It's been all over the technology news article in the past day. Microsoft has been updating your system even if you don't want it to. Bloggers and professional journalists alike are complaining that this is an invasion of privacy and is unethical in regards to what a company should be doing for the user.
Guess what? It's not an invasion of privacy! Guess what? It's not unethical!
When you buy a product from Microsoft, you are simply buying the rights to use that product. That is why when you buy a copy of Microsoft Office, XP, Vista or Server, you are usually given a certain number of copies that can be distributed among computers you own.
Ranging from one copy to enterprise editions, these products are there for you to utilize and increase your productivity. So what is the problem with stealth updates?
I can understand if you are an IT professional that runs images or test machinery that is meant to check on limitations and run diagnostics. The last thing you want is to have updates running in the background and you not knowing about it. But if you work in IT, shouldn't you know that you have options? Scott Gilbertson of Compiler, a blog on Wired.com, states it quite well by saying make sure you hit the "NEVER" option on updates.
So before you complain and worry about this "stealth update uphevel" that is being spread, think about it. Your personal information isn't being consumed and distributed to third party companies by Microsoft. You are simply getting updates that they feel is necessary to run Windows effectively.
I'm not a Microsoft clone and most of the time, my issues only run with Microsoft products, but this particular issue requires thought and common sense. You don't own the Microsoft product, you own the rights to use it and Microsoft still reserves the right to update it if necessary.
I could be wrong. PROVE IT!
Have a great day!
Showing posts with label XP. Show all posts
Showing posts with label XP. Show all posts
Friday, September 14, 2007
Monday, September 3, 2007
Linux Madness!
So it's official, I now have a computer with Linux and it's sweet!
This post is moving along the lines of the last few posts in regards to finding ways around laws and corporate style technology.
For those who don't know what Linux is, I'm might suggest a little visit to a wonderful site called The Linux Vault. This site basically offers some explanations as to what Linux is, how it works, where you can find, who offers it and what the benefits to using it are. Basically, it's a catch-all site that does a great job!
For me, Linux has become something of interest because it is a way to have more access to the world of computing and the design is completely open and customizable. Add in the fact that it's not a major brand like Microsoft and it's FREE and I have a complete computing package to enjoy!
I'm using Ubuntu because of the wide following it has gathered over the past several months and for the simple fact that the assistance with Ubuntu is great and easy to use!
You are probably thinking that I'm a bit of an open-minded tech guy and you are pretty much right. I always want to try out the newest thing and just because it says Microsoft doesn't mean it's perfect. But Linux is something that can be used by anyone for any reason!
Do you:
1. Have an old computer that just isn't worth updating to Windows XP or Vista? USE LINUX!
2. Love your Windows but want to have access to a more secure and customizable OS? USE LINUX!
3. Want to just try something new and exciting and FREE? USE LINUX!
4. Hate Microsoft and Apple for no particular reason? USE LINUX!
5. Want to stick it to "the man" because you are a liberal hippy who thinks capitalism is the bain of human existance? Take a long walk off a short cliff or USE LINUX!
If you happen to fall into category #2, you might find this site to be the best option for you. This site (found here) is THE best site for a visual guide and manual on how to dual boot your computer with Windows and Linux! I used this and found it to be great!
So that's a small Linux rundown on how to get a great OS without paying a dime! Give it a try! Linux could very well be the equalizer in the battle between Apple and Microsoft! Basically, Linux = AWESOME!
Prove me wrong and have a great day!
This post is moving along the lines of the last few posts in regards to finding ways around laws and corporate style technology.
For those who don't know what Linux is, I'm might suggest a little visit to a wonderful site called The Linux Vault. This site basically offers some explanations as to what Linux is, how it works, where you can find, who offers it and what the benefits to using it are. Basically, it's a catch-all site that does a great job!
For me, Linux has become something of interest because it is a way to have more access to the world of computing and the design is completely open and customizable. Add in the fact that it's not a major brand like Microsoft and it's FREE and I have a complete computing package to enjoy!
I'm using Ubuntu because of the wide following it has gathered over the past several months and for the simple fact that the assistance with Ubuntu is great and easy to use!
You are probably thinking that I'm a bit of an open-minded tech guy and you are pretty much right. I always want to try out the newest thing and just because it says Microsoft doesn't mean it's perfect. But Linux is something that can be used by anyone for any reason!
Do you:
1. Have an old computer that just isn't worth updating to Windows XP or Vista? USE LINUX!
2. Love your Windows but want to have access to a more secure and customizable OS? USE LINUX!
3. Want to just try something new and exciting and FREE? USE LINUX!
4. Hate Microsoft and Apple for no particular reason? USE LINUX!
5. Want to stick it to "the man" because you are a liberal hippy who thinks capitalism is the bain of human existance? Take a long walk off a short cliff or USE LINUX!
If you happen to fall into category #2, you might find this site to be the best option for you. This site (found here) is THE best site for a visual guide and manual on how to dual boot your computer with Windows and Linux! I used this and found it to be great!
So that's a small Linux rundown on how to get a great OS without paying a dime! Give it a try! Linux could very well be the equalizer in the battle between Apple and Microsoft! Basically, Linux = AWESOME!
Prove me wrong and have a great day!
Blogged with Flock
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Back To School Computers and Some Recognition
The days are incredibly hot and becoming increasing shorter. This can only mean one thing: It's time school to start!
Woohoo and Boo at the same time! Great for the fact that it's time to get back to some mentally stimulating work and boo for the fact that this is the last year for me and the boring classes that seem to consume a lot of time are right around the corner.
For those who are going to be sending kids to college or private schools or who are just looking because their children are begging for a computer of their own; I have some suggestions.
Warning!: First of all, figure out how responsible your child is. If they are careful with their possessions and seem to be on the go all the time; buy a laptop. If they don't fit those two qualities, stick with a desktop because you'll thank yourself a few months down the road.
The only reason for that warning is the fact that laptops can be dropped, stolen, misplaced and spilled on and if any of those happen, life for that computer will cease to exist. A desktop is a bit harder to move, pretty hard to be stolen or misplaced and if a keyboard is spilled on, it can be replaced for a very reasonable price. Warranty plans only cover so much unless you spend extra at companies like Dell for a CompleteCare program.
#1. After you've decided on what kind of computer, pick a brand and budget that works for you. Good laptops for a decent price come from companies like HP, Gateway and Toshiba. The warranties are decent, the computers are good for everyday use and it's hard to beat the $500-900 price tag on one of these laptops. If your student is into design and graphics and overall great appearance, buy a Mac. Remember to apply the desktop/laptop warning above as these computers start $900 and go up quickly! If you are into gaming and lots of modification options, try Dell and use the same warning again and the price range fluxuates as you modify.
BIG NOTE: Almost every university has an agreement with Dell and Apple and sometimes the others companies. Just click on the student area of the websites and you will be asked to select your school and you should recieve a very good discount on almost all products!
#2. The specs! All computers, excluding Mac's, have a standard that should be followed. Desktops should have at least:
-2-3 GB of RAM
-2.0 Ghz Dual Core Processor
-200 GB Hard Drive
-128 bit video card
-if possible, Windows XP.
(This addition will be taken differently but XP has a stronger following and is supported completely by most universities whereas Vista is still in a building block stage.) If you have to pick Vista, choose Home Premium.
For laptops, the same specs would be nice but the price will increase with this kind of setup so at least:
-2 GB of RAM
-150 GB Hard drive
-same processor
-same video card
-same Windows system.
And Mac's require the same thing but the RAM is a little smaller because of faster processors.
That's the small amount of information. Keep in mind that this is coming from a university IT guy and I would rather have students with computers that can adapt over four years rather than fail after four months!
I have one more quick thing. If you like my blog, you will definately like this new blog I've found about tech, programming and books. Have a look at Mega Voltage! I can only hope this blog develops like is has started: wonderfully!
Enjoy and have a great day!
Woohoo and Boo at the same time! Great for the fact that it's time to get back to some mentally stimulating work and boo for the fact that this is the last year for me and the boring classes that seem to consume a lot of time are right around the corner.
For those who are going to be sending kids to college or private schools or who are just looking because their children are begging for a computer of their own; I have some suggestions.
Warning!: First of all, figure out how responsible your child is. If they are careful with their possessions and seem to be on the go all the time; buy a laptop. If they don't fit those two qualities, stick with a desktop because you'll thank yourself a few months down the road.
The only reason for that warning is the fact that laptops can be dropped, stolen, misplaced and spilled on and if any of those happen, life for that computer will cease to exist. A desktop is a bit harder to move, pretty hard to be stolen or misplaced and if a keyboard is spilled on, it can be replaced for a very reasonable price. Warranty plans only cover so much unless you spend extra at companies like Dell for a CompleteCare program.
#1. After you've decided on what kind of computer, pick a brand and budget that works for you. Good laptops for a decent price come from companies like HP, Gateway and Toshiba. The warranties are decent, the computers are good for everyday use and it's hard to beat the $500-900 price tag on one of these laptops. If your student is into design and graphics and overall great appearance, buy a Mac. Remember to apply the desktop/laptop warning above as these computers start $900 and go up quickly! If you are into gaming and lots of modification options, try Dell and use the same warning again and the price range fluxuates as you modify.
BIG NOTE: Almost every university has an agreement with Dell and Apple and sometimes the others companies. Just click on the student area of the websites and you will be asked to select your school and you should recieve a very good discount on almost all products!
#2. The specs! All computers, excluding Mac's, have a standard that should be followed. Desktops should have at least:
-2-3 GB of RAM
-2.0 Ghz Dual Core Processor
-200 GB Hard Drive
-128 bit video card
-if possible, Windows XP.
(This addition will be taken differently but XP has a stronger following and is supported completely by most universities whereas Vista is still in a building block stage.) If you have to pick Vista, choose Home Premium.
For laptops, the same specs would be nice but the price will increase with this kind of setup so at least:
-2 GB of RAM
-150 GB Hard drive
-same processor
-same video card
-same Windows system.
And Mac's require the same thing but the RAM is a little smaller because of faster processors.
That's the small amount of information. Keep in mind that this is coming from a university IT guy and I would rather have students with computers that can adapt over four years rather than fail after four months!
I have one more quick thing. If you like my blog, you will definately like this new blog I've found about tech, programming and books. Have a look at Mega Voltage! I can only hope this blog develops like is has started: wonderfully!
Enjoy and have a great day!
Blogged with Flock
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)