 days. But if you want to delete the account manually then you can do so.

Steps in deleting Yahoo account:

1- Log on to this page: https://edit.yahoo.com/config/delete_user

2- This is the link for deleting yahoo address permanently. Provide the user name and password. Your account will be deleted within 90 days.

3- Then follow the steps on screen.

4- Provide the password again and the code in the image.

5- Then click the button “Terminate this Account.”

6- Finish.

Note: Yahoo Rules mention this point: In most cases your account will be deactivated and then deleted from our user registration database in approximately 90 days. This delay is necessary to discourage users from engaging in fraudulent activity. Additionally, due to the limited number of names available, we may allow other users to sign up for and use your current Yahoo! ID and profile names after your account has been deleted.'

Screenshots:

 

Image-1: ( part 1 of part 2)

Image-1: ( part 2 of part 2)

 

Image–2 (Final)

Now Your Yahoo account is deleted.

Finish.

Changed Feature Names on Vista, 2008, Windows 7

Changed Feature Names on Vista, Server 2008 and Windows 7

Posted: 22th June 2010, Updated: 27th Apr 2011.

80+ new Windows feature names.

After the introduction of Windows Vista, Microsoft changed many features and components in the new edition of Windows (i.e. Vista). Some of the features, technologies, components and services are redesigned or developed. And also OS feature/component names are changed and the functionality of some items has been enhanced and moved or consolidated with other features with a new ones.

Here are the lists of features/components that are changed or modified in Windows Vista, Windows Server 2008 and in Windows 7 etc.

FORMER NAME	LATER NAME
WINDOWS 2000, XP, SERVER 2003 etc.	WINDOWS VISTA (Client OS)
Accessibility Options	Ease of Access Center
Add or Remove Programs	Programs and Features
Address Book	Windows Contacts
Automated System Recovery (ASR)	Windows Complete PC Restore
Computer Browser	Network Discovery Protocol (NDP)
Documents and Settings	Users
Error Reporting	Windows Error Reporting (WER)
Files and Setting Transfer Wizard	Windows Easy Transfer (WET)
Local Security Settings	Security Configuration Management
Microsoft Synchronization Tool	Sync Center
My Computer	Computer
My Documents	Documents
My Music	Music
My Network Places	Network Places
My Pictures	Pictures
My Recent Documents	Recent Documents
My Videos	Videos
NetMeeting	Windows Meeting Space
NTBackup (Windows Backup Utility)	Backup and Restore Center
Outlook Express	Windows Mail
Performance Monitor	Reliability and Performance Monitor
Prefetch	Superfetch
Regional Settings	Region and Language
Remote Assistance	Windows Remote Assistance
Run As	Run As Administrator
Scheduled Tasks	Task Scheduler
Stored Use Names and Passwords	Credential Manager
System File Checker (SFC)	System Integrity Check and Repair
System Restore	System Protection
Tour Windows XP	Getting Started or Welcome Center
Windows File Protection (WFP)	Windows Resource Protection (WRP)
Windows Messenger	Windows Live Messenger
Windows Picture and Fax Viewer	Windows Photo Gallery
Windows Services for Unix	Subsystem for Unix-based Applications
Windows Vista	Windows 7
Backup and Restore Center	Backup and Restore
Network Places	Networks
Pen and Input Devices	Pen and Touch
Printers	Devices And Printers
Problem Reports and Solutions	Action Center
Regional and Language Options	Region and Language
Welcome Center	Getting Started
Windows Marketplace	Get Programs (Online)
Windows Photo Gallery	Windows Photo Viewer
Windows Security Center	Action Center
Windows Sidebar	Desktop Gadgets
WINDOWS SERVER 2008 (Server OS)
Computer Management	Server Manager
Error Reporting	Problem Reports and Solutions
NTBackup (Windows Backup Utility)	Windows Server Backup
Windows Firewall	Windows Firewall with Advanced Security
OTHER TECHNOLOGY / FEATURE
Data Protection Server	System Center Data Protection Manager (DPM)
MDAC (Microsoft Data Access Components)	Windows DAC
Microsoft Business Solutions	Microsoft Dynamics products
Microsoft Installer	Windows Installer
Microsoft Internet Explorer (till IE6)	Windows Internet Explorer (IE7 onwards)
Microsoft Office Groove	Microsoft SharePoint Workspace
Microsoft Office Outlook	Microsoft Outlook
Microsoft Operations Manager (MOM)	System Center Operations Manager (SCOM)
Microsoft Shared Computer Toolkit	Windows SteadyState
Microsoft Virtual PC	Windows Virtual PC
Remote Installation Services (RIS)	Windows Deployment Services (WDS)
System File Protection	Windows File Protection
Systems Management Server (SMS)	System Center Configuration Manager
Windows Genuine Advantage (WGA)	Windows Activation Technology (WAT)
Windows Photo Gallery	Windows Live Photo Gallery
Windows Scripting Host	Windows Script Host

Get this article in a Downloadable file: See the end of these file of table-16 in APPENDIX section to find this table of lists.

Download PDF here:

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------------------------------------------------------------
Posted by: bcdalai

Useful Keyboard Shortcuts in Windows 7

Useful Keyboard Shortcuts for Windows 7

Posted: 22th June 2010, Updated: 14th Aug 2010.

Windows 7 includes many handy keyboard shortcut key combinations that allow you to navigate and manage the Windows workspace more efficiently. Here are few  shortcuts for Microsoft Windows 7 that will help you speed up your works:

Note: (“Win” means the Windows Key).


Ctrl+click: Pressing Ctrl while clicking a taskbar icon will scroll through multiple windows of that icon's application.
Ctrl+S: Saves a file for application in Windows.
Win+(numbers 1 to 5): Starts the program pinned to the taskbar in the position indicated by the number. If the program is already running, it switches to that program.
Win+Alt+(numbers 1 to 5): Opens the Jump List of recently accessed items for the program pinned to the taskbar in the position indicated by the number.
Win+Ctrl+(numbers 1 to 5): Switches to the last active window of the program pinned to the taskbar in the position indicated by the number.
Win+Ctrl+B: Switches to the program that displayed a message in the notification area.
Win+Ctrl+F: Opens a Search window for finding computers on a network.
Win+Ctrl+Tab and then Left or Right Arrow: Opens Aero Flip 3-D to cycle through open programs.
Win+D: Shows the desktop.
Win+Down Arrow: Minimizes the window.
Win+E: Opens Windows Explorer with Computer selected.
Win+F: Opens a Search window for finding files or folders.
Win+G: Cycles through Gadgets (if available).
Win+Home: Minimizes all but the active window.
Win+L: Locks your computer or switches users.
Win+Left Arrow: Docks the active window to the left half of the screen.
Win+M: Minimizes all windows.
Win+P: Chooses a presentation display mode.
Win+Pause: Displays the System Control Panel applet.
Win+R: Opens the Run dialog box.
Win+Right Arrow: Docks the active window to the right half of the screen.
Win+Shift+(numbers 1 to 5): Starts a new instance of the program pinned to the taskbar in the position indicated by the number.
Win+Shift+Left or Right Arrow: Moves the window from one monitor to another.
Win+Shift+M: Restores minimized windows.
Win+Shift+Up Arrow: Stretches the window to the top and bottom of the screen.
Win+Spacebar: Shows the desktop without minimizing open windows (Aero Peek).
Win+T: Cycles through and previews programs on the taskbar.
Win+Tab: Cycles through open programs by using Aero Flip 3-D. (If Aero is working.)
Win+U: Opens the Ease of Access Center.
Win+Up Arrow: Maximizes the window.
Win+X: Opens the Windows Mobility Center.

If you have more keyboard shortcuts then add those here.


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Posted by: bcdalai

Windows 7 Resources for IT Professionals

Windows 7 Resources for IT Professionals

Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor

Brief Description

Download and run the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor to see if your PC is ready for Windows 7. It scans your hardware, devices, and installed programs for known compatibility issues, gives you guidance on how to resolve potential issues found, and recommends what to do before you upgrade.

Overview

Before you begin: Be sure to plug in and turn on any USB devices or other devices, such as printers,

external hard disks, and scanners, that you regularly use with the PC you're checking.

The Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor scans your PC for potential compatibility issues and lets you know about

your Windows 7 upgrade options. Within minutes, you'll get a report that tells you if your PC meets the

system requirements, if any known compatibility issues with your hardware, devices, and installed programs are found, and gives guidance on what to do to before installing Windows 7 on your PC.

Download:

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?displaylang=en&FamilyID=1b544e90-7659-4bd9-9e51-2497c146af15

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Windows Easy Transfer for transferring from Windows XP (32 bit) to Windows 7

Brief Description

Use Windows Easy Transfer to copy your files, photos, music, e-mail, settings, and more from a computer running Windows XP to a computer running Windows 7. You can transfer data using an Easy Transfer Cable, removable media, or across a network.

Overview

This software installs Windows Easy Transfer on a computer running the 32-bit version of Windows XP

so you can copy your files, photos, music, e-mail, settings, and more to a computer running Windows

7. If your computer is running another version of Windows, you can download other versions of Windows Easy Transfer by following this link. This software is already built into Windows 7, so it is not necessary to install it on a computer running Windows 7.

Download:

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?familyid=734917D8-0663-4C26-89D0-2D00B632EBDB&displaylang=en

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BitLocker To Go Reader

Brief Description

The BitLocker To Go Reader is an application that provides users read-only access to BitLocker-protected FAT-formatted drives on computers running Windows XP or Windows Vista.

Overview

BitLocker protection on removable drives is known as BitLocker To Go. When a BitLocker-protected removable drive is unlocked on a computer running Windows 7, the drive is automatically recognized and the user is either prompted for credentials to unlock the drive or the drive is unlocked automatically if configured to do so. Computers running Windows XP or Windows Vista do not automatically recognize that the removable drive is BitLocker-protected. With the BitLocker To Go Reader users can unlock the BitLocker-protected drives by using a password or a recovery password (also known as a recovery key) and gain read-only access to their data.

System Requirements

Supported Operating Systems: Windows Vista; Windows Vista 64-bit Editions Service Pack 1; Windows Vista Business; Windows Vista Business 64-bit edition; Windows Vista Enterprise; Windows Vista Enterprise 64-bit edition; Windows Vista Home Basic; Windows Vista Home Basic 64-bit edition; Windows Vista Home Premium; Windows Vista Home Premium 64-bit edition; Windows Vista Service Pack 1; Windows Vista Service Pack 2; Windows Vista Starter; Windows Vista Ultimate; Windows Vista Ultimate 64-bit edition; Windows XP 64-bit; Windows XP Service Pack 2; Windows XP Service Pack 3.

Download:

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=64851943-78C9-4CD4-8E8D-F551F06F6B3D&displaylang=en

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Microsoft Hardware-Assisted Virtualization Detection Tool

Brief Description

The Hardware-assisted virtualization (HAV) detection tool checks if the computer processor supports HAV and if this setting is enabled.

Overview

Windows Virtual PC requires processors capable of hardwareassisted virtualization with AMD-V™, Intel® VT or VIA® VT turned on in the BIOS. The HAV detection tool helps you check if the computer processor supports hardware virtualization. The tool also checks if this feature is enabled on the processor. For more information about Windows Virtual PC, please visit the Windows Virtual PC website.

To know whether your computer is compatible to run Windows XP Mode/Hyper-v/Windows Virtual PC or not use the following tool:

Download:

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=0EE2A17F-8538-4619-8D1C-05D27E11ADB2&displaylang=en

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Remote Server Administration Tools for Windows 7

Brief Description

Remote Server Administration Tools for Windows® 7 enables IT administrators to manage roles and features that are installed on computers that are running Windows Server® 2008 R2, Windows Server® 2008, or Windows Server® 2003, from a remote computer that is running Windows 7.

Overview

**Remote Server Administration Tools for Windows 7 can be installed ONLY on computers that are running the Enterprise, Professional, or Ultimate editions of Windows 7.**

Remote Server Administration Tools for Windows 7 enables IT administrators to manage roles and features that are installed on remote computers that are running Windows Server 2008 R2 (and, for some roles and features, Windows Server 2008 or Windows Server 2003) from a remote computer that is running Windows 7. It includes support for remote management of computers that are running either the Server Core or full installation options of Windows Server 2008 R2, and for some roles and features, Windows Server 2008. Some roles and features on Windows Server 2003 can be managed remotely by using Remote Server Administration Tools for Windows 7, although the Server Core installation option is not available with the Windows Server 2003 operating system. This feature is comparable in functionality to the Windows Server 2003 Administrative Tools Pack and Remote Server Administration Tools for Windows Vista with Service Pack 1 (SP1).

Download:

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?familyid=7D2F6AD7-656B-4313-A005-4E344E43997D&displaylang=en

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Microsoft Network Monitor 3.3

Brief Description

Tool to allow capturing and protocol analysis of network traffic.

Overview

Network Monitor 3.3 is a protocol analyzer. It allows you to capture network traffic, view and analyze it. Version 3.3 is an update and replaces Network Monitor 3.2. Network Monitor 3.x is a complete overhaul of the previous Network Monitor 2.x version.

System Requirements

Supported Operating Systems: Windows 7; Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 2; Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 2 x64 Edition; Windows Server 2008; Windows Server 2008 R2; Windows Server 2008 R2 for Itanium-based Systems; Windows Vista 64-bit Editions Service Pack 1; Windows Vista Service Pack 1; Windows XP 64-bit; Windows XP Service Pack 3

Download:

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?familyid=983B941D-06CB-4658-B7F6-3088333D062F&displaylang=en

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Update for Windows XP SP3 to enable RemoteApp

Brief Description

This package lets you to run many Windows XP productivity applications from a Windows 7-based PC using Windows Virtual PC

Overview

This package lets you to run many Windows XP productivity applications from a Windows 7-based PC using Windows Virtual PC. This patch needs to be installed in your Windows XP SP3 virtual machine.

For more information about Windows Virtual PC, please visit the Windows Virtual PC website.

Download:

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?familyid=E5433D88-685F-4036-B435-570FF53598CD&displaylang=en

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Update for Windows Vista SP1 or above to enable RemoteApp

Brief Description

This package lets you to run many Windows Vista productivity applications from Windows 7-based PC using Windows Virtual PC.

Overview

This package lets you to run many Windows Vista productivity applications from Windows 7-based PC using Windows Virtual PC. This package needs to be installed in your Windows Vista virtual machine.

For more information about Windows Virtual PC, please visit the Windows Virtual PC website.

Download:

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?familyid=26A2DE17-8355-4E8D-8F33-9211E48651FB&displaylang=en

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HYPER-V and RED HAT (Linux) support

Here are the details:

Red Hat Enterprise Linux 5.2, 5.3, 5.4 have passed cert tests when running on Windows Server 2008 Hyper-V, Microsoft Hyper-V Server 2008, Windows Server 2008 R2 Hyper-V, Microsoft Hyper-V Server 2008 R2. See more at RedHat's certified hardware site.

Windows Server 2003/ Windows Server 2008 / Windows Server 2008 R2 are validated to run on Red Hat Enterprise Linux 5.4, using their KVM-based hypervisor. See more at Microsoft Server Virtualization Validation Program site.

System Center Operations Manager 2007 R2 supports monitoring of the following operating systems:

HP-UX 11i v2 and v3 (PA-RISC and IA64)

Sun Solaris 8 and 9 (SPARC) and Solaris 10 (SPARC and x86)

Red Hat Enterprise Linux 4 (x86/x64) and 5 (x86/x64) Server

Novell SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 9 (x86) and 10 SP1 (x86/x64)

IBM AIX v5.3 and v6.1 (POWER)

Read:

http://blogs.technet.com/virtualization/archive/2009/10/07/microsoft-and-red-hat-complete-cooperative-technicalsupport.aspx

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Microsoft Press and TechNet Magazine have teamed up to create a free e-book:

Deploying Windows 7, Essential Guidance from the Windows 7 Resource Kit and TechNet Magazine. The e-book includes ten complete chapters from Microsoft Press’s Windows 7 Resource Kit (ISBN: 9780735627000; ISBN: 1760 pages), by Mitch

Tulloch, Tony Northrup, Jerry Honeycutt, Ed. Wilson, and the Windows 7 Team at Microsoft.

Download:

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?displaylang=en&FamilyID=ee2a1d38-88a9-43b3-95bc-7e962f0b6030

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Building a Standard Image of Windows 7 Step-by-Step Guide

Brief Description

Explains how to install a custom image by using an operating system image that includes your

customizations and applications.

Download:

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?familyid=901663E1-934F-4793-8EAE-7C0A1CCB83A5&displaylang=en

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Configuring Windows 7 for a Limited User Account

Brief Description

Explains how to set up your Administrator accounts through User Account Control.

Download:

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?familyid=C473923F-DED6-4D46-8D48-707F48B193EB&displaylang=en

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Download your free e-book of Introducing Windows Server 2008 R2

Introducing Windows Server 2008 R2 e-book.

Download:

http://download.microsoft.com/download/5/C/0/5C0BD0AB-040D-4C56-A60B-661001012DDA/Windows_Server_2008_R2_e-book.pdf

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77 Windows 7 Tips

Read:

http://technet.microsoft.com/enin/magazine/2009.10.77windows(en-us).aspx

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What’s New in Group Policy for Windows 7 and Windows Server

2008 R2

Read:

http://technet.microsoft.com/enin/magazine/2009.10.gpwin7(en-us).aspx

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UAC tweaks in Windows 7

Read:

http://news.cnet.com/8301-13860_3-10157978-56.html?tag=leftCol;post-1117

Article from: Windows 7 blog:

http://blogs.msdn.com/e7/archive/2009/01/15/useraccount-control-uac-quick-update.aspx

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Your Windows 7 Deployment Guide

Read:

http://technet.microsoft.com/enus/magazine/ee676738.aspx

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Windows 7 Remote Desktop Connection 7.0 for XP SP3 and Vista SP1 and SP2

“The Remote Desktop Connection 7.0 client update enables you to use the new Remote Desktop Services features. These features are introduced in Windows 7 and in Windows Server 2008 R2 and are available for computers that are running Windows Vista Service Pack 1 or Windows Vista Service Pack 2. After you install this item, you may have to restart your computer”.

Download:

Update for Windows XP (KB969084)

Update for Windows Vista (KB969084)

Update for Windows Vista for x64-based Systems (KB969084)

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Fully install Windows 7 from the upgrade disc

Read the full article here:

http://windowssecrets.com/comp/091112/

The pros and cons of switching to Windows 7:

Read:

http://windowssecrets.com/comp/091022/

Making the business case for Windows 7

http://blogs.techrepublic.com.com/tech-manager/?p=2287

Create a Windows XP and 7 dual-boot systemstaged for an easy migration

http://blogs.techrepublic.com.com/window-onwindows/?p=1728

What Windows 7 means to Windows server administrators:

http://blogs.techrepublic.com.com/datacenter/?p=1622

Windows Server 2008 R2 Foundation gives small networks more options

http://blogs.techrepublic.com.com/datacenter/?p=1600

Windows 7 Professional feature-to-feature comparison chart

http://blogs.techrepublic.com.com/window-onwindows/?p=1662

Delayed Start feature increases options for Windows services

http://blogs.techrepublic.com.com/datacenter/?p=1552

Determine processes running on a remote server with PsList

http://blogs.techrepublic.com.com/datacenter/?p=1606

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Engineering Windows 7

Read everything on Windows 7 on E7 blog

Visit:

http://blogs.msdn.com/e7/default.aspx

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Windows 7 Upgrade Paths

Read:

http://ranjanajain.spaces.live.com/Blog/cns%215F09EF6281DD4DB0%21779.entry

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Cloud Infrastructure

Read this article for more about Cloud Computing infrastructures:

http://itinfras.blogspot.com/2009/11/cloud-infrastructure.html

Challenges of Virtual Infrastructure Deployment and Management

Read this article:

http://itinfras.blogspot.com/2009/10/challenges-of-virtualinfrastructure.html

10+ ways Windows 7 will affect IT pros

Read:

http://blogs.techrepublic.com.com/10things/?p=1139

Installing Windows 7 on an existing Windows XP Computer

To install Windows 7 and migrate existing user files and settings. Read the complete article:

http://ranjanajain.spaces.live.com/blog/cns%215F09EF6281DD4DB0%21794.entry

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Disk2vhd Tool from Sysinternals

Yet another awesome tool from the Sysinternals team, Disk2vhd. As the name implies this tool can covert a physical disk into a virtual disk. Here is the quick summary of it’s capabilities. The converted VHD file can be used to boot from Virtual PC, Hyper-V and another physical machine as well Works on a machine that’s online VHD can be created on the same volume that is getting converted Preserves the partition information of the disk

Cool utility to create your physical dosk drive to a VHD file.

Download this tool from:

http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinternals/ee656415.aspx

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Windows Vista: Windows update went bad, now my PC is stuck in endless updating cycle

This is the place for all problem reports / Troubleshooting methods and more informations on Tech. Support. Read a recent post relating to a Windows Update issue on Windows Vista, from forum of CNET.com:

http://forums.cnet.com/5208-12546_102-0.html?messageID=3151505&tag=nl.e497

Read this and try to sort out the solutions here......

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Fix Windows 7 Activation Status Not Available or SLMgr 0×80070422 Error

Windows 7 displays the system activation status in System Properties, which can be accessed via Control Panel -> System and Security -> System. However, sometimes, Windows activation may display error message which saying activation status not available, together with product ID which is also not available.

Read this page for detail:

http://www.mydigitallife.info/2009/11/06/fixwindows-7-activation-status-not-available-orslmgr-0x80070422-error/

And also read:

http://www.mydigitallife.info/2009/11/08/fixwindows-7-kb974431-fails-to-install-with-c004f050-error/

Related articles:

http://www.mydigitallife.info/2007/03/04/slmgrcommands-and-options-with-windows-vistaproduct-key-activation/

http://www.mydigitallife.info/2007/09/02/windowssoftware-licensing-management-tool-vistaslmgrvbs-usage-hack-guide/

http://www.mydigitallife.info/2008/03/02/how-tocheck-and-verify-vista-activation-status/

http://www.mydigitallife.info/2009/09/24/how-tobackup-and-restore-windows-7-and-server-2008-r2-activation-status-activate-offline-on-reinstall/

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Posted by: bcdalai