Change Windows Explorer's Default Open At The Start Menu

When opening Windows Explorer in Windows XP, it takes a long time to open because the operating system reads through the listings of so many files in the default directories. It doesn't have to take so long if you change the default to open in a different directory, say the C:\Work directory. To change the default, set the target for a Windows shortcut to:

%SystemRoot%\Explorer.exe /n,/e,C:\Work

Extend Vista's Activation Period

According to Brian Livingston, the Windows expert, Vista's 30-day activation can be extended up to three times. Read his article, "Extend Vista's 30-day activation deadline to 120 days."

Don't Pay Full Price For Vista Upgrade

If you plan to either upgrade to Vista or install a copy of Vista on a new PC, read Brian Livingston's (the Windows expert) advice: "Get Vista upgrade, never pay full price."

I gotta think that heads were rolling when a senior manager found out and asked, "You guys let it out the door like that?!!"

"Sorry boss. We forgot to comment out the code that let us test installs on any computer."

"AAARRRGH!!!"

20 Most Popular Windows Open Source Applications for 2006

OpenSourceWindows.org has put out the list of the 20 most popular Windows Open Source applications for 2006, but someone named Carol went one better. She listed all of the portable equivalents of these applications, so we can download them and put them on our PDA's and cell phones. She also provided links to Open Source software for the Mac and for Linux, just in case Windows isn't your cup 'o tea. All of these applications are available as free downloads, so load up the truck.

Tips For Windows Vista

Just like earlier versions of Windows, Vista allows you to tweak its default settings to get better functionality and increased productivity when you need it. Read Preston Gralla's article, "Five Ways to Bend Windows Vista to Your Will," to find out how to tune Vista on your PC.

Best Time-Saving Tips For Vista

Read Robert Cowart's and Brian Knittel's article, "Top 16 Vista Time-Saving Tips," to help bring yourself up to speed on the new Vista operating system. Fortunately, these tips work on earlier versions of Windows, so they can be applied to other operating systems.