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Last week I promised I would talk about what young people are learning in school about computers, both high school and college.

I’m going to have to postpone this part of the story because my research is not done yet.  Two instructors that are supplying me with information would rather meet with me then answer my question via email because there is so much to share.

I will have the rest of the story soon.

So, in this space, instead of a commentary by me, there will be nothing.

WHAT?  NOTHING?

Yes.  It seems, at this very moment, I am experiencing a brain spasm and cannot think of anything I want to talk about. 

Usually, you can’t shut me up.  Hmmmm… maybe I’m coming down with something.
 

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The new version of Internet Explorer, version 9, will be released to the public sometime in early 2011.  It is still in beta.

However, tests that have been contracted for by Microsoft have shown that it will be the safest browser ever.

It is reported that IE9 can block 99% of malware because of a new feature called “SmartScreen Application Reputation”.  It is a complicated algorithm to rank the possibility that a download is legitimate software when you click on a link or something tries to install without your knowledge.

Quoting a Computerworld story” Application Reputation, or "App Rep," uses a file's hash -- which identifies the file contents -- and its digital certificate to determine whether it's a known application with an established reputation. For example, "firefox.exe" would be labeled a legitimate download with a known history and reputation. If the App Rep algorithm ranks the file as unknown -- perhaps because the hash value hasn't been seen before -- IE9 throws up a warning when users try to run or save the file.”

I am currently using the beta of IE9 on my laptop.  So far, I like it.  It’s faster and the interface is much cleaner.  It kind of looks like Google Chrome.

Here is hoping IE9 is all that we are being told about it.

Open Mic Night - Ask Any Question About Your Computer - Thursday - December 16, 2010

Any question about any Windows problems you might be having.  Includes Windows versions XP, Vista, and Windows 7.

I will do my best to demonstrate, on screen, the answer to your question.

So if that nagging little problem or question needs an answer, join Techthursday (membership is free), and then purchase a seat at http://techthursday.com

Glenn Asks:

Hi, Mike!

I always listen to you on Website Wednesday and absolutely love your program.  I will be getting my first iMac early next year having come from a Windows XP system which I currently operate. 

Do you think it is mecessary to purchase the Intego anti virus protection for the iMac since all my friends are still using Windows?  Do you recommend I purchase Intego's Mac/Windows Duo Protection? 

I'd really appreciate your help, Mike!  You're the BEST!!! Have a great holiday!

(edited for clarity)

Answer:

This is a very interesting question.  It always brings a heated conversation between Nic and I.

Here are my thoughts.

Even though the malware and viruses that infect Windows will not infect an Apple computer, that does not mean that the malware cannot reside in a dormant state on the Mac.

What can happen is that there is a possiblility of spreading that dormant malware to the people you exchange email with who are using Windows.

Because many disagree that this can happen,  the security industry has said it can.  That is why several companies make an anti-virus for the Mac, including Intego, Norton, McAfee, and Trend Micro.

Should you get the combo version?  Hmmm... Are you going to be running Windows either on another computer you own or on you Mac?  If so, then yes, get the combo.

New PC De-Crapification

• Remove Trialware
• Remove System Hogging Software
• Replace Trial Antivirus If Requested
• Quick Tune-Up
• Quick Optimization
• Security Check-Up
• Show you some Windows 7 Tips and Tricks

Are you or someone in the family getting a new computer for Christmas? Did you know that it comes with tons of trialware and other crap that the manufacturer loads on there and can slow down or effect your machine in other ways?

If you would like to have that all removed as well as a quick tune up and optimization, I will be offering a new remote PC De-Crapification Service for the holidays until January 31, 2011.

The fee will be $49.95 and will take 2 hours or less.

To book an appointment, go to my Services page and click the Book Now button.

Bypass the Recycle Bin  When Deleting File(s)

To bypass the Recycle Bin on a one-time basis, when you are deleting a file (or a group of selected files):

Press and hold down the shift-key while you press the del-key . You receive the following confirmation-request message:

Are you sure you want to send <filename> to the Recycle Bin?

Click on Yes or OK.