Add On Software, Uninstall a Program

It never ceases to amaze me how many applications or software packages end up on our laptops or PCs. I have provided various levels of support and systems administration within business environments. That is because people (who have proper Administrator rights) frequently get programs installed that they do not use. In fact they do not remember installing the software at all because this software was added on as part of another package.
For example, Java and Instant Messenger programs frequently come with add ons included (toolbars, McAfee Security Scans etc etc). How does the software get added on? Well, you know how we all whiz through software installs? VERY RAPIDLY. As a result, there is usually a check mark for an add on that gets missed while we are installing something else. These programs are usually not harmful (USUALLY) but are very annoying to many people.
To remove, for Vista and later, just type in “Programs” in the “Start Search”, from the lowest left point on your screen(Start menu). Then “Programs and Features” will appear in the list on the menu. Open it and uninstall any software not in use.

Microsoft Office 2010 to be FREE?!

Yes, it is true. The spanking new version of Office 2010 will be free, and available online. In other words, it will compete (keep up with?) Google Apps, the other ONLINE office package.
So, instead of purchasing a standard DVD software package with license key, you can now sign up online for access to a web site called “SkyDrive
As MS Office has been the leading software (in sales and other realms) for years now, this will indeed be a force to reckon with in the years to come.
Here is the summary:

“How to begin using your Office Web Apps (Technical Preview) on Windows LiveFollow these instructions to successfully begin using Office Web Apps.
1. Open an existing document or create a new one in Word, Excel, or PowerPoint 2010 Beta on your PC.

2. Click File to open Backstage, a full-window file menu that gives you easy access to functions such as saving, printing, and sharing.

3. Click Share and then Save to SkyDrive (The free online storage service from Windows Live).

4. In Backstage, click Sign in. You will be prompted to enter your Windows Live ID, or create a Windows Live account. If you use Hotmail, Messenger, or Xbox Live, you already have a Windows Live ID.

5. Select from the list of SkyDrive folders that is displayed and then click Save As.

6. In the dialog box that appears, type a file name and then click Save. Click File, and then click Close.

7. Visit http://skydrive.live.com. If prompted, enter your Windows live ID and password and click Sign in.

8. Select the folder where you saved your document. Click the file and then select View.

9. You will be prompted to read and accept the terms of use. When you click Accept, you will be able to view, edit, and share your document online. To access all of your documents saved online, just log in at http://skydrive.live.com

To access all of your documents saved online, just log in at http://skydrive.live.com”

Learn more about Office 2010 (Beta)

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Free Security Tools from Microsoft

Microsoft Security Essentials are available for Vista. Why not download and install them? After all they are free. The download is only 6 Megabytes and is easy to install. Even if you have another antivirus application, this is another tool in the fight against spyware and malware, and yes, viruses.

“Microsoft Security Essentials provides real-time protection for your home PC that guards against viruses, spyware, and other malicious software.

Microsoft Security Essentials is a free download from Microsoft that is simple to install, easy to use, and always kept up to date so you can be assured your PC is protected by the latest technology. It’s easy to tell if your PC is secure — when you’re green, you’re good. It’s that simple.

Microsoft Security Essentials runs quietly and efficiently in the background so that you are free to use your Windows-based PC the way you want—without interruptions or long computer wait times.”

Get the Security Tools here!

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