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Mohd Saqib's Questions & Answers

in Health, Agony Aunt& Computers & Technology

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Questions Asked: 127

Best Answers: 17

Is it Safe to Select the "Remember Me on this Computer" Checkbox with Online Accounts?

Asked by Sakhi Sum in Computers & Technology at 11:23 PM on November 18, 2008

Khan's Answer

Websites that require registration often have a checkbox the user can tick so that they will not have to re-enter their username and password on subsequent visits. The text might state “remember me on this computer,” or words to that effect. Just what happens when you check this box, and how safe is it to do this?

Providing the Web browser is configured to allow cookies, when a user elects to “remember me on this computer” the website creates a cookie with the user’s registration information. A computer cookie is a small text file that resides on the user’s machine with a copy filed on website’s server. Think of it as a nametag with a few more bits of information. The next time the user visits the site, the browser automatically hands over the cookie upon arrival. The website allows automatic entrance because the Web browser has essentially handed it your credentials.

In many cases this is fine. For example, if the website is a TV chat forum, syndicated newspaper or clipart website, there is likely no harm in it. However, if the website holds personal information about you, choosing to “remember me on this computer” is probably a bad idea.

Online banking, Web email accounts and online retailers are all examples of websites where you probably do not want automatic admittance. If anyone uses your computer and visits the site (probably easily found in your bookmarks), he or she will be automatically logged into your account. This will give the ‘imposter’ instant access to private information including potential bank records and finances.

Assuming everyone in your household is trustworthy (you might even live alone), there is still reason to avoid ticking the “remember me on this computer” box. It might happen that you need to drop off your computer for repair, that it’s stolen, or that visitors ask to use the computer. This is especially true of terminals at work. Automatic logon to sensitive sites can put you at unnecessary risk.

For maximum protection it is best to reserve “remember me on this computer” for sites that do not hold personal information. If you have trouble remembering logon information there are programs designed to hold your usernames and passwords for you in encrypted form. Two such programs are KeePass Password Safe and Secure Data Manager, which are free and open-source. Open-source programs make their source code publicly available online so that it can be widely checked for bugs and security flaws.

Source:
http://www.wiseg eek.com/is-it-safe-to-select-the-re member-me-on-this-computer-checkbox -with-online-accounts.htm

Answered at 11:35 PM on November 18, 2008 | Read Comments [0]

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Do I Have to Type in the HTTP and WWW in the Address Field of my Web Browser?

Asked by Tarzan in Computers & Technology at 11:23 PM on November 18, 2008

Khan's Answer

Current versions of the most popular Web browsers do not require http:// to be entered in the address field when surfing the Internet. However, whether or not a website will require www. is not dependent on the browser, but on the Domain Name System (DNS) record for that domain.

Web surfing is made possible by a massive cooperative effort based upon a common language or set of protocols. All computers connected to the Internet follow these protocols in order to be able to communicate with one another. When a surfer clicks on a hyperlink or manually enters an address in his or her browser, the browser connects to the DNS database to look up the relevant DNS record. The record contains the name of the website, such as www.wisegeek.com, and the corresponding numerical address, known as the Internet Protocol (IP) address. Every computer on the Internet must have a unique IP address so that pages can be sent by Web servers and received by surfers.

Some DNS records only contain one version of the domain name. For instance, a DNS record might only contain www.example.com, and not example.com. In this case if a surfer enters the latter in the browser, no match will be found and the browser will hang or come back with an error message. If the surfer amends the address in the browser to www.example.com, the DNS record will be found. Now the browser will obtain the IP address and connect to the host server to request the desired webpage.

Many domains today are created without “www.” preceding the address, negating the need to enter it into the browser. The DNS record for such a site will list the domain name as, example.com. Nevertheless, some surfers will add the “www” prefix out of sheer habit. To route this traffic as well, the DNS records of these sites commonly include an extra entry called CNAME. This tag allows one to map an alias to the main domain name. The alias, in this case, would be the longer, “www.example.com.” With this type of DNS record, a surfer reaches the site whether or not “www.” is entered in the browser.

DNS records can be amended to include a mapped alias. If the site was created as a subdomain on a host server named "www" it may only contain www.example.com in the DNS record. If you would like to amend the DNS record to catch all intended traffic, contact your domain registrar.

Source:
http://www.w isegeek.com/do-i-have-to-type-in-th e-http-and-www-in-the-address-field -of-my-web-browser.htm

Answered at 11:35 PM on November 18, 2008 | Read Comments [0]

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What is the Difference Between a Split Keyboard and an Ergonomic Keyboard?

Asked by Tarzan in Computers & Technology at 11:23 PM on November 18, 2008

Khan's Answer

If you spend a lot of time working on your computer, you may be wondering if a split keyboard or ergonomic keyboard is a wise investment. Although these terms are often used interchangeably, they are slightly different.

A split keyboard is either made with a larger space between the middle of the keyboard or divided into two or three separate parts to allow for more comfortable typing and proper wrist support. Because of its innovative construction and contoured design, a split keyboard tends to be significantly larger than a traditional computer keyboard-—posing a potential problem if you’re dealing with a smaller workspace.

One of the most common complaints about a split keyboard is that it can very difficult to operate if you’re not a touch typist. If you’re used to a "hunt-and-peck" typing method, a split keyboard will likely require a substantial adjustment in the way you type. However, there are several websites and software programs that can help teach you how to type on a split keyboard.

An ergonomic keyboard is designed for users who have trouble with pain in their hands, arms, neck, or shoulders. Since there is research to indicate that the use of an ergonomic keyboard can help reduce the symptoms of repetitive strain injuries or carpal tunnel syndrome, physical therapists often recommend ergonomic keyboards for patients suffering from these conditions.

An ergonomic keyboard often has a split keyboard design, but it typically includes additional features designed to promote a neutral body posture while typing, reduce unnecessary force or vibration, and prevent awkward reaching for the mouse. Higher-quality ergonomic keyboards also offer adjustment options that allow the user to precisely position the keyboard for his or her optimal comfort level. While most ergonomic keyboards use the traditional QWERTY layout, others use the alternative DVORAK layout. You can also find ergonomic keyboards that use the newer vertical keyboard design, although these keyboards can be quite difficult for an inexperienced typist to use properly.

Both the split keyboard and ergonomic keyboard will be significantly more expensive than a standard computer keyboard. However, it may be well worth the expense if you spend several hours each day at your desk.

Since the demand for both split keyboards and ergonomic keyboards is relatively low, you may have trouble purchasing these items at your local electronics store. In this case, you’ll need to order your new keyboard from an online specialty shop.

Source:
http://www.wisege ek.com/what-is-the-difference-betwe en-a-split-keyboard-and-an-ergonomi c-keyboard.htm

Answered at 11:34 PM on November 18, 2008 | Read Comments [0]

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What Type of Resume Should I Prepare for a Career as a Software Engineer?

Asked by Sakhi Sum in Computers & Technology at 11:23 PM on November 18, 2008

Khan's Answer

When applying for a position as a software engineer, it is important to think about the needs of the position, as well as the strengths and weaknesses of the applicant. Your resume is a vital tool for communicating with potential employers. Job seekers should spend a significant amount of time on a resume to ensure a call back and potential employment. In many instances, a resume should be customized for each position the applicant is trying for, rather than being mass distributed.

You should read up on writing an effective resume, so that you can impress potential employers with your organization and skills. Many human resources departments will discard resumes which are sloppy, do not demonstrate that the candidate has met the job requirements, or are too lengthy. Take care to craft a well written resume which addresses the specific job position you are applying for. Reflect the language used in the job advertisement in your resume and cover letter.

In order to prepare for a career as a software engineer, you should start with an education. Most positions as a software engineer expect candidates to possess at least a Bachelors Degree in Computer Science, Computer Information Systems, Software Engineering or a related field. Some positions may require an advanced degree, and many positions also require specific certifications. Before submitting a resume to a potential employer, make sure you meet the education and certification requirements for the position, and indicate this clearly on your resume.

Experience is also a valuable trait for job candidates. Many companies offer internships to students and young adults interested in pursuing a career in software engineering. These internships will look good on your resume, and better prepare you for a professional position. You should be able to demonstrate in your resume that you are familiar with a wide range of computer systems, systems analysis, and that you have programming skills. On the job experience, even in an entry level or internship position, will strengthen your resume.

Whether you are just entering the job market or seeking a new position as a software engineer, your resume should also indicate that you are keeping up with advances in your chosen field. Computer technology is a rapidly evolving field. Therefore, continuing education classes and new certifications will give you an edge. Universities offer continuing education, as do some computer science oriented companies and organizations. Your resume and your job performance will benefit from these courses.

Source:
http://www.wis egeek.com/what-type-of-resume-shoul d-i-prepare-for-a-career-as-a-softw are-engineer.htm

Answered at 11:34 PM on November 18, 2008 | Read Comments [0]

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How Can I Stop Good Emails From Being Misfiled In My Bulk Mail Folder?

Asked by Sakhi Sum in Computers & Technology at 11:24 PM on November 18, 2008

Khan's Answer

Many people create a bulk mail folder in their email programs to reduce the amount of spam or junk emails that can crowd up their inboxes. With the help of spam filters this can greatly reduce time wasted dealing with junk email, but spam filters aren't foolproof — some emails you want to receive in your inbox may be erroneously filed in your spam or bulk mail folder. You don’t want messages from family members, list serves you subscribe to, or business email getting “lost” in a bulk mail folder. Additionally, you shouldn’t have to wade through such a folder to try to find the important stuff.

Despite the proliferation of email filters, there are very simple ways to stop good emails from being filed in your bulk email folder. Your email program may have the option to mark mail as “junk” or “not junk.” When you mark mail as "not junk," it will end up in your inbox rather than in your bulk mail folder. Do this over time, and your spam filter should get trained to know that that type of email isn't spam.

Another thing you can do to reduce good emails from being misfiled in your bulk mail folder is to make sure your address book includes the email addresses that you expect to receive email from. Most email service providers keep a handy address book where you can store email addresses that matter. Be sure your address book includes the email addresses of family, friends, favorite list serves, and business associates and you should be able to reduce the number of good emails that are misfiled.

If you’re job searching and are sending out resumes to various email addresses, you may want to add these addresses, at least temporarily, to your address list. You can always delete them later if you don’t hear from the company.

These two simple steps together should help reduce most of your problems with misfiling emails in your bulk mail folder. Still, email service programs and spam filters have different features. If these solutions don't work, check the options or preferences within your email program to see if there are other suggestions your email service provider might have.

Another thing you can do, which most email programs and Internet providers will allow, is to set up a “dummy” email address. This way if you’re asked for your email address to register with certain companies, you provide the “dummy” address, rather than your true email, which you only give to those you want to get mail from. Most spam, advertisements, and the like will end up in the bulk folder of the dummy address rather than be addressed to your true address.

When you’re job searching, especially on sites like craigslist, often you won’t know what email address to look for in reply emails. Since some job offers can be scams, it’s recommended that you don’t send resumes through anonymous craigslist mail. Instead, contact the person and ask for an email address from the company prior to sending along a resume, then add this address to your address list.

Source:
http://www.wisege ek.com/how-can-i-stop-good-emails-f rom-being-misfiled-in-my-bulk-mail- folder.htm

Answered at 11:34 PM on November 18, 2008 | Read Comments [0]

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What should a Truck Driver Consider when Buying Log Book Software?

Asked by Sakhi Sum in Computers & Technology at 11:25 PM on November 18, 2008

Khan's Answer

The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has a maze of rules and regulations that truck drivers must follow, including keeping daily logs of their hours of service. Within each log is a record of time spent actually driving, time spent “on duty,” not driving, and time spent at rest or off duty. Even when a driver is sitting still, such as when he or she is waiting to get loaded or unloaded, the driver must record that time as being on duty. Log book software can help.

If a truck driver goes over the allotted number of hours, the driver can be cited for a violation. This may result in fines or points against the trucker’s license, and sometimes it’s hard to keep up with the various requirements. DOT rules change frequently and drivers must keep up with the changes, so some programs can be easily updated to include modifications of DOT regulations. This is one of the better features of some log book software programs.

Log book software is especially handy for the OTR, or "over the road" truck driver. OTR trucking, as opposed to local or regional routes, can easily result in violations. Truck drivers must keep impeccable records and this can be difficult to do when traveling through different time zones in a matter of days or even hours. Log book software does the work for the driver.

Truck drivers should look for programs that not only update DOT rules but also calculate hours of service and hours remaining. Look for a log book software program that allows you to put in your trip information, measure average MPH, and one that makes note of potential violations in advance. Check options for “best routes,” maps, and the ability to print reports such as fueling and maintenance expenses.

These reports can help you keep a record of your logs for up to six months. For the owner operator, reports can also make it easier to see how much money is coming in and going out. With log book software, you’ll be able to keep track of fuel, tolls, maintenance, and other operational expenses so you can quickly determine your profit for each trip or your annual profit.

Log book software is also available for companies that employ more than one driver. Companies can easily keep track of mileage, duty hours, average MPH, and violations if any. If your trucking company is audited, this information will be at your fingertips, and you can print up to six months worth of records.

Source:
http://www.wis egeek.com/what-should-a-truck-drive r-consider-when-buying-log-book-sof tware.htm

Answered at 11:33 PM on November 18, 2008 | Read Comments [0]

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What is the Difference Between Troubleshooting, Testing, and Debugging?

Asked by Tarzan in Computers & Technology at 11:24 PM on November 18, 2008

Khan's Answer

Spend any amount of time working or playing on computers and soon you’ll hear three words bandied about: troubleshooting, testing and debugging. While the first two are common enough, their meanings might seem blurred or even synonymous. In practice each of these actions is different, though related.

Troubleshooting is the bane of the end-user and customer support technician, and begins when software or hardware does not perform as expected, giving an unanticipated or otherwise unsatisfactory result. In many cases user error is at fault.

The first step in troubleshooting is to cover the basics. Is the software or hardware installed properly? Is it configured properly? Have you read the manual and followed all instructions? Maybe you changed something in your system that precipitated the problem? Have you been using this product all along, or is it a new install?

If it’s a new install you can almost be sure that the trouble lies in the installation process, particularly in the case of hardware. Hardware requires a device driver (software file) that acts as a bridge or interface between the hardware and the operating system. If the device driver fails, the hardware cannot communicate properly with other system components. Device drivers might not be present or might have been installed in the wrong order relative to the device.

If the problem lies in hardware that was working perfectly fine up to the present moment, corruption of the device driver might be the cause. Reinstalling the driver might solve the problem. An updated driver might also do the trick. Other times, reseating a component in the motherboard by powering down the computer, extracting the component then reinstalling it takes care of the issue.

Troubleshooting hardware in Windows™ operating systems is also available through the Device Manager and Help menus. A yellow exclamation mark next to a component in the Device Manager indicates a problem.

Software that starts behaving badly might also be corrupted. Reinstallation can sometimes help, but if a program began acting up after new, unrelated software was installed, there might be a conflict between the two. Firewalls and anti-virus programs are notorious for not playing together nicely, and it’s probably wise to stick to just one program in each of these categories unless you are an advanced user.

Troubleshooting in general usually involves reading manuals or help files, going over the basics to eliminate user error as a potential cause, and using a search engine to investigate how others have solved the problem. If there’s one thing you can always count on as an end user, it’s that someone has walked in your shoes before. The Internet community is very good about providing help, and in most cases answers can be found by diligent searching.

Testing is the precursor to debugging. Testing is commonly the forte of programmers and advanced users, and occurs when a product is new or is being updated and needs to be put through its paces to eliminate potential problems. Testing identifies “bugs” or imperfections so that they can be corrected in the debugging process, before the [next] official release of the product. These “unofficial” releases are known as beta releases (e.g. 3.0b), and public volunteers are known as beta testers.

Beta testing is a valuable resource for software developers because of the varied computer systems participating, combined with the sheer number of hours and scenarios under which the program is used. This flushes out unforeseen problems in a way that can’t be effectively achieved using in house debuggers only. The beta testing phase gives authors a good idea of the readiness of a product for the public domain.

Hardware is beta tested as well but since it is financially prohibitive to provide free beta hardware to the public, hardware testing and debugging is commonly done in house. Beta products m

Answered at 11:33 PM on November 18, 2008 | Read Comments [0]

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What is the Difference Between a Website With a WWW and Without?

Asked by Tarzan in Computers & Technology at 11:24 PM on November 18, 2008

Khan's Answer

The quick answer to this question is that there is no difference between the two addresses for most modern domains. For example, typing www.wisegeek.com or wisegeek.com into the Uniform Resource Locator (URL) of your Web browser will bring you to this site with equal ease. However, leaving “www” off of some websites can result in the browser being unable to find the site. This problem is correctable by the domain holder. A cursory understanding of how the World Wide Web (WWW) works will be helpful in understanding the problem.

The Internet is a massive network of computers that communicate by using agreed upon protocols. For example, every computer on the Internet is assigned a unique numerical address so that information can be sent and received without being lost. These unique addresses are called Internet Protocol addresses, or IPs for short. In the case of a website the numeric IP maps to a name, as names are easier for surfers to remember than numbers.

The Domain Name System (DNS) database contains a record for each website, which stores the website's name and IP address. When clicking on a link or entering an address in a Web browser, it sends a request to the DNS database to resolve the name to the corresponding IP address. If the “www” prefix is left off and the browser stalls, it is likely that the DNS record does not contain the short version of the domain name: the version without the “www.”

Once the name is found in the DNS database it is resolved to the corresponding IP. This allows the browser to create a connection with the server that hosts the site. It requests the page and supplies your IP address, akin to sending a self-addressed stamped envelope. The host server sends the webpage to your computer and the transaction is complete.

In the past many host servers created websites as subdomains under www., following then-current naming conventions. "WWW" identified the server as a Web server, versus a server dedicated to other tasks. As the Internet became more widely traveled by the general public, however, the ubiquitous “www” was often overlooked when entering website addresses into browsers. This resulted in lost website traffic and frustrated surfers, as many DNS records only contained www.example.com, and not example.com for the domain name.

Over time hosts began dropping the “www” designation for Web servers, and domains were created as example.com. To catch traffic that might arbitrarily include “www” in the browser request, DNS records instead included an extra entry to cover this occurrence. CNAME is the DNS tag that maps an alias to the main name in the DNS record: in this case the "www." version of the name. With this solution surfers could include or exclude www. and reach the site either way.

Source:
http://www.wisegee k.com/what-is-the-difference-betwee n-a-website-with-a-www-and-without. htm

Answered at 11:33 PM on November 18, 2008 | Read Comments [0]

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What are Some of the Different Computer Programming Languages?

Asked by Sakhi Sum in Computers & Technology at 11:25 PM on November 18, 2008

Khan's Answer

There are thousands of computer programming languages. These languages are used to control the way computers behave, process information, express algorithms, and handle tasks. Some computer programming languages have been around for many years while new languages, or variations on old ones, are developed every year. Computer programming languages range from the simple and easy to use to very complicated languages used by only the most technologically proficient programmers.

One well-known computer programming language is called Visual BASIC. Microsoft Visual BASIC is considered a high level programming language. It is descendant from Beginners' All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code (BASIC), a Disk Operating System (DOS) programming language. Visual BASIC is considered simple to learn, featuring codes that bear a similarity to written English. Visual BASIC is both visual and events driven, featuring a graphical environment for programming.

Pascal is also well known among those with interest in computer programming languages. Developed in 1970, by Professor Niklaus Wirth, Pascal is an imperative language. An imperative language is one that uses computations as statements, changing program states through sequences of commands. Professor Wirth developed Pascal to fill feature gaps left by other computer programming languages. His development goals included designing a programming language that would facilitate the creation of well-structured programs, allow for implementation efficiency, and prove helpful in teaching computer-programming concepts.

Fortran is a general-purpose computer programming language that was first introduced by IBM in the early 1950s. It is one of the most frequently used computer programming languages for numerical-based and scientific-computing applications. Fortran fits into categories reserved for general purpose and imperative computer programming languages; it is also considered procedural. It is frequently used in computation-heavy areas, such as computational sciences and climate modeling.

C++ is a high-level computer programming language. It is considered general purpose and is widely used for modern computers. Developed by Bjarne Stroustrup, at Bell Labs, C++ was first introduced in 1985. This programming language was developed for the UNIX environment, allowing programmers to enjoy an easier process for writing code and improving code quality. Additionally, C++ makes it possible to modify existing code without changing it.

Often considered a superset of the C programming language, C++ includes some features of the earlier language. It also boasts compilers capable of running C programs. However, there are major differences. For example, the C programming language, developed in the early 1970s, employs structured programming concepts while C++ is object oriented. C++ was designed with the goal of enhancing the C programming language.

Source:
http://www.wi segeek.com/what-are-some-of-the-dif ferent-computer-programming-languag es.htm

Answered at 11:32 PM on November 18, 2008 | Read Comments [0]

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How Can I Determine Which Operating System is On My Computer?

Asked by Tarzan in Computers & Technology at 11:25 PM on November 18, 2008

Khan's Answer

An operating system, sometimes called an OS, is the foundation of all system software on your computer. It is the part of your computer that is responsible for controlling input and output devices, managing files, and prioritizing system requests, as well as controlling and allocating memory. If your computer didn't have a working operating system, it would essentially be a large paperweight.

If you have problems with your computer and need to call a tech support hotline, you'll probably be asked which operating system you are running. The easiest way to determine which operating system your computer is running is to watch what appears when you start your computer. In most cases, your computer will display the logo of which operating system it is running for a brief time before all of the software loads.

Microsoft Windows dominates the market for personal computers, although there are several different versions of the Windows operating system available. If your computer is running Microsoft Windows, you can go to START > RUN and type "winver.exe" in the open field to be taken to a dialog box describing which version of Windows is on your computer.

If your computer is running Mac OS X, you can determine which operating system version you have by selecting "About this Mac" from the Apple menu. A small window will appear that displays your version number.

Linux is the name usually given to any Unix-like operating system that works by using the Linux kernel. Linux operating systems are mostly used by servers, but they may also be found in video game systems, mobile phones, e-book readers, and DVRs. The Linux operating system is unique in that all underlying source code can be freely used, modified, and redistributed by anyone.

While troubleshooting technical problems is one example of a situation when it's helpful to know your computer operating system, knowing which operating system you have is also useful when you're purchasing new software for your computer. Some games and desktop publishing or personal accounting programs are only compatible with certain operating systems. For example, your purchase may not work if you're running a version of Windows that is considered to be out of date. However, for general Web surfing and sending email to friends and family, any operating system that allows your computer to work effectively is sufficient. An upgrade is only required when you begin to have problems that interfere with your productivity.

Source:
http://ww w.wisegeek.com/how-can-i-determine- which-operating-system-is-on-my-com puter.htm

Answered at 11:32 PM on November 18, 2008 | Read Comments [0]

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