Information Tech.

Windows To The Web: Choosing A Browser

December 13, 2010 By admin Leave a Comment

WINDOWS TO THE WEB: CHOOSING A BROWSER

A web browser is an application that enables you to view web content. Like a window, the browser alters your online experience by framing web pages and other media. A poorly-constructed browser can affect performance negatively by exposing your system to harmful viruses, over-utilizing resources such as memory and graphics or cluttering your display. However, there are a number of browsers that boost browsing speed, offer customizable display and content options and include anti-spyware and pop-up blocking tools.

Internet Explorer (IE)
Internet explorer is a web browser that has been produced by Microsoft since 1995. Over 15 years and nine major remodels, Internet explorer has come to be the staple browser for PC users. It is loaded and automatically configured on all new Windows PCs. IE includes build in parental controls, pop-up blocker and useful add-ons which increase the functionality of other Windows programs such as MS Office. [www.microsoft.com/windows/internet-explorer/default.aspx]

Firefox
Firefox is one of the most popular downloadable browsers out to date. Produced by Mozilla, a multi-national open-source software project, Firefox is available as freeware. This means it is free to download, use and expand. There are many independent programmers (professional and amateur) that develop Firefox add-ons. These useful extensions allow you to customize your browser and enhance the functionality of specific sites such as Facebook and YouTube. All of the standard browser security features are built-in. [http://www.mozilla.com/en-US/firefox/personal.html]

Chrome
Though slow to start, Google has plowed its way into every corner of the tech market. From cell phones to music, search engines to web 2.0 developments, no market is complete without a viable Google-based alternative. Google Chrome is a stream-lined browser designed to work with the other components of the Google productivity suite. Users enjoy a fully-customizable browsing session with online collaboration capabilities–all of which can be saved to your Google account and accessed from any web-enabled device. How cool is that? [www.google.com/chrome]

Filed Under: Information Tech., Technology Tagged With: Google, Google Chrome, Web browser

Satellite Radio and Other Vehicle Options can Lead to Distracted Driving

December 11, 2010 By admin Leave a Comment

Image via Wikipedia

If you own a vehicle that has satellite radio, a navigation system, a DVD player, or other kinds of things, it’s possible that they could distract you. Of course, a standard radio, or even a conversation with a passenger could distract you, too. The more things you have in your car, though, the more likely you are to be distracted by one or more of them. You shouldn’t have to drive all alone in silence, but it’s important that you’re careful. Satellite and networking capabilities have increased so much today that it’s not surprising that people have more distractions then they used to. It’s up to them to manage those distractions the right way.

To avoid distracted driving and other problems that come up when people overuse technology, be aware of your surroundings. Even if you’re not driving, too much technology can distract you from your duties at work or at home. That can lead to problems with your boss, your kids, and your spouse. That doesn’t mean that satellite and network communications aren’t good or that they should be avoided. They provide a lot of joy and they’re also helpful to many businesses and households in a multitude of ways. The key is to use them wisely.

Set a time limit for things like Internet use or for how often you text or do other technology-related things. Do the same for other people in your household. That way you aren’t so distracted, and you can also appreciate and enjoy the technology more when you do use it. You won’t get overwhelmed with it or feel like it’s controlling your life, and you can use it the way it was intended – as something that can help you and bring you enjoyment.

Filed Under: Bluetooth, General, Information Tech. Tagged With: Business, Radio, Satellite, Satellite radio, Sirius XM Radio, Slaight Communications, Technology, XM Satellite Radio

Big Brother Gets Involved With Internet Privacy

December 10, 2010 By admin Leave a Comment

: Image by Getty Images via @daylife

Due to complaints from consumer advocacy groups, the Obama administration has created a subcommittee to discuss regulations for privacy issues relating to the Internet. The subcommittee will utilize expertise from individuals with various backgrounds in legislative and governmental issues and will focus on finding ways to improve the privacy of Internet users.

Currently, phishing for information remains one of the biggest challenges for Internet users, and it affects people in a variety of ways, including on social sites, through emails, and through advertisements. Phishing works by collecting private information from user accounts. This information can include a person full name, physical address, email address, phone number, and credit card number. In some cases, phishing even captures social security numbers.

Other complaints center around a number of privacy breeches generated by the Internet. One of Google’s programs, Street view, was collecting information from residential wireless networks. A recent study found thousands of privacy violations with Facebook, which reported a third-party application was snatching user information from account users.

The subcommittee will act to try to find a way to stop these violations from occurring. Christopher Schroeder from the Justice Department and Cameron Kerry from the Commerce Department will lead the subcommittee. Currently, two bills are before the House. They propose making it voluntary for websites to collect private information rather than mandatory. This would at least shift the responsibility to users rather than websites.

Part of the issue will also stem on finding a balance between the needs of users and the needs of businesses. For example, Amazon and other leading websites use information from users to help target ads. This tends to generate more revenue from the ads because consumers are often more attracted to local ads than national ones.

The impact this new subcommittee will have on Internet privacy is unknown at this point in time, but for now, many consider this a step in the right direction.

Filed Under: Information Tech. Tagged With: Cameron Kerry, Christopher H. Schroeder, Google, Internaut, Obama administration, Privacy, United States Department of Commerce, United States Department of Justice

The Networking Experience: Social Media Software

December 9, 2010 By admin Leave a Comment

: Image by Danny Choo via Flickr

It was meant to be an idle search, a rare waste of hours, as your duties as a parent leave you with little time for indulgences. Too often you must ignore all thrills, dedicating yourself instead to the needs of your family. The notion of simply scrolling through networking sites is unfamiliar (but no less wanted), but suddenly you find yourself doing just that. Blogs are read. Message boards are examined. And, when a whim leads you finally to seek out an old acquaintance, you are amazed by what you find: post after post is filled to their name. Your friend is online.

And you begin to realize what this can mean.

The concept of social networking is one too often dominated by youth. Individuals believe it to be only for teens and their obsessions, the trade of music and secret jokes. But this idea can have far greater implications, and stay at home mothers should understand just how those implications can be applied to them.

There are endless ways to connect online. The use of social media software (such as networking websites and communities) allow users to seek each other out, discovering shared interests and experiences. Past friends can reunite, separated families can meet again, and strangers can become close companions with hobbies bonding even the most disparate of personalities.

This is invaluable for mothers who have little time to leave their homes, who must instead stay near their children. Obligations can’t be refused. Affection can’t be denied. Their schedule is simply too crowded for outside adventures, but this does not include the ones found within a computer. A monitor can become a much needed gateway.

Gaining relationships is essential for all individuals. Social media simply makes it easy. Through the tap of a keyboard the world can be revealed, and parents will then discover easy conversations and far easier rewards.

Filed Under: Information Tech., Internet, Satellite Tagged With: Facebook, LinkedIn, Social media, Social network service, Twitter

Deluxe Entertainment Group to Incorporate Satellite Plans

December 6, 2010 By admin Leave a Comment

: Image via Wikipedia

As a person with experience in satellites, Adrian McCarten will be heading the helm for Deluxe Australia as it works to incorporate a satellite plan. McCarten will work as the Digital Content Distribution Executive for Deluxe Australia, which is a part of the Deluxe Entertainment Service Group, Inc. MacAndrews & Forbes Holdings Inc. owns the group, which provides services for the entertainment industry and technologies to a variety of international clients. Deluxe Group works with major Hollywood Studios and offers motion picture film processing, DVD compression, EFILM digital intermediates, digital asset management, printing and distribution, digital cinema services, and other aspects to help the entertainment industry do its job.

McCarten will be leading a team to add satellite plans to the company’s portfolio. The goal is to prepare for theaters in Australia and Asia that will be using digitally equipped theaters and satellite services. The division McCarten joins already offers a variety of services, including mastering, reversioning, replication, hard-drive distribution, and Digital Cinema Packaging (DCP). The management aspects will work with Hollywood studio customers in the Asia Pacific, Australia, and New Zealand. McCarten will maintain operations from Sydney, Australia.

Under the current plan for the satellites, Deluxe will use the system to send special programs to the theaters equipped with digital receivers and equipment. These programs can include live events, special programs, traditional movies, 3D feature films, or other content delivered for entertainment purposes.

This new initiative is part of Deluxe Entertainment Services Group’s plan to build a satellite network for theaters in several countries, including Canada and the U.S. The company also entered an agreement with Echostar Corporation to help accomplish this goal. Deluxe London has a similar agreement with Argiva to cover the European market.

The global reach for this project is another reason why Deluxe went with McCarten to lead the project—he has a global network specific to satellites that the company hopes to utilize.

Filed Under: Information Tech. Tagged With: Asia Pacific, Australia, Digital cinema, DVD, EchoStar, EFilm, Film, Satellite

Google’s Lack of Internet Privacy Riles British Parliament

November 15, 2010 By admin Leave a Comment

: Image via CrunchBase

People love new apps, and as soon as one pops up, they typically download it as fast as possible just to give it a try. Many new programs are fun, while others are tools. Regardless of where you classify Google’s Street Views, there’s one thing almost everybody agrees on. The program has a fatal glitch that violates an individual’s right to privacy.

Many in the U.S. are familiar with this debate, especially as Obama formed a new subcommittee to tackle the difficult issue. In the U.S. the matter hinges on the rights of the manufacturer or website versus the rights of the individuals. This may not be the case in Britain, where the parliament is meeting to consider an Internet bill that will protect its citizens.

The issue with Google’s Street Views occurred when the program accidentally started collecting information it should have left alone. A glitch in the program allowed it to collect data from personal Wi-Fi devices in people’s homes, transporting private information along with its street views.

With the current realization of just how easy it can be to violate a person’s privacy using the Internet, the parliament will need to determine how to handle the situation. Some propose creating a society to oversee Internet Privacy, thereby taking the burden away from parliament to issue a state action for every issue. This society would work in a similar fashion to the British Law Society. Others believe self-regulation would be a mistake as it allows too much room for error. After all, once information gets out on the Internet, it can be impossible to recover.

Case in point, Google’s little glitch resulted in email accounts, passwords, and URLs stored on unencrypted Wi-Fi devices. Imagine all that information in the hands of cyber criminals rather than a website company. That’s not a pleasant thought.

Filed Under: Information Tech. Tagged With: Google, Google Street View, Privacy, Privacy law, Security, Uniform Resource Locator, United States, Wi-Fi

Harris to Continue With Air Force Satellite Program

November 13, 2010 By admin Leave a Comment

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Harris Corporation will continue to offer both maintenance and operational support to the Air Force for its Network and Space Operations and Maintenance Program. The extension brings Harris a $64 million option for its third year with the program. For those who want to keep track, that amounts to over $200 million that Harris has earned as a result of its contract for the program.

The company mainly works to support the Air Force’s satellite control program, specifically the 50th Space Wing’s program, at locations throughout the world. Schriever Air Force Base, located near Colorado Springs, Colorado, hosts the AFSCN program that carries out the launch, operation, and controls of space programs under the management of Defense Department. It also maintains satellites for the program. These programs directly impact national security.

As part of Harris’s job, the company will work with teams from different organizations, including Avaya Government Solutions, Lockheed Martin Information Technology, ASRC Aerospace, Gunther Douglas, Faith Enterprises Inc., and Arctic Slope World Services. Together the Harris team will work with the Satellite Control Network to manage control centers, track worldwide stations, and conduct tests. These tests will ensure facilities maintain the proper communication levels with satellites in orbit and stationed around the world.

By taking such an active role, the government can ensure the process remains smooth and operational. Under the original contract, Harris still has three one-year options left. The initial agreement provided for a six-month base followed by one-year options until 2014. If Harris keeps the contract for the entire time, it will see a value of $416.

Based on the renewal of the option, the U.S. can rest assured that Harris has proven to be competent in handling this aspect of national security. The one-year options also help to ensure the company will continue to do its job, because its future work depends on it.

Filed Under: Information Tech. Tagged With: 50th Space Wing, ASRC Aerospace Corporation, Avaya Government Solutions, Harris Corporation, Lockheed Martin Information Technology, National security, Schriever Air Force Base, Vandenberg Air Force Base

How to Download Software Safely

September 10, 2010 By admin Leave a Comment

When it comes to the Internet people’s biggest fear is safety. This is especially true when it comes to downloading software online. It is a fact that many computers become infected when executable files are downloaded. However, it is possible to download software easily and safely.

The first step is to identify sites that are known to be safe when it comes to downloading software. Looking for reviews of safe download sites is a good place to start. Getting information from others who frequently download software is also helpful.

There are various types of software that can be downloaded from the Internet. Some are free, while others are shareware and quite a few have to be purchased. They all have their advantages and disadvantages. Deciding on which site to download from is dependent on your needs and the type of software wanted.

Popular software that is downloaded includes games and programs that can be tweaked for use with other programs. With the advent of the Smartphone, many applications are now being downloaded for these high-tech devices.

Regardless of the purpose, at some time or the other the need to download software arises. It may be as simple as upgrading a program, getting a trial version of an application to review. Knowing where and how to do so safely should be the number one priority.

Thankfully, there are websites dedicated solely to reviewing software and software download sites. When it comes to software download, it is never advisable to download from sites that you are not sure about. If there is any doubt about the safety of downloading from a site, follow your guts feeling. It is always better to be safe than sorry when it come to PC safety.

Filed Under: Information Tech., Internet Tagged With: Personal computer, Spyware, Uploading and downloading

Tips for Satellite Self-Installation

August 19, 2010 By admin Leave a Comment

: Image via Wikipedia

So, you’ve decided that you want to try to install your satellite internet yourself. This is an admirable task, and certainly will be a challenge for you, unless you’re a trained and licensed technician. Whether you were looking for an interesting hardware project to spend your day on, or simply wanted to save some money on installation, there are a few tips that you can follow in order to make your life easier:

Check your coordinates. Okay, now check them again. Done? Okay, one more time.

Your internet speed is going to rely completely on the coordinates that you’re using, and how accurately you configure them. The coordinates indicate an appropriate line of sight between the receiver and the orbiting satellite itself. A poor coordinate configuration will lead to little or no internet connectivity. If you don’t have coordinates, then you will want to contact your internet service provider in order to find them. Save this information in case you need to adjust it later.

Don’t get set on one installation location.

Sometimes trying to install the satellite receiver in the first place that seems convenient is a less than good idea. Sometimes it’s like trying to fit a square block through a triangle hole. Check out multiple potential areas for installation within your immediate location in order to find the right one for you. Be aware of natural features that may get in the way of connection, including how easily animals could topple the receiver itself.

Prepare your tools beforehand.

This isn’t a project for the handy person who only have a hammer in their belt pouch. You’re going to need drill bits of different sizes, a screw driver, and pliers at the ready.

Get educated on installation.

If your internet provider didn’t send you a pamphlet or installation guide, track one down. Once you have a guide, be sure to read it. Incorrectly connecting plugs, cables, or antenna will do more than make the installation more difficult. It can completely destroy your costly receiver equipment.

Filed Under: Information Tech., Satellite, Wireless Technology Tagged With: Antenna (radio), Cable, Internet service provider, Satellite

What Can and Can’t Satellite Do?

August 18, 2010 By admin Leave a Comment

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It is undeniable that Satellite internet is faster than dial-up in essentially every way. Satellite is also more accessible in remote locations, including in rural portions of the world that have no chance of DSL or Broadband deals, and even on RVs. However, it is also undeniable that not every internet based utility will work appropriately with Satellite. So, what does work on Satellite, and what doesn’t?

Things that Don’t Work

Satellite internet has a one word problem. “Latency.” Gamers are likely to know this term by the slang version, “lag.” This latency is the delay between the receiver requesting data and the satellite sending it down, across those twenty-three thousand miles between the two. The delay is really very minor, ranging from about 520 milliseconds to 840 milliseconds. In other words, it never even reaches a full second of delay. However, even this fraction of a second prevent certain activities.

Voice chatting and video chatting programs simply won’t work in this way, since the delay causes overlap issues that prevent the real time processing from functioning. Any real time program that requires real time internet access to function will be similarly hindered. Video games often fall into this category, especially if it is a multi player shooter, or any other game which requires real time response. Certain video games, such as MMORPGs, can be played with some effectiveness, although certain areas of the game will become either frustrating or impossible.

Things that Work

So, latency provides a major issue, but what happens outside the latency? Once the connection is established and the data is sent, the internet speed is comparable to broadband. This means that page load times will be low, but extended by the fraction of a second delay mentioned above, and that long downloads will be completed just as fast as they would be on broadband. Anything that doesn’t require a real time connection will function just fine, with that small delay being the only disadvantage of satellite when compared to broadband.

Filed Under: Information Tech., Internet, Satellite, Wireless Technology Tagged With: Dial-up Internet access, Digital Subscriber Line, Satellite Internet access