6 Steps to the Perfect Computer Room

As more and more businesses rely on computers for the day to day success of their business, businesses are packing more computers in to offices, so that each member of staff has a PC and is truly efficient.

This is excellent, as the businesses are investing in the Technology, but eventually these businesses will discover they computers begin to run slow, then stop! The reason being, most organizations, do not invest in the actual computer room, this is the room dedicated to accommodating the servers and where the network infrastructure is terminated. It’s just the same as having a Formula 1 car and putting standard unleaded fuel in it, it will run but the performance will be no were near what it should be.

An independent survey illustrated this, by poling 50 top UK manufacturers, only 16 had a dedicated Computer Room, that had the relevant security in place to protect their investment, 3 used what you would call a cupboard to house the main server. One in particular stored the server in a room 3 feet x 4 feet, with the monitor balanced on the server while the keyboard was on the floor and this was a leading Global manufacturer worth over $5 billion!

To build the ideal Computer Room, you will need:

1. An access control solution. This can be a simple keypad entry system set a 4 digit access code and press the digits to gain access, or a more complete swipe card system, that logs each entry in to the room and sends an email to the Network administrator when someone tries to gain access when they don’t have the necessary privileges.

2. A false floor or suspended ceiling, either one of these are necessary for both structured cabling that runs the army of computers in the offices and air conditioning for cooling of the servers, to ensure the servers don’t crash.

3. KVM switches, these are the devices that can be used to monitor banks of servers from a single monitor and keyboard. KVM stands for Keyboard, video and mouse. The switches can be daisy chained together so that they can control and manage up to 345 servers per monitor, keyboard and mouse. These switches have a fantastic ROI, as they save money on the monitor, keyboards and mice that the business would purchase, as well as the extra expense of increased air conditioning to reduce the heat from the monitors and most importantly save a huge amount of space.

4. Storage of the servers. There are 2 types of storage, rack mount cabinets for rack mount servers and open LAN racking units that store free standing servers, monitors and keyboards etc. These units can be arranged, so they store 20 free standing servers with 1 monitor, KVM switch and keyboard controlling them, they are modular and more flexible for the ever expanding computer room and most importantly the most cost effective solution.

5. Air conditioning: If you have ever been in a computer room when 40 servers have been running for 2 hours, you will know how much cooling they require and this is paramount!

6. Structured cabling: These are the cables that connect each computer and if you were to trace each cable, they would run back to the computer room and to the server. These are normally classified as Category 5e or Category 6 data cabling and there are many Global manufactures of data cabling solutions.

Undelete Files With Confidence

It happens all of the time because nobody is perfect. It’s so easy for anyone to get distracted and accidentally delete an important file. I know plenty of people who’ve done this, including me. Here is the most important thing to remember: Undeleting files has a very high probability of success, but it depends on whether some other data has overwritten the file you need to recover. Running undelete or getting a recovery expert is the only ways to find out. You may be wondering why you just can’t you just look inside the recycle bin on your desktop and use the search function in the start menu? You can try this technique first to see if it does the trick. If you have already tried this and were unsuccessful, there are two more options: An undelete utility and file recovery services. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, but software is where you want to begin. How to get back your data In order to recover deleted files on your computer, the following conditions must be in place: The lost file must still exist in the directory. The sectors that were used by the deleted file must not be overwritten yet. The file must not have been fragmented. Directory: If you want to recover your files, the deleted file should still be available in the directory. In other words the undelete process requires that the lost data you are recovering not bee overwritten by new or different data created in the same directory. Sector: In addition to the directory, it is important that sectors themselves, where the original, lost file was located, not be overwritten with a new file. Fragmented files: If you really want to succeed with the undelete process, the file you are recovering should not have been fragmented since it was deleted. The sectors of the disk which once held your data must maintain it’s sequential order, undisturbed and not fragmented. You can recover your lost files Files that were accidentally deleted can usually be recovered without problems, but you need to move quickly before another file is saved in its place. If this happens, there is nothing you can do to correct it. Don’t wait a minute longer – take action now and begin downloading and using undelete software, or contact a disk expert. These two methods are the only way to know for sure if your lost data can be recovered. Ken Roberts recovers the simplest situations like undelete to the most severe problems like a dead hard drive. He believes the real underlying problem in data loss however is people don’t know what to do because most of them have never experience data loss. This data recovery article will inform the uniformed to help them make the best educated decision to recover their data.

WINDOWS 7 – Introduction – Download the Beta

Windows 7 is the updated version of the Vista operating system from Microsoft. It was built around feedback from users and has been developed to work with touch screen controls, among other features. However, because Microsoft isn’t providing technical support for the Beta, we strongly recommend that only experienced computer users sign up. How experienced? At minimum, you should be comfortable backing up a computer, formatting a hard drive, burning an ISO file to DVD, and installing an operating system from scratch. You should also be comfortable troubleshooting problems on your own. If you’ve not used beta software before, please read the warning messages and make sure you know what you’re getting into. Note:The Download Now link will take you to Microsoft’s download page where you can register for Windows 7 beta and receive a product test key. Free. No limitations. Windows 2000/XP/Vista; 1 GHz 32-bit or 64-bit processor; 1 GB of system memory; 16 GB of available disk space; Support for DirectX 9 graphics with 128 MB memory (to enable the Aero theme); DVD-R/W Drive; Internet access (to download the Beta and get updates). – Download.com Windows 7 – Over the past few years, you’ve asked us to make some changes to Windows. We listened closely. Now it’s time to share an early look at how we’ve used your feedback. Windows 7 is faster, more reliable, and makes it easier to do what you want. Both the everyday things and the killer “is that really possible?” things. Dig into this site to see what’s coming. – Microsoft Download Windows 7 Beta at Download.com http://www.download.com/TSA/3000-18513_4-10906772.html User reviews of Windows 7 Beta http://www.download.com/TSA/3640-18513_4-10996575.html Windows 7 Technical Support Group http://ca.groups.yahoo.com/group/Win7/ Windows 7 Home Page http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-7/ What’s new in Windows 7 http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-7/whats-new.aspx Windows 7 Screenshots http://windows7news.com/2008/09/20/windows-7-m3-screenshots-galore/ Windows 7 Wiki http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_7 Download the Windows 7 Beta http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-7/beta-download.aspx Comparison of Microsoft Windows versions http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comparison_of_Microsoft_Windows_versions

MS Windows 7 short Tips

How to Create a Windows 7 System Repair Disc – This will show you how to create a Windows 7 system repair disc to use to boot to the system recovery options if you don’t have a Windows installation disc, can’t find your Windows installation disc, or can’t access the recovery options provided by your computer manufacturer.
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/2083-system-repair-disc-create.html

How to Boot to the System Recovery Options in Windows 7 – This will show you how to boot to the System Recovery Options screen to select the Startup Repair, System Restore, Complete PC Restore, Memory Diagnostic Tool, or Command Prompt option to use on Windows 7.
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/668-system-recovery-options.html

How to Boot to the Advanced Boot Options in Windows 7 – This will show you how to boot into the Advanced Boot Options screen to select options to start Windows 7 in advanced troubleshooting modes.
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/666-advanced-boot-options.html

How to Run a Startup Repair in Windows 7 – Startup Repair is a Windows 7 system recovery tool that can fix certain problems, such as missing or damaged system files (ex: MBR boot file), that might prevent Windows from starting correctly. This will show you how to run Startup Repair to allow it to scan your Windows 7 computer for a startup problem and try to fix it so your computer can start correctly.
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/681-startup-repair.html

How to Do a System Restore in Windows 7 – This will show you how to do a System Restore to restore your Windows 7 system files to an earlier point in time. It’s a way to undo system changes to your computer without affecting your personal user files, such as e-mail, documents, or photos.
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/700-system-restore.html

How to Restore a Complete Computer Backup Image in Windows 7 – A Windows 7 Complete PC Backup image contains copies of your programs, system settings, and files. This will show you how to restore this complete system backup to restore the contents of your computer if your hard disk or entire computer ever stops working.
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/675-restore-complete-computer-backup-image.html

How to Run the Memory Diagnostics Tool in Windows 7 – This will show you how to run the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool to test the Random Access Memory (RAM) on your computer for errors in Windows 7. The diagnostic includes a comprehensive set of memory tests. If you are experiencing problems while running Windows, you can use the diagnostic to determine whether the problems are caused by failing hardware, such as RAM or the memory system of your motherboard. For more information, see: Microsoft Online Crash Analysis: Windows Memory Diagnostic Users Guide
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/715-memory-diagnostics-tool.html
Online Crash Analysis: Windows Memory Diagnostic Users Guide
http://oca.microsoft.com/en/windiag.asp

How to Open a Command Prompt at Startup in Windows 7 – This will show you how to open a command prompt at startup from the System Recovery Options or Advanced Boot Options screen in Windows 7.
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/682-command-prompt-startup.html
System Recovery Options
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/668-system-recovery-options.html
Advanced Boot Options
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/666-advanced-boot-options.html
MS-DOS (Microsoft Disk Operating System)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MS-DOS

How to Open a Elevated Command Prompt in Windows 7 – This will show you how to open a elevated command prompt with administrator rights (Run as administrator) instead of the default command prompt without administrator rights in Windows 7.
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/783-elevated-command-prompt.html

Windows 7 Technical Support Yahoo! Group
http://ca.groups.yahoo.com/group/Win7/

UTILITIES – SECURITY & PRIVACY – Actual Keylogger – Encrypted Key Logger

Actual Keylogger is a free key logger that records every keystroke to an encrypted log file with the title of the window that was active at that moment. Actual Keylogger runs hidden in the background and automatically logs all keystrokes. The interface can be password protected. Only the person who knows a special key combination can control Actual Keylogger. You can view the reports as HTML or plain text. Version 2.4 may include Work with big number of records is optimized. The program installation software is changed. Free. No limitations. Windows 95, 98, ME, NT, 2000, XP, 2003 Server. – ActualKeylogger.com

Editor’s review of Actual Keylogger – Who says you can’t run a spy operation on the cheap? Actual Keylogger lets you record every keystroke typed on a computer, and it doesn’t cost a cent. It can’t snap screenshots or automatically e-mail reports, but it’s decently equipped and surprisingly convenient for a freeware program. It’s reasonably stealthy, too. You can conceal its folder, disable its record in the Add/Remove Programs dialog, hide its shortcuts, encrypt its logs and password-protect its settings. Unfortunately, the program process itself is unprotected, and a savvy user could easily spot it and stop it. But for no-cost surveillance of an easy target, Actual Keylogger is hard to beat. – Download.com

Download Actual Keylogger at Download.com
http://download.cnet.com/TSA/3000-2092_4-10414894.html

User reviews of Actual Keylogger
http://download.cnet.com/TSA/3640-2092_4-10541792.html

Actual Keylogger Screenshots
http://www.actualkeylogger.com/screenshots.html

Actual Keylogger Download Website
http://www.actualkeylogger.com/download-free-key-logger.html

Actual Keylogger Website
http://www.actualkeylogger.com

Warning! Back up your data and/or set a restore point before installing new programs or running any cleaners, as deleting necessary files will disable your computer. Infected websites and downloads are more likely now than ever. Before downloading files make sure your virus scanner is updated and always scan a download before installing

Internet Explorere 8 for Windows Vista

Windows Internet Explorer 8 for Windows Vista is faster, easier and safer than ever, and now you can get it with your favorite MSN features included–MSN Toolbar, MSN Homepage, and Search. MSN Home Page has the latest in entertainment, breaking news, videos, and sports highlights. MSN Toolbar brings the best of MSN with you wherever you go online. Live Search helps you find relevant results quickly and easily, using visual suggestions. You’ll also get Microsoft Silverlight and Internet Explorer 8 breakthrough features, Accelerators and Web Slices. Free. No limitations. Windows Vista. – Download.com

Download IE 8 for Vista 32-bit at Download.com
http://download.cnet.com/TSA/3000-2356_4-10910839.html

User reviews of IE 8 for Vista 32-bit
http://download.cnet.com/TSA/3640-2356_4-11013880.html

Download IE 8 for Vista 64-bit at Download.com
http://download.cnet.com/TSA/3000-2356_4-10910840.html

User reviews of IE 8 for Vista 64-bit
http://download.cnet.com/TSA/3640-2356_4-11013882.html

Internet Explorer FAQ
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/internet-explorer/support/faq.aspx

Internet Explorer Features
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/internet-explorer/features/faster.aspx

Internet Explorer Support
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/internet-explorer/support/call-us.aspx

Internet Explorer System Requirements
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/internet-explorer/support/system-requirements.aspx

Internet Explorer Tour
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/internet-explorer/tour/default.aspx

Internet Explorer Videos
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/internet-explorer/videos.aspx

Internet Explorer Website
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/internet-explorer/

Internet Explorer 8 Worldwide Websites
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/internet-explorer/worldwide-sites.aspx

Windows Download Website
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/downloads/default.aspx

Windows Help & How-to
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/help-how-to.aspx

Data Recovery Hard Drive Success

Seeking data recovery hard drive assistance means you’ve tried everything you know to get back your files. At this point, you have a couple of possibilities, hard drive recovery software tools or hard drive data recovery services. And because there is rarely a second chances if something goes wrong, it’s important to follow a few tips when pursuing data recovery hard drive.

A few helpful data recovery hard drive tips

One of the most important rules of data recovery hard drive is to avoid using the computer with the lost data you want back. It may not make sense to you right away, but the reason for this rule is if you continue using the computer once you detect a problem, your chances of retrieving your files decreases. The file system of your computer will randomly execute a data destroy command to overwrite your missing files. If you are planning to use data recovery hard drive tools to get back lost data but are still working on the computer with a faulty drive, you need to stop what you are doing, remember or write this URL on a sheet of paper, and then bring it up on another properly functioning computer.

The second most common recovery hard drive mistake people make is to download restore data software onto the failing drive. This can also cause your data to disappear for good when your computer sends out the command to do so.

Last but not least, another common mistake people make when they are unable to locate their missing file is reboot the computer. This is actually the most common data recovery hard drive error made. As with the previous mistakes, rebooting your system can cause data to become lost for good when restarting the computer.

Why is recovery possible?

When data goes missing on your computer, it is not actually lost, it’s just hiding. The trouble is the index that points to the file’s actual location on the primary hard drive is lost. This is why data recovery is possible when acted upon quickly.

Make your choice

You have two choices to recover data. The fastest and most cost-effective method of recovery is using a software program that you run yourself. There are a variety of products available on the market, so choosing the right one can be a challenge. However, when your drive is failing it’s time to call on the professionals for help.

You may think you need to be able to match the disk data recovery program with the specific situation that caused you to lose your data. But that isn’t true. Even if you have no clue about what happened, you can start with an undelete program and work your way up one level at a time until you find the program that works. If this sounds troublesome, just choose the most powerful data recovery software available the first time around.

Seeking professional assistance

It’s possible that a data recovery hard drive program may not be enough to locate your data. If this happens, your only other option is to seek the services of a data recovery hard drive expert. Data recovery experts are a more expensive choice for hard drive recovery services, but this is the last alternative for hard drive data recovery. While data recovery service may be more compared to using recovery utilities, getting help from a data recovery hard drive specialist will reduce your risk of data loss.

How Much Memory Is Sufficient?

With the way technology is headed, how do you know what size memory is needed for your computer? For example, if you use your computer quite often then chances are that you will need a memory upgrade. One way to determine this would be if your computer is running slower than it used to, or two programs cannot run at the same time without trouble. It is possible that your memory has come close to full capacity. The more programs that you install and run, along with the files and photos that are stored on your computer, the less memory is available for use. This causes a lot of frustration due to computer crashing, slower performance and difficulty installing new programs.

Before buying more memory for your computer, you might consider making some changes. You can put files on a disc and free up that room by deleting the files that are now stored on a disc. Now that space is available for programs or new files that you need. Another option is to go to the start menu on your desktop and click control panel, and click uninstall programs. You can view which programs that you do not use and remove them, this will also free up some memory. You may have a lot of temporary files that are interfering with computer performance and delete these. This will also free up space that you need.

If you don’t want to delete unused programs or burn files to a disc, there are other options such as review how much memory is available for your computer. Another way is find out if all memory slots are in use already, if not then you could buy more memory and install into the slots for memory. For example if your computer has the slots for 2GB of memory but you only have 1GB installed then you can upgrade to gain 50% more memory on your computer. When you are ready to purchase memory it is best to go to a certified computer supply center and ask for the memory upgrade for your specific computer make and model.

If you have basic knowledge of how a computer works then chances are that you can install memory upgrade yourself. Let’s say for example that you want to buy memory to expand to 3 or 4GB, you may want to call a specialist to install or if you just don’t feel comfortable trying to install yourself, it may be best to have a specialist install the memory upgrade.

Another tip would be if you started to do the task yourself, but found that the installation is more involved than you anticipated, it is a good practice to call a specialist. It is better to be safe than sorry, such as you continue to try to install and find that now the computer will not turn on, chances are something was not installed correctly, or possibly you disconnected something that shouldn’t have been disconnected. If in doubt, call a specialist.

Some Tips before you upgrade your PC

There are many types of available computer memory on the market today. It can be confusing to wade through them all when considering an upgrade for your computer. So, before you take the upgrade plunge, consider some of the following information. Then, based upon your own discovery of your usage patterns and the cost of compatible memory for your particular computer as well as the advantages and disadvantages of upgrading, you can make an informed decision.

New and improved is not always the angle you should consider first. Instead, evaluate if the new improvements to the specific type of computer memory you intend to purchase are ones that you need and can utilize. There is no shame in passing on advertisements that don’t offer you any true benefits if you have no use for the memory upgrade to which the advertisement is attached.

If you are considering the memory upgrade on the hopes that it will fix a poorly running computer, please consider having your computer serviced and the root problem with performance repaired prior to upgrading your memory. There is no evidence that upgrading computer memory will solve a performance problem if that problem is not related to a lack of memory. In fact, adding memory when the problem is in the core processor will only increase your difficulties and can possibly add to the poor performance of your computer. It is always best to consider the true nature of a computer problem before trying a do it yourself approach. It is also easier on the pocketbook to correctly assess any problems you may have with your computer. Taking it into a store that services computers for a checkup may be the first step you should take if you are thinking of upgrading memory to ensure that inadequate memory is really the reason for a slow running computer.

As with any type of upgrade, if you find that the advantages to upgrading your computer’s memory are in your best interest, then take the time to back up your files before you begin. There is a chance that data could be lost even if the only thing you are adding is computer memory. The few minutes this takes may be the only safeguard you have if something should go wrong.

Consider also that most memory is added via removing the CPU hood and installing “cards”. This does require that you know something about the inside of a computer. If you are unsure about operating the configurations of wires and other foreign looking occupants beneath the casing of your CPU, consider having the memory installed by a professional. The cost of gaining the security of having someone who knows the ins and outs of computers and installing memory can save you money in the long run as the experience they bring to the table can help your memory upgrade go smoothly.

Hiring a professional computer technician is also the wisest choice if you look at the types of memory from which to choose and scratch your head in confusion. Since there is more than one type of RAM and each type has specific properties that perform specific functions, you need a basic understanding of them and what your computer is able to handle in terms of compatibility.

As with any decision and purchase, weigh your options and then make your decision. Whether you hire a professional technician or attempt a do it yourself method, the time you spent researching the decision is ultimately the best thing for you and your computer.

Should need More Wireless on Your Laptop?

Who can argue with the portability of a laptop computer compared to a desktop computer, and then add the ability to go wireless? Who wouldn’t go for that. Having a wireless laptop computer allows you to get things done just about anywhere, it is just a continuation of the de-centralization of the office place. There are a lot of different kinds of wireless technologies out there. The different technologies all do different things, and all cost different amounts. When you’re going to look into wireless laptops, here is some of the things to consider.

New computers are all coming with built in WiFi. Because of this standard, for the average user a new computer is all you need to have your wireless capabilities. The new computers have built in wi-fi that enables it to connect to the internet in a flash without a modem or NIC cards. A wireless laptop when powered up will search on its own for connectivity. This wireless capability allows you to get online at certain Internet capable hotspots in different areas.

There are however, other types of access that you can add on to your laptop.

Mobile broadband offers high speed data connectivity. Mobile broadband does come at a price premium. Typically, you need to sign up with a provider in much the same way that you sign up for a cellular service. Most of the people that you can get your cell service from offer broadband wireless capability. And, in much the same way that you sign up with a contract you do the same thing with your wireless broadband. Price ranges can vary, but typically you sign up for a year contract and pay monthly anywhere from 50 to 80 bucks a month. Depending on your area of this can be higher. The real benefit is that you are just about getting regular Internet service. The upload and download speeds are going to be faster, and this kind of connection is more secure.

With mobile broadband, you can also download larger email attachments and download complex files. The mobile broadband technology is more powerful and 10 times faster than the dial up technology that gives internet connection through your computer.

The wireless laptop computers with wi-fi connectivity allow you dual band connectivity at a public space or in the office to a local area network. The wireless cards can communicate with access points or routers. It acts like devices that send data back and forth with an antenna over the airwaves. What this means is that as long as there is a wireless router in the area, and you have access, you can connect to a local area network, or your company’s network and work on that network in real time. If you are using public access, you do need to be aware that you expose yourself to the potential that someone may hack into your computer. It is a good idea to install and use some kind of firewall protection.

There are also wireless laptops that have Bluetooth to enhance the rate of data through wireless technology. This Bluetooth technology would allow you to transfer the music and video files and also documents between your laptops and other personal devices. The introduction of Bluetooth is a new phase in the laptop world. It is very common to see a Bluetooth headset in your cell phones. Bluetooth integrating in the laptop is starting a new era in laptops. Keep in mind that your computer needs to be Bluetooth capable to utilize the Bluetooth technology. Many computers are coming standard with Bluetooth technology, but it is important to check.

Ultimately, the standard WiFi capability that a laptop comes with is plenty for the average user. With that capability you can jump onto hotspots, and if you have a wireless router in your home, you can tap into your high-speed Internet connection. For those that are using a computer for business, the broadband mobile card is a technology you may want to look into. Just make sure that the card will fit into your USB ports, or your laptop is enabled with the broadband card slot.