On some XP Pro installations, when connected to a network (peer-peer in this case), the computer boot time is over 1:40. The system seems to freeze after logging in and the desktop may not appear or will freeze for a minute. As timed with the utility, Bootvis.exe, the problem was with the driver mrxsmb.dll, adding over 67 seconds to the boot time. Turning off and restoring file and printer sharing eliminated 65 seconds from the boot time.
- Alt-click (or right click) on Network Places > Properties
- Alt-click on Ethernet Adapter connection > properties
- Un-check "File and Printer Sharing for Microsoft Networks" > OK
- reboot
- If you need file or printer sharing, repeat the above, re-check the box and re-boot again.
If you own a Google Chromecast streaming device, you can easily share a browser tab in Chrome browser or even your entire desktop. This can be very useful when presenting from your laptop or if you just want to watch something on a big screen that is only on your PC. The only requirement is you must be on the same network as your Chromecast...
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If you are a fan of minimalist desktop experiences, hiding the desktop icons are an easy way to clean up the Windows interface. Instead of saving everything to your desktop, use the default profile folders such as downloads and documents. Actually hiding all the icons on your desktop is a very simple customization hidden in the right-click context menu. Just right-click on the desktop, select View...
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Google security researchers have published details about a major security flaw found in the SSL protocol that is used to encrypt data transferred between your browser and a web server. SSL is typically used in situations where logon credentials are validated...
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Enabling two-factor authentication is a great way to add an additional level of protection to your Microsoft account. Even if your password is stolen, your account is still protected because two-factor authetication requires an additional level of verification to log in. Microsoft calls their version of two-factor authentication "two-step verification" and it works by providing you with a random code...
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