Windows Speedups / XP-ify Vista / Download YouTube / Mini Laptops
In today's TOURBUS, you'll find out how to speed up your Windows-based computer -- I've got tips for both
Vista and XP. And if you're stuck with Vista, but still in love with XP, I've got some cosmetic surgery tips
that will make you happy. You'll also learn the secrets of downloading YouTube videos, and whether a mini
laptop is the right choice for you. Read on!
HOW TO SPEED UP WINDOWS VISTA
A TOURBUS reader asked: "I upgraded to Windows Vista on my desktop PC, and instead of speeding up, it seems to run slower than ever. Do you have any tips or tweaks to make Vista run faster?"
This reader is not alone in wanting to squeeze more speed out of Windows Vista. There is perhaps no more resounding criticism of Vista than about its performance. Vista has been called a bloated operating system, slowing down machines that ran fine with Windows XP. Fortunately, there are some things you can do that will make Vista run significantly faster. Learn how to tweak your settings for better performance, eliminate unnecessary software and system services, turn off the eye candy and more.
Click the link below to get all my tips and tricks to get maximum performance out of your Vista computer.
Another reader concerned about performance asked: "My Windows startup seems to be taking a long time, and once it finally stops churning, everything seems to run slower than it used to. Can you suggest any maintenance tips to make Windows XP start and run faster?"
I have this theory that sludge builds up inside a computer over time, much like an automobile engine. After a while, it doesn't start right up like when it was new, it stalls unexpectedly, and performance is sluggish on the (information) highway. So is there something like engine cleaner you can pour into your personal computer to restore that "like new" performance? Actually, yes!
Here's my special recipe to clean that icky goo out of your computer's pipes, so Windows will start quicker, run more reliably, and go faster on the info-superhighway.
Have you upgraded to Vista and found yourself yearning for the good old XP days? One reader asked me: "I just got Windows Vista, after using XP for many years. And frankly, I'm not crazy about the Vista look and feel... are there some tweaks I can use to make Vista look more like XP?"
Maybe it's that new transparent user interface, the fact that Vista feels a little sluggish on your computer, or things just aren't where they used to be. Whatever the reasons for wanting the XP look and feel, here are my suggestions to help you turn Vista into something that resembles your beloved Windows XP.
Find out how to change your Vista desktop into an XP clone, get back all those missing icons, and disable some Vista features that many find annoying. Read on...
So you found the coolest video on YouTube, and you want to download it to your computer. It's true, YouTube doesn't make it easy to download a video from their site.
But fortunately, there are many simple ways to download videos from YouTube, so you can view them offline, burn a video DVD, embed them in a presentation, or do your own video mixing. There's no obvious way on the YouTube site, but there are some easy ways to download a YouTube video to your hard drive.
Here's how to download, convert and view those YouTube videos...
Are you thinking about buying one of those new mini-laptops for a student, or maybe for business travel? Recently computer vendors have been coming out with a new breed of laptop... The mini models usually weigh in at about 2 pounds and are about the size of a trade paperback. They are easier to carry around and can look pretty slick. But can they do everything that the larger laptops do?
Yes, they're cheaper... but are they worth the price? Find out if a mini can replace your standard laptop, what features are typically lacking on the minis, and if they're the right choice for you or your child. Get the scoop, along with my mini-reviews of five new mini-Laptops...
Send a Free Fax Learn how to send and receive faxes for free, using online fax services.
Make Windows Run Faster Here's my special recipe to clean that icky goo out of your computer's pipes, so Windows will start quicker, run more reliably, and go faster on the info-superhighway.
Free Calls With Skype Skype is a software package that lets you make free calls to almost anyone, anywhere in the world. Here's how to get started...
Free Internet Security Software Staying safe on the Internet doesn't have to cost big bucks. Here are my recommendations for the best FREE anti-virus, anti-spyware, and popup blocker software.
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