VistaSphere

I love a condiment with booze in it

2008-09-15T14:09:00.002-05:00

Vista Gets Googled

2007-06-20T16:17:00.000-05:00

Ahh, the good ol' antitrust word is back beckoning at Bill Gates' door. Microsoft caved to Department of Justice muscle Tuesday and agreed to let Google in it's Windows Vista desktop search feature. Presently, Vista only allows Microsoft's own search engine to power desktop search. The Department of Justice gave their ruling saying Microsoft must modify Vista so other search engine options are available to end-users. Though not a perfect solution by any means, apparently both parties agreed to its terms.

Advance Notice for Patch Tuesday

2007-06-09T13:07:00.000-05:00

6 security bulletins are due out on Patch Tuesday, June 12, 2007. 4 are considered critical dealing with fixing remote code vulnerabilities. A preview of the details of the upcoming bulletin can be seen here.

And on that note, beware of fake email notices claiming to be from Microsoft. As with everything Microsoft, scammers are sending out the notices in an effort to install malicious software on unsuspecting victims. Of course, this is not a new technique, but apparently it works, so it's still around. If you receive a suspicious email, always remember to check the Microsoft security bulletin website before clicking on that link in your email.

It's Official

2007-06-09T12:38:00.000-05:00

Microsoft has finally acknowledged the existence of Service Pack 1 (SP1) currently in Beta. They even have a planned release date, the latter half of 2007. (I know that narrows it down for you, as you patiently wait to update your system.) As previously discussed here, Microsoft had been keeping quiet about any future updates. But now it's official, even if it is still in beta.

Are you ready for Vista?

2007-06-08T15:26:00.001-05:00

Not sure if you and your computer are ready for the Vista experience? Well, check out Microsoft Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor. This utility will examine your system and deliver a report of your system and any compatibility issues. It can even recommend which version of Vista would be best for your system. Happy Upgrading!

Bill Finally Graduates

2007-06-08T15:17:00.000-05:00

Thirty two years after Bill Gates dropped out of Harvard to run his little software startup (you may have heard of it, Microsoft), he finally graduates from Harvard. Bill recieved his honorary doctrate Thursday.

Microsoft Vista Service Pack 1

2007-05-22T17:51:00.000-05:00

Microsoft Vista Service Pack 1, codename Fiji, really exists. It's true. And it might deliver sooner than you think. Initially, Microsoft debunked rumors that SP1 was in the works, saying that Vista was a-ok as is. But we all know even the best coders make mistakes. So why deny it. Someone feeling a tad bit sensitive, perhaps. Regardless, SP1 was spotted at the Windows Hardware Engineering Conference (WinHEC) in LA last week. Some conference goers apparently snapped a few shots of the screen. To see them for yourself, head here Vista Service Pack 1.

Intel lacks Vista-compatible drivers for its chipset

2007-05-22T17:33:00.000-05:00

It seems that even chipmaker, Intel has yet to bring themselves up to Vista speed. Citing a need for stable Vista drivers and improved video support, Intel says it won't have the drivers ready until a targeted date of September. Intel blames Vista and the critics blame Intel as they've not had a banner year. But really, let's be honest, we're not in kindergarten here, someone needs to take responsibility for the delay and hop to it.

Bid Adieu to FreeHand

2007-05-16T20:06:00.000-05:00

Adobe announced it would no longer be updating FreeHand Illustration software. This means no updates for the Windows Vista operating system, as well as Intel-based Mac computers. Adobe is bidding farewell to the Illustration software and hopes it's clients will migrate to Illustrator CS3. This comes as no surprise to those of us who have followed the Adobe acquisition of Macromedia. Duplicate products often result in the elimination of lesser. Seems Adobe is also not quickly rolling out the red carpet for Vista in general. They've been slow to offer support and just recently announced they are working on a postscript driver that should be available in July for printer manufacturers. Hmmm, Vista has been out since January. Could their lack of support signal they don't see a bright future for the new operating system?

Daddy Needs a New Operating System

2007-05-09T13:01:00.000-05:00

Here's my favorite new Mac commercial. I know what you're thinking, this is supposed to be a Vista website, right? And here is another Mac commercial. Is this some kind of trick? Well, it is a Vista site, and as stated previously, I'm not a Mac-addict. But I just get the biggest kick out of the those ads. They're just apple-icious. Isn't everything?

Choose a Vista

I have to admit....

2007-04-23T12:38:00.000-05:00

Ok, I have to admit, I just love those "I'm a Mac, I'm a PC" commercials. No, I'm not a Mac-fan. In fact, I sprang onto the computer-scene at the height of the PC-wars. Mac's were just coming onto the education scene in full force. They had been around throughout my high school years and I was taught on one of the dastardly MacIntosh's. You remember, the ones that the monitor and tower were one and the huge disk drive was on the front. Still, it never took. I just never got the Mac thing. They weren't terribly easy in my day, so I blame that for my less than enthusiastic view of Apple computers. I've always been an avid, loyal PC-gal. I remember how proudly I strutted onto campus with my bright white and blue IBM boxes, brand-spanking new, IBM PS/2, riding up the elevator 11 stories with a load of Mac-addicts. It was ok, I was proud. Still am.

Those "Mac" commercials do get my funny bone, not just because they are creative, but because they're so true. Dead-on, fact. This last one, with the computer error codes really makes me laugh. Again, because they are so true. How many times have I struggled to understand what the bleep a 'fatal exception' or 'syntax error' was. I credit my search for knowledge in helping me wade through sea of PC-confusion. And I, naturally, consider myself wiser because I am a PC user. Because I can figure out how to fix my PC. But I'm starting to wonder, how much more could I accomplish if I didn't have to 'deal' with all the viruses, spam, security holes and overall programming deficiencies of the Microsoft monarchy.

Things that make you go hmmmm.

Second Patch for Vista Vulnerability

2007-04-12T14:15:00.000-05:00

Microsoft released a second patch for another Vista vulnerability discovered in the same week, dubbed the Vista Memory Corruption zero-day flaw, it is considered a critical patch. You can find the download here.

Could this be the beginning of the crack in the dam, so to speak, for Vista's grand security claims?

In other news, it seems that Windows XP OEM is being phased out by the end of the year and will not be available to computer makers. Manufacturers like Dell are not forcing the new operating system onto it's machines, citing driver incompatibilities and stiff hardware requirements. By year's end, they'll have no choice but to migrate to Vista.

Seems a little harsh to me, Vista has come out with a bang, but feels less mainstream than when XP rolled out. I remember this little operating system that caused a lot of problems for users, you might have heard of it, Windows ME. Yep, and it was such a difficult operating system for people to use and upgrade to, that it never quite took off. Out came XP and the rest is history. I'm starting to wonder if Vista may endure the same fate.

Microsoft changes its tune on Vista-capable PC's

2007-04-10T11:25:00.000-05:00

In response to a class-action lawsuit filed last week, Microsoft has re-evaluated it's labeling of PC's as Vista-capable. According to the lawsuit, Vista-capable PC's were not able to run Microsoft Vista Premium at all. Despite there being no specific mention of which version of Vista the PC's could run, the implication that consumers were purchasing a PC that could take full advantage of Vista's "core experiences" such as Vista Aero, is there. So now, when you see a PC label Vista-capable the new fine print is as follows:

"A new PC running Windows XP that carries the Windows Vista Capable PC logo can run Windows Vista. All editions of Windows Vista will deliver core experiences such as innovations in organizing and finding information, security, and reliability. All Windows Vista Capable PCs will run these core experiences at a minimum. Some features available in the premium editions of Windows Vista — like the new Windows Aero user experience — may require advanced or additional hardware."

Clearly a departure from the previous definition of Vista-capable as shown here:

"Through the Windows Vista Capable program, Windows XP-based PCs that are powerful enough to run Windows Vista are now available from leading PC manufacturers worldwide, including Acer Inc., Dell Inc., Fujitsu Limited, Gateway Inc., HP, Lenovo, NEC Corp., Sony Corp., Toshiba and more. The Windows Vista Capable logo is designed to assure customers that the PCs they buy today will be ready for an upgrade to Windows Vista and can run the core experiences of Windows Vista."

In other words, don't expect to get something for nothing. Don't expect a low-end PC to give you that Wow! you see in the Microsoft commercials. But then again, isn't that just common sense. I see their point, and the lawsuit has its merit, but when we live in a buyer-beware world, it still is up to the consumer to do their homework first.

Zero-Day Virus First to Attack Vista

2007-04-09T18:30:00.000-05:00

The 'zero day' virus is the first to attack Microsoft's new operating system, Vista. Microsoft scrambled to release the patch early in an effort to prevent this particular exploit but hackers had already able to exploit the security flaw. Zero day virus impacts other Microsoft operating systems as well, but makes headlines as the first virus to specifically attack Vista.

High Priority Patch Released to Fix .ANI Vulnerability

2007-04-03T17:14:00.000-05:00

Microsoft released a patch today addressing the animated cursor vulnerability. MS07-017 addresses seven vulnerabilities, only three of which pertain to Windows Vista. The animated cursor vulnerability is considered critical as it could allow a potentially dangerous execution of code by a remote user. Microsoft says the threat of exploiting this vulnerability is high, and although they have seen limited attacks, they decided to release this update one week early in an effort to stave off an increase in problems. Security analysts concur that regardless of the patch, attackers will continue to center their efforts on the vulnerability, so it's important for all Windows users to download the patch.

New Version of HijackThis Available for Vista

2007-04-03T11:22:00.000-05:00

HijackThis, the super-useful and free registry utility, has released a beta version compatible with Windows Vista. The utility has also been recently acquired by anti virus software company Trend Micro. Trend Micro is one of my favorites for free online tools to diagnose nasty virus programs that are written to disable or evade the anti virus software on your PC.

HijackThis is kind of like a registry editor on steroids. It analyzes all your registry entries and gives a nice (and often long) log of the scan results. These can be confusing and it's useful to post your results to a forum specializing in understanding the log if you aren't able to make sense of it all. Once you've identified the results you want to remove, make sure to back up your registry before making any changes. A very handy tool in the battle against malware, spyware, viruses, worms and trojans.

Microsoft releases patch aimed at fixing iPod woes

2007-03-29T13:16:00.000-05:00

Microsoft patch Tuesday's releases included one aimed at fixing the ultra-popular iPod and iTunes compatibility issues with Vista. Earlier this month, Apple released an update to iTunes also aimed at fixing the incompatibility issue, but there still remained some hardware removal issues that needed to be addressed by Microsoft. Here's hoping this will give iPod users the relief they're looking for. As a side note, 64-bit operating systems are still off-limits for iPods.

Another Security Company Raises Issue with Vista

2007-03-20T16:43:00.000-05:00

Kaspersky, another top security software firm, has also come out swinging against Vista's security claims. According to Kaspersky's CEO, turning off Vista's UAC (User Account Control) would effectively make the new operating system less secure than Windows XP. UAC is the source of much frustration and chatter on the web, as well as the center of attention in the latest Mac Ad poking fun at Windows systems. I, myself, love the ad format, although I've never been a big Apple-fan. I have to admit they have got some cute (and even clever) advertisements.

Cancel or Allow:

Symantec Raises Security Concerns

2007-03-17T09:20:00.000-05:00

Symantec is worried that the IP protocol Vista uses will open a "Pandora's Box" of security issues and exploitations. For computers not aware of Teredo, Vista's IP tunneling protocol, this means a potential for hackers to attack. Most security systems are not presently protecting against attacks on Teredo because they simply are not aware that it even exists, thereby making such attacks invisible. Firewalls, routers and other security intrusion devices will have to be modified in order to recognize the new IP protocol.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2007-03-17T09:19:00.000-05:00

May your beer be green and your day filled with pots of gold!!

Static Backgrounds Gone with the Wow

2007-03-15T22:17:00.000-05:00

Windows has released a additional content for it's Vista Ultimate Extra Dreamscene. For those of you not acquainted with Dreamscene, it's a dynamic video background for your desktop. No more dry, boring static backgrounds for Ultimate users, now you can choose from a variety of videos for your viewing pleasure. And Microsoft released four more today, including a puddle with falling raindrops and forest stream. Guaranteed to bring you peace and serenity during your double-shot venti mochachino-infused, meeting-filled business day. Dreamscene, while it may satisfy your need for customization, it may not be pleasing to your performance needs. Users report a reduction in system performance, and as we continue to tax our pc's with this new operating system, it seems our need for greater specs keep increasing as well.

iTunes still doesn't play nicely with Vista

2007-03-07T12:05:00.000-06:00

Beloved iPod-owners beware! You may not be able to sync your music with ease on Microsoft's new operating system, Vista. After several revisions, Apple has released iTunes 7.1 with the hopes that it will correct the majority of known issues. But trouble still awaits for many a user.

Some of the potential problems include corrupting your iPod after removing the hardware from your pc, text or graphics displaying incorrectly and contacts may not sync correctly with Windows Address Book. While some of these are merely annoying, coming from one of the best mp3 players around, some are downright disastrous, especially if you've paid top-dollar for those iTunes downloads.

And finally, your iTunes is still not ready for 64-bit Vista or XP for that matter. For all the bragging that we hear about Macs and their infinite greatness over pcs, I didn't realize they had a "wittle-bit" of trouble processing 64-bit commands. Awwwe.

So, continue to beware of potential pitfalls when syncing your iPod. Until Apple gets it right, and I'm sure they will, Vista-users and their music are vulnerable to instability.

It's A Microsoft Dozen!

2007-02-15T15:40:00.000-06:00

Patch Tuesday has arrived and it looks like it contains the first official Vista security patch. No surprise there. I'm sure we'll see as many if not more security patches in the weeks and months to come. Each time a patch is released, the culprit seems to be best summed up as "a problem could allow someone to take complete control of a victim's computer." I've heard that phrase so many times from Microsoft security jargon, it's beginning to lose it's effect.

But really, are we surprised that Microsoft's shiny new system already needs a tune-up? No. Wrap your brain around this little tidbit of trivia. Vista contains over 100 million (yes 100 million) lines of code. Assume there's even a .0001 percent error rate, and that adds up to 1000 security flaws. Food for thought for you malcontents out there waiting to attack Bill. By the way, I'm sure he doesn't take it personally. Translation: Do something better with your free time. Feed a homeless person, give a needy child some toys. That's my soapbox for the day.

Since Vista has been hailed as a security trailblazer I'm sure this will entice a new level of bloodsuckers. And maybe Bill is just asking for it. Perhaps the security hype is nothing more than just that. I think there's a certain amount of truth to the hype. And equally, I think there is plenty to point to Microsoft's aggressive stance in combating the relentless security attacks on its innocent users.

Vista is Officially Released!!

2007-02-15T15:39:00.000-06:00

Microsoft officially released it's newest operating system on January 30, 2007. Many launch parties were held around the globe to celebrate the official debut of Vista.

Microsoft Announces Vista Customer Preview Program

2006-06-08T10:20:00.000-05:00

For the first time, Microsoft is releasing a beta pre-release edition of Windows Vista to the public. The beta release is intended for IT professionals and developers but it available openly to everyone with the caution that beta code is still in development and should be only used in test environments.

This means, for all those newbies out there, don't put it on your home pc because if it can wreck havoc, it will, and Microsoft doesn't want to be blamed. You've been warned. Now run along, download your DVD images, burn baby burn and get that hot little install into your hands.

Oh, and please, please READ the fine print on this one. It's well worth it. Make sure your system has the minimum requirements to be considered Vista-capable.

It also appears that Microsoft official speak is still closely adhering to the final release date being in 2007. It has been speculated that the release could have come as early as November 2006, but then Microsoft pushed back their timetable for its commercial release date to January 2007 disappointing many retail marketers and faithful Microsoft fans.

Vista Step-by-step Guides for IT Professionals

2006-03-08T20:50:00.000-06:00

Microsoft now has step-by-step guides available for download on its website.
The guides are designed to aid IT professionals in deploying Windows Vista. Some of the guides included are Deploying Vista, Performance Monitoring and Tuning, User Account Control and Trusted Platform Module Services. The guides are in Word document format.

BitLocker™ Drive Encryption

2006-03-07T20:41:00.000-06:00

An exciting new frontier in hardware-based security is being unleashed in Windows Vista. BitLocker™ Drive Encryption promises to provide stronger data protection by attaching a microchip to the motherboard. The microchip, called Trusted Platform Module (TPM), contains passwords, digital certificates, keys and other vital security information. Due to the manner in which BitLocker™ encrypts and unlocks data, Microsoft feels this will ensure your computer is even protected while offline, lost or if it’s stolen. One of the neat things about TPM is that is relies totally on hardware to provide software encryption/decryption. Because it does not rely on the operating system, and rather its own internal circuitry, it is not vulnerable to software attacks.

An interesting side note: According to an article I read at PCWorld TPM theoretically could be used in some pretty nefarious ways to circumvent the long arm of the law gaining access to your PC. Considering that we often see news footage of PC’s being carted away to aid the prosecution, this technology could prove to be quite a bump in the road. Do I hear a Justice Department review getting started already?

For those of you who are already running Vista, you can enable BitLocker™ Drive Encryption even without the TPM. I must warn you, this is not for the light-hearted. It can render your machine unusable if done incorrectly. So kids, don’t try this at home. And the rest of you, if you must, do this on a test machine. For the complete set of instructions, check out this site.

Totally Awesome Vista News!

2006-03-04T15:47:00.000-06:00

I just read that DELL is boosting the memory in their XPS systems to 1GB without raising the prices. This is great Vista news because Vista really requires that much memory, so for those of you planning on buying new systems, manufacturers are getting ready.

Another COOL Vista Launch Contest

2006-03-04T15:34:00.000-06:00

Over at VistaBabble.com, where I'm a moderator, they are giving away a free copy of Windows Vista Home Premium Edition upon its release. Get Contest details here.

VistaBabble.com is an awesome forum where you can get great tips, help installing Vista and a whole lot more.

Vista Launch Contest

2006-02-09T20:21:00.000-06:00

Microsoft has put together a promotion and giveaway contest for 10 lucky winners. Guess the official launch date of Vista, and you could win one of many prizes including being in attendance the official launch courtesy of Microsoft or an XBOX. Enter as often as you’d like and the closer you are to the date, the better your chances are of winning.

Good Luck!
Click Here to try your luck.

Vista Computer

2006-01-25T12:46:00.000-06:00

Well I'm finally considering getting a new pc. My current one is my baby. I built it from scratch, burned it in and we've been in a love/hate relationship ever since. But as that was quite a few years ago, it's time for an upgrade.

And as I digest the new specs for the upcoming release of Vista, I'm getting rather excited. So I'm going to start looking for my next dream machine. The new OS has some interesting new demands and although I'm not going to build a Vista-spec-only machine, I am certainly going to go for main requirements and then I'll be ready to welcome her in when she's finally released.

My aim to create the ultimate graphics machine which coincidentally has some of the same needs as Vista. I've been researching gamer's forums to see what's hot there as well, as quite honestly, gamers have similar reqs as graphic artists.

So far, Microsoft hasn't released any official minimum hardware requirements, but it's safe to say that looking at the beta version requirements, Vista is going be a much more demanding system. According to the Microsoft website, they actually state that you should have a modern CPU. All due respect, but that’s like saying you should buy a shiny diamond. Though to give them credit, they do link to Intel and AMD’s sites that specify in more detail the credits of a “modern CPU.” Since I’m still an Intel diehard, I’ll probably continue to stick with them. I’m completely psyched about dual-core, so the Pentium D 930 looks like a good choice. Unless I wanted to build my own system again, then I’d have to look at the Pentium Extreme Edition that offers both dual-core and hyper-threading.

Vista has been hinting at the need for 256mb graphics card to fully enjoy the visual glass effect of Vista Aero. DirectX version 9 will be imperative, as will the ability for your graphics card to support WDDM. No, that has nothing to do with WMD's. WDDM is Windows Display Driver Model and it's important to note, as not all graphics cards are WDDM capable. Looks like we can also bid AGP adieu as Vista uses PCIx. So a PCIx16 graphics slot is necessary. Right now, I’m favoring the nVidia GeForce 7800 GT.

And then of course, there’s memory. So far we’re hearing 512MB is recommended. And there’s talk of upwards to 2GB being optimal. Holy DIMM-sticks! I remember when 32MB was considered revolutionary. In all fairness, they do say systems will be able to run on 128MB but at a sacrifice of performance and speed. Well, I’m talking dream machine here, so I’ll definitely want that 2GB.

With all this talk about graphics cards, I can’t forget the new monitor. Vista is going to present some pretty cool new options for end-users with this operating system. Things like HDTV and wide-screen capability are going desktop. Right now, I like the Dell UltraSharp 2405FP, despite its mixed reviews depending on what production version you get, it’s a behemoth 24” of sweet bliss for the eyes, the ViewSonic VP930, which is just an all around solid screen, but only 19” and the LaCie 321, that blows away the competition in both performance and price. Making the switch from my trusty ViewSonic G810 CRT to an LCD will be tough. But I think LCD’s have come a long way and I’m ready to take the plunge. It sure will take up less space on my desk, and I won't have to worry about it crushing my 4 year old if it falls on him.

So here's keeping my fingers crossed to find all the awesome components I'm looking for in a pre-built configuration.

User Account Control

2006-01-22T15:12:00.000-06:00

The Name Changes, But Goal Remains the Same
What is User Account Control (UAC)?

User Account Control (UAC) has gone through several names until settling on its final title. Originally known as Limited User Accounts and then User Account Protection, User Account Control is a core security feature in Vista. It is intended to be the progression of Windows Administrator privileges and a huge hike up in their overall concept of desktop security, as we know it.

The concept of user permissions has been around since Windows NT, but most applications fail to run in a non-administrator capacity. The UAC aims to change all that, making standard mode the default, and an easy option for everyone to utilize.

User Account Control will run your computer in standard user mode allowing you to do most common actions, but require permission to install applications or make changes to your system. Running your system in standard user mode greatly decreases the probabilities of security breaches to you computer. When you want to install a program, or make changes to the settings, you’ll be required to enter the Administrator’s password.

So when you go to install a program on your system, the Consent Dialog will pop up. The Consent Dialog box tells you when you’re going to do something that requires Administrator privileges. You’ll have to grant or deny permission at this point. If this box appears unexpectedly, it may signal a hackers attempt to access your system or an installation of spyware.

For one, this is a good step towards preventing unwanted malware being installed on your computer without the end user knowing it, however, I’m interested to see how difficult it may make using your system in practical ways. I have high hopes that Microsoft can tweak the final version of UAC to make both worlds mesh nicely.

And while the UAC’s intentions are good, Microsoft warns it may take users awhile adjust to this new protocol and to fully appreciate its long-term benefits. MSDN likens the experience to seatbelts in automobiles. Sounds like a major inconvenience to sysadmins, and a confusing concept for support techs to explain to novices. Should prove interesting to see how the general public receives this “feature”.

Microsoft: Bill....er....Clinton???

2006-01-19T17:14:00.000-06:00

Please tell me it's not true!!! Clinton is courting Gates and Gates is courting Clinton!! Rumor has it, that Clinton is interviewing for Microsoft's top spot once current head honcho Steve Ballmer vacates. Clinton has in fact been spotted at Microsoft headquarters. What is this world coming to?? Has Clinton even ever used a computer? Surely, if he has, he didn't turn it on.

Perhaps if it was an honorary title, ya know like the ones colleges hand out to esteemed individuals, I could be more accepting. Or perhaps Gates is looking for more of a celebrity-type notoriety than the dull computer protocol he has built his life around. Or maybe even still, he's looking to circumvent any further DOJ entanglements. The later seems the most likely.

So for now, it's just a rumor, and we 'll have to wait to find out what Bill and Bill have in mind.

Security Concerns

2006-01-19T17:10:00.000-06:00

Microsoft has released a security patch for it's beta-version of Vista, build 5270. Yes, it's true, the Washington giant is releasing patches for software it hasn't even officially released yet. Gotta love that. Well, it's about time they started acting like they were on the ball.

The patch addresses the same vulnerability that was discovered last month for XP. Basically, the vulnerability allows hackers to gain remote access to PCs and install malicious software on them. Considered "extremely critical" by several security vendors, affects systems running Windows XP as well as Windows Server 2003.

Welcome to VistaSphere!

2006-01-16T14:17:00.000-06:00

VistaSphere is my newest project revolving Windows latest operating system. Windows Vista, as it's currently being called, has long been known as Longhorn. Well, as we approach the release date of this Microsoft O/S, I'll be keeping this site updated with various tips, techniques, troubleshooting and trivia surrounding Vista. I'll also include any sites that Vista users will find helpful in their quest to upgrade, install or avoid MS Vista. Personally, I'm quite excited about this new O/S, not that I think it promises to impress users beyond compare, its just that any time a new software comes out, especially in the operating systems genre, it makes me take note.