July 2006

Windows Genuine Advantage, the tool that checks to see if your Microsoft Windows software license is a legal copy, has been causing problems. Some people are getting false messages that their Windows XP is pirated, even on newly purchased computers. It is also creating problems with the update process, in some cases not installing properly and preventing any further updates.
http://forums.microsoft.com/Genuine/ShowForum.aspx?ForumID=442&SiteID=25

Microsoft Windows defender (formerly Microsoft Antispyware) will not update unless auto-update is on.  I now recommend leaving auto-update on for most workstation users.

There are already tools available to exploit the flaws that are patched in last month’s windows critical updates.  Keep your computers patched.

There is another update to Acrobat reader. The current version is 7.08.

Some newer flash drives use “U3 Technology”. These drives have preinstalled read only data that emulates a CD-ROM drive. Because CD Autoplay is enabled by default, it automatically installs software when plugged into any XP computer.  www.u3.com

Windows Live Messenger has been released. It replaces Instant Messenger, and adds features for IP phone calls. Microsoft is working toward integrating IP Telephony into their product line.
http://get.live.com/messenger/overview
Microsoft Unified Communications strategy: www.microsoft.com/uc/default.mspx

Quickbooks offers a free newsletter full of good tips. Although aimed at accountants, many business owners and company accounting staff can benefit from their tips and notifications of Quickbooks updates. http://accountant.intuit.com/member_programs/proconnection/index.aspx
The recent issue covers QB 2006 Release 7, an important update.
http://www.quickbooks.com/support/faqs/docs/w_15r7notes.html

Some great business webinars: http://main.livemeeting.com/demos/web_seminar_archive.cfm Includes Steven Covey, Tom Peters, Scott Blanchard, Zig Ziglar, Jack Canfield, Donald Trump, many others.

Daniel Ruiz is leaving us to take a job with the IT department at Tulare County. We wish him well in his new position. Gabe Macias will be taking over his work for clients.

Tim Torian

Torian, Group, Inc.

http://www.toriangroup.com